<ul class="summary-bullets"><li>Apollo’s chief economist Torsten Slok said that February’s weak jobs report likely reflected temporary factors like weather and strikes.</li><li>A major fiscal package could add 0.9% to U.S. GDP growth, he said, from The Big Beautiful bill.</li><li>Growth was expected to be driven by AI data centers, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and defense.</li></ul>After the U.S. economy lost 92,000 jobs last month and unemployment rose by 4.4%, Apollo Global Management’s chief economist Torsten Slok suggested this likely does not signal a broad slowdown in the economy.Speaking&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y-sTpy82tQU">during</a> a Barron’s&nbsp;Roundtable hosted by Fox News on Sunday, Slok said, “If you look at how markets reacted to the number, it really reveals that the market did not interpret this as bad news as such,” Slok said.&nbsp;Simply translated, the loss of 92,000 jobs in February was not a matter of immediate concern, the economist believes. He added, one of the reasons for the growth would be Donald Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill which he says would add 0.9% to the economy. The bill aims to reduce federal spending amid extending tax cuts implemented in 2017 by President Trump.According to Slok, several temporary factors may have distorted the employment data, even as other economic indicators continued to point to resilience in the labor market.&nbsp;The Bureau of Labor Statistics&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm">reported</a> that job losses were concentrated in sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, information services, and construction, contributing to the overall decline in payrolls. At the same time, average hourly earnings rose 0.4% in February and were up 3.8% compared with a year earlier, indicating continued wage growth.Despite the weak employment data, Slok said the Federal Reserve could still face difficulty cutting interest rates in the near term because inflation remained above its target.“The latest inflation print we have is around 3.0, while the Federal Reserve’s target is 2%,” Slok added.<h2 class="st-heading-2">Semiconductors, Defense And AI Infrastructure To Lead Growth&nbsp;</h2>He also highlighted investment in AI infrastructure and data centers, alongside “industrial renaissance” driven by the reshoring of manufacturing. Sectors such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and defense could benefit, he added. Over the past year, the&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.precedenceresearch.com/us-pharmaceutical-market">pharmaceutical industry</a> accounted for a $520 billion economy, while the&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.deloitte.com/us/en/insights/industry/technology/technology-media-telecom-outlooks/semiconductor-industry-outlook.html">semiconductor</a> industry saw a whopping 22% surge.&nbsp;Spending on AI infrastructure and data centers accelerated sharply over the past year as major technology companies expanded capacity, while sectors like pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and defense are expected to benefit from increased domestic investment and manufacturing activity, he added.<h2 class="st-heading-2">Weak Markets Are Not Worrisome</h2>Separately, ARK Invest <a href="https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/business/others/cathie-wood-calls-anthropics-claude-ai-true-pc-moment/cZdl3hzRI4q">CEO Cathie Wood</a> also raised concerns about the reliability of recent employment statistics.&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q2gBVQ7NqyY&amp;t=673s">Speaking</a> in her latest “In The Know” episode, Wood also said the government’s employment reports are increasingly revised and may not accurately reflect the labor market. “To be honest, the government’s employment statistics are becoming pretty useless,” Wood said.She noted that the latest nonfarm payroll data showed a drop of 92,000 jobs, even though other employment indicators suggested stronger conditions. “It was supposed to be up 55,000 based on all of the other employment indicators out there, which are all pointing up,” she said.Wood also pointed out that last year’s payroll data was revised down by 865,000 jobs, significantly changing earlier estimates of job growth.Read also: <a href="https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/united-states-oil-fund-surging-today-israel-tehran-oil-hit/cZdl7tuRI4r">US Oil Fund Surges As Israel Launches New Attack On Tehran’s Oil Storages</a>For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

A Manhattan company window displays an employment notice on November 27, 2025. U.S. firms added 119,000 jobs in September, above estimates. (Photo by Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Weak Jobs Data Isn’t A Red Flag, Says Apollo Economist Betting On AI And Defense Boom

In February, average hourly wages grew 0.4% and 3.8% from a year earlier, showing pay growth in the employment report.

