TLDR
- Meta is reportedly planning to launch a dedicated AI cloud infrastructure business to compete with major cloud providers
- Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh said inflation risks are declining while keeping the 2% target in focus
- The S&P 500 and Dow Jones posted gains to start the second half of 2026
- Nike shares fell despite beating earnings estimates after management cited ongoing sales challenges in China
- Oil prices fell as diplomatic talks between the United States and Iran reduced fears of supply disruptions
Meta eyes cloud AI market as Wall Street opens the second half of 2026 strong
dead It was one of the best performers today after reports suggested the company is planning to launch a dedicated AI cloud infrastructure business.
The move will take Meta beyond its core advertising model and put it in direct competition with established cloud providers serving enterprise AI clients.
Investors have shown strong interest in companies building AI infrastructure this year. Meta’s experience running large-scale AI systems for its own platforms is seen as a potential advantage in this market.
Federal Reserve Chairman Warsh: Inflation risks are heading towards moderation
Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh He told markets that inflation risks have eased, while reaffirming the Fed’s commitment to its 2% inflation target.
The comments came ahead of Thursday’s June jobs report, which markets are closely watching for clues about the timing of future interest rate decisions.
For technology stocks and growth stocks, weaker inflation expectations can be a positive sign. Low interest rates tend to enhance the value of future earnings, which benefits companies in high-growth sectors.
The stock market extends the recovery to the second half of 2026
US stocks Building on recent momentum, with both the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average posting gains on the first trading day of July.
The gains follow one of the strongest quarters for stocks since 2020. Investors continued to show confidence in long-term earnings growth despite ongoing uncertainty about interest rates and the economy.
Semiconductor stocks faced some pressure during the session, but strength in the industrial, healthcare and consumer sectors helped keep the broader market in positive territory.
Nike declines after China warning overshadows earnings gains
Nike It reported quarterly earnings that came in above Wall Street estimates, but shares fell after management cited continued sales difficulties in China.
Investors focused on the company’s future directions rather than the headlines. Management has indicated that the turnaround may take longer than the market expected.
Nike’s results are closely watched as a signal of global consumer spending. The reaction to its report reflects a broader trend this earnings season — guidance is more important than previous results.
Oil prices fall as talks with Iran ease supply concerns
Raw Oil prices Oil prices fell after diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran helped ease concerns about possible supply disruptions.
Lower oil prices reduce inflationary pressures and lower costs for industries including airlines, retailers and manufacturers.
Although inflation remains a major concern for investors, oil market developments will remain in focus alongside upcoming economic data releases.
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