'K-Shaped' US Economy Propped up by 'Three A-Pillars' | Bloomberg Businessweek Daily 11/12/2025

Market Trends & Economic Outlook - The Dow Jones Industrial Average reached a record high, driven by United Health Care and Nike [5] - Treasury yields are slightly lower, with the 10-year yield at 406% and the 2-year at 350% [6] - Gold is rallying, up about 2% at $4,208 per ounce, while oil is slipping, with WTI crude down more than 4% and Brent crude off nearly 4% due to oversupply concerns [6] - The U S economy is described as "just okay" and "squishy," with recession considered remote [10] - Consumer spending is concentrated in the top quintiles of earners, and businesses are in "pause mode" regarding hiring [14] - The economy is increasingly dependent on affluent consumers, artificial intelligence field investment, and asset price gains [15] - Deregulation is anticipated, particularly in financial services [18] Company Performance & Strategy - Vista Energy aims to reach $28 billion in 2028, producing 180,000 barrels of oil per day [37] - Vista Energy exports around 60% of its production today, aiming for 75% in 2028 [43] - Cava experienced a slight step down in spend in the District, Maryland, and Virginia markets due to the government shutdown [55] - Cava intends to continue increasing restaurant openings with at least 16% growth in restaurants in 2026, opening at least 68 to 70 restaurants in 2025 [63] - Inspire Medical Systems sees GLP-1 drugs as an opportunity, as weight loss can make some patients eligible for their device [94] - Inspire Medical Systems is covered by all insurance companies, with over 300 million covered lives in the United States [111] Industry Specifics - OPEC says global oil supply will match demand next year, shifting from earlier projections of a supply deficit [7] - Argentina's shale industry could benefit from deregulation and access to capital markets [38][39] - Tariffs had about a 20 basis point impact on Cava's food, beverage, and packaging costs in the quarter, expected to continue into 2026 [70] - Delta Airlines expects a return to normal during the Thanksgiving holiday after mandated flight cuts [116]