Apple Shares Reach 2025 High on Strong iPhone 17 Sales

Unity Software reported a strong fourth-quarter revenue increase of 35% year-over-year to $609 million, surpassing analyst expectations despite a quarterly loss of 66 cents per share. Market volatility remains high as traders react to earnings reports, economic data, and shifts in interest rates, with price swings influenced by company guidance and Federal Reserve remarks. Apple shares reached a new high in 2025 driven by robust iPhone 17 sales, while other consumer stocks like Ralph Lauren and American Express also hit new highs ahead of upcoming earnings reports from major companies such as Coca-Cola, 3M, and General Motors. Investor nerves have been heightened due to concerns over subprime lending and recent bankruptcies in the auto finance sector, sparking volatility and raising questions about regional banks and private credit markets. Despite recent market jitters, optimism persists with expectations of 8.5% earnings growth for S&P 500 companies in the third quarter, and major tech firms including Tesla, Alphabet, and Microsoft preparing to release quarterly results. UK markets are showing signs of rebound following recent drops, with the FTSE 100 futures up and the pound stabilizing slightly above $1.34.