I have heard many similar stories. I myself was born blind, and remember very well my first school report, when I was six, which advised my parents to send me to a school for children with learning disabilities.

I grew up speaking both German and Arabic and constantly mixed them up, not understanding that they were separate languages. If my parents had not ignored that first school report, I too might have ended up in a workshop. Instead, today I’m one of only a handful of journalists in Germany with a visible disability.

Hüppe says the workshop system fails in one of its most basic responsibilities – to rehabilitate disabled people in order to prepare them to work in the mainstream economy.

“This responsibility just isn’t taken seriously,” he tells me.

The reason for that is in part the economic incentives that are offered to German companies to support the system. In Germany, any company that employs more than 20 people is legally obliged to employ at least one disabled person.

Larger companies have a minimum quota of 5%. Those who fail to meet this commitment have to pay a sum in compensation into a central fund that supports disabled people in the workplace.

Many companies choose simply to pay this money rather than meet their quota. They are offered a further incentive by the system, in that if they outsource production to a workshop the compensation they have to pay is reduced.

The result is that fewer than 1% of disabled people make a successful transition from workshop to a job with a mainstream company.

Hüppe also says workshops are reluctant to see their best staff move on. “Obviously a workshop is a commercial enterprise that survives on what it produces,” says Hüppe. “And so obviously they want to hold on to their best workers, the ones that would have the best chance of making it out in the mainstream economy.”

He points me to a 2023 report, external by the United Nations Committee on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, which criticised Germany’s record on disability.

Specifically, it noted “the high number of persons with disabilities enrolled in sheltered workshops and the low rate of transition to the open labour market”.

Not everyone, however, is unhappy being employed in a workshop, including Medina Arnaut, 35. She works for one in Paderborn that is operated by a charity called Caritas.

Arnaut is also the chair of the local workshop council, which represents the interests of the workers in a similar way to a trade union.

“We have colleagues here who are so grateful that workshops exist,” she says. “These are colleagues who quite simply need this workshop environment because of their disability.”

Arnaut adds many of her colleagues have worked in the mainstream economy and the pressure there is completely different. “People come to me and say, I’ve experienced life out there in the commercial world and it made me sick.”

NEW YORK — The Nasdaq Composite Index closed lower on Wednesday, finishing at 25,512.67 after shedding 74.37 points, or 0.29 percent, as investors navigated ongoing volatility in technology shares.

The tech-heavy index reflected mixed signals across the market, with some pressure from profit-taking in high-valuation names offsetting broader economic optimism. Trading volumes remained solid as participants assessed corporate earnings and macroeconomic developments.

Major technology and semiconductor companies contributed to the modest decline. While artificial intelligence-related themes continue to drive long-term interest, near-term concerns over valuations and sector rotations weighed on performance.

The S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average showed varied results, highlighting a rotational dynamic where some sectors gained while growth-oriented stocks faced headwinds.

Market Drivers and Sentiment

Analysts pointed to a combination of factors behind the session’s movement. Profit-taking after recent gains, alongside caution ahead of key economic data releases, contributed to the pullback. Geopolitical developments and corporate news also influenced trading flows.

Technology remains a dominant force in the Nasdaq, with heavyweights in software, semiconductors and internet services playing outsized roles. The index has delivered strong returns over multiple years but experiences periodic corrections as investors recalibrate expectations.

Broader market resilience was evident in areas such as financials and industrials, which helped limit downside across major averages. Bond yields and currency movements provided additional context for equity pricing.

Sector Performance and Earnings Influence

Several high-profile companies reported or previewed results, adding layers to daily action. While some firms exceeded expectations, others faced scrutiny over growth outlooks and margin pressures.

The semiconductor space, a Nasdaq bellwether, showed mixed trading amid supply chain considerations and demand forecasts for AI infrastructure. Cloud computing and digital services names also contributed to index dynamics.

Smaller companies listed on the Nasdaq faced their own set of influences, with some benefiting from merger activity and innovation in emerging fields. The index’s composition, heavily tilted toward growth stocks, makes it particularly sensitive to interest rate expectations and risk appetite.

Longer-Term Perspective

Despite the daily dip, the Nasdaq Composite remains well above levels seen at the start of the year. Its performance underscores the market’s focus on technological transformation and productivity enhancements driven by artificial intelligence and related advancements.

