The largest American technology companies are generating record amounts of operating cash, but their ability to return that money to shareholders is being squeezed by the enormous cost of expanding artificial intelligence infrastructure. The change represents a significant departure from a financial strategy that helped support technology valuations for more than a decade, when regular…
Nike’s decision to introduce its first running shoe designed specifically for India reflects a broader change in how the sportswear company is approaching international growth. Rather than relying entirely on products developed for its largest established markets, the company is increasingly looking at local consumer behaviour, sporting preferences and price expectations to identify new opportunities.…
Starbucks is beginning to demonstrate that its efforts to rebuild customer demand and improve store performance are producing measurable results. The company’s fourth-quarter fiscal 2026 results showed stronger comparable coffeehouse sales, improved operating margins and higher earnings, providing evidence that its turnaround strategy is gaining traction. However, the improvement is not equally strong across all…
The latest retreat in global stock markets reflects a growing disagreement between technology companies and their investors over the financial returns from artificial intelligence. For several years, the expansion of AI infrastructure has been treated as a major growth opportunity, encouraging companies to spend enormous amounts on data centres, processors and computing capacity. Investors were…
Apple’s decision to introduce touchscreen MacBook Pro laptops marks a significant change in its approach to personal computing. The company has long relied on a clear distinction between its touchscreen iPhones and iPads and its laptops, which have traditionally been operated through a keyboard and trackpad. By bringing touch interaction to the MacBook Pro, Apple…
Samsung Electronics’ record third-quarter profit highlights an unusual feature of the artificial intelligence boom: the companies supplying essential technology are benefiting from a shortage that is also creating problems for their customers. The South Korean manufacturer reported operating profit of 107.4 trillion won for the July-to-September quarter, almost nine times its result a year earlier.…
Visa’s latest quarterly results offer evidence that American consumers are continuing to spend despite persistent inflation and economic uncertainty. The payments company reported higher profits as customers used its network for travel, shopping and dining, suggesting that household demand has remained more durable than some concerns about the economy might imply. Yet the results also…
Coca-Cola has raised its annual earnings forecast after stronger-than-expected sales in the third quarter, offering evidence that demand for established beverage brands remains resilient despite pressure on household budgets. Revenue increased 7.4% to $13.38 billion, while global sales volumes grew about 5%. The company benefited from demand for zero-sugar drinks and premium beverages, including fairlife…
Airlines are increasingly relying on premium travel to protect their finances as higher operating costs and uneven demand put pressure on the traditional mass-market business. The strategy is visible in the growing investment in first-class suites, exclusive airport lounges, private transfers and personalised services designed for passengers willing to pay substantially more for their journeys.…
London’s Oxford Street has entered a new phase with the permanent removal of motor traffic from a central stretch between Selfridges and IKEA. The restriction covers buses, cars, taxis, bicycles, scooters and other vehicles, making the section a pedestrian-only area. The change is part of a wider regeneration plan intended to attract shoppers, encourage investment…
