The U.S. labor market faced its toughest year since the pandemic in 2025, with layoffs soaring to 1.2 million. Economists warn of an 'uncomfortably slow' rebound in 2026, leaving job seekers navigating a landscape of fierce competition and hiring freezes.
Millions of sole traders and landlords face a fundamental change in how late tax submissions are penalized, as HMRC prepares to replace automatic fines with a points-based regime starting in 2026.
A new Fox News survey reveals Democrats leading Republicans 52% to 46% in a generic congressional ballot for the 2026 midterms, the highest level of support recorded for either party in this poll series. Voter priorities and sharp partisan divides on key issues shape the early political landscape.
Ethereum enters February 2026 under pressure, testing key support near $2,690 after a historically weak January. Analysts are divided on whether seasonal trends or shifting on-chain dynamics will dictate the month's direction.
Trane Technologies (NYSE: TT) reported robust Q4 2025 results, driven by exceptional commercial HVAC demand and a record $7.8 billion backlog. While proactive inventory adjustments pressured residential margins, executives project 12-14% adjusted EPS growth for 2026, fueled by strategic acquisitions and sustained commercial strength.
Despite a persistently muted demand environment, Sherwin-Williams reported robust fourth-quarter earnings, driven by cost discipline and strategic acquisitions. The paint giant forecasts low-to-mid single-digit sales growth for 2026 while reinstating employee benefits, signaling cautious optimism amid ongoing economic headwinds.
RBC Capital has reaffirmed its confidence in Ascendis Pharma, raising its price target following the company's ambitious 2026 strategic goals, which hinge on sustained momentum for its lead therapy and significant long-term revenue targets.
Despite a recent price target cut by KeyBanc, On Holding AG (NYSE: ONON) remains a top growth pick for 2026, with Goldman Sachs upgrading the stock to Buy. Analysts highlight the brand's global momentum and product strength as key drivers.
Oshkosh Corporation reported full-year revenue of $10.4 billion and adjusted EPS of $10.79 for 2025. While projecting sales growth to approximately $11 billion in 2026, the company cautioned about near-term softness in its industrial access equipment segment and a significant $200 million tariff impact.
Apple is reportedly planning to prioritize the launch of its three highest-tier iPhone models in 2026, while delaying the rollout of a new standard edition, according to a Nikkei Asia report citing sources familiar with the matter. The move signals a strategic pivot towards the premium segment amid ongoing supply chain considerations.
Barclays raises Astera Labs' price target to $165, naming it a top pick for AI integration plays in its 2026 semiconductor outlook, while contrasting analyst views highlight the evolving debate on AI's infrastructure demands.
Olin Corporation is closing its Guarujá epoxy facility as part of a broader cost-cutting initiative, responding to soft chlorine demand and operational headwinds. The company pins a turnaround for its Epoxy segment on 2026, while its Winchester ammunition unit raises prices to counter inflation.
Axos Financial Inc. (AX) reported robust second-quarter earnings for fiscal 2026, highlighted by a 23.3% surge in earnings per share and significant loan portfolio expansion, even as it manages industry-wide margin pressures and rising operational costs.
Visa Inc. reported a 15% surge in net revenue for its first fiscal quarter of 2026, citing robust payments volume and significant gains in its value-added services and commercial solutions.
Mastercard reported robust Q4 and full-year 2025 results, driven by double-digit revenue growth and surging value-added services. Executives expressed confidence for 2026, highlighting strategic wins, investments in digital assets like stablecoins, and a focus on 'agentic commerce,' even as they plan a restructuring affecting 4% of staff.
Dolby Laboratories (NYSE: DLB) kicked off fiscal 2026 with robust first-quarter results, exceeding its own revenue and earnings forecasts. The audio-visual technology leader credits strong deal timing and highlighted significant momentum in automotive, television, and mobile partnerships, including expanded ties with Qualcomm and major social media platforms.
Equity Lifestyle Properties (ELS) reported solid 2025 results with NOI and FFO growth, driven by its core manufactured housing communities. While forecasting further growth for 2026, management acknowledged ongoing fluctuations in its seasonal RV business and provided detailed guidance.
In its Q4 2025 earnings call, CNX Resources outlined a disciplined capital strategy for 2026, emphasizing operational resilience amid severe weather and providing updates on its deep Utica shale program, RNG initiatives, and hedging posture. Management signaled a focus on long-term infrastructure catalysts rather than chasing volatile spot gas prices.
SpaceX is reportedly targeting June 2026 for its long-awaited public market debut, with sources suggesting the timing could be synchronized with a rare planetary alignment and CEO Elon Musk's 55th birthday, as the company seeks capital for its ambitious Mars missions.
Columbia Financial (NASDAQ: CLBK) has announced a definitive agreement to merge with Northfield Bancorp in an all-stock transaction valued at approximately $597 million. The deal, slated to close in early Q3 2026, coincides with Columbia's planned "second-step" conversion to a fully public company, a move executives say will unlock value and create a leading regional bank in the New Jersey-New York metro area.
