Dow 50,000, Super Bowl 60, Meta's big week in court and more in Morning Squawk

In a thrilling Super Bowl Sunday, the Seattle Seahawks triumphed over the New England Patriots with a score of 29-13, providing fans with an exhilarating game. The event also featured a surprise halftime performance by Lady Gaga alongside Bad Bunny, much to the delight of viewers. As the markets opened this morning, stock futures were in the red following a robust rally on Friday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average made headlines by surpassing the 50,000 milestone for the first time, closing the week with a remarkable 2.5% gain. This resurgence came after a tumultuous week of trading, where investors regained confidence. Advertising during the big game reached new heights, with 30-second spots going for an average of $8 million. AI companies seized the opportunity, showcasing their brands in high-profile ads, while many automakers chose not to participate. For those streaming the game via NBC's Peacock, an array of smaller brands also managed to shine through more affordable ad slots. In other news, Novo Nordisk is taking legal action against Hims & Hers over their imitation versions of the Wegovy obesity treatment. The Danish pharmaceutical company accuses Hims of misleading consumers and jeopardizing their health by marketing a similar product. Hims has responded by announcing it will withdraw its weight-loss pill from the market after receiving threats of legal action from Novo. The FDA is also expected to take steps against Hims, resulting in a significant drop in the company's shares. Meanwhile, Meta is facing a critical week in court with two separate trials set to begin. In New Mexico, the company stands accused of failing to protect its apps from online predators targeting minors. The lawsuit claims that Meta inadvertently directed young users to harmful content. In Los Angeles, a separate case will address allegations that Meta, along with other social media platforms, failed to inform users about the potential mental health risks associated with their apps. While TikTok and Snap have settled earlier claims, Meta and YouTube will continue to face scrutiny. Interestingly, as we move further into 2026, there appears to be a surge in nostalgia for 2016 among Gen Z consumers. Playlists filled with music from that year are climbing in popularity, reflecting a cultural desire for stability during uncertain times. Retail experts suggest that brands like Abercrombie & Fitch and Urban Outfitters could benefit from this trend, as consumers gravitate toward familiar aesthetics from the past. As the week unfolds, all eyes will be on market performance, ongoing legal developments, and shifts in consumer behavior.