Trump Store Touts ‘Presidential Gold Note' As Tariffs Rattle Markets And Gold Prices Soar
President Donald Trump delivers remarks during the swearing-in ceremony for Securities and Exchange ... More Commission Chair Paul Atkins at the White House on Tuesday. (Photo by)
The note–which features Trump's portrait and 'approved by President Donald J. Trump' on the front and the White House on the back–appears to have debuted around the time of the inauguration on realtrumpcoins.com, which describes itself as an 'official partner of the Trump Organization.'
But according to archive.org, TrumpStore.com doesn't appear to have carried the note until Tuesday, when it sent out an email blast with the subject, 'Just Arrived | The TRUMP Gold Note.'
The Trump Store's gold push comes as prices for the metal are up more than 20% this year, reaching a record $3,400 per troy ounce, as investors look for a safer bet than stocks or bonds after Trump's tariffs rattled markets.
Trump's presidential gold aurum note sells for $47 and contains 100 mg of .9999 pure gold, worth roughly $11.
According to the Trump Store, the note is made in the United States and 'will only go up in value.'
Spokespeople for the White House and the Trump Organization did not respond to requests for comment.
'President-elect Trump wants there to be no doubt in the minds of the American public that he is completely isolating himself from his business interests,' Trump's attorney Sheri Dillon said at a press conference in January 2017, a week before his first inauguration. 'He instructed us to take all steps realistically possible to make it clear that he is not exploiting the office of the presidency for his personal benefit.'
Trump controls about 77.5% of the online Trump Store through a series of LLCs and a revocable trust, according to public disclosures (family members own the remaining stake). Any earnings from a $47 keepsake may be negligible for someone Forbes estimates is worth $4.9 billion. That said, we're talking about a guy who once cashed a check for 13 cents.
While spokespeople for the White House and Trump Organization did not respond to requests for comment, Trump's attorneys argued in a January 2025 ethics white paper that the Constitution does not prohibit the president from owning or managing a business. Furthermore, the attorneys pointed out that all of Trump's assets are held in a trust.
Danielle Caputo, senior legal counsel for ethics at watchdog Campaign Legal Center, told Forbes there may not be a clear legal violation—since few ethics laws apply to the presidency—but added that profiting off gold price swings 'raises legitimate questions' about whether Trump is acting in the public's interest or his own.
TrumpStore.com dates back to at least 2007, according to the Internet Archive. It became little more than a billboard for the Trump Tower gift shop around 2013 before relaunching in late 2017, less than a year into Trump's presidency. At first, the revamped site mainly offered golf-themed merchandise. But after Trump's 2020 election loss, it leaned more heavily into presidential branding, debuting a T45 collection referencing his status as the 45th president. Today, MAGA and presidential-themed swag dominate the store—like the $50 Gulf of America: Yet Another Trump Development hat ('as seen on President Donald J. Trump').
In 2019, the Trump Store began selling merchandise—including mugs, soap sets and T-shirts—featuring the White House and other government landmarks. The line was pulled after media scrutiny, though some items remained on the site for months.
$2.7 million: The estimated total sales TrumpStore.com generated in 2023.
More presidential-themed merch.
At least five Trump golf courses have used golf markers featuring the presidential seal—a move that may violate federal law banning the seal's use for commercial purposes, according to legal experts.
Forbes estimates Trump's net worth at $4.9 billion.
Trump Breaks Tradition By Redirecting Inaugural Swag Funds To His PAC (Forbes)
Trump's Business Hired More Foreign Workers Than Ever In 2024 (Forbes)
Trump Store Debuts Merchandise Collection Pegged To Election Victory (Forbes)
Trump's Liquor Licenses Under Scrutiny After N.Y. Conviction—But New Jersey Keeps Pushing Back Decision (Forbes)
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
4 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Earnings live: Target stock falls with Walmart earnings on deck
Second quarter earnings season is winding down, and with most of the reports in, the results have been mostly positive. Over 92% of S&P 500 index companies have reported results, and as of Aug. 18, analysts expected S&P 500 companies to report an 11% jump in earnings per share during the second quarter. Companies had lower expectations to clear coming into the quarter — analysts expected S&P 500 earnings to rise 5% in Q2, the slowest pace of earnings growth since Q4 2023 — amid President Trump's tariffs, stocks' lofty valuations, and uncertainty about the health of the US economy. Highly anticipated reports from Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT), Home Depot (HD), and Lowe's (LOW) are being watched for insights into consumer spending. Other major companies reporting this week include BJ's Wholesale (BJ), TJX Companies (TJX), Ross Stores (ROST), Estée Lauder (EL), Intuit (INTU), Zoom Communications (ZM), Workday (WDAY), Xpeng (XPEV), Medtronic (MDT), La-Z-Boy (LZB), Toll Brothers (TOL), Palo Alto Networks (PANW), and Blink Charging (BLNK). Last week, results came in for Applied Materials (AMAT), Circle (CRCL), Lenovo ( AMC (AMC), Cava (CAVA), Cisco (CSCO), CoreWeave (CRWV), Deere (DE), On (ONON), and Oklo (OKLO). Here are the latest updates from corporate America. Target beat low earnings expectations as sales continue to fall Target (TGT) released its second quarter results on Wednesday. The results are not as bad as the first quarter but declining sales has the retail giant in a bit of a bind. Shares in target fell 8% before the bell Yahoo Finance's executive editor Brian Sozzi looks at the latest from Target and whether it will ever