U.S. stocks edged lower as investors navigated a mix of rising oil prices, corporate earnings signals, and shifting expectations around Federal Reserve policy. The Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq all turned down after early gains, reflecting a market grappling with geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns. Indexes Pull Back All three major indexes slipped roughly between 0.3% and 0.6%, giving back some of the previous session’s momentum. The downturn followed renewed volatility in energy markets and cautious sentiment around consumer spending. Oil Prices Add Fresh Pressure Crude prices extended their sharp rally, driven by heightened worries over a potential U.S.–Iran conflict. Brent crude climbed above $71 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate hovered near $66 — its biggest daily jump since October. Rising energy costs revived inflation concerns and weighed on equities. Walmart Earnings in Focus Walmart posted stronger‑than‑expected results, but its cautious pro...
Beauty Giant Braces for Global Trade Turbulence with Sweeping Job Cuts
Estée Lauder is set to slash up to 7,000 jobs worldwide as part of a sweeping restructuring initiative aimed at curbing costs and offsetting the impact of potential global tariff hikes. The American multinational, known for its prestigious brands such as Clinique, MAC, and Bobbi Brown, reported a 6% decline in quarterly sales amid weakening demand—especially in key Asian travel retail markets—and rising economic uncertainties linked to escalating trade tensions .
Under the leadership of its newly appointed CEO, Stéphane de La Faverie, the company is overhauling its operating model to become leaner, faster, and more agile. The restructuring is expected to generate annual savings of up to $1 billion, though it will incur restructuring charges estimated between $1.2 billion and $1.6 billion before taxes . De La Faverie acknowledged that the move is critical not only to reinvigorate sales growth but also to shield the company from external volatility—including the threat of increased tariffs imposed amid an intensifying global trade war .
Analysts note that this aggressive cost-cutting measure reflects broader industry pressures, where legacy beauty giants are increasingly challenged by nimble competitors and shifting consumer preferences. As Estée Lauder braces for further market headwinds, the job cuts are a stark reminder of the sweeping changes impacting even the most storied brands in a turbulent global economy.
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