Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA trimmed its position in Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG - Free Report) by 22.1% in the 4th quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 620,461 shares of the information services provider's stock after selling 176,007 shares during the period. Alphabet makes up approximately 2.9% of Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA's holdings, making the stock its 9th biggest holding. Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA's holdings in Alphabet were worth $194,701,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Get Alphabet alerts: Sign Up Several other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Imprint Wealth LLC acquired a new position in shares of Alphabet in the third quarter valued at about $31,000. Manning & Napier Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in Alphabet during the third quarter worth $32,000. Tripletail Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Alphabet during the 3rd quarter valued at about $40,000. University of Illinois Foundation acquired a new stake in Alphabet in the second quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Finally, Retirement Wealth Solutions LLC increased its holdings in Alphabet by 145.0% in the 3rd quarter. Retirement Wealth Solutions LLC now owns 196 shares of the information services provider's stock worth $48,000 after acquiring an additional 116 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 27.26% of the company's stock. More Alphabet News Here are the key news stories impacting Alphabet this week: Positive Sentiment: DeepMind hires Bridgewater’s chief scientist Jasjeet Sekhon — a high‑profile talent win that strengthens Alphabet’s AI research and commercial credentials versus rivals. Read More. DeepMind hires Bridgewater’s chief scientist Jasjeet Sekhon — a high‑profile talent win that strengthens Alphabet’s AI research and commercial credentials versus rivals. Read Mo...

Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA boosted its holdings in Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:META - Free Report) by 50.4% during the fourth quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 307,671 shares of the social networking company's stock after acquiring an additional 103,097 shares during the period. Meta Platforms accounts for about 3.0% of Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA's portfolio, making the stock its 7th largest holding. Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA's holdings in Meta Platforms were worth $203,133,000 at the end of the most recent quarter. Several other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in META. Brighton Jones LLC increased its position in shares of Meta Platforms by 1.7% during the fourth quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 34,551 shares of the social networking company's stock valued at $20,230,000 after acquiring an additional 570 shares during the last quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC raised its position in Meta Platforms by 10.2% in the fourth quarter. Revolve Wealth Partners LLC now owns 9,456 shares of the social networking company's stock valued at $5,537,000 after purchasing an additional 875 shares during the period. Headwater Capital Co Ltd boosted its position in shares of Meta Platforms by 294.7% during the first quarter. Headwater Capital Co Ltd now owns 150,000 shares of the social networking company's stock worth $86,454,000 after buying an additional 112,000 shares during the period. Dymon Asia Capital Singapore PTE. LTD. acquired a new stake in shares of Meta Platforms in the second quarter valued at $213,000. Finally, Capital & Planning LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Meta Platforms in the 2nd quarter valued at $322,000. 79.91% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Meta Platforms alerts: Sign Up Insider Buying and Selling In other Meta Platforms news, Director Robert M. Kimmitt sold 580 shares of the firm's stock in a transaction t...

Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA trimmed its holdings in Oracle Corporation (NYSE:ORCL - Free Report) by 46.3% in the 4th quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 158,700 shares of the enterprise software provider's stock after selling 136,965 shares during the quarter. Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA's holdings in Oracle were worth $30,932,000 as of its most recent SEC filing. A number of other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in ORCL. Norges Bank bought a new stake in Oracle in the 2nd quarter valued at $4,275,378,000. Jennison Associates LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Oracle by 2,062.4% during the 3rd quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 9,227,252 shares of the enterprise software provider's stock valued at $2,595,072,000 after purchasing an additional 8,800,546 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its position in shares of Oracle by 2.8% during the third quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 168,960,500 shares of the enterprise software provider's stock valued at $47,518,451,000 after purchasing an additional 4,681,626 shares in the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Oracle by 333.7% in the third quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 5,238,006 shares of the enterprise software provider's stock worth $1,473,137,000 after purchasing an additional 4,030,382 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Invesco Ltd. increased its holdings in shares of Oracle by 42.1% in the second quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 8,839,166 shares of the enterprise software provider's stock worth $1,932,507,000 after purchasing an additional 2,619,722 shares during the last quarter. 42.44% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors. Get Oracle alerts: Sign Up Analysts Set New Price Targets A number of brokerages recently commented on ORCL. Oppenheimer increased their price targe...

Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA lifted its stake in shares of Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:TSLA - Free Report) by 14.0% during the 4th quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 11,392 shares of the electric vehicle producer's stock after purchasing an additional 1,400 shares during the quarter. Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA's holdings in Tesla were worth $4,714,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. A number of other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Norges Bank bought a new position in shares of Tesla in the 2nd quarter valued at $11,839,824,000. Holocene Advisors LP grew its position in Tesla by 132.2% during the 3rd quarter. Holocene Advisors LP now owns 6,157,000 shares of the electric vehicle producer's stock worth $2,738,141,000 after acquiring an additional 3,505,000 shares during the last quarter. Amundi grew its position in Tesla by 20.4% during the 2nd quarter. Amundi now owns 20,194,152 shares of the electric vehicle producer's stock worth $6,374,284,000 after acquiring an additional 3,422,270 shares during the last quarter. Jennison Associates LLC increased its holdings in Tesla by 38.3% in the 3rd quarter. Jennison Associates LLC now owns 10,909,666 shares of the electric vehicle producer's stock worth $4,851,747,000 after purchasing an additional 3,021,550 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Capital World Investors raised its position in Tesla by 5.8% in the third quarter. Capital World Investors now owns 44,035,949 shares of the electric vehicle producer's stock valued at $19,583,547,000 after purchasing an additional 2,403,019 shares during the last quarter. 66.20% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds. Get Tesla alerts: Sign Up Trending Headlines about Tesla Here are the key news stories impacting Tesla this week: Positive Sentiment: US government-confirmed supply deal: Reut...

Union Bancaire Privee UBP SA Buys 1,400 Shares of Tesla, Inc. $TSLA MarketBeat

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Chair C.C. Wei (魏哲家) said Saturday Chinese robots were fun to look at but were basically useless. Wei made the remarks while accepting an honorary doctorate degree at Asia University in Taichung, per CNA . He was referring to recent shows put on in China featuring groups of dancing robots. Wei added that the important part was to give the robots brains. Companies like Nvidia, AMD, and other US firms were building those brains, with 95% of the brain parts manufactured by TSMC, he said. The company’s technology had increased 100-fold over the past 20 years, according to Wei. Helping the development of AI would be useful for healthcare, while TSMC technology would make robots discover rays of light, feel temperatures, collect information, and provide other useful services, he said. Reacting to his new degree, Wei praised TSMC founder Morris Chang (張忠謀) for laying the company’s foundation, and for selecting and trusting him. He said he had not contributed much to the company’s success. Under Wei’s leadership, the semiconductor maker has been rapidly expanding, building or opening new fabs in Japan, the US state of Arizona, and Germany.

On Feb. 25, 2026, Jennifer Simons, Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer, and Secretary at Oceaneering International (OII 0.31%), reported the sale of 10,284 shares of common stock for a transaction value of approximately $401,000, as disclosed in the SEC Form 4 filing. Transaction summary Metric Value Shares sold 10,284 Shares withheld 6,673 Transaction value $400,665 Post-transaction shares 35,387 Post-transaction value $1.34 million Key questions How does the scale of this transaction compare to Simons’ prior activity? This sale involved 22.5% of her total holdings, a smaller proportion than the 39% sold in her previous January 2026 transaction, aligning with the declining available share base. This sale involved 22.5% of her total holdings, a smaller proportion than the 39% sold in her previous January 2026 transaction, aligning with the declining available share base. Did the transaction impact indirect or derivative holdings? No, the transaction solely affected directly held common stock; Simons retains no indirect or derivative positions in the company post-trade. No, the transaction solely affected directly held common stock; Simons retains no indirect or derivative positions in the company post-trade. How has Simons' ownership profile changed following this transaction? Direct common stock holdings declined to 35,387 shares (down from 74,826 prior to January 2026), maintaining continued insider exposure but at a reduced level in line with recent administrative sales cadence. Company overview Metric Value Revenue (TTM) $2.78 billion Net income (TTM) $353.76 million Employees 11,100 1-year price change 70.81% Company snapshot Provides engineered services, remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), subsea robotics, manufactured products, and digital solutions for the offshore energy, defense, aerospace, and industrial sectors. Generates revenue through project-based contracts, equipment sales, maintenance services, and recurring software and analytics solutions, ...

