Anti-Clickbait News Summaries for February 16, 2025
US Army seeks AI robots for bridge building in combat zones
Hi! Itβs Jack and The Stock Insider team with the best, non-partisan daily newsletter related to politics, the US stock market, and business. π
The Podcast:
The Markets:
Futures Highlights
Today's futures show a mixed bag of moves. Energy and index futures lead the way with natural gas surging while gold and crude oil lag behind.
π’ Natural Gas: 3.7260 (+0.0980 | +2.70%)
π’ Nasdaq 100: 22203.50 (+90.25 | +0.41%)
βͺ S&P 500: 6134.00 (-1.25 | -0.02%)
βͺ Russell 2000: 2287.50 (-0.50 | -0.02%)
π΄ Dow: 44637.00 (-174.00 | -0.39%)
π΄ Crude Oil: 70.57 (-0.72 | -1.01%)
π΄ Gold: 2893.70 (-51.70 | -1.76%)
Forex & Bonds Update
The forex and bond markets remain relatively subdued with modest gains in the major currency pairs while bond yields mostly drift lower. Investors seem to be favoring stability as the bond sector records some of the more notable declines.
π’ EUR/USD: 1.0487 (+0.0023 | +0.22%)
π’ GBP/USD: 1.2585 (+0.0020 | +0.16%)
π΄ USD/JPY: 152.28 (-0.51 | -0.33%)
π΄ BTC/USD: 97040.60 (-451.30 | -0.46%)
π΄ 30-Year Treasury: 4.693 (-0.039 | -0.82%)
π΄ 10-Year Treasury: 4.472 (-0.053 | -1.17%)
π΄ 5-Year Treasury: 4.324 (-0.062 | -1.41%)
Major News Stocks
Equity markets are showing stark contrasts today: a few standout names are posting explosive gains, while several others retreat into red territory. The clear winners at the top highlight strong momentum, whereas the laggards reflect more cautious investor sentiment.
π’ WRD: +83.46%
π’ DKNG: +15.16%
π’ ABNB: +14.45%
π’ MRNA: +3.35%
π’ NVDA: +2.63%
π’ GME: +2.51%
π’ AAPL: +1.27%
π’ META: +1.11%
βͺ TSLA: -0.03%
π΄ AMZN: -0.73%
π΄ WMT: -0.96%
π΄ INTC: -2.20%
π΄ COIN: -7.98%
π΄ TWLO: -15.01%
You can find my most significant newsletter (over 500k active subscribers) at:
Beyond the Paywall:
Events Affecting The Markets Today & Beyond
Most Impactful News Summaries
Today:
On Sunday, February 16, 2025, there arenβt any scheduled eventsβsuch as earnings releases, policy announcements, or economic dataβthat are set to directly move the US stock market today.
However, investors should be mindful that tomorrow is Presidents Day (February 17, 2025), a federal holiday during which the NYSE, Nasdaq, and other US exchanges will be closed. This holiday can have indirect effects on market liquidity and the timing of news releases in the coming days.
Looking ahead, the early part of the upcoming week is set to be busy. Several high-profile companiesβsuch as Walmart, Alibaba, and othersβare scheduled to release their earnings starting Tuesday, February 18, 2025 markets.businessinsider.com. In addition, a slate of economic indicators and Fed-related remarks later in the week may influence market sentiment once trading resumes.
In summary, while today itself is quiet in terms of market-specific events, the broader context (including the Presidents Day closure and the upcoming earnings and economic data releases) will likely shape investor expectations as the new trading week begins.
Most Impactful News Summaries:
Jackβs note: I recently feel like Iβm running an AI newsletterβ¦
About Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Chinaβ¦
Iβm really trying to be non-partisan.
These articles are simply the most influential.
π
Trump threatens tariffs on semiconductors as changes to CHIPS Act loom
President Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on semiconductors and alter federal contracts with chipmakers. This could hinder the tech industry, which relies on chip production for advancements in artificial intelligence.
The CHIPS and Science Act, aimed at boosting U.S. chip manufacturing, has already provided $30 billion for projects that create jobs and increase domestic production. Trump's proposed changes may disrupt these efforts and raise costs for consumers.
