Nvidia (NVDA), the rockstar of the AI chip world, is gearing up to drop its first-quarter earnings for fiscal 2026 after the market closes on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. This isn’t just another earnings report—it’s a massive deal that Wall Street is buzzing about. Everyone’s watching to see if Nvidia can keep its hot streak going, especially with trade tensions, a hefty $5.5 billion hit from China export rules, and whispers about whether the AI boom is cooling off. Let’s break down what’s coming and why it matters.

What Wall Street’s Betting On

Analysts are expecting Nvidia to crush it again, thanks to the crazy demand for its AI chips. Here’s the scoop on what they’re predicting for the quarter:

• Revenue: Around $43.28 billion, a huge 66.2% jump from last year’s $26.0 billion.

• Earnings Per Share (EPS): About $0.88, up 44% from $0.61 a year ago.

Those numbers are wild, showing Nvidia’s still the king of AI chips that power the data centers for big names like Meta, Microsoft, Amazon, and Google. But here’s the catch: that EPS is actually a tiny dip from last quarter’s $0.89, which has some folks wondering if Nvidia’s growth party might be slowing down a bit.

The Blackwell Buzz and Data Center Domination

Nvidia’s data center business is where the magic happens—it’s like 91% of their whole deal now. Last quarter, they raked in a record $35.6 billion from data centers alone, up 93% from the year before, thanks to their fancy new Blackwell chips and the trusty Hopper platform. Blackwell, in particular, is stealing the show, pulling in $11 billion in its first full quarter. That’s the fastest any Nvidia product has ever taken off.

This week, everyone’s dying to hear how Blackwell’s doing. Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, keeps saying these chips are perfect for both building AI models and running them, which could keep Nvidia ahead of the pack. With demand for Blackwell apparently through the roof, the big question is whether Nvidia can keep up with orders as they crank up production.

The China Curveball

Here’s where things get tricky. Nvidia’s taking a $5.5 billion hit this quarter because of new U.S. export rules that are basically shutting them out of China. Jensen Huang said these restrictions have already cost them $15 billion in potential sales there, and China used to be a fifth of their business. Now, it’s looking like it might drop to nearly nothing.

But some analysts, like the folks at Wedbush and Oppenheimer, aren’t sweating it too much. They think Nvidia’s got enough demand from places like the U.S. and even new markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE to make up for it. Nvidia’s been cozying up with partners in those regions, like a recent deal with Saudi Arabia’s Humain, to keep the growth train rolling. Still, investors want to know how Nvidia’s going to handle this China mess—maybe with a new chip that plays by the rules?

Why Nvidia’s Earnings Move the Market

Nvidia’s not just a company—it’s a market mover. Its stock, along with the other “Magnificent Seven” tech giants, has been fueling the market’s rally for years. A great report could light a fire under AI stocks, while a stumble might send shockwaves through tech land, especially with markets already jittery about tariffs and rising interest rates.

Over on X, traders are all over the place. Some are hyped, betting Nvidia’s stock could rocket to $145 or $150 if earnings are stellar. Others are bracing for a wild ride, pointing to that China hit and sky-high expectations. Options traders are guessing the stock could swing 7.4% the day after earnings, which is actually less dramatic than the 11.3% average from the last eight quarters.

What Else to Watch

While data centers are the main event, Nvidia’s got other stuff going on:

• Gaming: Their gaming business, think GeForce RTX cards, took a hit last quarter, dropping 11% to $2.5 billion. New Blackwell-based RTX 50 Series cards might give it a boost, but it’s still a side gig compared to data centers.

• Automotive: This one’s picking up speed, with a record $570 million last quarter, up 103% from last year. Deals with companies like Toyota and Aurora for self-driving cars are starting to pay off, showing Nvidia’s AI game isn’t just about servers.

How’s the Stock Doing?

Nvidia’s stock has had a bumpy 2025, down 2% so far this year after an insane 1,800% run over five years. Some worrywarts are talking about an “AI bubble,” with competitors like China’s DeepSeek offering cheaper options and Microsoft reportedly scaling back some data center plans. But recent trade talk progress, like a U.S.-China tariff truce, and Nvidia’s push into new markets have pushed the stock up to $131.29 as of Friday’s close.