find its place in this new economic environment. Read more here. Walmart earnings expected to show US sales growth continued in Q2 as consumers seek value Walmart (WMT) will report quarterly results Thursday morning before the bell, following on the heels of Target (TGT) earnings Wednesday, which sent shares of the retailer 6% lower. But Walmart is expected to highlight another robust quarter, Yahoo Finance's Brooke DiPalma writes, as consumers search for value amid tariff-related uncertainty. Brooke previews what to look for in Walmart's earnings: Read more here. TJX Companies shares rise after earnings beat and raise TJ Maxx parent TJX Companies (TJX) beat sales and profit estimates for the second quarter and raised its annual profit forecast, boosting shares in premarket trading. Reuters reports: Read more here. Lowe's stock rises after same-store sales return to growth Lowe's (LOW) stock popped in premarket trading on Wednesday after the home improvement retailer reported a return to same-store sales growth, earnings beat, and raised its guidance. Yahoo Finance's Brooke DiPalma reports: Read more here. Baidu quarterly revenue falls as weak ads offset cloud growth Reuters reports: Read more here. Estee Lauder forecasts annual profit below estimates as tariffs hit Estee Lauder (EL) stock fell 8% before the bell on Wednesday after the beauty group forecast annual profit below Wall Street estimates, as it grapples with persistent weakness in the US and China markets and tariff uncertainty. Reuters reports: Read more here. Toll Brothers beats on earnings, but new orders decline 4% Toll Brothers (TOL) reported another double beat in its fiscal third quarter, but a slowdown in new orders weighed on the stock, which drifted 1.6% lower after hours. The homebuilder posted diluted earnings per share of $3.73 on home sale revenue of $2.88 billion. Wall Street analysts were expecting earnings per share of $3.64 on revenue of $2.85 billion. After a sluggish spring season in the housing market, there have been signs of a resurgence, with housing starts jumping in July. But mortgage rates that have barely budged, ongoing economic uncertainty, and affordability challenges for buyers continue to weigh on the sector. For the quarter, Toll Brothers noted it had 2,388 units under signed contract, a 4% decline from a year ago. Analysts had expected orders growth. "The average sales price of new contracts was $1.0 million, up 4.5% year-over-year," CEO Douglas Yearley said in the earnings release. "Contract dollars were flat despite a 4% decline in units. While affordability pressures and uncertain economic conditions persist, we are pleased with the resilience of our luxury business and more affluent customer base." La-Z-Boy stock drops on soft earnings and guidance La-Z-Boy stock (LZB) dropped 16% in after-hours trading after the company missed earnings estimates and navigated "soft industry demand." Overall, comparable sales dropped 1% to $492 million from a year ago. Sales in the furniture retailer's wholesale segment increased 1%, and retail sales rose 5%, but they were offset by weakness in the Joybird brand, which saw sales decline 14%. La-Z-Boy reported diluted earnings per share of $0.44, compared to $0.61 per share a year ago. The Street was looking for earnings of $0.52 per share. La-Z-Boy's guidance also came in lighter than expected. It expects sales in the range of $510 million to $530 million in the fiscal second quarter. Wall Street was looking for $532 million, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Medtronic appoints 2 new board members, posts Q1 beat Irish medical device maker Medtronic (MDT) reported better-than-expected earnings for its fiscal first quarter on Monday. But the bigger story was the company's announcement that it would add two new directors to its board after activist investor Elliott Investment Management became one of its largest shareholders. Veteran med-tech executives John Groetelaars and Bill Jellison were appointed, the company said. Medtronic stock dropped over 3% in premarket trading. For the quarter, the company posted adjusted earnings of $1.26 per share, beating analysts' estimates for $1.23, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Revenue came in at $8.6 billion, above Wall Street's forecast of $8.4 billion. Read more here. Home Depot slightly misses Wall Street's mark in Q2 earnings, reiterates guidance Home Depot (HD) released its second-quarter earnings on Tuesday. Yahoo Finance's senior reporter Brooke DiPalma looks at the latest from the retail giant and how the US housing slump has impacted its bottom line. Read more here. China's Xpeng expects quarterly revenue to double on strong demand for its EVs Chinese electric vehicle maker Xpeng (XPEV) on Tuesday forecast third-quarter revenue would double. The company is betting on surging deliveries of its cars despite challenging economic conditions. The group's stock rose 0.6% in premarket trading on Tuesday. Reuters reports: Read more here. Xiaomi's revenue rises 31% after second EV fires up consumers Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. Palo Alto Networks stock pops on healthy earnings growth, guidance Palo Alto Networks (PANW) stock shot up 6% after hours after the company reported solid earnings and margin growth in its fiscal fourth quarter. The cybersecurity firm reported $2.54 billion in revenue in its fiscal fourth quarter (a 16% increase) and earnings per share of $0.95. Wall Street analysts expected revenue of $2.50 billion and earnings of $0.89 per share, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Shares of Palo Alto Networks are off by 10% over the past month due to a drawdown following the company's $25 billion acquisition of identity security solutions provider CyberArk. But guidance for full-year adjusted EPS of $3.75 to $3.85 also came in above expectations amid the deal. "Cybersecurity is a clear 2nd/3rd derivative play on the AI Revolution with PANW in the driver's seat to gain market/mind share in the cybersecurity landscape," Wedbush analyst Dan Ives wrote in a note ahead of earnings. Ives