Latest Corporate News

đź“…December 16, 2025 at 1:00 AM
Global corporate headlines: major tech layoffs and AI deals, big-bank restructurings, pharma M&A, energy sector shifts, retail bankruptcies, and regulatory actions shaping markets.
1

Apple faces EU antitrust probe over app distribution changes

The European Commission opened a formal investigation into Apple’s recent App Store rule changes, examining whether Apple’s restrictions on app distribution and payment systems harm competition. The inquiry targets Apple’s treatment of third-party app stores and in-app payment linking after apps began offering alternative installs and external payments [1][2].

2

Amazon expands AI investments, partners with major chipmakers

Amazon announced a multi-billion-dollar expansion of AI infrastructure, including new data centers and partnerships with leading semiconductor firms to secure chips for its cloud and generative AI services. The move aims to bolster AWS’s competitiveness as enterprises accelerate AI adoption and follows similar capacity pushes by cloud rivals [3][4].

3

Microsoft completes acquisition of leading robotics startup

Microsoft finalized its acquisition of a prominent robotics and industrial automation startup to integrate physical-world autonomy into its cloud and AI offerings. Microsoft said the deal will accelerate enterprise automation use-cases while regulators reviewed national security implications in select jurisdictions [5][6].

4

Major US bank unveils large restructuring amid profit pressure

A top U.S. bank announced a significant reorganization reducing corporate headcount and refocusing investment banking operations after weaker trading revenues and narrower net interest margins. The bank expects substantial cost savings but faces investor scrutiny over execution risks and potential impacts on client coverage [7][8].

5

Pfizer agrees to buy biotech with promising Alzheimer’s candidate

Pfizer reached a definitive agreement to acquire a biotech company whose experimental Alzheimer’s drug showed promising phase 3 biomarker results. Pfizer expects the bolt-on to strengthen its neuroscience pipeline and will finance the purchase through a mix of cash and debt [9][10].

6

Shell accelerates low-carbon pivot with major CCS investment

Shell announced a multi-year investment commitment to scale carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects across Europe and North America, aiming to cut emissions from legacy assets. The initiative includes partnerships with utilities and governments to de-risk large-scale sequestration and hydrogen production [11][12].

7

Retail chain files for bankruptcy after holiday sales slump

A national brick-and-mortar retail chain filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection following a sharp sales decline over the holiday season and ballooning lease obligations. The company plans to restructure debt, close underperforming stores and pursue a sale of core assets [13][14].

8

Chinese EV maker reports surprise profit, eyes global expansion

A leading Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer posted an unexpected quarterly profit driven by cost cuts and stronger export demand, announcing plans to expand dealerships in Europe and Latin America. The company aims to challenge established automakers on price and software features [15][16].

9

EU reaches agreement on stricter ESG disclosure rules for corporates

EU negotiators reached a deal tightening environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure requirements for large companies, increasing reporting scope and enforcement. The rules mandate standardized climate-related metrics and tougher penalties for greenwashing to improve investor transparency [17][18].

10

Major media conglomerate sells streaming assets in multi-billion-dollar deal

A global media conglomerate agreed to sell several streaming platforms and content libraries to a private equity consortium for a multi-billion-dollar price, aiming to refocus on advertising and live sports. The transaction includes content licensing and long-term distribution agreements with the buyer [19][20].

11

Japanese conglomerate launches hostile takeover bid for semiconductor firm

A Japanese industrial conglomerate initiated an unsolicited takeover offer for a domestic semiconductor company to secure supply-chain resilience amid global chip shortages. The target’s board said it would evaluate the terms while regulators examine potential national-security implications [21][22].

12

Big Pharma faces class-action lawsuit over drug pricing practices

A consortium of plaintiffs filed a class-action lawsuit alleging coordinated price-fixing and anti-competitive practices by several major pharmaceutical companies, seeking damages and injunctive relief. The case could prompt increased regulatory scrutiny and settlement pressures across the sector [23][24].