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Breaking News: Investing

Wealthfront IPO Filing: Fintech Stocks on the Rise

by Priya Shah – Business Editor September 29, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Wealthfront Officially Files for ⁣IPO, Following Fintech Trend

Wealthfront, ⁤a pioneer in automated investing, publicly filed for an initial public offering (IPO) with the U.S. Securities ⁢and‌ Exchange ‌Commission on Monday, joining a growing number ‍of financial technology companies too seek ⁢public funding this year. the company confidentially submitted its ⁤draft registration statement in June.

The public filing signals Wealthfront’s intention to begin a roadshow to attract investors, with a listing expected within weeks. As of ‌July 31, Wealthfront reported $88 billion in‌ assets under management and served 1.3 million customers, according to⁢ the filing. CEO David Fortunato leads the company.

“Digital natives typically have large liquid savings with long⁢ time horizons ahead, and they are‍ undeterred by corrections and bear markets,” Wealthfront stated in its filing.

Wealthfront’s move follows recent IPOs‌ from fintech firms like Chime and Klarna. This story is developing ⁣and‌ will⁤ be updated as⁣ more facts becomes ⁣available.

September 29, 2025 0 comments

World

Trump Announces $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee: Tech Industry Reacts

by Priya Shah – Business Editor September 21, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Tech Companies Advise H-1B⁢ Visa Holders to Limit international Travel ⁢Amid New Restrictions

Recent policy⁤ changes by the Trump management have prompted several major technology companies to advise their employees holding H-1B visas ⁣to exercise caution with international travel, adn in some⁢ cases, to remain in the ⁢United States. These advisories follow an proclamation of increased scrutiny and fees associated with H-1B visa ⁤applications, representing the administration’s moast notable effort yet to restrict employment-based ⁤legal immigration.

According ‍to sources, a law firm representing multiple companies sent a memo urging H-1B visa holders to avoid international travel until further guidance is provided. Specifically,Goldman ‌Sachs communicated to employees with H-1B⁣ visas to be cautious when traveling internationally,based on advice from immigration services firm‍ Fragomen. Microsoft has reportedly advised H-1B visa holders‍ to remain⁤ in the U.S.,and those currently abroad to return,warning ‍that international ‍travel could jeopardize their immigration status.

the ⁢new⁣ fee structure represents a significant escalation in the administration’s broader⁤ crackdown on both legal and illegal immigration, initiated‌ since taking ⁢office‌ in January. While previous actions⁣ targeted various aspects of immigration, this announcement focuses specifically ‍on employment visas.

Data indicates that Amazon employed the largest number of H-1B holders, exceeding 14,000 as of the end ‌of June. Other top recipients include Microsoft,⁤ Meta, Apple,‌ and Google, each holding ⁤over 4,000 H-1B visas among the ⁣top 10 recipients ⁤for the fiscal year‌ 2025.

The White House defended the changes, with⁣ spokeswoman Taylor rogers stating the action “puts American workers⁤ frist” by discouraging companies from ⁢exploiting the system ⁤and possibly⁤ suppressing wages. Rogers also asserted the policy provides clarity ⁢for businesses seeking to legitimately bring high-skilled workers⁢ to the U.S.

The announcement has also triggered responses from foreign governments. India’s Ministry of External affairs stated it is assessing‍ the implications of the visa restrictions, emphasizing the shared interest of both Indian and U.S. industries in maintaining innovation competitiveness.‌ The Ministry also expressed concern over the potential‍ disruption to families. ⁤South korea’s foreign ministry similarly announced it is evaluating the impact on Korean firms ⁢and ‍skilled workers.

CNBC has reached out to the public companies listed among the top 10 H-1B recipients for comment, and is awaiting a response from the White House.

September 21, 2025 0 comments

World

The Fed cut its interest rate, but mortgage costs went higher

by Priya Shah – Business Editor September 20, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Mortgage Rates Rise Despite federal Reserve Rate ‌Cut, Sparking Housing market Concerns

WASHINGTON – September 20, 2025 – In a surprising ‌turn, ‌mortgage rates are climbing even after the⁣ Federal ‍Reserve lowered interest rates this week, adding pressure to the ⁢housing market and raising questions about the effectiveness of monetary policy in influencing consumer borrowing costs.The ‍unexpected move highlights the ‍complex interplay‌ of factors driving long-term interest rates, including global economic conditions and investor expectations about future economic growth.

The 10-year Treasury yield, ‍a benchmark for mortgage rates, has remained largely unchanged since the beginning of⁣ 2024,‌ despite multiple rate cuts ⁣by the Fed, according to⁢ market analysis.This suggests that forces beyond the central bank’s⁤ control are at play.

“It’s noteworthy that the 10-year note yield is little changed compared with early ‌2024, despite the Fed ⁤cutting rates multiple times since then,” noted Peter Boockvar, of One Point.

