US-China trade deal optimism soars, but Macquarie warns deal is still far off

British American Tobacco (BAT) has decided to pause its unlicensed vape launch in the U.S. as regulatory actions by the FDA intensify. This move is significant as it reflects the growing scrutiny on vaping products and the potential impact on the market. With the FDA ramping up its efforts to regulate vaping, companies like BAT are facing increased pressure to comply with new standards, which could reshape the industry landscape.

U.S. stock futures are holding steady as investors await the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting, which could influence interest rates and market trends. Meanwhile, Amazon has announced significant job cuts, raising concerns about the company's growth and the broader economic landscape. This news is particularly important as it reflects the challenges many companies are facing in a fluctuating market, and it could impact consumer confidence and spending.

Japan's major companies, including SoftBank, are looking to play a significant role in a massive $550 billion investment package in the United States. This initiative is crucial as it not only strengthens economic ties between Japan and the US but also opens up new opportunities for growth and innovation in various sectors. The involvement of such heavyweights signals confidence in the US market and could lead to substantial job creation and technological advancements.

Japan's industry minister has announced that Japanese automakers will continue their strong investments in the U.S. This is significant as it highlights the ongoing commitment of these companies to the American market, which can lead to job creation and economic growth in both countries. The minister's statement reflects confidence in the U.S. economy and the importance of international partnerships in the automotive sector.

During a recent visit by Donald Trump, Japan's new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed her commitment to ushering in a 'golden age' in US-Japan relations. This pledge comes alongside a significant agreement on rare earths, which are crucial for technology and defense. Takaichi's intention to nominate Trump for a peace prize highlights the strengthening ties between the two nations, emphasizing a collaborative approach to security and economic interests. This development is important as it signals a renewed focus on international partnerships in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

Novartis is looking to expand its direct-to-patient platform as it prepares for a launch in the US. This move is significant as it reflects the company's commitment to enhancing patient access to its medications, potentially improving health outcomes and patient satisfaction. By leveraging technology to connect directly with patients, Novartis aims to streamline the process of obtaining treatments, making it easier for individuals to manage their health.

Qatar's Finance Minister has highlighted the crucial role of artificial intelligence in attracting U.S. investments. This statement underscores the growing importance of AI in global finance and investment strategies, signaling a shift towards more tech-driven economic partnerships. As countries increasingly recognize the potential of AI, this could lead to enhanced collaboration and innovation in various sectors.

China and ASEAN have signed an upgraded free trade pact, a significant move in response to US tariffs that have impacted their economies. This agreement aims to enhance trade relations and economic cooperation among member countries, showcasing their commitment to mutual growth and resilience against external pressures. It highlights the importance of regional partnerships in navigating global trade challenges.

Amundi's Q3 2025 earnings call revealed results that exceeded analysts' expectations, showcasing the company's strong performance in a challenging market. However, despite the positive earnings report, the stock experienced a dip, raising questions about investor sentiment and future growth. This situation highlights the complexities of market reactions, where good news can sometimes lead to unexpected stock movements.

Oil prices have dropped by 1% as investors are closely evaluating the impact of new sanctions on Russia and the output plans from OPEC+. This decline reflects growing concerns about the stability of the oil market amid geopolitical tensions and production strategies, which could influence global energy prices and economic recovery.

Royal Caribbean has announced that its quarterly profit is expected to fall below analysts' estimates due to rising expenses. This news is significant as it highlights the ongoing challenges the cruise industry faces in recovering from the pandemic, with increased operational costs impacting profitability. Investors and travelers alike will be watching closely to see how the company navigates these financial hurdles.

Edesa Biotech has announced promising Phase 3 results for its drug candidate aimed at treating Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). This development is significant as ARDS is a severe condition that can lead to respiratory failure, and effective treatments are urgently needed. The positive results could pave the way for regulatory approval and provide hope for patients suffering from this critical illness.

Commvault's shares dropped over 8% after the company reported its Q2 earnings, which fell short of expectations despite a revenue beat. This decline highlights the market's sensitivity to earnings performance, as investors reacted negatively to the overall results. The situation underscores the challenges companies face in balancing revenue growth with profitability, making it a crucial moment for Commvault as it navigates investor expectations.

ATI Inc has reported earnings that exceeded expectations by $0.12, along with revenue that topped estimates. This positive financial performance highlights the company's strong market position and effective management strategies, which could boost investor confidence and attract more interest in their stock.