iHub News
2日前
Meta shares jump on plans to commercialise excess AI computing capacityJuly 1, 2026 9:37 AM
IH Market News Report says Meta is preparing a move into cloud infrastructure Shares of Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) climbed as much as 8% on Wednesday after a Bloomberg report said the company is preparing to enter the cloud infrastructure market by offering customers access to surplus artificial intelligence computing resources. If launched, the initiative would place Meta in direct competition with leading cloud providers including Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform (GCP), while reshaping the competitive landscape for AI infrastructure. Meta Compute to spearhead cloud ambitions According to people familiar with the matter, the project is being developed through an internal division known as Meta Compute. The report said Meta is evaluating two complementary ways to generate revenue from the billions of dollars it has invested in AI infrastructure. Two-pronged strategy targets developers and enterprise customers One element of the strategy involves a Model-as-a-Service offering, allowing customers to access AI models hosted on Meta’s infrastructure, including the company’s Muse Spark models. Under this model, Meta would manage the underlying data centres and semiconductor hardware while charging developers for access, in a similar approach to Amazon Web Services’ Bedrock platform. The second initiative would offer customers direct access to bare-metal computing resources, positioning Meta as a competitor to emerging cloud infrastructure specialists such as CoreWeave. Cloud expansion reshapes AI competition The report boosted investor sentiment toward Meta, sending its shares sharply higher in early trading. However, the news weighed on other cloud infrastructure providers and neocloud companies as investors assessed the impact of a major new entrant into the AI computing market. Meta stock priceThe post Meta shares jump on plans to commercialise excess AI computing capacity appeared first on US Editors. Original: Meta shares jump on plans to commercialise excess AI computing capacity
iHub News
3日前
Magnificent Seven shed $2.3 trillion in June as AI spending comes under closer scrutiny (MSFT)June 30, 2026 9:00 AM
IH Market News Investor sentiment shifts toward infrastructure costs The so-called “Magnificent Seven” technology stocks have collectively lost around $2.3 trillion in market value during June as investors reassessed the scale of artificial intelligence infrastructure spending by the sector’s largest companies. The group comprises Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT), Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG), Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL), Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META), Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA) and Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN). Amazon, Microsoft, Alphabet and Meta are investing hundreds of billions of dollars in semiconductors and data centre capacity to expand their AI capabilities, with part of that spending financed through debt. During June, Microsoft shares fell 20%, Nvidia declined about 13%, while Apple and Amazon each dropped roughly 8%. Markets await proof that AI investment will deliver returns Investors have become increasingly cautious as technology giants commit record sums to AI infrastructure, with many now looking to the upcoming second-quarter earnings season for evidence that those investments are translating into stronger financial performance. The reporting season, which begins in July, is expected to provide greater insight into whether the industry’s heavy capital expenditure is generating meaningful returns. Chipmakers continue to outperform While the largest technology companies have come under pressure, semiconductor stocks have continued to outperform. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index advanced around 6% during June and has climbed more than 90% this year, compared with a 3.4% decline for the Magnificent Seven over the same period. Demand from major technology companies has continued to benefit semiconductor manufacturers, including Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Micron Technology Inc. and ASML Holding NV, with strong chip orders creating supply shortages throughout the industry. The resulting shortage of memory components has also driven prices higher, adding to supply chain constraints across the semiconductor market. Microsoft stock price Nvidia stock price Alphabet stock price Apple stock price Meta stock price Tesla stock price Amazon stock priceThe post Magnificent Seven shed $2.3 trillion in June as AI spending comes under closer scrutiny (MSFT) appeared first on US Editors. Original: Magnificent Seven shed $2.3 trillion in June as AI spending comes under closer scrutiny (MSFT)
iHub News
1週前
Consider Raising Cash While Markets Remain ResilientJune 26, 2026 7:00 AM
IH Market News If the U.S.-Iran memorandum of understanding remains intact and the Strait of Hormuz reopens as planned, risk assets such as equities, industrial metals and gold may continue to benefit from positive momentum over the coming weeks. In that environment, investors may want to consider using market strength as an opportunity to gradually increase cash holdings and reduce overall portfolio risk. While this approach could result in some missed upside if markets continue to advance, it would also provide greater protection against a potential correction and leave investors better positioned to take advantage of future buying opportunities. Selling into strength can often make it easier to redeploy capital when valuations become more attractive. Liquidity Conditions Remain a Key Concern The broader challenge facing financial markets is that liquidity appears to be weakening at a time when inflation remains high enough to limit the ability of central banks to aggressively ease monetary policy. Several major central banks are either maintaining restrictive policies or continuing to tighten financial conditions. At the same time, signals from both gold and cryptocurrency markets have been pointing to a gradual deterioration in global liquidity trends. Another factor drawing liquidity away from financial assets is the growing wave of large-scale capital spending and public offerings. Capital Is Moving From Financial Assets to Real-World Investment Large IPOs and infrastructure spending programmes effectively redirect capital away from financial markets and toward physical investment. One example is the SpaceX (NASDAQ:SPCX) initial public offering, which transferred approximately $75 billion from investors to the company. Those funds are expected to be deployed into projects such as data centres, launch systems and other infrastructure. A similar dynamic is occurring across the technology sector as companies including Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL), Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META), Oracle (NYSE:ORCL) and Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) prioritise AI-related capital expenditures over share repurchases. As a result, money that might otherwise have supported financial asset prices is increasingly being directed toward real-economy investment. Markets May Already Reflect an Optimistic Middle East Outcome Another consideration is that investors may have largely priced in a favourable outcome regarding tensions in the Middle East. If that is the case, markets could be more vulnerable to negative surprises than positive ones, particularly if geopolitical developments fail to progress as expected. Long-Term Commodity Outlook Remains Positive While caution may be warranted in the near term, the outlook for industrial commodities over the next one to two years remains constructive. An often-overlooked aspect of the U.S.-Iran agreement is the potential creation of a privately funded $300 billion development programme aimed at rebuilding Iran and accelerating its integration into the global economy. If implemented, the initiative could generate substantial new demand for a wide range of industrial commodities. Although this part of the agreement has attracted criticism in some quarters, supporters argue that increased trade, investment and economic integration could help reduce the likelihood of future conflict by strengthening ties between Iran and the broader global economy. SpaceX stock price Microsoft stock price Alphabet stock price Meta stock price Oracle stock price Amazon stock price The post Consider Raising Cash While Markets Remain Resilient appeared first on US Editors. Original: Consider Raising Cash While Markets Remain Resilient
iHub News
1週前
Markets Look for Stability After Tech Sell-Off as AI Focus Remains Front and Centre: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street FuturesJune 24, 2026 6:11 AM
IH Market News U.S. equity futures moved modestly higher on Wednesday, with investors attempting to regain confidence after a sharp decline in technology and semiconductor stocks. Market attention is increasingly turning to upcoming corporate results and developments in the artificial intelligence sector for guidance on future sentiment. At the same time, falling oil prices, easing geopolitical tensions and major index reshuffles are helping shape investor expectations across global markets. Futures Recover Following Technology Weakness Wall Street futures pointed to a firmer open after a difficult session for growth stocks. By 08:22 GMT, futures linked to the S&P 500 had gained 0.2%, while Nasdaq futures advanced 0.5%. Dow Jones futures underperformed, slipping 0.16%. Investor sentiment received support from stronger-than-expected business activity data and continued declines in crude oil prices, which have retreated towards levels seen before the recent tensions between the United States and Iran. The market’s focus is now shifting to results from Micron Technology (NASDAQ:MU), one of the largest producers of memory semiconductors globally. Given its exposure to data centres and AI infrastructure, the company is widely viewed as a key indicator of demand across the artificial intelligence ecosystem. Investors will be watching closely to determine whether AI-related spending remains strong enough to support current sector valuations after recent volatility. Nvidia Hardware Prices Surge in China Demand for advanced artificial intelligence hardware remains robust despite ongoing export restrictions. According to the Financial Times, Nvidia’s (NASDAQ:NVDA) DGX B300 systems are reportedly changing hands on China’s black market for more than 8 million yuan ($1.1 million), compared with approximately 4 million yuan six months ago. The servers incorporate eight Blackwell AI processors and have become increasingly difficult to obtain through official channels following tighter U.S. export controls. The sharp increase in prices highlights both the continued appetite for high-performance AI computing in