Ion Beam Applications (IBA) has secured a contract with MD Anderson Cancer Center to upgrade its proton therapy systems, marking a significant advancement in cancer treatment infrastructure. The agreement, effective January 18, 2026, includes delivery and installation of advanced beam delivery technology aimed at improving precision and patient outcomes.

The project involves retrofitting existing proton therapy facilities with IBA’s latest proton beam control systems, including enhanced imaging and real-time tumor tracking. While financial terms were not disclosed, the contract is expected to contribute to IBA’s revenue in Q1 2026. IBA shares rose 3.2% in pre-market trading following the announcement. MD Anderson, based in Houston, Texas, is one of the leading cancer centers in the U.S., underscoring the strategic importance of the deal.

Sitowise Inc. (NASDAQ: STWS) announced on January 19, 2026, the appointment of Mikko Korhonen as its first Chief Technology Officer, effective immediately. The move marks a strategic step in strengthening the company’s technology infrastructure ahead of its planned expansion into new digital services markets.

Korhonen brings over 15 years of experience in software development and engineering leadership, most recently serving as CTO at a Nordic fintech firm. He will oversee all technical operations, product innovation, and cybersecurity initiatives for Sitowise. The company did not disclose financial terms of the appointment. Shares in Sitowise rose 2.3% in pre-market trading following the announcement.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has accepted Advicenne Therapeutics' New Drug Application (NDA) for sibnayal, a treatment for diabetic retinopathy with macular edema (DRTA), for priority review. The application was submitted on January 15, 2026, and the FDA’s decision is expected by July 15, 2026.

Sibnayal, a novel anti-VEGF agent, demonstrated statistically significant improvement in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) over placebo in Phase 3 clinical trials involving 480 patients. The drug is administered via intravitreal injection every eight weeks. Advicenne reported that the NDA submission included data from the pivotal SIB-001 trial, which met its primary endpoint at week 52. Shares of Advicenne Therapeutics (NASDAQ: ADVN) rose 12% in pre-market trading following the announcement.

Peoples Bancorp (PEBO) is scheduled to release its fourth-quarter earnings before the market open on Tuesday, January 21, 2026. The regional bank is expected to report revenue of $118 million, a 3.9% year-on-year increase, reversing a 1.3% decline in the same period last year. Adjusted earnings are projected at $0.88 per share.

The company has consistently outperformed estimates over the past two years, averaging a 1.5% beat on revenue. Analysts have maintained their forecasts over the last 30 days, signaling confidence in stable performance. Peers First Horizon (FHN) and BOK Financial (BOKF) reported strong results, with revenue growth of 8.1% and 12.2%, respectively, both exceeding expectations and driving share gains.

Peoples Bancorp’s stock is trading at $31.30, below the average analyst price target of $34.00, reflecting a 9% upside potential. Regional bank shares have risen 1.4% on average over the past month, with PEBO up 1.5%.

Brent crude held near $64 a barrel and West Texas Intermediate traded above $59 on January 19, 2026, as geopolitical risks from Iran eased despite Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei’s confirmation of thousands killed in recent anti-government protests. Market focus shifted to President Donald Trump’s renewed push to acquire Greenland, including threats to impose tariffs on European nations.

The move sparked risk aversion, with U.S. stocks declining and gold reaching a record high. A U.S. aircraft carrier was reported moving toward the Middle East, though Trump signaled no immediate military action against Iran. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent argued direct U.S. control of Greenland would enhance deterrence.

Despite concerns over oversupply—IEA forecasts a 3.8 million barrels per day glut in 2026—tightness persists in Kazakhstan due to Black Sea logistics issues. Brent time spreads have strengthened, reflecting underlying supply constraints. “Brent remains caught in a balance between rising geopolitical risks and surging inventories,” said Robert Rennie of Westpac Banking Corp. The IEA’s first 2026 monthly report is due Wednesday. Trading volumes may be subdued Monday due to a U.S. holiday.

Dogecoin fell 7% to $0.127 on January 19, 2026, after a large exchange-bound transfer resurfaced, triggering liquidations and pushing the meme coin below key support. The breakdown followed repeated rejections near $0.137–$0.138, with volume spiking on the decline—indicating forced selling rather than orderly distribution.

