Stellantis CEO Reconfirms 2026 Guidance as Automaker’s Shares Hit New Low
Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa has reaffirmed the automaker’s 2026 financial guidance as the company continues implementing its turnaround strategy, despite its shares reaching a new low.
Filosa said Stellantis remains committed to its outlook for 2026, which includes mid-single-digit revenue growth and a low-single-digit adjusted operating margin. The company is also targeting positive cash flow in 2027 and stronger free cash flow in the following years.
The reaffirmation comes as Stellantis works to recover from declining sales, weaker profitability and challenges across several of its major markets. The automaker has been implementing its broader turnaround plan, which includes new vehicle launches, operational improvements and efforts to strengthen its position across key regions.
Recent improvements in revenue have provided some support for the recovery strategy, but the company continues to face pressure from changing consumer demand, production challenges and intense competition in the global automotive market.
The decline in Stellantis shares highlights the concerns surrounding the pace and scale of the company’s recovery. Despite the market pressure, Filosa has maintained that the turnaround plan remains on track and that the company is focused on delivering its financial targets.
Stellantis now faces the challenge of translating its strategy into sustained improvements in sales, profitability and cash generation as it moves through 2026.
Ford Fends Off Hyundai to Retain No. 3 U.S. Sales Position in Third Quarter
Ford has retained its position as the third-largest automaker in the U.S. by vehicle sales during the third quarter, narrowly staying ahead of Hyundai Motor Group in an increasingly competitive market.
Ford sold more than 509,000 vehicles during the quarter, while Hyundai Motor Group, including Hyundai, Kia and Genesis, recorded slightly more than 506,000 sales. The narrow gap made the quarter one of the closest races for the third position in the U.S. automotive market.
Ford’s performance was supported by continued demand for pickup trucks and SUVs. Its F-Series lineup remained a major contributor to sales, while the company also saw strong interest in models such as the Maverick hybrid pickup.
However, Ford continues to face challenges, including production disruptions and changing consumer demand. The company is also navigating a rapidly evolving market as automakers compete over electric vehicles, hybrids and traditional gasoline-powered models.
Hyundai Motor Group’s sales growth has added further pressure on established U.S. automakers. Its expanding lineup across Hyundai, Kia and Genesis has helped the group strengthen its presence in the American market.
Ford’s ability to retain the No. 3 position highlights the strength of its truck and SUV portfolio, while the small sales gap shows how closely the two automotive groups are competing for market share.
American Airlines Lets Customers Mix Cash and Miles for Tickets
American Airlines is introducing a new payment option that will allow AAdvantage members to combine cash and miles when booking flights, giving travelers greater flexibility when using their loyalty rewards.
Under the new system, eligible customers will be able to choose how much of their ticket they want to pay with miles and how much with cash. Travelers can select their preferred combination during the booking process, with the total cost adjusting based on the amount of miles used.
The option could be particularly useful for customers who have accumulated miles but do not have enough to cover an entire ticket through a traditional award booking. Instead of waiting to earn additional miles, travelers can use their existing balance toward part of the fare and pay the remaining amount in cash.
American is initially introducing the feature for eligible domestic flights, with plans to expand the program over time. Customers will be able to access the option through American’s website and mobile app.
The move comes as airlines continue to expand their loyalty programs beyond traditional flight redemptions. Flexible payment options can encourage travelers to use their accumulated rewards while maintaining the convenience of regular cash bookings.
For American, the new feature adds another way for AAdvantage members to redeem their miles and provides greater choice during the ticket purchasing process.
Burger King Bets on Local Franchisees to Fuel Its U.S. Comeback
Burger King is turning to local franchisees as a key part of its strategy to strengthen its U.S. business and accelerate its ongoing comeback.
The fast-food chain is shifting toward a model in which independent franchise operators manage more of its restaurants. The company believes local owners can bring greater attention to individual locations, employees and customer needs while improving day-to-day restaurant operations.
The strategy follows Burger King’s acquisition of a large number of restaurants from Carrols Restaurant Group. The company is now working to return many of those locations to franchise ownership as part of its broader turnaround efforts.
Burger King’s plan includes restaurant renovations, updated technology, marketing investments and improvements to its menu and customer experience. The company is also encouraging franchisees to invest in modernising restaurants and strengthening their local operations.
The shift comes as Burger King faces intense competition from other major fast-food chains in the U.S. Consumers are increasingly looking for value, convenience and improved dining experiences, making restaurant execution an important factor in attracting customers.
Burger King has reported stronger sales in recent periods, giving the company momentum as it continues its recovery.
By relying more heavily on local franchise operators, Burger King hopes to create a more responsive restaurant network while reducing the amount of capital tied up in company-owned locations. The approach forms a central part of the chain’s broader effort to regain market momentum in the U.S.
