Discussion on the government shutdown and its effect on investors and federal employees. The FTC's antitrust case against Amazon and its implications for big tech. Earnings updates from Costco, Nike, and Carmax. Analysis of petcare marketplace Rover and its future prospects. Breakdown of two stocks to watch: EPAM Systems and Intercontinental Exchange.
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Quick takeaways
Investors should maintain a long-term perspective during government shutdowns and be prepared for potential financial challenges.
Amazon's antitrust case may result in concessions, fines, or other outcomes, potentially impacting the company's relationship with third-party sellers and its dominance in the marketplace.
Deep dives
Government shutdown looms as investors brace for impact
With a government shutdown on the horizon, investors are preparing for potential volatility in the markets. While past shutdowns have not had a significant impact on the stock market in the long term, it is advised to maintain a long-term perspective and not panic or make hasty investment decisions. The potential impact on federal workers and contract workers is a concern, as millions could see delayed paychecks. This serves as a reminder for individuals to build emergency savings and be prepared for financial challenges.
Amazon faces antitrust allegations from the FTC
Amazon is facing an antitrust case brought by the FTC and 17 states alleging that the company engages in anti-competitive practices that harm rivals and sellers. The case is expected to lead to years of litigation, potentially resulting in concessions, fines, or other outcomes. One area of focus is Amazon's relationship with third-party sellers, with claims that the company's dominance and control over the marketplace may harm these sellers. However, some of the allegations, such as the impact of the Prime subscription fee on consumer choice, may face challenges given the level of competition in the retail and e-commerce space.
Meta announces new products and developments at Connect Conference
At its recent Connect Conference, Meta (formerly Facebook) unveiled various new products and AI advancements. Of particular interest were the Ray-Ban Smart Glasses, which integrate the company's AI assistant and offer live streaming to Facebook and Instagram. Meta's focus on integrating AI with its platforms, such as Facebook and Instagram, could be a potential game-changer. The company's emphasis on this integration, alongside other announcements, including AI chatbots, highlights its efforts to merge AI investments with the growing Metaverse concept. Despite initial skepticism, Meta's developments showcase continued innovation and potential for investment opportunities.
Rover's potential amid growing pet care demand
Rover, the pet care matchmaking network, is gaining traction amidst a surge in pet ownership and increased demand for pet care services. The company connects pet owners with trusted pet sitters and offers a range of services, including drop-in visits, walking, and boarding. Rover benefits from tailwinds such as the growing trend of pet owners treating their pets as family members and the rise in travel as pandemic restrictions ease. Despite risks such as competition from small players like WAG and concerns about customer stickiness, Rover's profitability and initiatives to maintain customer satisfaction position it as a compelling business in the pet care industry.
Friday’s deadline for government funding seems like it will pass without a resolution. We talk through the latest government shutdown and what it means for the market.
(00:21) Jason Moser and Andy Cross discuss: - The government shutdown and how investors and federal employees should be processing the news. - The FTC’s antitrust case against Amazon and what it means for big tech. - Earnings updates from Costco, Nike, and Carmax.
(19:11) Motley Fool analyst Rick Munarriz gives a rundown on Rover, the petcare marketplace, and explains the tailwinds and tailwags pushing the company forward. .
(33:01) Jason and Andy break down two stocks on their radar: EPAM Systems and Intercontinental Exchange.