Investors continue to monitor Federal Reserve policy signals for clues on borrowing costs and liquidity conditions. Any shifts in rate expectations can quickly ripple through growth-oriented segments.

Corporate earnings seasons often serve as key catalysts. Strong results from leading firms have supported valuations, though elevated multiples leave limited room for disappointment.

Economic Backdrop

U.S. economic indicators have presented a balanced picture, with solid consumer spending alongside manufacturing and inflation considerations. Labor market data and retail sales reports provide ongoing context for equity valuations.

Global factors, including trade dynamics and international growth, also influence multinational companies listed on the Nasdaq. Currency fluctuations affect reported earnings for firms with significant overseas exposure.

Market strategists emphasize diversification and a long-term horizon when navigating technology-driven volatility. While the Nasdaq has historically rewarded growth investors, drawdowns remain a feature of its risk profile.

Investor Considerations

For participants, the current environment calls for careful stock selection within the index. Companies demonstrating durable competitive advantages and clear growth paths tend to fare better during periods of rotation.

Exchange-traded funds tracking the Nasdaq or its sub-sectors offer convenient exposure for both retail and institutional investors. Active management may help in identifying opportunities amid sector shifts.

Risk management remains essential given the index’s historical beta and sensitivity to macroeconomic surprises. Many advisors recommend balanced portfolios that include exposure beyond pure technology.

The Nasdaq’s role as a barometer for innovation and investor sentiment endures. Its movements often foreshadow broader trends in equity markets as technology reshapes industries.

Looking ahead, upcoming corporate reports and policy announcements will likely shape near-term direction. The index’s ability to consolidate gains while attracting fresh capital will be watched closely by market observers.

This article was written by

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BOSTON — Boston Celtics president of basketball operations Brad Stevens addressed ongoing rumors surrounding star forward Jaylen Brown, emphasizing the player’s importance to the franchise while declining to speculate on his long-term future.

The comments came Tuesday night following the Celtics’ selection of Houston center Chris Cenac Jr. with the 27th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NBA Draft. Despite the focus on adding new talent, questions about Brown dominated the post-draft press conference.

Brown was reportedly included in trade discussions as the Celtics pursued Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Those efforts did not materialize, with Antetokounmpo ultimately landing with the Miami Heat.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Celtics have been open to listening to inquiries about Brown from other teams. Stevens acknowledged the difficult nature of such speculation for the player.

“We had a couple of meetings earlier at the end of May, also before he went back overseas a couple of days ago, or 10 days ago or so,” Stevens said. “Spent a lot of time just the two of us sitting down together, and then have been, like every offseason, in regular touch with his agent all the way through the last couple of days. Obviously, with all the rumor mill and all that stuff, and his name being splashed all over the place, that’s not easy – but we certainly wanted to be as proactive and upfront with that as possible, and I thought we had really good, candid conversations.”

Stevens made clear that Brown remains a central piece of the Celtics’ plans. “Jaylen Brown is a big part of us,” he said. “I’m never going to predict the future, but every indication, everything that I think about over the past few years has been building around those guys, right? So obviously, you never know.”

The Celtics have built their recent success around the tandem of Brown and Jayson Tatum. When asked whether the duo remains championship-caliber, Stevens offered a firm affirmation: “yes.”

Brown, a key contributor to Boston’s 2024 NBA championship run, is eligible for a contract extension in July. Stevens declined to discuss contractual matters publicly but highlighted Brown’s character and contributions.

“He’s been amazing. He’s been an amazing teammate, a great person to be around. And whether that run ends 10 years from now when he retires, or before, there’s a lot to celebrate. We have a great relationship, an open relationship where we talk about everything,” Stevens added.

Context of the Rumors

Trade speculation intensified as the Celtics explored ways to bolster their roster after falling short in recent playoff aspirations. The pursuit of Antetokounmpo signaled an aggressive approach to chasing another title, though the deal did not come to fruition.

Brown has been a cornerstone in Boston since being drafted third overall in 2016. His two-way play, leadership and clutch performances have made him a fan favorite and a core member alongside Tatum.

