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USA Rare Earth Stock Surges 8% on $2.8 Billion Serra Verde Acquisition Creating Global Rare Earth Powerhouse

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FTSE 100 Surges 0.8% Today as Oil Eases and Markets

NEW YORK — Shares of USA Rare Earth Inc. climbed more than 8% in early Monday trading on April 20, 2026, rising $1.60 to $21.55 after the company announced a major $2.8 billion deal to acquire Serra Verde Group, a move that instantly expands its access to producing mines and all four key magnetic rare earth elements while strengthening its position in the global supply chain.

USA Rare Earth
USA Rare Earth Stock Surges 8% on $2.8 Billion Serra Verde Acquisition Creating Global Rare Earth Powerhouse

The acquisition, unveiled early Monday, positions USA Rare Earth as a formidable player aiming to challenge China’s dominance in rare earths. Serra Verde operates a mine in Brazil that currently produces all four magnetic rare earths — neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium and terbium — essential for high-performance permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, defense systems and advanced electronics.

USA Rare Earth (NASDAQ: USAR) CEO Barbara Humpton described the transaction as transformative during a CNBC “Squawk Box” appearance. “This deal gives us immediate access to a producing mine with all four magnetic rare earths, accelerating our mine-to-magnet strategy and de-risking our supply chain,” she said.

The Serra Verde acquisition comes on the heels of several positive developments that have fueled investor enthusiasm. In recent weeks, the company completed first commercial yttrium metal production, appointed Chaitan Kansal as chief commercial officer, formed a strategic partnership in France through an investment in Carester, and advanced its Stillwater, Oklahoma magnet manufacturing facility.

Analysts reacted swiftly to the news. Wedbush initiated coverage with an “Outperform” rating, while other firms highlighted the deal’s potential to create one of the largest integrated rare earth platforms outside China. The stock’s surge reflected renewed confidence in USA Rare Earth’s ability to execute on its ambitious vertical integration plan, from mining at the Round Top deposit in Texas to magnet production.

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USA Rare Earth has aggressively built out its capabilities in recent months. It now holds 100% ownership of the Round Top project in West Texas after acquiring the remaining 18.6% stake from Texas Mineral Resources Corp. in March for approximately $73 million in stock. Round Top is considered one of the richest known U.S. deposits of heavy rare earth elements, gallium and beryllium, with commercial production targeted for late 2028 under an accelerated mining plan.

The company ended 2025 with $359.9 million in cash and no significant debt. Following a $1.5 billion PIPE financing that closed in late January 2026, its liquidity stood near $1.75 billion. Definitive documentation for an additional $1.6 billion in funding from the U.S. Department of Commerce under the CHIPS Program is expected to be finalized this month, subject to milestone achievements. This government support underscores Washington’s push to reduce reliance on Chinese-controlled supply chains for critical minerals.

The Serra Verde deal is expected to be funded through a combination of cash, stock and potentially new debt facilities, though specific terms were not fully detailed in the initial announcement. The transaction would provide USA Rare Earth with immediate production revenue and feedstock diversity, complementing its domestic assets and international processing partnerships in the UK and France.

Rare earths have gained heightened strategic importance amid U.S.-China tensions and the global transition to clean energy and advanced defense technologies. China controls roughly 94% of rare earth magnet production and an even higher share of heavy rare earth processing. USA Rare Earth’s integrated approach — mining, refining, metal production and magnet manufacturing — aims to create a secure Western alternative.

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The Stillwater facility commissioned its Phase 1A magnet production line earlier in 2026 and is on track for commercial output of sintered neodymium-iron-boron magnets. The company expects to scale capacity significantly, targeting over 10,000 metric tons of annual magnet production by the end of the decade. Recent milestones include successful yttrium metal output and ongoing hydrometallurgical demonstration work in Colorado.

Wall Street sentiment has turned increasingly bullish. Consensus price targets average around $29 to $30, with some analysts seeing potential for $35 or higher if execution milestones are met. The stock has shown strong year-to-date gains despite periodic volatility tied to broader market moves and sector-specific risks.

Critics note the high execution risk inherent in mining and materials projects. USA Rare Earth faces challenges including permitting timelines at Round Top, technical hurdles in scaling magnet production, potential cost overruns and competition from established players. Dilution from recent financings and acquisitions has also been a concern for some shareholders, though the influx of capital has strengthened the balance sheet.