Experts warn that tariffs could lead to higher prices for various consumer goods that use chips, affecting everything from smartphones to cars. This could slow the growth of the U.S. AI sector and impact overall economic stability.
Energy shapes geopolitics as Tiku highlights at ET Now Global Business Summit 2025
At the ET Now Global Business Summit 2025, Arvind Tiku emphasized the role of energy in geopolitics, noting that petrol and diesel significantly influence economies and foreign policies. He highlighted the need for India to reduce its reliance on imported fuels.
Tiku praised India's decision to purchase Russian oil amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, calling it a strategic move. He pointed out that high American energy prices present an opportunity for India to supply energy to Europe.
He discussed the transition to renewable energy, stating that while green energy is cost-effective and environmentally friendly, it will take time to fully replace fossil fuels. The summit featured various speakers discussing global economic shifts and innovations.
Trump hints at changes to US debt obligations raising concerns over financial stability
During a recent press conference, President Trump hinted at potential changes to U.S. debt obligations, suggesting a possible "selective default." This comment raised concerns about the stability of U.S. financial institutions and the global economy.
Trump's economic adviser later clarified that the president was not referring to the nation's $36 trillion debt. However, the administration's actions, including cuts to international aid, have already affected U.S. credibility and trust in its financial commitments.
Former Treasury secretaries warned that any perceived default could damage the U.S.'s reputation. While markets remain stable for now, ongoing uncertainty may lead to shifts in how investors view the U.S. economy.
U.S. judge rules Google holds illegal monopoly power in search market
A U.S. District Judge ruled in August 2024 that Google holds illegal monopoly power in the online search market. This decision, stemming from a case initiated by the Trump administration, has bipartisan support but faces skepticism regarding its potential success on appeal.
Judge Amit Mehta found that Google's exclusive contracts with device manufacturers and browser developers protect its dominant position. Critics argue that consumers can easily switch to other search engines, suggesting that Google's market share reflects its superior product rather than illegal practices.
Google plans to appeal the ruling, which could take years. Meanwhile, hearings will determine potential penalties, with the Biden administration seeking to break up Google or restrict its default search agreements. The ongoing legal debate over monopoly power and government intervention is expected to continue.
Source: https://reason.com/2025/02/16/google-is-big-is-that-bad/
California explores state ownership of oil refineries to secure gasoline supply
California is considering state ownership of oil refineries to ensure a steady gasoline supply as private companies shut down operations. This follows a trend of declining gasoline demand due to more efficient vehicles and the rise of electric cars.
Currently, California has eight major refineries, but closures could lead to significant supply issues. The state is exploring various options, including increasing gasoline imports and regulating refineries more strictly, but no formal plan has been issued yet.
Industry groups warn that state involvement in refinery management could be complex and challenging. California's unique gasoline requirements and lack of interstate pipelines further complicate the situation, raising concerns about potential fuel shortages.
Chinese sex doll maker WMDoll expects 30% sales increase in 2025 with AI enhancements
WMDoll, a leading Chinese sex doll manufacturer, anticipates a 30% increase in sales for 2025. This growth is attributed to the integration of generative artificial intelligence, enhancing the interactivity and responsiveness of their new AI-powered sex dolls.
The latest MetaBox series features large language models, allowing dolls to offer multiple personalities and remember past conversations. These advanced dolls will cost $100 to $200 more than existing models, which range from $1,500 to $2,000.
To address privacy concerns, WMDoll allows users to delete their data easily. The company is also exploring partnerships to develop dolls with lifelike facial expressions and movements, further advancing their product offerings.
Source: https://ca.news.yahoo.com/chinese-sex-doll-maker-sees-093000363.html
US Army seeks AI robots for bridge building in combat zones
The US Army is seeking ideas from businesses to develop AI-controlled robots that can build temporary bridges in combat zones. This initiative aims to protect combat engineers during dangerous operations, especially highlighted by challenges faced in the Ukraine war.
The Army envisions self-propelled rafts that can autonomously connect to form bridges. This approach is intended to enhance troop safety and improve logistics, addressing concerns about current bridge-building capabilities and the risks posed by modern warfare.
The project will progress in phases, starting with defining the necessary technology and ending with a prototype that can operate in challenging conditions. Successful development could also have commercial applications beyond military use.