Most analysts are still Team Nvidia, with 16 out of 18 tracked by Visible Alpha saying “buy” and a price target of $164—that’s 25% higher than now. Wedbush and Oppenheimer love Nvidia’s edge and upcoming chips like B300, Rubin, and Rubin Ultra. But Morningstar’s more cautious, saying the stock’s fairly priced at $125 and warning about trade risks and competition.

What to Listen for on the Call

When Jensen Huang hops on the earnings call at 5:00 p.m. ET, here’s what everyone’s dying to hear:

1. China Plan: How’s Nvidia dealing with that $5.5 billion hit? Is a new China-friendly chip in the works?

2. Blackwell Update: Is demand for Blackwell still crazy, and are supply issues easing up?

3. AI Spending: Are big tech companies still pouring cash into AI, or is the pace slowing?

4. What’s Next: Will Nvidia’s guidance for next quarter keep up its habit of beating expectations and raising the bar?

Hey there, investors! The stock market’s been a wild ride lately, with big global shifts and some juicy opportunities popping up. On May 19, 2025, I’m diving into the stocks and sectors catching everyone’s eye—think telecom giants, soda bottlers, and even crypto champs. Whether you’re playing it safe or chasing big gains, here’s the lowdown on what’s moving the needle today, written like we’re chatting over coffee.

Diving into options trading can feel like stepping into a high-stakes game—exciting, but a little daunting without the right tools. That’s where options profit calculators come in, acting like your personal trading sidekick to estimate potential wins, losses, and breakeven points before you make a move. With so many calculators out there, picking the perfect one can be a game-changer for your strategy. In this article, we’ll break down five top options profit calculators for 2025—OptionsProfitCalculator.com, OptionStrat, Unusual Whales, OptionsKit, and TradeVision—laying out their strengths and weaknesses to help you find the one that fits your trading style like a glove.

Gold is the belle of the ball in 2025, and it's not for its looks. With the prices shooting up to more than $3,400 an ounce, gold has become the darling of nervous investors that worry about international chaos, trade wars, and financial uncertainty. Gold stocks—interpret this as mining companies, royalty firms, and exploration companies—are reaping the benefits, making some fat returns. If you’re wondering which ones are stealing the show and whether they’ve got more juice left, let’s dive into the top performers, what’s fueling their success, and why they might just keep climbing.

What’s Got Gold Stocks So Hot?

Gold stocks are basically companies that dig, fund, or profit from gold, and they’re thriving for a few big reasons:

Gold Prices Are Through the Roof: Gold’s up nearly 31% this year, hitting $3,426.42 an ounce as of April 22. Trade tensions, geopolitical drama, and bets on Federal Reserve rate cuts are pushing it higher, which is like rocket fuel for gold companies’ profits.

Central Banks Are Hoarding: Countries like China and India are snapping up gold faster than you can say “bullion,” worried about currency risks and sanctions. That demand keeps prices high.

Safe-Haven Vibes: With Trump’s tariffs stirring the pot and markets feeling jittery, gold’s the ultimate “safe bet” for investors. Gold stocks get a boost from this nervous energy.

They’re Still a Bargain: Even with gold’s epic run, many gold stocks are trading cheaper than they should, based on their profits. That’s got investors eyeing them like a Black Friday deal.

Analysts are calling for gold to hit $3,600 or even $4,000 by year-end, so these stocks could have plenty of runway left.

The Gold Stocks Everyone’s Talking About

Here are five gold stocks that have been crushing it in 2025. They’re not just along for the ride—they’re delivering results, and they’ve got the chops to keep going.

1. Barrick Gold Corporation (GOLD)

2025 Gains: Up about 25%, with shares hovering around $22.

Why It's a Rockstar: It's one of the planet's biggest gold miners, and it's been cruising. Last year, it increased earnings by 69% and doubled free cash flow, boosted by off-the-charts gold prices. And it sold a piece of one of its biggest projects for $1 billion, providing its bankroll with a comfortable buffer. With an inexpensive valuation (P/E of 12.24) and a 1.8% dividend, it's a fan favorite.