The company’s leadership team has been bolstered with executives experienced in government relations, commercial strategy and international operations. CEO Humpton, formerly of Siemens, has emphasized disciplined capital deployment and partnerships with major manufacturers in automotive, defense and renewable energy sectors.

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Broader market context on Monday included mixed trading amid ongoing Middle East tensions that have lifted commodity prices. Rare earth stocks have benefited from renewed focus on supply security, with USA Rare Earth standing out due to its combination of domestic assets, government backing and now expanded international production access.

For investors, the Serra Verde acquisition represents a step change. Instead of relying solely on future development at Round Top, USA Rare Earth gains near-term cash flow and operational expertise from a producing asset. The deal also diversifies geographic risk while maintaining focus on high-value magnetic rare earths critical for national security and economic competitiveness.

Looking ahead, key catalysts include finalization of the $1.6 billion Commerce Department funding in April, progress updates on the Stillwater plant, and further details on the Serra Verde integration. First-quarter 2026 results and any supply agreements with major customers could provide additional momentum.

USA Rare Earth’s market capitalization has grown substantially as it transitions from a development-stage company to an emerging producer. The stock’s recent performance reflects growing recognition that reshoring critical mineral supply chains is a multi-year priority with bipartisan support in Washington.

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While risks remain — including regulatory delays, commodity price fluctuations and geopolitical factors — the combination of strong funding, operational milestones and the Serra Verde transaction has investors betting on USA Rare Earth’s ability to capture a meaningful share of the global rare earth market.

As trading continued Monday morning, the 8%+ gain held with elevated volume, signaling broad participation from both institutional and retail investors. The move extended recent positive momentum following yttrium production news and the chief commercial officer appointment last week.

USA Rare Earth’s story is part of a larger U.S. effort to build resilient supply chains for technologies of the future. With Serra Verde now in the fold, the company moves closer to its goal of becoming a global champion in rare earth elements, oxides, metals and magnets — delivering materials essential for innovation and security while creating long-term shareholder value.

Whether the latest surge proves sustainable will depend on continued execution. For now, the market appears to be rewarding USA Rare Earth’s bold expansion strategy in a sector where geopolitics and national priorities increasingly drive investment decisions.

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ETMarkets Smart Talk | Financials, industrials, healthcare top picks for FY27: Nimesh Chandan

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ETMarkets Smart Talk | Financials, industrials, healthcare top picks for FY27: Nimesh Chandan
As FY27 begins on a volatile note amid geopolitical tensions, rising crude oil prices, and concerns around interest rates, investors are grappling with uncertainty over near-term market direction.

In this environment, Nimesh Chandan, Chief Investment Officer, Bajaj Finserv Asset Management Limited believes that while short-term headwinds may weigh on earnings and sentiment, the broader structural story of the Indian economy remains firmly intact.

In an interaction with Kshitij Anand of ETMarkets, Chandan highlights that current market corrections have brought valuations closer to fair levels, creating opportunities for long-term investors willing to look beyond near-term noise.

He identifies Financials, Industrials, and Healthcare as key sectors poised to benefit from India’s ongoing economic and credit cycle upturn, supported by improving earnings visibility and reasonable valuations.

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He also advises investors to stay disciplined—either deploying lump sum capital if they can absorb volatility or adopting a staggered approach via SIPs or STPs—while maintaining a minimum three-year investment horizon. Edited Excerpts –


Q) Thanks for taking the time out. We have entered FY27 on a volatile note amid geopolitical concerns, rising oil prices, possibility of rise in interest rates etc. Where do you see markets headed?
A) Unfortunately, we seem to have hit a speed bump in an otherwise strong growth year. Due to the geopolitical concerns and rising oil prices, there is a possibility that there could be some slowdown in economic growth and profit growth in the first half.
A small cut in earnings cannot be ruled out if this crisis continues for a bit longer. If this war in West Asia resolves quickly, as is widely expected right now with the ceasefire, there is a possibility that there is no significant earnings cut for FY27.
Our base remains that Indian economy, business cycle and the credit cycle are on an upturn. We have a positive stance on the earnings growth for FY27 and FY28. We are currently trading below intrinsic value for the Nifty 50 Index.

Q) What should investors do who are planning to put fresh money say Rs 10 lakh in markets? What should be the sectoral allocation?
A) Investors who can handle near-term volatility can put a lumpsum amount right now. Valuations are fair, but because of the geopolitical crisis, there could be near-term volatility. Other investors may stagger their investment through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) or SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) as a route.

