Markets

AI-Linked Layoffs Don’t Guarantee a Stock Rally: What Investors Should Watch

Companies are framing job cuts as AI-driven efficiency plays, but history shows mixed stock reactions. Near-term earnings charges, uncertain productivity gains, and a higher-rate backdrop complicate the market read-through.

May 23, 2026 | 118

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Investors Home In on ‘HALO’ Stocks as a New ETF Targets Businesses AI Can’t Replace

A newly launched ETF packages exposure to so‑called HALO stocks—companies whose products and services hinge on human labor and in‑person experiences—offering investors a way to balance AI winners with businesses less vulnerable to automation.

May 23, 2026 | 118

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Berkshire’s New CEO Greg Abel Orchestrates Major Portfolio Shake-Up

Greg Abel’s first quarter as Berkshire Hathaway CEO brought one of the company’s largest portfolio revamps in years, exiting multiple positions and resetting strategy under new leadership.

May 23, 2026 | 118

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Asia-Pacific stocks slip as Iran tensions revive oil supply risk

Asia-Pacific markets retreated after a renewed geopolitical warning toward Iran rekindled oil supply concerns, pressuring risk assets and boosting energy volatility across the region.

May 23, 2026 | 122

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U.S. Futures Mark Time as Investors Await Nvidia Earnings and Fresh Inflation Signals

Wall Street stock futures were little changed as investors braced for Nvidia’s earnings and monitored inflation dynamics that could shape the Fed’s next rate steps.

May 23, 2026 | 126

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Asia stocks open higher as oil cools after U.S. strike delay on Iran

Equities across Asia-Pacific started Tuesday in positive territory, tracking softer oil prices after the U.S. postponed a planned military strike on Iran. Investors parsed the move’s implications for inflation, rates and sector positioning.

May 23, 2026 | 119

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Japan’s Q1 GDP Expands at 2.1% Annualized Pace, Topping Forecasts and Reframing Market Expectations

Japan’s economy grew at a 2.1% annualized rate in Q1, well above a 0.4% consensus and up from 0.3% in Q4, reshaping debate on policy, the yen and sector positioning.

May 23, 2026 | 118

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SEC said to ready framework for trading crypto representations of stocks

The U.S. SEC is preparing a plan that could permit trading of crypto-based versions of publicly listed stocks on regulated venues, signaling a shift from case-by-case enforcement to clearer rulemaking for tokenized securities.

May 23, 2026 | 127

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Standard Chartered sets 2028 profitability goal, to streamline corporate roles by 15% by 2030

Standard Chartered outlined a multi‑year plan to lift returns by 2028 and reduce corporate roles by 15% by 2030, signaling a leaner operating model as global banks adjust to shifting rates, inflation, and post‑pandemic demand.

May 23, 2026 | 124

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