HP Inc. (HPQ) experienced a stock decline due to US tariffs on Chinese imports, impacting costs and potentially dampening future PC demand [1], [2], [3], [4], [8], [9]. Despite this, Q1 2025 saw increased PC shipments due to pre-tariff stockpiling, with HP benefiting from a 6.1% year-over-year growth [1]. The company is focusing on commercial PC demand and expanding its AI portfolio, including new laptops and AI printing technology [1], [4], [7], partnering with Reincubate for AI-powered video conferencing [4], [7]. While long-term growth potential exists due to these strategic moves, the tariffs and broader macroeconomic headwinds pose significant challenges [1], [2], [3], [4], [8], [9]. One older analysis suggests HPQ is a value stock with poor fundamentals [6], but this contrasts with more recent news highlighting growth opportunities in AI and commercial PCs.

IBM revised its DEI initiatives, removing executive compensation ties to diversity goals and refocusing its supplier diversity program [5]. The company launched the z17 mainframe, integrating AI capabilities and aiming to enhance business operations [6], and acquired Hakkoda, a data and AI consultancy firm, to strengthen its AI service offerings [7]. While facing shareholder pressure for increased lobbying transparency [8], [11], IBM is considered a solid long-term bet due to its focus on hybrid cloud and AI [3]. Despite positive reactions to a tariff pause [9], broader market concerns and potential competition in the AI market from companies like Huawei pose challenges [1], [10].

Stanley Black & Decker (SWK) is releasing Q1 2025 earnings on April 30th, with expectations of declining revenues in both the Tools & Outdoor and Industrial segments due to market softness and divestitures [1]. Despite this, cost-cutting and inventory reduction efforts are expected to improve margins, and the company has a positive Zacks Rank #3 (Hold) [1], [3]. However, a strong dollar and the potential impact of tariffs pose headwinds [1], [5], [8]. While SWK beat Q4 2024 earnings expectations due to cost containment [9], [10], the stock price has declined, reflecting broader market trends [10]. The company is undergoing a strategic transformation focused on streamlining its portfolio and reducing debt, and is viewed by some as an undervalued, albeit higher-risk, opportunity [7], [9]. The recent transition of the Global Chief Supply Chain Officer suggests further restructuring [11].