Deep-pocketed investors show a bearish stance on Applied Materials (AMAT) with unusual options activity. As a semiconductor giant, these significant trades hint at potential major moves in the electronic market.
President Trump declared a national emergency over Cuba via executive order, citing the communist regime's alignment with hostile foreign powers and terrorist groups. The order mandates tariffs on countries supplying oil to Cuba and aims to oust Cuba's Communist management, believing its economy is near collapse after losing Venezuelan aid.
John Deere is expanding with a new Kernersville excavator plant and an Indiana warehouse, shifting production from Japan. Amidst Trump's farm aid and price warnings, Deere faces average market performance and a worse-than-expected 2026 financial outlook with a $1.2B toll hit.
UnitedHealth Group (UNH) is facing elevated medical costs impacting margins, with investors focused on Q4 results and future positioning. A low 0.09% Medicare Advantage rate boost for 2027 adds pressure, contrasting with higher industry and company cost projections.
Winter Storm Brush causes widespread US disruptions, affecting energy production and power grids (PJM, CenterPoint, Duke Energy, Exelon) with potential stock changes. It also prompts massive flight cancellations (Delta, JetBlue, United), with forecasts of heavy snow and power blackouts.
US natural gas prices surged 60% weekly, hitting $5/MMBtu, driven by a record cold wave expected in 40 states. This boosted energy equities like Antero Resources and EQT, as forecasts warn of heavy snow and strained power systems, anticipating record withdrawals.
