Anti-Clickbait News Summaries for February 3, 2025
Bill Gates aligns with Nvidia CEO on quantum computing timeline
Hi, it’s Jack and The Signals.Doctor team with your daily news summaries 😇
The Markets:
Futures Highlights
Today’s futures market shows strong gains in energy commodities, while major indices are experiencing declines. Key energy names are surging, even as traditional benchmarks like the Dow and S&P 500 pull back.
🟢 Crude Oil: 74.46 ( +1.93 | +2.66% )
🟢 Natural Gas: 3.3050 ( +0.2610 | +8.57% )
🟢 Gold: 2849.60 ( +14.60 | +0.51% )
🔴 Dow: 44067.00 ( -631.00 | -1.41% )
🔴 S&P 500: 5966.50 ( -100.75 | -1.66% )
🔴 Nasdaq 100: 21179.25 ( -410.00 | -1.90% )
🔴 Russell 2000: 2242.20 ( -53.20 | -2.32% )
Forex & Bonds Overview
In the Forex & Bonds sector, BTC/USD leads with a solid gain, while most major currency pairs and treasuries are either slightly down or almost flat. Investors are keeping an eye on modest movements in traditional bonds amid the crypto rally.
🔴 EUR/USD: 1.0264 ( -0.0093 | -0.90% )
⚪ USD/JPY: 154.67 ( -0.49 | -0.32% )
⚪ GBP/USD: 1.2363 ( -0.0028 | -0.22% )
🟢 BTC/USD: 94584.70 ( +1808.00 | +1.95% )
⚪ 5-Year Treasury: 4.347 ( -0.017 | -0.39% )
🔴 10-Year Treasury: 4.535 ( -0.034 | -0.74% )
🔴 30-Year Treasury: 4.765 ( -0.048 | -1.00% )
Major News Updates
In today’s major stock news, tech and growth names deliver a mixed bag: while several companies post solid gains, others are facing steep losses. The list below is sorted from the strongest performers at the top to the biggest decliners at the bottom.
🟢 GOOGL: ( +1.57% )
🟢 PLTR: ( +1.56% )
🟢 GOOG: ( +1.47% )
🟢 AMZN: ( +1.30% )
🟢 TSLA: ( +1.08% )
🟢 TSM: ( +0.56% )
⚪ SNY: ( +0.35% )
⚪ META: ( +0.32% )
⚪ MSFT: ( +0.02% )
⚪ TSN: ( -0.48% )
🔴 AAPL: ( -0.67% )
🔴 KO: ( -0.89% )
🔴 PFE: ( -1.45% )
🔴 HOOD: ( -1.98% )
🔴 AMD: ( -2.45% )
🔴 NVDA: ( -3.67% )
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Events Affecting The Markets Today & Beyond
Most Impactful News Summaries
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Today:
Below is a detailed overview of key events and developments scheduled exactly for Monday, February 3, 2025, that could influence the US stock market both directly and indirectly.
1. Trade Policy Developments and Tariff Announcements
Tariff Impositions by the Trump Administration
Over the weekend and into today, President Trump’s administration has announced new trade tariffs:
25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico
10% tariffs on imports from China
These tariffs, which are scheduled to take effect on Tuesday, have already rattled futures markets and are causing investors to brace for potential retaliatory measures from affected countries. The new duties are expected to affect various sectors (such as automotive, steel, and technology) by raising input costs and disrupting supply chains. Analysts and economists are debating whether these measures signal a broader escalation in the trade war and what the longer-term impact on US corporate earnings might be. For example, Reuters reported that these tariffs could prompt a reduction in S&P 500 earnings forecasts by 2–3% if sustained, although some market participants believe the measures against Canada and Mexico might be temporary.
2. Earnings Announcements Scheduled for Today
Tyson Foods Q1 2025 Results
Tyson Foods, one of the world’s largest protein companies, released its first-quarter 2025 earnings on February 3. The press release highlighted:
Sales up 2.3% compared to last year
GAAP operating income increased by 151%
Strong performance in the chicken segment and raised fiscal guidance for the full year
These robust results have immediate implications for sector sentiment (particularly in consumer staples and industrials) and may serve as a bellwether for food and agricultural stocks amid broader market volatility.
