NEW YORK — Zoom Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: ZM) shares surged 12.86% to $109.20 in morning trading on Friday, May 22, 2026, after the company reported first-quarter fiscal 2027 results that beat expectations and raised its full-year guidance on strong enterprise demand and AI adoption.

Zoom reported revenue of $1.239 billion for the quarter ended April 30, 2026, up 5.5% from the prior year and above analyst estimates of $1.223 billion. Adjusted earnings per share reached $1.55, exceeding forecasts.

Enterprise revenue grew 7.2% to $755.7 million, while online revenue increased 2.8% to $483.3 million. Customers contributing more than $100,000 in trailing 12-month revenue rose 8% year-over-year and now account for 33% of total revenue.

CEO Eric S. Yuan highlighted AI momentum. Paid users of AI Companion features increased 184% year-over-year. The company noted customers are increasingly adopting Zoom as an AI-first platform.

Zoom raised its full-year fiscal 2027 revenue guidance to $5.08 billion to $5.09 billion. It also authorized an additional $1 billion for share repurchases, bringing the total program to $2 billion.

The results marked five straight quarters of accelerating growth. Non-GAAP operating margin reached 41.1%, reflecting improved efficiency. GAAP net income was $425.7 million, or $1.42 per diluted share.

Trading volume was significantly elevated on May 22 as the earnings reaction drew strong investor interest. The stock had been trading in a more moderate range prior to the report.

Analysts responded positively. Jefferies raised its price target, citing AI momentum. Multiple firms maintained buy ratings, highlighting Zoom’s transition toward higher-margin AI and enterprise solutions.

Zoom has focused on AI integration across its platform, including features like Companion for meeting summaries, smart recording and productivity tools. The company continues to expand its enterprise customer base while stabilizing its online business.

The video conferencing leader has evolved since its pandemic-era peak. It now emphasizes hybrid work solutions, AI enhancements and long-term enterprise contracts. Zoom reported strong cash flow and maintains a solid balance sheet.

No new corporate announcements were released on May 22 beyond the earnings momentum. The company’s next update is expected with second-quarter results in late August.

Market capitalization exceeded $30 billion in recent sessions. The stock has shown resilience in 2026 amid broader technology sector movements and growing AI interest.

Zoom serves millions of users worldwide through its core video platform and expanding suite of collaboration tools. The company has invested heavily in security, compliance and AI capabilities to meet enterprise demands.

Investors will monitor execution on the raised guidance and continued AI monetization. Zoom’s performance reflects broader market enthusiasm for technology companies demonstrating consistent growth and innovation.

The earnings beat and guidance increase contributed to the strong market reaction. Shares had faced pressure in prior periods amid concerns about post-pandemic demand normalization.

Zoom continues to face competition in the collaboration space but has differentiated through AI features and enterprise focus. The company reported positive trends in customer retention and expansion.

No specific second-quarter guidance details were provided beyond the full-year outlook. Management expressed confidence in sustained momentum across segments.

The stock’s movement on May 22 underscores investor confidence in Zoom’s strategic shift toward AI and higher-value enterprise revenue. Market participants will watch for further progress in coming quarters.

Yoshinari Endo
Managing Executive Officer

Good evening, and good afternoon to everyone. My name is Endo. Thank you very much for taking the time to join us today despite your busy schedule. As of this April, I took over the CFO role from my predecessor, Mr. Okada. As the new CFO, I intend to continue contributing to the enhancement of corporate value while placing great importance on dialogue with capital market participants. So I look forward to our continued relationship.

I would like to get right into the details, but before that, I will briefly explain how we are disclosing the financial results for this period.

As explained at the IFRS briefing held last September, Tokio Marine Holdings have transitioned its accounting standards to IFRS at the end of fiscal year ’25, and we have revised the definitions of KPIs such as adjusted net income accordingly. Since this financial reporting timing is a transitional period, we will explain results for fiscal ’25 using JGAAP-based accounting and figures according to old definitions to announce the fiscal ’26 forecast, we will be using IFRS-based accounting and newly defined figures.

Additionally, we have revised our presentation material format. We have referenced materials from European peers who have already adopted IFRS, materials, which I believe you are all familiar with, with the aim of presenting our performance in a more simple and easy-to-understand manner. Detailed data is available in the Group Supplemental Data in Excel format available on our website, and we hope that you will find it useful.

Apologies for the lengthy introduction. Please turn to Page 1 of the material. Here, we are presenting our core KPIs, EPS and ROE. To allow you

CUPERTINO, Calif. — Apple is preparing the iPhone 18 Pro and iPhone 18 Pro Max for a September 2026 launch alongside its first foldable iPhone, according to multiple supply chain and analyst reports. The flagship Pro Max model is expected to feature incremental design refinements, a more advanced camera system and improved performance while retaining the core 6.9-inch display size from its predecessor.

