S&P 500 Aggregate EPS Surprise Corporate America has once again demonstrated its ability to sustain profit margins, with a strong Q4 2024 earnings season surpassing expectations by a significant margin. Image: Morgan Stanley Research
ISABELNET Cartoon of the Day Since the start of the year, U.S. stocks have been so weak on Fridays that bears are starting to think it’s their designated selling day—good time to take profits! Happy Valentine’s Day! 💝
Capital Expenditure by Magnificent Seven Companies vs. Share Price Index Major U.S. tech companies are maintaining their focus on AI infrastructure investment, even as DeepSeek’s breakthroughs raise questions about spending sustainability. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
Inflation Mentions on Earnings Calls Mentions of “inflation” during S&P 500 companies’ earnings calls have plummeted to their lowest levels in years, reflecting a shift in corporate concerns and economic conditions. Image: Bloomberg
ISABELNET Cartoon of the Day Bears celebrate CPI days like kids in a candy store, while bulls are left in the corner, watching the fun unfold—like being at a party with no invites! Happy Great Day, Everyone! 😎
Gold Reserves by Country The United States has the largest gold reserve, followed by Germany. Image: IMF
ISABELNET Cartoon of the Day Wall Street bears are absolutely convinced the bull market is an illusion. Meanwhile, bulls are experiencing a temporary, but highly enjoyable, hearing problem when anyone mentions risk. Happy “Hump” Day, Everyone! 🐫🐪😎
Gold/CPI Ratio The inflation-adjusted price of gold has reached a new high, breaking its previous record from January 1980. This reflects the ongoing devaluation of the U.S. dollar, global economic uncertainties, and strong demand from central banks. Image: Bloomberg
Central Bank Gold Purchases The freezing of Russia’s central bank assets has had a profound impact on global financial strategies, driving central banks to significantly increase their gold holdings as a safeguard against economic and geopolitical risks. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
Magnificent 7 Annual Capex Spend The Magnificent 7’s capital expenditure is projected to grow by 31% to $331 billion in 2025, followed by a 10% increase to $363 billion in 2026, underscoring the Magnificent 7’s focus on long-term growth and innovation. Image: Goldman Sachs Global Investment Research
ISABELNET Cartoon of the Day Ignoring climate risks in your financial strategy is like leaving your umbrella at home on a cloudy day—you might be fine for a while, but you’ll regret it when the storm hits! Have a Great Day, Everyone! 😎