added, "the continued shift to the cloud [is] putting the company in a strong position to accelerate deal flow as more strategic enterprise AI projects take hold over the coming year." Goldman's Kostin says S&P 500 earnings surge past expectations Bloomberg reports: Read more here. Walmart, Target quarterly results on deck next week The focus turns to retailers next week as heavyweights Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT), Lowe's (LOW), and Home Depot (HD) report results. Investors will be listening for changes in consumer behavior as tariffs and inflation remain top concerns for households. Earlier this earnings season, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy noted that the company wasn't seeing diminishing demand or meaningful price increases. Similarly, Mastercard CEO Michael Miebach said consumer spending remains healthy. However, recent data showed retail sales rose by less than expected in July. And some companies, particularly fast-casual restaurants, noted their customers were pulling back. With that mixed picture in the backdrop, the earnings calendar next week should provide additional insights from some of the big brands Americans shop. Here's what's on deck: Monday Palo Alto Networks (PANW), Blink Charging (BLNK) Tuesday Home Depot, Xpeng (XPEV), Medtronic (MDT), La-Z-Boy (LZB), Toll Brothers (TOL) Wednesday Target, Lowe's, Baidu (BIDU), TJX Companies (TJX), Estée Lauder (EL) Thursday Walmart, Intuit (INTU), Zoom Communications (ZM), Workday (WDAY), Ross Stores (ROST) Friday BJ's Wholesale (BJ) With Nvidia's Q2 earnings in sight, Trump deal could boost outlook Nvidia's (NVDA) deal with President Trump to give the US government a 15% cut of H20 chip revenue in China adds an interesting wrinkle to the company's earnings. China has responded by urging companies not to use the chips. Yahoo Finance's Daniel Howley writes that the payment, which could face legal challenges, won't show up in Nvidia's Q2 report but could boost its Q3 outlook if the administration moves quickly. Howley notes: Read more here. McGraw Hill posts profitable quarter in first post-IPO earnings report McGraw Hill (MH) stock gained 2% after reporting its first quarterly results since going public. It traded around $13.61 on Thursday afternoon. In July, shares opened at $17 apiece in the company's IPO. Total revenue increased 2.4% year over year to $535.7 million. The education solutions company also swung to a $0.5 million profit, compared to its $9.4 million loss a year ago. Market share gains, enrollment, and continued demand for digital learning solutions fueled the higher education business, which saw revenue jump 14.1% year over year. Revenue for the K-12 segment, however, declined 1.4%. These two business units make up the bulk of McGraw Hill's business. The smaller international business noted weakness, with an 11.7% decrease in revenue, while sales in the global professional business held steady. For 2026, McGraw Hill sees revenue in a range of $1.98 billion to $2.04 billion. Listen to the earnings call here. Quantum Computing stock slips as losses accelerate Quantum Computing (QUBT) CEO Yuping Huang said that the company continued to make progress in growing commercial traction in the second quarter, but the industry is still focused on reaching technology milestones. Second quarter revenue totaled approximately $61,000, compared to $183,000 in the same period a year ago. The company reported a net loss of $36.5 million, or $0.26 per share. In Q2 2024, Quantum Computing posted a net loss of $5.2 million, or $0.06 per share. Quantum Computing stock fell 2.3% after hours in what's been a whipsaw year for quantum stocks. In June, the stock spiked 25% in one day after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said quantum computing "is reaching an inflection point." But the industry is still in its infancy. The other big quantum player, Rigetti Computing (RGTI), reported a technology breakthrough in its recent results but also big losses. "We are talking of a market that's hundreds of billions of dollars a decade or two from now," Rigetti CEO Subodh Kulkarni told Market Domination Overtime. "But right now, we are clearly in the R&D stage. We clearly need to perfect the technology to get to that big milestone in about four years, which we call quantum advantage." Read more about quantum computing here. Applied Materials stock sinks as policy uncertainty weighs on Q4 guidance Applied Materials (AMAT) recorded an earnings beat for the July quarter but said that the "dynamic" policy environment is creating uncertainty for the business. That led the chip equipment maker to issue a revenue forecast of $6.7 billion for the fourth quarter, below what the Street was expecting. 'We are expecting a decline in revenue in the fourth quarter driven by both digestion of capacity in China and nonlinear demand from leading-edge customers given market concentration and fab timing,' CFO Brice Hill said. 'We are navigating and adapting to the near-term uncertainties by leveraging our robust supply chain, global manufacturing footprint and deep customer relationships.' The company, whose clients include Taiwan Semiconductor and Intel, posted record revenue of $7.30 billion in Q3, up 8% year over year, surpassing estimates for $7.2 billion. Earnings per share of $2.48 also beat estimates by $0.12. Applied Materials stock fell 11% in after-hours trading. Read more here. Earnings and revenue beats lift Dillard's stock Dillard's (DDS) stock rose 7% on Thursday after the department store chain reported revenue and profit beats for the quarter. Net income fell to $72.8 million compared to $74.5 million a year ago, but earnings per share rose $0.07 year over year after the Arkansas-based company bought back stock. Revenue of $1.53 billion beat Wall Street estimates of $1.52 billion, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Earnings per share of $4.66 also topped estimates of $4.00 per share. Total retail sales were flat, with strength in juniors' and children's apparel as well as ladies' accessories and lingerie. The weakest performing