Key Takeaways
- Intel (INTC) shares surged more than 7% on reports that the Trump administration is considering the U.S. government taking a stake in the chipmaker, aiming to support domestic semiconductor manufacturing.
- Amazon (AMZN) achieved its goal of powering global operations with 100% renewable energy seven years ahead of schedule in 2023, and is now exploring new carbon-free sources like nuclear and battery storage to meet growing energy demands, particularly from generative AI.
- Brazilian digital lender Nubank (NU) reported a substantial 42% increase in net profit for its second quarter, reaching $637 million, driven by a strategic shift towards monetizing its large user base through layered financial services.
- HSBC (HSBC) plans a major global expansion of its office and staff surveillance, including more cameras and biometric access, according to internal documents.
Intel (INTC) stock experienced a significant rally, climbing over 7% following reports that the Trump administration is in discussions regarding a potential U.S. government stake in the chipmaker. This potential investment is aimed at bolstering Intel's efforts to expand domestic semiconductor manufacturing, including its previously delayed Ohio factory hub. The discussions reportedly emerged from a recent meeting between President Donald Trump and Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, marking a shift from earlier calls for Tan's resignation.
In a major sustainability achievement, Amazon (AMZN) announced it reached its target of powering its global operations with 100% renewable energy in 2023, seven years ahead of its initial 2030 goal. The e-commerce giant has invested billions in over 500 solar and wind projects worldwide, becoming the largest corporate purchaser of renewable energy for four consecutive years. Looking ahead, Amazon is now exploring additional carbon-free energy sources such as nuclear power and battery storage to complement renewables and address the increasing energy demands, particularly from generative AI.
Brazilian digital banking platform Nubank (NU) posted strong financial results for its second quarter, with net profit surging by 42% year-over-year to $637 million. This significant profit boost reflects the company's successful pivot from a hyper-growth customer acquisition strategy to a focus on monetizing its extensive user base through a broader array of financial services, including loans, insurance, and investment products. Nubank's average revenue per active customer (ARPAC) has also shown consistent improvement.
Meanwhile, banking giant HSBC (HSBC) is reportedly planning a substantial global expansion of its office and staff surveillance capabilities. Internal documents reveal intentions to increase the number of cameras and implement biometric access systems across its premises worldwide. This move comes amid broader discussions about corporate monitoring of employees.
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.