The latest earnings season has shown broad-based growth across multiple sectors, although market sentiment remains cautious, particularly in midcap and smallcap stocks. Metals and oil & gas have powered corporate earnings, but fundamentals beyond commodities have also held strong.

Commodity-Led Earnings Boost

Commenting on the theme, Gautam Duggad from Motilal Oswal said, “Metals and oil & gas gave an additional kicker, but even ex-commodities, earnings growth stood at 12%. This is the sixth consecutive quarter of high earnings growth, increasing from 10% to 16% over the period. Out of 27 sectors, 19 delivered double-digit growth, which is encouraging.”

“Strong earnings came from auto, capital goods, NBFCs, and PSU banks. Lending NBFCs grew nearly 30%, non-lending 35%, and PSU banks delivered 18% growth versus an expected 5-6%. Even IT and retail showed healthy growth.”

He also highlighted a smallcap recovery: “Smallcaps posted close to 30% growth after five quarters of zero or negative numbers. Midcaps ex-commodities grew 20%, slowing the pace of earnings cuts significantly.”

Market Sentiment and Valuation Concerns
Duggad noted: “India has underperformed in dollar terms over the last 15-18 months. Largecaps are fairly valued, but midcaps and smallcaps still need selectivity—midcap index trades at 28 times, smallcap at 24 times. Volatility arises from trade deals, IT, and AI disruption, but fiscal and monetary steps by the government and RBI are now reflecting in earnings, particularly in auto and consumer staples.”
IT Disruption and Uncertain Valuations
On IT valuations, Duggad said: “We upgraded IT in November, yet Infosys dropped 15-17% shortly after. It has now retraced to around 1300. Short-term levels remain uncertain.”Narrow Nifty Contributions Mask Broader Strength
Discussing Nifty earnings, he added: “Financials, consumer, and IT account for 60% of Nifty profits. With these sectors growing only 3-10%, headline Nifty growth of 7-8% is concentrated in few stocks. Broader coverage shows 16% growth, highlighting strong opportunities in mid- and smallcaps. This is truly a stock-picker’s market.”

At just 12 years old, North West, the eldest daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, is reportedly stepping into the fashion industry with her own clothing and jewelry brand. According to exclusive reports published by The U.S. Sun and echoed across outlets including Daily Mail, Reality Tea and Yahoo, Kardashian has filed multiple trademark applications for the brand name “NOR11,” signaling the preteen’s entry into entrepreneurship.

The move positions North as the latest family member to pursue a fashion venture, following her mother’s Skims empire and her father’s Yeezy legacy. While no official launch date, collection details or release has been confirmed by the family or representatives, the trademark filings mark a concrete step toward commercialization. Kardashian, often referred to as a “momager” in media coverage, is believed to be overseeing the business aspects.

Trademark Filings and Brand Name Origins The U.S. Sun exclusively revealed that Kim Kardashian submitted three trademark applications for “NOR11” across key categories. These cover clothing and accessories such as dresses, shoes, hats, stockings and outerwear; watches and jewelry including bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings; and bags like handbags, wallets and cosmetic cases.

The name “NOR11” cleverly combines the start of North’s first name with “11,” which sources suggest references her age when the idea began gaining traction in the Kardashian household. North turned 12 in June 2025, making the “11” a nod to her pre-teen brainstorming phase. The filings indicate a full lifestyle label rather than a limited capsule, encompassing apparel, accessories and jewelry.

As of February 16, 2026, the trademarks remain in the application stage with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. No opposition or approval status has been publicly updated, but the filings alone have sparked widespread speculation about an imminent rollout.

North’s Fashion Journey So Far North West has long shown a keen interest in style, often appearing in high-fashion looks alongside her mother. From early runway cameos—like her 2018 L.O.L. Surprise Fashion Show debut at age 5—to more recent bold statements, she has built a reputation as a trendsetter.

In 2023, at age 10, North landed her first solo magazine cover with i-D magazine, where she expressed ambitions to own both Yeezy and Skims one day and become a business owner. In a subsequent Interview magazine feature, she told her mother she planned to start her own clothing line called “North West.” These early comments foreshadowed the current developments.

Her style evolution accelerated in 2025–2026. She debuted electric blue hair in braids, bridge piercings, blackened teeth with diamond grills, and maximalist outfits blending streetwear and luxury. Recent sightings include a Valentine’s Day 2026 shopping spree at Alexander Wang in Manhattan with friends, where designer Alexander Wang gifted her a studded leather bag. North sported colorful wigs and alt-fashion pieces, drawing attention for her fearless aesthetic.

Social media amplified her visibility: North joined Instagram in December 2025 under her own account, posting restrained teasers including images with “NOR11” elements and cryptic captions like “🔜,” hinting at upcoming projects. She also appeared in Skims holiday campaigns in late 2025, modeling festive loungewear with blue braids.

Family Support and Business Backing Kim Kardashian’s involvement underscores the family’s entrepreneurial ethos. Kardashian has built Skims into a billion-dollar brand focused on shapewear and apparel, while navigating trademark disputes and expansions. Her experience likely guides North’s venture, protecting the brand name early and structuring it for growth.

Kanye West’s influence appears in North’s reported style inspirations; she has cited her father as a key fashion muse over her mother in past interviews. The family’s combined legacy—high-fashion red carpets, business acumen and social media savvy—provides a strong foundation.