The devices will mark Apple’s continued focus on premium hardware amid a shifting release schedule. Bloomberg has reported that the Pro models and foldable will arrive in fall 2026, with standard iPhone 18 variants potentially delayed to spring 2027.

Design rumors indicate the iPhone 18 Pro Max will closely resemble the iPhone 17 Pro Max, with a triple-lens rear camera system on a raised plateau. Dummy units leaked in April 2026 showed a slightly thicker camera bump to accommodate potential new components, with the overall device expected to be marginally thicker and heavier than the current Pro Max to support a larger battery.

The front display is rumored to feature a reduced Dynamic Island cutout. Reports suggest the notch housing Face ID sensors and the front camera could shrink by around 25%, measuring approximately 14.98 mm wide compared to previous generations. Some early speculation about fully under-display Face ID has been tempered by later reports indicating the feature may be delayed.

Color options are a point of interest. Sources point to a new “Dark Cherry” finish as the signature hue for the Pro lineup, described as a deep wine-like red. Other expected colors include Light Blue, Dark Gray and Silver. Apple is reportedly forgoing a black option for a second consecutive year. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman has reported testing of a deep red variant.

Camera Upgrades Center on Variable Aperture

The most significant camera rumor involves a variable aperture mechanism for the main 48-megapixel Fusion lens on at least one Pro model, likely the Pro Max. This feature, similar to DSLR lenses, would allow dynamic adjustment of light intake and depth of field. Korea’s ETNews reported in April 2026 that supply chain production for the variable aperture system had begun. Analyst Ming-Chi Kuo previously indicated the upgrade would arrive on iPhone 18 Pro models.

The rear camera system is expected to maintain 48-megapixel resolution across main, ultrawide and telephoto lenses, with the periscope telephoto offering around 4x optical zoom. The thicker camera array in dummy units, with lenses protruding further and increasing in diameter, supports the variable aperture implementation.

Additional camera enhancements under consideration include improved telephoto performance, though specifics remain limited in current reporting.

Performance: A20 Pro Chip and Efficiency Gains

Powering the iPhone 18 Pro Max will be Apple’s A20 Pro chip, manufactured on a 2-nanometer process node by TSMC. This represents an advancement over the A19 Pro in the current generation, promising better speed, efficiency and AI capabilities. Reports suggest all iPhone 18 models, including Pro variants, could feature 12GB of RAM.

Apple is also expected to introduce its in-house C2 modem, succeeding previous iterations and potentially improving connectivity, including satellite features, while helping control costs.

Display technology may see refinements with LTPO+ panels for enhanced power efficiency and battery life. The 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display on the Pro Max is expected to retain 120Hz ProMotion refresh rates.

Battery Life Improvements Anticipated

One of the more concrete upgrades involves battery capacity. The iPhone 18 Pro Max is rumored to pack a cell in the 5,100-5,200 mAh range, up from approximately 5,088 mAh in the iPhone 17 Pro Max. Leaker Digital Chat Station and other sources have pointed to the increase, tied to the slightly thicker chassis. This would support longer usage times despite more demanding processing and camera features.

The added thickness and weight — potentially approaching 243 grams — represent a trade-off for capacity, according to reports analyzing dummy units.

Pricing Strategy Expected to Hold Steady

Analysts Jeff Pu of GF Securities and Ming-Chi Kuo have indicated Apple plans an “aggressive pricing strategy,” likely holding starting prices at $1,099 for the iPhone 18 Pro and $1,199 for the Pro Max with 256GB storage. This approach would absorb costs associated with higher RAM and new components to maintain competitiveness.

Storage tiers are expected to mirror current models, ranging from 256GB to 1TB or higher options.

Context Within Apple’s 2026 Lineup

The iPhone 18 Pro Max arrives as part of a broader strategy that includes Apple’s first foldable iPhone, often referred to as iPhone Ultra or iPhone Fold. This device is expected to feature a clamshell design with a roughly 5.5-inch outer display and 7.8-inch inner panel, targeting a premium price above $2,000. Production challenges with the hinge have been noted, but reports suggest a September announcement remains on track, with possible shipping delays into late 2026.

The split launch schedule reflects Apple’s efforts to manage supply chains and differentiate product tiers.

Current rumors are based on supply chain leaks, dummy unit photos, analyst notes and media reports as of May 2026. Apple has not commented on unreleased products, and final specifications could change before the official unveiling, typically held in early to mid-September.

Industry observers anticipate the Pro models will emphasize camera flexibility, processing power and battery endurance as key differentiators in a mature smartphone market. The variable aperture system, if implemented, would represent a notable first for iPhone photography, offering users more creative control akin to dedicated cameras.

