Here are five things you need to know this morning
BCE profit drops but tops expectations: Profit fell in the latest quarter at BCE but topped analyst estimates, supported by growth in revenue and strong performance from its business and media divisions. Bell Media continues to benefit from digital streaming growth, including gains at Crave and sports streaming platforms. Bell also highlighted rapid expansion in AI-related business services. We`ll find out more when we speak with BCE President and CEO Mirko Bibic, Friday at 10:10 am E.T. BCE is the parent company of BNN Bloomberg, through its Bell Media division.
Nutrien profit misses estimates: Nutrien posted first-quarter earnings that missed analyst expectations, despite growth in sales and fertilizer demand. The Saskatchewan-based company saw revenue rise sharply from a year ago, driven by higher sales across its retail, potash, nitrogen, and phosphate businesses. Fertilizer prices rose during the quarter, led by a surge in nitrogen costs as global supplies tightened due to the middle east conflict.
Sherritt suspending Cuba operations: Sherritt International is suspending participation in its joint venture in Cuba, following expanded U.S. sanctions under the Trump administration. The company says it has not been formally designated under the executive order, but notes such a designation could occur at any time. Sherritt says it is bringing employees back from Cuba and there is currently no immediate impact on its Canadian operations.
CNQ beats expectations: Canadian Natural Resources posted first-quarter earnings that topped analyst expectations, helped by higher production and continued strength in its natural gas operations. Profit slipped to $1.35 billion - more than a billion less than the same period last year. The energy producer saw overall output rise from a year ago, with gains in natural gas and crude oil production helping offset a slight decline in bitumen volumes.
McDonalds tops estimates: Revenue and profit in the latest quarter at McDonalds beat analysts’ expectations, despite what CEO Chris Kempczinski calls “a challenging environment.” In McDonald’s home market, same-store sales increased 3.9 per cent, fueled by customers spending more when they visited. While the fast-food giant has leaned into value to win over budget-conscious diners, it has also been trying to appeal to customers through marketing and innovation, usually at a slightly higher price point.

