THREAD: american express hit hard 230

CANADIAN PRIDE Surge: US Businesses Face Tough Times

01 April 2025 — The “Buy Canadian” movement is gaining steam, impacting U.S. companies looking to expand into Canada. Demeter Fragrances, a Pennsylvania perfume maker, stopped its expansion plans due to changing Canadian tastes. CEO Mark Crames noted a growing dislike for American products in Canada.

This trend isn’t just about perfumes but spans different sectors like drinks and citrus fruits from the U.S. Canadian businesses are thriving as local goods win over consumers. Jason McAllister of Irving Personal Care reported their Canadian-made diapers’ weekly shipments have quadrupled, showing this shift in buyer behavior.

The movement worries U.S.-based consumer companies that depended on the Canadian market for growth chances. Executives are now rethinking strategies as they face more difficulties entering the Canadian retail space amid rising protectionist feelings.

GOLD Prices PLUMMET Amid Trade WAR Jitters

26 February 2025 — Gold prices took a big hit on Tuesday as traders cashed in profits with US Treasury bond yields falling. The XAU/USD pair saw a noticeable drop during the North American session. President Trump’s tariff threats against Mexico and Canada added to market uncertainty, affecting investor choices.

The decline in gold prices marks a change from the previous session’s record highs, driven by fears about Trump’s trade policies. Investors are reacting to possible instability in global markets, leading them to take profits.

This market shift highlights ongoing worries about economic stability and trade relations under the current administration. As traders adjust their positions, gold’s recent rally seems to be losing momentum amid these geopolitical tensions.

LIV Golf’s MONEY Woes: Is a PGA Merger the Only Hope?

24 February 2025 — LIV Golf is facing serious financial trouble. Losses in its UK branch have jumped from $244 million to $394 million in 2023. This big spike has people wondering if a merger with the PGA Tour might be on the horizon.

The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is still a key lifeline for LIV Golf during these tough times. Without this support, the league could struggle to become profitable and sustainable.

These money problems raise questions about LIV Golf’s future in pro golf. Will it need major changes or a merger to keep going? The coming months are crucial for its survival and growth in the sport.

HSBC’S BOLD Move: 40 Dealmakers CUT in Hong Kong

18 February 2025 — HSBC has laid off 40 investment bankers in Hong Kong. This is part of a global restructuring plan to cut costs. The layoffs hit several divisions, including technology, media, telecommunications, and financial institutions. HSBC aims to streamline operations worldwide with this bold move.

GOLD SHINES: Prices RISE Despite STRONG Dollar

Gold prices are climbing even as the dollar gains strength. Investors flock to gold as a safe haven during economic uncertainty over tariffs and interest rates. This highlights gold’s lasting appeal in volatile markets.

MILEI FIGHTS BACK: Denies WRONGDOING in Crypto SCANDAL

Argentine President Javier Milei denies any wrongdoing in a cryptocurrency scandal threatening his political career. Facing lawsuits and impeachment calls, Milei defends himself amid growing scrutiny. The controversy adds pressure on his administration during tough economic times for Argentina.

Heartland Bank reports a $50 million loss from bad loans but insists its overall financial health is stable. Despite this setback, the bank plans to issue a half-year dividend as expected, reassuring investors of its resilience.

LIV Golf’s SHOCKING Financial Woes: What’s Next for the Saudi-Backed League?

16 February 2025 — LIV Golf is facing serious financial trouble, with losses skyrocketing. Reports show that the UK branch’s losses jumped from $244 million to $394 million in 2023. This has fueled rumors of possible merger talks with the PGA Tour.

The Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) is still providing crucial financial support to LIV Golf during these tough times. Without this backing, LIV Golf might struggle to survive as it deals with issues of profitability and sustainability.

These challenges raise questions about LIV Golf’s future in professional golf. Can it continue without major changes, or will a merger become necessary? The coming months could be pivotal for its survival and growth in the sport.

LIV Golf’s FINANCIAL Turmoil: Is the Dream Fading?

15 February 2025 — LIV Golf is facing big financial problems, with losses “piling up at a staggering rate.” Analysts have looked into recent financial reports to reach this conclusion.

The UK branch of LIV Golf, which manages operations outside the U.S., saw its losses jump from $244 million to $394 million in 2023. This huge increase has sparked talk about possible merger discussions with the PGA Tour.

