New Deals Show AI Compute Spend Keeps Growing

Apple is gearing up for a remarkable holiday season as it approaches its 50th anniversary, with projections indicating a nearly $140 billion quarter. This anticipated success highlights the company's strong market position and innovative products, making it an exciting time for both the brand and its customers.

As Bank of America gears up for its first Investor Day in 15 years, Mike Mayo from Wells Fargo Securities emphasizes the need for a clear growth strategy and smarter risk management. He believes that the bank should demonstrate how it plans to achieve returns of 16-18%, which is crucial for attracting investor confidence. This event is significant as it could set the tone for BofA's future performance and strategic direction.

Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook expressed her gratitude for the support she has received during ongoing court proceedings, highlighting the importance of backing in challenging times. Her remarks at a Brookings Institution event in Washington, DC, underscore the significance of stability and confidence in the Federal Reserve's leadership, especially amid political disputes.

Xiaomi's shift from smartphones to electric vehicles has raised serious concerns about worker welfare, highlighted by the tragic allegation from a worker's wife that the demanding schedule contributed to his death last year. This situation sheds light on the broader issue of long working hours in the Chinese tech industry, prompting discussions about the human cost of rapid corporate pivots. It's a reminder that while innovation is crucial, the well-being of employees should never be overlooked.

Sadiq Khan, the mayor of London, recently shared his thoughts on the New York City mayoral race during the COP30 summit in Brazil. He emphasized the significance of being a mayor, stating there is 'no greater job than to be the mayor of your city.' Khan expressed optimism about Mamdani, who could become the first Muslim mayor of NYC, suggesting that he would engage in meaningful discussions about his faith if elected. This highlights the growing representation of diverse leaders in major cities, which is crucial for fostering inclusivity and understanding.

Amazon's cloud division has made a significant move by signing a $38 billion deal to provide OpenAI with essential computing power, including access to a vast number of Nvidia graphics processing units. This partnership is crucial as it will enhance ChatGPT's ability to generate responses and develop future models, showcasing the growing collaboration between tech giants to push the boundaries of artificial intelligence.

In the latest episode of Bloomberg ETF IQ, industry experts Meb Faber and Matt Hougan discuss the evolving landscape of exchange-traded funds (ETFs), highlighting the opportunities and risks associated with both US and foreign stocks. This conversation is crucial for investors looking to navigate the complexities of the global ETF market, especially as new proposals like Roundhill's ETF come into play. Understanding these dynamics can help investors make informed decisions in a rapidly changing financial environment.

Visa's recent Holiday Spending Outlook reveals a generational divide in holiday budgeting. While Baby Boomers are ready to spend more this season, younger generations like Gen Z, Millennials, and Gen X are opting for tighter budgets. This insight is crucial as it highlights changing consumer behaviors and spending patterns, which can impact retailers and the economy.

Kimberly-Clark's recent acquisition of Tylenol signals a strong belief in the brand's resilience amid market challenges. This strategic move not only enhances Kimberly-Clark's product portfolio but also positions it to better meet consumer needs during uncertain times. The acquisition reflects confidence in Tylenol's enduring popularity and effectiveness, which could lead to increased market share and profitability for Kimberly-Clark.

The TSX has experienced a slight decline following its longest winning streak since 2021, which raises concerns among investors about potential market volatility. This downturn, albeit marginal, highlights the challenges faced by the index as it navigates economic uncertainties. Understanding these fluctuations is crucial for investors looking to make informed decisions in a fluctuating market.

Rush Enterprises A's stock has hit a 52-week low at 47.05 USD, raising concerns among investors. This decline reflects broader market trends and could indicate challenges for the company moving forward. Understanding the reasons behind this drop is crucial for stakeholders as it may affect future investments and the company's overall performance.

Cybercriminals are exploiting the tough job market by targeting job seekers, with a recent report from DNSFilter revealing over 8,700 malicious domains linked to job opportunities. This surge in scams is particularly concerning as it preys on vulnerable individuals looking for work, highlighting the need for increased awareness and caution among job hunters. As the job market struggles, these tactics not only threaten personal security but also add to the overall anxiety of finding employment.

A recent watchdog report reveals that the US Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's data security measures have become ineffective following regulatory rollbacks initiated during the Trump administration. This is concerning as it raises questions about the protection of sensitive consumer information and the agency's ability to safeguard against data breaches. The findings highlight the need for stronger oversight and renewed focus on data security to ensure consumer trust and safety.

Moody's has affirmed Cinemark's B1 rating, which is a significant boost for the cinema chain as it reflects confidence in its financial stability and growth potential. This positive outlook is crucial for attracting investors and enhancing the company's market position, especially as the entertainment industry continues to recover post-pandemic.