BUSINESS

President Trump invested up to $5 million in Kura Sushi USA, boosting its stock despite his known dislike for sushi. The investment was part of a larger portfolio managed by advisers.

Quantum computing stocks rose after the U.S. announced $2 billion in grants to nine companies, including IBM and GlobalFoundries, as part of a strategy to enhance technological leadership.

Samsung Electronics' largest union postponed a planned strike after reaching a tentative wage deal, allocating 12% of semiconductor profits for bonuses. The union will vote on the agreement soon.

Elevra Lithium Limited's shares rose nearly 9% as the company advances its North American strategy, securing funding and divesting non-core assets to focus on lithium production and expansion.

The S&P/ASX 200 index rose 1.62% as softer employment data eased rate hike fears, with financial and energy stocks leading gains amid positive global cues.

Guardant Health's shares rose over 10% following strong Q1 2026 results and increased revenue guidance, driven by significant growth in oncology and screening revenues.

Meta Platforms Inc. is restructuring its workforce, cutting 8,000 jobs to focus on AI development. The company reported strong financial results and plans to increase capital expenditures for AI infrastructure.

Dorian LPG's shares rose over 12% following a strong Q4 earnings report, driven by elevated freight rates and robust demand for very large gas carriers.

Xanadu Quantum Technologies' stock rose 11.64% amid growing interest in photonic quantum computing, driven by strategic partnerships and technological advancements in the sector.

Astera Labs' shares rose significantly due to strong demand for its AI connectivity solutions, record revenue, and positive market outlook, positioning it as a leader in next-gen AI systems.

Roivant Sciences' shares rose significantly after Immunovant's trial of IMVT-1402 showed promising results in treating difficult rheumatoid arthritis, highlighting the company's strong pipeline and financial position.

Arm Holdings' shares rose significantly due to strong AI and data center growth, with the company unveiling its first in-house AI chip and reporting robust financial results.

T1 Energy's shares rose 25.94% after a hedge fund disclosed a large investment. The company's strong Q1 results and ongoing projects further boosted investor confidence.

Immunovant's shares rose significantly after reporting positive trial data for IMVT-1402 in rheumatoid arthritis, despite a wider net loss. The promising results highlight potential for deeper IgG reduction.

GameStop shares rose amid volatility, driven by CEO Ryan Cohen's strategic initiatives and potential acquisitions. Analysts remain divided on the company's long-term prospects in a shifting gaming market.

Disney confirms Hulu will continue as a standalone service, despite deeper integration with Disney+. Profile syncing and a unified streaming experience are set to enhance user convenience.

Intuit plans to lay off 17% of its workforce, focusing on AI initiatives. The cuts affect roles globally, with severance packages offered. The move aligns with CEO Goodarzi's strategic vision.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed slightly lower on May 20, 2026, as investors assessed corporate earnings, economic data, and geopolitical developments, with mixed performances across sectors.

Tesla owners in Shanghai celebrated a group wedding on May 20, 2026, showcasing the brand's cultural integration and appeal among young, affluent Chinese consumers.

President Trump signed an executive order to scrutinise banking activities involving non-citizens, targeting payroll tax evasion and shell companies, while avoiding mandatory citizenship checks.

Apple plans to launch its first foldable iPhone, possibly named iPhone Ultra, in 2026. The device will feature a book-style design, advanced display technology, and a premium build.

In 2026, several FTSE 100 companies, including AstraZeneca and Rolls-Royce, are leveraging AI for growth, despite the index's limited direct AI representation. These firms illustrate AI's indirect impact on diverse sectors.

Tesla shares fell 1.43% as the company raised Model Y prices amid competitive pressures. Despite challenges, Tesla focuses on AI, robotaxis, and energy storage, with a market cap over $1.2 trillion.

The S&P/ASX 200 index fell 1.26% to a 20-day low, driven by declines in mining and financial sectors amid global and domestic pressures.

Dunkin' Donuts is offering free coffee to the first 1 million customers at participating U.S. locations on May 19, 2026, celebrating customer loyalty and boosting brand engagement.

After 56 years, the Red Lobster in Tallahassee will close on May 24 due to rising costs and changing consumer habits, marking the end of a local dining era.

Sony is set to refresh its Xperia lineup with the Xperia 1 VIII and Xperia 10 VIII in 2026, featuring advanced camera systems, improved displays, and enhanced battery life.

GameStop's $56 billion bid for eBay reflects Ryan Cohen's transformative strategy, sparking market speculation and retail investor enthusiasm despite eBay's rejection and ongoing challenges in the video game sector.

Alphabet Inc. shares fell due to increased AI competition and slowing digital ad growth, highlighting investor concerns over the company's future performance and market position.