Key Points Taiwan Semiconductor has 70% market share in global processor manufacturing. Alphabet has 750 million monthly Gemini users and recently landed a major AI deal with Apple. 10 stocks we like better than Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing › There have been some big cryptocurrency winners over the past three years, with Bitcoin and XRP being two stand-outs with their gains of nearly 200% and 320%, respectively. But the crypto market has been very volatile recently, as investors have sought safer investments amid the Iran conflict, tariff threats, and the disruption of many companies by artificial intelligence (AI). If you're interested in investing in technology but don't want the inherent volatility that comes with owning cryptocurrencies, here are two great tech stocks that have great long-term potential for gains. Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue » Not all AI leaders are overpriced There's a lot of debate over whether AI stocks are in a bubble, as the value of many tech stocks has soared over the past few years. But while some companies are likely overvalued, many are increasing sales and earnings quickly -- and Taiwan Semiconductor(NYSE: TSM) is a great example of the latter. Taiwan Semiconductor, also called TSMC, is the leading processor manufacturer with 70% global market share. In the fourth quarter, its sales rose 26% to $33.7 billion, and its earnings popped 35% to $3.14 per American depositary receipt. TSMC benefits from its dominant position in AI processor manufacturing, and management estimates more growth this year, with sales expected to increase 30% in 2026 compared to last year. One thing that's helping TSMC grow at such a steady pace is the company's semiconductor manufacturing know-how, which has enabled it to stay ahead of Samsung and Intel. While other com...

美国官员当地时间3月20日表示，美军正向中东增派3艘军舰及约2500名海军陆战队员。此前有美方知情人士称，增兵将为美国总统特朗普提供更多军事选项，包括发起“打通”霍尔木兹海峡的行动，这需要向伊朗海岸线出动空中和海上力量。据知情人士披露，特朗普政府也在考虑向伊朗石油出口“命脉”哈尔克岛出动地面部队，这一方案旨在夺岛，以此作为筹码，逼迫伊朗恢复霍尔木兹海峡通行。哈尔克岛位于波斯湾西北部，距离伊朗海岸20多公里，是伊朗最大原油出口基地，伊朗约90%的石油都从这里出口。 (央视新闻)

Morsa Images/DigitalVision via Getty Images Owning an equity REIT, like Digital Realty Trust ( DLR ), could be lucrative to many investors who want to have exposure to the real estate market but do not want to commit to owning a property directly. It is even more lucrative, when the REIT is active in the data center space, which is currently experiencing significant secular tailwinds due to the huge CAPEX spending on AI infrastructure buildout. Last, but not least, DLR's steadily growing dividends over the past two decades could also be attractive for income-focused investors, especially as the firm's income stream is relatively independent from consumer sentiment, meaning that the dividends are not likely to be in danger, even if people stop spending on discretionary goods. Like with every investment, an investment in DLR also comes with risks. First, DLR is heavily reliant on debt, meaning that if the interest rates were to stay elevated for longer, their cost of capital could also increase, putting downward pressure on the bottom line results. Also, the price we pay for the stock, significantly impacts our return potential for the future. I believe now DLR is not valued attractively enough to start a new position or to add to an existing one, based on a dividend discount model. I started covering DLR in August 2023, with my last article having been published over a year ago in February 2025. Each time I wrote about the firm, valuation was raising concerns, despite the attractiveness of the business as a whole. 1. DLR is an attractive data center REIT DLR is an attractive REIT right now as the demand for their property is strong, driven by the AI infrastructure build out ambitions. If you want to enter the real estate market, but you do not want to commit to buying a physical property, starting with investing in a REIT could be a viable option. And DLR's presence in the data center space is especially lucrative. They also have a large, diversified portfolio of pro...

