corporate earnings reports

US stocks face a crucial week with major earnings reports from Apple and Microsoft on the horizon. Global trade developments introduce potential market volatility, while investors weigh the impact of tariff tensions. Key economic indicators, including the US GDP report and jobs data, will influence market direction amid concerns about potential earnings slowdowns and economic growth.

Despite breaking barriers in India’s tech industry, women continue to face a widening pay gap, especially in Global Capability Centers (GCCs). A recent TeamLease Digital study reveals that even as representation improves, compensation lags behind—highlighting deep structural inequities. Across sectors and cities, the data exposes a stark truth: promotions rise, but parity remains elusive.

US stocks opened mixed as the Dow edged up while the Nasdaq and S&P 500 dipped. Global markets found stability amid corporate earnings and economic updates, with European markets showing gains. Reports that President Trump may revise auto tariffs offered some relief from recent trade war volatility, influencing market sentiment across Asia.

A recent Oxfam report reveals a stark disparity in income growth, with global CEO pay soaring by 50% since 2019 to $4.3 million annually, while average worker wages have barely budged, increasing only 0.9% over the same period. This widening gap exacerbates financial struggles for workers, particularly in regions like India, where living wages fall short of decent living expenses.

Amidst earnings uncertainty, companies grapple with a volatile trade environment. General Motors trimmed its profit outlook due to auto tariffs, while Harley-Davidson withdrew its forecast entirely. Hershey is maintaining its forecast despite tariff expenses and rising cocoa prices. Church & Dwight downgraded expectations, citing tariffs and weakening consumer demand, planning strategic adjustments to mitigate the impact.

Wall Street saw gains due to a positive US jobs report. The S&P 500 neared a long winning streak. The Dow and Nasdaq also rose. Tech stocks led the gains, except for Apple, which fell due to tariff concerns. Financial stocks also performed well. The market is watching the impact of tariffs and potential Federal Reserve rate cuts.

Foreign investors injected Rs 17,425 crore into Indian equities during April 21-25, driven by positive global cues like stable US markets and easing trade tensions. India's strong economic fundamentals, moderating inflation, and promising monsoon forecasts further boosted investor confidence. Despite earlier outflows this month, renewed interest stems from a weakening US dollar and India's resilient growth prospects.

Walmart has refuted claims of store closures in 2025, clarifying that 11 stores were shut down in 2024 as part of network adjustments. This follows CEO John Furner's announcement of plans to build or convert 150 new stores. The retailer is also investing in remodeling 650 existing stores and expanding its fuel station network.

Ashley Buchanan, the CEO of Kohl's, faced termination. An internal investigation revealed a conflict of interest. Buchanan facilitated deals with Incredibrew, a company founded by Chandra Holt. Holt is Buchanan's former colleague and romantic partner. The deals had unusually favorable terms. Buchanan did not disclose his relationship with Holt. Michael Bender is now the interim CEO.

Stock market recommendations: Bajaj Broking Research suggests a cautiously positive outlook for Indian equities, anticipating Nifty to consolidate between 23,800 and 24,550. They recommend buying opportunities in quality stocks during this consolidation.

Apple's shares declined by 5% following a $10 billion reduction in its stock buyback program and a $900 million cost impact due to US-China trade tensions. CEO Tim Cook cited uncertainties from US tariff policies as the reason for this cautious approach. Despite narrowly beating revenue expectations, Apple forecasts modest growth and is diversifying its supply chain away from China.

US stocks surged on Thursday, fueled by robust corporate earnings that boosted investor confidence despite ongoing trade tensions. The S&P 500 neared its all-time high, while the Dow and Nasdaq also saw significant gains. ServiceNow and Hasbro stood out with impressive results, while concerns about trade policies and economic uncertainty persist, creating market volatility.

Global corporations are grappling with rising operational costs and disrupted supply chains due to US trade policies. Companies like P&G and PepsiCo are raising prices and expressing concerns about consumer confidence. Several firms are revising financial forecasts and strategizing to mitigate tariff impacts, while others are adapting by relocating production or focusing on domestic market expansion.

US markets opened in red as the economy unexpectedly shrank by 0.3% in the first quarter, driven by increased imports and slower consumer spending. The decline raised concerns about President Trump's tariff policies, with the Dow, Nasdaq, and S&P 500 all experiencing significant drops. European and Asian markets showed mixed reactions amidst global trade uncertainties.

Asian stocks surged, mirroring Wall Street's rally, fueled by Alphabet's strong earnings and renewed trade optimism under President Trump. Despite Nissan's profit warning, its shares rose on turnaround hopes. Positive sentiment was bolstered by potential US-South Korea trade understanding and anticipation of earlier Federal Reserve interest rate cuts, even amidst US-China trade talk uncertainties.

New US tariffs are expected to significantly impact India's automotive component sector, potentially reducing operating profits by 10-15%. ICRA forecasts a moderation in revenue growth for FY2026 due to anticipated decline in US exports. Despite these challenges, India aims to leverage its cost competitiveness and is seeking relaxed export controls and enhanced tech access from the US.