Regular cash boosts from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) are seen as vital for LIV Golf’s survival amid these growing losses. The situation raises questions about LIV Golf’s future and potential shifts in professional golf dynamics.

AMERICAN BUSINESS Bank Surprises Shareholders With First Cash Dividend

13 February 2025 — American Business Bank has announced its first-ever quarterly cash dividend of $0.25 per share on common stock. This marks a big step for the bank, highlighting its strong financial health and dedication to shareholder value. The dividend will be paid on March 17, 2025, to shareholders listed by February 24, 2025.

Based in Los Angeles, American Business Bank serves a wide range of clients like wholesalers, manufacturers, service businesses, professionals, and non-profits. The bank’s focus is clear with its seven Loan Production Offices in key spots such as Anaheim and Irvine in Orange County and other major areas like Torrance and Woodland Hills.

The announcement highlights the bank’s solid growth plan aimed at expanding within California’s business scene. By offering customized financial services through well-placed offices, American Business Bank boosts its role as a top provider of business banking solutions in the region.

TRUMP-Linked Firm’s BOLD Crypto Move Shakes Up Wall Street

10 February 2025 — World Liberty Financial (WLF), associated with former President Donald TRUMP, is making a splash in the crypto world. The firm has moved over $307 million in digital assets to Coinbase Prime. While some speculate a sell-off, WLF says these are just routine financial operations.

WLF plans to tokenize real-world assets, providing a secure platform for big investors. At the Ondo Summit, executives emphasized blockchain’s potential to update traditional finance systems. Partnerships with Franklin Templeton and Google Cloud highlight this drive for innovation.

Market experts believe WLF’s crypto involvement could sway investor opinions and regulatory trends. If successful, it might lead other firms to adopt similar strategies, significantly reshaping the financial scene.

$40K EGG HEIST Exposes Shocking Security Flaws

09 February 2025 — A daring $40,000 egg heist has left the business world in shock. The CEO of the affected company spoke to the media, explaining how thieves stole a large batch of premium eggs. These eggs were likely targeted for their high market value, showing weaknesses in supply chains.

The CEO stressed the urgent need for better security to prevent such thefts. He voiced worries about rising crime rates affecting businesses, especially in agriculture. This event highlights larger safety issues within the industry.

The business community reacted with sympathy and outrage, demanding stronger protections for local businesses against crime. Support efforts are underway to help the impacted company during this tough period.

This theft is a stark reminder of risks even established businesses face today, urging a reevaluation of security practices across all sectors.

NIKOLA’S Financial Freefall: What It Means for the Electric Truck Industry

08 February 2025 — Nikola, the electric-truck maker, faces financial restructuring as its market value drops from $30 billion to just $63 million. This sharp decline shows serious financial trouble within the company. Investors are keeping a close eye on how Nikola handles these stormy times.

KLARNA’S BOLD MOVE: Chasing a $15 BILLION US IPO

Fintech giant Klarna plans a US IPO in April, aiming for a valuation of up to $15 billion. If successful, it would be one of the biggest listings this year. This move highlights Klarna’s drive to grow its influence in the competitive fintech world.

PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL’S Q4 SUCCESS: A Beacon Amid Economic Uncertainty

Principal Financial reported strong fourth-quarter earnings with a 12% revenue increase year-over-year, reaching $4.75 billion. Earnings per share rose to $1.94 from last year’s $1.83, showing solid growth and key performance metrics for investors amid economic uncertainties.

SURFWEAR SHOCK: Billabong and Quiksilver’s US Parent Company Hits Bankruptcy

07 February 2025 — The U.S. parent company of popular surfwear brands Billabong and Quiksilver has filed for bankruptcy, leading to the closure of over 100 retail locations. Despite this setback, the Australian operations of these iconic brands remain unaffected. This marks a big shift in the surfwear industry, impacting both employees and shoppers.

Canadian businesses face new challenges as a key cross-border exemption is set to end due to U.S.-imposed tariffs on Canadian goods. The removal will likely raise operational costs for many companies relying on easier product movement between countries. Businesses brace for an economic impact similar to previous tariff threats under former President Trump’s administration.