The increase in longer-term yields directly impacts ⁣the cost of⁢ major ⁢purchases financed with loans, including homes and automobiles, as⁢ well as credit card interest rates. Mortgage rates⁤ rose following the Fed’s recent rate cut, ‍reversing a trend that saw them reach a three-year low ahead of⁢ the central bank’s action.

the housing market is already ⁢feeling the strain. Homebuilder ⁤Lennar⁣ (LEN) reported missing wall Street’s revenue expectations for ⁣the third quarter on Thursday and ⁤issued weak guidance ‌for deliveries in the current quarter. Lennar Co-CEO Stuart Miller stated the company faced “continued pressures” and ⁤”elevated” ⁢interest ‌rates throughout much of the third ‌quarter.

Bond market investors ⁢are focused on the “bigger picture,” according to Chris Rupkey, chief economist at FWDBONDS. “It’s not the journey, it’s the destination,” he ⁣said, explaining⁢ that investors are assessing the Fed’s projections for⁤ future rate cuts and the perceived neutral rate on the Fed⁤ funds⁣ rate to ⁣determine the “end game.” “The bond market really will react once it is assured that the ‍central bank⁢ is going to lower the⁣ rates dramatically.”

Boockvar also pointed to the influence of international⁤ yields, which are also trending upward, emphasizing the importance⁤ of monitoring global economic⁣ developments and the actions of foreign central banks.

Though, Rupkey cautioned against celebrating declining yields, as they frequently enough signal an impending recession. He ‍attributed ‍this week’s yield increases, in ⁤part, to falling unemployment ⁤filings,‌ suggesting a reduced risk of an economic downturn.

“Don’t rejoice so much about getting bond yields down, as it may mean that it’s impossible for you to find work,” Rupkey warned. “Unluckily, the bond market ⁤only really embraces⁢ bad news… terrible news.”

September 20, 2025 0 comments

World

Fed Rate Cut: When to Refinance Your Loans for Savings

by Priya Shah – Business Editor September 20, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Fed Rate⁢ Cut: Should You Refinance Your Loans?

Washington D.C. – The Federal Reserve‌ delivered a widely anticipated⁣ rate cut on Wednesday, a move poised ‌to potentially ease financial pressures⁤ on consumers. While the⁢ immediate impact ⁤remains to be seen, the decision opens the door⁢ for lower borrowing costs, particularly for those looking to refinance existing loans.

The rate reduction – the first in a long time – could offer a welcome⁣ respite from the persistent sting of inflation. “While the broader impact of a rate‌ reduction on consumers’ financial health remains to be fully seen,⁤ it could offer some relief from the persistent budgetary pressures driven by inflation,” explains Michele Raneri, vice president and head ⁤of U.S. research and consulting at TransUnion.

Though, experts ⁣caution against⁢ expecting overnight⁤ changes. Historically, borrowing costs react more quickly to increases in the‌ Fed’s benchmark rate then to decreases. Furthermore, mortgage⁣ rates are heavily influenced by long-term U.S. Treasury bond yields, not solely by ⁤the Fed’s actions.

A Gradual Shift: Don’t Expect Immediate Relief

Stephen Kates, a certified financial planner and financial analyst at Bankrate, emphasizes ⁢a measured outlook.”This isn’t going to change anybody’s life overnight,” he says.”For most consumers, [Wednesday’s cut] is a non-event.”

The key takeaway? A series of rate cuts will likely be⁢ needed to significantly lower borrowing costs and make refinancing a worthwhile endeavor.

When Does Refinancing Make‍ Sense?

The decision to refinance hinges on a variety‌ of factors, including the‍ type of loan and your individual financial situation. Here’

September 20, 2025 0 comments

Technology

Wall Street Analyst Ratings: Stocks Upgraded and Downgraded

by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor September 19, 2025

written by Rachel Kim – Technology Editor

Okay, here’s a breakdown of the⁣ analyst ratings changes, categorized for clarity. I’ve included the firm, the stock, the change, and a brief ⁢reason. I’ve also grouped them by “Upgrade/Initiate Buy” and “Downgrade/Hold” for easy⁤ scanning.