AMD’s unreleased Ryzen 9 9950X3D2 officially announced by ASRock VideoCardz.com

格隆汇3月21日｜据华尔街日报，周六，伊朗货币里亚尔大幅上涨，反映出市场押注美国豁免伊朗石油销售将带来外汇流入。在美国财政部决定暂时取消对已在途的伊朗原油的限制后，里亚尔兑美元汇率上涨6.7%，至155.9万。为企业提供伊朗地缘政治咨询的帕克扎德公司董事长穆斯塔法·帕克扎德表示，自战争爆发以来，里亚尔一直在贬值，这是其首次大幅上涨。

Hong Kong police have arrested five people and recovered nearly HK$100 million (US$12.7 million) in gold stolen in a suspected deception case, in which a buyer allegedly worked as an accomplice of a group that seized the haul before fleeing. The incident took place at about 2.45pm on Friday at an office in Peninsula Square on Sung On Street in Hung Hom, where a staff member was conducting a gold handover to an alleged buyer. The South China Morning Post had earlier reported that the case was being treated as “obtaining property by deception” and that three individuals were believed to have fled the scene. Advertisement Police also said a white vehicle intercepted near a toll plaza on North Lantau Highway during initial inquiries was later confirmed to be unrelated. Chief Inspector Alex Yau Yu-sing of the West Kowloon regional crime unit said on Saturday that the “buyer” that day was later found to be part of the group and had entered the premises under the guise of carrying out a legitimate transaction. Advertisement “Due to the client’s request for privacy, other staff members had temporarily left the unit,” Yau said. “During the handover, several individuals entered the unit and removed the gold.”

格隆汇3月21日｜今天（3月21日），伊朗伊斯兰革命卫队发布公告表示，在“真实承诺4”第71波打击行动中，伊朗向以色列特拉维夫以及里雄莱锡安等多处目标，发射了“伊玛德”导弹、“卡德尔”导弹并出动了自杀式无人机。此外，美军位于科威特的阿里•萨利姆空军基地、位于沙特的苏丹王子空军基地及位于伊拉克的维多利亚基地也在阶梯式消耗战的过程中，数次遭到进攻型无人机和重型导弹的打击。据称，伊朗方面已使用了全新的进攻战术和更现代化的系统。

Key Points Taiwan Semiconductor has 70% market share in global processor manufacturing. Alphabet has 750 million monthly Gemini users and recently landed a major AI deal with Apple. 10 stocks we like better than Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing › There have been some big cryptocurrency winners over the past three years, with Bitcoin and XRP being two stand-outs with their gains of nearly 200% and 320%, respectively. But the crypto market has been very volatile recently, as investors have sought safer investments amid the Iran conflict, tariff threats, and the disruption of many companies by artificial intelligence (AI). If you're interested in investing in technology but don't want the inherent volatility that comes with owning cryptocurrencies, here are two great tech stocks that have great long-term potential for gains. Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue » Not all AI leaders are overpriced There's a lot of debate over whether AI stocks are in a bubble, as the value of many tech stocks has soared over the past few years. But while some companies are likely overvalued, many are increasing sales and earnings quickly -- and Taiwan Semiconductor (NYSE: TSM) is a great example of the latter. Taiwan Semiconductor, also called TSMC, is the leading processor manufacturer with 70%global marketshare. In the fourth quarter, its sales rose 26% to $33.7 billion, and its earnings popped 35% to $3.14 per American depositary receipt. TSMC benefits from its dominant position in AI processor manufacturing, and management estimates more growth this year, with sales expected to increase 30% in 2026 compared to last year. One thing that's helping TSMC grow at such a steady pace is the company's semiconductor manufacturing know-how, which has enabled it to stay ahead of Samsung and Intel. While other comp...

