Daily Business Intelligence - February 2, 2026

Executive Summary

On February 2, 2026, U.S. markets showed optimistic trends with the S&P 500 gaining ground, driven primarily by strong performances from semiconductor manufacturers and small-cap stocks, as investors prepare for upcoming corporate earnings reports. In technology, Microsoft has been highlighted as the least expensive stock among the 'Magnificent 7' tech giants following a rating upgrade, which may attract value-focused investors. Additionally, banks are bracing for a surge in loan demand in 2026, as indicated by a Federal Reserve survey, hinting at a robust economic outlook despite global uncertainties such as Iran’s nuclear stockpiling intentions. Conversely, the electric vehicle sector in China faced significant challenges as stocks of Chinese EV manufacturers plummeted due to a decline in sales after the expiration of government incentives, reflecting the volatility in the market and potential saturation issues in the EV space. This downturn underscores the fragility of consumer demand in critical growth industries.

Markets — 10 articles

U.S. markets are experiencing a positive momentum with a notable increase in the S&P 500, attributed to optimism surrounding the earnings reports and strong sectors like semiconductors.

• L’Iran n’a pas l’intention d’expédier des stocks nucléaires vers des pays tiers – conseiller de l’ayatollah — Tass (RU)
• Les banques américaines s'attendent à une demande de prêts plus forte en 2026, selon une enquête de la Fed — Business Times (SG)
• Microsoft : il devient le stock le moins cher du Magnificent 7 (amélioration de la note) — Seeking Alpha (US)
• Wall Street en hausse avant la publication des résultats des entreprises — Jornal de Brasília (BR)
• Actions américaines : le S&P 500 termine en hausse ; les fabricants de puces et les petites capitalisations bondissent — Business Times (SG)

Business — 1 articles

The decline in Chinese EV manufacturers' stocks signals a critical moment for the industry as it faces headwinds following the reduction of government incentives, highlighting the importance of sustainable consumer demand.

• Les actions des fabricants chinois de véhicules électriques dégringolent alors que les ventes chutent après la fin des incitations fiscales — ChinaMorningPost (CN)