October 29, 2025
- The Federal Reserve delivered a quarter-point interest rate cut today, to a new range of 3.75% and 4%. Perhaps as a result of the expectation, U.S. stocks enjoyed an upward trend in early morning trading (via CNN Business).
- Apple is now worth more than $4 trillion, joining companies such as Nvidia and Microsoft in that exclusive club. The stock price has shown slight growth tis year, perhaps bolstered by strong sales of its latest iPhone model, but have not quite reached the gains exhibited in 2024 (via CNN Business).
- IKEA, Amazon, and Saks Fifth Avenue were the top retailers mentioned by the American Innovation Index’s latest rankings on innovation, based on consumer opinion. Victoria’s Secret, Costco, TJX, and Bath & Body Works followed in the listings (via Chain Store Age).
- The National Retail Federation’s most recent “Impact of Retail Theft & Violence” report suggested that retailers had seen an 18% increase in shoplifting incidents in 2024 versus the year prior. “Retailers are contending with rising levels of theft, fraud and violence, while continuing to refine security measures, utilize technologies and partner with law enforcement in efforts to curtail loss across the retail landscape,” NRF VP for Asset Protection and Retail Operations, David Johnston, said (via NRF).
- Kraft Heinz slashed its annual sales and profit forecasts on Oct. 29, highlighting ongoing pushback from cash-strapped consumers against pricier pantry staples and snacks. As a result, shares fell by a little more than 2% in early morning trading (via Reuters).
- Adidas expects U.S. import tariffs to have a $140 million negative impact on its operating profit this year, with Q4 in particular showing the greatest hit. “The indirect impact of the tariffs, we don’t know. We do not know how the consumer will react in the U.S. when these higher prices come to effect,” CEO Bjorn Gulden said (via Reuters).