AI & Enterprise

Meta shares fall 10 percent while Microsoft jumps 8 percent as AI spending reshapes investor sentiment

Meta pointed to second-quarter advertising growth but failed to ease market concerns about heavy AI investment, with shares sliding nearly 10 percent in after-hours trade after earnings. AI-related spending rose to $31.1 billion, nearly double last year, and free cash flow fell to $784 million from $8.55 billion. Microsoft, which reported a day earlier, drew a more positive response as its AI budget outlook was unchanged and shares rose nearly 8 percent.

Crypto

U.S. Senate reaches compromise on Clarity Act ethics clauses but floor path still unclear

Bipartisan U.S. senators have drawn up a new compromise over ethics provisions in the Clarity Act, a cryptocurrency market-structure bill, but prospects for action before the August recess remain unclear. The compromise was sent to the White House, though its wording has not been disclosed. Democrats have sought tougher rules amid concerns about President Donald Trump’s conflicts of interest. Senate leaders have yet to file key floor motions, and other priorities could push consideration into September.