Maryland Sees Sharp Drop in Weekly Jobless Claims, Outpacing National Trend
New unemployment filings in Maryland fell significantly last week, offering a spot of positive news for the state's labor market as national claims also edged lower.
New unemployment filings in Maryland fell significantly last week, offering a spot of positive news for the state's labor market as national claims also edged lower.
The United States, in coordination with European allies, has imposed new sanctions on Iran's Interior Minister and other officials, accusing them of orchestrating a violent suppression of nationwide protests. The measures target assets and travel, reflecting a widening international response to Tehran's handling of domestic unrest.
American Express reported record full-year revenues of $72 billion for 2025, driven by robust card member spending and a strategic shift towards premium products. The company forecasts continued momentum for 2026, targeting 9-10% revenue growth and a significant dividend hike, while navigating a competitive landscape and macroeconomic uncertainties.
CareDx CEO John Hanna sold over 19,000 shares under a pre-arranged trading plan, a move that comes as the transplant diagnostics firm posts strong revenue growth but continues to navigate a challenging stock market environment.
Financial Institutions Inc. (FISI) reported solid Q4 and full-year 2025 results, with net income reaching $73.4 million. The community bank, leveraging its deep roots in Upstate New York, is positioning for further growth in 2026, buoyed by major local investments like Micron's semiconductor project.
The automotive safety giant posted historic sales and cash flow in 2025, powered by explosive growth with Chinese automakers and in India. While navigating a softer production forecast and tariff headwinds, management projects margin expansion for 2026.
Oxford Lane Capital (OXLC) reported a challenging third fiscal quarter, marked by a significant drop in net asset value and investment income, prompting management to reduce its monthly distribution. The firm cited volatile conditions in the CLO and leveraged loan markets as key headwinds, while outlining a strategy to preserve capital for opportunistic investments.
Financial Institutions (FISI) reported solid Q4 and full-year 2025 results, beating guidance on key profitability metrics. Management highlighted disciplined loan growth, a strengthened capital position, and strategic shifts, while pointing to long-term opportunities from major industrial investments in its Upstate New York footprint.
Allegro MicroSystems (ALGM) has restructured its credit facilities, securing $285 million in new term loans maturing in 2030. The move provides the semiconductor firm with fresh capital for corporate initiatives as it navigates a capital-intensive sector while maintaining a premium market valuation.
Samsung Electronics unveils new on-device privacy controls for Galaxy users and a special Olympic Edition of its foldable phone, aiming to strengthen its brand and ecosystem ahead of the 2026 Winter Games, as its stock continues a strong run.
The trading platform's launch of commission-free event contracts for the Big Game has sparked interest, but its shares continue to struggle, raising questions about its valuation and growth narrative.
Ahead of its February 26 earnings report, Medical Properties Trust (NYSE: MPW) is witnessing a notable spike in options activity, with call volume soaring to roughly five times its usual level. This surge in speculative interest comes as the healthcare REIT's shares hover around $5.05, showing recent momentum but still grappling with a challenging multi-year performance. Analysts are divided on whether the stock's current price reflects lingering past troubles or is beginning to price in a potential recovery narrative.
Discount retailer Five Below is under investigation by law firm Johnson Fistel following declining sales, lowered guidance, and the sudden departure of its CEO. The legal scrutiny comes as the stock shows sharp volatility—up nearly 96% over the past year but down year-to-date—raising questions about its valuation and growth narrative.
Bitmine Immersion Technologies faces heightened scrutiny following the sudden departure of its president and a strategic pivot that has seen it amass over 3.5% of all Ethereum. Analysts question the dual risks of management instability and extreme asset concentration as the stock shows recent volatility.
Bilt's transition to a tiered rewards system forces its user base, largely comprised of renters, to recalculate the card's value. The changes, which require higher spending to unlock points on rent, have sparked confusion and a critical decision ahead of a fast-approaching deadline.
Charter Communications reported mixed Q4 2025 results, with continued broadband subscriber pressure offset by strong mobile growth and improved video trends. CEO Chris Winfrey outlined a strategy centered on 'guaranteed' connectivity, savings, and leveraging its converged network to win in a fiercely competitive market, while CFO Jessica Fischer signaled a shift towards a more conservative balance sheet.
Denmark's government announced a bold legislative package aimed at expanding deportations and tightening immigration controls, setting the stage for a potential clash with the European Court of Human Rights.
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warns in a confidential letter that the United Nations faces a severe cash crunch, driven by unpaid dues and restrictive budget rules, threatening its operational viability by mid-year.
As equity markets show signs of fatigue after a prolonged bull run, defensive sectors like utilities are gaining attention. The Vanguard Utilities ETF (VPU), with its low cost and stable dividend yield, presents a compelling option for investors seeking to buffer their portfolios against potential volatility.
Goldman Sachs raises its price target for Zeta Global (ZETA), citing strategic positioning ahead of an expected surge in software sector mergers and acquisitions driven by valuation gaps and synergy potential.