China and Nvidia’s dominant position within the global AI infrastructure market. For investors, the development underscores the strength of underlying demand while also illustrating the geopolitical challenges facing the semiconductor industry. Meta Faces Growing Regulatory Attention Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) is reportedly under pressure from the Trump administration to voluntarily submit its artificial intelligence models for government review, according to The New York Times. The report states that Meta is currently the only major U.S. AI developer not participating in a federal AI assessment programme. The company launched its latest advanced model, Muse Spark, earlier this year. The request reflects Washington’s increasing involvement in the oversight of advanced AI technologies. Recent regulatory action involving Anthropic demonstrated the government’s willingness to intervene when national security concerns arise. For the broader technology sector, the development highlights how regulation is becoming an increasingly important factor influencing product launches, expansion strategies and future growth opportunities. Honeywell Aerospace Set to Join Major Indexes Honeywell Aerospace is preparing to enter both the S&P 100 and S&P 500 following its planned separation from Honeywell International (NASDAQ:HON). Once the transaction is completed on 29 June, the company will replace Honeywell in the S&P 100 and take the position currently held by Conagra Brands (NYSE:CAG) in the S&P 500. The announcement boosted when-issued shares of Honeywell Aerospace by more than 9% in after-hours trading as investors anticipated demand from passive investment funds that track the indexes. Index inclusion often generates buying activity because benchmark-tracking funds are required to purchase newly added constituents. Alphabet Added to the Dow Jones Industrial Average Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG) will join the Dow Jones Industrial Average later this month, replacing Verizon (NYSE:VZ) in one of the world’s most closely followed equity benchmarks. The change is scheduled to take effect on 29 June and marks the first adjustment to the index since Nvidia and Sherwin-Williams were added in 2024. The inclusion reflects Alphabet’s growing influence within the U.S. economy, particularly as artificial intelligence continues to play a larger role in driving corporate investment and earnings growth. Although the Dow contains only 30 companies, membership often increases investor visibility and can generate additional demand from index-linked investment products. Nvidia stock price Meta stock price Micron Technology stock price Honeywell stock price Conagra Brands stock price Alphabet stock price Verizon Communications stock priceThe post Markets Look for Stability After Tech Sell-Off as AI Focus Remains Front and Centre: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street Futures appeared first on US Editors. Original: Markets Look for Stability After Tech Sell-Off as AI Focus Remains Front and Centre: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street Futures
iHub News
2週前
Meta Seeks Legal Shield in Child Safety Cases as KOSA Debate Continues (META)June 19, 2026 8:45 AM
IH Market News Company Pushes for Liability Protection in Proposed Online Safety Legislation Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) has reportedly urged U.S. lawmakers to include legal protections for technology companies facing child-harm claims linked to social media platforms such as Instagram, according to a source familiar with the discussions and draft legislative language reviewed by Reuters. The proposed provision is being discussed as part of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), legislation currently under consideration in the U.S. Senate. If incorporated into the bill and ultimately enacted, the measure could significantly affect thousands of ongoing lawsuits involving Meta and other online platforms over alleged harm to minors. Meta and Google’s (NASDAQ:GOOG) YouTube are already facing combined damages of $6 million after losing the first case to reach trial earlier this year. Draft Proposal Could Limit State-Level Claims The legislative language reviewed by Reuters would grant online platforms broad protection from lawsuits brought under state law regarding the online safety or privacy of individuals under the age of 18. The proposal would make companies “immune from suit or liability under state law with respect to all claims for loss caused by, arising out of, relating to, or resulting from the safety or privacy of individuals under the age of eighteen online or otherwise related to the provisions” of KOSA. The language also appears alongside provisions designed to pre-empt state-level legislation covering children’s online safety and privacy issues. While lawmakers have not indicated any intention to adopt the proposal, the effort highlights the legal safeguards Meta is seeking as Washington considers its most significant technology regulation package in decades. Meta Says Proposal Would Create National Standards Responding to questions about the lobbying effort, Meta spokesperson Stephanie Otway rejected suggestions that the provision would provide blanket protection from legal action. She said the measure “does not extinguish existing lawsuits, nor does it represent blanket immunity.” Otway added: “Instead, it establishes uniform national standards for online youth safety, ensuring these critical issues are governed by comprehensive federal legislation, not plaintiffs’ lawyers or patchwork state legislation.” Critics Warn of Broad Legal Immunity Opponents of the proposal argue that the language could have sweeping consequences for current and future legal claims. Julia Duncan of the American Association for Justice said the measure would likely eliminate many lawsuits that remain active when the law takes effect. She said: “The language is pretty clear-cut immunity against every parent, every school district, that is seeking to hold any AI or social media company accountable for harm” to children. Duncan added: “There is no other way to read this language.” Meta Reportedly Offers Support for KOSA According to the source cited by Reuters, Meta has proposed the liability provision as part of a broader compromise that would see the company drop its opposition to KOSA. The legislation, introduced by Republican Senator Marsha Blackburn and Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal, would require social media companies to take reasonable measures to reduce potential harms to minors, including compulsive platform use. The bill is currently part of wider negotiations involving the White House and lawmakers over a package of child online safety measures and proposed federal rules concerning artificial intelligence. A spokesperson for Blackburn said the senator had not reviewed the specific language referenced by Reuters and stated: “We have not seen that proposed language and would never consider it.” Focus on Platform Features Linked to Youth Engagement Under KOSA, technology companies would be required to exercise greater care when deploying features such as infinite scrolling, push notifications and appearance-altering filters. These features were central to a recent California court case in which a plaintiff successfully argued that Meta and YouTube knowingly implemented systems that were addictive and harmful to younger users. Both companies have said they intend to appeal the ruling. Bipartisan Support Keeps Bill Alive KOSA previously passed the Senate in 2024 with overwhelming bipartisan backing in a 91-3 vote but failed to advance through the House of Representatives. The legislation was reintroduced this year with support from both Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, reflecting continued bipartisan interest in expanding protections for children online. As discussions continue, the debate is likely to focus on balancing stronger safeguards for minors with the legal responsibilities and liabilities faced by major technology platforms. Meta stock price Alphabet stock priceThe post Meta Seeks Legal Shield in Child Safety Cases as KOSA Debate Continues (META) appeared first on US Editors. Original: Meta Seeks Legal Shield in Child Safety Cases as KOSA Debate Continues (META)
iHub News
4週前
Meta Pushes Back Developer Release of New AI Model Amid Ongoing Testing (META)June 4, 2026 6:07 AM
IH Market News Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) has reportedly postponed the release of its latest artificial intelligence model to external developers several times, according to a report from The Wall Street Journal, raising questions about the timing of the company’s next major AI rollout. The report said the delay has now extended to nearly two months after Meta’s head of artificial intelligence indicated that the new model would be made available “soon.” Sources familiar with the matter told the publication that the company currently has no confirmed launch date for the developer release. Meta is also building an application programming interface (API) designed to allow developers and businesses to integrate the company’s AI capabilities into their own products and services. According to the report, the social media and technology group is currently testing the API with selected partners ahead of a broader rollout. A Meta spokesperson told The Wall Street Journal that the company intends to release the API later this month, although no specific timeline was disclosed. The latest delay represents a shift from Meta’s original plans. According to the report, the company had initially intended to launch the API alongside its newest AI model, known as Muse Spark, when that model was unveiled in April. The postponement comes as competition within the artificial intelligence sector continues to intensify. Major technology companies including OpenAI, Google, Anthropic and Microsoft are racing to release increasingly advanced AI systems and developer tools, making product launch schedules an important factor in maintaining market momentum and developer engagement. While Meta has not publicly detailed the reasons behind the delay, extended testing periods often reflect efforts to improve performance, reliability, scalability and safety before making new AI systems broadly available. The company has made artificial intelligence a central component of its long-term strategy, investing heavily in large language models, AI infrastructure and developer platforms. A successful rollout of Muse Spark and its associated API could strengthen Meta’s position in the rapidly evolving AI ecosystem and expand adoption of its technology among businesses and software developers. More About Meta Platforms Meta Platforms is a global technology company focused on social media, digital advertising, artificial intelligence and virtual reality. The company operates major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger, serving billions of users worldwide. In recent years, Meta has significantly increased its investment in artificial intelligence, developing advanced AI models, tools and infrastructure designed to support both consumer-facing products and enterprise applications. The company views AI as a key driver of future growth and innovation across its family of platforms and emerging technology initiatives. Meta stock price Original: Meta Pushes Back Developer Release of New AI Model Amid Ongoing Testing (META)