Upgrades & New⁣ “Buy” Initiations

* Stellantis⁢ (STLA): Roth⁣ upgraded to Buy – Improving inventory & upcoming product momentum.
* ‍ beauty Health (SKIN): Roth initiated Buy ⁢ – Turnaround story, $3.50 price target.
* ⁢ Tesla (TSLA): Baird upgraded to outperform from Neutral – Anticipates “physical AI ⁣inflection” and shift in investor focus to ⁣future potential.
* CoreWeave (CRWV): Loop⁣ initiated Buy ‍ – Bullish on its position as a leading‌ “Neocloud” provider, favored by Nvidia and major AI labs.
* Lincoln National (LNC): Morgan Stanley ⁣upgraded to Overweight from Equal Weight – Turnaround ⁢on track, shifting to a capital-light business, profitable growth.
* ‌ Klaviyo (KVYO): ‍ Morgan Stanley upgraded to Overweight ⁣ from⁣ Equal Weight – Positioned for⁣ durable 20%+ growth as it expands beyond email marketing.
* Intel (INTC): Benchmark upgraded⁤ to Buy from Hold ⁢- Recommend buying dips following Nvidia deal.
* ⁤ Toast (TOST): Deutsche Bank⁢ reiterates Buy – Sees it as a⁣ long-term “winner” in fintech despite⁣ near-term trading choppiness.
* Bill.com Holdings (BILL): Truist upgraded to⁣ Buy from Hold ‍- expects upside to revenue growth, increased ⁣price⁣ target to $63.
* SiteOne Landscape ⁣supply (SITE): Loop upgraded to Buy from Hold – Turnaround story, positive outlook for FY26‌ after commodity deflation headwinds.
* Kinder Morgan (KMI): BMO initiated Outperform – Positive global ‍power demand tailwinds, $32 price ⁣target.
* Williams Companies (WMB): BMO initiated‍ Outperform – Positive global power ⁣demand tailwinds,$66 price target.
* laureate Education: UBS initiated Buy – Shares have room to run.

Downgrades & Holds

* ⁣ MetLife (MET): Piper ⁢sandler‍ downgraded⁤ to‍ Neutral from Overweight – Valuation⁤ concerns; shares⁤ approaching fair value‌ ($84 price target).
* ⁣ ⁢ Apple (AAPL): JPMorgan reiterates Overweight – Raised price target to $280, positive early demand for iPhone 17. (While a reiteration, the price target increase is a positive signal).

Key Themes & Observations:

* Turnarounds are Popular: Several upgrades (Stellantis, Beauty Health,‍ Lincoln National, ‍SiteOne) are based on the belief that these companies are in the midst of successful turnarounds.
* AI is a Big Driver: Tesla’s upgrade is ⁢heavily tied to AI potential, and CoreWeave’s initiation is based on its role in the AI infrastructure space.
* Growth Potential: Klaviyo and⁣ Bill.com⁣ are highlighted for their strong growth prospects.
* ‍ Valuation Concerns: MetLife’s downgrade is a reminder that valuation matters, even for‍ good companies.
* Positive iPhone 17 Demand: Apple is seeing strong early demand‍ for its new ‌iPhone.

Disclaimer: I am an AI⁣ chatbot and ⁤cannot provide financial advice.⁣ This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes ‌only, and does⁢ not‌ constitute investment advice. You should ⁣consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment ⁢decisions.

September 19, 2025 0 comments

Business

Fed Rate Cut: How It Impacts Credit Cards, Mortgages, and More

by Priya Shah – Business Editor September 17, 2025

written by Priya Shah – Business Editor

Federal reserve Rate Cuts: How They Impact Auto Loans, Student Debt & Savings

Table of Contents

Federal reserve Rate Cuts: How They Impact Auto Loans, Student Debt & Savings

WASHINGTON – Potential Federal Reserve interest rate cuts could offer modest benefits to‌ borrowers while posing challenges for savers, according to financial experts. While many loan rates are fixed, shifts in sentiment and opportunities for refinancing could‍ emerge.

Auto Loans

Though auto loan rates at bc.com⁣ are fixed, edmunds’ head of insights, Jessica ⁤Caldwell, believes ⁤decreasing borrowing costs on new loans could ‌positively influence potential car buyers. The average rate on a five-year new car loan is ⁢currently around 7%, according to Edmunds. Caldwell stated that “a modest⁢ Fed rate cut won’t dramatically slash monthly payments for consumers,” but “it does boost‌ overall buyer sentiment.” She added that these cues, combined with sales events like model-year closeouts, Black Friday deals, and year-end promotions, could spur car buying despite high vehicle prices.

Student Loans

Federal student loan rates are fixed and reset annually on July ‌1,⁤ meaning most borrowers won’t see immediate changes.Though, those with private student loans – particularly those with variable rates ‍tied⁤ to Treasury bills – may experience lower interest‌ rates ⁣as the Fed cuts rates, according to higher education expert Mark Kantrowitz.Borrowers with fixed-rate private student ‍loans⁤ may eventually be able to refinance for lower rates if the trend ‌continues. Kantrowitz cautioned against refinancing federal loans into private loans, citing the loss of benefits like income-driven repayment plans, deferments, forbearances, ⁤loan forgiveness, and discharge options.

Savings Rates

“Rate cuts are good⁤ for borrowers but tough on savers,” said Matt Schulz, LendingTree’s chief credit analyst. While the Federal Reserve doesn’t directly⁤ control deposit rates, yields typically correlate with changes to the federal funds rate. As an ⁢inevitable result, yields on high-interest savings accounts and certificates of deposit (cds) are expected to decline. Currently, top-yielding⁣ online‌ savings accounts and one-year CD rates pay over 4%, according‌ to Bankrate, exceeding the rate of inflation. Schulz advises savers to ‌”act now⁤ by ‍locking in today’s still-high rates before they fall further.”

September 17, 2025 0 comments

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