category was home and furniture. Other major retailers, including Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT), and Macy's (M), will report second quarter results in the coming weeks, providing a more in-depth look into consumer spending habits. Dillard's stock is up 23% year to date. It has climbed 78% since its April 8 low. Target (TGT) released its second quarter results on Wednesday. The results are not as bad as the first quarter but declining sales has the retail giant in a bit of a bind. Shares in target fell 8% before the bell Yahoo Finance's executive editor Brian Sozzi looks at the latest from Target and whether it will ever find its place in this new economic environment. Read more here. Walmart earnings expected to show US sales growth continued in Q2 as consumers seek value Walmart (WMT) will report quarterly results Thursday morning before the bell, following on the heels of Target (TGT) earnings Wednesday, which sent shares of the retailer 6% lower. But Walmart is expected to highlight another robust quarter, Yahoo Finance's Brooke DiPalma writes, as consumers search for value amid tariff-related uncertainty. Brooke previews what to look for in Walmart's earnings: Read more here. Walmart (WMT) will report quarterly results Thursday morning before the bell, following on the heels of Target (TGT) earnings Wednesday, which sent shares of the retailer 6% lower. But Walmart is expected to highlight another robust quarter, Yahoo Finance's Brooke DiPalma writes, as consumers search for value amid tariff-related uncertainty. Brooke previews what to look for in Walmart's earnings: Read more here. TJX Companies shares rise after earnings beat and raise TJ Maxx parent TJX Companies (TJX) beat sales and profit estimates for the second quarter and raised its annual profit forecast, boosting shares in premarket trading. Reuters reports: Read more here. TJ Maxx parent TJX Companies (TJX) beat sales and profit estimates for the second quarter and raised its annual profit forecast, boosting shares in premarket trading. Reuters reports: Read more here. Lowe's stock rises after same-store sales return to growth Lowe's (LOW) stock popped in premarket trading on Wednesday after the home improvement retailer reported a return to same-store sales growth, earnings beat, and raised its guidance. Yahoo Finance's Brooke DiPalma reports: Read more here. Lowe's (LOW) stock popped in premarket trading on Wednesday after the home improvement retailer reported a return to same-store sales growth, earnings beat, and raised its guidance. Yahoo Finance's Brooke DiPalma reports: Read more here. Baidu quarterly revenue falls as weak ads offset cloud growth Reuters reports: Read more here. Reuters reports: Read more here. Estee Lauder forecasts annual profit below estimates as tariffs hit Estee Lauder (EL) stock fell 8% before the bell on Wednesday after the beauty group forecast annual profit below Wall Street estimates, as it grapples with persistent weakness in the US and China markets and tariff uncertainty. Reuters reports: Read more here. Estee Lauder (EL) stock fell 8% before the bell on Wednesday after the beauty group forecast annual profit below Wall Street estimates, as it grapples with persistent weakness in the US and China markets and tariff uncertainty. Reuters reports: Read more here. Toll Brothers beats on earnings, but new orders decline 4% Toll Brothers (TOL) reported another double beat in its fiscal third quarter, but a slowdown in new orders weighed on the stock, which drifted 1.6% lower after hours. The homebuilder posted diluted earnings per share of $3.73 on home sale revenue of $2.88 billion. Wall Street analysts were expecting earnings per share of $3.64 on revenue of $2.85 billion. After a sluggish spring season in the housing market, there have been signs of a resurgence, with housing starts jumping in July. But mortgage rates that have barely budged, ongoing economic uncertainty, and affordability challenges for buyers continue to weigh on the sector. For the quarter, Toll Brothers noted it had 2,388 units under signed contract, a 4% decline from a year ago. Analysts had expected orders growth. "The average sales price of new contracts was $1.0 million, up 4.5% year-over-year," CEO Douglas Yearley said in the earnings release. "Contract dollars were flat despite a 4% decline in units. While affordability pressures and uncertain economic conditions persist, we are pleased with the resilience of our luxury business and more affluent customer base." Toll Brothers (TOL) reported another double beat in its fiscal third quarter, but a slowdown in new orders weighed on the stock, which drifted 1.6% lower after hours. The homebuilder posted diluted earnings per share of $3.73 on home sale revenue of $2.88 billion. Wall Street analysts were expecting earnings per share of $3.64 on revenue of $2.85 billion. After a sluggish spring season in the housing market, there have been signs of a resurgence, with housing starts jumping in July. But mortgage rates that have barely budged, ongoing economic uncertainty, and affordability challenges for buyers continue to weigh on the sector. For the quarter, Toll Brothers noted it had 2,388 units under signed contract, a 4% decline from a year ago. Analysts had expected orders growth. "The average sales price of new contracts was $1.0 million, up 4.5% year-over-year," CEO Douglas Yearley said in the earnings release. "Contract dollars were flat despite a 4% decline in units. While affordability pressures and uncertain economic conditions persist, we are pleased with the resilience of our luxury business and more affluent customer base." La-Z-Boy stock drops on soft earnings and guidance La-Z-Boy stock (LZB) dropped 16% in after-hours trading after the company missed earnings estimates and navigated "soft industry demand." Overall, comparable sales dropped 1% to $492 million from a year ago. Sales in the furniture retailer's wholesale segment increased 1%, and retail sales rose 5%, but they were offset by weakness in the Joybird brand, which saw sales decline 14%. La-Z-Boy reported diluted earnings