Critics note the unusual timing for a 12-year-old to launch a commercial brand, raising questions about child labor laws, creative control and long-term impact. However, supporters highlight North’s demonstrated passion and the Kardashian-Jenner history of early career starts (e.g., Kylie Jenner’s cosmetics line).

Potential Collection and Market Impact While specifics remain under wraps, “NOR11” could target tween and young teen demographics with edgy, inclusive apparel and jewelry. Expect influences from streetwear, luxury basics and bold accessories, mirroring North’s personal style—think oversized pieces, custom graphics, piercings-inspired details and sustainable elements to align with modern youth trends.

The brand would enter a competitive tween/young adult market dominated by Shein, Zara Kids and emerging Gen Z labels. North’s built-in audience—millions following her parents’ social channels and her own growing presence—could drive rapid visibility. Collaborations or limited drops might tie into Skims or other family ventures.

As of mid-February 2026, no launch timeline has surfaced beyond the trademark activity. Industry observers speculate a soft rollout later in 2026 or early 2027, possibly with pop-up events, online exclusives or celebrity endorsements.

Broader Implications North West’s reported fashion career launch reflects evolving celebrity offspring dynamics: from passive exposure to active participation in family businesses. It also highlights the Kardashian brand’s intergenerational strategy, positioning the next generation as entrepreneurs.

Whether “NOR11” becomes a full empire or a creative outlet remains to be seen. For now, the trademark filings confirm North is following her parents’ path—blending fashion, fame and business at an extraordinarily young age.

Legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka, the enduring voice behind timeless hits like “My Way” and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” released his 30th studio album, Inspirations of Life and Love, on February 13, 2026, via Green Hill Music/Sun Label Group. The lushly orchestrated collection arrived perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day weekend, blending nine new original songs with two beloved classics to celebrate seven decades of his influential career.

The album, available on streaming platforms, CD, vinyl and in Dolby Atmos, follows Anka’s announcement in October 2025 and lead single “Anytime” drop. As of February 16, 2026, it has garnered early praise for its romantic themes, rich arrangements and Anka’s still-vibrant vocals at age 84.

Announcement and Build-Up Anka first teased the project on his official website and social media in mid-October 2025, describing it as a heartfelt reflection on love and life’s milestones. “It’s been an absolute joy to write and record these songs,” he posted on Facebook and Instagram. The lead track “Anytime” served as an instant grat, with a visualizer emphasizing its classic crooner style.

Pre-save campaigns on Spotify and other platforms built anticipation, with the album listed as arriving February 13. Rock Cellar Magazine previewed it in November 2025 as a celebration of Anka’s longevity, noting the inclusion of fresh material alongside re-recordings.

Album Details and Tracklist Inspirations of Life and Love runs approximately 43 minutes across 11 tracks. The record features Anka’s signature orchestral production, focusing on themes of romance, reflection and enduring emotion—ideal for the holiday release.

Key tracks include:

• “Anytime” (lead single, a new romantic ballad)
• “I Just Can’t Wait”
• “(All Of A Sudden) My Heart Sings”
• “That’s Life” (classic re-recording)
• “I Believe” (another nod to his catalog)
• “The Last Time I Saw You”

The album mixes original compositions with refreshed hits, showcasing Anka’s continued songwriting prowess. Green Hill Music highlighted the “lush orchestration” and “masterful” performances, positioning it as a mature, heartfelt addition to his discography of over 130 albums.

Media Coverage and Promotions The release coincided with high-profile interviews. CBS Sunday Morning aired a segment on February 15, 2026, where correspondent Lee Cowan profiled Anka’s 70-year career. Anka discussed adapting to industry changes, from teen idol days to writing for Frank Sinatra and embracing modern shifts like AI in music. He performed a spontaneous song about the show and emphasized discipline—daily olive oil with lemon, rigorous routine—to maintain his voice.

Deadline published an exclusive Q&A on February 13, where Anka reflected on Sinatra collaborations, Hollywood evolution and advice for creatives amid disruption. He expressed no immediate retirement plans, teasing his A Man and His Music Tour resuming March 4, 2026.

An HBO Max documentary, Paul Anka: His Way, streams alongside the album, chronicling his journey from 1957 teen sensation to enduring icon.

Reception and Cultural Impact Early listener reactions on social media and streaming platforms praise the album’s warmth and timeless appeal. Anka posted on Instagram February 14: “Happy Valentine’s Day, everybody 🌹 Let my new album be your soundtrack today.” Fans echoed sentiments, calling it a “perfect love collection” and lauding his enduring relevance.

Critics note the release reaffirms Anka’s status as one of pop music’s most consistent figures, with a Hot 100 presence across seven decades. The Valentine’s timing enhances its romantic draw, potentially boosting streams and sales in the holiday period.

Tour and Future Plans Anka’s A Man and His Music Tour resumes in March 2026, bringing the new material to live audiences. No retirement hints surfaced in recent interviews; he remains active, writing, recording and performing.

Inspirations of Life and Love arrives as a poignant milestone for Anka, blending nostalgia with fresh creativity. Available now on all platforms, it invites listeners to celebrate love through the lens of a music legend who shows no signs of slowing down.

This article was written by

Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of XP 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.

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