The head of India’s biggest quick commerce player says the sector is hurtling toward a shakeout as rivals’ cash dries up, but that his startup will thrive — and continue its expansion.A model that has so far relied on relentless fundraising is nearing its limits and companies will soon have to decide how long they can keep absorbing steep losses, Blinkit Chief Executive Officer Albinder Dhindsa said in an interview.Global investors including SoftBank Group Corp., Temasek Holdings Pte. and Middle Eastern sov ...

Core Insights - IKEA U.S. is launching its first cross-brand retail experience in select Best Buy stores, aiming to enhance customer experience by making it more affordable and accessible [1][2] - The new IKEA at Best Buy experience will be available in select markets in Texas and Florida, featuring immersive planning spaces for kitchens and laundry rooms [2][3] Company Collaboration - The partnership between IKEA and Best Buy is designed to bring together design, functionality, and affordability, allowing customers to shop IKEA products through another retailer for the first time in the U.S. [4] - Both companies are committed to providing a unique shopping experience that combines home furnishing solutions with cutting-edge appliances [5] Store Locations and Launch Events - The shared retail presence is currently live in several Best Buy locations in Florida and Texas, with additional stores set to open on November 14 [3] - To celebrate the launch, exclusive giveaways and remarks from executives will be held at select locations [4] Customer Experience - The shop-in-shop experience will be staffed by IKEA employees who will assist customers in designing their spaces while shopping for appliances [5] - This innovative retail model reflects both companies' dedication to meeting customer needs in a collaborative environment [5]

Company Overview - Whirlpool Corporation (NYSE:WHR) is a manufacturer and seller of home appliances, including refrigerators, laundry machines, dishwashers, and cooking products [2] Financial Performance - The stock has a 4% yield and is currently near its 52-week low [1] - The company has faced challenges with its balance sheet, leading to a dividend cut, which raises concerns about its investment attractiveness [1] Market Position and Competition - Whirlpool is noted as the last major appliance manufacturer still domiciled in the U.S., but it has been negatively impacted by tariffs, contrary to initial expectations [2] - Competitors from South Korea and China have strategically front-loaded their inventory to mitigate the effects of tariffs, putting Whirlpool at a disadvantage [2]

Core Insights - Whirlpool reported Q2 2025 results with ongoing earnings per share (non-GAAP) of $1.34, missing the consensus estimate of $1.68, and revenue of $3,773 million, below the expected $3,846.88 million [1][2] - Both ongoing earnings per share and revenue showed declines compared to Q2 2024, with ongoing earnings per share down 43.9% and revenue down 5.4% year over year [1][2] - Management attributed the quarter's performance to competition from Asian imports and weak consumer demand, while maintaining its full-year outlook [1] Financial Performance - Ongoing earnings per share (non-GAAP) fell from $2.39 in Q2 2024 to $1.34 in Q2 2025, a decrease of 43.9% [2][5] - GAAP net earnings dropped by 70.5% year-over-year, with operating cash flow (GAAP) and free cash flow (non-GAAP) both negative, at ($856 million) for the first half of 2025 compared to ($713 million) in the prior year [2][5][6] - The ongoing EBIT margin remained stable at 5.3%, but net earnings were significantly impacted by a $19 million loss from a Beko Europe equity investment [6] Business Strategy - The company focuses on reshaping its business portfolio, accelerating product innovation, and optimizing costs, including divesting low-margin operations and launching over 100 new products in 2024 [4][7] - The company has exited its European major appliance operations and continues to prioritize portfolio simplification despite legacy costs affecting results [7] - New product launches, such as the KitchenAid induction cooktop and JennAir built-in wall oven, have supported direct-to-consumer sales growth, particularly in small appliances [7] Market Performance - North American major appliance sales declined by 4.7%, with EBIT down 11.7% year-over-year, while Latin America saw a 10.0% sales decline [6] - In Asia, sales fell by 5.9% year-over-year, but profits increased by 11.2% year-over-year, indicating a mixed performance across regions [6] Capital Structure and Outlook - The company refinanced $1.2 billion in term debt at an interest rate of approximately 6.3%, with net debt remaining elevated and cash reserves at $1.07 billion [8] - Management reaffirmed FY2025 guidance for ongoing earnings per share between $6.00 and $8.00, ongoing EBIT margin of approximately 5.7%, and free cash flow guidance set at $400 million for the full year [10] - The company plans to monitor cash flow, debt repayment, and inventory normalization as the year progresses [11]

Core Insights - Whirlpool Corporation (WHR) is facing challenging times due to mixed financial results and significant management changes [1] Company Overview - Whirlpool is a provider of home appliances, including refrigerators, washers, dryers, and cooking appliances [1] Financial Performance - The company has reported mixed financial results, indicating potential volatility in its performance [1]