MONEY (MSM)

The Smart Money Is Still Betting Against Crude Oil

Crude oil prices have remained relatively calm since their 25 percent late-August spike thanks to U.S. dollar weakness and reduced expectations of Fed rate hikes. As a result, many investors are wondering if the bottom is in for crude oil and energy stocks and whether it’s a good time to look for bargains. Ever since warning about the oil bust in June 2014, I have also been trying to determine

Demand for rental apartments buoys U.S. housing starts

U.S. housing starts rose more than expected in September on soaring demand for rental apartments, a sign that the housing market continues to steadily improve even as economic growth has slowed. Groundbreaking increased 6.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual pace of 1.21 million units, the Commerce Department said on Tuesday. It was the sixth straight month that starts remained above 1 million units, pointing to a sustainable housing recovery.

Yum Brands to separate China business after investor pressure

Yum’s shares rose 4.6 percent in premarket trading. Yum China will operate as a publicly traded company and become a franchisee of Yum Brands in mainland China, paying the parent a percentage of its sales for exclusive rights to three of the company’s brands – KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. The split will allow Yum Brands to focus on reenergizing its stagnating business in the United States as well

Verizon revenue beats as promotions help attract postpaid users

The largest U.S. wireless service provider has been facing stiff competition from companies such as T-Mobile US Inc and Sprint Corp, who have been offering massive discounts on call and data plans. Apple launched the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus in September, triggering heavy promotional activity in the telecoms industry towards the end of the third quarter. Verizon shares rose about 2 percent in premarket trading on Tuesday.