Why It Might Keep Going: Barrick's got ambitions, such as expanding its Lumwana mine and advancing projects in Pakistan. Analysts are hoping prices rise to $22–$37 (CAD), and if gold reaches $3,600, Barrick's profits might go bananas.

2. Agnico Eagle Mines Limited (AEM)

2025 Gains: Up 20%, with shares nearing $70.

Why It’s a Rockstar: Agnico’s a gold miner that plays it safe, operating in stable places like Canada and Australia. It’s got a knack for keeping costs low and margins high (over 25%), which means more cash in its pocket. It also dabbles in silver and copper, giving it extra ways to make money. Oh, and it pays a 2.3% dividend to sweeten the deal.

Why It Could Keep Going: Agnico’s got a rock-solid balance sheet and analysts expect 9–10% growth in revenue and earnings this year. If gold keeps climbing, this one’s poised to shine even brighter.

3. Royal Gold, Inc. (RGLD)

2025 Gains: Up 18%, trading around $140.

Why It’s a Rockstar: Royal Gold doesn’t get its hands dirty mining—it funds projects and collects royalties or metal streams, which is a low-risk, high-reward gig. That setup means fat margins (over 30%) and steady cash flow. With low debt and a 1.2% dividend, it’s a safe way to bet on gold.

Why It Could Keep Going: Royal Gold’s tied to top-notch projects, so as gold prices rise, its profits do too. Analysts see 15% upside if gold ETFs start pulling in more cash, which seems likely.

4. Newmont Corporation (NEM)

2025 Gains: Up 15%, with shares around $45.

Why It’s a Rockstar: Newmont’s another heavy hitter, mining gold across North America, Africa, and Australia. It bought back $498 million of its own shares last year, which shows it’s feeling good about the future. Its cheap valuation (P/E of 12.44) and 2% dividend make it a solid pick for folks who like steady returns.

Why It Could Keep Going: Newmont’s growing its reserves and running a tight ship. Analysts expect 10% earnings growth, and if central banks keep gobbling up gold, Newmont could see even bigger gains.

5. Kinross Gold Corporation (KGC)

2025 Gains: Up 12%, trading near $9.

Why It’s a Rockstar: Kinross is a smaller player but still packs a punch. It’s generating strong cash flow (over $0.75 per share) and pays a 1.5% dividend. Even though it expects slightly less production this year, its low costs and analyst support (9–10% revenue growth) keep it in the game.

Why It Could Keep Going: Kinross is undervalued, so even if gold prices dip, it’s got some cushion. If gold keeps rallying, its profits could surprise to the upside.

Why These Stocks Could Keep Flying

Here’s why gold stocks like these might not be done yet:

Gold’s Going Higher: Experts from Goldman Sachs and others think gold could hit $3,600–$4,000 by December. That’s a big deal for gold stocks, since their profits soar when gold prices rise.

They’re Still Cheap: Gold stocks are trading at a discount compared to their profits, a setup that’s sparked big rallies before (like in 2015 and 2020). Some analysts think the gold miners’ index (GDX) could double.

The World’s a Mess: Trade wars, a ballooning U.S. debt ($36.383 trillion and counting), and global tensions are keeping investors nervous. That’s gold’s sweet spot, and gold stocks get a lift too.

ETFs Are Coming Back: With interest rates likely to fall, gold ETFs are expected to see more love as people ditch money market funds. More ETF buying means higher gold prices and happier gold stocks.

Central Banks Aren’t Stopping: They’ve scooped up 2,700 tons of gold since 2022 and show no signs of slowing down. That’s a huge tailwind for gold prices.

But Watch Out…

Gold stocks aren’t a sure thing. Here’s what could trip them up:

Gold Prices Could Cool: If trade tensions ease or the U.S. economy roars back, gold might lose its safe-haven appeal. Some analysts see it dropping to $3,060 if the Fed holds off on rate cuts.

Mining’s Not Easy: Rising costs, regulations, or trouble in places like Mali (where Barrick’s had issues) can hit profits.

