Powell Says Calling the Fed Political Is a `Cheap Shot'

Todd Kahn, the CEO of Coach, recently shared insights on how the brand is resonating with Gen Z consumers, who are increasingly spending on fashion. He emphasized a strategy focused on fewer ideas but richer storytelling, particularly with their popular charms and sneakers. By keeping their bags priced between $200 and $500, Coach aims to attract this younger demographic while enhancing brand loyalty. This approach not only reflects changing consumer preferences but also highlights the importance of meaningful narratives in today's fashion industry.

Tim Draper, founder of Draper Associates, recently described artificial intelligence as a 'sea-change' that will transform our jobs and boost productivity. Speaking on Bloomberg The Close, he also shared his thoughts on Elon Musk and the cryptocurrency market, highlighting the significant impact AI could have on various industries. This perspective is crucial as it underscores the potential of AI to reshape the workforce and drive innovation.

Major U.S. stock indexes have taken a hit, breaking their recent winning streak, largely due to a decline in tech stocks. This downturn comes as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell hinted at the possibility of further rate cuts, which could impact market dynamics. Understanding these shifts is crucial for investors as they navigate the changing landscape of the stock market.

Tech shares experienced a decline as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell refrained from providing clear signals regarding interest rate changes. This uncertainty in monetary policy can impact investor confidence and market stability, making it a significant event for those tracking economic trends.

Tether, a leading cryptocurrency firm, is reportedly aiming for a staggering $500 billion valuation in its upcoming fundraising round, according to Bloomberg News. This ambitious target highlights the growing confidence in the crypto market and Tether's pivotal role within it. If successful, this raise could significantly bolster Tether's position and influence in the financial landscape, attracting more investors and potentially reshaping the future of digital currencies.

Traders are adjusting their expectations regarding interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, reflecting the uncertainty created by mixed signals from central bank officials. This shift is significant as it highlights the challenges in predicting monetary policy, which can impact financial markets and economic stability.

In the latest episode of Bloomberg Businessweek Daily, hosts Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec delve into Fed Chair Jerome Powell's insights on the challenges facing the central bank, emphasizing that there is no 'risk-free' path for monetary policy. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the complexities of economic decision-making in uncertain times. Additionally, the episode features Bloomberg's Michael McKee and Senior White House Correspondent Josh Wingrove, who analyze President Trump's confrontational speech at the United Nations, shedding light on its implications for international relations.

South Africa's Trade Minister, Parks Tau, recently discussed the ongoing trade negotiations with the United States in an interview with Bloomberg. This conversation comes in the wake of President Donald Trump's decision to impose a 30% tariff on South African exports, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for both nations. Understanding these developments is crucial as they could significantly impact economic relations and trade dynamics between South Africa and the US.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell recently addressed the challenges facing the Fed following last week's rate cut, emphasizing that there are no risk-free options for monetary policy. He highlighted the conflicting pressures of rising inflation risks and potential job losses, indicating a complex economic landscape ahead. This matters because it signals to markets and policymakers that the Fed is navigating a delicate balance, which could influence future economic decisions and stability.

Auterion, a defense tech startup, has successfully raised $130 million in a Series B funding round, signaling strong investor confidence in its innovative drone software. This funding will enable Auterion to expand its technology for drone warfare, which is increasingly relevant in modern defense strategies. CEO Lorenz Meier discussed the implications of this funding on Bloomberg Tech, highlighting the potential for enhanced capabilities in military operations. This development is significant as it reflects the growing importance of advanced technology in defense and security.

Michelle Giuda, CEO of the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue, believes that the recent deal allowing US buyers to recreate TikTok's algorithm is a smart defensive strategy. She emphasizes the importance of not only protecting US interests but also taking proactive measures to promote American technology globally. This perspective highlights the ongoing discussions about tech diplomacy and the need for the US to maintain its competitive edge in the digital landscape.

Snowflake, a leading cloud-based data platform, has teamed up with other AI pioneers to launch a new initiative aimed at establishing an industry standard for AI interoperability called Open Semantic Interchange. This initiative is significant as it seeks to enhance collaboration and integration across various AI systems, making it easier for businesses to leverage AI technologies effectively. Snowflake's CEO, Sridhar Ramaswamy, shared insights about this exciting development during an interview on Bloomberg Tech.

Kenvue, the maker of Tylenol, has seen a rebound in its shares, indicating a positive shift in investor confidence. This comes at a time when former President Trump is facing significant pushback regarding his recent claims. The developments in Kenvue's stock performance are noteworthy as they reflect broader market trends and consumer sentiment, while Trump's situation highlights ongoing political tensions.

Sempra Infrastructure Partners has been downgraded to a 'BBB' rating following the recent decision regarding the Port Arthur LNG2 project. This downgrade reflects concerns about the project's viability and potential impacts on the company's financial stability. Investors and stakeholders should pay close attention to how this rating change might affect Sempra's future operations and market position.

The FDA's recent approval of a new drug for autism has sparked significant discussion about the review process for medications targeting this condition. This approval is noteworthy as it may change how future treatments are evaluated, potentially leading to quicker access for patients. The implications of this decision could reshape the landscape of autism treatment and influence how similar drugs are assessed in the future.

Todd Kahn, the CEO of Coach, recently shared insights on how the brand is resonating with Gen Z consumers, who are increasingly spending on fashion. He emphasized a strategy focused on fewer ideas but richer storytelling, particularly with their popular charms and sneakers. By keeping their bags priced between $200 and $500, Coach aims to attract this younger demographic while enhancing brand loyalty. This approach not only reflects changing consumer preferences but also highlights the importance of meaningful narratives in today's fashion industry.

Micron Technology has reported impressive earnings for Q4 2025, surpassing both EPS and revenue forecasts. This positive performance highlights the company's strong position in the semiconductor industry and reflects its ability to adapt to market demands. Investors and analysts are optimistic about Micron's future growth prospects, making this news significant for stakeholders and the tech sector as a whole.

Jonathan Clements, a respected financial columnist for the Wall Street Journal, passed away this weekend, leaving behind a legacy of insightful financial advice. His ideas have guided countless individuals in managing their finances wisely, emphasizing the importance of saving, investing, and planning for the future. Clements' work not only educated readers but also inspired them to take control of their financial destinies, making his contributions to personal finance invaluable.