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• Expedia

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Economy & Finance

Expedia

Expedia shares surged over 8% on Friday after the company exceeded quarterly profit expectations, despite cautioning about weaker future demand. The company has benefited from a rise in international travel, especially to Europe and the Middle East, but expects this demand to soften due to high borrowing costs and persistent inflation. Additionally, Expedia lowered its 2024 bookings growth guidance, joining other travel companies like Airbnb in noting that consumers are becoming more cautious with their travel spending. Analysts believe the stock rally may be due to investors perceiving the guidance as conservative.

Technology

X

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has escalated his conflict with Elon Musk by imposing a 10-day ban on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, accusing Musk of inciting violence and unrest following a contested presidential election. This move is part of broader tensions, as Maduro and Musk have exchanged public insults and challenges. The ban coincides with ongoing protests in Venezuela over the disputed election results, which have led to widespread accusations of fraud. International leaders, including those from the U.S. and several Latin American countries, have called for greater transparency in the election process, while Maduro's government continues to crack down on dissent, with over 2,000 arrests reported.

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