Market Mood Swings: If investors get excited about Trump’s growth plans, they might ditch gold for riskier stocks, dragging gold stocks down.

How to Jump In

Want to get in on the gold rush? Here’s how:

Buy Individual Stocks: Pick winners like Barrick or Royal Gold for direct exposure.

Go for ETFs: The VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX) spreads your bet across lots of gold stocks, lowering the risk of one company flopping.

Try Gold Itself: Futures or physical gold are options, but they don’t give you the extra kick that gold stocks offer.

Most financial pros suggest keeping gold to 5–10% of your portfolio so you’re not putting all your eggs in one basket.

It was a chilly Monday morning, April 7, 2025, and for most folks, the day started like any other—coffee brewing, kids scrambling for school, the usual chaos. But in homes tied to the heartbeat of global trade, something felt off. By the time the sun peeked over the horizon, the news hit like a freight train: commodity prices—oil, metals, gold—were crashing hard. This wasn’t just numbers on a screen; it was livelihoods unraveling, dreams slipping away, and a world suddenly holding its breath.

Oil Towns Feel the Chill

In Midland, Texas, Jake Torres, a third-generation roughneck, stared at his phone in disbelief. Brent crude had tanked to $70 a barrel, and WTI wasn’t far behind at $65. “I’ve seen dips before,” he muttered to his wife, Maria, over breakfast, “but this? This feels different.” It was. President Trump’s new tariffs—10% on everything coming into the U.S., 34% on China, 25% on cars—had spooked the world. Less trade meant less oil needed, and Jake’s rig was one of dozens now facing shutdowns. Maria, a nurse, squeezed his hand. Gas might be cheap at $2.80 a gallon, but that didn’t pay their mortgage.

Across the Atlantic, in Aberdeen, Scotland, oil worker Fiona MacLeod got the call she’d dreaded: “No shifts this week.” Her husband, a fisherman, hadn’t seen a decent haul in months either. The tariffs were choking demand, and with China slashing factory output, the oil market was drowning. Fiona scrolled X, where folks raged about OPEC+ dragging its feet. “They’ll meet eventually,” she sighed, “but will it even matter?” Reuters reported that oil prices were at their lowest since 2021, a grim echo of her fears.

Metal Towns Brace for Silence

In Kitwe, Zambia, copper miner Chanda Mwape sat on his porch, watching kids kick a ball in the dust. The price of copper had nosedived to $3.50 a pound—down 8% overnight. “We were just getting back on our feet,” he told his neighbor, a fellow miner. The U.S. tariffs had slammed China’s factories, and with Jaguar Land Rover halting U.S. exports over the 25% vehicle hit, metal demand was vanishing. Chanda’s mine cut shifts, and rumors swirled of layoffs. His wife, a teacher, started calculating how long their savings could stretch.

In Pittsburgh, steelworker Tony Russo felt the same gut punch. Steel prices were down 12%, and his plant was eerily quiet. “Tariffs were supposed to save us,” he grumbled to his buddy over a beer. “Now we’re drowning in our own inventory.” The bar TV blared about Wall Street’s 2,000-point drop, but Tony’s world was the mill, and it was teetering.

Gold Loses Its Glow

Even the safe bets crumbled. In Reno, Nevada, retiree Linda Hayes checked her gold stash—her “rainy day fund.” It had dropped 3% to $2,450 an ounce. “I thought this stuff was supposed to hold up,” she said to her son on the phone. He explained the chaos: investors selling gold to cover stock losses after the tariff news. Silver was down too, 4% to $28. Linda’s nest egg shrank before her eyes, and with the dollar spiking, she wondered if cash under the mattress was the smarter play.

Everyday Lives Upended

The crash rippled everywhere. In Des Moines, Iowa, farmer Sarah Klein watched grain prices wobble as export demand faltered. Cheaper fuel helped, but not enough. “We’re barely breaking even,” she told her co-op friends, who nodded grimly. In Long Beach, California, dockworker Miguel Ortiz clocked out early—fewer ships, fewer hours. “Maersk’s got boats just sitting there,” he said, kicking a pebble. His daughter’s college fund felt further away than ever.

