Core Insights - Layoffs announced by U.S. employers surged in January, reaching the highest level for the month in 17 years, driven by losses of business contracts and an uncertain economic environment [1] Group 1: Layoff Trends - The number of layoffs in January marked a significant increase compared to previous years, indicating a troubling trend in the labor market [1] - This surge in layoffs reflects broader economic challenges faced by companies, including contract losses and economic uncertainty [1] Group 2: Economic Environment - The uncertain economic environment is contributing to the rise in layoffs, suggesting that companies are adjusting their workforce in response to changing market conditions [1] - The data indicates that businesses are becoming more cautious, potentially leading to further employment challenges in the near future [1]

U.S. utility CMS Energy on Thursday raised its current-year profit forecast on the back of soaring power demand, led by growing residential, commercial and data center growth. ...

Core Insights - U.S. utility Xcel Energy reported a 22% increase in fourth-quarter profit, driven by higher electricity demand from data centers, which helped to offset rising expenses [1] Company Summary - Xcel Energy's fourth-quarter profit rose by 22%, indicating strong financial performance [1] - The increase in profit was primarily attributed to heightened demand for electricity from data centers [1] - Rising expenses were noted, but the demand from data centers effectively mitigated their impact on profitability [1]

Software and data services stocks stabilized on Thursday after a bruising selloff, as investors looked for clues on whether fast-advancing artificial intelligence tools are starting to dent demand for traditional software and subscription businesses. ...

ConocoPhillips missed Wall Street estimates for fourth-quarter profit on Thursday, as lower crude prices countered a rise in oil production and cost-saving efforts. ...

Core Viewpoint - Volkswagen has surpassed Tesla in sales of fully-electric cars in Europe in 2025, marking a significant shift in the electric vehicle market dynamics [1] Group 1: Sales Performance - Volkswagen's sales of fully-electric cars in Europe have outpaced those of Tesla, indicating a growing competitive landscape in the electric vehicle sector [1] - This development follows BYD's earlier achievement of overtaking Tesla as the world's largest electric vehicle manufacturer, highlighting the increasing competition from Chinese automakers [1]

Core Viewpoint - Bristol Myers Squibb has projected its 2026 results to exceed Wall Street estimates, attributing this positive outlook to anticipated revenue growth driven by price reductions for its blood thinner, Eliquis [1] Group 1 - The company forecasts that the price cuts for Eliquis will contribute to an increase in revenue [1]

Core Viewpoint - Thomson Reuters reported higher fourth quarter revenue, driven by strong performance in its legal, tax, accounting, and corporate sectors, amidst investor concerns regarding the impact of artificial intelligence companies entering its key markets [1] Group 1: Financial Performance - The company experienced an increase in fourth quarter revenue, indicating positive growth in its business segments [1] - The growth was particularly supported by results from its legal, tax, and accounting businesses, highlighting the strength of these sectors [1] Group 2: Market Dynamics - Investors are currently weighing the implications of artificial intelligence companies moving into Thomson Reuters' key markets, suggesting potential competitive pressures [1]

Core Insights - Spotify is expanding its business model by entering the physical book market through a partnership with Bookshop.org, which is a significant move beyond its existing audiobooks segment [1] Group 1 - The partnership with Bookshop.org will allow Spotify to sell physical books on its streaming platform, indicating a diversification of its product offerings [1]

Tapestry raised its annual earnings targets on Thursday for a second time after strong demand for its Tabby handbags helped the affordable luxury retailer comfortably beat holiday-quarter estimates. ...