Can Tech and Business Trends Rebound in 2026?

The year 2026 has begun with a mix of optimism and uncertainty in the tech and business worlds. With Nvidia's quarterly earnings report on the horizon, investors are watching closely to see if the artificial intelligence chipmaker can meet the sky-high expectations that have come to define its performance. Meanwhile, Spirit Airlines is working to emerge from its second bankruptcy process, and a popular sandwich chain is trying to win back customers with a new value menu.

Nvidia's earnings report, set to be released on Wednesday, is likely to have a significant impact on the jittery stock market. Analysts are projecting a 68% increase in revenue and a 70% rise in profit, according to FactSet Research. However, as has been the case in recent years, meeting these expectations may not be enough to satisfy investors who are increasingly skeptical about the hype surrounding AI technology.

In contrast, Spirit Airlines is taking a more cautious approach as it works to exit its second bankruptcy process by the summer. The budget carrier's CEO, Dave Davis, says the company is focused on emerging as a "new Spirit" – a smaller, leaner carrier that can offer low fares while also providing more options for premium economy and first-class seating. The airline's plan to exit bankruptcy is contingent on a preliminary deal with its lenders and secured creditors, which would provide the necessary support to finalize changes to its fleet, route network, and cost structure.

While Spirit Airlines is working to restructure, a popular sandwich chain is trying to win back customers with a new $5 value menu. After a 5% sales drop and slipping to third place in the fast-casual market, the chain is betting that lower prices will bring diners back. This move is part of a larger trend in the fast-casual industry, where chains are struggling to adapt to changing consumer preferences and increasing competition.

In other news, a recent survey by Tinder and the Harris Poll found that Gen Z still believes in true love, despite the rise of casual dating and hookup culture. According to the survey, 80% of Gen Z singles believe they will find true love, and 74% believe they will get married. This may come as a surprise to some, given the decline in sex, socializing, and drinking among young people.

Finally, Discord, the popular platform for gamers to communicate online, has delayed its global age verification rollout after receiving backlash from users concerned about their privacy. The company's Chief Technology Officer and co-founder, Stanislav Vishnevskiy, acknowledged that Discord "missed the mark" and is now postponing the rollout to the second half of 2026.

As the year ahead unfolds, it remains to be seen whether these trends will continue or whether new developments will emerge to shape the tech and business landscapes. One thing is certain, however: the coming months will be closely watched by investors, consumers, and industry insiders alike.