Switzerland Halts Military Exports To US, Citing Iran War Neutrality Switzerland on Friday announced it is halting all military and defense exports to the United States, citing its neutrality, coming as the Iran war reaches the three week mark. "Exports of war materiel to the US cannot currently be authorized," the government said, as quoted in Bloomberg. The statement specifically referenced Washington's "international armed conflict" in the Middle East . Source: screengrab via Johnny Harris/YouTube The announcement might not be a surprise, given similar past stances by Switzerland; however it comes at a sensitive moment where President Trump has been expressing frustration at Europe and NATO for not stepping up to help open the Strait of Hormuz. There were signs of this coming : Last weekend, the Swiss government said it had rejected two US flyover requests on Iran-related war flights but permitted three others, also citing Switzerland’s neutrality law. Following the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, Switzerland imposed bans on flights over Swiss airspace and weapons exports to countries involved in the war. It later lifted them. As for data on past American purchases of Swiss defense items, it's not significant enough to put any kind of dent in Pentagon preparedness, but it remains of a highly symbolic and political snub - at least that's how the White House will likely see it According to figures in Trading Economics : Switzerland Imports from United States of Arms and ammunition, parts and accessories was US$46.18 Million during 2024 , according to the United Nations COMTRADE database on international trade. Switzerland Imports from United States of Arms and ammunition, parts and accessories: But an important distinction is that the move only impacts official defense and military-use items . According to more figures via Tradining Economics: Much skepticism toward Washington and Tel Aviv's Iran adventure has been expressed this week from Europe. Iran "is not our...

Iran launched ballistic missiles at the joint US-UK military base in Diego Garcia on Friday, demonstrating a missile capability that goes beyond what Tehran was known to have possessed. The base, a strategic airfield that can host B-2 stealth bombers located nearly 4,000 miles (6,400 kilometers) away from Iran, suffered no damage, according to a person familiar with the matter speaking on condition of anonymity. The attack was the first time in the three-week-old war that Tehran was reported to have used weapons with a range of more than 2,000 miles. The attack on Friday came hours before Prime Minister Keir Starmer ’s government gave permission to the US to use British bases including Diego Garcia “for specific and limited defensive operations.” Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has criticized the move. US Central Command didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment on the attack, which was first reported by the Wall Street Journal. Without directly referencing Diego Garcia, the UK Ministry of Defence criticized Tehran’s “reckless attacks,” calling them a threat to British interests and British allies. “Nobody, and I mean nobody, even guessed” Iran had missiles with that range, said William Alberque, a Europe-based senior fellow at the Pacific Forum. “It means they probably used a modified missile — maybe a prototype,” indicating Tehran still had storage or workshops that could make the alterations. Iran could have removed weight from an existing missile or even taken off the warhead to extend its range, Alberque said. It could also have been a one-off modified design, he added.

slobo/iStock Unreleased via Getty Images Costco Wholesale ( COST ) has plans to open its first-ever standalone gas station in Mission Viejo, California, in June. The station will be located at a former Bed Bath & Beyond ( BBBY ) and will feature a total of 40 pumps, making it the largest Costco fuel facility to date. Like all Costco ( COST ) gas stations, it will be members-only and is expected to operate daily from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., with no convenience store attached. The retail giant also has a second standalone station in the works for Kalihi, Honolulu. That location is set to open in 2027. For now, the company hasn't announced a broader rollout, but the industry is watching closely. Analysts think the standalone gas station tests are a direct response to the longstanding Costco ( COST ) pain point of overcrowded parking lots and long waits at the pump. It is also seen as serving as an interesting test of Costco ( COST ) member loyalty out in the wild, away from stores. Separately, Costco ( COST ) is also taking measures to expand its fuel network. Notably, gas prices in the U.S. have jumped since late February, pushing the national average to the highest level since a short spike in 2022. The recent rise in gas prices is being driven mainly by a sharp rise in crude oil prices tied to the war involving Iran, which has disrupted exports through the Strait of Hormuz, with seasonal spring demand adding additional upward pressure at the pump. A general list of gas station and convenience store operators includes Shell ( SHEL ), Chevron ( CVX ), Valero ( VLO ), Phillips 66 ( PSX ), Pilot/Flying J, Love’s, Alimentation Couche-Tard's ( ANCTF ) Circle K chain, Murphy USA ( MUSA ), Casey's General Stores ( CASY ), BP's ( BP ) TravelCenters of America, Buc-ees, Seven & I's 7-11 ( SVNDY ) ( SVNDF ), Speedway, Kum & Go, Wawa, Sheetz, QuikTrip, Kwik Trip, and Kroger ( KR )-operated chains like Kwik Shop and Quik Stop. More on Costco Costco: A Likely Outperformer Based On The...

