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Tuesday, September 16

Recent economic data releases have shown stronger-than-expected performance in the U.S. retail sector, with August sales rising 0.6% month-over-month, surpassing forecasts of a mere 0.2% increase and matching July's revised growth rate. Additionally, both import and export prices increased by 0.3%, indicating persistent inflationary pressures despite expectations for stability.

Market sentiment is heavily influenced by anticipation surrounding the Federal Reserve’s upcoming monetary policy meeting scheduled for September 17th, where a quarter-point interest rate cut is widely expected due to signs of softening labor market conditions alongside sticky inflation rates that could justify further easing measures later this year.

In global markets, Asian equities showed positive momentum following gains on Wall Street driven partly by optimistic trade talks between the U.S. and China regarding TikTok operations; however, European indices are experiencing mixed trading as investors remain cautious ahead of key central bank announcements while grappling with ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains and commodity prices like oil which has seen recent fluctuations amid these developments.

United States Oil Fund LP (USO) [+1.2%, +15.3M]
Russian oil output is expected to experience a modest decline, as reported by Goldman Sachs. This anticipated decrease is attributed to operational challenges arising from existing sanctions and recent drone attacks that have disrupted refining capacity. Notably, these attacks have reportedly incapacitated around 300,000 barrels per day of Russian refining capacity during August and September. Additionally, sources suggest that Russia may be forced to further reduce oil production following assaults on Baltic Sea ports and refineries. This situation presents potential supply constraints that could significantly influence global oil dynamics.

ORCL | +4.5% | +38.8B
Oracle Corp | Systems Software
Oracle Corp has recently been recognized as a leader in the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Cloud HCM Suites for enterprises with over 1,000 employees, marking its tenth consecutive year in this position. This recognition underscores Oracle's commitment to comprehensive HR solutions, particularly through its Oracle Fusion Cloud Human Capital Management platform. Additionally, Cherokee Nation Businesses has adopted Oracle's AI-driven HR solutions to improve recruitment efficiency. Speculation surrounding Oracle's potential involvement in a TikTok deal has also emerged, with reports suggesting a preliminary framework for an agreement between the U.S. and China during trade discussions. Social media activity has highlighted that Oracle is part of a consortium aimed at facilitating TikTok's operations in the U.S., contributing to a notable increase in its stock price, which rose significantly in premarket trading following these developments.

NVO | +2.8% | +5.4B
Novo Nordisk A/S | Pharmaceuticals
Novo Nordisk A/S has recently garnered attention due to significant advancements in its weight-loss therapies. A study presented at a medical conference in Austria revealed that Wegovy, the company's weight-loss drug, led to a notable reduction in intrusive thoughts about food, with nearly half of participants reporting less "food noise." Additionally, improvements in mental health were observed in 64% of participants, and 80% adopted healthier habits. Concurrently, data from the phase 3 REDEFINE 1 trial indicated that cagrilintide achieved an average weight loss of approximately 12% after 68 weeks, with over 30% of participants losing more than 15% of their body weight. Social media discussions highlighted Novo Nordisk's diabetes pill receiving an EU label extension for heart benefits and noted the stock as potentially oversold, with strong year-over-year sales growth of 18%. Strategic initiatives such as exclusive CVS formulary wins further bolster the company's market position.

FERG | +8.4% | +3.9B
Ferguson PLC | Trading Companies & Distributors
Ferguson PLC reported strong fourth-quarter results, with adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of 3.48, significantly exceeding analyst estimates of 2.88 by over 20%. Revenue for the quarter reached 8.50 billion, surpassing the consensus estimate of 8.41 billion by just over 1%. This reflects a nearly 7% increase compared to the same quarter last year. The company has also provided an outlook for fiscal year 2025, projecting mid-single-digit sales growth and an adjusted operating margin between 9.2% and 9.6%. CEO Kevin Murphy emphasized ongoing investments in growth areas and noted the completion of nine acquisitions during the year, underscoring a strategic focus on enhancing operational performance amid challenging market conditions. Following the earnings announcement, Ferguson's stock rose approximately 10% within the hour.

RKLB | -3.5% | -902.3M
Rocket Lab USA Inc | Aerospace & Defense
Rocket Lab USA Inc. has announced a new stock offering program, allowing for the sale of up to 750 million in common stock through an at-the-market structure. This replaces a previous agreement permitting 500 million in sales, under which approximately 396.6 million had already been sold. The company will engage multiple investment banks as sales agents, who will receive compensation of up to 3% of the gross sales price per share sold. Following this announcement, Rocket Lab shares declined significantly in extended trading, closing at 51.70. The proceeds are intended for growth initiatives and potential acquisitions, including the purchase of German laser communications provider Mynaric. Discussions on social media have highlighted the offering's timing and its potential to support Rocket Lab's Neutron rocket program, although there is confusion regarding the market's reaction to what some view as a strengthening of the company's financial position.

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