Back in New York, Wall Street was a madhouse. Priya Patel, a junior trader, watched the VIX hit 40, her heart racing. “It’s like 2020 all over again,” she texted her roommate. Her boss barked about Goldman Sachs slashing GDP forecasts to 0.5%, recession odds climbing. Priya’s bonus? Probably toast. She glanced at her phone—Bloomberg noted China might pump cash into its economy, a flicker of hope. But the pit in her stomach stayed.

On March 24, 2025, Boeing got some seriously good news that might just change its luck. President Donald Trump announced that the company snagged a massive $50 billion contract to build the Air Force’s next big thing: the F-47 fighter jet. This isn’t just any plane—it’s a cutting-edge, sixth-generation beast meant to keep the U.S. ahead of the game globally. Beating out Lockheed Martin for this prize has investors buzzing, and it’s easy to see why. So, let’s dive into what this deal is all about and what it could mean for Boeing’s stock ($BA).

The Deal: A Fresh Start for Boeing

Imagine being handed a golden ticket to build the future of air combat—that’s what Boeing just got. The F-47, part of the Air Force’s Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, is set to be a stealthy, lightning-fast jet loaded with the latest tech. It’s not just flying solo either; it’ll team up with drones to take on rivals like China or Russia. The first phase of this project is worth $50 billion, but if all goes well, it could turn into a multi-decade goldmine worth hundreds of billions as more jets roll out.

For Boeing, this feels like a much-needed win. Their defense division—Boeing Defense, Space & Security (BDS)—has had a rough ride lately. Think billions lost on projects like the KC-46 tanker and the new Air Force One, plus delays that made everyone cringe. This contract, based out of their St. Louis hub, could breathe new life into their fighter jet business, which has been slowing down lately. It’s a chance to get back on track and show they’ve still got it.

How the Stock Took Off

The market didn’t mess around with this news. Boeing’s stock ($BA) shot up as soon as the announcement hit—some saw it jump as much as 9.6% early on, hovering around $183 by the end of the day with a solid 5% gain. That’s billions added to their value in hours. Meanwhile, Lockheed Martin ($LMT), the runner-up, took a hit, dropping nearly 7%. Analysts were all over it: Melius Research bumped Boeing to a “Buy” rating with a $204 target, saying it’s finally time for some good vibes. Jefferies figured this could add about 25 cents per share to Boeing’s earnings down the road—not huge, but nothing to sneeze at.

You could feel the excitement online too. People on X were hyped, with some saying stuff like “Boeing’s got the wind at its back now” and “this could be a game-changer for their bottom line.” After years of bad headlines, from 737 MAX crashes to a machinist strike, it’s like investors are daring to hope again—especially with new leadership that seems to know what they’re doing. Curious about how these shifts play out in real time? Check out FastSwings.com’s Stocks to Watch for more on hot movers like Boeing.

What’s This Mean for Boeing’s Stock Down the Road?

Okay, the party’s started, but can Boeing keep it going? Here’s what’s on the table:

1. Cash and Confidence: That $50 billion is just the beginning. If the F-47 takes off (pun intended), it could mean steady paychecks for decades—way more than they’ve lost on past flops. This deal’s set up to be less risky too, with a structure that won’t leave them drowning if costs spiral. Each jet might cost $300 million, and if they build more than the F-22’s 180, it’s a cash cow in the making.
2. Fixing the Defense Blues: Boeing’s defense side has been a headache, bleeding $18 billion since 2014. This contract could flip the script, giving their 16,000-strong St. Louis crew something to celebrate—and maybe even opening doors to more government gigs. It’s a chance to stand tall next to Lockheed and Northrop Grumman again.
3. Stock Price Buzz: Boeing’s not cheap right now, trading at a pretty high multiple. But if this deal starts padding their profits, Wall Street might say it’s worth it. The catch? Their commercial side—still shaky from the MAX mess and that strike—needs to play nice too. If both parts click, $204 could be in sight, maybe more.
4. The What-Ifs: Here’s the flip side—Boeing’s messed up big projects before. If the F-47 hits snags or costs balloon, the cheers could turn to groans fast. Plus, who knows what future budgets or politics might do? Since it’s all hush-hush tech, we’re a bit in the dark, which keeps things interesting.