DragonImages/iStock via Getty Images This article serves as an update to my previous analysis of Aveanna Healthcare Holdings ( AVAH ). When I last wrote about the company in July of 2025, I rated its stock as a Hold citing tight margins and potential challenges ahead from government payment for healthcare services. Fast forward to today and AVAH has gained a whopping 60.6% in the last seven and a half months since that article was published on Seeking Alpha. The source for most of these gains in the stock came after a quarterly report on August 7 buoyed AVAH over 50% in the next two trading days. On August 11, the company's rating was bumped up to Outperform by Raymond James . On September 11, it earned an upgrade from Underweight to Neutral from JP Morgan . Aveanna Healthcare has experienced a very different market reaction to its Q4 2025 results , which were released on March 19. Its stock fell over 10% on the news even though the company reported GAAP earnings from the quarter of $0.80 per share, $0.65 better than expectations. The drag on the stock price came from the company’s projections for next year that included a disappointing revenue outlook . A graph that shows the performance of AVAH over the last 12 months is shown below. Seeking Alpha What should be made from the last year’s roller coaster ride for AVAH? Did the market overreact when the stock rose significantly in August and September? Or are potential buyers being too pessimistic now? When everything is put together over the last 12 months, Aveanna Healthcare ended up with a total return that was just a few percentage points ahead of the S&P 500, once dividends are included. Based on the most recent financial data available for the company, I am a now more optimistic for AVAH's future than I was last July. Aveanna Healthcare has made some noticeable improvements in its overall profitability, and it is growing in healthcare markets that are likely to continue to see high demand in the year ahead. At ...

matdesign24/iStock via Getty Images Introduction I remember when I first started reading Seeking Alpha years ago, Business Development Companies ( BIZD ) saw little coverage as many viewed them as riskier investments. I often heard that many were attractive for income-focused investors but often weren't considered ideal long-term investments. I never agreed with this sentiment and thought that high-quality BDCs like Main Street Capital ( MAIN ) and Ares Capital ( ARCC ) were perfect examples of how BDCs can be long-term portfolio holdings. Both have solid track records over the long term. Not to mention MAIN has never reduced its dividend, impressive considering they went public during the Great Financial Crisis. Although ARCC was forced to cut, they have been consistent ever since, and have been increasing its size & scale advantages along the way. I've grown cautious on the sector in the past year or so and see more headwinds in the near to medium-term. In this article, I discuss 2 huge mistakes I see investors often overlook and which BDCs I currently find attractive for those in search of income. Mistake #1: Overlooking The Economy Strength I don't want to make this article too long, so I'll dive right into things. Looking at American headlines, you'd think the economy is doing well. While our economy has shown resilience in recent years, interest rate hikes have impacted consumers. Yes, people are still shopping, as evidenced by the record set last year, with this exceeding $1 trillion. But from my perspective, consumers are still struggling. This is because if you look at credit card statistics, inflation has seemingly impacted consumers. Many are having to rely on credit cards more than ever before, as credit card debt rose 38% pre-pandemic to $1.277 trillion. This rose from $1.233 trillion in the third quarter. Looking at businesses, Blue Chip companies have also struggled as a result. An example is PepsiCo ( PEP ), a company that has been paying dividends f...

DogoraSun/iStock via Getty Images Introduction Big Tech/growth stocks have beaten value stocks and the broader market for roughly a full decade. That’s something I have mentioned in so many articles in recent months that I’ll promise you this article isn’t about the rotation. However, I still need to bring this up for a very specific reason. The chart below shows the ratio between the S&P 500 Growth ETF ( IVW ) and the S&P 500 Value ETF ( IVE ). A rising chart means outperformance of growth stocks. A declining line means that value stocks are performing better. TradingView (IVW/IVE Total Return Ratio) Between 2000 and 2007, value stocks outperformed, as the Dot-com bubble hurt growth stocks, and economic growth, in general, was strong and fueled by factors like China becoming a global player. Between 2009 and 2015, growth and value showed similar returns, as the U.S. economy recovered from the Great Financial Crisis, which fueled value/cyclical stocks, while growth stocks benefited from the early tailwinds in areas like software, cloud computing, global connectivity, and things like that. In hindsight, these were truly terrific years. Unfortunately, that ended in 2015. Since then, growth stocks have been the much better bet, although there have been periods of value outperformance, like in 2022. But in general, over the past ten years, growth stocks have basically been the only game in town. There are two reasons for that. However, before I give you these reasons, I need to warn you that I am painting with a very broad brush here. Economic growth over the past ten years was very uneven, as recoveries in cyclical areas like manufacturing and transportation were often cut short. Because of this and secular growth in tech areas from cloud computing, connectivity, and AI after 2022, tech was the place to be for many - and rightfully so. To support my first point, I am using the chart below, which shows the leading ISM Manufacturing Index. A value above 50 means manufact...