Equity

<ul class="summary-bullets"><li>Analysts flagged a data-heavy macro week, with rate decisions and U.S. labor reports expected to drive volatility across crypto and risk assets.</li><li>Market commentators warned that Bitcoin’s loss of key technical levels in past cycles has often preceded deeper drawdowns, keeping downside risks in focus.</li><li>Despite a short-term price bounce, Bitcoin saw heavy liquidations dominated by shorts, while retail sentiment remained bearish with elevated chatter levels.</li></ul>Bitcoin (BTC) climbed above $79,000 on Tuesday, rebounding from price levels last seen in late 2024 and putting the spotlight back on the $80,000 psychological mark for traders watching near-term momentum. Analysts warn that U.S. economic data and rate expectations could drive sharp moves in crypto and other risk assets.&nbsp;Bitcoin (BTC) had briefly touched $79,000 before dipping back to $78,469.67, up by 0.7% in the previous day. According to&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.coingecko.com/en/coins/bitcoin/historical_data?start=2024-10-31&amp;end=2026-02-02">historical records</a>, Bitcoin’s rebound followed a decline back to price levels last seen in November 2024, a zone that previously saw sustained trading activity.&nbsp;&nbsp;Forbes reported that Yuya Hasegawa, crypto market analyst at Bitbank,&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/digital-assets/2026/01/31/worst-case-scenario-crypto-suddenly-braced-for-massive-1-trillion-bitcoin-price-crash/">said</a>, “A break below the key $80,000 psychological level could accelerate selling pressure once again.” He added that, “Should Bitcoin decline another leg lower, oversold conditions and perceived value levels may increasingly attract dip-buying interest.”<a href="https://stocktwits.com/coins/bitcoin">Bitcoin (BTC),</a> trading at around $78,175.11, up 0.9% in the last 24 hours, saw about $81.62 million in total liquidations. Liquidations rose as price volatility increased near key levels. On Stocktwits, the retail sentiment around Bitcoin changed from ‘extremely bearish’ to ‘bearish’ territory, with chatter at ‘extremely high’ levels over the past day.<h2 class="st-heading-2">Macro Data, Technical Signals, And Liquidations Shape Bitcoin Outlook</h2>Analysts at Ostium Labs also&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/OstiumLabs/status/2018342001721364679?s=20">warned</a> that markets are entering a data-heavy week, with multiple interest-rate decisions and major U.S. economic releases scheduled. These included ISM manufacturing and services data, job openings, ADP employment figures, weekly jobless claims, and the January nonfarm payrolls report.&nbsp;The report noted that the concentration of Central Bank decisions and labor-market data could increase short-term volatility across currencies and other risk assets as investors reassess growth and interest-rate expectations.<h2 class="st-heading-2">History Points To Volatility Ahead</h2>Bitwise Chief Investment Officer Matt Hougan recently&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://experts.bitwiseinvestments.com/cio-memos/the-depths-of-crypto-winter">described</a> the current environment as a “crypto winter.” He noted that periods of high fear and consolidation have historically preceded longer-term recoveries.Market analyst Ali Charts also&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/alicharts/status/2018592173394927973?s=20">pointed</a> out that in past cycles, Bitcoin often saw deeper corrections after losing the 100-week simple moving average, a pattern that has historically preceded drawdowns of “45%-58%.”&nbsp;The broader cross-asset backdrop has continued to weigh on crypto performance. Wintermute&nbsp;<a class="st-link-external" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://x.com/wintermute_t/status/2018624339344851125">said</a> Bitcoin’s drop below $80,000 over the weekend triggered $2.55 billion in liquidations, as a delayed risk-off rotation driven by macro and earnings pressures hit risk assets.Read also:<a href="https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/cryptocurrency/djt-trump-token-crypto-pac-funding-us-elections/cZbitG2R4lv"> Why Trump-Linked Crypto Stocks And Tokens Are Back On Traders’ Radar</a>For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com

Is Bitcoin Ready To Test $80K Again? Traders Are Watching Liquidation Signals, US Economic Data 

Analysts warned that a data-heavy macro calendar, weak risk appetite, and lingering technical pressures continue to raise volatility risks for crypto markets.

Cryptocurrency

Wholesale inflation in India eased to 0.13% in September, compared to 0.52% last month. According to an official press release by the government, the positive inflation rate was primarily driven by rising prices in manufactured food products, other manufactured goods, non-food items, textiles, and transport equipment.WPI Food Index inflation was negative, at -1.99% in September, compared to 0.21% in August.Inflation BreakdownThe wholesale inflation for the Primary Articles category came in at -3.32% in September, from -2.10% in the previous month.&nbsp;Within this, food articles inflation (-5.22%), including pulses, cereals and vegetables, eased compared to the previous month. Non-food articles prices also fell to 3.14% from 5.56% in August. In contrast, the price of fuel and power edged slightly higher to -2.58% from -3.17%.And in the manufactured products category, inflation was 2.33% compared to 2.55% in August.Retail Inflation Falls To 8-year LowsIndia’s annual <a href="https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/india-s-retail-inflation-falls-to-over-8-year-lows-in-september/ch6Sh7wR3ke">retail inflation</a> fell to 1.54% in September from 2.07 % in August, and marked the lowest year-on-year inflation since June 2017. A drop in food inflation boosted it.Earlier this month, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revised the FY26 CPI inflation forecast lower to 2.6% from 3.1%. The central bank cited the impact of the GST reform and a more-than-expected decline in food prices as the primary reasons for the revision.Analysts at JM Financial expect inflation to average below 2.5% in FY26, opening up the room for rate cuts by the RBI in its December policy.&nbsp;The next MPC meeting for 2025 is scheduled for December 3-5.&nbsp;For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

India’s Wholesale Inflation Eases To 0.13% in September

India’s inflation trends show easing price pressures, raising the expectations for a potential RBI rate cut in December.

