Business

Latest Business News

📅February 17, 2026 at 1:00 PM
Global business news highlights steady stocks amid AI hype and US-Iran talks, major mergers, record Hyundai investment, Xiaomi EV profits, and rising jobless claims.
1

Global Stocks Steady as US-Iran Talks and AI Keep Markets on Edge

US equity futures face pressure despite a higher Friday close, with Asian markets mixed and European equities firmer. Investors balance softer consumer data against solid labor conditions amid AI concentration risks and inflation trends.Source 1 Attention shifts to upcoming economic releases and Fed signals.Source 1

2

US Jobless Benefit Rolls Hit Two-Month High Amid Shutdown Delay

Continued claims rose to 1.957 million for the week ending October 18, per Labor Department data released Tuesday.Source 2 This marks the highest in two months amid ongoing economic pressures.Source 2

3

Xiaomi Reports 81% Jump in Q3 Profit on Strong EV Sales

Xiaomi's third-quarter profit surged 80.9%, driven by its electric vehicle line achieving a net gain for the first time.Source 2 The growth reflects burgeoning EV demand and innovative initiatives.Source 2

4

Akzo Nobel and Axalta to Merge Creating $25 Billion Paint Giant

AkzoNobel, maker of Dulux paint, will merge with Axalta Coating Systems in a deal valuing the entity at $25 billion.Source 2 AkzoNobel shareholders will receive a $2.5 billion dividend.Source 2

5

Hyundai Pledges Record $85.8 Billion Investment in South Korea

Hyundai Motor Group announced plans to invest $85.8 billion over five years in AI, robotics, and EVs to boost innovation and exports.Source 2 This is the largest such commitment in the nation's history.Source 2

6

Genuine Parts Company Reports Q4 and Full-Year 2025 Results, Plans Business Split

Genuine Parts released its 2025 financials and provided 2026 outlook on February 17.Source 3 The company also announced separating its automotive and industrial businesses into two public entities.Source 3

7

Indonesian Nickel Giant Vale Invests $9 Billion in EV Battery Materials

The world's second-largest nickel miner is committing $9 billion to battery-grade nickel production despite rising iron-based packs.Source 4 This deepens Indonesia's role in EV supply chains.Source 4

8

Singapore Exports Surge 9.3% in January on AI-Driven Electronics Demand

Key exports rose 9.3%, fueled by strong electronics shipments amid AI demand.Source 4 This reflects robust regional tech sector growth.Source 4

9

Rampant AI Demand Fuels Growing Chip Crisis

Explosive AI needs for memory chips are causing supply shortages and market strains.Source 4 This crisis impacts global semiconductor production.Source 4

10

UK Minimum Wage Hike Raises Youth Unemployment, Says Bank of England Official

Bank of England's Mann stated the minimum wage increase is contributing to higher youth joblessness.Source 4 Policymakers monitor labor market impacts closely.Source 4

11

Elliott Buys into Norwegian Cruise Line, Stock Climbs

Activist investor Elliott has taken a stake in Norwegian Cruise Line, boosting its shares.Source 1 This move highlights opportunities in travel recovery.Source 1