Stock Market Update: Apple, Palantir, Paramount, Starbucks, and Li Auto News Today

The stock market is abuzz with news today, with several key companies making headlines. Here’s a roundup of the top stories:

1. **Apple**: Shares of Apple (AAPL) are in focus after Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A, BRK.B) slashed its stake in the tech giant. Despite the reduction, Apple remains Berkshire’s biggest stock holding. Warren Buffett praised Apple at the company’s annual meeting, stating that it would likely remain the company’s largest holding. Apple shares were down 0.3% in premarket trading.

2. **Palantir Technologies**: Palantir (PLTR) shares are up more than 3% ahead of the company’s quarterly earnings report. Analysts expect higher earnings driven by strong demand for its AI-driven software in its commercial business. Investors will be watching to see if Palantir can sustain its growth in the commercial segment.

3. **Paramount Global**: Paramount (PARA) shares are rising after reports that the company is in negotiations with a bidding group led by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Apollo Global Management. The potential deal could be worth around $26 billion in cash. Paramount has been exploring options as it faces challenges in the industry.

4. **Starbucks**: Starbucks (SBUX) shares are on the rise after former CEO Howard Schultz called on the company to improve its U.S. operations. Schultz highlighted the need to focus on fixing the business and improving the mobile ordering platform. Investors are hopeful that Starbucks will address these issues.

5. **Li Auto**: Li Auto (LI) ADRs are surging after the Chinese EV maker reported strong demand for its new cheaper model, the L6. Orders for the L6 have exceeded 41,000 units, driving up the company’s stock. Despite a slight slump in April deliveries, investors are optimistic about Li Auto’s future.

Overall, U.S. stock futures are rising after Friday’s jobs data, with hopes that the Fed could be closer to cutting interest rates. Investors will be closely monitoring these key developments in the market today.