The Celtics enter the offseason with important decisions to make regarding roster construction, financial flexibility and future contention windows. Retaining both Brown and Tatum has been a foundational strategy, but NBA front offices must constantly evaluate opportunities in a league where player movement is common.

Draft Addition and Roster Outlook

The selection of Cenac Jr. adds depth to the frontcourt. The young center brings size, shot-blocking ability and potential as a rim protector, areas where Boston has sought improvement.

Stevens and the coaching staff will look to integrate the rookie while managing expectations. The Celtics’ draft strategy often focuses on high-character players who fit culturally and tactically within their system.

Offseason moves could still include free agency signings or additional trades as teams reshape rosters ahead of the 2026-27 season. Salary cap considerations and luxury tax implications will play significant roles in Boston’s planning.

Brown’s Career with Boston

Since arriving in the league, Brown has evolved into an All-Star caliber wing. His scoring, defense and versatility have been instrumental in the Celtics’ sustained competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.

Partnership with Tatum has produced deep playoff runs and a championship banner. Both players have expressed commitment to the franchise in the past, though the business of basketball often introduces uncertainty.

Stevens’ comments reflect a desire to maintain stability while acknowledging the fluid nature of roster management. Open communication with Brown and his representation aims to navigate the rumor cycle constructively.

Broader NBA Landscape

The league’s superstar movement continues to reshape contenders. High-profile trades and contract extensions define the modern NBA, where windows of contention can shift rapidly.

For the Celtics, preserving a championship core while adding complementary pieces remains the priority. Stevens, a former coach turned executive, brings a measured approach informed by years of experience.

As July approaches and free agency heats up, attention will turn to Brown’s contractual status and any potential roster adjustments. Fans and observers will watch closely for indications of the team’s direction.

The Celtics enter the new season with high expectations once again. Stevens’ emphasis on Brown’s value suggests continuity is the preferred path, barring transformative opportunities that align with long-term goals.

Boeing shares rose 2.23% to $221.55 on Wednesday afternoon, continuing a recovery from recent lows as the aerospace giant’s growing commercial order backlog and progress on a satellite-based quantum networking program offset lingering concerns about regulatory scrutiny and ongoing losses in its defense segment.

A Stock Recovering From Its 52-Week Low

Boeing’s recent trading has reflected a stock working to climb back from a difficult stretch earlier in the year. The stock’s 52-week range extends from a low of $176.77 to a high of $254.35, meaning Wednesday’s price sits roughly midway between those two extremes — well above where the stock bottomed out late last year, but still meaningfully below the high it touched in late January.

A Massive Order Backlog Underpins the Bull Case

Much of the optimism surrounding Boeing’s stock continues to center on the sheer scale of its contracted future business. There is room in the aerospace market for new firms to show up. Aerospace giant Boeing has a massive book of outstanding business, with a backlog of about 6,100 commercial aircraft, giving the company years of contracted production and revenue visibility regardless of near-term market fluctuations.

Recent Commercial Deliveries

Boeing has continued making tangible progress converting that backlog into actual aircraft deliveries to airline customers around the world. AerCap Holdings announced that it has delivered the first new GE-powered Boeing 787-9 aircraft to Thai Airways International, during a special ceremony marking the milestone. Separately, Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air received its first two Boeing 787 Dreamliner jets as the kingdom’s new national carrier prepares to take off, launching five new destinations.

Defense Contracts Continue Rolling In

Beyond its commercial aircraft business, Boeing has continued securing a steady stream of military and defense-related contracts. Boeing has been awarded a maximum $2 billion fixed-price-incentive-firm-target contract for the Mobile User Objective System service life extension Phase II effort. The company was also awarded a $121.2 million cost-plus-fixed-fee order for the procurement of nine retrofit A-kits, and separately received an $880 million firm-fixed-price, cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract that provides for the procurement, modernization, and sustainment of military systems.

A Quantum Computing Push in an Unexpected Industry

Among the more unusual recent developments for the company, Boeing has been advancing a satellite-based quantum networking program that has drawn attention from technology-focused investors. Normally, quantum computing is the dominion of tech stocks. But apparently, aerospace giant Boeing has a hand in this particular cookie jar as well. The biggest investor-facing story is that Boeing moved its Q4S quantum networking satellite program closer to launch after demonstrating high-fidelity results in testing.