iHub News
1月前
Meta Fails to Overturn EU Gatekeeper Status for Messenger as Court Delivers Mixed Ruling (META)June 3, 2026 6:28 AM
IH Market News Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) has lost its bid to challenge the European Union’s decision to classify its Messenger service as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act (DMA), after a ruling by the EU’s General Court in Luxembourg. The judgment reinforces regulatory obligations imposed on the messaging platform and marks another setback for Meta in its efforts to contest the EU’s stricter oversight of large technology companies. Court Backs Commission’s Assessment of Messenger The General Court upheld the European Commission’s conclusion that Messenger functions as a key gateway through which businesses can reach consumers. Under the Digital Markets Act, platforms designated as gatekeepers are subject to a range of obligations intended to curb the market power of dominant digital companies and promote competition across the European Union. Judges found that the Commission had correctly determined that Messenger independently met the criteria required for gatekeeper status. According to the ruling, the Commission made no error in concluding that the messaging platform qualifies as an important access point between businesses and users. Digital Markets Act Imposes Additional Compliance Requirements The gatekeeper designation means Messenger remains subject to the DMA’s regulatory framework, which requires major technology platforms to comply with rules covering interoperability, data usage, competition practices and user choice. The legislation forms a central part of the EU’s broader effort to regulate large digital ecosystems and limit practices viewed as anti-competitive. Meta has been among several major technology groups required to adapt products and business practices in response to the new regulations. Marketplace Wins Partial Victory While Meta was unsuccessful in its challenge regarding Messenger, the company secured a limited victory concerning its Marketplace platform. The court annulled the Commission’s earlier decision to classify Marketplace as a gatekeeper, finding that regulators had not provided sufficient justification for that designation. Judges concluded that the Commission’s reasoning did not adequately support its determination that Marketplace met the relevant legal requirements. Limited Practical Impact from Marketplace Decision Despite the ruling in Meta’s favour on Marketplace, the outcome is expected to have little practical significance. The European Commission removed Marketplace’s gatekeeper designation in 2025 after the platform’s user numbers fell below the thresholds required under the Digital Markets Act. As a result, the court’s decision does not alter the platform’s current regulatory status. More About Meta Platforms Meta Platforms is a global technology company that operates social media, messaging and digital communication services, including Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and Messenger. The company is investing heavily in artificial intelligence, virtual reality and digital infrastructure while navigating increasing regulatory scrutiny in major markets, including the European Union and the United States. Meta stock price Original: Meta Fails to Overturn EU Gatekeeper Status for Messenger as Court Delivers Mixed Ruling (META)
US Market News
1月前
Meta Announces Quarterly Cash DividendMay 28, 2026 5:56 PM
PR Newswire (US) MENLO PARK, Calif., May 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Meta Platforms, Inc. (Nasdaq: META) board of directors today declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.525 per share of the company's outstanding Class A common stock and Class B common stock, payable on June 25, 2026 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on June 15, 2026. About MetaMeta is building the future of human connection, powered by artificial intelligence and immersive technologies. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward experiences that foster deeper connections and unlock new possibilities.ContactsInvestors:
Kenneth Dorell
investor@meta.com / investor.atmeta.comPress:
Matthew Tye
press@meta.com / meta.com/news View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/meta-announces-quarterly-cash-dividend-302785064.htmlSOURCE Meta Original: Meta Announces Quarterly Cash Dividend
iHub News
1月前
SpaceX IPO targets retail investors as hype builds around record-breaking debutMay 26, 2026 10:01 AM
IH Market News After several sluggish years for the IPO market, SpaceX is preparing to make its public market debut in what could become the largest stock offering in history. The company plans to begin trading on the Nasdaq on June 12 under the ticker symbol SPCX following the filing of its S-1 registration statement. The proposed offering could value SpaceX at as much as $2 trillion, instantly making it one of the most valuable publicly traded companies in the world and reigniting excitement across Wall Street after a prolonged drought in major IPO activity. Elon Musk opens the door to retail investors Unlike many blockbuster IPOs that heavily favor institutional investors and large funds, SpaceX appears to be actively encouraging participation from retail traders. In its S-1 filing, the company stated that, “Certain of the shares of Class A common stock offered hereby will, at our request, be offered to retail investors.” According to the filing, shares are expected to be accessible through brokerage platforms including Charles Schwab (SCHW), Fidelity Investments, Robinhood (HOOD), SoFi Technologies (SOFI) and Morgan Stanley’s E*TRADE platform. The move could generate enormous interest among individual investors eager to gain exposure to one of the world’s most sought-after private technology companies. Strong growth accompanied by heavy losses SpaceX reported $18.7 billion in revenue last year, according to its filing, as the company continued expanding its Starlink satellite internet business and maintaining dominance in commercial space launches. However, the filing also showed that SpaceX recorded a net loss of $4.9 billion as spending accelerated across artificial intelligence infrastructure, Starship rocket development and satellite deployment programs. Despite those losses, market enthusiasm surrounding Elon Musk and SpaceX is expected to remain strong when trading begins. Nasdaq rule changes could fuel immediate buying pressure The article argues that the IPO structure itself may intensify speculative momentum. Nasdaq recently updated its listing rules to allow mega-cap IPOs to enter major market indexes more rapidly than in the past. According to Reuters, the exchange’s new “fast entry” framework was designed specifically with enormous offerings such as SpaceX, OpenAI and Anthropic in mind. If SpaceX debuts near a $2 trillion valuation, index funds could be required to purchase billions of dollars worth of shares shortly after listing, potentially driving sharp early gains. History shows IPO hype can fade quickly While the initial enthusiasm may support the stock in the short term, the article points to several high-profile IPOs that later suffered steep declines after early excitement faded. Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) reportedly fell 47% during its first six months as a public company, while Alibaba Group (NYSE:BABA) declined 26% following its debut. Coinbase (NASDAQ:COIN) lost 75% within a year of listing, and Rivian (NASDAQ:RIVN) dropped roughly 80% from its peak. The article also cites Nasdaq data indicating that nearly 64% of IPOs underperform the broader market by more than 10 percentage points during their first three years of trading. Long-term potential may not justify immediate buying The article emphasizes that these concerns do not necessarily reflect weakness in SpaceX’s underlying business. Instead, the warning centers on valuation risk, speculative enthusiasm and the possibility that investors may overpay amid peak excitement. The piece concludes that SpaceX could eventually become one of the world’s most important public companies because of its strength in launch services, satellite internet and defense infrastructure. However, it argues that the current IPO setup — driven by retail participation, forced index buying, meme-stock enthusiasm and a historically rich valuation — may create excessive short-term hype. According to the article, long-term investors may ultimately find opportunities to own SpaceX shares at more attractive prices after the initial frenzy surrounding the June 12 listing subsides. Meta stock price Alibaba Group Holdings stock price Coinbase stock price Rivian Automotive stock price Original: SpaceX IPO targets retail investors as hype builds around record-breaking debut
iHub News
1月前
Meta proposes limited free WhatsApp access for rival AI chatbots in Europe (META)May 20, 2026 6:31 AM