India’s annual retail inflation fell to 1.54% in September from 2.07 % in August, and marked the lowest year-on-year (YoY) inflation since June 2017. It was boosted by a drop in food inflation.Food inflation dropped to -2.28% in September, the lowest since December 2018. It was -0.64 in the previous month. It remained negative for the fourth consecutive month.The CPI inflation has dipped below the lowest range of the Reserve Bank of India’s mandate.&nbsp;The fall in headline and food inflation in September is primarily due to a favorable base effect and a drop in the prices of vegetables, oils and fats, fruits, pulses and related products, cereals and products, eggs, and fuel and light, according to a press release by the Indian government on October 13.Vegetable prices reduced, with inflation at -21.38% compared to -15.92% last month. Pulse inflation decreased slightly to -15.32, against -14.53% in August.&nbsp;Inflation was lower across both rural and urban areas. Rural inflation fell to 1.07% in September from 1.69% last month, while urban inflation came in at 2.04%, down from 2.47% last month. Fuel and light inflation eased to 1.98% from 2.32% in August.CPI Well Below RBI EstimatesEarlier this month, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) maintained the repo rate at 5.50%, raised FY26 GDP growth estimates to 6.8% from 6.5%, and revised the FY26 CPI inflation forecast lower to 2.6% from 3.1%. The central bank cited the impact of the GST reform and a more-than-expected decline in food prices as the primary reasons for the revision.For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

Egg cartons stacked and on display in refrigerated aisle of KeyFoods grocery store, Queens, New York. (Photo by: Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)

India’s Retail Inflation Falls To Over 8-Year Lows In September

 India’s annual retail inflation fell to 1.54% in September, while food inflation dropped to -2.28%.

The HSBC Flash India Composite Output Index data for September indicated that India’s private sector output slowed slightly from the near two-decade highs reached in August. The index came in at 61.9, down from 63.2 in August.New business growth eased, leading to slower increases in private sector output and employment, while international sales also rose at a weaker pace, the report stated. Input cost inflation cooled, keeping price increases moderate, yet business confidence strengthened by the end of the second fiscal quarter.Factory output outpaced services growth, but both sectors saw slower increases compared with the previous month.Manufacturing Output Softens Due To US Export TariffsThe HSBC Flash India Manufacturing PMI slipped to 58.5 in September from 59.3 in August. Despite the moderation, the reading remained well above the neutral 50 mark, indicating robust expansion in operating conditions. New business inflows continued to grow strongly, although the pace of order intake softened from the previous month.International sales were mixed, with manufacturing exports rising more quickly than service sector exports, which recorded the joint-weakest growth since March 2025. Overall, aggregate new export orders rose at the softest pace in six months.“The manufacturing PMI moderated, but its pace of expansion remains healthy. The imposition of the 50% tariff rate by the US on India likely resulted in a slower rise in new export orders over Aug-Sep,” said Pranjul Bhandari, Chief India Economist at HSBC.“This comes on the back of strong frontloading of exports to the US since early-2025. Meanwhile, new domestic orders rose for the last two months, likely on the back of announcements of lower GST rates. All said, the impact of higher tariffs have been somewhat offset by lower tax rates in the data so far.”Employment And Cost AnalysisEmployment in the private sector continued to expand, but at a slower pace. Both manufacturing and service firms reported sufficient labour for current requirements, with only around 3% - 5% of companies indicating job creation. Similarly, outstanding business volumes rose only marginally, pointing to a lack of pressure on operating capacities.Cost pressures remained more pronounced in services, driven by wage increases and higher prices for raw materials such as cotton, electronics components, oil, steel, and wood. Manufacturing firms, however, increased selling prices at the fastest rate in over 12 years, offsetting some of the softer cost pressures in services.GST Rejig Boost Business ConfidenceMeanwhile, business confidence strengthened to a seven-month high, supported by expectations of capacity expansion, competitive pricing, strong demand, efficiency gains, marketing efforts, and potential benefits from recent GST rate cuts.Key September PMIs· &nbsp; &nbsp;Composite Output Index: 61.9 vs 63.2 in August· &nbsp; &nbsp;Services Business Activity Index: 61.6 vs 62.9 in August· &nbsp; &nbsp;Manufacturing Output Index: 62.7 vs 63.7 in August· &nbsp; &nbsp;Manufacturing PMI: 58.5 vs 59.3 in AugustFor updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.&nbsp;

The survey also found an acceleration in pricing pressures, with raw material and finished goods prices surging higher. 

HSBC Flash PMI: India’s Private Sector Maintains Strong Growth Despite Easing In September

International sales were mixed, with manufacturing exports rising more quickly than service sector exports

