Textron’s first quarter results were met with a positive market response, led by strong execution across its Bell segment and continued growth in aviation aftermarket services. Management pointed to Bell’s 35% year-over-year revenue increase—split between military and commercial helicopters—as a key factor, driven by both the FLARA defense program and robust demand across product lines. CEO Scott Donnelly also emphasized improved aviation operations following strike recovery, noting, “Textron Aviation’s fleet utilization remained strong in the quarter, leading to aftermarket revenue growth of 6%.” The quarter included the sale of the Arctic Cat powersports business as Textron continued to refine its industrial portfolio.
Strategic Education’s first quarter results reflected the ongoing evolution of its business mix, with management attributing growth to a robust performance in its education technology services and expanding employer partnerships in U.S. higher education. CEO Karl McDonnell pointed to a 7% increase in employer-affiliated enrollment, which offset a decline in unaffiliated student numbers, and highlighted the contribution of new corporate clients and the Sofia Learning platform. McDonnell noted that “our corporate partnerships remain very strong, and we suspect that they’ll continue to be a source of strength for us as we add partnerships and deepen our relationships in Workforce Edge.”
Merck’s first quarter results drew a positive market reaction, reflecting operational resilience despite a 1.6% year-over-year revenue decline. Management identified continued strength in the oncology portfolio, especially KEYTRUDA and Welireg, alongside growth from new product launches like WinRevair and Cafaxib, as pivotal to performance. CEO Rob Davis cited “increasing contributions from our newer commercialized medicines and vaccines and continued advancement of our pipeline.” Merck also managed through significant declines in Gardasil sales in China, emphasizing that underlying global demand outside China remained robust.
Stocks can just pull back right now or they can scream to new highs. They certainly don’t have to follow my scenarios although that would be nice and easier.
FDA launches review of trials that sent American DNA to China without full consent; NIH investigates impact of Biden-era exemption on federally funded research
The case involves two family-owned businesses, Learning Resources Inc. and hand2mind Inc., which sought to invalidate many of President Trump’s taxes on imports.
Markets are mixed this afternoon, as eyes remain on President Trump's stalling of his decision to back Israel in its war with Iran, saying a choice will be made within two weeks.
Circle stock surges as analyst initiates coverage with Buy rating and $235 price target, predicting growth in stablecoin adoption, stablecoin market cap, and Circle's revenue and EPS by 2026.
TikTok has strongly refuted claims that it purchased $300 million worth of Official Trump (CRYPTO: TRUMP), the meme coin, to influence U.S. President Donald Trump.
