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Lowe’s makes $8.8B push into pro distribution, tops Q2 EPS and lifts sales outlook

Lowe’s will acquire Foundation Building Materials for $8.8B, its largest deal ever, accelerating a strategic pivot toward large professional customers and expanding into categories like drywall and ceilings. The move follows a Q2 EPS beat and a raised full‑year revenue outlook, signaling management’s confidence despite trimming EPS guidance as it absorbs integration and macro costs.

Source: Seeking Alpha


CME Group teams with FanDuel to bring “event contracts” to millions of retail users

CME and FanDuel formed a joint venture to offer simple yes/no contracts tied to market moves, with stakes as low as $1, broadening access to listed derivatives under CME rules. The tie‑up marries Wall Street infrastructure with a mainstream betting audience as U.S. regulators grow more permissive toward event‑based financial products.

Source: Finance Magnates


Meta freezes AI hiring amid broader restructuring

After a months‑long hiring spree, Meta has paused recruitment in its AI division as part of a wider reorganization. The reset underscores tougher capital allocation across Big Tech’s AI race and could signal a focus on profitability and prioritization of core initiatives heading into year‑end.

Source: MarketWatch


China weighs yuan‑backed stablecoins to boost global RMB usage

Beijing is said to be considering allowing yuan‑pegged stablecoins in a bid to expand the currency’s role in cross‑border trade and payments. Any pilot would mark a notable policy shift and could reshape regional liquidity, settlement, and crypto‑linked compliance for firms with China exposure.

Source: Seeking Alpha


TJX hits all‑time high on strong quarter and raised guidance

Off‑price giant TJX delivered a revenue and EPS beat, raised full‑year guidance, and saw shares reach a record as value‑seeking shoppers fueled comps. Management’s outlook implies resilient traffic and margin control even as tariffs and inventory costs remain a watch item.

Source: Seeking Alpha


Microsoft curbs Chinese access to vulnerability data in cybersecurity shift

Microsoft restricted access from China to certain security flaw information, tightening controls that could affect global vulnerability research and patch cycles. The move highlights escalating cyber and national‑security sensitivities that multinational tech and enterprise customers must navigate.

Source: Seeking Alpha


Australia’s ASIC can now take down scam ads on social media

Australia’s markets regulator expanded its takedown powers from fraudulent websites to social media advertisements pushing investment scams. With more than 14,000 scam and phishing sites blocked in two years, the new authority targets the ad funnel itself, aiming to stem losses earlier in the consumer journey.

Source: FinanceFeeds


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Business — August 21, 2025 | Briefing24