As development continues, further details on software integration with iOS 27, Apple Intelligence enhancements and exact material finishes are expected to emerge in the coming months. Supply chain activity is already ramping up, signaling Apple’s commitment to these features for the 2026 flagship.

NEW YORK — Rigetti Computing Inc. shares jumped more than 30% on May 21, 2026, following the announcement of a letter of intent with the U.S. Department of Commerce for up to $100 million in funding to advance superconducting quantum computing research.

The Berkeley, California-based company, listed on Nasdaq under the ticker RGTI, develops full-stack hybrid quantum-classical computing systems. As of mid-morning trading on May 22, 2026, shares traded around $22, within a 52-week range of approximately $10.30 to $58.15.

Rigetti signed the letter of intent with the Department of Commerce under the CHIPS Act for funding over three years. The agreement includes the department receiving an equity stake in Rigetti matching the funding amount. The funds target research and development projects addressing scaling and technical challenges in superconducting quantum computers.

“We are honored that the U.S. government is seeking to partner with Rigetti to accelerate the pace of quantum computing commercialization and to bolster U.S. leadership in this revolutionary field,” Rigetti CEO Subodh Kulkarni said in the May 21 announcement. “This investment will allow us to tackle key scaling bottlenecks more rapidly and get us closer to utility-scale quantum computing.”

Q1 2026 Financial Results

Rigetti reported first-quarter 2026 revenue of $4.4 million, compared to $1.5 million in the first quarter of 2025, representing a 193% year-over-year increase. The revenue beat analyst expectations around $4.1 million and was driven primarily by on-premises Novera quantum processing unit deliveries and government and research contracts.

Gross margin for the quarter stood at 31%, compared to approximately 30% in the prior-year period. Operating loss totaled $26.0 million, versus $21.6 million in Q1 2025. Operating expenses rose to $27.3 million from $22.1 million, reflecting continued investment in research and development, engineering, fabrication and system integration.

On a GAAP basis, the company recorded net income of $33.1 million, or a diluted loss per share of $0.06, primarily due to a $53.7 million non-cash gain from the fair value adjustment of derivative warrant liabilities. On a non-GAAP basis, excluding stock-based compensation and fair value adjustments, Rigetti reported a net loss of $14.7 million, or $0.04 per diluted share.

The company ended the quarter with a strong cash position supporting its roadmap. Rigetti has highlighted progress on its 108-qubit system, with general availability noted in recent updates.

Analyst Outlook and Valuation

As of May 2026, analysts maintain a Moderate Buy consensus rating on RGTI. The average 12-month price target stands around $29 to $31, with individual targets ranging from a low of $15 to a high of $40.

For full-year 2026, analysts estimate revenue of approximately $21.3 million to $23.6 million, representing a significant increase from 2025 levels. Revenue estimates for 2027 reach around $44 million.

Technology Roadmap and Milestones

Rigetti has outlined a roadmap targeting quantum advantage in the coming years. The company achieved record quarterly revenue in Q1 2026 tied to system deliveries, including Novera QPUs. It continues development of higher-qubit systems, with plans for scalable superconducting architectures.

In January 2026, Rigetti secured an $8.4 million order from India’s Centre for Development of Advanced Computing for a 108-qubit quantum system. Earlier, in September 2025, the company announced purchase orders totaling about $5.7 million for two Novera systems, with deliveries expected in the first half of 2026.

Rigetti has pursued international expansion, including plans to invest up to $100 million in the United Kingdom for a UK-based quantum system with over 1,000 qubits in the next three to four years.

Partnerships and Industry Context

The company maintains collaborations with ecosystem partners, including work on error mitigation and correction. Strategic agreements, such as the one with Quanta Computer announced in early 2025, involve mutual investments exceeding $100 million each over five years to accelerate development and commercialization.

Rigetti operates in a competitive quantum computing sector alongside companies like IonQ and D-Wave. Broader government interest in quantum technologies, including reports of a $2 billion initiative involving equity stakes, has driven recent sector-wide stock movements.

Stock Performance

RGTI shares have shown significant volatility. The stock posted strong year-to-date and one-year gains through May 2026, though it has traded well below its 52-week high. Market reactions to quarterly results have varied, with shares declining after the Q1 2026 report before rebounding on the government funding news.

Rigetti’s business remains in a growth phase with ongoing net losses on an operating basis. Revenue has been described as lumpy due to the timing of system deliveries and contracts. The company continues to invest heavily in research and development to advance its hardware and error-correction capabilities.

Risks and Forward Outlook

Company filings and reports note execution risks related to technical challenges in scaling quantum systems, competition, and dependency on government and research contracts for near-term revenue. Profitability on a non-GAAP basis remains a focus as operations scale.