IH Market News Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META) has proposed granting competing artificial intelligence chatbots, including those developed by OpenAI, limited free access to WhatsApp in Europe before introducing charges once usage thresholds are exceeded, according to two people familiar with the matter.The previously undisclosed proposal comes as Meta attempts to ease mounting pressure from European Union regulators, who have intensified scrutiny of large technology groups and their influence over digital markets. Meta seeks to address EU antitrust concerns Meta submitted the proposal to EU antitrust authorities last week after the European Commission indicated it was considering interim measures that could force the company to provide rivals with access to WhatsApp while an ongoing investigation continues.Neither Meta nor the Commission had publicly disclosed details of the proposal at the time.According to the sources, interested parties were given until May 18 to provide feedback to the Commission before regulators decide whether to accept Meta’s offer.Under the proposed structure, rival AI chatbot providers would initially receive free access to WhatsApp’s services but would begin paying fees after surpassing certain messaging limits. EU regulators push to preserve competition in AI The broader dispute highlights growing efforts by European regulators to maintain competition in emerging digital and AI markets by preventing dominant technology firms from consolidating excessive market power or restricting smaller competitors.The European Commission declined to comment further, reiterating that its priority is to keep the rapidly expanding AI assistant market open and competitive for innovators. The Commission added that Meta’s proposal should create room for continued discussions aimed at resolving regulatory concerns.Meta repeated earlier statements noting that it had already granted competing AI chatbot providers in Europe one month of free access to WhatsApp’s business Application Programming Interface, or API, while negotiations with regulators continue. APIs are software interfaces that allow different systems and applications to interact with one another. Smaller AI rivals criticise Meta’s proposal Several smaller AI companies said they remained dissatisfied with the proposed arrangement. The Interaction Company of California, developer of the Poke.com AI assistant, and French startup Agentik — both of which previously filed complaints with the European Commission — rejected Meta’s proposal.“Unfortunately, Meta’s current proposal is far from resolving any of the competition concerns identified in this case,” The Interaction Company of California said.“If Meta does not put forward a genuinely constructive proposal without delay, we urge the Commission to proceed with the interim measures.”Agentik founder Jeremy Andre argued that the proposal unfairly disadvantages competitors because the restrictions would not apply to Meta’s own AI products. Meta has noted, however, that its Meta AI chatbot does not rely on WhatsApp’s API. Meta revised WhatsApp AI policy earlier this year Meta introduced a policy in January allowing only its own Meta AI assistant to operate on WhatsApp before revising the approach in March to permit rival AI services to access the messaging platform for a fee.The change subsequently led to a second formal charge sheet from EU regulators, prompting Meta to suspend fees temporarily for one month while continuing negotiations with the European Commission.Meta stock price Original: Meta proposes limited free WhatsApp access for rival AI chatbots in Europe (META)
iHub News
2月前
Meta to Eliminate Around 8,000 Jobs as AI Investment Push Intensifies (META)May 18, 2026 10:10 AM
IH Market News Workforce Reductions Set to Begin This Week Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) is reportedly preparing to cut approximately 8,000 jobs this week, equal to roughly 10% of its workforce, according to a CNBC report published Monday.The company has also reportedly scrapped plans to hire for about 6,000 vacant positions.The layoffs are expected to begin on Wednesday. Company Shifts Focus Toward Efficiency and AI Spending The latest round of job reductions marks a different tone from Meta’s earlier layoffs in late 2022 and early 2023, when CEO Mark Zuckerberg admitted he “got this wrong” after eliminating around 21,000 roles during what he described as Meta’s “year of efficiency.”According to the report, Meta has now informed employees that the latest workforce reductions are “all part of our continued effort to run the company more efficiently and to allow us to offset the other investments we’re making.”The cuts come as the company continues ramping up spending on artificial intelligence infrastructure and related initiatives.Meta stock price Original: Meta to Eliminate Around 8,000 Jobs as AI Investment Push Intensifies (META)
iHub News
2月前
Tech Stocks Set to Extend Rally as Apple Crushes Estimates: Dow Jones, S&P and Nasdaq FuturesMay 1, 2026 9:09 AM
IH Market News
Dow Jones, S&P 500 and Nasdaq futures are currently pointing to a higher open on Friday, with stocks likely to see further upside following the rally seen over the course of the previous session.Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) may help lead an extended advance on Wall Street, as the tech giant is surging by 3.6 percent in pre-market trading.The jump by Apple comes after the company reported fiscal better than expected fiscal second quarter results and forecast revenues for the current quarter above analyst estimates.Early buying interest may also be generated by an extended pullback by the price of crude oil, with U.S. crude oil futures tumbling by more than 2 percent.U.S. crude oil futures showed a significant downturn on Thursday, slumping by 1.7 percent after reaching their highest levels in four years.The continued decrease by crude oil prices comes after an Axios reporter said Iran has delivered its response to the latest U.S. amendments on the agreement to end the war through Pakistani mediators.After seeing considerable volatility early in the session, stocks moved sharply higher over the course of the trading day on Thursday. The major averages all showed strong moves to the upside, with the Nasdaq and the S&P 500 reaching new record closing highs.The major averages gave back some ground going into the end of the day but still posted strong gains. The Dow surged 790.33 points or 1.6 percent to 49,652.14, the S&P 500 jumped 73.06 points or 1 percent to 7,209.01 and the Nasdaq advanced 219.08 points or 0.9 percent to 24,892.31.The Dow turned in a strong performance throughout the day amid a sharp increase by shares of Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT), with the construction equipment spiking by 9.9 percent.Shares of Caterpillar soared after the company reported better than expected first quarter results and raised its full-year revenue forecast.Chipmaker Qualcomm (NASDAQ:QCOM) also skyrocketed by 15.1 percent on the day after reporting second quarter earnings that exceeded analyst estimates.Shares of Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL) also surged by 10 percent after the Google parent better than expected first quarter revenues.On the other hand, Facebook parent Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) and software giant Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) moved sharply lower amid concerns about their plans to increase spending.Traders also kept an eye on the price of crude oil, which pulled back sharply after soaring to its highest levels in four years despite lingering concerns about the Middle East conflict.Networking stocks turned in some of the market’s best performances on the day, with the NYSE Arca Networking Index spiking by 3.8 percent to a new record closing high.Substantial strength was also visible among pharmaceutical stocks, as reflected by the 3.7 percent surge by the NYSE Arca Pharmaceutical Index.Eli Lilly (NYSE:LLY) helped lead the sector higher, soaring by 9.8 percent after reporting better than expected first quarter results and raising its full-year sale outlook.Computer hardware, gold, telecom and semiconductor stocks also saw significant strength, while software stocks bucked the uptrend amid the steep drop by Microsoft.
Original: Tech Stocks Set to Extend Rally as Apple Crushes Estimates: Dow Jones, S&P and Nasdaq Futures
iHub News
2月前
U.S. stocks set for higher open as tech earnings boost sentiment: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street FuturesApril 30, 2026 9:25 AM
IH Market News
U.S. stock futures are pointing to a stronger start on Thursday, suggesting markets could move higher after finishing the previous session with little overall direction.Early momentum appears driven by a positive market reaction to the latest earnings releases from major technology companies.Shares of Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL) are soaring 7.1% in premarket trading after the Google parent reported first-quarter revenue above expectations.E-commerce giant Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) is also climbing 3.7% ahead of the open after delivering quarterly results that topped analyst forecasts.Qualcomm (NASDAQ:QCOM) is seeing notable premarket gains as well, following better-than-expected fiscal second-quarter earnings.In contrast, shares of Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) are dropping 7.8% in premarket trading. While the company beat expectations for the quarter, its increased capital spending outlook weighed on investor sentiment.A decline in oil prices is also supporting early gains on Wall Street, with U.S. crude futures falling more than 1% despite ongoing concerns tied to the Middle East conflict.
Markets ended previous session mixed
After Tuesday’s pullback, Wednesday’s session saw stocks move without clear direction. Both the Nasdaq and the S&P 500 fluctuated around the unchanged line before closing mixed.The tech-heavy Nasdaq edged up 9.44 points, or less than 0.1%, to 24,673.24, while the S&P 500 slipped 2.85 points, also less than 0.1%, to 7,135.95.Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined more noticeably, falling 280.12 points, or 0.6%, to 48,861.81, pressured by sharp losses in Boeing (NYSE:BA), IBM (NYSE:IBM) and Travelers (NYSE:TRV).
Investors cautious ahead of key catalysts
The subdued performance reflected investor caution ahead of major earnings announcements from large-cap technology companies.Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOGL), Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) and Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) were among the firms reporting results after the close.Market participants were also focused on the latest policy decision from the Federal Reserve, which kept interest rates unchanged in a closely divided vote.The Fed maintained its target range for the federal funds rate at 3.50% to 3.75%, citing its dual mandate of maximum employment and stable inflation around 2% over the long term.Beth Hammack, Neel Kashkari and Lorie Logan supported holding rates steady but “did not support inclusion of an easing bias in the statement at this time.”The trio reportedly objected to language referencing “additional adjustments to the target range,” given that the Fed’s most recent actions have been rate cuts.
Sector moves show divergence
Despite the broader market’s muted tone, some sectors posted strong gains. Networking stocks led the advance, with the NYSE Arca Networking Index jumping 4.8% to a record close.Energy shares also rallied alongside oil prices, pushing the NYSE Arca Oil Index up 3.2%.Semiconductor, computer hardware and oil services stocks showed solid gains as well, while gold, airline and steel stocks moved lower during the session.Alphabet stock priceAmazon stock priceQualcomm stock priceMeta stock priceBoeing stock priceIBM stock priceTravelers Companies stock priceMicrosoft stock price
Original: U.S. stocks set for higher open as tech earnings boost sentiment: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street Futures
iHub News
2月前
Tech earnings, oil spike and Fed decision drive market moves: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street FuturesApril 30, 2026 5:23 AM
IH Market News
Futures tied to major U.S. indices traded in mixed fashion as investors processed a wave of catalysts, including big tech earnings, a renewed surge in Brent crude prices, and a closely watched Federal Reserve rate decision. The pace of developments is expected to continue, with more earnings reports and central bank announcements ahead.
