Fed expected to cut rates, President Trump's state visit to the UK

Federal Reserve and Interest Rates - The Federal Reserve is expected to implement its first rate cut of 2025, with traders pricing in a 96% chance of a 25 basis point reduction [2][3] - The Fed's dot plot, which shows officials' predictions about interest rates, will provide insights into future cuts [2] - Current economic conditions include a weak job market and persistent inflation, raising questions about the sustainability of further rate cuts [2][5] China and Nvidia - China's internet regulator has instructed major tech firms to cease purchasing Nvidia's AI chips and to cancel existing orders, aiming to bolster its domestic chip industry [9][10] - This ban extends beyond previous guidance and is part of China's strategy to compete with US technology [9][10] - Nvidia faces additional challenges in China, including an antitrust probe and increasing pressure from local competitors [48][51] UK-US Tech Pact - The UK and US have signed a tech prosperity deal valued at approximately $42 billion during President Trump's state visit, with significant investments from major tech companies [13][16] - Microsoft plans to invest around $30 billion in cloud and AI infrastructure in the UK, while Google has committed nearly $7 billion for a new data center and AI research [13] - British pharmaceutical firm GSK will invest $30 billion in US research and development over five years, indicating reciprocal investment commitments [13][16] IPO Market - Online ticket platform StubHub has priced its IPO at $2.35 billion, valuing the firm at $8.6 billion, marking a rebound in the IPO market after a period of stagnation [11][12] - The IPO market has seen increased activity recently, attributed to a recovery from high inflation and rising interest rates [11][12] General Mills Earnings - General Mills reported adjusted earnings per share of 86 cents, exceeding market expectations of 82 cents, with net sales of $4.52 billion in line with forecasts [41] - The company is facing challenges due to inflation, which is pushing consumers towards cheaper products and healthier options [41] Workday and Figure - Workday's stock rose over 9% following an analyst event where it announced plans to acquire AI startup Sana, receiving positive feedback from activist investor Elliot Management [42] - Blockchain lender Figure's stock increased by more than 3% after a successful IPO that raised approximately $790 million [44]