Rigetti is scheduled to participate in industry events, including a fireside chat at the Canaccord Genuity Virtual Quantum Symposium in May 2026. Further details on its three-year roadmap and system deployments are expected in upcoming updates.

As of May 2026, Rigetti’s market capitalization stood around $5 billion following recent trading activity. The company has emphasized its position in hybrid quantum-classical computing as demand for advanced computing capabilities grows across research, government and potential commercial applications.

This report is based on company announcements, financial filings and analyst data available through May 22, 2026. Quantum computing remains an emerging field with long development timelines, and actual results may differ from projections.

LONDON — The FTSE 100 rose 0.16% to 10,460.46 on May 22, 2026, extending gains amid strength in energy stocks as the blue-chip index moved to end a four-week losing streak.

The benchmark closed the previous session at 10,443.47. It traded in a range between 10,435.53 and 10,497.22 during the session, according to data from the London Stock Exchange. Trading volume and broader market activity reflected ongoing investor focus on commodity prices and central bank expectations.

The index has shown resilience in 2026 after posting strong performance in 2025, when it gained nearly 22%, its best annual return since 2009. The FTSE 100 crossed the 10,000-point mark for the first time in January 2026 and reached an all-time high closing level of 10,910.55 on Feb. 27, 2026.

Sector and Stock Movements

Energy stocks led gains on May 22 amid higher oil prices linked to geopolitical developments in the Middle East. BP rose 2.92%, Shell increased 2.32% and Centrica gained 2.53%. Other risers included Tesco and British American Tobacco.

Miners and industrial names showed mixed performance. Antofagasta fell 4.94% and Persimmon dropped 3.66%. Housebuilders faced pressure amid broader market dynamics.

Financial stocks provided support, with several banking and insurance names contributing to the positive close. The FTSE 250, which includes more domestically focused companies, rose 0.57% on the day.

Economic and Geopolitical Context

Data released earlier in the week eased expectations for an imminent Bank of England rate hike, providing relief to investors. UK retail sales and borrowing figures remained in focus as the central bank monitored inflation pressures.

Geopolitical developments involving the U.S. and Iran influenced commodity markets, with higher oil prices supporting energy producers while raising inflation concerns. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz has been cited in reports as a factor driving energy costs.

The FTSE 100’s composition, with significant exposure to international revenue streams from mining, energy and financial sectors, has helped it outperform some global peers in recent periods. The index derives a substantial portion of earnings from outside the UK.

Year-to-Date and Historical Performance

Through mid-May 2026, the FTSE 100 has recorded gains of around 3% to 5% year-to-date, building on its 2025 performance. This contrasts with periods of underperformance in prior years relative to U.S. indices.

The index remains below its February 2026 peak but has recovered from recent monthly lows. Over the past 12 months, it has posted gains exceeding 19% according to some tracking data.

Analyst and Market Commentary

Reports indicated the FTSE 100 was positioned to snap a four-week losing streak as rate hike fears moderated. Pre-open trading on May 22 showed positive sentiment amid U.S.-Iran peace hopes.

Sector rotation has favored financials, miners and energy names in 2026. These areas benefited from rising metals prices, expectations of stronger global growth and anticipated interest rate adjustments.

Broader Market Environment

European equities traded mixed on the day, with the STOXX 600 showing limited movement. The German DAX declined 0.5%. U.S. markets were monitored for signals on Federal Reserve policy and corporate earnings.

UK gilt yields and currency movements influenced trading. The pound’s level affected multinational earnings translation for FTSE 100 companies.

Constituent Highlights

Among notable movers, Croda International and Games Workshop featured in daily risers on specific corporate developments. BT Group showed gains in some sessions amid sector activity.

On the downside, companies such as Convatec Group and Auto Trader reported pressure following business updates and results that missed expectations in prior sessions.

The FTSE 100 includes 100 of the largest companies by market capitalization on the London Stock Exchange. Its constituents are reviewed quarterly, with adjustments impacting index weighting.

Outlook Factors

Market participants continue to watch oil prices, Middle East diplomacy and UK economic indicators. The Bank of England’s next policy decision remains a key event. Corporate earnings from major FTSE 100 firms will provide further direction in coming weeks.

The index’s long-term trajectory reflects its heavy weighting toward cyclical and commodity-linked sectors. Historical data shows the FTSE 100 began in 1984 at a base level of 1,000.

As of May 22, 2026, the FTSE 100’s market capitalization for constituents stood at approximately £2.48 trillion. The index serves as a primary gauge of UK large-cap equity performance.

This report compiles market data, index movements and corporate announcements available through May 22, 2026. All figures are subject to final closing values and revisions by data providers.