Key Takeaways
- Gilead Sciences (GILD) delivered a robust fourth quarter, surpassing analyst expectations with $7.93 billion in revenue and an adjusted EPS of $1.86, while its 2026 EPS guidance of $8.45 to $8.85 largely aligned with estimates despite a ~2% anticipated impact from tariff deals and Medicare changes.
- The U.S. is reportedly weighing the seizure of tankers transporting Iranian oil as a strategy to intensify pressure on Tehran, a move that could provoke retaliation and potentially drive global oil prices higher.
- TotalEnergies (TTE) has completed its acquisition of the remaining 45% stake in the Zeeland refinery from Russia's Lukoil, securing 100% ownership of the facility.
- Former President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the current economic landscape, stating "we’ve had a very good run" and forecasting a "great" 2026.
Gilead Sciences Exceeds Expectations with Strong Q4 Performance
Gilead Sciences (GILD) announced impressive fourth-quarter results, beating Wall Street's revenue and earnings per share (EPS) estimates. The biopharmaceutical giant reported $7.93 billion in revenue, exceeding the consensus estimate of $7.71 billion, and an adjusted EPS of $1.86, slightly above the $1.78 estimate. This strong performance was partly attributed to robust sales of its flagship HIV treatment, Biktarvy, and a new contribution from Yezitugo.
Looking ahead, Gilead provided its 2026 adjusted EPS guidance in the range of $8.45 to $8.85, which is largely consistent with analyst expectations of $8.76. The company noted that its 2026 outlook is expected to see a modest hit of approximately 2% due to recent tariff deals and changes in Medicare policies. Investors will be watching closely to see how these external factors impact future profitability.
Geopolitical Tensions Rise as U.S. Considers Iranian Oil Tanker Seizures
In a significant geopolitical development, the U.S. government is reportedly considering seizing tankers carrying Iranian oil as a means to exert further pressure on Tehran. This aggressive tactic, if implemented, carries the substantial risk of retaliation from Iran and could lead to an escalation in regional tensions, potentially driving global oil prices higher. Such a move would mark an intensification of the U.S. campaign against Iran's oil exports, which have faced sanctions for years.
Previous U.S. administrations have confiscated vessels transporting Iranian oil, often citing violations of sanctions. This latest consideration underscores the ongoing efforts to curb Iran's primary revenue source.
TotalEnergies Secures Full Ownership of Zeeland Refinery
TotalEnergies (TTE) has successfully acquired the remaining 45% stake in the Zeeland refinery in the Netherlands, previously co-owned by Russia’s Lukoil. This transaction grants the French energy major 100% ownership of the important European refining asset. The move comes amidst a broader reassessment by foreign partners of their joint ventures with Russian companies following international sanctions.
The Zeeland refinery, a key facility in the Netherlands, has been a joint venture between TotalEnergies and Lukoil for years. The full acquisition by TotalEnergies simplifies the refinery's ownership structure and solidifies the company's operational control.
Trump Offers Optimistic Economic Outlook for 2026
Former President Donald Trump shared a positive assessment of the current economic environment, stating, "we’ve had a very good run and he wants to keep it going." He further expressed confidence in the future, remarking that "2026 is going to be great." These statements reflect a generally optimistic view on the nation's economic trajectory and potential for continued growth.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.