Futures show mixed direction
U.S. equity futures hovered near flat levels on Thursday as traders reacted to a series of major updates shaping market sentiment.As of 03:35 ET, Dow futures were down 275 points, or 0.6%, S&P 500 futures slipped 6 points, or 0.1%, while Nasdaq 100 futures edged up 30 points, or 0.1%.Wall Street’s main indices ended the previous session with mixed performance, as investors balanced solid corporate earnings with the implications of the latest Federal Reserve decision.
Big tech earnings highlight AI spending trends
After the close, several mega-cap technology companies reported quarterly results, offering further insight into the scale of artificial intelligence investment.Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG) led what Deutsche Bank analysts described as a “decent set” of results from the so-called Magnificent 7.Shares of the Google parent rose in after-hours trading, helped by stronger-than-expected cloud revenue growth. Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) also advanced, supported by its fastest AWS revenue growth since 2022.Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT) reported cloud revenue broadly in line with expectations and signaled stronger growth in the second half of the year.However, Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) declined after hours after raising its 2026 capital expenditure outlook by $20 billion to a range of $125 billion to $145 billion.Collectively, the four companies spent a record $130.65 billion in the first quarter, primarily on expanding data center capacity for AI — a 71% increase compared to the same period last year.
Oil prices jump on geopolitical tensions
While markets assessed earnings, oil prices surged to their highest levels since the start of the Iran conflict in late February following new geopolitical developments.According to Axios, Donald Trump is set to receive a briefing on potential new military action against Iran, as efforts continue to bring Tehran back to negotiations over its nuclear programme.Trump also wrote on social media: “Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!”Analysts at ING said the situation has shifted market sentiment, noting: “The oil market has moved from over-optimism to the reality of the supply disruption we are seeing in the Persian Gulf.”
Fed decision reveals internal divisions
The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged, as widely expected, but the decision highlighted growing disagreement among policymakers — the most divided outcome since the early 1990s.Rates remain in a range of 3.5% to 3.75%, and the Fed did not alter its policy language, which continues to suggest the next move could be a rate cut. Four members of the Federal Open Market Committee dissented.Fed Chair Jerome Powell also announced he will remain on the central bank’s board after his term ends in May, breaking with precedent and potentially complicating the transition to Kevin Warsh.Powell said he was concerned about “the series of legal attacks on the Fed,” adding that these “threaten our ability to conduct monetary policy without considering political factors.”
ECB and BOE decisions ahead
Attention now turns to policy decisions from the European Central Bank and the Bank of England later on Thursday.The ECB is expected to hold its deposit rate at 2%, although Deutsche Bank analysts noted that markets are increasingly pricing in a rate hike at the June meeting due to rising energy costs.“[S]o the question today is whether the ECB validates that view,” the Deutsche Bank analysts wrote.Meanwhile, the Bank of England is also expected to keep rates unchanged at 3.75%, while signaling concerns over slower growth and rising inflation pressures in the broader outlook.Alphabet stock priceAmazon stock priceMicrosoft stock priceMeta stock price
Original: Tech earnings, oil spike and Fed decision drive market moves: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street Futures
iHub News
2月前
Meta shares fall after higher capital spending outlookApril 30, 2026 2:34 AM
IH Market News
Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) shares dropped more than 5% in after-hours trading on Wednesday after the company lifted its full-year capital expenditure forecast, citing rising component costs and continued investment in data center expansion.The Meta Platforms owner now expects 2026 capital expenditures in the range of $125 billion to $145 billion, up from its prior outlook of $115 billion to $135 billion and slightly above the Street estimate of $125.26 billion, according to Jefferies data.
AI spending surge draws investor scrutiny
The updated guidance comes as investor focus intensifies on the scale of spending required to support artificial intelligence. Meta, which operates platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram, has been aggressively investing in infrastructure, particularly data centers, to advance its AI capabilities.Part of the increased spending outlook reflects higher anticipated component prices. Ahead of the earnings release, The Wall Street Journal reported that the company had extended the lifespan of some data center servers due to a “significant server supply deficit” tied to ongoing shortages in memory chips, citing internal documents.
Revenue outlook and broader sector pressures
Meta maintained its full-year expense forecast between $162 billion and $169 billion, broadly in line with expectations of $163.77 billion. For the second quarter of 2026, the company projected revenue between $58 billion and $61 billion, with the midpoint slightly below the $59.6 billion consensus estimate.The earnings report arrives amid broader pressure on the tech sector, following concerns about slowing growth at OpenAI. A recent Wall Street Journal report suggested the ChatGPT developer fell short of internal targets for user growth and revenue, weighing on sentiment across AI-focused stocks.These developments have fueled debate about whether the massive capital outlays by hyperscalers like Meta will deliver sufficient returns, with total industry spending on AI infrastructure expected to exceed $700 billion this year.
Strong earnings performance despite concerns
Meta reported first-quarter earnings per share of $10.44 on revenue of $56.31 billion, significantly exceeding analyst expectations of $6.65 per share and $55.52 billion in revenue.CEO Mark Zuckerberg highlighted the company’s progress, stating, “We had a milestone quarter with strong momentum across our apps and the release of our first model from Meta Superintelligence Labs. We’re on track to deliver personal superintelligence to billions of people.”The company noted that earnings were boosted by an $8.03 billion income tax benefit recognized during the quarter.
User growth and regulatory risks in focus
Meta’s family of apps reached 3.56 billion average users in March, up 4% year over year, though slightly lower on a sequential basis. The company attributed the quarterly dip to internet disruptions in Iran and restrictions affecting WhatsApp usage in Russia.In addition, Meta flagged ongoing legal and regulatory challenges that could weigh on future performance. The company stated it is monitoring “active legal and regulatory matters, including headwinds in the EU and the U.S. that could significantly impact our business and financial results.”“For example, we continue to see scrutiny on youth-related issues and have additional trials scheduled for this year in the U.S., which may ultimately result in a material loss,” META said.Meta stock price
Original: Meta shares fall after higher capital spending outlook
iHub News
2月前
Fed Decision Looms, Tech Earnings Could Drive Volatile Session: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street FuturesApril 29, 2026 9:16 AM
IH Market News
U.S. stock index futures are pointing to a largely flat open on Wednesday, suggesting markets may struggle to find direction following the previous session’s pullback.Investors appear cautious ahead of the Federal Reserve’s latest policy decision due later in the day.According to CME Group’s FedWatch Tool, markets are pricing in a 100% probability that the Fed will keep interest rates unchanged for a third consecutive meeting.With the outcome widely expected, attention is likely to shift to the central bank’s statement for signals on the future path of rates. Still, given the Fed’s tendency to avoid detailed forward guidance, focus may instead turn to earnings from major technology companies.Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOGL), Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN), Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META), and Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) are all set to report results after the market close.As members of the so-called “Magnificent Seven,” their earnings could significantly influence sentiment, particularly as concerns around AI-related spending re-emerge.Meanwhile, markets have largely brushed aside another spike in oil prices, even as U.S. crude futures climbed above $100 per barrel following fresh threats toward Iran from President Donald Trump.“Iran can’t get their act together. They don’t know how to sign a nonnuclear deal. They better get smart soon!” Trump wrote on Truth Social, alongside an image of himself holding a rifle and the phrase “No more Mr. Nice Guy!”
Previous Session Recap
After a mixed and volatile Monday, U.S. equities moved mostly lower on Tuesday, with all major indices finishing in negative territory. The tech-heavy Nasdaq saw the sharpest decline.The Nasdaq Composite dropped 223.30 points, or 0.9%, to 24,663.80. The S&P 500 fell 35.11 points, or 0.5%, to 7,138.90, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 25.86 points, or 0.1%, to 49,141.93.The Nasdaq retreated from its recent record close as AI-linked stocks came under pressure following a report by The Wall Street Journal indicating that OpenAI had fallen short of internal targets for user growth and revenue.According to sources cited by the WSJ, the shortfall has raised concerns within the company about whether it can sustain its heavy investments in data center infrastructure.Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL), a key partner in OpenAI’s infrastructure buildout, dropped 4.1%.Semiconductor stocks also came under pressure, with Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:AVGO), Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (NASDAQ:AMD), and NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:NVDA) all posting notable losses.