per share of $0.44, compared to $0.61 per share a year ago. The Street was looking for earnings of $0.52 per share. La-Z-Boy's guidance also came in lighter than expected. It expects sales in the range of $510 million to $530 million in the fiscal second quarter. Wall Street was looking for $532 million, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. La-Z-Boy stock (LZB) dropped 16% in after-hours trading after the company missed earnings estimates and navigated "soft industry demand." Overall, comparable sales dropped 1% to $492 million from a year ago. Sales in the furniture retailer's wholesale segment increased 1%, and retail sales rose 5%, but they were offset by weakness in the Joybird brand, which saw sales decline 14%. La-Z-Boy reported diluted earnings per share of $0.44, compared to $0.61 per share a year ago. The Street was looking for earnings of $0.52 per share. La-Z-Boy's guidance also came in lighter than expected. It expects sales in the range of $510 million to $530 million in the fiscal second quarter. Wall Street was looking for $532 million, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Medtronic appoints 2 new board members, posts Q1 beat Irish medical device maker Medtronic (MDT) reported better-than-expected earnings for its fiscal first quarter on Monday. But the bigger story was the company's announcement that it would add two new directors to its board after activist investor Elliott Investment Management became one of its largest shareholders. Veteran med-tech executives John Groetelaars and Bill Jellison were appointed, the company said. Medtronic stock dropped over 3% in premarket trading. For the quarter, the company posted adjusted earnings of $1.26 per share, beating analysts' estimates for $1.23, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Revenue came in at $8.6 billion, above Wall Street's forecast of $8.4 billion. Read more here. Irish medical device maker Medtronic (MDT) reported better-than-expected earnings for its fiscal first quarter on Monday. But the bigger story was the company's announcement that it would add two new directors to its board after activist investor Elliott Investment Management became one of its largest shareholders. Veteran med-tech executives John Groetelaars and Bill Jellison were appointed, the company said. Medtronic stock dropped over 3% in premarket trading. For the quarter, the company posted adjusted earnings of $1.26 per share, beating analysts' estimates for $1.23, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Revenue came in at $8.6 billion, above Wall Street's forecast of $8.4 billion. Read more here. Home Depot slightly misses Wall Street's mark in Q2 earnings, reiterates guidance Home Depot (HD) released its second-quarter earnings on Tuesday. Yahoo Finance's senior reporter Brooke DiPalma looks at the latest from the retail giant and how the US housing slump has impacted its bottom line. Read more here. Home Depot (HD) released its second-quarter earnings on Tuesday. Yahoo Finance's senior reporter Brooke DiPalma looks at the latest from the retail giant and how the US housing slump has impacted its bottom line. Read more here. China's Xpeng expects quarterly revenue to double on strong demand for its EVs Chinese electric vehicle maker Xpeng (XPEV) on Tuesday forecast third-quarter revenue would double. The company is betting on surging deliveries of its cars despite challenging economic conditions. The group's stock rose 0.6% in premarket trading on Tuesday. Reuters reports: Read more here. Chinese electric vehicle maker Xpeng (XPEV) on Tuesday forecast third-quarter revenue would double. The company is betting on surging deliveries of its cars despite challenging economic conditions. The group's stock rose 0.6% in premarket trading on Tuesday. Reuters reports: Read more here. Xiaomi's revenue rises 31% after second EV fires up consumers Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. Bloomberg News reports: Read more here. Palo Alto Networks stock pops on healthy earnings growth, guidance Palo Alto Networks (PANW) stock shot up 6% after hours after the company reported solid earnings and margin growth in its fiscal fourth quarter. The cybersecurity firm reported $2.54 billion in revenue in its fiscal fourth quarter (a 16% increase) and earnings per share of $0.95. Wall Street analysts expected revenue of $2.50 billion and earnings of $0.89 per share, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Shares of Palo Alto Networks are off by 10% over the past month due to a drawdown following the company's $25 billion acquisition of identity security solutions provider CyberArk. But guidance for full-year adjusted EPS of $3.75 to $3.85 also came in above expectations amid the deal. "Cybersecurity is a clear 2nd/3rd derivative play on the AI Revolution with PANW in the driver's seat to gain market/mind share in the cybersecurity landscape," Wedbush analyst Dan Ives wrote in a note ahead of earnings. Ives added, "the continued shift to the cloud [is] putting the company in a strong position to accelerate deal flow as more strategic enterprise AI projects take hold over the coming year." Palo Alto Networks (PANW) stock shot up 6% after hours after the company reported solid earnings and margin growth in its fiscal fourth quarter. The cybersecurity firm reported $2.54 billion in revenue in its fiscal fourth quarter (a 16% increase) and earnings per share of $0.95. Wall Street analysts expected revenue of $2.50 billion and earnings of $0.89 per share, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Shares of Palo Alto Networks are off by 10% over the past month due to a drawdown following the company's $25 billion acquisition of identity security solutions provider CyberArk. But guidance for full-year adjusted EPS of $3.75 to $3.85 also came in above expectations amid the deal. "Cybersecurity is a clear 2nd/3rd derivative play on the AI Revolution with PANW in the driver's seat to gain market/mind share in the cybersecurity landscape," Wedbush analyst Dan Ives wrote in a note ahead of earnings. Ives added, "the continued shift to the