Apple’s ‘best year yet’ sparks new challenge with top rival

U.S. consumer confidence has taken a sharp turn as the holiday season approaches, with expectations of increased spending on gifts during the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. After a slow start to the year, the U.S. GDP has shown recovery, posting nearly 4% growth in two consecutive quarters following a contraction earlier in the year.

In 2025, a popular mall and strip mall chain quietly closed 443 locations, reflecting significant challenges in the retail sector. This decision comes amidst a broader trend of store closures across various industries, indicating a shift in consumer behavior and market dynamics.

The stock market experienced a surprising uptick during a holiday week, resulting in weekly gains across major indices, with the S&P 500 closing just 1% shy of its 52-week high. Eli Lilly maintained a market capitalization of $1 trillion, reflecting strong investor confidence.

T-Mobile has announced a decision that will make it more difficult for customers to contact customer service, leading to significant dissatisfaction among its user base. This change has sparked anger among customers who rely on accessible support for their telecommunications needs.

Palantir Technologies is making strides in its artificial intelligence (AI) platform, aiming to demonstrate that it is a viable solution for corporations and governments, not just a showcase. Recent quarterly results indicate a surge in interest and demand for its offerings, suggesting that the company is gaining traction in the competitive AI market.

The search for a successor to Tim Cook as CEO of Apple has begun, with various candidates being considered for the role. This transition comes as Cook's tenure has been marked by significant developments in the tech industry and Apple's strategic direction.

Intel's stock surged to its highest level in a month, marking a five-day streak of gains, as analysts raised concerns about a potential partnership with Apple. This uptick reflects investor optimism amidst fluctuating market conditions.

An iconic sporting goods and sneaker retailer has announced the closure of several stores, reflecting a significant shift in the retail landscape where traditional sales models are increasingly challenged. This decision comes amid a broader trend of retail closures across various sectors, indicating a struggle to adapt to changing consumer behaviors and market conditions.