Stocks Have Their Best Quarter Since 2020 & ‘Supergirl’ is a Super Flop

The episode begins with a story about Hayden Wadsworth, an Amazon ads specialist, who helped pivot HydroJug during demand slowdown. HydroJug, a leak-proof tumbler, expanded its product range with a new traveler version to reach more customers, illustrating how Amazon ads can significantly increase product visibility. The story highlights the importance of strategic advertising in e-commerce growth.

The discussion covers the U.S. stock market's strong first half of 2026, with tech stocks like semiconductor and memory companies leading gains. Artificial intelligence (AI) stocks, especially semiconductors, have driven the surge, while the major tech 'Magnificent Seven' have seen declines. The segment explores how AI is shaping the market, creating opportunities in hardware and infrastructure sectors. A halftime review of stocks and sectors underscores trends, including the decline of energy stocks due to geopolitical fears and the underperformance of major software firms.

Research indicates that heavy AI adopters are actually increasing employment, including entry-level jobs, challenging fears of massive job losses. The study suggests AI may boost overall demand and productivity, leading to more jobs. Experts advise job seekers to prefer companies that are investing in AI, insisting that increased AI spending correlates with faster hiring. However, skepticism persists, with some data showing significant job cuts attributed to AI. The debate centers on whether AI is a net creator or destroyer of jobs, especially in vulnerable sectors.

DC Studios' 'Supergirl' movie debuted poorly, with a gross of $37 million against a hefty production and marketing budget, hinting at a potential $100 million loss. The film's failure is attributed to audience misalignment and competition from Marvel movies, signaling challenges for the new DC regime under James Gunn. Despite this setback, upcoming projects like 'Lanterns' and 'Clayface' offer hope, though there is irony in DC's strategy of investing in lesser-known characters after declaring that smaller characters underperform.

California's new law will require streaming platforms to normalize ad volume levels, aligning with traditional broadcast standards. The episode also discusses how old TV shows and movies dominate streaming platforms' viewing hours, with content from the 90s and earlier being most popular, challenging the perception that audiences prefer new original content. Netflix’s strategic continuing investment in original programming sets it apart, suggesting that legacy content is increasingly vital in the streaming era.

Neil’s Numbers segment highlights a fashion/food trend: young women are favoring vintage, off-road SUVs like classic Broncos, often modified with modern features, as a status and cultural expression. The segment also notes Biscoff cookies' remarkable sales growth driven by social media trends, and the unconventional idea of using Greek yogurt on windows to reduce indoor heat during heatwaves.

The episode concludes with updates on AI regulatory developments, notably the lifting of export restrictions on Anthropic’s models, easing fears of governmental overreach. It also notes California’s new law banning loud streaming ads, echoing traditional commercial regulations. The hosts encourage listeners to think about non-perishable entertainment content and to enjoy the upcoming holiday with practical advice like choosing the right hot dog bun style and proper cooking methods.