Latest Business News
Wall Street Nears All-Time High Amid Strong Retail Earnings
The U.S. stock market approached record highs with the S&P 500 just 0.3% below its peak. Ulta Beauty soared 12.7% due to better-than-expected profits and a positive revenue forecast, while Victoria’s Secret raised sales guidance after a milder loss than expected. Warner Bros. Discovery's shares climbed 6.3% following Netflix's $72 billion acquisition offer after its split from Discovery Global.
Netflix Offers $72 Billion to Acquire Warner Bros.
Netflix announced plans to acquire Warner Bros. for $72 billion in cash and stock, following its impending separation from Discovery Global. The acquisition includes major assets like HBO Max and popular franchises, but may face regulatory scrutiny in the U.S. Netflix shares fell 2.9% on the news, with Paramount Skydance shares declining nearly 10% as a rival bidder.
Volkswagen Group Commits €160 Billion Investment in Europe
Volkswagen Group, including brands Porsche and Audi, plans to invest 160 billion euros over five years focused on Germany and Europe. The investment targets product development and expansion amid shifting automotive industry dynamics including electric vehicles.
Hyundai Pledges Record $85.8 Billion in South Korean Investment
Hyundai Motor Group revealed a landmark $85.8 billion investment plan over five years in South Korea. The fund aims to advance AI, robotics, and electric vehicles to boost technology leadership and export strength.
Akzo Nobel and Axalta Announce $25 Billion Paint Industry Merger
Akzo Nobel, the manufacturer of Dulux paints, is set to merge with Axalta Coating Systems, creating a $25 billion enterprise. Shareholders will receive a substantial dividend, signaling a major consolidation in the coatings sector.
AI Identified as Key Factor Shaping Global Business Future
At the Baratta Center conference, executives and policymakers emphasized AI as the single most transformative factor for global business over the next 3-5 years, impacting about 80% of industries worldwide. Strategic priorities focus on market-led approaches, alliance-building, and navigating nationalism.
Elon Musk's X Platform Fined $140 Million by EU for Digital Regulation Breach
The European Commission fined Elon Musk's social media platform X €140 million for violating the Digital Services Act following a two-year investigation. The fine underscores tighter EU scrutiny over digital platforms.
Vanguard Embraces Crypto ETFs, Sparking Bitcoin Rebound
Bitcoin rallied over 10% after Vanguard announced its support for crypto exchange-traded funds (ETFs), indicating renewed institutional interest despite a previously sharp decline.
Alibaba Payments Veteran Jia Hang Joins DCS to Drive Payment Innovations
Jia Hang, formerly a leader in Alibaba Group's payment division, has joined DCS to lead initiatives pushing the frontier of payment technology innovation, signaling heightened competition in fintech.
SK hynix Recognized as Top Asia-Pacific Semiconductor Company
SK hynix won two major awards in the financial management category and was named the top semiconductor company in Asia-Pacific at the 2025 GSA Awards, highlighting its regional leadership and strong financial performance.