Oil Surge and Geopolitical Tensions
Rising oil prices added to market concerns, with U.S. crude futures briefly topping $100 per barrel before easing.Prices have climbed sharply in recent sessions due to ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran.The latest rally follows signs that Trump is unlikely to accept Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the conflict while postponing nuclear negotiations.In another Truth Social post, Trump claimed Iran is in a “state of collapse” and is eager to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as it navigates internal leadership challenges.CNN reported that Iran is preparing a “revised proposal,” with mediators in Pakistan awaiting the updated plan.
Sector Moves
Gold-related stocks fell sharply as bullion prices dropped, with the NYSE Arca Gold Bugs Index plunging 4.6%.Semiconductor shares also saw heavy selling, dragging the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index down 3.6%.Additional weakness was seen in computer hardware, networking, and airline stocks, while energy names, particularly oil and gas companies, moved higher.Alphabet stock priceAmazon stock priceMeta stock priceMicrosoft stock price
Original: Fed Decision Looms, Tech Earnings Could Drive Volatile Session: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street Futures
iHub News
2月前
Markets Steady Ahead of Fed Decision and Key Tech Earnings: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street FuturesApril 29, 2026 5:16 AM
IH Market News
U.S. equity futures were slightly higher on Wednesday but remained close to flat, as investors braced for a wave of major announcements that could influence market direction. The Federal Reserve is widely expected to leave interest rates unchanged, though reports suggest it may adopt a more hawkish tone in its policy statement. At the same time, several mega-cap technology firms are set to report earnings, with particular focus on their spending around artificial intelligence. In Europe, a heavy slate of corporate results is also underway, while Donald Trump has reportedly instructed aides to prepare for a prolonged blockade of Iranian ports.
Futures Tick Slightly Higher
U.S. stock futures moved modestly higher early in the session, ahead of what is shaping up to be one of the busiest trading days of the year.As of 03:26 ET, Dow futures were up 47 points, or 0.1%, S&P 500 futures gained 5 points, or 0.1%, and Nasdaq 100 futures rose 85 points, or 0.3%.Wall Street’s main indices declined in the previous session, largely due to concerns about the financial health of OpenAI after a report from The Wall Street Journal indicated the company had missed certain revenue and user targets. Stocks linked to OpenAI, either through partnerships or investments, also came under pressure.Meanwhile, ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran continued to weigh on sentiment, with stalled negotiations delaying any reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which has effectively been shut to shipping for weeks. Oil prices have risen as a result, raising concerns about inflation and global growth.Despite these headwinds, corporate earnings have shown resilience. According to Reuters, just over one-third of S&P 500 sectors have reported results so far, with 81% of companies exceeding expectations.
Fed Decision in Focus
The Federal Reserve is expected to keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged within a range of 3.5% to 3.75% at the conclusion of its two-day meeting, as policymakers assess the inflationary impact of geopolitical tensions.Reports from the The Wall Street Journal suggest the Fed could adjust its forward guidance in a more hawkish direction by removing references to potential rate cuts in 2026.The meeting may also mark one of the final press conferences by Fed Chair Jerome Powell, whose term is set to expire in May.“Powell’s (supposedly) final press conference shouldn’t rock the boat, but he could err a bit on the hawkish side given the lack of progress in the Gulf,” analysts at ING Group said in a note.Former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh has been nominated by Trump as Powell’s successor, with the Senate Banking Committee expected to vote on his confirmation this week.
Tech Earnings Take Center Stage
Investors are also closely watching a wave of earnings reports, particularly from major technology firms whose heavy investment in AI has fueled recent market gains.Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG), Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), and Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) are all scheduled to release results after the close.Following the negative sentiment sparked by the OpenAI report, these earnings will serve as a key test for confidence in the AI-driven market rally.“[P]articipants will be looking not only for the classic ‘beat and raise’ from these ‘Magnificent Seven’ names, but also for clarity as to the scale of capital expenditure over coming quarters, the source of that expenditure, and the timeframe over which a return on said investment is likely to be achieved,” said Michael Brown.“With the sector coming into earnings, essentially, at record highs, we are to a degree ‘priced for perfection’, leaving little room for disappointment, and with the market hence likely to punish any sub-par reports.”Beyond tech, companies including AbbVie (NYSE:ABBV), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:REGN), and Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) are also due to report.
European Earnings Flood Markets
Amid the ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, several major European companies released results earlier in the day.Adidas AG saw its shares jump more than 7% after reporting stronger-than-expected first-quarter operating profit, despite a “very volatile and heavily discounted” retail environment.UBS Group AG rose after posting an 80% increase in quarterly profit, supported by strong trading and client activity linked to market volatility.STMicroelectronics advanced to its highest level since 2024 following better-than-expected results.Airbus SE edged higher after reaffirming its annual delivery targets, even as it faces supply challenges from Pratt & Whitney.Mercedes-Benz Group AG posted modest gains despite weaker revenue, while Banco Santander hovered near flat after reporting a 12.5% rise in underlying profit.
Trump Prepares for Extended Iran Blockade
Donald Trump has instructed his team to prepare for a prolonged blockade of Iran, according to a report by the The Wall Street Journal.Citing U.S. officials, the report said the strategy would focus on intensifying pressure on Iran’s oil exports and restricting shipping access, with a blockade seen as a lower-risk option compared to renewed large-scale military action or rapid diplomatic efforts.This approach follows a ceasefire in April that halted a major bombing campaign but left regional tensions unresolved.According to the report, Trump recently rejected a three-step proposal from Iran that would have allowed an early reopening of the Strait of Hormuz while postponing nuclear negotiations, considering it insufficient to meet U.S. demands.The report added that Trump remains firm on requiring Iran to suspend uranium enrichment for at least 20 years and accept additional long-term restrictions.Alphabet stock priceMicrosoft stock priceAmazon stock priceMeta stock priceAbbVie stock priceRegeneron Pharmaceuticals stock pricePhillips 66 stock price
Original: Markets Steady Ahead of Fed Decision and Key Tech Earnings: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Wall Street Futures
iHub News
2月前
Meta Secures Space-Based Solar Energy Deal to Power AI Data CentersApril 27, 2026 11:26 AM
IH Market News
Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) announced Monday that it has entered into an agreement to purchase up to 1 gigawatt of space-based solar energy from Overview Energy, a company developing satellite technology to harvest sunlight in orbit and transmit it back to Earth as electricity.The planned capacity is roughly equivalent to the output of a nuclear reactor. Overview Energy’s system, which envisions space-based solar arrays sending power to the grid, is still in development, with an initial orbital demonstration targeted for 2028.
Long-Term Power Supply Planned for 2030
While financial details were not disclosed, the agreement grants Meta preferential access to Overview Energy’s future energy capacity. The companies expect commercial delivery of electricity to begin around 2030.
Supporting Massive AI Infrastructure Expansion
The deal aligns with Meta’s broader push to scale its artificial intelligence infrastructure, which includes significant investments in energy supply, computing resources, and data center capacity. The company is committing hundreds of billions of dollars to support its growing AI operations.Nat Sahlstrom, Meta’s vice president of energy and sustainability, said in a statement that the company is aiming to secure access to clean and reliable energy through initiatives like its partnership with Overview Energy.
More about Meta Platforms
Meta Platforms is a global technology company focused on social media, digital communication, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality, with increasing investment in infrastructure to support next-generation computing demands.Meta stock price
Original: Meta Secures Space-Based Solar Energy Deal to Power AI Data Centers
iHub News
2月前
Five Key Market Themes to Watch in the Week AheadApril 27, 2026 6:29 AM
IH Market News
It’s shaping up to be a packed week for financial markets. With U.S.-Iran negotiations stalled and the Strait of Hormuz largely closed, investors are navigating a mix of geopolitical risks, a heavy earnings calendar, major central bank decisions and key economic data releases.
1. U.S.-Iran tensions remain in focus
Market participants are bracing for continued headlines around negotiations between the United States and Iran, which appear to have reached a standstill.Over the weekend, Donald Trump cancelled plans to send negotiators to Pakistan for renewed talks, after Iran’s foreign minister made a brief visit to Islamabad. Trump indicated he would wait for Tehran to “call” him, arguing that Washington holds most of the leverage.Attention on Monday centred on a report from Axios suggesting Iran has submitted a proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and bring the conflict to an end, while delaying discussions on its nuclear programme.Although the report briefly eased oil price pressures, crude remains well above pre-conflict levels due to the disruption in the strait. The passage is a critical route for roughly 20% of global oil supply, and prolonged restrictions could have significant economic consequences worldwide.
