Rocket Lab notches 14% gain this week after flurry of new launch deals

Rocket Lab’s stock surged 14% this week, rising nearly 40% over two weeks, reflecting strong investor confidence. The company announced new missions with JAXA and a partnership with Q-shu Pioneers of Space, increasing its market presence. With 21 total missions scheduled, Rocket Lab is capitalizing on growing interest in the space industry.

European markets head for mostly higher open, brushing off new U.S.-China trade spat

European markets are poised for a positive start amid trade tension between the U.S. and China. Despite President Trump’s mixed signals, Asian markets fell, while U.S. futures showed recovery. Investors await third-quarter earnings from major companies and guidance from the IMF and World Bank amid ongoing global economic concerns.

How gold, bitcoin are moving beyond market hedge and boosting investment income

Gold is reaching record highs while Bitcoin approaches $100,000, attracting investor interest in income-generating ETFs. As equities soar primarily due to mega-cap tech firms, and bond markets falter, investors seek alternatives. Strategies using gold and Bitcoin futures now offer stable income options, merging safety and growth potential in diverse portfolios.

Report shows hiring at lowest since 2009 as economists turn to alternative data during shutdown blackout

In September, the U.S. labor market remained stable, with the unemployment rate at 4.34%. Hiring slowed significantly, with only 204,939 new hires announced, a 58% drop from 2024, marking the weakest pace since 2009. Layoff announcements fell by 37%, yet total job cut plans in 2025 are at a concerning high.

Applied Digital stock climbs 16% as AI demand fuels data center growth

Applied Digital’s stock surged 30% after reporting first-quarter results, driven by increased demand for AI data centers. The revenue of $64.2 million exceeded expectations, marking an 84% year-over-year rise. Despite a net loss of $18.5 million, the company is expanding its capacity and is well-positioned for future AI infrastructure growth.

Moncler raises prices on tariffs, may postpone store openings if downturn worsens

Italian luxury brand Moncler is cautiously adjusting to U.S. tariffs and a weakening global economy. They plan moderate price hikes and may delay store openings if conditions worsen. Second-quarter sales fell slightly, driven by weak tourist spending, while revenues missed expectations. The company emphasizes flexibility in pricing and expansion strategy.

Govini, a defense tech startup taking on Palantir, hits $100 million in annual recurring revenue

Govini, a defense technology firm, has surpassed $100 million in annual recurring revenue and aims for continued growth, supported by a $150 million investment from Bain Capital. CEO Tara Murphy Dougherty highlights the company’s innovative AI platform, Ark, which enhances the defense supply chain, recognizing challenges posed by geopolitical tensions and competition from China.

Kids are offloading their critical thinking to AI chatbots—here’s how to protect them, experts say

Artificial intelligence, particularly chatbots like ChatGPT, is increasingly used by U.S. teens for homework, raising concerns among parents and educators about its impact on learning and cognition. Experts caution that early exposure to AI may foster cognitive debt and hinder critical thinking skills. Parental monitoring and responsible usage are vital for safeguarding children.

Trump’s Fed chair candidates list narrowed down to five by Bessent after interviews, sources say

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has shortlisted five candidates for the next Federal Reserve chair, including Michelle Bowman and Christopher Waller. The selection process is ongoing, potentially extending past Thanksgiving. Among them, Rick Rieder is favored for his fresh perspective. This decision could significantly impact Federal Reserve policy and its independence.