In The Bullseye: Corporate America's Minnesota Crisis

Group 1: Economic and Market Trends - Gold has surged past $5,000 an ounce for the first time, driven by calls from German economists for repatriation from U.S. vaults [4] - Big Tech earnings are anticipated to test investor confidence in AI spending, with memory becoming a significant focus in the market [3] - The odds of a government shutdown have surged to 80%, which could impact various sectors [8] Group 2: Corporate Responses and Challenges - Major Minnesota-based companies, including 3M, Best Buy, General Mills, U.S. Bancorp, and UnitedHealth, are advocating for calm and collaboration among officials following recent incidents in the Twin Cities [5] - Target has faced backlash over detentions occurring on its property, with employees expressing dissatisfaction towards the company's leadership for perceived inaction [6] - The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce has highlighted the disruption and tragic loss of life due to recent challenges, urging for immediate de-escalation and real solutions [5] Group 3: Company-Specific Developments - Tesla plans to train Optimus humanoid robots in Texas, indicating a focus on advancing automation technology [7] - Merck has halted M&A talks with cancer drugmaker Revolution, reflecting strategic shifts in the pharmaceutical sector [7] - Vanguard's client assets outside the U.S. have surpassed $1 trillion, showcasing significant growth in international investment [8]