Domestic investors are gearing up for an action-packed week with bonus issues, stock splits, and IPOs taking center stage. Across the globe, key events include the US GDP data and minutes of the Bank of Japan monetary policy meeting on Thursday, and the EU’s Manufacturing &amp; Services PMI flash.Let’s take a look at key events to watch in the week ahead:&nbsp;September 22&nbsp;&nbsp;Adani Power: Stock split in the ratio of 1:5TVS Holdings: Board Meeting to consider the issuance of cumulative non-convertible redeemable preference shares by way of bonusSandur Manganese &amp; Iron Ores: Bonus issue of shares in a 2:1 ratioRussian Free Trade Academy (RFTA) Delegation to India&nbsp;US Fed Officials’ Speeches: Stephen Miran was the lone voter supporting a 50-bps cut in the September meeting.TechD Cybersecurity listingSeptember 23India: HSBC Composite PMI Flash, HSBC Manufacturing PMI Flash, and HSBC Services PMI Flash. Both manufacturing (59.3) and services (62.5) rose in August.Pidilite Industries: Bonus Issue 1:1Euro Pratik Sales listingUS Q2 current account data and Manufacturing &amp; Services PMI flash.US Fed Officials’ Speeches: Jerome Powell’s address will be key after he framed the recent rate cut as a “risk management” step, a less-dovish stance that lifted the US dollar index to 97.65 and pushed the 10-year Treasury yield to 4.133%.European Union: Manufacturing &amp; Services PMI flash.September 24European Union: Non-monetary policy meeting for the European Central Bank.Japan: Manufacturing &amp; Services PMI flashVMS TMT and Sampat Aluminium listingSeptember 25US GDP data: Focus on Q2 GDP, core PCE prices, consumer spending data, and jobless claims. The US economy grew 3.3% in Q2 after a 0.5% contraction in Q1, and inflation data will shape expectations for further rate cuts in October and December.Bank of Japan: Monetary Policy Meeting MinutesiValue Infosolutions and JD Cables listingSeptember 26US: Personal income and spending, Core PCE price index for August.European Union: Consumer Inflation Expectations.Vodafone Idea: Supreme Court hearing for AGR duesNazara Technologies: Stock split in a 2:1 ratio, as well as a bonus issue of shares in a ratio of 1:1Saatvik Green Energy, GK Energy, and Siddhi Cotspin listing.For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

A view of Bombay Stock Exchange, which recorded sensex falls to near three-month lows on global risk-off on June 2, 2015 in Mumbai, India. (Photo by Aniruddha Chowdhury/Mint via Getty Images)

Markets This Week: Adani Power, Nazara Stock Split, PMI Flash, IPOs And Fed Speeches

A meeting with the Russian Free Trade Academy (RFTA) delegation is likely on September 22

India’s annual wholesale inflation rate turned positive in August, rising to 0.52% compared to -0.58% in July. However, it was below last year’s rate of 1.25%. After two months of contraction, it increased due to a rise in prices of food products and manufactured goods.&nbsp;The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for food turned positive, moving from -2.15% in July to 0.21% in August.According to an official press release, the positive rate of inflation is due to an increase in the prices of food products, other manufacturing, non-food articles, other non-metallic mineral products, and other transport equipment, among other items.The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for August 2025 showed mixed trends across major categories. The Primary Articles index rose to 1.60% in August from 1.02% last month. Prices increased for non-food articles increased to 2.92%, minerals came in at 2.66%, and food articles by 1.45%, while crude petroleum and natural gas fell to 0.43%.The Fuel &amp; Power group declined to 0.69% as electricity and mineral oil prices dropped, while coal prices remained unchanged. Manufactured Products turned positive to 0.21% from -0.21 last month.Thirteen sub-groups, including food products, textiles, and electrical equipment, reported price increases, while five groups, such as basic metals and electronics, saw declines, according to the press release.CPI data for AugustIndia’s retail inflation rose to 2.07% in August from 1.55% in July, snapping a nine-month decline, mainly on higher food prices.Food inflation widened to -0.69% from -1.76% in July. Vegetable prices increased by 15.92%, while pulses decreased by 14.53%.Despite the uptick, inflation remains well within the Reserve Bank of India’s 4% target, with the central bank maintaining a cautious but positive outlook.&nbsp;RBI’s next policy meeting takes place between September 29 and October 1. The central bank is largely expected to maintain the status quo on interest rates.&nbsp; &nbsp;For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.&nbsp;

India’s Wholesale Inflation Snaps Two-Month Decline, Climbs To 0.52% In August

Retail inflation also edged higher but remains well within RBI’s comfort zone.

India’s private sector economy&nbsp;expanded at its fastest pace in nearly two decades, according to HSBC Flash PMI data for August. The HSBC Flash India Composite Output Index surged to 65.2 in August from 61.1 in July, marking the steepest growth on recordAccording to the report, the sharp rise was fueled by strong sales growth, with new orders increasing at one of the fastest rates on record. Hiring also gained momentum as job creation picked up, while business confidence hit its highest level since March. Companies reported strong pricing power, with output charge inflation climbing to a&nbsp;12-and-a-half-year high.The HSBC Flash India Manufacturing PMI rose to 59.8 in August from 59.1 in July, the highest since January 2008, reflecting stronger demand and faster improvement in factory conditions.The HSBC Flash India Services PMI Business Activity Index rose to 65.6 in August from 60.5 in July. Meanwhile, the Manufacturing PMI Output Index increased to 64.2 from 62.5.Exports Boost Private Sector OutputIndia’s private sector witnessed strong momentum in August, with export markets playing a key role in driving growth, the report read. Survey data showed new business from abroad expanded at the fastest pace since records began in 2014, with higher demand from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the US.However, according to HSBC’s chief India economist, growth of manufacturing export orders remained unchanged from July’s levels.On the pricing front, inflationary pressures intensified as companies faced higher wage costs and raw material prices. Consequently, output charges increased at the sharpest rate since February 2013, with many firms citing strong demand as a reason to raise prices.Private Sector To Overcome Inflation-related HeadwindsLooking ahead, business optimism improved significantly, reaching the highest level since March. Both manufacturers and service providers expressed confidence in further growth over the next 12 months, supported by a favorable demand outlook. The latest data suggest that India’s private sector is poised to maintain strong expansion despite inflationary challenges.Earlier this month, India posted its annual retail inflation data, which slowed to 1.55% in July from 2.1% in June, the lowest in eight years. It was led by a steep drop in food prices. Food inflation came in at -1.76%, lower than -1.01% in June, its lowest in six years.Another key factor going ahead will be the impact of the Goods and Services Tax rejig.&nbsp; The Indian government decided to change the GST structure by cutting down the number of slabs to just two core rates - 5% and 18%.It is also likely to introduce a concessional rate below 1% and a steep “sin rate” of 40% for five to seven select items. As part of this reform, the existing 12% and 28% brackets will be scrapped entirely.&nbsp;For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

