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Morning Dose: Geopolitics Rattle Markets Summit Scene Shifts Trading – Monday 8/18/2025

August 18, 2025 5:14
Tickers Mentioned
BTAIDAYNVOCVSDUOLLLY
Episode Summary
Markets consolidate after record highs as Trump-Putin summit creates uncertainty. Jackson Hole and Powell's Friday speech in focus. Healthcare and Communications lead; analysts upgrade CVS and Duolingo, downgrade Eli Lilly. Patience advised.
Key Takeaways
  • Markets consolidating after record highs, futures showing modest dip
  • Trump-Putin summit on Ukraine creates geopolitical uncertainty for markets
  • Jackson Hole assembly this week, Powell speaks Friday on rates
  • Healthcare and Communication Services sectors showing leadership and strength
  • Patience key in consolidation phase, focus on relative sector strength
0:00 / 5:14

Morning Dose: Geopolitics Rattle Markets Summit Scene Shifts Trading

A quick analysis of today’s market outlook and key trading opportunities to start your day.

Intro & Market Mood

Welcome to The Morning Dose – Everything You Need to Know Before the Market Opens. Today, the market is starting the week on a slightly softer note, with futures pointing to a modest dip after last week’s record highs. Traders seem to be in a consolidation phase, digesting gains fueled by rate cut hopes.

Overnight Headlines

Geopolitics takes the spotlight with the Trump-Putin summit. The focus is a potential sweeping peace agreement involving Ukraine and U.S. security guarantees, a wildcard for the market. Keep a close eye on this throughout the day.

Economic Announcements

This week is light on data, with the Jackson Hole assembly starting Thursday. All eyes will be on Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s speech on Friday for any hints on rate policy.

Earnings Highlights

  • BTAI (BioXcel Therapeutics) surging nearly thirty percent on positive FDA meeting news for agitation drug.
  • DAY (Dayforce) up over twenty-six percent on reports of potential acquisition by Thoma Bravo.
  • NVO (Novo Nordisk) trading higher due to FDA expanding Wegovy’s approval for liver disease treatment.

Top Movers

Tech is showing nuance, with a mild bullish undertone but selectivity needed post Friday’s pressure. Healthcare and Communication Services sectors are currently displaying strength and leadership.

Quick Trade Ideas

Key upgrades: CVS Health to Buy, Duolingo to Overweight. Notable downgrade: Eli Lilly to Neutral.

Key Takeaway

Patience is key in this consolidation phase with major geopolitical and Fed events ahead. Focus on relative strength in sectors like healthcare and communications. Monitor technical levels, but let the market guide your trading decisions.

Have a great trading day, everyone!

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