Key Insights from Zacks on Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Starbucks, and Chipotle Mexican Grill

FOMC Holds Rates Steady Amid Market Reactions

On July 30, 2026, the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) in Chicago voted to maintain the Fed funds rate at +3.50-3.75% for the fifth consecutive meeting. The decision saw dissent from Cleveland’s Beth Hammack, Minneapolis’ Neel Kashkari, and Dallas’ Lorie Logan, who advocated for a 25 basis-point hike. Fed Chair indicated that inflation targets remain firm, directly referencing a 2% goal amidst ongoing supply shocks, particularly citing rising oil prices due to the war in Iran. Following the announcement, the 10-year bond yield rose from +4.63% to +4.69%.

In the corporate earnings landscape, major companies reported mixed results: Meta Platforms’ shares fell by 7% after posting Q2 earnings of $6.18 per share—below expectations—and revenues of $60.80 billion. Microsoft exceeded estimates with earnings of $4.74 per share and revenues of $90.01 billion, significantly aided by a $3.2 billion gain from Anthropic. Meanwhile, Qualcomm’s shares dipped 4.4% after earnings of $2.21 per share missed by one cent, even as revenues reached $9.95 billion. Starbucks reported earnings of 85 cents per share on $9.3 billion in revenue, below predictions, while Chipotle’s modest earnings beat expectations.