cloud [is] putting the company in a strong position to accelerate deal flow as more strategic enterprise AI projects take hold over the coming year." Goldman's Kostin says S&P 500 earnings surge past expectations Bloomberg reports: Read more here. Bloomberg reports: Read more here. Walmart, Target quarterly results on deck next week The focus turns to retailers next week as heavyweights Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT), Lowe's (LOW), and Home Depot (HD) report results. Investors will be listening for changes in consumer behavior as tariffs and inflation remain top concerns for households. Earlier this earnings season, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy noted that the company wasn't seeing diminishing demand or meaningful price increases. Similarly, Mastercard CEO Michael Miebach said consumer spending remains healthy. However, recent data showed retail sales rose by less than expected in July. And some companies, particularly fast-casual restaurants, noted their customers were pulling back. With that mixed picture in the backdrop, the earnings calendar next week should provide additional insights from some of the big brands Americans shop. Here's what's on deck: Monday Palo Alto Networks (PANW), Blink Charging (BLNK) Tuesday Home Depot, Xpeng (XPEV), Medtronic (MDT), La-Z-Boy (LZB), Toll Brothers (TOL) Wednesday Target, Lowe's, Baidu (BIDU), TJX Companies (TJX), Estée Lauder (EL) Thursday Walmart, Intuit (INTU), Zoom Communications (ZM), Workday (WDAY), Ross Stores (ROST) Friday BJ's Wholesale (BJ) The focus turns to retailers next week as heavyweights Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT), Lowe's (LOW), and Home Depot (HD) report results. Investors will be listening for changes in consumer behavior as tariffs and inflation remain top concerns for households. Earlier this earnings season, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy noted that the company wasn't seeing diminishing demand or meaningful price increases. Similarly, Mastercard CEO Michael Miebach said consumer spending remains healthy. However, recent data showed retail sales rose by less than expected in July. And some companies, particularly fast-casual restaurants, noted their customers were pulling back. With that mixed picture in the backdrop, the earnings calendar next week should provide additional insights from some of the big brands Americans shop. Here's what's on deck: Monday Palo Alto Networks (PANW), Blink Charging (BLNK) Tuesday Home Depot, Xpeng (XPEV), Medtronic (MDT), La-Z-Boy (LZB), Toll Brothers (TOL) Wednesday Target, Lowe's, Baidu (BIDU), TJX Companies (TJX), Estée Lauder (EL) Thursday Walmart, Intuit (INTU), Zoom Communications (ZM), Workday (WDAY), Ross Stores (ROST) Friday BJ's Wholesale (BJ) With Nvidia's Q2 earnings in sight, Trump deal could boost outlook Nvidia's (NVDA) deal with President Trump to give the US government a 15% cut of H20 chip revenue in China adds an interesting wrinkle to the company's earnings. China has responded by urging companies not to use the chips. Yahoo Finance's Daniel Howley writes that the payment, which could face legal challenges, won't show up in Nvidia's Q2 report but could boost its Q3 outlook if the administration moves quickly. Howley notes: Read more here. Nvidia's (NVDA) deal with President Trump to give the US government a 15% cut of H20 chip revenue in China adds an interesting wrinkle to the company's earnings. China has responded by urging companies not to use the chips. Yahoo Finance's Daniel Howley writes that the payment, which could face legal challenges, won't show up in Nvidia's Q2 report but could boost its Q3 outlook if the administration moves quickly. Howley notes: Read more here. McGraw Hill posts profitable quarter in first post-IPO earnings report McGraw Hill (MH) stock gained 2% after reporting its first quarterly results since going public. It traded around $13.61 on Thursday afternoon. In July, shares opened at $17 apiece in the company's IPO. Total revenue increased 2.4% year over year to $535.7 million. The education solutions company also swung to a $0.5 million profit, compared to its $9.4 million loss a year ago. Market share gains, enrollment, and continued demand for digital learning solutions fueled the higher education business, which saw revenue jump 14.1% year over year. Revenue for the K-12 segment, however, declined 1.4%. These two business units make up the bulk of McGraw Hill's business. The smaller international business noted weakness, with an 11.7% decrease in revenue, while sales in the global professional business held steady. For 2026, McGraw Hill sees revenue in a range of $1.98 billion to $2.04 billion. Listen to the earnings call here. McGraw Hill (MH) stock gained 2% after reporting its first quarterly results since going public. It traded around $13.61 on Thursday afternoon. In July, shares opened at $17 apiece in the company's IPO. Total revenue increased 2.4% year over year to $535.7 million. The education solutions company also swung to a $0.5 million profit, compared to its $9.4 million loss a year ago. Market share gains, enrollment, and continued demand for digital learning solutions fueled the higher education business, which saw revenue jump 14.1% year over year. Revenue for the K-12 segment, however, declined 1.4%. These two business units make up the bulk of McGraw Hill's business. The smaller international business noted weakness, with an 11.7% decrease in revenue, while sales in the global professional business held steady. For 2026, McGraw Hill sees revenue in a range of $1.98 billion to $2.04 billion. Listen to the earnings call here. Quantum Computing stock slips as losses accelerate Quantum Computing (QUBT) CEO Yuping Huang said that the company continued to make progress in growing commercial traction in the second quarter, but the industry is still focused on reaching technology milestones. Second quarter revenue totaled approximately $61,000, compared to $183,000 in the same period a year ago. The company reported a net loss of $36.5 million, or $0.26 per share. In Q2 2024, Quantum