Key Takeaways
- Barrick Mining (GOLD) reported Q3 2025 adjusted EPS of 58 cents, missing estimates of 59 cents, and revenue of $4.15 billion against an estimated $4.33 billion. However, the company significantly exceeded free cash flow expectations at $1.48 billion compared to an estimated $685.4 million. Barrick also announced a $500 million increase to its existing share buyback program.
- Federal Reserve's Mary Daly stated that the U.S. economy has demonstrated resilience this year, but inflation, while showing a decline, remains elevated, and monetary policy is still modestly restrictive. She suggested that policymakers need to maintain an open mind about further rate cuts while simultaneously guarding against inflation risks and acknowledging the potential for a productivity boom leading to faster non-inflationary growth.
- The U.S. Senate voted 60 to 40 to advance the government funding bill through a procedural hurdle, bringing it closer to passage after a rare Sunday session where eight Democrats supported the measure.
Barrick Mining (GOLD) released its third-quarter 2025 results, showing a mixed financial picture. The company's adjusted earnings per share came in at 58 cents, slightly below the estimated 59 cents, and revenue reached $4.15 billion, falling short of the $4.33 billion consensus. Despite these misses, Barrick demonstrated robust financial health with a record $1.48 billion in free cash flow, significantly surpassing the estimated $685.4 million. In a move signaling confidence, Barrick also announced an additional $500 million for its share buyback program, increasing the total authorized amount.
Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco President Mary Daly offered insights into the current economic landscape and future monetary policy. She noted the economy's resilience this year, but emphasized that inflation, despite having declined, persists at an elevated level and that the current policy stance remains modestly restrictive. Daly also addressed the job market, attributing slowing job growth to a drop in demand for workers rather than supply limitations from immigration policies. She highlighted the need for the Fed to guard against inflation risks but also to consider the possibility of a productivity boom leading to faster, non-inflationary growth. Crucially, Daly stated that policymakers should keep an open mind about further rate cuts. She also mentioned that tariff-driven price increases are not spilling over into broader inflation.
In Washington, the U.S. Senate achieved a significant procedural step by voting 60 to 40 to advance a government funding bill. This vote, which saw eight Democrats join Republicans, moves the bill closer to passage and potentially averts a prolonged government shutdown. This development comes amidst concerns over consumer inflation expectations, which have reportedly slid due to a deterioration in the job market and personal finances.
On the international front, Iran confirmed that IAEA inspectors have visited some of its nuclear sites, including the Bushehr and Tehran Research Reactor facilities. Meanwhile, discussions within the European Union regarding a new sanctions package against Russia are ongoing, though its implementation this year remains uncertain. Japan is also reportedly considering an economic package that would aim for higher revenue without tax hikes, while also mulling measures related to chips, critical minerals, and defense.
In corporate news, OpenAI announced an initiative offering U.S. service members and veterans a free year of ChatGPT Plus if they are within 12 months of retirement or separation. This program aims to assist with career transitions. Additionally, OpenAI is reportedly weighing a move into consumer health apps. In the pharmaceutical sector, Roche's multiple sclerosis drug met its main goals in two late-stage trials.
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.