However, they should have at least three-year view when they are investing in the equity markets. From a sectoral perspective, we like Financials, Materials, Industrials, Healthcare and Consumer Discretionary. We believe large private banks as a category are available at good valuations.

We have been positive on pharma, specifically CRAMS (Contract Research & Manufacturing Services) and hospitals. We are equal-weighted on consumer discretionary as we are positive on long term prospects of the sector.

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However, we are selective in this sector, evaluating companies on the potential impact of high energy and material prices on them. Within Industrials, we prefer Defence and Power.

Q) FIIs have remained net sellers in Indian equity markets withdrawing Rs 1.6 lakh cr. What will reverse the flows?
A) The India–US trade agreement earlier helped stem the FPI outflows that India had been witnessing over the past year. However, the recent escalation in geopolitical tensions in the Middle East has triggered a renewed phase of outflows.

Given India’s heavy dependence on imported crude oil, rising oil price uncertainties tend to weigh on investor sentiment in the near term.

That said, we view this as a transitory phase. As the geopolitical situation stabilizes and recovery gains traction, India’s relative valuation attractiveness compared to other emerging markets should support a revival in FPI inflows.

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The key variables to monitor remain the evolution of the West Asia crisis and a moderation in crude oil prices.

Q) How do you see the currency moving in the next few months?

A) The INR has seen a sharp correction, first due to tariffs, FPI outflows and now crude spike and higher gold prices. We are the world’s largest importers of gold and most of our crude requirements are imported. These exert a lot of pressure on the INR.

If the geopolitical crisis abates and the crude cools off, we believe the pressure on the INR could ease at these levels. Falling INR is also an opportunity. A contrarian view we hold is that, this depreciation of currency will create huge export opportunity for Indian manufacturing sector.

Q) You have seen many market cycles and I am sure this one is no different. Things which one should avoid doing at current juncture?
A) Clearly, investors should avoid getting fearful in these equity markets. We did a very simple analysis at Bajaj Finserv AMC. We observed that the markets correct every time crude prices have crossed $100 per barrel.

The investors who have used that correction to invest have made healthy returns in almost all cases over the next three to five years.

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Hence, the only thing the investors should not do right now is panic, be fearful, or be very myopic. This is a good opportunity from an equity investor’s perspective because of the corrections in valuation. Investors should focus on fundamentals, be patient, and stick to their asset allocation plan.

Q) How do you see Gold and Silver moving in FY27?
A) Gold and silver have already witnessed a strong rally, and from here, returns are likely to be more measured rather than sharply bullish. These assets should be viewed primarily as portfolio hedges rather than return-chasing opportunities.
Gold is expected to continue playing its role as a key diversifier, especially amid ongoing global uncertainties.

Silver, on the other hand, may remain relatively more volatile due to its higher linkage to global growth and industrial demand.

At this stage, investors should avoid chasing the rally in precious metals and instead use them strategically within portfolios for diversification rather than for aggressive return expectations.

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Q) After the recent correction, do you see Indian markets trading at reasonable valuations vs developed or emerging markets?
A) From 2021 till Sept 2024, Indian markets outperformed other emerging markets by 70-80%. Since then, Indian has underperformed by more than 40%. This has brought valuations closer to fair value at an aggregate level.

Growth is recovering, interest rates are lower and hence in many pockets of the market, valuations are attractive.

From a global perspective, India continues to command a premium over both developed and emerging markets. This premium reflects strong growth visibility and better capital efficiency of corporate India.

Q) Which sectors are likely to hog the limelight in FY27 after the recent fall?
A) In the current environment, investors should avoid crowded trades and instead focus on sectors offering earnings visibility alongside reasonable valuations. Domestic cyclicals such as capital goods, manufacturing, and infrastructure are well-positioned to benefit from India’s ongoing capex cycle.

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Financials, including banks and select NBFCs, should continue to see steady support from credit growth and overall economic momentum.

Within consumption, opportunities exist but are selective in nature, with a preference for segments where demand visibility remains strong. Information Technology may hog the limelight but due to worries on the US economy and developments in AI.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by experts are their own. These do not represent the views of the Economic Times)

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Almonty: Memory Supercycle And Iran War Cause Tungsten Shortage, Making This Stock A Buy

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Almonty: Memory Supercycle And Iran War Cause Tungsten Shortage, Making This Stock A Buy

This article was written by

Hello. I am a graduate from Bocconi University with a degree in Economics and a concentration in Quantitative Economics. I am currently working at a management consultancy, with aspirations of working as an investment analyst.I primarily invest in growth stocks, with a focus on highly innovative sectors, particularly tech and energy. My portfolio consists of mainly high-conviction growth plays – ranging from large-cap tech to speculative early-stage ventures. I aim to provide sound, quantitative analysis through deep fundamental insights on target companies within the context of the sector they operate in & broader macro conditions.

