S&P 500 EARNINGS SMASH EXPECTATIONS Goldman Sachs says S&P 500 companies beat forecasts this earnings season, with Q2 EPS up 11% vs. 4% expected. About 60% beat estimates by wide margins, one of the strongest seasons on record. Firms offset tariffs by cutting costs, reshaping supply chains, and passing prices to consumers, while a weaker dollar boosted sales. Analysts warn smaller companies may face more risk from slowing sales growth.(*Walter Bloomberg)