2. Heavy earnings week led by tech giants
Beyond geopolitics, investors are also preparing for a busy stretch of corporate earnings.The reporting season begins Monday with Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE:VZ), and around 35% of S&P 500 companies are set to release results over the coming days.“[S]tocks aren’t just a geopolitical story. Q1 reporting season has been solid thus far, with the S&P set for a sixth straight quarter of double-digit earnings growth, while enthusiasm towards the tech sector has also made a notable resurgence,” said Michael Brown, Senior Research Strategist at Pepperstone.The spotlight will be firmly on major technology firms heavily investing in artificial intelligence, including Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG), Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) and Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:META).These investments remain central to the ongoing AI-driven market narrative, which has supported equities despite geopolitical headwinds. Stock indices have surged in recent weeks, reaching fresh record highs.
3. Federal Reserve decision takes centre stage
Alongside earnings, attention will turn to central banks, with several key rate decisions scheduled this week.The highlight will be the Federal Reserve, which is widely expected to keep interest rates unchanged following its two-day meeting concluding Wednesday.Expectations for imminent rate cuts have eased since the escalation of the Iran conflict, which triggered an energy shock and renewed inflation concerns globally. Some analysts argue that holding rates steady could still support U.S. assets, especially as other central banks consider tightening policy.Meanwhile, uncertainty remains over the future of Fed Chair Jerome Powell, who is due to step down in May but has not confirmed whether he will remain on the rate-setting committee. Trump’s nominee to succeed him, Kevin Warsh, has yet to be confirmed, though progress may have been made after the Justice Department ended an investigation into Powell.
4. Global central bank decisions lined up
In addition to the Fed, markets will also digest policy updates from the European Central Bank, Bank of England and Bank of Japan.The ECB is expected to leave rates unchanged at its April 30 meeting, although a rate hike in June remains possible as policymakers respond to inflation pressures linked to the conflict.The Bank of England is also seen holding rates steady on Thursday while assessing the impact of inflation and growth trends, though some investors expect tightening later in the year.In Japan, the Bank of Japan is likewise forecast to keep rates unchanged, but could signal a more hawkish stance as inflation risks rise alongside higher energy costs.
5. U.S. GDP and inflation data in focus
Economic data releases will also be closely watched.One of the key indicators will be the first estimate of U.S. GDP for the first quarter, with growth expected to come in at 2.2%, up from 0.5% in the final quarter of 2025.However, Pepperstone’s Brown noted that the figure may be “artificially boosted” due to the reversal of distortions caused by a prolonged government shutdown in the prior quarter.Markets will also look to the March reading of the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index, a key inflation gauge closely monitored by the Federal Reserve.Verizon Communications stock priceAlphabet stock priceMicrosoft stock priceMeta stock price
Original: Five Key Market Themes to Watch in the Week Ahead
iHub News
2月前
Amazon Gains as Meta Expands AI Partnership Using AWS GravitonApril 24, 2026 10:08 AM
IH Market News
Shares of Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN) rose around 2% on Friday after Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) unveiled a major expansion of its partnership with Amazon Web Services, centered on deploying tens of millions of AWS Graviton processor cores for advanced AI workloads.
Meta Scales Up AI Infrastructure
Meta said it will become one of the largest global users of Graviton chips, with initial deployment involving tens of millions of cores. The move builds on its existing AWS relationship as the company broadens its computing infrastructure to support agentic AI systems capable of reasoning, planning and executing complex tasks autonomously.Graviton5 processors are designed to deliver faster data throughput and higher bandwidth, features Meta highlighted as essential for large-scale AI systems that continuously process and act on information.
Focus on Agentic AI Systems
“This isn’t just about chips; it’s about giving customers the infrastructure foundation, as well as data and inference services, to build AI that understands, anticipates, and scales efficiently to billions of people worldwide,” said Nafea Bshara. “Meta’s expanded partnership, deploying tens of millions of Graviton cores, shows what happens when you combine purpose-built silicon with the full AWS AI stack to power the next generation of agentic AI.”Meta’s Head of Infrastructure Santosh Janardhan added: “AWS has been a trusted cloud partner for years, and expanding to Graviton allows us to run the CPU-intensive workloads behind agentic AI with the performance and efficiency we need at our scale.”
CPUs Take Center Stage in Next AI Phase
Amazon also highlighted the growing importance of CPUs in agentic AI systems, which differ from traditional large language models by acting more like autonomous managers capable of handling multi-step processes rather than simply responding to prompts.These systems require sustained computing power and rapid communication between processing units, making CPUs critical for tasks such as logic execution, file handling, networking and code processing.Graviton chips are designed to minimise latency and improve communication efficiency across cores—key requirements for AI systems that continuously exchange data during reasoning workflows.
Analyst View: Opportunity in Custom Silicon
Adam Crisafulli of Vital Knowledge said improving sentiment around Amazon in recent months has been partly driven by growing recognition of its custom silicon strategy.“The Graviton commentary is important/interesting in two respects: 1) Amazon emphasizes how critical the CPU (a market historically dominated by INTC and AMD) is becoming for the next phase of AI, one dominated by agents (GPUs were key for LLMs, but CPUs are vital for agents, which is why INTC is performing so well); and 2) Amazon notes that Meta is utilizing Graviton, underscoring the substantial opportunity for Amazon’s custom silicon,” wrote Crisafulli.Amazon stock priceMeta stock price
Original: Amazon Gains as Meta Expands AI Partnership Using AWS Graviton
BottomBounce
2月前
$META Meta is showing several clear bearish pressure points — rising spending, technical breakdown risk, and growing investor anxiety about AI-driven capex.
Below is a fully grounded, fact-based bearish thesis using the latest available data.
📉 1. Sentiment Has Turned Sharply Negative After Earnings
Meta delivered a strong quarter, but the stock fell more than 7% in after-hours trading because investors focused on what comes next, not the backward-looking beat. Rising capital expenditures and cautious guidance triggered a sentiment reversal, with traders selling the “buy-the-rumor” rally.
This shift wasn’t about performance — it was about fear of another overspending cycle like the one that erased 75% of Meta’s value in 2022.
🧨 2. CapEx Is Exploding — And Investors Are Worried
Meta is entering another massive investment cycle:
Q3 CapEx: $19.4 billion
2025 CapEx projected: $70–72 billion, up from $39B in 2024
2026 CapEx: expected to be “noticeably larger”
Long-term AI investment plan: $600 billion by 2028
Investors fear these costs won’t translate into proportional revenue — echoing the failed metaverse bet.
This is the single biggest reason Wall Street is turning bearish.
📉 3. Technical Breakdown Levels Are in Play
Meta hit all-time highs near $800 before rolling over. The 50-day moving average has already turned down, and the post-earnings drop reversed the short-term rally.
Key levels to watch:
$700 = critical support
A break targets the 200-day MA near $675
If momentum accelerates, $600 becomes the next likely test
A bounce from $600 would likely be a dead-cat rally, not a trend reversal.
⚠️ 4. Wall Street Is Split — And That’s a Warning Sign
Despite strong fundamentals, analysts are increasingly cautious:
Some analysts highlight the risk of margin pressure from AI spending.
Meta’s stock is down 16% since its earnings release despite revenue rising 26%.
The lowest analyst price target sits at $605, implying meaningful downside risk.
This divergence — strong business, weak stock — is classic bearish setup behavior.
BottomBounce
3月前
⭐ How $PLUG Could Help $META: Hydrogen Backup Power for Meta’s AI Supercomputing Expansion
Meta ($META) is transforming into an AI-infrastructure powerhouse.
Between Llama, Reels ranking, ads optimization, AR/VR compute, and metaverse workloads, Meta is building some of the largest AI data centers in the world.
But Meta’s biggest bottleneck isn’t GPUs — it’s power.
AI data centers are projected to consume 10% of all U.S. electricity by 2030, and Meta is already facing:
grid congestion and long interconnection queues
multi-hour to multi-day backup requirements
pressure to eliminate diesel generators
aggressive decarbonization commitments
the need for scalable, modular, clean backup power
This is where Plug Power ($PLUG) becomes strategically relevant to Meta’s long-term AI and metaverse infrastructure roadmap.
