US Consumer Confidence Slumps , Paramount Earnings, Tech Preview
Apr 30, 2024
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Chief Economist Dana Peterson discusses US consumer confidence trends, while Gene Munster previews Amazon and Apple earnings. Media analyst Geetha Ranganathan recaps Paramount earnings. Market strategist Chris Watling dives into market trends and investment strategies, including tech stock volatility and potential market correction.
McDonald's plans to focus on value menu promotions to attract customers amidst industry underperformance.
Investors monitor AWS competition and market share concerns as Amazon's cloud business faces slower growth rates.
Deep dives
McDonald's Faces Pressure Amid Slow Sales and Value Wars
McDonald's is experiencing flat sales in April, underperforming the industry, with potential slowing attributed to backlash over high-priced items like the $18 Big Mac meal. The company plans to focus on its value menu and offer promotions to attract customers, especially amid a value war among quick-service restaurants. McDonald's plans to test bigger burgers in the second half of the year to enhance customer value.
Amazon's AWS Cloud Growth Expects to Rebound
Amazon's AWS cloud business is expected to rebound with a growth rate of around 16%, following a decline in growth rates from high 20s to 12%. However, AWS faces competition from Azure and Google Cloud, which have been showing faster growth rates, prompting concerns about market share. Investors will closely watch AWS growth rates and market dynamics within the cloud industry.
Apple's Earnings Reflect China Weakness and AI Focus
Despite a decline in iPhone sales, Apple's shift in focus towards AI and potential uptakes in CapEx expenditure might mark an uptrend for the company. Investors look for guidance on Apple's China business, AI strategy, and the impact of investments in CapEx on margins. Apple aims to stay competitive and innovative amidst changing market dynamics.
Concerns Over GS-1 Drugs Impact on Restaurant Business Fade
Restaurants like McDonald's are less worried about the impact of GLP-1 drugs on their business, as estimates suggest a low percentage of consumers using such drugs. While initial concerns affected stock prices, companies are adapting to potential changes by focusing on innovation, value offerings, and cost management strategies.
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Dana Peterson, Chief Economist at the Conference Board, discusses the latest U.S consumer confidence data. Chris Watling, CEO and Chief Market Strategist of Longview Economics, discusses the latest on the markets. Geetha Ranganathan, Bloomberg Intelligence Analyst on US Media, recaps Paramount Global earnings. Gene Munster, Managing Partner at Deepwater Asset Management, previews Amazon and Apple earnings. Michael Halen, Bloomberg Intelligence Senior Restaurant and Foodservice Analyst, breaks down McDonalds earnings.