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of ALM either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.

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ACM Research: Let's Go To Hong Kong

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ACM Research: Let's Go To Hong Kong

ACM Research: Let's Go To Hong Kong

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Is Lakers Star Walking Normally Yet?

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Luka Doncic

LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic continues to battle a Grade 2 left hamstring strain that has sidelined him since early April, raising questions among fans about his mobility and potential return during the NBA playoffs.

Doncic suffered the injury on April 2 during a 139-96 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. He tweaked the hamstring earlier in the contest but attempted to play through it before it worsened on a deceleration move. An MRI the following day confirmed a partial tear of muscle fibers, a moderate injury that typically causes limping and pain with activity.

The Lakers ruled Doncic out for the remainder of the regular season, with his playoff status initially uncertain. A Grade 2 hamstring strain usually requires three to six weeks of recovery, depending on treatment and individual response. For a player of Doncic’s size and usage rate, caution remains paramount to avoid re-injury.

To accelerate healing, Doncic traveled to Europe for specialized medical treatment. His agent, Bill Duffy, confirmed the decision, noting consultations with Lakers doctors and Doncic’s personal medical team. Reports indicated the Slovenian star underwent regenerative therapies, including injections in Spain, aimed at promoting faster tissue repair. He was also spotted courtside at a Real Madrid EuroLeague game alongside Novak Djokovic and spent time with family in Slovenia.

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As of mid-April, Doncic had returned to Los Angeles and rejoined the Lakers. Coach JJ Redick provided an upbeat update, describing the 27-year-old as “in good spirits” after speaking with him upon landing. Redick joked about not having seen him yet but expressed excitement for his presence around the team.

Recent reports offer mixed signals on his day-to-day mobility. Medical experts note that patients with a Grade 2 strain often limp when walking initially and experience occasional twinges. While no official confirmation exists that Doncic has resumed full running or basketball-specific movements, sources indicate he is aggressively attacking rehabilitation. He has been seen back at practice facilities, though the team has not detailed exact activities like walking without a limp or light jogging.

As of Tuesday, April 21, Doncic remains officially ruled out for the Lakers’ playoff games, including Game 2 against the Houston Rockets. He is listed as out indefinitely alongside Austin Reaves, who is dealing with his own Grade 2 oblique strain. The Lakers entered the postseason shorthanded, facing the Rockets in the first round after securing a playoff spot.

Optimism persists for a potential return. Some reports point to a target around May 1 — roughly four weeks post-injury — which could align with later stages of the first round or the second round if the Lakers advance. However, no firm timeline has been announced, and Redick has emphasized a measured approach. Rushing back risks turning a partial tear into a more severe issue that could sideline Doncic for months.

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Doncic averaged 33.5 points, 7.7 rebounds and 8.3 assists per game this season while leading the NBA in scoring. His absence has forced the Lakers to rely on supporting players, including LeBron James, in a challenging series. The team has stressed patience, with medical staff monitoring progress closely through evaluations expected in the coming days.

Hamstring injuries pose unique challenges for high-volume players like Doncic, who relies on explosive changes of direction and deceleration. Recovery protocols typically progress from rest and protection to controlled mobility exercises, then strengthening, and finally sport-specific drills. Walking without a noticeable limp often marks an early milestone, followed by light running around the three-to-four-week mark for many athletes.

Public sightings and social media have fueled speculation. Videos and photos have circulated showing Doncic moving around the practice court, though details on gait or pain levels remain private. Team insiders describe him as focused and mentally prepared, but emphasize that full clearance depends on objective tests like strength symmetry and pain-free function.

The Lakers’ playoff hopes hinge partly on Doncic’s availability. Without him, the roster has shown resilience but lacks the offensive firepower that made them contenders. If he returns, even at limited minutes, his playmaking and scoring could shift series momentum. Yet experts warn against expectations of an immediate impact, noting that returning athletes often need time to regain rhythm and confidence.

