Wall Street Breakfast The Marlboro Man returns
Jul 22, 2025
Philip Morris surprises with strong cigarette sales, driven by its Marlboro brand. The podcast debates whether the Fed's chairman should step down to preserve the institution's credibility. Kohl's experiences a significant surge amid short-squeeze speculation. The discussion also covers the threats high-beta stocks pose to the broader market and highlights two AI models claiming victory in a math competition. Overall, it's a lively analysis of the current financial landscape and corporate earnings.
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Philip Morris Tobacco Strength
- Philip Morris saw a 2.1% revenue increase from combustible tobacco products due to strong pricing.
- Marlboro gained global market share, reaching the highest quarterly share since 2008.
Call for Powell's Resignation
- Economist Mohamed El-Aryan suggests Fed Chair Powell should resign to protect Federal Reserve independence.
- Such a move could reduce threats to independence better than Powell staying till term end.
GM Profit Hits by Tariffs
- General Motors' operating profit fell over 30% year-over-year due to import tariffs.
- Despite challenges, GM reaffirmed solid full-year guidance reflecting mitigation efforts.