SoftBank left millions on the table in the Arm IPO to secure a win for Masayoshi Son. AI as a turning point for ecommerce. Pfizer and Moderna rolling out COVID-19 boosters. Bolt's CEO discusses how AI improves ecommerce. COVID-19 vaccine recommendations and challenges. Mixed messages in the market: automaker stocks, crude oil prices, UAW strike. Level 4460 in the market, Disney selling ABC assets, rising costs of streaming services.
SoftBank left millions on the table in the Arm IPO to secure a win for Masayoshi Son.
AI is a turning point for ecommerce.
Pfizer and Moderna rolling out updated COVID-19 boosters.
Deep dives
Automakers' Stocks Unfazed by UAW Strike
Despite the ongoing strike by the United Auto Workers (UAW) at the big three automakers, General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis, the market has not reacted negatively. This highlights the mixed messages and difficulty investors face in determining where to invest their money. While the strike could potentially impact US GDP and cause pockets of weakness, such as increased gas prices and potential disruptions in transportation sectors, the current market reaction shows resilience. However, the overall market outlook is facing challenges, with the S&P 500 giving up its gains for the week, crude oil prices reaching the highest levels of the year, and the dollar's strength potentially impacting go-forward sales for companies, especially those reliant on foreign sales like the tech sector.
Impact of UAW Strike on Markets and Economy
The ongoing UAW strike at automakers, coupled with other strikes and potential slowdowns, could have broader implications for the market and the economy. Disruptions in the transportation sector, rising gas prices, and potential effects on railroads and trucking could lead to a slowdown in the overall supply chain, impacting the cost of goods. If the strikes last for an extended period, the impact may be more significant than initially anticipated. Moreover, these labor actions coincide with the rising strength of the US dollar, which could further stress company sales, especially for tech firms with significant foreign sales. The overall effect might include weakened sales and potential difficulties for earnings ahead.
Dollar's Strength and Earnings Impact
The US dollar's strength, as indicated by the DXY breaking key levels, including 103 and reaching around 105, may have implications for the market and corporate earnings. If the dollar continues to appreciate, it might impact earnings, particularly for companies with significant exposure to foreign markets. The current strength of the dollar may start affecting go-forward sales, making the upcoming earnings season more challenging. Investors should closely monitor the dollar's movements, and resistance levels around 106 and 107 become critical if the appreciation persists.
Disney's Possible Sale of ABC Assets and Streaming Services
The possibility of Disney selling some of its ABC assets, particularly those related to broadcasting and ESPN, raises questions about the future of streaming services and sports programming costs. The potential sale could impact the streaming industry, especially for sports fans who might have to subscribe to multiple services to access different games. This highlights the increasing expenses for streaming consumers and the need to focus on the value of various streaming platforms, including the cost of accessing specific sports content. The move also reflects the constant evolution and competition within the streaming sector.
Looking Ahead to Powell's Outlook on Interest Rates
As the market eagerly awaits Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's remarks, one important question to ask him would be about his view on future interest rates. Understanding how Powell envisions interest rates over the longer term, particularly one year from now, could provide valuable insights for investors. While short-term rate expectations may be less crucial, longer-term rate projections will shape investment strategies and decisions. It would help market participants to have a clearer understanding of Powell's perspective on interest rates and how they might impact the markets in the future.
Bloomberg News US IPO Reporter Ryan Gould explains why SoftBank left millions on the table in the Arm IPO to secure a win for Masayoshi Son. Maju Kuruvilla, CEO of Bolt, discusses why AI is a turning point for ecommerce. Dr. Ian Lustbader, Clinical Professor of Medicine at NYU Langone, shares his thoughts on Pfizer and Moderna rolling out updated COVID-19 boosters. And we Drive to the Close with JJ Kinahan, CEO at IG North America. Hosts: Jess Menton and Simone Foxman. Producer: Paul Brennan.