Baird has recruited a three-advisor team, HWB Partners, from Goelzer Investment Management in Indianapolis, bringing approximately $1 billion in client assets. Separately, Fair Oaks Wealth Management, led by Bob Halbert, has moved its $140 million practice from Edward Jones to Ameriprise Financial's independent channel. Additionally, Prime Capital Financial has expanded its Fort Worth office by adding Shane Miller as a partner and managing director, enhancing its tax-focused planning capabilities.

Steel Dynamics reported a record first-quarter profit of $403 million, significantly up from previous quarters, driven by record steel shipments and higher steel prices. The Fort Wayne-based company also saw strong performance in its metals recycling and steel fabrication operations, despite an initial operating loss in its aluminum division. Steel Dynamics increased its cash dividend by 6% and expects robust domestic steel and aluminum demand throughout 2026.

NaaS Technology Inc is strategically positioned in China's booming EV charging market with an asset-light "Network-as-a-Service" model, partnering with station owners and focusing on software platforms for billing, scheduling, and maintenance. This approach allows scalable expansion without heavy capital investment, making it an attractive option for global investors looking for exposure to the electrified mobility sector, particularly in English-speaking markets. While offering diversification and potential for growth, the company faces risks including geopolitical tensions, competition, economic slowdowns in China, and regulatory shifts, requiring careful monitoring by investors.

Evercore ISI has increased its price target for KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY) to $26 from $24, maintaining an Outperform rating, following the bank's strong first-quarter 2026 results. The firm also raised its earnings per share estimates for 2026 and 2027, factoring in higher net pre-provision net revenue and increased share repurchases. This positive adjustment aligns with other analysts who also raised their price targets on KeyCorp, citing factors like strong loan growth and balance sheet strength.

In the first quarter of this year, global private equity exit volume decreased, but aggregate transaction value surged thanks to Elon Musk's record-setting $250 billion deal between SpaceX and xAI. This merger, which made up about 80% of the total transaction value for the quarter, redefined global M&A, surpassing Vodafone's 2000 acquisition of Mannesmann. The IPO market, however, remained challenging despite a gradual recovery in 2025.

AbbVie announced an expanded partnership with BioLabs, becoming the founding sponsor of the new BioLabs University of Toronto. This collaboration aims to accelerate life science research and foster innovation in Canada's biotech sector, including providing laboratory space and mentorship to early-stage startups. The initiative supports the Ontario Life Sciences Strategy and strengthens the region's position as a biomanufacturing and life sciences hub.

A recent Lobbying Disclosure Act filing revealed that Humana Inc. disclosed $2,550,000 in lobbying expenses for Q1 2026, targeting issues such as Medicare Advantage, Part D, Medicaid, and pharmacy benefit managers. The report also highlights recent congressional stock trading, insider purchases, and significant institutional investor activity related to HUM stock. Wall Street analysts have issued mostly "Buy" ratings and price targets, with a median target of $195.0.

A recent Lobbying Disclosure Act filing revealed that MERCK & CO INC (MRK) disclosed $4,150,000 in lobbying expenditures for Q1 2026, targeting issues such as the Pharmacy Benefit Manager Reform Act, drug pricing, and various appropriations legislations. The article also details recent congressional and insider trading activity in MRK stock, as well as hedge fund movements and analyst ratings, indicating a mix of institutional interest and continued insider sales.

A recent Lobbying Disclosure Act filing for Q1 2026 revealed that Microsoft Corporation spent $2,390,000 on lobbying efforts. The lobbying focused on a wide array of issues including licensing, competition, trade, government procurement, health IT, cybersecurity policies, AI legislation, privacy, education, and various tax and trade matters. The article also provides details on congressional stock trading, insider trading activity, hedge fund movements, and analyst ratings for Microsoft.

Boeing has disclosed $2,450,000 in lobbying expenditures for Q1 2026, covering a broad range of issues from appropriations acts and environmental regulations to international trade and healthcare. Additionally, the article details recent congressional and insider trading activity in BA stock, as well as significant hedge fund movements and analyst ratings, with a median price target of $272.5.