Gannett splits up and Disney reports — five things to know about today

August 5, 2014, 12:23 PM UTC
General Imagery Ahead Of Disney Earnings
Pedestrians pass by the Disney Store in Times Square in New York, U.S., on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012.Walt Disney Co., the largest U.S. entertainment company by market value, said first-quarter profit rose 12 percent on growth at ESPN and its U.S. Resorts. Photographer: Victor J. Blue/Bloomberg via Getty Images
Photograph by Victor J. Blue — Bloomberg/Getty Images

Hello, friends and Fortune readers.

Apparently there is a hotel in upstate New York that fines you $500 if your wedding guests leave negative reviews online. I’m not a lawyer, but I question the enforceability of that policy. Anyway, here’s what you need to know in business today.

1. Walt Disney’s quarterly scorecard

What’s new with the Mouse? Did the runaway success of Frozen translate into huge sales? Will huge ratings from the World Cup, which aired on Disney (DIS) property ESPN, be a positive factor in the company’s earnings? Tune in after the closing bell to find out more.

2. Service sector in the spotlight

The Institute for Supply Management’s monthly non-manufacturing index for July will be released today, which should give a good hint as to how the service sector of the economy is faring. It’s expected to be barely changed from June’s 56 reading. Also, look out for June factory orders, which are expected to rise just slightly after slipping in May.

3. Gannett is splitting up

Another one bites the dust. Following a similar move by E.W. Scripps last week, Gannett is spinning off its print division into a separate company. The publishing business will keep the Gannett name. Other companies to spin off print operations recently include Time Warner, News Corp. and Tribune Co.

4. iOS 8 will include new app functionality

Business Insider is reporting that in the new iPhone operating system, apps will be able to share both information and functions. This will mean less time switching between apps, and a more seamless workflow.

5. Michael Phelps is leaving Speedo behind

When the most decorated Olympic swimmer of all time makes his comeback in Rio next year, he’ll be wearing a different swimsuit. Phelps has left Speedo and signed with Aqua Sphere, according to the Associated Press.

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