Ripple Effects

This isn’t just Boeing’s win—it’s a sign the U.S. is doubling down on defense, which could lift other players like GE Aerospace or Pratt & Whitney, who might power these jets. For a deeper look at how defense spending shakes up the market, Defense News has a great rundown. For anyone watching the market, it’s a heads-up: government deals can light a fire under stocks, even when bigger worries like inflation are lurking.

Hey, have you checked your investments lately? As of March 10, 2025, the stock market’s having a bit of a moment—and not the good kind. The S&P 500, that big index everyone watches, has dropped almost 6% in just over a week, wiping out all the gains it had this year. After 2024 was this amazing ride with new highs practically every other day, it’s like the market’s hit a wall. So, what’s going on, and is there a light at the end of the tunnel? Let’s figure it out together.

What’s Got the Market Freaking Out?

It all started with some big news out of Washington. The new Trump administration kicked off 2025 with some hefty tariffs—think taxes on stuff we buy from Canada, Mexico, and China. At first, people were pumped after the election; the market even jumped 2.5% in a day! But now? Everyone’s worried these tariffs are going to mess up supply chains and make everything more expensive. Companies might not make as much money, and that’s got investors running for the hills.

Then there’s the economy itself. I saw this thing from the Atlanta Fed saying growth might actually be negative this quarter—like, -2.4%. That’s a big swing from the 3.9% they thought earlier. The real kicker? People aren’t spending like they used to—barely 0.4% growth there. Since shopping’s basically what keeps the U.S. humming, that’s bad news. Oh, and companies that were killing it with 18% profit growth last year? They’re expecting a slowdown, maybe down to 5% soon. No wonder the market’s feeling shaky.

Could Things Turn Around?

Okay, it’s not all doom and gloom. There are a few things that could get us out of this funk—I’m crossing my fingers here.

1. The Fed Might Save the Day
   You know the Federal Reserve, those folks who control interest rates? They’ve already cut rates a bunch in 2024, and word on the street is they might do it again—maybe two or three times this year. Lower rates mean cheaper loans for businesses and us regular folks. If they pull that lever, it could give the market a big hug and get things moving again.
2. Tariffs Could Chill Out
   What if Trump’s team says, “Hey, maybe we went a little overboard”? Maybe they dial back the tariffs or work out some deals. Or what if companies figure out how to dodge the worst of it—like passing costs to us without totally tanking their sales? Less panic could mean more buying.
3. New Policies Could Bring the Party Back
   Trump’s been talking up tax cuts and fewer rules for businesses. If that stuff actually happens, it could be like a shot of espresso for companies and shoppers. I mean, who doesn’t love a little extra cash in their pocket? That could get the good vibes going again.
4. Big Companies Could Surprise Us
   Earnings season’s coming up, and if some of the big dogs—like tech giants or even steady health care companies—knock it out of the park, people might stop stressing. I’m still hoping the AI craze comes back strong; it’s been a wild ride these past couple years.
5. The World Might Pitch In
   Here’s something cool: other countries’ markets are actually doing okay. Europe and Asia are up 8% this year! If they keep it up, maybe we’ll catch some of that energy. A weaker dollar could help too—makes our stuff cheaper for them to buy.

What’s the Deal Long-Term?

Look, I get it—this dip feels rough, especially after last year’s winning streak. But I read somewhere that corrections like this happen all the time. The market’s had 24 of them since the ‘70s, and most don’t turn into a total crash. It’s more like a timeout than game over. Right now, people are piling into safer stuff like utilities and boring old staples—think toothpaste and power bills—but that could shift fast.

Imagine a sleepy stretch of farmland in Northwest Ohio suddenly buzzing with promise—new jobs, new faces, and a massive new factory humming along. That’s what’s coming to Defiance, Ohio, thanks to First Quality Tissue. On February 24, 2025, Governor Mike DeWine dropped the news that this family-run company is pouring $984 million into a shiny new plant here, bringing over 400 jobs and a whole lot of hope. It’s the biggest thing to hit Defiance County in, well, maybe forever.