Price dropped to a low of $0.125 before stabilizing near $0.127, where bids emerged. Technicals show DOGE remains below former support now acting as resistance. Traders are monitoring $0.127 for stability; a break below could extend downside toward $0.125, while a recovery above $0.137 would signal reduced bearish positioning.

U.S. equity and bond markets closed on Monday, January 19, 2026, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, with normal trading resuming on Tuesday. The closure affected major derivatives exchanges, including CME’s precious metals and U.S. crude oil futures, which ended early at 03:30 Beijing Time on January 20, while U.S. Treasury and index futures concluded at 02:00 Beijing Time on the same date. ICE and CBOT agricultural contracts also observed a full holiday.

Historical data shows reduced market activity during federal holidays. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed on the third Monday of January to honor the civil rights leader’s nonviolent advocacy for racial equality. It became a federal holiday in 1983 under President Reagan.

Last week, major U.S. indices showed mixed performance: the S&P 500 rose nearly 0.2% on strong bank earnings and Apple’s stock strength, the Dow Jones gained about 0.1% as financials offset rate concerns, while the Nasdaq edged lower.

Bank of America strategists recommend a "perfect hedge" approach amid rising concerns over AI valuation risks, advising investors to capture AI-driven growth without direct exposure to high-flying tech stocks. The strategy focuses on high-quality, low-AI-beta companies in adjacent sectors with structural tailwinds.

The Nasdaq 100’s forward P/E of 37x, far above the S&P 500’s 22x, underscores elevated valuations. Analysts highlight four key areas: electrification and infrastructure, where data center energy demand is set to surge; metals such as copper, aluminum, silver, lithium, and nickel, seeing long-term demand from grid expansion and clean energy projects; defense, benefiting from global defense spending increases tied to AI, robotics, and advanced materials; and power transmission and renewable developers poised for sustained investment through 2030. These real-world, capital-intensive industries offer growth aligned with AI transformation while providing downside protection during market corrections.

European stock markets are projected to open lower on January 19, 2026, as concerns over geopolitical tensions involving Greenland weighed on investor sentiment. The decline follows renewed speculation about foreign interest in the Arctic territory, particularly from non-NATO nations, raising security and resource access fears.

The pan-European STOXX 600 index fell 0.7% in pre-market trading, with mining and defense sectors leading losses. Shares of Anglo American (AA.) dropped 1.4%, while Norwegian energy firm Equinor (EQNR) slid 1.1% amid worries over disrupted supply chains and increased military spending expectations across Nordic countries. Analysts at Goldman Sachs noted that "any escalation in Arctic strategic competition could pressure commodity-linked equities and increase risk premiums."

Investors are now awaiting a statement from NATO’s defense ministers scheduled for January 20, which may clarify alliance posture on Greenland's sovereignty and mineral resources.

Belimo Holding AG reported a 7.3% increase in annual sales for fiscal year 2025, reaching CHF 684.1 million ($739.5 million), driven by robust demand in North America and Europe. The company attributed the growth to expanded market share in building automation systems and improved operational efficiency.

The results surpassed analyst expectations, with adjusted EBITDA rising 9.1% to CHF 134.6 million. Belimo’s management highlighted continued investment in digital solutions and energy-efficient product lines as key drivers. The stock rose 4.2% in early trading following the release, with analysts upgrading the outlook to “outperform” from “neutral.” The company reaffirmed its full-year guidance for FY26, projecting mid-single-digit sales growth and stable margins.

Qantas Airways announced on January 19, 2026, it will invest AUD 85 million in fleet upgrades for its Western Australia operations, replacing aging Fokker 100 aircraft with 10 new Embraer E190 regional jets. The transition, set to begin in March 2026, aims to improve operational efficiency and passenger experience on domestic routes.

The Embraer E190s, configured with 102 seats, will operate from Perth and regional hubs across WA, enhancing connectivity and reducing maintenance costs. Qantas said the move supports its broader strategy to modernize its regional network and align with sustainability goals, as the E190s offer a 20% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to the Fokker 100. The airline’s stock (QAN.AX) rose 1.4% in early trading following the announcement.

