Google, Apple disappoint as tech earnings hit by gloom

23 Sept 07:02 Key points summarised by AI

Google's parent company, Alphabet, reported a significant decline in Q4 2022 revenue and profit, primarily due to a slump in crucial advertising sales, leading to 12,000 layoffs and acknowledging a challenging economic outlook.
Apple posted a fall in quarterly revenue and profits, driven by a drop in flagship iPhone sales, which was largely attributed to manufacturing disruptions in China caused by its zero-Covid policy.
Despite Amazon exceeding sales forecasts for Q4, its net profit dramatically fell, underscoring the volatile economic environment impacting major tech companies.
The overall tech sector faces widespread layoffs and economic pessimism, contrasting with Meta's recent stock surge after it signaled spending cuts and better-than-expected results.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Today 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.