Other Pre-market Earnings
Several companies are scheduled to report earnings either before the market opens or after the close. Pre-market reports indicate that companies such as IDXX Laboratories, SAIA, Alliance Resource Partners (ARLP), and Twist Bioscience (TWST) are releasing their quarterly numbers. In addition, some sources (e.g., Business Insider and TipRanks calendars) note that companies like Palantir Technologies (PLTR) and NXP Semiconductors (NXPI) are also set to report today. While Tyson Foods is already in the spotlight, the collective set of earnings announcements today adds to market uncertainty—and simultaneously provides opportunities for sector-specific trading based on company performance.
3. Market Structure and Trading Hours: Cboe’s 24x5 Proposal
Cboe Global Markets’ Announcement
A particularly notable event today is the press release from Cboe Global Markets. The company announced plans to launch 24-hour, five-day-a-week trading for U.S. equities on its EDGX Equities Exchange (subject to regulatory approval). Key points include:
Expanded trading hours – moving from the current extended session (starting at 4:00 am ET) to a near-continuous session that would allow investors worldwide to react more immediately to global events.
Potential benefits for liquidity and price discovery in US equities
If approved, this initiative could fundamentally alter market dynamics by providing more continuous trading, which may help dampen volatility from overnight global news and economic data releases.
4. Economic Data Releases and Indicators
US and Global Manufacturing PMI Data
Today’s economic calendar includes the release of several key Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) figures:
US ISM Manufacturing PMI (January): This report is a critical leading indicator of business conditions in the US manufacturing sector and helps gauge overall economic health.
Worldwide Manufacturing PMI data: Global figures will offer additional context on how US growth compares with that of other major economies.
These indicators are vital for setting expectations around GDP growth, inflation, and business sentiment, and can directly affect market positioning and monetary policy outlooks.
5. Broader Political and Market Sentiment Issues
Ongoing Trade Talks and Political Developments
Additional political news reported by sources such as The Guardian highlights ongoing high-stakes discussions—for example, potential trade talks between President Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau regarding tariffs, and internal controversies at agencies like USAid. Although these events are unfolding and may not have immediate quantifiable market effects, they contribute to overall uncertainty and can indirectly influence investor sentiment.
Conclusion
On Monday, February 3, 2025, the US stock market is set to navigate a complex landscape:
Trade policy uncertainties from newly announced tariffs
A robust slate of earnings releases, with Tyson Foods’ Q1 results drawing particular attention
A potential shift in market structure if Cboe’s proposal for 24x5 trading is approved
Key economic data releases (US ISM and global manufacturing PMI) that will shape growth and inflation expectations
Most Impactful News Summaries:
Trump plans to invoke Alien Enemies Act to support deportation efforts
U.S. President Donald Trump plans to use the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to support his goal of deporting millions of undocumented immigrants. This act allows the president to deport or detain individuals deemed a national security risk during wartime.
The act has been used historically during conflicts, including the War of 1812 and both World Wars, to detain and restrict individuals based on their nationality. Courts have upheld its constitutionality, even after wartime, but some lawmakers are seeking to repeal it due to concerns over civil rights.
Trump's administration is preparing to invoke the act, potentially classifying foreign drug cartels as an "invasion." This raises questions about what constitutes an invasion and who has the authority to make that determination.
Trump sets ambitious goal for US astronauts to land on Mars by 2029
President Trump has announced a goal for the U.S. to land astronauts on Mars by 2029, but experts highlight significant challenges. These include the need for advanced technology to recycle life-support systems and produce fuel on Mars.
SpaceX's Starship, still in development, is expected to play a key role in this mission. However, recent studies suggest that the spacecraft may not be able to carry the necessary payload for a successful Mars mission.
Concerns also include the high radiation levels astronauts would face during the journey and on Mars. Experts recommend conducting uncrewed missions first to test technologies and establish infrastructure before sending humans.
Countries form new trade deals as U.S. tightens tariffs
Countries, including U.S. allies, are forming new trade agreements as the Trump administration tightens its trade policies. This shift allows nations to strengthen economic ties without U.S. involvement.
Recently, the European Union finalized three trade deals, including a significant agreement with four South American countries. This deal creates one of the largest trade zones globally, connecting 850 million people.
Additionally, the EU reached agreements with Switzerland and Mexico, and resumed talks with Malaysia after a long pause. European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen emphasized the transparency of these deals at the World Economic Forum.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/03/business/trump-tariffs-global-trade-blocs.html
U.S. organizations face skills gap as demand for AI expertise surges
A recent survey shows that 70% of U.S. organizations struggle to find skilled workers amid rapid digital transformation and growing demand for AI technologies. Job postings for AI skills increased by 2,000% in 2024, but training has not kept pace.