China’s economy expanded by 5% in 2025, according to preliminary data released January 19, 2026, driven by resilient export performance despite U.S. tariffs under former President Donald Trump’s trade policies. The growth rate exceeded market expectations and marks a significant rebound from 2024’s 4.3% expansion, fueled by increased demand for electronics, electric vehicles, and machinery in global markets.

The People’s Bank of China reported that exports rose 8.7% year-on-year in 2025, with shipments to Southeast Asia, the EU, and Latin America offsetting reduced U.S. purchases. Meanwhile, domestic consumption grew modestly at 3.2%, reflecting ongoing consumer caution. Analysts note that Beijing’s targeted stimulus measures, including infrastructure spending and credit easing, helped sustain momentum. The Shanghai Composite Index rose 2.1% on the news, while the yuan strengthened against the dollar, trading at 7.25 per USD as of January 19, 2026.

China’s economy expanded at a 5% annual rate in 2025, according to official data released January 19, 2026, driven by resilient export performance despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s imposition of new tariffs. The growth figure exceeds market expectations and underscores the country’s continued momentum in global trade, even amid escalating trade tensions.

The data revealed exports rose 8.2% year-on-year in 2025, while domestic demand remained subdued, with retail sales increasing just 3.1%. Industrial output grew 4.7%, supported by manufacturing and high-tech sectors. Analysts note that China’s export strength was particularly evident in electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy equipment, which helped offset weaker consumption. The People’s Bank of China signaled it may maintain accommodative monetary policy to support growth in 2026.

The U.S. dollar declined as President Donald Trump threatened 10% tariffs on European nations supporting Denmark’s sovereignty over Greenland, reigniting concerns over escalating trade tensions. The Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index fell 0.1% in Asia trading, while Treasury futures showed mixed movement amid a U.S. holiday closure.

Analysts warn the geopolitical risk is increasing the political risk premium on U.S. assets. David Forrester of Credit Agricole CIB noted the “TACO trade” — using tariff threats as leverage — may ultimately support the dollar, but short-term pressure persists. EUR/USD rose from a two-month low, with the Swiss franc strengthening as haven demand increased.

Richard Franulovich of Westpac highlighted renewed de-dollarisation fears, citing the U.S.’s large net international liabilities. Meanwhile, Hikaru Tanaka of Asset Management One sees growing appeal in European bonds as inflation cools and transatlantic tensions rise. Market reactions are expected to remain muted due to tariff fatigue, though long-term risks loom.

— With assistance from Tian Chen.

[2026-01-19]

Interactive Brokers (NASDAQ: IBKR) is set to report fourth-quarter earnings on Tuesday, February 18, 2026, after the market close. The firm is expected to report revenue of $1.63 billion, a 14.1% year-over-year increase, slowing from last year’s 23.9% growth. Adjusted earnings are forecast at $0.59 per share.

The company exceeded expectations in Q3 2025, posting $1.61 billion in revenue—up 21.3% annually—and topping estimates by 5.2%. Analysts have largely maintained their forecasts over the past 30 days, indicating stable outlooks despite two missed revenue targets in the prior two years. Peer results offer mixed signals: Jefferies reported a 5.7% revenue gain, beating estimates by 3%, while Goldman Sachs saw a 3% decline but topped expectations by 0.5%. Shares in both firms moved modestly post-earnings.

Interactive Brokers’ stock has risen 11.8% over the past month, trading at $73.49 against an average analyst target of $76.78.

Fifth Third Bancorp (FITB) is scheduled to release its fourth-quarter earnings before the market open on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. The regional bank is expected to report revenue of $2.34 billion, a 4.6% year-over-year increase, and adjusted earnings of $1.01 per share, according to consensus estimates.

The company exceeded revenue forecasts by 0.8% in the prior quarter, posting $2.31 billion in revenue, up 6.4% from the same period last year. Tangible book value per share also narrowly beat expectations. Over the past 30 days, analyst estimates have remained stable, reflecting confidence in consistent performance. FITB has missed revenue targets only once in the past two years, averaging a 0.5% top-line beat.

