Stock Movers Southwest Airlines Rises, Las Vegas Sands Falls, Microsoft Drops on Weak Azure Growth
Jan 29, 2026
Bailey Lipschultz, Bloomberg reporter and market analyst who provides company-specific stock commentary. Bailey breaks down Southwest’s surprise beat and its move to assigned seating. She explains why Las Vegas Sands stumbled on Macau property results. She also covers Microsoft’s weak Azure growth and rising expenses.
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Southwest's Strategy Signals Profit Focus
- Southwest beat Q4 expectations and forecast much stronger 2026 earnings, signaling a sharp recovery path for the carrier.
- Management's move to assigned seating and premium options shows strategic shifts to boost profit per passenger.
Listener Memories Of Old Boarding Perks
- Paul Sweeney recalls how Southwest's open boarding was a fan favorite for frequent flyers like his parents.
- The shift to assigned seats removes that distinction and changes the customer experience he described fondly.
Macau Weakness Hits Las Vegas Sands
- Las Vegas Sands missed expectations in Macau with property EBITDA shortfalls at The Venetian and Londoner, weighing on the stock.
- Slower VIP demand and competition targeting mass customers are central headwinds for the operator.