I’ve been testing out Gemini’s new task automation on the Pixel 10 Pro and the Galaxy S26 Ultra, which for the first time lets Gemini take the wheel and use apps for you. It’s limited to a small subset right now — a handful of food delivery and rideshare services — and it’s still in beta. It’s slow, it’s clunky at times, and it doesn’t solve any serious problem you had using your phone. But it’s impressive as hell, and I don’t think it’s hyperbole to say this is a glimpse of the future. We’re still a long way off, but this is the first time I’ve seen a true AI assistant actually working on a phone — not in a keynote presentation or a carefully controlled demo inside a convention hall. First off: Gemini is much slower than you, or me, or most anyone at using their phone. If you need to order an Uber right this second, you’re still the best person for the job. Before you write it off, though, remember that task automation is designed to run in the background while you do other things on your phone. Even better, it keeps working while you’re not looking at your phone, so you can do things like check that your passport is in your bag for the 10th time. But if you’re curious, like I am, you can watch the whole thing happen. While it’s working, text appears at the bottom of the screen indicating what Gemini is doing. Stuff like “Selecting a second portion of Chicken Teriyaki for the combo,” which it did when I directed it to order my dinner on Saturday night. Watching Gemini figure things out on the fly honestly kinda rules. I asked for a chicken combo plate; the menu presented options in half- portion increments, so it correctly added two half servings of chicken. Gemini figured out that two half portions would equal one order of chicken teriyaki. Gemini had more trouble finding the side of greens featured right in the middle of the screen here. It’s for the best that when you start an automation with Gemini, the default behavior is for it to run in the background. You h...

Valuations have come way down for software stocks — but just how cheap they really are depends on your view of a sizable hidden expense.

A bulletproof U.S. economy has shot past a series of shocks since the 2020 pandemic and grown for five straight years, but soaring oil prices tied to the Iran war have emerged as a potential trigger for recession.

If you're a dividend investor, you've probably at least heard of the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (SCHD 0.65%) if you aren't already an investor in it. It's currently the 2nd largest dividend exchange-traded fund (ETF) in the world with more than $83 billion in assets, behind only the Vanguard Dividend Appreciation ETF. Its strategy, which considers balance sheet quality, dividend history, and yield, has delivered strong results since its 2011 launch. It's currently one of the best-performing dividend ETFs of 2026. With the current boom in leveraged and ultra-high yield products in the ETF marketplace, it shouldn't be a surprise that this fund has become a target. Earlier this month, YieldMax launched the YieldMax U.S. Stocks Target Double Distribution ETF (DDDD 0.78%). Its objective is to deliver twice the annual distribution yield of the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF. How does the 2x Yield SCHD ETF work? At its core, the YieldMax U.S. Stocks Target Double Distribution ETF is an option income strategy. This is usually the case for any product that aims to magnify the yield of an equity basket. In this fund's case, it plans to hold the components of the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF while simultaneously writing options on a select subset of the fund's holdings to generate additional premium income. The option strategies used could vary over time but are expected to be optimized to current market volatility conditions. In my opinion, this is the correct way to structure the YieldMax fund. Many funds will use synthetic products, such as options or swaps contracts, to mimic long exposure. Owning the Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF itself along with its component holdings provides direct exposure to the underlying security. Using synthetic positions can subject holdings to imprecise correlation and the added cost of layering and managing these trades. Expand NYSEMKT : DDDD Tidal Trust II - YieldMax U.s. Stocks Target Double Distribution ETF Today's Change ( -0.78...

