Latest Corporate News News
Wall Street Sell-Off on AI Bubble Concerns
Overnight, renewed concerns about an AI bubble drove a sharp sell-off in technology stocks, with the Nasdaq Composite falling 1.8%, S&P 500 dropping 1.2%, and Dow slipping 0.5%. Asian markets followed suit, Japan's Nikkei 225 down 1% led by tech shares like SoftBank (-4%) and Tokyo Electron (-3.2%).
South Korea’s Kospi fell 1.5% amid electronics and auto losses.
UWM Announces Strategic Acquisition of TWO
UWMC announced a strategic acquisition of TWO on December 17, expected to boost profitability, cash flow, and market position through synergies. The deal increases UWM’s public float by 93% to $2.6 billion and leverages TWO’s capital markets expertise.
It aligns complementary organizations for growth and continued dividends.
CVB Financial to Merge with Heritage Commerce Corp
CVB Financial Corp. and Heritage Commerce Corp announced a definitive merger agreement on December 17, an all-stock deal valued at $811 million or $13.00 per HTBK share. The combination creates a $22 billion asset California business bank with over 75 branches across key economic centers.
It expands Citizens’ Bay Area presence for comprehensive market coverage.
VYNE Therapeutics and Yarrow Bioscience Enter Merger Agreement
VYNE Therapeutics and Yarrow Bioscience announced a definitive all-stock merger on December 17. The deal combines the companies to advance biotech initiatives.
Announced via GlobeNewswire on December 18.
Community West Bancshares Merges with United Security Bancshares
California-based Community West Bancshares and United Security Bancshares signed a $191.9 million merger agreement. The deal consolidates regional banking operations.
It strengthens their position in community banking.
Asian Tech Stocks Slide After US Sell-Off
Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell 1% to 49,001.50, with SoftBank dropping 4%, Tokyo Electron 3.2%, and Advantest 3.3%; Honda slid 2.2% on chip shortages. South Korea’s Kospi dropped 1.5% to 3,994.51, LG down 3.1%.
Chinese markets mixed, Hong Kong Hang Seng -0.3%.
Global Markets Mixed Ahead of US CPI Data
US stock futures mixed with S&P up 0.3%, Nasdaq futures +0.6% ahead of November CPI at 0830 ET. European indexes flat to slightly higher; oil prices rose with Brent at $60.08 amid US-Venezuela tensions.
Micron Technology shares gained after-hours on raised forecasts.
Active Restaurant M&A in 2025 Highlighted
2025 saw major restaurant deals: Dave’s Hot Chicken majority stake to Roark Capital over $1B. Sun Holdings acquired Uncle Julio’s and Bar Louie; private equity buying Denny’s; RaceTrac took Potbelly private.
Year marked high M&A activity in sector.
American Drive Acquisition Company Prices $200M IPO
American Drive Acquisition Company announced pricing of its $200 million initial public offering. This supports merger and acquisition activities in corporate space.
Deal positions it for future investments.
US M&A Review Notes November Mega-Deals
November 2025 U.S. M&A topped with Kimberly-Clark’s $40.2B acquisition of Kenvue and Eaton Corp deals. Reflects ongoing large-scale corporate consolidation.
Data from FactSet insights.
Oil Prices Rise Amid Geopolitical Tensions
Brent crude up 0.7% to $60.08, WTI +0.8% to $56.24 due to US blockade of Venezuelan oil tankers risking 600k bpd exports. European oil/gas stocks benefit; prices down 20% YTD on supply concerns.
Gold near October highs.
Honda Suspends Production Over Chip Shortages
Honda slid 2.2% after reports of suspending production at plants in Japan and China due to chip shortages. Contributes to broader auto sector pressure in Asia.
Highlights ongoing supply chain issues.