Trump says not necessary to fire Fed Chair Powell, Intel beats on revenue, misses on earnings

Market Overview - Asian markets closed down, influenced by nervousness surrounding the August 1st debt trade deadline [3][4] - European markets are generally subdued, with the UK's Footsie 100 falling from recent record levels [4] - US futures show a more positive outlook, potentially influenced by President Trump's softened stance on the Fed Chair [8][9] Trade and Tariffs - The US and UK are refining a recent trade deal, including a pledge to remove 25% tariffs on UK steel and aluminum, while the rest of the world faces a 50% tariff [4][5] - The European Union believes a deal with the US is within reach, potentially involving a 15% levy, but the 50% levy on steel and aluminum may remain [6] - Volkswagen lowered its financial outlook due to escalating costs from US tariffs, adding $15 billion to costs in the first half of the year [17] - Kia's operating profit in the second quarter slumped by $570 million due to US tariffs, with warnings of a potentially bigger impact in the second half of 2025 [19] Federal Reserve and Interest Rates - President Trump seemed to soften his stance on Fed Chair Jerome Pal after a meeting, which investors took positively [9] - The Fed is expected to keep rates on hold at the next meeting, despite President Trump's desire for rate cuts [9][10] - There are concerns about the Fed's independence, particularly regarding the selection of the next Fed Chair, with potential pressure to cut interest rates [13][14] - The current inflation rate is above the Fed's target of 2%, with potential for it to rise in the coming months [16] Company Specific News - The US regulator approved the $84 billion merger of Paramount and Sky Dance [6] - Puma's shares sank more than 18% after posting a 2% decline in sales for the second quarter to $227 billion, citing the impact of US tariffs [37] - LVMH's shares jumped after analysts suggested the worst is likely over for the luxury group, despite a 4% fall in revenue in the first half to 398 billion euros (approximately $47 billion) [39] - Intel's shares fell after reporting mixed second-quarter results, with revenue of $128 billion beating estimates but announcing a loss of 10 cents per share [41] Investment Strategies - Cyclical stocks are soaring, while defensive stocks are lagging [23] - Defensive sectors now make up only 20% of the S&P 500, while Nvidia and Microsoft alone account for 15% [28][29] - Open Door is presented as a turnaround story rather than a meme stock, with potential for significant gains [51][60]