This Week's Highlights: Balance Sheets and Important Developments

Weekly Updates

Investors are experiencing uncertainties in the markets as the risk of a U.S. government shutdown and the impact of the new Fed Chairman loom, while the BIST 100 Index in Borsa Istanbul continues to reach record levels. The index is approaching a close with an increase of about 6% this week, nearing the 14,000 points threshold.

Important Earnings Announcements

The fourth-quarter earnings season garnered attention with the results of technology giants. Apple (**AAPL**) announced strong results thanks to demand for its flagship product, the iPhone, while Microsoft (**MSFT**) fell short of expectations due to weakness in its cloud unit. Tesla (**TSLA**), despite a decline in revenue, saw positive reception from investors regarding its internal progress.

Otokar's New Investment

Otokar (**OTKAR**) has signed a contract to acquire a 96.77% stake in Romania-based Automecanica. The share acquisition value, set at approximately 85 million euros, will be subject to adjustments in net debt and working capital at closing.

Market Developments

BlackRock’s Frontiers Investment Trust Plc fund has increased its stake in Turkish stocks to 10%, boosting its interest in Turkey. Additionally, Fitch Ratings upgraded the outlook of 9 Turkish banks from "stable" to "positive."

Other Developments

Amazon (**AMZN**) decided to lay off approximately 16,000 employees as part of its restructuring process. Sabancı Holding (**SAHOL**) announced that it received a new offer to acquire shares in Akçansa (**AKCNS**).

Furthermore, Aselsan (**ASELS**) signed export contracts totaling 171 million dollars for the Asia-Pacific market. Overall, the developments in the markets this week are capturing investors' attention.

In a week where many developments will be memorable for investors, keeping up with current information is of great importance. Now, it's time to proceed carefully with new opportunities and strategies.