Alphabet forecasts $175 billion to $185 billion capital expenditure
Alphabet announced that its capital expenditure for 2026 is projected to reach between $175 billion and $185 billion, significantly higher than analysts' expectations of $115.26 billion. This increase is driven by a 48% growth in Google Cloud revenues, which reached $17.7 billion in the fourth quarter, as the company intensifies its investments in AI infrastructure. CEO Sundar Pichai noted that Alphabet's annual revenues surpassed $400 billion for the first time, reflecting strong momentum across its services, particularly in AI-driven products.
Banco Santander to Acquire Webster Financial for $12.3 Billion
Banco Santander has announced a $12.3 billion acquisition of Webster Financial Corporation, a move aimed at enhancing its presence in the U.S. market. The deal will create a combined entity with approximately $327 billion in assets and $172 billion in deposits, making Santander a top-10 retail and commercial bank in the U.S. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
Eli Lilly Projects Strong Profit Growth Amid Market Pressures
Eli Lilly & Co. has forecasted strong profit growth for 2026, expecting earnings between $33.50 and $35 per share, driven by robust demand for its weight-loss drug Zepbound, which contributed to projected full-year sales of $80 billion to $83 billion. In contrast, rival Novo Nordisk A/S warned of significant pricing pressures that could lead to a sales drop of up to 13% this year, resulting in a $50 billion loss in market value. Both companies are facing competition from cheaper alternatives, but Lilly's proactive strategies and favorable patent positions have positioned it advantageously in the expanding obesity market.