🔋 Why Plug Power Matters to Meta’s AI and Data-Center Strategy
Meta is rapidly expanding:
AI supercomputing clusters
Llama training infrastructure
GPU-dense data-center campuses
AR/VR compute backends
global edge-AI deployments
These require clean, reliable, long-duration backup power — something diesel can’t provide at hyperscale anymore.
Plug Power offers a rare, fully integrated hydrogen ecosystem:
green hydrogen production
electrolyzers for on-site hydrogen generation
liquid & gaseous hydrogen distribution
storage, compression, and fueling systems
stationary fuel-cell backup power
This end-to-end capability aligns directly with Meta’s need for modular, scalable, decarbonized backup power across its global data-center fleet.
🚀 How PLUG Strengthens Meta’s AI and Metaverse Infrastructure
1️⃣ Accelerates Meta’s AI data-center build-outs
Meta is building some of the largest AI campuses in the world.
Hydrogen backup systems allow Meta to:
replace diesel generators
meet sustainability and regulatory requirements
secure multi-day backup without massive battery farms
speed up permitting and interconnection timelines
Every time PLUG enables a new Meta data-center region, Meta can deploy more AI compute.
2️⃣ Supports Llama training and inference at scale
Llama models require enormous compute capacity.
Hydrogen-powered backup systems help Meta:
maintain uptime for multi-week training runs
protect GPU clusters from grid instability
scale AI infrastructure without diesel limitations
PLUG’s long-duration fuel-cell systems are ideal for GPU-dense, high-uptime AI workloads.
3️⃣ Helps Meta meet its aggressive climate commitments
Meta has pledged:
net-zero emissions across its value chain
100% renewable energy
elimination of diesel generators
Hydrogen-based backup power directly supports these goals by:
reducing Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions
avoiding diesel-related regulatory pressure
enabling clean, resilient infrastructure
PLUG’s green hydrogen ecosystem fits perfectly into Meta’s sustainability strategy.
4️⃣ Creates a complementary ecosystem: Meta AI + Hydrogen Power
Meta builds the AI models, the metaverse infrastructure, and the global social platforms.
PLUG builds the clean-power systems that keep them running.
Together, they support:
hyperscale AI campuses
global data-center expansion
Llama training clusters
AR/VR compute backends
edge-AI deployments for Meta’s apps
Hydrogen becomes a strategic enabler of Meta’s long-term AI and metaverse ambitions.
🌐 Hydrogen Demand Is Expanding — and Meta Is a Major Catalyst
Hydrogen is scaling across:
AI data centers
grid balancing
backup power
logistics and trucking
industrial heat
aerospace
government decarbonization initiatives
As hydrogen becomes a multi-trillion-dollar market, PLUG is one of the few U.S. suppliers positioned to serve AI-driven demand, not just industrial demand.
⭐ Bottom Line: $PLUG Could Become a Critical Enabler of $META’s AI and Metaverse Expansion
Plug Power sits at the intersection of three forces that directly benefit Meta:
1️⃣ AI data centers need clean, long-duration backup power
2️⃣ Hydrogen infrastructure is scaling across the U.S. and Europe
3️⃣ PLUG’s vertical integration captures value from production to end-use
Where most companies offer only fuel cells or only hydrogen supply, PLUG delivers the entire chain — production, delivery, storage, fueling, and stationary power.
As Meta moves away from diesel and toward hydrogen-based backup systems, PLUG becomes one of the few U.S. companies capable of powering Meta’s next wave of AI and metaverse infrastructure.
iHub News
3月前
Wall Street Set for Further Gains as U.S.-Iran Talk Optimism Builds: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, FuturesApril 16, 2026 9:14 AM
IH Market News
U.S. stock futures point to a slightly higher open on Thursday, suggesting equities could build on the strong rally seen in recent sessions.Markets appear poised to carry forward the positive momentum that pushed both the Nasdaq and S&P 500 to record closing highs on Wednesday.Investors remain hopeful about a potential second round of negotiations between the United States and Iran, although no official meeting has yet been confirmed.Reports indicate the two sides are weighing a two-week extension of the current ceasefire to create more room for diplomatic discussions.“It’s like the events of the past month-and-a-half have been placed in the rearview mirror by investors,” said Dan Coatsworth, head of markets at AJ Bell.He added, “The market’s sanguine perspective may be tested if the rhetoric about an end to the fighting isn’t matched by reality sooner rather than later.”Futures moved modestly higher after the Labor Department released data showing initial jobless claims in the U.S. declined more than expected in the week ending April 11.Following the early-week rally, stocks continued their upward trajectory on Wednesday, with both the Nasdaq and S&P 500 finishing at fresh record highs.The Nasdaq climbed 376.93 points, or 1.6%, to 24,016.02, while the S&P 500 gained 55.57 points, or 0.8%, to close at 7,022.95. In contrast, the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 72.27 points, or 0.2%, to 48,463.72.The Nasdaq’s strong performance was driven in part by gains in technology stocks, with Broadcom (NASDAQ:AVGO) leading the sector higher.Shares of Broadcom (NASDAQ:AVGO) jumped 4.2% after the company unveiled a multi-year, multi-generation partnership aimed at supporting Meta (NASDAQ:META) in scaling its artificial intelligence infrastructure.Meanwhile, the Dow’s decline was partly due to a sharp drop in Caterpillar (NYSE:CAT), with the construction equipment maker falling 3.0%.Traders continued to express confidence that tensions in the Middle East could ease, even as they await further clarity on upcoming U.S.-Iran talks.In an interview with Fox Business, President Donald Trump said the conflict is “very close to over” and repeated his view that Iran is eager to strike a deal “very badly.”Trump also forecast that the “stock market is going to boom” once the conflict involving the U.S., Israel and Iran comes to an end.Software stocks posted strong gains, with the Dow Jones U.S. Software Index surging 4.6%.Brokerage firms also performed well, reflected in a 1.9% rise in the NYSE Arca Broker/Dealer Index.On the downside, gold-related stocks declined sharply as bullion prices fell, pulling the NYSE Arca Gold Bugs Index down by 3.1%.Housing stocks also came under pressure following data showing a larger-than-expected drop in homebuilder confidence, with the Philadelphia Housing Sector Index falling 2.0%.Broadcom stock priceMeta stock priceCaterpillar stock price
Original: Wall Street Set for Further Gains as U.S.-Iran Talk Optimism Builds: Dow Jones, S&P, Nasdaq, Futures
iHub News
3月前
Meta Deepens Broadcom Partnership to Advance Custom AI Chip DevelopmentApril 15, 2026 6:40 AM
IH Market News
Meta (NASDAQ:META) has expanded its collaboration with chipmaker Broadcom (NASDAQ:AVGO) to develop multiple generations of in-house artificial intelligence processors, as the company accelerates efforts to scale the infrastructure needed to support AI-driven features across its platforms.The updated agreement, announced Tuesday, runs through 2029 and includes an initial deployment exceeding one gigawatt of computing power—roughly equivalent to the electricity usage of about 750,000 average U.S. households.As part of the arrangement, Broadcom’s CEO Hock Tan will step down from Meta’s board and transition into an advisory role focused on the company’s custom silicon strategy, according to a joint statement.With demand for AI computing surging, major technology firms including Meta, Google and Amazon are increasingly investing in proprietary chip designs to reduce dependence on Nvidia’s high-cost hardware.This shift has positioned Broadcom as a key beneficiary of the generative AI boom, leveraging its expertise in custom processor design alongside its infrastructure software offerings.In after-hours trading, Broadcom shares rose 3.5%, while Meta’s stock showed little movement.The partnership will help “build out the massive computing foundation we need to deliver personal superintelligence to billions of people,” said Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg.Meta, which recently outlined plans for four new chip designs, described the initial capacity commitment with Broadcom as “the first phase of a sustained, multi-gigawatt rollout.”Broadcom’s Ethernet networking solutions will also play a central role in linking Meta’s expanding network of AI data centres.The first processor from Meta’s Training and Inference Accelerator (MTIA) initiative, the MTIA 300, is already being used to power ranking and recommendation systems. Three additional chip generations are expected by 2027, with later versions focused on inference—enabling AI systems to generate responses to user inputs.Separately, Meta announced that board member Tracey Travis, who joined in 2020, will not seek re-election at the company’s upcoming annual shareholder meeting.Meta stock priceBroadcom stock price
Original: Meta Deepens Broadcom Partnership to Advance Custom AI Chip Development
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