$DRI

S&P 500 fell 1.36% Wednesday on hot inflation data. Traders bet 55% odds of lower opening Thursday amid Middle East tensions, oil above $111, and key economic data ahead.

Retail earnings reveal consumer bifurcation: luxury brands like Lululemon and Williams-Sonoma struggle with declining sales, while budget retailers and cruise operators show surprising resilience.

Brinker's Chili's brand doubles restaurant profits with 16.3% same-store sales growth, yet $EAT trades at 14x forward earnings versus peers' 20x-28x multiples.

Questex's Vibe Conference achieved record attendance and sponsor engagement with 30% first-time attendees, signaling robust on-premise beverage sector health amid industry focus on AI and customer loyalty.

Casual dining chains outpace fast food as price-conscious consumers shift their spending. Fast-food price hikes narrow the cost advantage, making full-service restaurants more competitive.