Many companies are prioritizing upskilling, with 56% focusing on this to address the IT skills gap. Despite 94% of workers willing to learn new skills, only 5% of organizations are actively reskilling at scale, highlighting a significant disconnect.
Organizations are urged to invest in agile learning to adapt to evolving tech needs. A study indicates that 80% of executives prioritize skills over degrees, with many planning to increase freelance hiring to fill gaps in AI and other areas.
Euro falls to lowest level since 2022 as parity with dollar looms closer
The euro has fallen to $1.0141, its lowest since November 2022, as traders react to U.S. tariffs on the European Union. This decline raises concerns about the European Central Bank cutting interest rates further, making the dollar more attractive.
Investors are increasingly betting on the euro reaching parity with the dollar, with some predicting it could happen by March 19. Short positions on the euro have surged, reflecting a bearish outlook.
The Eurozone's economic prospects remain weak, with inflation data expected to influence further interest rate cuts. Analysts suggest that the potential for a global trade war and tariffs could further weaken the euro.
Alphabet prepares to announce fourth-quarter earnings with strong revenue expectations
Alphabet is set to release its fourth-quarter earnings on Tuesday. Analysts expect revenues of $96.7 billion and net income of $26.2 billion, with earnings of $2.13 per share. The company's stock has risen over 8% this year.
In December, Google launched its new AI model, Gemini 2.0, which can perform complex tasks autonomously. The model features advanced reasoning capabilities and will enhance Google's AI Overviews feature, reaching one billion users.
Additionally, Alphabet's Isomorphic Labs plans to begin trials for AI-designed drugs by the end of the year. The company has partnered with Eli Lilly and Novartis for drug research using its AlphaFold AI model.
Source: https://qz.com/google-alphabet-q4-2024-earnings-ai-gemini-1851752953
AI advances particle physics research and may reveal universe's fate, says CERN director
CERN's future director general, Mark Thomson, states that advanced artificial intelligence (AI) will significantly enhance particle physics research. AI techniques are being applied at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) to detect rare events related to the origins of mass and the universe's fate.
Thomson highlighted that AI could enable scientists to measure Higgs boson self-coupling, a key aspect of understanding mass acquisition after the big bang. This measurement could reveal whether the Higgs field is stable or if drastic changes could occur in the future.
AI is now integral to LHC operations, improving data collection and analysis. Researchers are optimistic about discovering new physics, including dark matter, by using AI to explore unexpected patterns in the data.
Bill Gates aligns with Nvidia CEO on quantum computing timeline
Bill Gates has expressed agreement with Nvidia's CEO regarding the timeline for quantum computing advancements. This marks a shift in Gates's focus as he discusses the future of technology in his new book, "Source Code."
Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, remains influential in tech and healthcare through his foundation. He continues to engage with emerging technologies, including AI and quantum computing, despite stepping back from daily operations at Microsoft.
His insights reflect a broader conversation about the potential of quantum computing and its implications for various industries. Gates's views align with Nvidia's perspective on the pace of these developments.
Source: https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/video/why-bill-gates-agrees-nvidias-050117080.html
Windows 11 reaches 36.65% market share as Windows 10 support nears end
Windows 11 reached a market share of 36.65% in January 2025, as Microsoft warns users about the upcoming end of support for Windows 10. Windows 10's share has declined to 60.33%.
Despite Windows 11's growth, many users remain hesitant to upgrade due to hardware requirements and privacy concerns. Microsoft is enforcing a TPM 2.0 requirement for Windows 11, which may encourage users to buy new PCs.
As Windows 10 approaches its end-of-life in July 2025, Microsoft hopes this will drive more upgrades. However, trade tensions may complicate the situation for PC manufacturers and impact prices.
Treasury yields rise as new tariffs spark inflation concerns
U.S. Treasury yields rose sharply on short-term bonds following President Trump's new tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. The two-year Treasury yield increased to 4.27%, the highest since January 10, reflecting heightened inflation concerns.
Market expectations for Federal Reserve interest rate cuts have shifted. Investors now anticipate the first cut in September, compared to earlier expectations for July. The likelihood of two cuts this year has decreased from 90% to 66%.
U.S. equity futures fell by 1.7% as investors brace for market volatility. The Fed recently held rates steady, awaiting clearer inflation trends after multiple cuts last year.
