August 6, 2025

  • The U.S. toy industry has returned to growth in 2025, with dollar sales increasing by 6% thus far this year, per Circana. Adults are driving the bulk of the growth, with sales increasing by 18% for recipients aged 18 and older (via Globe Newswire).
  • Amazon Autos  is expanding its selection to include used and certified pre-owned (CPO) listings. Said listings are currently on offer in Los Angeles, with more markets opening in short order (via Amazon).
  • Claire’s has again filed for bankruptcy in the U.S., with a filing in Canada on the way. North American stores will remain open as the company navigates the process (via CBC).
  • Apple is expected to announce a further $100 billion investment in expanding its U.S. operations, to be announced by President Trump later on August 6, per a White House official (via CNN Business).
  • Disney posted a Q3 revenue and earnings beat, with the former ticking upward by $2 and adjusted earnings per share blowing past projections of $1.39 to rest at $1.61 (via Deadline).
  • McDonald’s saw a sales turnaround of 2.5% in the quarter ended June 30, at restaurants open for at least a year. CEO Chris Kempczinski, however, hinted that there remained some concern around value coming from lower-income customers (via CNN Business).
  • Columbia is launching a multi-season ad campaign, signaling a return to its “no-nonsense” roots. Titled “Engineered for Whatever,” the campaign features heavy metal, humor, and a sense of adventure which company marketing exec Matt Sutton termed a “bold move” (via Creative Review).
  • Shopify forecast strong Q3 revenue above market estimates, citing continued demand from retailers pertaining to its e-commerce services. In response, shares jumped by almost 20% in early morning trading (via Reuters).
  • Bath & Body Works has brokered deals with bookstore operators, including Barnes & Noble and Follett Corp, to set up shops within ~600 campus stores across the U.S. Fragrances, candles, and other items will be made available to students for purchase (via Reuters).