Source: https://ca.news.yahoo.com/us-army-wants-ai-robots-090702754.html
Chinese EV makers rapidly adopt DeepSeek AI to enhance vehicle features
Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers are rapidly adopting DeepSeek's artificial intelligence to enhance their vehicles. Over a dozen companies, including BYD and Leapmotor, have announced plans to integrate DeepSeek AI features in the last two weeks.
DeepSeek recently launched two advanced open-source AI models, making it more accessible for carmakers. BYD plans to incorporate DeepSeek into its Xuanji vehicle software, offering preliminary self-driving features in many models at no extra cost.
The push for DeepSeek AI reflects growing competition in the EV market, with major brands like Geely and Great Wall Motor also planning to use the technology. This trend comes amid ongoing price cuts across the industry, as manufacturers strive to attract more customers.
Source: https://ca.news.yahoo.com/deepseeks-ai-become-must-feature-093000989.html
Farmers express betrayal over UK inheritance tax changes, MP warns of impact on family farms
Farmers are expressing feelings of betrayal over the UK government's planned changes to inheritance tax, which will apply a 20% tax on agricultural assets over Β£1 million starting in April 2026. Previously, these assets were exempt.
MP Manuela Perteghella highlighted concerns that smaller family farms may need to sell land to cover the tax. She noted that many farmers earn little, despite the high value of their land.
Protests have occurred since the announcement, including a significant demonstration involving tractors in Westminster. The National Farmers' Union is set to meet with Treasury ministers to discuss the issue.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cew5vny955yo
DeepSeek's AI advancements spark $1.3 trillion rally in China stocks
DeepSeek's advancements in artificial intelligence are driving a significant stock rally in China, attracting hedge funds back to Chinese equities. In the past month, China's markets gained over $1.3 trillion, while India's market lost more than $720 billion.
This shift marks a reversal from recent years, where funds favored India due to its infrastructure spending and manufacturing potential. Now, China's tech sector is regaining investor interest, aided by government support for AI initiatives.
The MSCI China Index is set to outperform the MSCI India Index for the third consecutive month. China's lower valuation, trading at 11 times forward earnings compared to India's 21 times, adds to its appeal for investors.
Source: https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/news/deepseek-drives-1-3-trillion-000000107.html
Google updates advertising rules to allow more personal data collection, faces privacy backlash
Google is changing its rules to allow advertisers to collect more personal data, including IP addresses and device information. This new approach, starting Sunday, has drawn criticism for undermining user privacy, which Google previously prioritized.
The new method, known as fingerprinting, creates unique profiles based on various device settings. Critics argue this makes it harder for users to control their data compared to traditional cookie consent methods. Privacy advocates say this shift prioritizes profits over user privacy.
The UK's data watchdog has expressed concerns about fingerprinting, stating it reduces user choice and control. Google plans to discuss the policy change with the Information Commissioner's Office, emphasizing its commitment to responsible data use.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm21g0052dno
IRS plans layoffs of thousands of probationary workers next week
The IRS plans to lay off thousands of probationary workers next week, coinciding with the ongoing tax season. This decision follows a directive from the Trump administration to reduce the federal workforce by eliminating employees without civil service protection.
Previously, the administration offered buyouts to federal employees to expedite workforce reductions. However, IRS workers involved in the 2025 tax season cannot accept these buyouts until after the tax filing deadline of April 15.
The Biden administration had previously invested $80 billion in the IRS to enhance services and hire new staff. Recent Republican efforts have aimed to reverse this funding, while a lawsuit from 14 states challenges the authority of the Department of Government Efficiency under Elon Musk.
Trump administration prioritizes nuclear power in energy strategy
President Trump has focused on increasing fossil fuel production since taking office, signing orders to boost oil and gas exploration while restricting renewable energy projects. He declared a national energy emergency to support fossil fuels.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasizes nuclear power as a key energy source. He aims to promote advanced nuclear technology and small modular reactors, which are faster and cheaper to deploy than traditional large-scale reactors.
Trump has requested uranium be reclassified as a critical mineral to unlock federal funding for domestic projects. The U.S. is working to increase its uranium production, reducing reliance on imports, especially from Russia.