Investors are keeping a close eye on the markets as major companies make headlines. Here’s a detailed look at the latest developments for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSM), UnitedHealth Group (UNH), Bank of America (BAC), Fannie Mae (FNMA), Morgan Stanley (MS), and Target (TGT).
TSMC logs record profit and predicts strong revenue growth
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) reported a record quarterly profit, reflecting surging demand for AI-related chips.
The company also forecasts robust revenue growth in early 2025, fueled by the global appetite for advanced semiconductors.
However, geopolitical challenges loom, as US technology export restrictions to China could impact future demand.
Despite this, TSMC CEO C.C. Wei assured investors that these controls are manageable and unlikely to derail the company’s growth trajectory.
The current price of TSMC is 1,105 TWD — it has increased by 3.76% in the past 24 hours.
UNH CEO calls for a simpler US healthcare system
UnitedHealth Group’s CEO Andrew Witty highlighted the need for systemic changes in the US healthcare sector.
He emphasized making healthcare “less confusing, less complex, and less costly” during the company’s first earnings call since the tragic death of its insurance unit’s head, Brian Thompson.
Amid weak quarterly performance in its insurance division, UnitedHealth pledged to collaborate with policymakers to reduce bureaucratic barriers, such as prior authorization requirements in its Medicare business.
Health insurance stocks, including UnitedHealth, showed signs of struggle, raising concerns about the sector’s near-term outlook.
The current price of UNH is 520.10 USD — it has decreased by −4.29% in the past 24 hours.
BAC beats profit expectations
Bank of America (BAC) posted a stronger-than-expected quarterly profit, driven by increased trading activity in the fourth quarter.
CEO Brian Moynihan highlighted broad revenue growth across deposits, loans, and trading, positioning the bank for a solid 2025.
The bank reported net income of $6.7 billion, or 82 cents per share, surpassing analyst estimates of 77 cents per share.
With expectations of higher interest income in 2025, BAC mirrors the performance of its Wall Street peers, including JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs, who also benefited from robust equity markets.
The current price of BAC is 46.73 USD — it has decreased by −0.79% in the past 24 hours.
Ackman’s bullish pitch fails to stop Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac stock slump
Shares of government-backed mortgage giants Fannie Mae (FNMA) and Freddie Mac (FMCC) tumbled on Thursday, despite a bullish case presented by Bill Ackman of Pershing Square (NYSE:SQ), who argued that the companies could exit US conservatorship in the coming years.
The stocks, known for their volatility, have surged nearly 300% since Donald Trump’s election victory, underscoring their potential.
However, on Thursday, shares of both companies dropped as much as 19%.
Ackman outlined a three-phase plan for restructuring Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, aiming to unlock long-term value. Despite the recent slump, their strong performance over recent years highlights their growth potential.
Morgan Stanley (MS) outperforms expectations on trading revenue
Morgan Stanley (MS) delivered impressive fourth-quarter results, with earnings per share at $2.22, significantly beating estimates of $1.70.
The bank’s revenue climbed 26% to $16.22 billion, fueled by strong performances in equities and fixed-income trading.
The equities division saw a 51% revenue jump, driven by heightened client activity and gains in its prime brokerage business.
Fixed income operations also surged, with revenue rising 35% due to increased activity in credit and commodities markets.
With robust trading and advisory results, Morgan Stanley remains a standout performer in the financial sector.
The current price of MS is 123.45 USD — it has decreased by −3.45% in the past 24 hours.
Target (TGT) stock slides amid weaker earnings expectations
Target (TGT) shares fell by 2.95% in the past 24 hours, reflecting investor caution ahead of its upcoming earnings report.
The company is expected to post an EPS of $2.14, a 28.19% decline from the previous year, alongside a 4.81% drop in revenue to $30.38 billion.
Analysts suggest monitoring recent shifts in earnings projections, as they often signal short-term business trends.
Positive revisions could boost confidence in Target’s performance, but the retailer faces ongoing challenges in maintaining profitability amid a volatile retail environment.
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