WSJ What’s News WSJ What’s News

Why the U.S. Economy Slowed in the Second Quarter

Jul 30, 2026 · 12m

Summary

Markets rallied as Microsoft surged, while Q2 GDP growth slowed to 1.5% due to AI-related imports. Jersey Mike’s and Reformation debuted in IPOs, and Amazon’s earnings beat expectations alongside regulatory approval for its Zoox robotaxis. Meanwhile, the AI-focused hedge fund Situational Awareness sold its portfolio to Citadel after suffering losses, and FIFA faces a potential European boycott over commercial rights plans.

Topics discussed

Intro: ReliaQuest ad and episode preview Q2 GDP slows to 1.5% amid AI import costs Market rally, IPOs for Reformation and Jersey Mike's Ad break and Egypt drone attack update FIFA commercial spinoff threatens World Cup boycott Situational Awareness hedge fund sells portfolio to Citadel Apple and Amazon report strong earnings Regulators approve Amazon Zoox robo-taxis Taco Bell sales dip after cyclospora outbreak Sign off and closing credits
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