Investors are creatures of habit. They are influenced by behavioral finance, and their decisions are often driven by psychological factors, emotions, and cognitive biases. The result: choices that, in hindsight, could be regrettable.
That subjective decision-making was on full display last week, as the fear-driven semiconductor sell-off wiped out $2.7 trillion in market cap from some of the biggest winners over the past year.
But what we have learned is that those fears—warranted or not—have manifested before. And time and time again, the sellers are left on the sidelines as the tech sector bounces back.
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The reality is that despite a series of all-time highs for the major indices, triple-digit gains for AI-leveraged stocks, and a concerning pattern of circular financing, the structural rally in memory chip makers remains intact.
Why Chip Stocks Sold Off Despite Strong AI DemandMarket contrarians have been on the lookout for the next bubble ever since the last one burst. But the ongoing AI-fueled bull market is not the same as the dot-com crash, which was notable for unsustainable valuations, untenable burn rates, and prioritizing growth over profitability.
Rather, the so-called AI bubble has proven to be multi-faceted and constantly evolving. And like any run-up in price, the latest pullback in chip stocks was less a symptom of an overextended market than it was a component of a healthy market cycle.
Still, jittery investors dumped shares over concerns about rising hardware input costs, debt spending, and ballooning CapEx.
Apple NASDAQ: AAPL, for instance, recently announced price hikes for Macs and iPads, directly attributing those increases to the memory chip shortage.
Gaming hardware is feeling the pressure as well. Microsoft NASDAQ: MSFT increased its XBOX console prices, and Nintendo OTCMKTS: NTDOY showed similar strain with a Switch 2 price increase set to take effect Sept. 1.
CapEx is another concern. A perceived rift between hyperscalers’ consumption and memory suppliers’ production has surfaced, with investors concerned about potential return-on-investment shortfalls.
Collectively, four of the biggest hyperscalers—Alphabet NASDAQ: GOOGL, Amazon NASDAQ: AMZN, Meta Platforms NASDAQ: META, and Microsoft—are on track to reach more than $700 billion in CapEx this year. But Wall Street isn’t convinced that that spending spree will materialize in earnings.
Analysts question whether that funding will result in near-term, high-margin revenue, given that those companies aren’t just paying for more hardware; they are paying vastly inflated prices. For example, during its Q3 FY2026 earnings call, Microsoft’s CFO Amy Hood disclosed that $25 billion of its projected $190 billion CapEx is being driven by component inflation rather than new capacity.
Still, even with trillions wiped out from memory chip market caps in June, the PHLX Semiconductor Index remains up more than 11% over the past month, nearly 99% year to date, and 157% over the past year. With the shortage forecast to last at least through 2028 while enjoying a compound annual growth rate of 11.6% through 2030, the recent pullback has proven to be a valuation correction rather than a breakdown in long-term demand.
The Proof in the Pudding for Micron and the Roundhill Memory ETFIn the first half of 2025, Micron Technology NASDAQ: MU was a little-known name. In Q1 FY2025, its market cap stood at just over $108 billion. Today, the company’s market cap is approximately $1.2 trillion, making it the 12th largest U.S.-listed company.
Micron has gained over 200% year-to-date and over 750% over the past 52 weeks. The company hasn’t missed on earnings since Q2 FY2023, and the company’s year-over-year earnings growth in Q3 FY2026 was over 1,358%.
Micron Technology, Inc. (MU) Price Chart for Thursday, July, 2, 2026
Still, the stock carries a consensus Buy rating, a 12-month price target of more than 20% from current prices, and Micron announced gross margins of nearly 85% and earnings per share of $25.11 when it reported Q3 results on June 24.
Importantly, during its earnings call, the company said it signed 16 strategic customer agreements covering data center, consumer, auto, and other markets, which it believes will transform its business model, showing that demand isn’t being driven solely by hyperscalers.
Meanwhile, one thematic exchange-traded fund (ETF) continues to prove June’s panic-sellers wrong.
Roundhill Memory ETF Today
DRAM
Roundhill Memory ETF
$65.86 -7.99 (-10.82%)
As of 07/1/2026 04:10 PM Eastern
52-Week Range$26.14▼
$81.34Assets Under Management$25.91 billion
Less than two weeks after making its debut, MarketBeat profiled the Roundhill Memory ETF BATS: DRAM.
The ETF was designed explicitly to provide targeted exposure to the memory chip industry.
Since its launch on April 2, the fund has gained over 130% despite the recent and sizable sell-off.
For context, over the same period, Alphabet—the best Magnificent Seven performer—gained less than 21%, underscoring the raw growth potential of memory chip makers, the ETFs that track them, and the individual and semiconductor stocks that are in their baskets.
DRAM holds Micron, SK Hynix (which recently filed for its NASDAQ IPO), and Samsung OTCMKTS: SSNLF, which together are three of the newest members of the trillion market cap club. Icing the cake, the ETF also owns Sandisk NASDAQ: SNDK, Western Digital NASDAQ: WDC, and Seagate Technology NASDAQ: STX.
Should You Invest $1,000 in Roundhill Memory ETF Right Now?Before you consider Roundhill Memory ETF, you'll want to hear this.
