:

BLOCK BEATS Q1 ESTIMATES, RAISES 2026 PROFIT OUTLOOK

AI DESK1 MIN READ
THU, MAY 7, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

Block Inc. reported first-quarter revenue of $6.1 billion, exceeding analyst expectations of $5.9 billion and marking 5% year-over-year growth. The company also raised its 2026 gross profit forecast above consensus estimates.

Block's stronger-than-expected performance drove its stock up 7% in after-hours trading. The payments and financial services company delivered the beat despite executing significant workforce reductions tied to artificial intelligence initiatives. The raised 2026 guidance signals confidence in the company's ability to drive profitability while managing operational changes. Block has been restructuring operations to integrate AI capabilities across its portfolio, which includes Square, Cash App, and other financial services offerings. The results reflect ongoing demand for Block's core payment processing services and digital banking products. Investors responded positively to both the topline beat and forward-looking profit expectations, suggesting market approval of management's strategic direction.

■ SOURCES

Techmeme

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

■ MORE FROM THE BUSINESS DESK

The Tetris Company has pushed back against a Tetris-style game called 'Build the Wall' hosted on the White House website. The game is one of six new titles recently added to the official site.

1H AGOIndustry Desk

GoPro CEO Nick Woodman pledged continued commitment to camera development following the company's proposed $285 million acquisition by Starman, emphasizing that making cameras remains the company's core business.

5H AGOIndustry Desk

South Korean gaming company Krafton is investing an additional $250 million in India, bringing its total planned investment in the country to over $500 million.

8H AGOIndustry Desk

U.S. CD revenue jumped 58.6% in the first half of 2026, reversing last year's decline. The resurgence reflects growing consumer interest in physical media and vintage technology formats.

8H AGOIndustry Desk

■ SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY BRIEF

ONE EMAIL, 5 STORIES, 06:00 UTC. UNSUBSCRIBE ANYTIME.