US spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are facing their most sustained period of institutional friction this year. This year, the funds have logged six weeks of outflows amid macroeconomic uncertainty that is driving capital toward traditional safe havens. BlackRock, Fidelity Lead Bitcoin ETF Exodus Amid Macro Jitters Since the start of 2026, the funds have bled nearly $4.5 billion, offset by just $1.8 billion of inflows during the first and third weeks of the year, according to data from SosoValu ...

Core Viewpoint - United Parcel Service (UPS) has faced significant challenges in recent years, including a decline in shipping volume and a strategic reduction in its partnership with Amazon, leading to a substantial drop in stock performance [2][3][4]. Company Performance - UPS went public in 1999, raising nearly $5.5 billion, one of the largest IPOs at that time [1]. - The company has seen a decline in stock value, trading down approximately 30% this year and over 50% in the past five years, contrasting sharply with the broader market performance [3][4]. - A $1,000 investment in UPS five years ago would now be worth only $496, while the S&P 500 index would have nearly doubled that investment [4]. Strategic Decisions - UPS announced a 50% reduction in its partnership with Amazon, which was its largest customer, citing slim margins as the reason for this strategic decision [2][3]. - The company is also navigating macroeconomic challenges and the impact of tariffs, which have further complicated its revenue outlook [3][6]. Dividend Yield - Despite the challenges, UPS offers a high dividend yield of over 7.5%, indicating potential for income generation for investors [4].

Core Viewpoint - Marriott International has reduced its full-year revenue growth and profit forecasts due to a slowdown in travel demand in the US, particularly affecting its lower-cost hotel segments [1][2][5]. Revenue and Profit Forecast - The company now expects 2025 revenue growth of 1.5% to 2.5%, down from a previous guidance of 1.5% to 3.5% [3]. - Profit guidance has been lowered to $9.82 to $10.08 per share, compared to the previous range of $9.85 to $10.08 [3]. Impact of Economic Factors - The slowdown is attributed to "heightened macro-economic uncertainty" and elevated inflation affecting budget-conscious travelers [4][3]. - A significant decline of 17% in bookings from government workers has also impacted lower-cost hotels [2]. Performance by Segment - Luxury hotel brands, including Ritz-Carlton and JW Marriott, experienced a 4.1% increase in room revenue in the US and Canada during the second quarter [7]. - The average room rate for luxury properties was reported at $417, while budget properties averaged $161 [7]. Overall Revenue Growth - Marriott's total revenue rose by 5% to $6.74 billion, driven by upscale properties and international business [8]. - The company did not comment on international tourism trends but noted a pullback in visitors from Canada and Mexico due to trade policy changes [8]. Legislative Impact - The signing of Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill" is seen as a factor that reduced uncertainty in the industry, positively impacting consumer and franchisee confidence [10][11].