Image of huge new modern factory with robots and machines producing industrial plastic pieces and equipment

India Economy Posts Sharpest Private Sector Expansion in Nearly Two Decades: HSBC PMI Report

The private sector growth was primarily driven by increase in exports, data showed

Meta Platforms Inc. (META)&nbsp;is facing mounting legal pressure in Europe&nbsp;over its intention to harvest data from Facebook and Instagram users to train artificial intelligence models.&nbsp;Austrian-based privacy rights organization&nbsp;Noyb, founded by data protection advocate Max Schrems, has formally demanded that Meta stop these data practices by issuing a cease and desist letter.&nbsp;The action comes ahead of a planned policy update on May 27, 2025, when Meta aims to begin using personal user data without prior opt-in approval, justifying the approach through a so-called 'legitimate interest' as defined in the&nbsp;European Union’s (EU) General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).Last month, Meta announced plans to train its AI systems using publicly available posts and comments from adult users in the EU.The company said EU users of Meta platforms will receive in-app and email notifications explaining how their data may be used to improve Meta’s AI. The messages include a link to an objection form, which users can submit anytime.&nbsp;The tech giant also added that it does not use private messages or public data from EU users under 18 to train its generative AI models.Noyb claims Meta’s strategy contradicts GDPR rules by bypassing the need for clear and informed user consent. The group&nbsp;criticized the opt-out process,&nbsp;calling it unnecessarily complicated&nbsp;as it&nbsp;burdens individuals&nbsp;with defending their privacy.&nbsp;It also warns that Meta’s broad interpretation of “AI technology” may allow the company to use personal data for various purposes, such as targeted advertising, without proper oversight. Complaints have been submitted to regulators in 11 EU countries.Schrems indicated that Meta could face injunctions and a collective lawsuit for intangible harm, with the overall compensation amounting to as much as €200 billion (approximately $223.80 billion)."We would expect that the use of social media data for AI training would trigger a lot of litigation throughout the EU. Even just managing this litigation will be a huge task for Meta,” said&nbsp;Schrems.The outcome of this legal dispute could have significant implications for how tech companies handle user data in the context of AI development. If&nbsp;Noyb succeeds in its legal challenges, Meta may be required to revise its data processing practices.On Stocktwits, retail sentiment surrounding Meta shares turned ‘bearish’ from ‘neutral’ a day ago.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:644/85;" src="https://news.stocktwits-cdn.com/Screenshot_2025_05_14_134745_png_71a836310d.webp" alt="META's Sentiment Meter and Message Volume as of 02:20 p.m. ET on May 14, 2025 | Source: Stocktwits" width="644" height="85"><figcaption>META's Sentiment Meter and Message Volume as of 02:20 p.m. ET on May 14, 2025 | Source: Stocktwits</figcaption></figure>Meta Platforms' stock has gained 12.5% in 2025 and 39.6% in the last 12 months.Also See:&nbsp;<a href="https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/elon-musk-tesla-pay-package-may-see-overhaul/chiqq5hRbNi">Elon Musk’s Tesla Pay Package May See Overhaul As Board Reportedly Forms Special Review Committee</a>For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

Meta AI is displayed on a mobile phone with the Meta logo visible on a tablet screen in this photo illustration in Brussels, Belgium, on January 7, 2025. (Photo by Jonathan Raa/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Meta Faces $200B Legal Action Over Use Of EU User Data For AI Training: Retail Turns Bearish

Austrian-based privacy rights organization Noyb, founded by data protection advocate Max Schrems, has formally demanded that Meta stop these data practices by issuing a cease and desist letter.

