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Wall Street Futures Rise as Inflation Cools, Boosting Rate-Cut Hopes

US stock futures climbed Friday morning after the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report showed inflation rising at a slightly slower pace than expected. The data offered investors reassurance that price pressures are easing, strengthening expectations for a Federal Reserve rate cut next week. Dow Jones Industrial Average futures gained about 0.5% S&P 500 futures rose 0.7% Nasdaq 100 futures jumped 1% The September CPI report revealed annual inflation at 3% , just below forecasts of 3.1%. On a monthly basis, prices increased 0.3% , a modest slowdown from August. This cooler-than-expected reading comes after a delay caused by the government shutdown, making it the first major economic release in weeks. With nearly all market bets pointing to a Fed rate cut, investors are increasingly optimistic about a softer monetary policy path ahead.

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Starbucks Announces Layoffs Amid Operational Streamlining

 

Starbucks has announced plans to lay off 1,100 corporate employees globally as part of a broader effort to streamline operations under the leadership of new Chairman and CEO Brian Niccol. In a letter to employees released on Monday, Niccol outlined the company's intent to operate more efficiently, increase accountability, reduce complexity, and drive better integration.

The layoffs will affect corporate support employees, but baristas and other store-level staff will not be impacted. Additionally, several hundred open and unfilled positions will be eliminated. Niccol emphasized the need for all work to be overseen by decision-makers to reduce the complexity of Starbucks' structure and eliminate silos that hinder communication.

Niccol, who was hired last fall to address sluggish sales, has also implemented changes to improve service times, particularly during the morning rush, and re-establish Starbucks locations as community gathering places. The company is also cutting items from its menu and experimenting with ordering algorithms to better manage its mix of mobile, drive-thru, and in-store orders.

Despite a 2% decline in global same-store sales during its 2024 fiscal year, Starbucks has seen positive results from recent changes, including the decision to stop charging extra for non-dairy milk and streamlining the menu. These efforts have boosted store traffic and improved service, leading to a modest increase in Starbucks' shares.



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