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Doncic’s history with lower-body issues adds context. He has dealt with various muscle strains and contusions in past seasons, though this Grade 2 hamstring marks a significant setback. The decision to seek treatment abroad reflects both the injury’s seriousness and the high stakes of postseason basketball.

As the series against Houston unfolds, daily updates from the Lakers’ training staff will be critical. Redick has reiterated that both Doncic and Reaves will not be re-evaluated until later in the week, keeping their status fluid but currently sidelined.

Fans have flooded social media with well-wishes and questions: Is he walking normally yet? Has he started light jogging? While concrete answers remain limited, the consensus from recent reporting is cautious progress. Doncic is mobile enough to travel and engage with the team, but full basketball activity — including unrestricted walking, running and cutting — appears weeks away at minimum.

The organization continues to prioritize long-term health over short-term gains. A premature return could jeopardize not only this postseason but future seasons for the franchise cornerstone, who was acquired in a major trade and has elevated the Lakers’ contention window.

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Looking ahead, if the Lakers advance, Doncic could provide a boost in the conference semifinals. Medical projections for Grade 2 strains suggest that with advanced treatments like those he received, some athletes shave time off standard timelines. Still, conservative management remains the priority.

Doncic himself has stayed relatively quiet on social media regarding specifics, focusing instead on recovery and family time. His presence around the team, even if limited to the sidelines or practice observation, has boosted morale according to reports.

The NBA community watches closely. Analysts debate whether the Lakers can survive the first round without their leading scorer or if his potential mid-series return could spark a Cinderella run. For now, the focus stays on incremental gains: better mobility, reduced pain and gradual loading of the hamstring.

As Tuesday’s Game 2 approaches, the injury report lists only Doncic and Reaves as out, with no new setbacks reported. Kevin Durant of the Rockets is questionable with his own knee issue, adding another layer of intrigue to the matchup.

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Lakers fans and NBA observers alike await the next update. While Doncic may not yet be sprinting or cutting at full speed, signs point to steady improvement in his overall condition. Whether he is walking without a limp remains unconfirmed publicly, but the trajectory suggests the star is making strides toward a possible playoff contribution.

The coming days and weeks will determine if specialized European treatment pays dividends. For a player who has transformed the Lakers’ offense, every step in recovery carries weight — literally and figuratively.

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Alphabet Stock Dips 0.57% as Investors Await Q1 Earnings Amid Massive AI Spending Push

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Facebook's new rebrand logo Meta is seen on smartpone in front of displayed logo of Facebook, Messenger, Intagram, Whatsapp, Oculus in this illustration picture taken October 28, 2021.

NEW YORK — Alphabet Inc. Class C shares slipped modestly in early Monday trading on April 20, 2026, falling $1.92, or 0.57%, to $337.48 as Wall Street braced for the tech giant’s first-quarter earnings report later this week and weighed the long-term costs of its aggressive artificial intelligence infrastructure buildout.

Google has fired another lead artificial intelligence ethics researcher
Alphabet Stock Dips 0.57% as Investors Await Q1 Earnings Amid Massive AI Spending Push
AFP / Robyn Beck

The parent company of Google closed Friday at $339.40 after posting a solid 1.99% gain for the session, but opened the new week with light selling pressure. The modest decline came against a backdrop of renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East that sent oil prices higher and contributed to a cautious tone across broader markets.

Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG) has delivered strong performance over the past year, with shares up more than 120% in the trailing 12 months, driven largely by momentum in Google Search, accelerating growth at Google Cloud and investor enthusiasm for its Gemini AI models. Yet concerns about elevated capital expenditures — projected as high as $185 billion for 2026 — have created periodic volatility as investors question the near-term impact on margins and free cash flow.

Analysts expect Alphabet to report first-quarter revenue of approximately $107 billion when it releases results after the market close on April 29, reflecting continued double-digit growth. Earnings per share are forecast around $2.61 to $2.76. Investors will pay particularly close attention to guidance on cloud performance, AI monetization progress and any updates to the full-year capital spending outlook.

“Alphabet continues to execute well on the top line, but the market is laser-focused on whether the massive AI-related investments will start pressuring profitability in a meaningful way,” said one technology sector analyst who declined to be named because he was not authorized to speak publicly. “The stock has pulled back from its February highs, creating what some see as an attractive entry point ahead of earnings.”

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Google Cloud has been a standout performer, with recent quarters showing revenue acceleration fueled by demand for AI infrastructure and enterprise adoption of Gemini-powered tools. The segment’s growth has helped offset any softness in advertising amid economic uncertainty, though advertisers continue to navigate shifts in digital spending patterns.