Nvidia-backed data and AI solutions provider Databricks has announced plans to acquire Neon, a company specializing in serverless Postgres databases.This strategic&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.databricks.com/company/newsroom/press-releases/databricks-agrees-acquire-neon-help-developers-deliver-ai-systems">acquisition</a> allows Databricks to tap into the rapidly changing database market, now valued at over $100 billion, which is being reshaped by the increased adoption of artificial intelligence.Databricks, which counts big tech names like Nvidia and Microsoft as its investors, is valued at $62 billion after the company raised $10 billion in<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.databricks.com/company/newsroom/press-releases/databricks-raising-10b-series-j-investment-62b-valuation"> series J funding</a> last year.&nbsp;Neon’s infrastructure is built specifically to accommodate AI-driven processes and contemporary development needs.&nbsp;Recent internal data shows that more than 80% of Neon’s databases are launched automatically by AI agents rather than manually by developers, a sign of the increasing dominance of automated, machine-led workflows.Neon's system enables lightning-fast setup, with Postgres instances spinning up in less than half a second. This speed is ideal for AI agents that need to create and discard databases frequently without disrupting live systems.Neon CEO Nikita Shamgunov stated that the acquisition will amplify Neon’s original mission of building an accessible, cloud-optimized Postgres offering with the support and resources of an AI giant.PostgreSQL, often referred to as Postgres, is an open-source relational database system designed for flexibility and adherence to SQL standards.Through this acquisition, Databricks will incorporate Neon’s serverless technology into its Data Intelligence Platform, giving customers enhanced capabilities to build and scale AI-driven solutions.&nbsp;“The era of AI-native, agent-driven applications is reshaping what a database must do,” said Databricks Co-Founder and CEO, Ali Ghodsi.Following the acquisition, Neon’s team is expected to become part of Databricks. Though financial details were not disclosed, a report from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/databricks-to-buy-startup-neon-for-1-billion-fdded971">Wall Street Journal</a> said the deal is valued at $1 billion.The report also mentioned that Databricks’ latest acquisition represents the company’s third billion-dollar investment in the AI and data space in recent years.&nbsp;Databricks previously acquired generative AI firm MosaicML for $1.3 billion in 2023, and spent an estimated $1 billion to $2 billion last year to purchase data management startup Tabular.On Stocktwits, retail sentiment surrounding Nvidia shares turned ‘Extremely Bullish’ from ‘Bullish’ a day ago.<figure class="image"><img style="aspect-ratio:643/88;" src="https://news.stocktwits-cdn.com/Screenshot_2025_05_14_074533_png_7b9c091ce0.webp" alt="NVDA's Sentiment Meter and Message Volume as of 08:05 a.m. ET on May 14, 2025 | Source: Stocktwits" width="643" height="88"><figcaption>NVDA's Sentiment Meter and Message Volume as of 08:05 a.m. ET on May 14, 2025 | Source: Stocktwits</figcaption></figure>Nvidia stock has lost 3.2% in 2025 and gained 42.2% in the last 12 months.Also See: <a href="https://stocktwits.com/news-articles/markets/equity/portfolio-manager-praises-nvidia-idiosyncratic-ai-growth/chiqKIARbNT">'I Love Nvidia:' Portfolio Manager Praises Chipmaker's 'Idiosyncratic' AI Growth Amid Retail Bullishness</a>For updates and corrections, email newsroom[at]stocktwits[dot]com.

The Databricks logo appears on the screen of a smartphone in Reno, United States, on December 7, 2024. (Photo by Jaque Silva/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Nvidia, Microsoft-Backed Databricks Bets Big On AI Agents With $1B Neon Takeover: Retail Turns Extremely Bullish

This strategic acquisition allows Databricks to tap into the rapidly changing database market, now valued at over $100 billion.

<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://finqai.com/">FINQ</a>, a cutting-edge investment platform powered by artificial intelligence, is now offering a 2-month free trial for its DIY tool. Designed to simplify and elevate the investment experience, this initiative empowers self-directed investors to explore advanced portfolio management and stock analysis capabilities without financial commitment. With the trial, FINQ aims to bridge the gap between traditional investing complexities and innovative, data-driven solutions, enabling users to make confident decisions in a dynamic market.<h2>Revolutionizing Self-Directed Investing</h2>Navigating the stock market can be a daunting task for many self-directed investors. Research, stock selection, and portfolio management often require substantial time, expertise, and effort. FINQ addresses these challenges with its AI-powered DIY tool, which automates essential processes to remove the guesswork and inefficiencies associated with traditional investing methods.Unlike human advisors, FINQ’s platform relies entirely on data-driven insights, ensuring decisions are free of biases or conflicts of interest. Through its continuous analysis of the top 500 publicly traded U.S. companies, the platform identifies trends and opportunities that investors might miss, offering an objective approach to market navigation. This approach eliminates barriers to investing, making sophisticated strategies accessible to users at all levels of experience.<h2>Empowering Investors with a Hands-On Trial</h2>FINQ’s free trial offers investors an immersive experience, allowing them to test the platform's capabilities and evaluate its effectiveness firsthand. During this period, users have full access to FINQ’s portfolio management tools, stock rankings, and analytical features. This trial is designed not only as an introduction to the platform but also as a step toward empowering users to take control of their financial future.With the removal of upfront costs and offering a comprehensive trial, FINQ underscores its mission to democratize investing. Following the trial, subscription options are available at $40 per month or $350 per year, making the platform’s advanced tools both affordable and accessible.<h2>Features Designed for Modern Investors</h2>At the core of FINQ’s offering is a suite of features tailored to meet the needs of self-directed investors:<ul><li>Model Portfolios: The platform provides three AI-powered portfolio strategies. FINQFIRST holds the top 10 ranked stocks for long-term growth, FINQLAST focuses on the bottom 10 stocks for a shorting strategy, and FINQNEUTRAL balances both approaches for market neutrality.</li><li>Real-Time Updates and Notifications: Investors are immediately informed of any changes to portfolio allocations or stock rankings, keeping them ahead of market trends.</li><li>Comprehensive Stock Analysis: Tools like STOCKS DEPOT and FINQFULL enable users to filter and compare stocks, analyze cross-sector performance, and rank their holdings with precision.</li><li>Daily Stock Rankings: The platform provides daily updates on the relative performance of individual stocks, helping investors identify opportunities and risks.</li></ul>With these features, FINQ simplifies the complexities of investing, allowing users to focus on strategy rather than operational tasks.By leveraging AI-driven tools, FINQ not only empowers self-directed investors but also sets a new standard for accessibility and transparency in the financial world. Interested users can sign up for the 2-month free trial at finqai.com to experience the future of investing today.

