7 Signs of a Great Stock- Sales growth over 15%- Rising gross margins- Rising returns on capital- Tech leader in category- Brand leader in category- Many new partnerships- Fanatical CEOHello, Rocket Lab (RKLB). Any others come to mind? ...

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Tariff Impact & Pricing Strategies - Luxury brands experienced price increases of 40-50% during COVID, raising concerns about consumer tolerance for further price hikes due to tariffs [2] - Retailers are employing a two-pronged strategy: reducing promotions and selectively increasing prices on products not directly affected by tariffs [3] Retailer Margins & Promotions - The majority of surveyed companies (approximately 70) are currently promoting less year-over-year, which is helping them maintain gross margins [4] - While some price increases are observed, the primary concern revolves around the potential impact on demand [5] Disruptions in Distribution Channels - Foot Locker's aggressive discounting (e g, 20% off everything in July) is negatively impacting direct-to-consumer (DTC) brands [6] - Foot Locker's promotional activities are creating a ripple effect in the market, potentially harming relationships with brands that also sell directly to consumers at full price [7]

Financial Performance - Apple's June quarter results exceeded expectations, even considering potential pull-forward effects and one-time benefits from discounting in China [2] - Gross margins were strong, and the September quarter guidance was better than expected [2] Tariff Impact - A potential 15% tariff on semiconductor content could create a 200 to 250 basis point headwind to gross margins, potentially impacting EPS by almost 10% [4] - Apple currently has tariff exemptions for most of its main products, but Section 232 tariffs pose an imminent threat [3] AI and M&A Strategy - Apple expressed a commitment to AI and a willingness to do more M&A, which is viewed positively by investors [5] - The market desires more clarity on Apple's AI strategy, specifically regarding building, buying, or partnering [6] - Apple's capital expenditure (capex) is 3.4% of revenue or 4 billion per quarter, up from 2.9% two quarters ago, indicating increased spending [7] - Tim Cook acknowledged openness to M&A, suggesting a willingness to consider various options to advance Apple's AI strategy [8] Market Sentiment - The market is focused on the imminent threat of tariffs [4] - Investors want to see Apple increasing AI investments [6] - Investors appreciate Apple's transparency regarding AI strategy on the earnings call [9]

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