Fewer controllers, yet per-vehicle chip value rises

Xanadu Quantum Technologies (XNDU) partnered with GlobalFoundries to scale production of photonic quantum components on 300 mm semiconductor lines. The focus is on manufacturing ultra-low loss Silicon Nitride circuits and Superconducting Nanowire Single-Photon Detectors for fault-tolerant quantum computing. The collaboration aims to support Xanadu's future quantum computer demonstrators and commercial deployments.

According to GF, it agreed to sell its aerospace and industrial gas turbine investment casting foundry (Precicast-Group) to US-based Consolidated Precision Products Corp. (CPP). Closing is expected by late 2026, subject to conditions. Precicast employs about 600 people across three sites and is expected to generate about CHF 220 million in cash proceeds, used to reduce net debt.

The US battery storage market grew to 52 GW by June 2026, with 8.3 GW added in the first half. Key projects include Nova Power Bank (680 MW), Crimson (350 MW), Nighthawk (300 MW), Cormorant (250 MW), and Bellefield (1,000 MW). These projects highlight different approaches to battery storage, including utility contracts, corporate power agreements, and financing structures.

South Korean retail investors sold $1.1B in semiconductor 3x leveraged ETFs, notably SOXL, and shifted to ultra-short Treasuries and dividend ETFs like SCHD and JEPQ. Concerns over rising interest rates and AI investment slowdown drove the shift. SOXS saw $138.83M in net buying, while individual semiconductor stocks like SK Hynix and Nvidia also faced net selling.

Accenture's Q4 results and FY27 guidance suggest decelerating organic revenue growth, signaling a tougher demand environment for Indian IT firms like TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Tech Mahindra, and HCL Tech. Analysts expect similar moderation for Indian IT services, with potential impacts on growth and margins. Accenture's fixed-price and outcome-based work now account for 65% of bookings, reflecting a shift away from effort-based pricing.

Goldman Sachs initiated coverage of 10 European luxury stocks, rating four Buy: Richemont (CHF225 target), LVMH (€500 target), Moncler (€62 target), and Prada (HK$52 target). The firm expects sector growth to rebound in 2027, with U.S. outperformance continuing. Neutral ratings were given to Kering, Burberry, Brunello Cucinelli, and Zegna, while Hermes and Swatch were rated Sell.