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The VIX index dropped back below 20 on October 14 and signals a continuation of the bull market and a move back into the more risky stocks that drove the early gains in 2024.The VIX, which is a measure of the market's expectations of future volatility based on S&amp;P500 option prices and serves as a barometer for market volatility, has been in a broad trend decline since its dramatic spike to almost 40 in August.&nbsp;“The more risky high-beta stocks such as NVDA are notching strong gains as the market moves back into a risk-on mode” notes Michael Hanson, CTO of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://firstratedata.com/stock-data">FirstRate Data</a>. Other large-cap tech stocks such as Apple (AAPL), Microsoft (MSFT), and Amazon (AMZN) are also benefiting from the risk-on environment.&nbsp;The VIX has been below 25 since its dramatic peak in early August when weak economic data and an unwind in the yen carry trade caused the market to price in the risk of a recession. The market has since been reassured by strong Q2 earnings data, moderating inflation and stronger employment data.&nbsp;The low volatility environment is also a tail-wind for the high-beta large financials such as JP Morgan (JPM), Bank of Amercia (BAC) and Citigroup (C) which are all up over 5% in the last week.&nbsp;This post was authored by an external contributor and does not represent the opinions of “Stocktwits” and has not been edited for content.&nbsp; The information contained above is provided for informational and educational purposes only, and&nbsp;nothing&nbsp;contained&nbsp;herein&nbsp;should&nbsp;be construed as investment advice. “Stocktwits”&nbsp; does not make any recommendation to buy or sell any security or any representation about the financial condition of any company.

VIX Remains Subdued and Signals a Continued Bull Market

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SELLAS Life Sciences Group, Inc. is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company, which engages in the development and commercialization of immunotherapeutic for cancer indications. Its product pipeline includes galinpepimut-S. The company was founded by Angelos M. Stergiou on April 3, 2006 and is headquartered in New York, NY.

SELLAS Life Sciences Group Inc

Attention centers on SELLASs anticipated Phase 3 REGAL topline results for its GPS leukemia treatment, a binary catalyst that has traders weighing hopes for a positive readout against concerns about trial failure. The debate is intensified by sharp price swings, with bullish claims of short pressure and manipulation contested by skeptics who see the outcome as uncertain.

Unity Software, Inc. engages in the developing video gaming software. It also provides software solutions to create, run and monetize interactive, real-time two-dimensional and three-dimensional content for mobile phones, tablets, consoles, and augmented and virtual reality devices. Its platform is used by developers, artists, and designers to build content for gaming, film, retail, automotive, architecture, engineering, and construction industries. The company was founded by Joachim Ante and David Helgason in 2004 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA.

Unity Software Inc

Reported preliminary takeover discussions involving Silver Lake and Saudi Arabias PIF are fueling attention, though traders debate whether the valuation discussed is too low and whether a deal will happen. The speculation comes alongside Unitys strong Q3 results, first GAAP-profitable quarter, and rapid Vector ad growth, which some traders argue support the companys standalone value.

Summit Therapeutics, Inc. is a biopharmaceutical company, that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of patient, physician, caregiver, and societal-friendly medicinal therapies intended to improve quality of life, increase potential duration of life, and resolve serious unmet medical needs. The firm conducts clinical programs focusing on Clostridioides Difficile Infection (CDI). Its lead product, Ridinilazole, is an orally administered small molecule antibiotic that is in Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of CDI. The company was founded in 2003 and is headquartered in Miami, FL.

Summit Therapeutics Inc

Summit is in focus ahead of the FDAs PDUFA decision on ivonescimab plus chemotherapy for EGFR-mutated lung cancer. Traders are split: bulls point to strong progression-free-survival results, improving survival trends and AstraZenecas backing, while bears emphasize that the trial missed statistical significance for overall survival and the FDA indicated that evidence was needed.

Rivian Automotive, Inc. engages in the design, development, and manufacture of category-defining electric vehicles and accessories. It operates through following segments: Automotive, Software and Services. The company was founded by Robert J. Scaringe in June 2009 and is headquartered in Irvine, CA.

Rivian Automotive Inc - Ordinary Shares - Class A

Rivian Automotive Inc

Rivians persistent share-price weakness and choppy trading dominate discussion, with traders attributing pressure to short-selling or options activityclaims that remain speculative. Bulls point to Q3 progress, R2 recognition and the upcoming Autonomy & AI Day, while skeptics focus on cash burn, profitability and management execution.