The company’s heavy investment in data centers, custom AI chips known as TPUs, and networking equipment reflects CEO Sundar Pichai’s commitment to maintaining leadership in generative AI. Alphabet raised its 2026 capital expenditure guidance earlier this year to between $175 billion and $185 billion, far exceeding previous expectations and nearly double the amount spent in 2025. While executives have emphasized that these outlays are already driving increased usage and revenue, some investors worry about accelerated depreciation and higher energy costs squeezing operating margins.

Recent partnership announcements have bolstered confidence. Alphabet expanded collaborations with chipmakers, including discussions with Marvell Technology for new AI accelerators and continued work with Broadcom on TPUs. The company also secured long-term supply agreements and deepened ties with enterprises through Google Cloud, including deals involving energy infrastructure to power its expanding data center footprint.

Antitrust scrutiny remains a persistent overhang. Google faces ongoing appeals in U.S. cases where it was found to have illegally monopolized online search and advertising technology markets. Potential remedies could include changes to default search deals or data-sharing requirements, though the company has successfully fended off some related lawsuits from news publishers and others. In Europe, regulators continue to examine compliance with the Digital Markets Act, adding another layer of regulatory risk.

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Despite these challenges, Alphabet’s core business demonstrates remarkable resilience. Google Search benefits from AI overviews that enhance user engagement, while YouTube and other advertising platforms show steady demand. The company’s “Other Bets” segment, which includes Waymo’s autonomous driving efforts, continues to incur losses but represents long-term optionality in emerging technologies.

Alphabet’s balance sheet remains fortress-like, with substantial cash reserves that provide flexibility for both investments and potential shareholder returns. The company pays a modest dividend and has engaged in share repurchases, though the scale of AI spending has tempered expectations for aggressive buybacks in the near term.

Monday’s trading volume remained relatively light as many investors positioned themselves ahead of the April 29 earnings release. Broader market sentiment was influenced by weekend developments in U.S.-Iran tensions, which raised energy costs and prompted some rotation out of growth stocks. Technology shares, including other mega-cap names, showed similar early softness.

Wall Street consensus remains largely bullish on Alphabet. Several firms, including TD Cowen and KeyBanc, have raised price targets in recent weeks, with some calling for $375 or higher. The average target suggests meaningful upside from current levels, assuming the company can demonstrate that its AI bets are translating into sustainable competitive advantages and revenue growth.

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For retail investors, the current dip near $337 offers a reminder of Alphabet’s sensitivity to macro headlines and spending concerns, even as fundamentals appear solid. The stock trades well above its 200-day moving average but remains below the all-time highs reached earlier in 2026.

Looking beyond the immediate earnings horizon, analysts will scrutinize several metrics: cloud revenue growth rate, the contribution of AI products to search and advertising, progress on cost discipline, and any commentary on the competitive landscape against rivals like Microsoft, OpenAI and Amazon.

Pichai and Chief Financial Officer Ruth Porat are expected to highlight how AI investments are creating an “expansionary moment” for Search and unlocking new opportunities across the business. At the same time, they will likely address the timeline for these expenditures to generate returns and any potential impact on 2026 free cash flow.

The upcoming report arrives at a pivotal time for the broader AI trade. While enthusiasm for generative AI remains high, questions about ROI timelines and infrastructure costs have led to periodic pullbacks across the sector. Alphabet’s ability to articulate a clear path from heavy spending to profitable growth could reassure investors and support a post-earnings rebound.

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In the longer term, Alphabet’s vast data advantage, global reach and engineering talent position it strongly in the AI era. Gemini models have shown rapid improvement, with integration across products helping to drive usage. Waymo continues to expand robotaxi services in select cities, offering another potential growth vector.

Regulatory risks, while real, have not derailed the stock’s upward trajectory over the past year. Shares have climbed substantially even after adverse court rulings, reflecting confidence that remedies may prove less severe than feared or that appeals could mitigate impacts.

As trading continued Monday morning, the modest 0.57% decline appeared more like routine consolidation than a fundamental shift in sentiment. With earnings just days away, many market participants were holding positions rather than making aggressive moves.

Alphabet Inc., with a market capitalization still among the world’s largest, continues to navigate the dual challenges of executing on its ambitious AI vision while managing regulatory and macroeconomic crosscurrents. The slight dip to $337.48 on April 20 served as a quiet pause before what could be a defining week for one of tech’s most influential companies.

