A powerful wave of optimism swept across Asia-Pacific markets on Wednesday, as investors cheered US inflation data that solidified expectations for a Federal Reserve interest rate cut next month.
In this video, Ira Epstein discusses the financial markets as of August 12th, 2025, highlighting the impact of a mild headline CPI number and a rising core inflation rate of 3.1%.
The financial markets are abuzz with renewed optimism for a September interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve, following the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report. This pivotal economic data has significantly shifted investor sentiment, with some traders now assigning a remarkable 94% probability to a rate reduction in the
The financial markets are currently presenting a fascinating dichotomy, with traditional and nascent indicators painting a complex picture of economic sentiment. While equity markets often dominate headlines, the subtle movements in the bond market and the volatile ascent of cryptocurrency are providing crucial insights into broader investor behavior and economic
The global financial landscape is currently a mosaic of varied performances, with key emerging and developed markets exhibiting distinct trends. Canada's S&P/TSX Composite Index has been on an upward trajectory, propelled by robust economic indicators and sector-specific strengths. In contrast, India's benchmark indices, despite overall economic resilience, have
Shares of language-learning app Duolingo (NASDAQ:DUOL)
fell 6.2% in the afternoon session after the stock continued to pullback following a significant rally the previous week driven by its strong Q2 2025 earnings report. The company had reported a 41% year-over-year increase in revenue and a 46% increase in subscription revenue, exceeding analyst expectations and leading to a substantial jump in the stock price. The rally was fueled by the company's raised full-year guidance and a positive investor reaction to its AI-driven growth strategy and expansion into new subjects like music and chess.
NEW DELHI, INDIA - As startup failures reach unprecedented levels with a 58% surge in Q2 2024 alone, CA Viswanathan, FCA, ACS, a Registered Valuer (Securities & Financial Assets) and Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) from the USA, highlights a critical yet overlooked factor in startup mortality: founders' failure to properly value their companies and structure appropriate compensation packages. With over two decades of experience in business valuation and fraud examination, Viswanathan has identified alarming patterns that contribute to the staggering 90% startup failure rate within five years.
Boston, MA – Circle Internet Group, a leading global financial technology firm and the issuer of the USDC stablecoin, witnessed a remarkable surge in its stock (NYSE: CRCL) during premarket trading, climbing over 12% despite reporting a net loss for the second quarter of 2025. This seemingly paradoxical market reaction underscores
Shares of fintech mortgage provider Rocket Companies (NYSE:RKT) jumped 6.8% in the afternoon session after a favorable U.S. inflation report bolstered expectations for an imminent Federal Reserve interest rate cut, a positive development for the mortgage industry. The U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) report for July was largely in line with market expectations, a development that increased the chances of a Federal Reserve rate cut at its September meeting to 95%. Lower interest rates are particularly beneficial for the housing sector as they typically translate into lower mortgage rates. This makes homeownership more accessible and stimulates demand, directly benefiting mortgage lenders like Rocket. The positive sentiment was widespread across the market, lifting major U.S. stock indexes.
Shares of building materials manufacturer UFP Industries (NASDAQ:UFPI)
jumped 3.7% in the afternoon session after the stock rallied along with the broader industrials sector, fueled by optimism for a potential Federal Reserve interest rate cut and an extension of the U.S.-China tariff truce. The rally in the industrials sector was driven by a favorable inflation report, which boosted investor hopes that the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates. Lower rates would reduce borrowing costs for businesses, making it cheaper to invest in equipment and stimulating economic activity. This prospect particularly benefits cyclical sectors like construction and manufacturing, which are sensitive to capital investment. Adding to the positive sentiment, the U.S. and China agreed to extend their trade truce, delaying tariffs and alleviating concerns about trade disruptions. This pause provides relief for companies with global supply chains and offers greater certainty for medium- to long-term business planning.