We'll be joined by the Communities Secretary, Steve Reed, to talk about it on Sunday. But the hope in government is that getting cash out of Whitehall to tiny local projects, playgrounds, community pubs, or other ideas that people come up with, can make a political impact, despite all the turmoil. The government source said: "We are trying to do very visible change so people say 'Ah OK, there is a government out there that actually has its hands on the wheel, despite almost perma-crisis around the world'."

hapabapa/iStock Editorial via Getty Images Thesis SouthState Bank Corporation ( SSB ) is a growing regional bank that has demonstrated strong return metrics and sound balance sheet management, but mixed credit quality. The bank will likely continue to deliver solid performance in portfolios where it stands as a core position; however, the current macroeconomic environment and valuation of SSB make it a less than ideal time to enter into new positions in this regional bank. Consequently, I am issuing a hold rating on SSB. Company Profile SouthState Bank Corporation is headquartered in Winter Haven, FL, and provides financial services through its flagship subsidiary, SouthState Bank. The firm offers consumer, commercial, mortgage, and wealth management banking services. SouthState Bank operates in nine states, including Florida, Texas, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Colorado, Alabama, Virginia, and Tennessee. As of December 31, 2025, the company holds roughly $67 billion in assets and $55 billion in deposits. SouthState Bank Corporation Investor Relations Return Metrics SSB has demonstrated above-average return metrics over the prior eight quarters, providing evidence that the firm’s strategy of organic expansion in high-growth markets is working. Return on Tangible Common Equity (ROTCE) is one of the most common return metrics in banking. This metric shows the bank’s net income relative to its average tangible common equity. Tangible common equity removes intangible assets like goodwill, which can heavily distort return metrics. Over the prior eight quarters, SSB has generated ROTCE in the double digits (note the dip in Q1, 2025 was a result of the acquisition of Independent Bank Group). Additionally, the bank’s ROTCE remains north of the peer median of 15% as of Q4, 2025. Quarterly filings Quarterly Filings Net Interest Income (NII), arguably the most important return metric for a bank, measures the difference between the interest the bank receives on its ...

格隆汇3月21日｜据央视财经，苹果公司首席执行官蒂姆·库克3月21日现身北京朝阳某艺术空间，观看了解人工智能等数字化技术在壁画复原等传统文化保护和传承方面的最新应用。库克表示：“现在是一个非常令人兴奋的时代，一切都在飞速变化，而在中国，变化尤其快。我认为，人工智能是你我这一生中最具深远意义的事物之一。在我们看来，人工智能是对人能力的放大，而不是对人的取代。”“我认为大家应该放下恐惧，先在日常生活中开始使用它，去思考它能如何帮到你、如何让你更高效、如何帮你分担一部分手头的工作。我们每个人的生活都需要更多快乐，而有些我们正在做的事，并不能带来快乐，或许人工智能可以帮我们把这些事分担下来。”

Key Points Every $1 increase in the average oil price can boost Chevron's annualized earnings by $600 million. ConocoPhillips is on track to double its free cash flow by 2029 at $70 oil. Canadian Natural Resources has grown its dividend for 26 straight years. 10 stocks we like better than ConocoPhillips › Oil prices have been very volatile since Israel and the U.S. launched military strikes against Iran about three weeks ago. Crude has surged on news of attacks against oil tankers in the Persian Gulf and energy infrastructure in the region. Meanwhile, it has fallen on days when there are positive reports about potential strategies to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to tanker traffic and other moves to improve global oil supplies. Crude oil could continue to bounce around until there's a long-term solution on Iran. I'm not worried either way. Here's why. Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue » I have ample upside to higher oil prices I own a trio of oil stocks: Chevron (NYSE: CVX), Canadian Natural Resources (NYSE: CNQ), and ConocoPhillips (NYSE: COP). I've owned ConocoPhillips for nearly two decades, while Chevron and Canadian Natural Resources are more recent additions. All three oil companies provide my portfolio with upside to higher crude prices. For example, a $1 increase in the average oil price can boost Chevron's annualized earnings and cash flow by $600 million. Meanwhile, a $1 increase in oil prices can raise ConocoPhillips' annualized earnings by more than $100 million. With crude prices currently up around $40 a barrel this year, these oil companies can generate significantly more cash flow. That will give them more money to return to shareholders via dividends and buybacks. The higher total returns these oil stocks can generate when crude prices are rising can help offset some of ...