Viking Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, which engages in the development of therapies for metabolic and endocrine disorders. The company was founded by Brian Lian and Michael A. Dinerman on September 24, 2012 and is headquartered in San Diego, CA.

Viking Therapeutics Inc

A sharp, high-volume move has revived speculation about a Big Pharma partnership or buyout for Vikings obesity-drug pipeline, particularly VK2735, alongside attention to its ObesityWeek presentations. Traders disagree on whether the activity signals genuine strategic interest or is another rumor-fueled trading surge; no deal is confirmed.

NVIDIA Corp. engages in the design and manufacture of computer graphics processors, chipsets, and related multimedia software. It operates through the following segments: Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) and Compute & Networking. The Graphics segment includes GeForce GPUs for gaming and PCs, the GeForce NOW game streaming service and related infrastructure, Quadro and NVIDIA RTX GPUs for enterprise workstation graphics, virtual GPU, or vGPU, software for cloud-based visual and virtual computing, automotive platforms for infotainment systems, and Omniverse Enterprise software for building and operating metaverse and 3D internet applications. The Compute & Networking segment consists of Data Center accelerated computing platforms and end-to-end networking platforms including Quantum for InfiniBand and Spectrum for Ethernet, NVIDIA DRIVE automated-driving platform and automotive development agreements, Jetson robotics and other embedded platforms, NVIDIA AI Enterprise and other software, and DGX Cloud software and services. The company was founded by Jen Hsun Huang, Chris A. Malachowsky, and Curtis R. Priem in April 1993 and is headquartered in Santa Clara, CA.

NVIDIA Corp

Jensen Huangs abrupt departure has put Nvidias leadership succession in focus, with reports that the board approached Arm CEO Rene Haas and speculation among traders that Huang could return. The community is split between buyers who see Nvidias AI-chip business and upcoming results as resilient and skeptics concerned about succession uncertainty, governance scrutiny, and possible fallout from export investigations.

Nebius Group NV is a technology company that provides infrastructure and services to AI builders worldwide. It offers Nebius AI, an AI-centric cloud platform provides full-stack infrastructure, including large-scale GPU clusters, cloud services, and developer tools. The company also operates through specialized brands: Toloka AI, which partners in data for generative AI development; TripleTen, an edtech platform focused on re-skilling individuals for tech careers; and Avride, which develops autonomous driving technology. Nebius Group was founded by Elena Kolmanovskaya, Ilya Segalovich, Mikhail Fadeev, and Arkady Volozh in 1989 and is headquartered in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Nebius Group N.V. - Ordinary Shares - Class A

Nebius Group N.V. 

Nebius is under pressure after its outlook raised concerns about delayed third-party data-center capacity and revenue timing, with analyst downgrades and weakness across AI infrastructure stocks adding to the selloff. Traders are divided between expecting further losses and viewing the decline as an overreaction and a buying opportunity.

Novo Nordisk A/S is a global healthcare company, which engages in the discovery, development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceutical products. It operates through the Diabetes and Obesity Care and Rare Disease segments. The Diabetes and Obesity Care segment includes diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular, and emerging therapy areas. The Rare Disease segment refers to rare blood disorders, rare endocrine disorders, and hormone replacement therapy. The company was founded by Harald Pedersen and Thorvald Pedersen in 1923 is headquartered in Bagsværd, Denmark.

Novo Nordisk - ADR

Novo Nordisk A/S

A quarterly earnings beat and higher full-year outlook, supported by strong demand for the Wegovy pill, are fueling renewed interest in Novo Nordisk. Bulls see evidence of a recovery, while skeptics point to diabetes weakness, pricing pressure and competition from Eli Lilly as reasons to question whether the turnaround will last.

HawKeye 360, Inc. engages in the provision of defense technology. It offers spectrum monitoring, maritime intelligence, air defence radar monitoring, GNSS interference detection, and communications mapping. Its costumers include a wide range of commercial, government and international entities. The company was founded by Charles T. Clancy, Robert G. McGwier, Chris DeMay and John Serafini in 2015 and is headquartered in Herndon, VA.

HawkEye 360 Inc.

HAWK is drawing attention after reporting record third-quarter revenue and raising its full-year outlook, with traders also highlighting the earnings-call discussion of international growth, cash reserves and lower-cost satellites. The reaction is broadly bullish amid a sharp, high-volume rise, though claims of institutional accumulation remain speculation.

American Airlines Group, Inc. is a holding company, which engages in the operation of a network carrier through its principal wholly owned mainline operating subsidiary, American. The firm offers air transportation for passengers and cargo. It operates through the following geographical segments: Domestic, Latin America, Atlantic, and Pacific. The company was founded on December 9, 2013, and is headquartered in Fort Worth, TX.

American Airlines Group Inc

American Airlines is drawing attention over the squeeze from elevated jet-fuel costs, linked by traders to oil-market disruption and the Iran conflict, with recent earnings discussion highlighting that strong revenue has not translated into profits and the outlook has weakened. Bears worry about prolonged fuel pressure and AALs debt, while bulls see room for recovery if oil prices ease and travel demand remains firm.

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