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Investors will watch closely not only for the headline numbers but for forward-looking commentary that either validates the heavy spending or raises fresh questions about its pace and returns. In a year defined by AI infrastructure wars, Alphabet’s next chapter may hinge on proving that its massive bets will pay off handsomely for shareholders.

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Google Brings New AI Travel Features to Help With Your Trips This Summer

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AI Mode

Google is rolling out new features that are sure to help you with your ongoing and upcoming trips.

From helping find the cheapest flights there is and booking restaurants or other places to helping them purchase items that they forgot to pack, Google is putting its platform front and center of traveling in 2026.

Google Brings New AI Travel Features

Google shared in its latest blog post that it is upgrading its apps and experiences to deliver more travel assistance features to users, with AI taking center stage in this rollout.

First, Google is adding several features to enjoy under its AI Mode, the dedicated AI-only experience on the platform’s search engine, as all outputs will appear as a singular AI-generated write-up instead of separate search results.

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Users may now ask AI Mode, under the Canvas tool, to create a custom trip plan for them, and users may specify their preferences, schedule, things or places to consider, and more.

Under AI Mode, users may also ask Google to book their restaurants for them by telling the platform that they need a table for a specific number of people and the type of cuisine they prefer. According to Google, it will help users find openings and reservations in real-time.

Enjoy Your Trips with Google

Apart from being able to book restaurants and building a custom trip plan for your upcoming vacation, Google also said that it will help you find the items you need but forgot to pack.

This feature is also added right into Google Search’s AI Mode, and when using this feature, users only need to describe the things or items they want AI Mode to find.

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For example, if the user forgot to bring sunscreen, AI Mode can help find a store that sells sunscreens.

Not only can Google find a store for them to purchase, but its agentic feature can also go ahead and call the store to find out if there are actual stocks at the said location before suggesting it for users to visit.

Originally published on Tech Times

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Analysis-Once shunned, activist investors dig in to win in Japan

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Analysis-Once shunned, activist investors dig in to win in Japan


Analysis-Once shunned, activist investors dig in to win in Japan

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Trade between Thailand and the United States exceeded US$110 billion in 2025

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February 2026 Export Growth Slows as Imports Reach 50-Month Peak

In 2025, Thailand-U.S. trade surpassed $110 billion, highlighting strong ties but exposing trade barriers. Key issues include automotive standards, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural access as both countries negotiate a trade agreement.


Key Points

  • Trade between Thailand and the U.S. exceeded $110 billion in 2025, reflecting strong economic ties.
  • Key trade barriers of concern for Washington include U.S. automotive standards, approval for pharmaceuticals and medical devices, and increased access for American agricultural products.
  • Ongoing negotiations aim for a reciprocal trade agreement, emphasizing the removal of non-tariff barriers in prioritized sectors.

Economic Growth in Trade Relations

Trade between Thailand and the United States escalated past US$110 billion in 2025, demonstrating the deepening economic relationships between the two nations. However, this impressive trade figure conceals a myriad of trade barriers that the U.S. government is pressing Thailand to resolve. Key areas of concern highlighted by Washington include the recognition of U.S. automotive standards, expedited approval processes for pharmaceuticals and medical devices, and broader access for American agricultural products in the Thai market. Despite the optimistic trade figures, these unresolved issues pose significant challenges in the bilateral trade landscape.

Ongoing Negotiations and Commitments

The latest report from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) emphasizes the dual nature of the trade relationship, revealing both the opportunities for growth and the challenges that must be navigated. As discussions continue, the focus remains on establishing a reciprocal trade agreement that aims to promote broader trade liberalization. Following a joint statement issued by both parties in October 2025, Thailand has made several commitments to address U.S. concerns. Among these, the foremost commitment prioritized by the U.S. is the elimination of non-tariff barriers in key sectors such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.

Conclusion and Future Outlook

The evolving trade landscape between Thailand and the U.S. signifies a crucial partnership that holds the potential to enhance economic growth for both nations. However, the realization of this potential depends on Thailand’s willingness to address and resolve the trade barriers highlighted by the U.S. The commitment to eliminate non-tariff barriers is a vital step toward creating a more favorable trade environment. As both countries work together to finalize agreements and strengthen their relationship, they will pave the way for a future marked by increased trade efficiency and mutual benefits.