Stifel Nicolaus has reaffirmed its “Buy” rating for IBM, setting a price target of $290 based on strong AI advancements and cash flow growth projections. IBM continues to lead in AI innovation through consulting services and software development, positioning itself among top trending stocks in this sector. Investors remain hopeful about IBM’s future amid growing interest in artificial intelligence technologies.

Bristol-Myers Squibb saw more than a 2% drop in premarket trading after announcing 2025 guidance that fell short of analyst expectations. The pharmaceutical giant’s disappointing forecast has raised concerns among investors about its future performance.;

UPS STOCKS Plummet: Amazon Partnership Slashed, Investors Shocked

31 January 2025 — United Parcel Service Inc. (UPS) shares have dropped sharply after announcing a major cut in its business dealings with Amazon.com Inc. UPS plans to reduce its low-margin Amazon business by half, surprising analysts and impacting the company’s revenue projections. Daniel Imbro from Stephens Inc. noted the unexpected nature of this rapid shift in strategy.

The company has projected $89 billion in revenue for 2025, falling short of analysts’ expectations of $94.9 billion, following a reported $91.1 billion for 2024. UPS is focusing on higher-margin sectors like healthcare, aiming for $20 billion in revenue from this segment by 2026 as it raises prices and implements surcharges to offset losses from Amazon’s reduced contribution.

Amazon accounted for 11.8% of UPS’s revenue last year, making the decision to slash this partnership significant amid weak demand recovery for parcel services this year. This strategic pivot highlights UPS’s efforts to stabilize its financial outlook by prioritizing more profitable ventures over volume-driven partnerships with lower margins like Amazon’s delivery services.;

UPS SHARES Plummet: Bold Move to Slash Amazon Business Stuns Investors

31 January 2025 — UPS shares dropped sharply after the company revealed plans to cut its business with Amazon in half. This move comes as UPS faces lower-than-expected revenue projections, signaling that a rise in parcel demand isn’t likely this year. To cope, UPS has been hiking prices and adding surcharges.

In a bid for bigger profits, UPS is focusing on growing its health-care segment, aiming for $20 billion in revenue by 2026. The company predicted $89 billion in revenue for 2025, which is below analysts’ expectations of $94.9 billion. In 2024, UPS reported revenues of $91.1 billion with Amazon making up 11.8% of that total.

The sudden cutback with Amazon caught many investors and analysts off guard. Daniel Imbro from Stephens Inc., noted the swift change as surprising news within industry circles. This strategic shift shows UPS’s dedication to prioritizing higher-margin ventures over volume-driven deals like the one with Amazon.

CHINESE AI Revolution: DeepSeek’s Shockwave Hits US Tech Giants

28 January 2025 — A new force in artificial intelligence, DeepSeek from China, is shaking up major U.S. tech firms. Their latest AI model, DeepSeek-R1, rivals top U.S. products like OpenAI’s GPT-4 and Google’s Gemini but at a fraction of the cost. This move challenges American dominance and has triggered a massive selloff in tech stocks.

Launched on January 20, 2025, DeepSeek-R1 boasts impressive performance with lower training costs than competitors. Nvidia faced a record market cap drop of over $500 billion — the largest single-day loss in U.S. stock market history — due to this launch. Experts are both amazed and skeptical about DeepSeek’s cost claims, sparking debate on future AI investment strategies.

DeepSeek’s CEO Liang Wenfeng has held closed-door meetings with Chinese leaders to discuss global tech competition implications from their advancements. The rapid rise of DeepSeek has sparked talks about traditional tech investment sustainability and potential industry shifts needed moving forward. Consumers are also interested, as the DeepSeek app topped download charts in both U.S. and China App Stores shortly after release.;

UK BUSINESSES in TROUBLE: Financial Distress Hits Record Levels

25 January 2025 — A recent report reveals a sharp rise in UK businesses facing severe financial distress. The hospitality, leisure, and retail sectors are hit hardest, with construction also struggling. From September to December last year, the number of distressed businesses jumped by 50%, reaching 46,583.

Ric Traynor of Begbies Traynor highlighted the challenges these businesses face as they navigate early 2025 hurdles. Many find it nearly impossible to overcome current economic obstacles. This situation stresses the urgent need for strategic solutions and support for these industries.