Computing posted a net loss of $5.2 million, or $0.06 per share. Quantum Computing stock fell 2.3% after hours in what's been a whipsaw year for quantum stocks. In June, the stock spiked 25% in one day after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said quantum computing "is reaching an inflection point." But the industry is still in its infancy. The other big quantum player, Rigetti Computing (RGTI), reported a technology breakthrough in its recent results but also big losses. "We are talking of a market that's hundreds of billions of dollars a decade or two from now," Rigetti CEO Subodh Kulkarni told Market Domination Overtime. "But right now, we are clearly in the R&D stage. We clearly need to perfect the technology to get to that big milestone in about four years, which we call quantum advantage." Read more about quantum computing here. Quantum Computing (QUBT) CEO Yuping Huang said that the company continued to make progress in growing commercial traction in the second quarter, but the industry is still focused on reaching technology milestones. Second quarter revenue totaled approximately $61,000, compared to $183,000 in the same period a year ago. The company reported a net loss of $36.5 million, or $0.26 per share. In Q2 2024, Quantum Computing posted a net loss of $5.2 million, or $0.06 per share. Quantum Computing stock fell 2.3% after hours in what's been a whipsaw year for quantum stocks. In June, the stock spiked 25% in one day after Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said quantum computing "is reaching an inflection point." But the industry is still in its infancy. The other big quantum player, Rigetti Computing (RGTI), reported a technology breakthrough in its recent results but also big losses. "We are talking of a market that's hundreds of billions of dollars a decade or two from now," Rigetti CEO Subodh Kulkarni told Market Domination Overtime. "But right now, we are clearly in the R&D stage. We clearly need to perfect the technology to get to that big milestone in about four years, which we call quantum advantage." Read more about quantum computing here. Applied Materials stock sinks as policy uncertainty weighs on Q4 guidance Applied Materials (AMAT) recorded an earnings beat for the July quarter but said that the "dynamic" policy environment is creating uncertainty for the business. That led the chip equipment maker to issue a revenue forecast of $6.7 billion for the fourth quarter, below what the Street was expecting. 'We are expecting a decline in revenue in the fourth quarter driven by both digestion of capacity in China and nonlinear demand from leading-edge customers given market concentration and fab timing,' CFO Brice Hill said. 'We are navigating and adapting to the near-term uncertainties by leveraging our robust supply chain, global manufacturing footprint and deep customer relationships.' The company, whose clients include Taiwan Semiconductor and Intel, posted record revenue of $7.30 billion in Q3, up 8% year over year, surpassing estimates for $7.2 billion. Earnings per share of $2.48 also beat estimates by $0.12. Applied Materials stock fell 11% in after-hours trading. Read more here. Applied Materials (AMAT) recorded an earnings beat for the July quarter but said that the "dynamic" policy environment is creating uncertainty for the business. That led the chip equipment maker to issue a revenue forecast of $6.7 billion for the fourth quarter, below what the Street was expecting. 'We are expecting a decline in revenue in the fourth quarter driven by both digestion of capacity in China and nonlinear demand from leading-edge customers given market concentration and fab timing,' CFO Brice Hill said. 'We are navigating and adapting to the near-term uncertainties by leveraging our robust supply chain, global manufacturing footprint and deep customer relationships.' The company, whose clients include Taiwan Semiconductor and Intel, posted record revenue of $7.30 billion in Q3, up 8% year over year, surpassing estimates for $7.2 billion. Earnings per share of $2.48 also beat estimates by $0.12. Applied Materials stock fell 11% in after-hours trading. Read more here. Earnings and revenue beats lift Dillard's stock Dillard's (DDS) stock rose 7% on Thursday after the department store chain reported revenue and profit beats for the quarter. Net income fell to $72.8 million compared to $74.5 million a year ago, but earnings per share rose $0.07 year over year after the Arkansas-based company bought back stock. Revenue of $1.53 billion beat Wall Street estimates of $1.52 billion, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Earnings per share of $4.66 also topped estimates of $4.00 per share. Total retail sales were flat, with strength in juniors' and children's apparel as well as ladies' accessories and lingerie. The weakest performing category was home and furniture. Other major retailers, including Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT), and Macy's (M), will report second quarter results in the coming weeks, providing a more in-depth look into consumer spending habits. Dillard's stock is up 23% year to date. It has climbed 78% since its April 8 low. Dillard's (DDS) stock rose 7% on Thursday after the department store chain reported revenue and profit beats for the quarter. Net income fell to $72.8 million compared to $74.5 million a year ago, but earnings per share rose $0.07 year over year after the Arkansas-based company bought back stock. Revenue of $1.53 billion beat Wall Street estimates of $1.52 billion, according to S&P Global Market Intelligence. Earnings per share of $4.66 also topped estimates of $4.00 per share. Total retail sales were flat, with strength in juniors' and children's apparel as well as ladies' accessories and lingerie. The weakest performing category was home and furniture. Other major retailers, including Walmart (WMT), Target (TGT), and Macy's (M), will report second quarter results in the coming weeks, providing a more in-depth look into consumer spending habits. Dillard's stock is up 23% year to date. It has climbed 78% since its April 8 low.
