Walmart reported a 34% profit increase in its latest quarter, reaching $6.1 billion as consumers turned to the retailer for affordability amidst economic challenges. Despite fewer store visits, customers spent more per trip, with higher-income shoppers also flocking to Walmart for savings. The company raised its annual sales forecast, signaling confidence in sustained consumer demand. Analysts note that Walmart’s resilience highlights the ongoing strain on household budgets, particularly among lower-income families. bostonglobe.com

Verizon is cutting 13,000 jobs, representing 20% of its management workforce, as part of a restructuring plan to address rising competition and operational inefficiencies. CEO Dan Schulman emphasized the need to simplify operations and enhance customer experiences. The layoffs occur amid broader industry trends of workforce reductions, attributed to cost pressures and shifting market dynamics. Verizon’s move reflects the challenges of maintaining profitability in a saturated telecommunications market. bostonglobe.com

Gold prices fell in early Asian trading as investors speculated on the Federal Reserve’s next monetary policy moves. Market uncertainty persists over potential shifts in interest rates, with analysts noting that investor sentiment remains cautious. This decline aligns with broader fluctuations in commodities as traders await clearer signals from the central bank. Wall Street Journal (Markets)

The U.S. labor market added 119,000 jobs in September, outpacing expectations, but gains were concentrated in the healthcare and hospitality sectors. Meanwhile, manufacturing, transportation, and government employment declined, reflecting structural weaknesses in goods-related industries. Immigration restrictions and rising layoffs in sectors like retail and logistics further complicate the economic outlook. Analysts warn that uneven job growth may hinder broader recovery efforts. bostonglobe.com

The Singapore dollar consolidated amidst reduced expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts, reflecting broader pressure on Asian currencies. MUFG Bank analysts noted that the resilient U.S. dollar continues to challenge regional economies, highlighting vulnerabilities tied to geopolitical and monetary shifts. Wall Street Journal (Markets)

Nvidia reported a 62% revenue increase year-over-year, driven by robust demand for its AI chips. The company forecast even stronger sales for the upcoming quarter, underscoring growing investments in AI infrastructure. Analysts caution that while current spending is accelerating, concerns remain over the long-term profitability of AI-driven ventures. Some investors worry about overvaluation in the tech sector, though Nvidia’s performance has temporarily eased bubble fears. bostonglobe.com

The U.S. presented a peace proposal to end the war in Ukraine, requiring Kyiv to cede territory and limit military capabilities. Ukrainian officials and European allies criticized the plan, warning it amounts to capitulation to Russian demands. Analysts suggest the proposal may reflect increasing U.S. pressure on Ukraine to pursue a negotiated settlement, though it risks alienating Kyiv’s Western backers. bostonglobe.com bostonglobe.com bostonglobe.com

Japan approved a $135 billion economic stimulus plan aimed at assisting households and boosting the economy. The package focuses on easing financial strain for voters and supporting domestic demand. Analysts view the move as a response to growing economic pressures, though questions remain about its long-term impact on fiscal stability. World Street Journal (International)

Google has enabled file-sharing compatibility between Android’s Quick Share and Apple’s AirDrop, starting with its Pixel 10 devices. The feature aims to improve cross-platform connectivity, although concerns about security vulnerabilities remain. Google emphasized the use of Rust programming language to mitigate memory-safety issues, but broader adoption across devices will depend on user feedback and Apple’s stance. The Register

The U.S. Coast Guard announced updates to its policies on hate symbols, emphasizing the prohibition of divisive imagery like swastikas and nooses. Critics argue that the revised language weakens enforcement against hate incidents, while the Coast Guard maintains that the changes align with broader military directives. The controversy reflects ongoing debates about balancing free expression with organizational discipline. bostonglobe.com