HONEYWELL’s BOLD MOVE: Strategic SPLIT on the Horizon

Honeywell CEO Vimal Kapur is leading a reinvention plan amid shifting market valuations for industrial giants. The company plans to spin off its advanced material business into a new public entity by late 2025 or early 2026. Honeywell might split into two independent entities focusing on automation and aerospace, though no formal announcement has been made yet.

Since late October, Honeywell’s shares have risen by 8%, showing investor optimism about these potential changes. This strategic shift aims to better position Honeywell in a competitive market while maximizing shareholder value through focused operations in distinct sectors.

AMERICAN EXPRESS Hit Hard: $230 Million Settlement Shocks Industry

21 January 2025 — American Express has agreed to a $230 million settlement, surprising customers and industry insiders. This hefty financial blow highlights the growing scrutiny on major financial institutions. Analysts see this as a turning point, pushing companies to rethink their compliance strategies.

The settlement raises concerns about deeper issues within the financial industry. Customers are shocked and worried about how this might tarnish American Express’s reputation. Experts say this incident could lead to stricter oversight of financial firms in the future.

This development is crucial as it signals a potential shift in accountability for big financial players. The pressure is building for these giants to adapt to tighter regulations and increased consumer awareness. Financial companies may need to reevaluate their practices in response to this wake-up call.

AMERICAN EXPRESS Faces $230 Million Settlement: A Wake-Up Call for Financial Giants

19 January 2025 — American Express has settled for $230 million over claims of misleading customers about fees and services. This hefty settlement reflects the increasing scrutiny on financial institutions and their business methods.

As part of the agreement, affected customers will receive refunds. American Express is also enhancing customer service training and tightening compliance measures to prevent future deceptive practices and regain customer trust.

This settlement highlights the stricter regulatory environment demanding more accountability from financial companies, showcasing the challenges in maintaining transparency under consumer protection laws.

This case serves as a reminder of how crucial ethical business practices are in a competitive market, stressing that consumer trust is key to long-term success in financial services.

AMERICAN EXPRESS Scandal: $230 Million Settlement Over Deceptive Practices

18 January 2025 — American Express will pay $230 million to settle U.S. investigations into deceptive sales practices. The settlement covers both criminal and civil allegations. These charges involve misleading marketing of credit card and wire transfer products aimed at small businesses.

Between 2014 and 2017, American Express allegedly misrepresented card rewards and fees. They also conducted unauthorized credit checks on customers. The Justice Department accused the company of submitting false financial information for potential clients.

This settlement raises concerns about transparency in corporate sales practices. American Express aims to resolve these issues without admitting wrongdoing, showing a commitment to improving its business conduct going forward.

CALIFORNIA FIRES Wreak Havoc: Small Businesses in Ruins

14 January 2025 — The recent wildfires in Los Angeles, especially the Palisades and Eaton fires, have devastated small businesses. Iconic spots like a decades-old diner and a new yoga studio are now just ashes. This destruction hits both the local economy and community spirit hard.

Many small-business owners across Los Angeles face an uncertain future. Entrepreneurs who recently started working with other local businesses worry about their partnerships’ fate. The losses go beyond money, as these businesses often serve as community hubs.

The economic impact could spread through the local economy, affecting jobs and community unity. Business owners also face emotional stress as they deal with losing their life’s work. This situation highlights California’s ongoing environmental challenges and its effect on business stability.

GREEN AGENDA Hits Hard: Ofgem Warns of Financial Burden on Low-Income Consumers

13 March 2024 — The Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem) sounded an alarm on Monday. It cautioned that the shift towards a “Net Zero” carbon emissions economy could unfairly impact low-income consumers. These individuals might lack the financial resources to acquire government-approved technology or modify their lifestyle habits.

In the past year alone, debts from energy consumers have skyrocketed by 50%, amassing a total of £3 billion. Ofgem voiced grave concerns about struggling households’ limited resilience to future price shocks. The regulator also highlighted that the burden of recovering bad debts could pose serious threats to the retail energy sector.

Economic difficulties have already pushed British consumers into rationing their energy consumption. This has led to “harms associated with living in a cold, damp home,” potentially triggering an increase in mental health issues rates.

Tim Jarvis, Ofgem’s director general, underscored the necessity for a long-term strategy to manage escalating debt levels and shield struggling consumers from future price shocks. He mentioned that measures such as altering standing charges for prepayment meter customers and tightening requirements on suppliers had been implemented.