New York Post
6 minutes ago
- New York Post
Trump's White House merch room thrust into spotlight after Zelensky pictured with ‘4 more years' hat
WASHINGTON — President Trump's photographed offer of a '4 More Years' hat to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky Monday cast a global focus onto one of his lesser-known White House remodels: turning a room off the Oval Office into a free-of-charge gift shop. The merch room was previously a private study — which also saw action as President Bill Clinton's love den with intern Monica Lewinsky. A treasure trove now awaits the president's biggest supporters and visiting heads of state. 'Some people leave with bags of stuff,' a source told The Post. 4 A behind-the-scenes photo of Trump showing Presidents Zelensky and Macron his merch room this week. Margo Martin/X Coveted souvenirs include Trump's golden 'Never Surrender' high-top sneakers, which launched last year for $399, and custom-made ties by Stefano Ricci, whose standard offerings retail starting at $330 at Neiman Marcus, sources said. Trump 'loves being generous' with visitors, said one person who has been to the room. 'Fellas, come on, grab what you want. It's OK,' Trump told aides to Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev following a peace deal signing with Armenia on Aug. 8. The room serves multiple functions, including playing to Trump's strengths as a host and fulfilling the branding and hospitality executive's desire for a lasting positive impression. It also serves as a polite way to end Oval Office encounters, turning potentially curt send-offs into a memorable moment. 4 President Trump shows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to his White House merch room Monday. Daniel Torok/White House/UPI/Shutterstock Although a prior iteration existed during Trump's first presidency, this second-term upgrade features a broad inventory. A recent visitor recalled neat shelves of photobooks, candles, golf balls and tees, travel mugs, cufflinks, enameled boxes, small dishes and hand towels. Another source spotted Bibles autographed by the president. The West Wing room, reputedly used by former President Joe Biden to rest, also has special boxes of M&Ms that the candy maker Mars produces with the signatures of chief executives from both parties. Visitors generally receive a paper bag adorned with the presidential seal to stuff with keepsakes. 4 Trump presented Zelensky and other European leaders with symbolic keys to the White House, shown in wooden boxes on the Resolute Desk, ahead of the gift-room visit. Daniel Torok/White House/UPI/Shutterstock Trump has made substantial changes to the White House grounds since reclaiming power in January, adding dramatic golden refreshes for the Oval Office and Cabinet Room, enormous flagpoles to the lawns, a paved patio for the Rose Garden and fresh marble for the Palm Room linking the West Wing to the main White House. He plans to turn the East Wing into a ballroom. The relatively small gift room's diplomatic utility was on display this month when Aliyev visited — as Trump asserted US leadership in a conflict between two nations historically in Russia's sphere of influence. Trump picked out a scarf for Aliyev's wife, handing it to the strongman, and instructed aides to make sure that a symbolic 'Key to the White House' that he personally designed was put into Aliyev's swag bag, as the guest thanked him for the gifts. Trump showed Aliyev, who does not have free elections, a 'Trump 2028' hat, telling this counterpart, 'You know, you're not allowed to run [for a third term]. I'm 28 points higher than anybody. Everyone wants me to run.' 'Including us!' added Aliyev, who inherited his position from his father. 'This drives them crazy,' Trump said, turning slightly to point out the same hat he showed Zelensky. 'Look, '4 More Years.' They go, '4 More Years!' So it's sorta cool.' 4 Trump previously took Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to the room and picked out a scarf for his wife. Getty Images Stacks of red 'Make America Great Again' hats are also available, as are newer versions that say 'Gulf of America' and 'Trump Was Right About Everything.' French President Emmanuel Macron, who joined Zelensky in the room, clutched his recently received 'Key to the White House,' contained in a wooden display box that had moments earlier been on the Oval Office's Resolute Desk. What, if anything, Zelensky chose to take was unclear to The Post's sources, but he also left the White House with a revived relationship with Trump and pledges for US and European backing for 'security guarantees' against further Russian invasions if peace is achieved.
Chicago Tribune
6 minutes ago
- Chicago Tribune
‘South Park' targets federal takeover of Washington, DC, police in latest episode
NEW YORK — 'South Park' is continuing its cartoon assault on the Trump administration, with an episode on Wednesday that addresses the federal takeover of Washington, D.C.'s police department. A 20-second promo of this week's episode released by Comedy Central depicts the show's recurring character 'Towelie' — an anthropomorphic towel — riding in a bus past the U.S. Supreme Court building and White House, where armed troops are patrolling. A tank rolls by in front of the White House. 'This seems like a perfect place for a towel,' the character says upon disembarking the bus. 'South Park' creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone recently signed a reported $1.5 billion, five-year deal with Paramount for new episodes and streaming rights to their series, which began its 27th season this summer. Their second episode of the season depicted Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem shooting puppies, a reference to a story from the former South Dakota governor's biography where she said she killed the family dog because of its behavioral issues. Noem is also depicted being trailed by a team of beauticians having to reattach her face. 'It's so easy to make fun of women for how they look,' Noem told Glenn Beck in response to the episode. The season premiere mocked President Donald Trump's body in a raunchy manner and depicted him sharing a bed with Satan. The White House has dismissed 'South Park' as a fourth-rate, no-longer-relevant show. But it has been attracting attention; Comedy Central said the Noem episode had the highest audience share in the show's history, a reference to the percentage of people with televisions on watching the cartoon.