What’s Happening in Defiance?

Picture this: a sprawling 1,000-acre patch off Baltimore Avenue, right now just fields and dreams, turning into a 1.6-million-square-foot factory. First Quality Tissue is setting up shop with two fancy machines—called TAD, if you’re curious—that’ll churn out the softest, cushiest toilet paper and paper towels you’ve ever squeezed. They’re aiming to flip the switch on the first one by early 2028, and if all goes well, they might break ground as soon as this year.

This isn’t just a win for the company. It’s a lifeline for folks around Defiance. Those 400+ jobs? They’ll pay around $56,000 a year on average—real money that’ll keep families local instead of chasing work elsewhere. Plus, there’ll be construction gigs, truck drivers, and small businesses popping up to keep the whole thing rolling. Erika Willitzer, the county’s economic development guru, couldn’t stop grinning when she called it “transformational.” She’s already hinting there might be more to come—maybe even extra machines down the road.

Ohio sweetened the deal with a $14.6 million boost last year to get the site ready—think roads, rail, and power lines—plus tax breaks and some extra help from JobsOhio. It beat out other states vying for the project, proving Defiance has something special going on.

Who Are These First Quality Folks?

First Quality Tissue is part of a bigger family story—First Quality Enterprises, started by Kambiz Damaghi and his crew after they left Iran for the U.S. over 30 years ago. They kicked things off in a little Pennsylvania town called McElhattan back in 1989, and now they’ve got over 4,000 people working for them across the country, plus a spot in Canada. From their headquarters in Great Neck, New York, they’ve built a quiet empire making stuff we all use—think cushy diapers (Cuties), pads for grown-ups (Prevail), and those ultra-soft Plenty paper towels you snag at the store. Want to know more about them? Check out their story on their official site.

The tissue side of things is their sweet spot. They’re all about that premium feel—bath tissue and towels so nice you almost feel bad using them. They’ve already got big plants in Pennsylvania and South Carolina cranking out rolls with those TAD machines (eight so far!), and Defiance will bring the count to ten. It’s a family business with heart, and their motto—“Make Things Better”—feels like it’s not just talk.

Why Defiance? Why Now?

So why’d they pick this corner of Ohio? It’s not just the tax breaks or the prepped land—though that helped. Defiance sits in a sweet spot between Fort Wayne and Toledo, with rail lines and highways close by. Governor DeWine and Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel keep saying Ohio’s got the workers and the grit to make big projects like this work. For a place like Defiance, where farming’s been king forever, this is a chance to keep kids from moving away and give families a shot at something stable.

I talked to a few locals (well, imagined I did!), and they’re buzzing. One guy pictured his son landing a job there instead of trucking off to Columbus. A mom wondered if the extra cash flowing in might finally fix up the high school gym. It’s not just about the numbers—it’s about what this could mean for people’s everyday lives.

The Bigger Picture

First Quality doesn’t spill the beans on their sales—they’re private, so they don’t have to—but you can tell they’re a big deal. Their Lock Haven plant alone pumps out over 700 million rolls a year. That’s a lot of TP! They’re going head-to-head with the likes of Charmin and Bounty in a market that’s worth billions, and they’re betting big on folks wanting softer, fancier stuff.

For the Damaghi family, it’s personal. They came to America with nothing, built this from scratch, and now they’re planting roots in places like Defiance. Every new factory feels like a nod to that journey—a chance to give back and keep growing.

In a dramatic turn in the technology industry, Intel Corporation (INTC) is at the center of discussions that will split its business in a strategic unbundling. Two technology behemoths, Broadcom Inc. (AVGO) and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), are in separate discussions to place takeover bids that will more likely split Intel's chip design and manufacturing capabilities. The possible revamp has electrified the stock market with profound implications for the respective actors.

The Strategic Divide

Intel, the once semiconductor titan, has been having a hard time holding on to market dominance, particularly in the foundry business. It was recently reported that Broadcom was interested in acquiring Intel's chip design and marketing businesses, and that TSMC would acquire its manufacturing business. It would effectively split Intel into two firms, one for design and the other for manufacturing, and perhaps inject new life into Intel's competitive position in the rapidly evolving technology sector.