Analyst warns DeepSeek breakthrough may challenge Oracle's market position
A recent breakthrough in AI technology called DeepSeek may negatively affect Oracle Corporation. Analysts from Bank of America noted that while Oracle's cloud growth relies on migrating existing database systems, the new technology could change the competitive landscape.
Investors are closely monitoring how DeepSeek impacts chip demand and the potential for Chinese companies to develop competitive AI chips. This development raises concerns for U.S. tech firms, including Oracle.
The article also highlights a list of ten AI stocks gaining attention on Wall Street, with Oracle being one of them. The interest in these stocks is driven by hedge fund investments, which have historically outperformed the market.
Source: https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/analyst-says-deepseek-breakthrough-could-194936609.html
Trump administration signals tough stance on major US mergers with lawsuit against HP-Juniper deal
The Trump administration has signaled a tough stance on mergers, filing a lawsuit to block Hewlett Packard's $14 billion acquisition of Juniper Networks. The Justice Department claims this merger would reduce competition in the enterprise wireless networking market.
The DOJ argues that the merger would give HP and Cisco control of over 70% of the market, limiting competition. Hewlett Packard and Juniper have called the DOJ's analysis flawed, asserting that the merger would promote innovation and customer choice.
This approach contrasts with expectations of a more lenient antitrust policy under Trump. The administration appears focused on traditional legal theories and aims to avoid losing cases, especially against major technology companies.
Klarna CEO embraces AI's role in replacing human jobs as company eyes U.S. public offering
Klarna's CEO, Sebastian Siemiatkowski, is openly discussing the company's use of artificial intelligence to replace human jobs. This contrasts with many corporate leaders who emphasize AI's role in enhancing employee experiences.
Klarna, a Swedish tech firm, is preparing for a U.S. public offering, aiming for a valuation over $15 billion. The company focuses on consumer payment solutions and is positioning itself as a leader in AI adoption.
This approach highlights a shift in how some companies view AI's impact on the workforce, moving away from the typical narrative of job creation and employee support.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/02/business/klarna-ceo-ai.html
Novo Nordisk reports strong results for new weight loss drug amycretin
Novo Nordisk has reported promising results for its new weight loss drug, amycretin, which outperformed its current best-seller, Wegovy. In a clinical trial, patients taking amycretin lost an average of 22% of their weight in 36 weeks, while those on a placebo gained weight.
Amycretin is a dual-action drug that mimics two hormones, showing better results than competitors like Eli Lilly's Zepbound and Wegovy. Despite a slower growth rate in the weight loss market, Novo Nordisk's pipeline remains strong, with ongoing research in other therapeutic areas.
The company continues to achieve solid financial growth and has a robust dividend program, making it an attractive option for investors. Novo Nordisk aims to diversify beyond diabetes and obesity treatments in the coming years.
Google's X launches Heritable Agriculture to boost crop yields with AI
Google's X has launched a new startup, Heritable Agriculture, focused on using artificial intelligence to enhance crop yields. This marks a shift as the company moves towards commercializing technology developed in its research labs.
Heritable Agriculture aims to address environmental issues linked to traditional farming, such as greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption. The startup will analyze plant genomes to improve breeding methods without using genetic modification techniques.
The company has secured funding from various investors, including Google. This development follows recent layoffs at Google X, which is now more actively spinning off independent ventures.
Trump promotes integration of cryptocurrency and traditional finance with new investment initiative
Donald Trump is promoting closer ties between traditional finance and cryptocurrency. His company, Trump Media & Technology Group, plans to launch Truth.Fi, investing up to $250 million in digital assets, with funds managed by Charles Schwab.
The Securities and Exchange Commission has removed an accounting rule that made it costly for banks to offer crypto custody. This change is expected to encourage more financial institutions to hold digital assets, increasing their acceptance in the market.
Experts believe this shift will lead to greater integration of crypto into mainstream finance, making it a more common investment alongside securities and precious metals.
Tech earnings week features Amazon and Google as labor market data takes center stage
This week, major tech companies will report earnings, including Alphabet, Amazon, and Palantir. The focus is on how these results reflect the ongoing AI boom and the state of e-commerce and cloud computing.
Key employment data will also be released, starting with January auto sales on Monday. Reports on job openings, private-sector job growth, and initial jobless claims will follow, culminating in the January employment report on Friday.
The Federal Reserve is monitoring these developments as it assesses the labor market's strength amid cooling inflation, which may influence future rate decisions.
Source: https://qz.com/google-amazon-novo-nordisk-pfizer-stock-earnings-1851752851