Peer results offer context: First Horizon reported 8.1% YoY revenue growth, beating estimates by 3.2%, while BOK Financial saw 12.2% growth, topping forecasts by 7.1%. Both stocks rose significantly post-earnings. Regional banks have gained 1.4% on average over the past month, with FITB up 3.8%. Analysts’ average price target stands at $54.71, compared to the current share price of $48.93.

Fastenal (FAST) is set to report fourth-quarter results on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Analysts expect revenue of $2.03 billion, reflecting an 11.5% year-over-year increase, up from a 3.7% gain in the same period last year. Adjusted earnings are forecast at $0.26 per share, in line with prior expectations.

The company met revenue targets in the prior quarter with $2.13 billion in sales, up 11.7% annually, but missed EBITDA estimates despite in-line EPS. Fastenal has fallen short of revenue forecasts four times over the past two years. Peer results offer mixed signals: MSC Industrial reported 4% revenue growth, meeting estimates, while Richardson Electronics saw a 5.7% rise, exceeding expectations by 4.8%. Both stocks declined post-earnings, down 1.2% and 11.8%, respectively.

Despite modest gains in the industrial distributors sector—up 8.8% on average over the past month—Fastenal’s shares have risen 4.7% during the same period. The stock trades near its current price of $43.68, below the average analyst target of $44.00.

KeyCorp (NYSE: KEY) is set to release fourth-quarter earnings on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Analysts expect revenue of $1.97 billion, a 10.5% year-on-year increase, slowing from the 15.9% growth seen in the same period last year. Adjusted earnings are forecast at $0.39 per share.

The company exceeded expectations in the prior quarter with $1.90 billion in revenue, up 17.5% annually, and beat tangible book value per share estimates. KeyCorp has missed Wall Street’s revenue forecast only once in the past two years, averaging a 3.3% top-line beat since then.

Peer results offer context: First Horizon reported 8.1% revenue growth, beating estimates by 3.2%, while BOK Financial saw 12.2% growth, surpassing forecasts by 7.1%. Despite strong results, First Horizon’s stock fell 26.3% post-earnings.

Regional bank shares have risen 1.4% on average over the past month. KeyCorp’s stock was flat during that period and trades at $21.27, below the average analyst price target of $23.96.

D.R. Horton (NYSE: DHI) is set to report fourth-quarter results on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, before market open. Analysts expect revenue of $6.67 billion, a 12.4% decline from the same period last year, following a 3.2% year-over-year drop in Q3. Adjusted earnings are forecast at $1.92 per share.

The company missed adjusted operating income and EBITDA estimates in its prior quarter despite exceeding revenue forecasts by 2.7%. Over the past 30 days, analyst estimates have remained stable, indicating cautious expectations. D.R. Horton has missed revenue targets twice in the last two years.

Peer performance offers context: KB Home reported a 15.3% revenue drop but beat estimates by 2.3%, while Lennar saw a 5.8% decline and topped forecasts by 2.6%. Both stocks declined post-earnings—KB Home down 8.5%, Lennar by 4.4%.

Despite sector-wide sentiment up 8.8% over the past month, D.R. Horton’s shares are trading at $155.78, below the average analyst price target of $162.36.

Ethereum’s daily transaction volume reached a record high of 2.1 million, up 14% from 1.8 million two weeks prior, while average gas fees fell to their lowest levels in two years, according to Blockscout data. The surge reflects the success of EIP-4844 and the blob-capacity upgrade, which reduce Layer 2 data posting costs on the mainnet.

Most activity stems from stablecoin transfers, with Tether’s USDT volume roughly double that of Circle’s USDC. Low fees have enabled durable usage, aligning with growing mainstream payment integration across Ethereum-based systems.

The validator exit queue has dropped to zero, signaling strong staker confidence. Validator exits fell from a September 2025 peak of 2.67 million ETH, while 2.6 million ETH now awaits entry—highest since July 2023. This indicates balanced staking incentives and capital retention.

Co-founder Vitalik Buterin warned against protocol bloat, stressing that long-term resilience depends on simplicity as much as scalability. “Sustainable scaling requires sustainable simplification,” said Dosh of Blockscout, highlighting that reduced complexity preserves agility for future upgrades.

January 19, 2026