BusinessEconomy and Trading

American Express Posts Record Revenue as Younger Affluent Consumers Drive Premium Card Growth

American Express achieved record third-quarter revenue of $18.43 billion as affluent millennials and Gen Z members demonstrated strong spending power. The company’s premium Platinum card refresh generated unprecedented demand, with new account acquisitions doubling compared to pre-launch levels according to company reports.

Record Financial Performance

American Express reportedly posted its strongest third-quarter results in company history, with net income reaching $2.9 billion according to the earnings release. Sources indicate this represents a 16% increase compared to the same period last year, with earnings per share climbing 19% to $4.14, surpassing analyst expectations of $3.99. Total revenue net of interest expense reportedly reached an all-time high of $18.43 billion, marking an 11% year-over-year increase and exceeding the anticipated $18.05 billion. The strong performance prompted a 7% surge in American Express shares following the announcement.

Economy and TradingGovernment

France Faces Credit Downgrade as Political Turmoil Threatens Fiscal Stability

Standard & Poor’s has downgraded France’s credit rating from AA- to A+ with a stable outlook, citing concerns about the country’s growing debt burden and political instability. This marks the third credit agency downgrade for France in approximately one month as the government struggles to implement fiscal reforms.

Credit Rating Adjustment

France’s credit standing has reportedly been downgraded by S&P Global Ratings from AA- to A+ with a stable outlook, according to reports released Friday. Sources indicate this marks the third such downgrade by major rating agencies in approximately one month, creating additional pressure on the French government’s budgetary planning.

BusinessEconomy and Trading

Banking Sector Selloff Sparks Global Market Fears Over Private Credit Contagion

Banking stocks plummeted globally as fears over private credit exposure sparked a market-wide selloff. The VIX fear index surged 32% amid concerns that regional bank troubles could signal broader credit market vulnerabilities affecting equities and the dollar.

Market Turmoil Spreads Across Global Financial Markets

Global financial markets experienced significant turbulence as banking sector concerns triggered a widespread selloff, with analysts reportedly warning of potential “contagion” effects spreading beyond regional banks. According to reports from ING, the market volatility has extended to multiple asset classes, creating one of the most challenging trading environments since earlier this year.