Broadcom's desire to acquire Intel's design business is in line with its own business model of specializing in high-value chip design and allowing others to do the manufacturing. For TSMC, which is the world's largest contract chipmaker, it would be a further consolidation of leadership as it would help increase its presence in the United States through Intel's factories.

However, the talks are in the initial stage, and both companies have made it clear that they are not in formal partnership to clinch this deal. The talks are rather verbal, and no concrete proposals have been placed on the table before Intel yet. A separation like this, with its inherent complexity comprised of regulatory issues and assimilation of Intel's highly intertwined design and manufacturing processes, is fraught with difficulties.

Stock Market Reaction

The dramatic developments were greeted with eager interest by the stock market. Intel stocks rose 10% at one point during trading prior to the start of the stock market on February 18, 2025, in reaction to investor expectations of a restructuring. This is mostly because of speculation regarding an agreement that will enable Intel to streamline its operations and unlock shareholder value, say analysts.

Intel (INTC): The potential for a split has made Intel's stock price jump significantly, with the shares trading at a premium due to the promise of higher efficiency and focus in design and manufacturing following the split.

Broadcom (AVGO): Broadcom stock has remained robust, with investors wagering on the company's prospects for strengthening its product line with the help of Intel's design capabilities. The stock has registered modest gains, mirroring guarded optimism about the success of the transaction.

TSMC (TSM): The stock price of TSMC has also responded positively, though with lower volatility compared to Intel. Potential expansion of its U.S. manufacturing base may decrease geopolitical risk and increase supply chain resilience, a positive for long-term growth.

But regulatory concerns and the politics of allowing a foreign firm like TSMC to assume control of Intel's U.S. factories dampen the market ardor. The Trump administration has refrained from approving any such deal on national security and economic leadership grounds.

On Monday, popular project management and team collaboration software firm Monday.com Ltd. presented stellar performance for its fourth quarter, which was reflected in lifting its stock considerably.

Key Highlights of Q4 Earnings

The company announced that Q4 had earnings of $1.08 per share, over the consensus estimate of $0.79 per share. Revenue for the quarter came in at $267.98 million versus the expected $261.34 million. That's up 32% from a year ago, indicating the company saw good growth despite tough competition.

For the whole year of 2024, Monday.com's revenues totaled $972 million as it grew by 33% from a year ago. For Q4, its net dollar retention rate stood at 112%. This shows that the company is not only growing but also that customers are retaining and expanding within existing accounts. Free cash flow is $295.8 million or nearly 30% of its annual revenue.

Stock Details

Following the release, Monday.com's stock was up quite significantly. It started with about a 17% surge in pre-market open and continued to surge through the trading day, finally closing at a gain of about 31.5%. This goes to show a belief in their business model, growth strategy, and financial position by investors.

The positive stir in the market was for a number of reasons:

Earnings Beat: Besides earnings, it has given a bullish outlook for Q1 2025 as the revenue guidance stood at about $275 million against the consensus of $274 million, with operating income of around $26 million. Enterprise Expansion: That the enterprise customer expansion indeed finds favor and truth in the execution of the Monday.com strategy to expand into enterprises - finds expression in the high net dollar retention rate and the gain of great clients, one among those crucial contributors towards its revenue boost.
Product Development: Continuous improvement of products, enhancement of the platform, incorporation of new AI-related integrations, and new features are finding favor as well, further solidifying its market position against major competitors.

Market Background

This is in regard to the tech sector, which has been in focus, with investors keenly waiting for an indication of sustainable growth and profitability with high inflation and interest rate concerns. The performance of Monday.com becomes more relevant because it is reflective of business resilience and scalability in a vertical where most companies have failed to sustain growth trajectories.

Outlook

Going forward, Monday.com's management was fairly confident that such growth would spill into 2025 on the back of a strong product suite it has in its portfolio, deeper investments being made as the firm forays further into the enterprise space without compromising suitability for small and medium-sized businesses. The firm also will double exposure internationally in geographies witnessing increasing traction around digital transformation.