Source : Trade between Thailand and the…

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Hyperion inks deal for 3D printed house

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Hyperion inks deal for 3D printed house

A Perth company founded by a 24-year-old and already famed for its ability to print an entire boat hull in a day will turn its attention to housing, with the first-ever 3D printed home from entirely recycled plastic in the southern hemisphere.

Hyperion Systems revealed today it inked a deal with Fremantle-based residential property builder Little Castles Small Homes for the construction of the first modular 3D printed tiny home built out of entirely recycled plastic.

The home will be built using Hyperion Systems‘ TitanCell mobile 3D printing unit, which is housed inside either a 20-foot or 40-foot shipping container, and can be deployed in under 24 hours, print up to 30 kilograms per hours.

Capable of 3D printing parts up to 10-metres in length and dubbed a ‘factory-in-a-box’, the self-contained, industrial scale 3D printing unit is transportable and can be immediately operated on-site or managed remotely.

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The technology combines custom-built hardware with proprietary software and pellet-based plastic feedstock – either new or recycled – and offers integrated machining capabilities, allowing parts to go from design to final product in a single setup.

In this particular case, the feedstock will be entirely recycled plastic.

Hyperion Systems founder and chief executive Joshua Wigley, who started the company at just 24, said the contract represented a major milestone in sustainable construction and advanced manufacturing in Australia.

Now 28-years-old, Mr Wigley said core components for the tiny homes will be manufactured in modular sections at Hyperion’s facility in Henderson, before the final fit-out and completio nby Little Castles on-site.

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“We will be using recylced polymers as our base feedstock and through the intellectual property we have developed in-house we will be able to print the core structure for a tiny home in around 48 hours,” he said.

The entirely recycled polymer build will be termite resistent and have beneficial thermodynamic properties.

“This build will mark the first 3D printed polymer house in the Southern Hemisphere, positioning Western Australia at the forefront of innovative, sustainable housing solutions,” Mr Wigley said.

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“This project represents a breakthrough in how we think about construction. By using recycled plastics and advanced manufacturing techniques, we are not only reducing material waste but also significantly improving production speed and labour efficiency.”

Hyperion must meet all relevant Australian building codes as part of the contract, ensuring safety, durability and compliance while advancing circular economy principles.

It’s those codes, practices and norms Mr Wigley hopes to not only satisfy, but surpass.

“By accelerating build times and freeing up skilled labour to focus on more traditional home builds, the technology offers a pathway to delivering more housing at scale,” he said.

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Little Castles Small Homes director Mark Hughes said he was excited to the involved in the first residential use of Hyperion’s technology.

“We’re not juts building a tiny home differently; we’re shaping how homes should be built into the future,” he said.

“More sustainable, more considered, and making better use of what we already. It’s about creating spaces and proving that smaller homes can still deliver a higher standard of living.”

The contract with Little Castles is the latest in a string of wins for Hyperion and Mr Wigley, who was last year named Young Innovator of the Year at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exhibition’s pitch fest and awards.

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Adding to the $40,000 won from that award, in July, Hyperion was awarded some $385,000 in a matched funding grant through the federal government’s innovation growth program, aimed at helping to commercialise its technology.

Since its 2022 inception, the company has 3D printed Australia’s first boat hull, a 3-metre vessel completed in just 36 hours; built the country’s largest 3D printed structure – a public artwork at Kalgoorlie TAFE; installed a robotic 3D print system for design students at Griffith University; and secured a Henderson warehouse to position itself alongside defence and subsea businesses within the Australian Marine Complex.

The company has already secured backing from Perth businessman David Budge, who co-founded 3D metal printing firm Aurora Labs Ltd, and is now the Hyperion’s chief technology officer.

Seasoned chief executive and entrepreneur Tim Dean, founder of Credi, has taken the role of commercial lead at Hyperion.

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Perhaps one of its biggest wins yet was its technology’s marriage with another WA upshoot, maritime autonomy software and hardware developer Greenroom Robotics.

The pair agreed to collaborate to create and test 3D-printed unmanned surface vehicles for naval use.

The boats would be designed and manfuctured by Hyperion, with Greenroom integrating its GAMA software solution to the final vessel to make it autonomous.

Hyperion is also partnering with the University of Western Australia to focus on transforming decommissioned subsea plastics from oil and gas infrastructure into high-quality pellets for feedstock.

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ATOM bets big on the little things

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ATOM bets big on the little things

A business described as the ‘Bunnings of the mining industry’ is targeting $1 billion in annual revenue.

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