Group 1 - Companies such as Bristol-Myers Squibb, GSK, and Merck are set to avoid potential U.S. tariffs [1]

An advance tally indicates sales rose 1.2%, following declines the previous two months, hinting at a recovery in household consumption heading into the holiday season. ...

Focus will center on a smattering of U.S. data releases, particularly GDP, as investors gauge the performance of the U.S. economy. ...

The needles are pointing to a more cautious consumer this year. ...

Core Viewpoint - Krispy Kreme has entered into an agreement to divest its operations in Japan to Unison Capital for approximately $65 million, which will be utilized to reduce the company's debt burden [1] Group 1 - The sale of Krispy Kreme's Japan operations is part of a strategic move to manage its financial obligations [1] - The cash proceeds from the transaction amount to about $65 million, indicating a significant financial maneuver for the company [1] - The decision to sell reflects Krispy Kreme's ongoing efforts to streamline operations and focus on core markets [1]

Eurozone consumer sentiment unexpectedly weakened in December despite cooling inflation and economic resilience against tariffs, a monthly indicator showed. ...

Core Insights - The Conference Board's Employment Trends Index has declined to 105.80, indicating a potential slowdown in hiring activity [1] - The increase in the unemployment rate has raised further concerns regarding employment trends [1] Employment Trends - The Employment Trends Index reflects a joint number for both months, suggesting a consistent downward trend in employment indicators [1] - The decline in the index may signal challenges for companies in maintaining or increasing their workforce [1]

Group 1 - The University of Michigan's monthly survey's headline index increased to 52.9 this month, up from 51 in November [1]

Sales hit their highest level since February, after lower mortgage rates injected some fresh momentum into the long sluggish housing market. ...

Core Insights - Lamb Weston reported a profit in its latest quarter, indicating a positive shift in financial performance as revenue increased [1] Financial Performance - The company experienced a rise in revenue, contributing to its profitability in the recent quarter [1]