A Difficult Recent Earnings Track Record

Despite the positive contract and delivery news, Boeing’s underlying financial results have continued to show significant strain. Boeing’s revenue has declined for the last two quarters, dropping from $23.94 billion to $22.21 billion. The company has also experienced a significant decline in profit over the last two quarters, with net profit dropping from $8.22 billion to just negative $4.0 million.

Earnings for the most recent quarter came in at negative $0.20 per share, though that figure beat analyst estimates of negative $0.68 per share by a wide margin, representing a 70.80% positive surprise relative to expectations. The company’s EBITDA currently stands at negative $3.31 billion, with a current EBITDA margin of negative 3.77%.

Ongoing Regulatory and Legal Challenges

Boeing continues navigating a range of legal and regulatory matters tied to its past safety record. The company also faces environmental liabilities, such as the March 2026 settlement regarding the Lower Duwamish Waterway. Additionally, its defense and space segments struggle with losses on fixed-price contracts due to technical challenges. A court hearing was also expected in June over fraud charges relating to the U.S. government and the 737 MAX crashes.

Trade Tensions Complicating Deliveries to China

Beyond domestic regulatory matters, geopolitical trade tensions have also disrupted parts of Boeing’s commercial delivery pipeline. Trade tensions between the U.S. and China led Chinese airlines to suspend acceptance of Boeing aircraft, forcing the company to redirect deliveries to other markets — a disruption that has added complexity to the company’s broader global delivery schedule even as overall demand for new commercial aircraft remains strong.

Wall Street’s Generally Bullish Outlook

Despite the financial and regulatory headwinds, the majority of Wall Street analysts covering Boeing maintain a positive view of the stock’s longer-term prospects. According to 27 analysts, the average rating for Boeing stock is “Buy.” The 12-month stock price target is $270.00, which is an increase of nearly 24% from recent trading levels. A separate tracking service found that 66.67% of analysts recommend a “Buy” rating, with an average target price of $270, representing an upside of roughly 19% from the stock’s most recent closing levels.

Other analyst breakdowns showed a similarly favorable, if slightly more cautious, distribution. Among one group of 24 analysts, 17 assigned a Buy rating, four recommended Hold, and three recommended Sell, with price targets ranging from a low of $150 to a high of $298.

Boeing’s Three Core Business Segments

The Boeing Company, together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, sells, services, and supports commercial jetliners, military aircraft, satellites, missile defense, human space flight and launch systems, and services worldwide. The company operates through three segments: Commercial Airplanes; Defense, Space and Security; and Global Services. The Defense, Space and Security segment engages in the research, development, production, and modification of manned and unmanned military aircraft and weapons systems, strategic defense and intelligence systems, and satellite systems, including government and commercial satellites and space exploration. The Global Services segment offers supply chain and logistics management, engineering, maintenance and modifications, upgrades and conversions, spare parts, training systems, and data analytics services to commercial and defense customers.

A Large and Stable Workforce

Boeing remains one of the largest industrial employers in the United States despite its recent financial volatility. As of June 24, 2026, the company has 182,000 employees, underscoring the sheer scale of its operations across commercial aviation, defense, and space-related business lines.

A Path Back to Profitability, Some Analysts Argue

Several analysts have framed Boeing’s current trajectory as a genuine recovery story, even with losses persisting in the near term. While Boeing is expected to return to profitability and positive cash flow in 2026, losses and operational challenges persist in the meantime. Investors should take a balanced view when considering Boeing shares, especially following the stock’s substantial rally from its late-2025 lows. The stock may offer medium- to long-term potential tied to the company’s recovery, particularly if free cash flow turns positive as forecast.

With Boeing’s next earnings report scheduled for July 29, investors will be watching closely for updated guidance on the company’s path back to sustained profitability, progress on resolving its outstanding 737 MAX-related legal matters, and any further developments tied to the Chinese delivery suspension. Given the substantial gap between Boeing’s current trading price and the average analyst price target near $270, the stock’s near-term trajectory will likely continue to hinge on whether the company can demonstrate consistent operational improvement across its commercial, defense, and services segments in the quarters ahead.