Europe’s biggest VCs are going to war over adopting China’s 996 ‘always on’ culture: ‘Don’t listen to a jumped-up finance bro in a hoodie’

BNP Paribas Exane just slashed its price target for Samsara’s stock, signaling worries over the company’s sales performance. Analysts are clearly less optimistic about the tech firm’s near-term growth, though they haven’t outright called it a disaster—just a bumpy road ahead.

Editor’s Note: If you’re invested in Samsara or watching the IoT/cloud sector, this is a red flag. Price target cuts often hint at softer demand or execution struggles, which could ripple through the market. It’s not a full-blown alarm, but it’s worth keeping an eye on.

Annington Funding, a UK-based property finance company, is holding meetings with its noteholders to discuss a potential change in trustees. This move suggests some behind-the-scenes restructuring, likely tied to managing its debt or property portfolio. While the details are still under wraps, it signals active financial maneuvering.

Editor’s Note: Trustee changes in finance deals aren’t uncommon, but they often hint at shifts in strategy or obligations. For investors and industry watchers, this could mean refinancing, portfolio adjustments, or just routine upkeep—but it’s worth keeping an eye on, especially in today’s tricky real estate market.

Oil-Dri, the company behind cat litter and industrial absorbents, just posted solid third-quarter earnings for 2025. Profits are up, and they’re even sweetening the deal for shareholders with a dividend bump. Basically, business is good—and investors are getting a little extra for sticking around.

Editor’s Note: When a company like Oil-Dri reports stronger earnings and raises dividends, it’s a sign they’re managing costs and demand well—even in tricky markets. For everyday folks, it might not mean much, but for investors or anyone watching industrial and consumer goods sectors, it’s a reassuring nod that some steady players are still delivering. Plus, who doesn’t love a company that rewards its shareholders?

BNP Paribas, a major global bank, just bumped up its price target for Oracle’s stock to $190, betting big on the company’s potential in the AI space. Basically, they think Oracle’s tech—especially its cloud and AI offerings—could drive stronger growth than previously expected.

Editor’s Note: When a heavyweight like BNP Paribas raises its price target, it signals confidence in Oracle’s ability to compete in the AI race. For investors, it’s a nod that Oracle might be more than just a legacy software player—it could be a dark horse in the AI boom. For the rest of us, it’s another sign of how deeply AI is reshaping even the most established tech giants.

BlackRock CEO Larry Fink says today’s leaders have to watch their words more carefully than ever—thanks to the double-edged sword of social media and rising populism. He points out that the intense public scrutiny leaders face now is unlike anything seen in the past 30 years, making every statement a potential landmine.

Editor’s Note: Fink’s comments highlight how the digital age has turned leadership into a high-wire act—one slip can go viral, fueling outrage or backlash. It’s a reminder that even powerful figures now navigate a world where public perception shifts at the speed of a tweet, reshaping how decisions (and apologies) get made.