Treasuries Fall, Oil Surges Ahead of CPI | The Close 10/23/2025

General Motors has made the tough decision to cut hundreds of jobs, which comes shortly after they raised their profit outlook for the year, causing their shares to rise. Meanwhile, Ford is showing signs of recovery after a significant fire affected a key supplier for their popular F-150 pickup, leading to a notable increase in their stock, the highest in over three years. This news highlights the contrasting fortunes of these two major automakers and reflects the ongoing challenges and opportunities in the automotive industry.

Morgan Stanley has highlighted that Google's recent deal with Anthropic is a significant boost for Google Cloud. This partnership is expected to enhance Google's capabilities in artificial intelligence and cloud services, making it more competitive in the tech industry. As businesses increasingly rely on cloud solutions, this collaboration could lead to improved offerings and attract more clients to Google Cloud, reinforcing its position in the market.

Morgan Stanley has projected that natural gas prices could reach $5 per million British thermal units by 2026. This forecast is significant as it reflects the anticipated recovery in demand and potential supply constraints in the energy market. Investors and industry stakeholders should pay attention to these trends, as they could influence energy investments and pricing strategies in the coming years.

Ford's CEO expressed gratitude towards President Trump for recent tariff policies, stating that the company feels less disadvantaged in the current market. Despite beating expectations in the third quarter, Ford has adjusted its outlook for 2025 due to challenges like tariffs and a supplier fire. This shift highlights the ongoing impact of trade policies on major corporations and their strategic planning.

Morgan Stanley's Chief Investment Officer, Lisa Shalett, has raised concerns about the current state of debt financing in the tech sector, suggesting that the bull market is losing momentum. She emphasizes that the landscape for tech stocks has become increasingly complicated, indicating potential challenges ahead for investors. This matters because it reflects broader economic trends that could impact investment strategies and market stability.

In premarket trading, shares of Intel, Ford, and Target have shown positive momentum, indicating investor confidence in these companies. This uptick is significant as it reflects broader market trends and consumer sentiment, which can influence future performance. Meanwhile, Deckers has experienced a slump, raising concerns about its market position. Understanding these movements is crucial for investors looking to navigate the stock market effectively.

Ford's shares have seen a rise following a better-than-expected earnings report, showcasing the company's resilience in a challenging market. However, the automaker has also flagged potential impacts from a recent fire at a supply site, which could affect production. This news is significant as it highlights Ford's ability to navigate difficulties while still delivering strong financial results, reflecting investor confidence in the brand's future.

Morgan Stanley has upgraded the stock rating of Tractor Supply, highlighting that the company's recent investments are beginning to yield positive results. This upgrade is significant as it reflects confidence in Tractor Supply's growth potential and operational efficiency, which could attract more investors and boost the company's market position.

In September, the Consumer Price Index saw a 3 percent increase compared to the previous year, according to a report that was delayed due to the government shutdown. This rise in inflation is significant as it comes at a time when the Federal Reserve is considering cutting interest rates again. Understanding these economic indicators is crucial for consumers and investors alike, as they can impact spending, saving, and overall economic growth.

The Federal Reserve has announced changes to the stress tests for major US banks, aiming to make the process more transparent. This is significant as it could enhance the stability of the banking sector and boost confidence among investors and consumers alike. By easing the burden of these tests, the Fed is fostering a more resilient financial environment, which is crucial for economic growth.

The recent NBA gambling scandal has led to a significant legal challenge for the league, with the FBI announcing numerous arrests across 11 states linked to rigged poker games involving NBA figures like coach Chauncey Billups and player Terry Rozier. This situation raises serious concerns about the integrity of the sport and could have far-reaching implications for the NBA's reputation and operations. Legal expert Ellen Zavian discussed the ramifications on Bloomberg Markets, highlighting the potential fallout from these allegations.

Porsche is facing significant challenges as it reports a loss attributed to a slow rollout of electric vehicles and weak demand for its premium cars, particularly in China. Additionally, tariffs imposed by U.S. President Trump have further complicated the situation. This matters because it highlights the difficulties traditional automakers face in adapting to the rapidly changing automotive landscape, especially with the growing emphasis on electric vehicles.

The Social Security Administration has announced a 2.8% cost-of-living increase for beneficiaries, which is great news for millions of Americans relying on these benefits. This increase is designed to help offset inflation and rising living costs, ensuring that those who depend on Social Security can maintain their purchasing power. It's a significant step towards supporting the financial well-being of retirees and disabled individuals, making a real difference in their daily lives.

Nissan is exploring the possibility of importing US-made SUVs to Japan, a move aimed at increasing the utilization of its domestic plants. This strategy not only reflects Nissan's adaptability in a competitive market but also highlights the growing demand for SUVs in Japan. By leveraging production capabilities from the US, Nissan can better meet consumer preferences while optimizing its operations, which is crucial for the company's growth and sustainability.