Industry Trends

Top hedge funds led by D.E.Shaw, Bridgewater and Balyasny deliver big gains in 2025

Major hedge funds like D.E. Shaw and Bridgewater Associates achieved significant double-digit gains in 2025, fueled by an AI-driven stock market rally and global economic volatility. These top performers navigated a year of record fluctuations, with some funds posting their highest profits ever, attracting substantial investor interest.

Industry Trends

5 world market themes for the week ahead

Markets anticipate a busy start to the year. Key U.S. jobs data is due. OPEC+ meets on oil output. Commodity indexes rebalance. Initial public offerings are expected to increase. Investors remain optimistic despite potential risks from U.S. Supreme Court rulings and a new Federal Reserve chair announcement.

Industry Trends

Berkshire Hathaway enters post-Buffett era as shares drift lower

Berkshire Hathaway's post-Buffett era commenced with a slight dip in shares as Greg Abel assumed the CEO role. The conglomerate, now valued over $1 trillion, faces challenges finding needle-moving acquisitions amidst a record cash pile. Abel inherits a strong financial position, with Buffett remaining as chairman to support the transition.

Industry Trends

Affordability crisis in New York: Zohran Mamdani's focus on rising rents & more — how will the new mayor handle it?

New York City's newly elected Mayor Zohran Mamdani faces immense challenges, including a severe housing affordability crisis and rising living costs. His ambitious plans for rent freezes and affordable housing construction are met with financial hurdles. With a projected budget shortfall and weakening federal support, Mamdani's success hinges on political organizing and navigating a complex economic landscape.

Industry Trends

President Trump orders divestment in $2.9 million chips deal to protect US security interests

President Trump has ordered the unraveling of a $2.9 million deal involving Emcore Corp.'s computer chips, citing national security concerns. The executive order mandates HieFo Corp., reportedly owned by a Chinese citizen, to divest the technology within 180 days. This move scrutinizes a transaction initially announced during the Biden administration.

Industry Trends

Dow closes higher on first day of 2026, still no Santa Claus rally

Major indexes like the Dow and S&P 500 closed higher on Friday, ending a four-day losing streak to begin 2026. Chip makers, industrials, and utilities fueled the gains, while tech giants and consumer discretionary stocks saw declines.

Industry Trends

ITC slides to three-year low as tobacco excise hike prompts brokerage downgrades

ITC shares plummeted to a three-year low following a government excise duty hike on tobacco products. Brokerages downgraded the stock, citing fears of dampened cigarette demand and significant impact on profitability. Investors are advised to wait for clarity on price hikes and volume trends before considering buying.

Industry Trends

Coloured diamonds shine brighter: Ultra rich chase pink, blue stones — what’s driving the demand?

Ultra-wealthy Indians are increasingly investing in rare pink, blue, and yellow diamonds, driving a 20-25% demand surge. These coloured stones, far rarer than white diamonds, are seen as both fashion statements and lucrative long-term assets. Their rising prices are fueled by global trends and increasing scarcity, with significant appreciation over the past two decades.