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Project delivered under a US$41 million EPC agreement as part of the 21 MW DC Honeywell portfolio in upstate New York 7.01 MW DC ground-mount solar facility now operational, capable of powering approximately 875 homes with clean energy annually Project expected to operate as a community solar site, selling credits to subscribers under the NYSERDA NY-Sun Program , /PRNewswire/ - PowerBank Corporation (NASDAQ: PBK) (Cboe CA: PBK) (FSE: 103) ("PowerBank" or the "Company"), a leader in independent energy development and asset ownership in North America, today announces that the 7.01 MW DC / 5 MW AC ground-mount community solar project known as SB-14 (the "Project"), located in upstate New York, has achieved commercial operation. The 7.01 MW Project was developed and constructed by PowerBank for Honeywell International Inc. (NASDAQ: HON) ("Honeywell") as part of the Company's US$41 million engineering, procurement, and construction ("EPC") agreement covering a portfolio of three community solar projects totaling 21 MW DC. The Project is built on an industrial brownfield owned by Honeywell, which is regulated by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The Project has been moved from Honeywell International Inc. to Honeywell Aerospace Inc., following the planned spinoff of Honeywell Aerospace on June 29, 2026.
PowerBank originated the site and developed SB-14 as part of a three-project portfolio alongside SB 13-1 and SB 13-2. This is the second project from the portfolio to reach commercial operation, and brings the total to 14.02 MW of clean energy now being generated for the community.
In September 2023, the Company completed the sale of the Projects to Honeywell and entered into an EPC agreement to build the Projects through to commercial operation. The total transaction value, including the sale of the Projects and the EPC agreement, is approximately US$41 million. PowerBank has retained an operations and maintenance contract for the Projects.
Community solar allows dozens or even hundreds of renters and homeowners to save money from the electricity generated by the project. By subscribing to a community solar project, a homeowner earns credits on their electric bill every month from their share of the solar energy generated, accessing the financial and environmental benefits of solar without installing panels on their home.
Andrew van Doorn, President and COO of PowerBank, commented: "Reaching commercial operation on SB-14 reflects the strength of our long-standing partnership with Honeywell and the consistent execution our team brings to every project. Developing a community solar facility on a regulated industrial brownfield requires precision at every stage, and delivering that cleanly speaks to the maturity of PowerBank's development and construction platform. We are proud of what this team has built here, and we look forward to bringing the final project across the finish line."
PowerBank's proven expertise, with over 100 MW of completed projects and a development pipeline exceeding 1 GW, underpins the project's execution. PowerBank is increasingly well-positioned to serve not only traditional utility and community solar offtakers, but also the rapidly growing demand for reliable, on-site power generation driven by AI compute infrastructure and modular data centers.
About PowerBank Corporation
PowerBank Corporation is a vertically integrated and independent North American energy company helping to power the digital economy. The Company develops, builds, owns, and operates solar and battery energy storage systems that deliver reliable, resilient, and behind-the-meter power to the electricity grid, commercial and industrial clients, and municipal and residential off-takers. As AI and digital infrastructure drive unprecedented electricity demand, PowerBank is uniquely positioned to deliver the speed, scale, and energy independence that the next generation of power consumers requires, without waiting years for grid interconnection. The Company has a potential development pipeline of over one gigawatt and has developed energy projects with a combined capacity of over 100 megawatts built. To learn more about PowerBank, please visit www.powerbankcorp.com.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This news release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements") that relate to the Company's current expectations and views of future events. Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, through the use of words or phrases such as "will likely result", "are expected to", "expects", "will continue", "is anticipated", "anticipates", "believes", "estimated", "intends", "plans", "forecast", "projection", "strategy", "objective" and "outlook") are not historical facts and may be forward-looking statements and may involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results or outcomes to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements. In particular and without limitation, this news release contains forward-looking statements pertaining to the Company's expectations regarding its industry trends and overall market growth; the Company's plans to add AI compute infrastructure and modular data centers; the Company's plan to provide energy and battery storage solutions; potential revenues; and the size of the Company's development pipeline. No assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking statements included in this news release should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release.
Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and analyses made by the Company in light of the experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors it believes are appropriate, and are subject to risks and uncertainties. In making the forward looking statements included in this news release, the Company has made various material assumptions, including but not limited to: obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals; that regulatory requirements will be maintained; execution of definitive agreements for suitable solar or BESS sites; that power is available to be sufficient to support a modular data center; general business and economic conditions; the Company's ability to successfully execute its plans and intentions; the availability of financing on reasonable terms; the Company's ability to attract and retain skilled staff; market competition; the products and services offered by the Company's competitors; that the Company's current good relationships with its service providers and other third parties will be maintained; and government subsidies and funding for renewable energy will continue as currently contemplated. Although the Company believes that the assumptions underlying these statements are reasonable, they may prove to be incorrect, and the Company cannot assure that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Given these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, investors should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.
Whether actual results, performance or achievements will conform to the Company's expectations and predictions is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors, including those listed under "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors" in the Company's most recently completed Annual Information Form, and other public filings of the Company, which include: the Company may be adversely affected by volatile solar power market and industry conditions; failure to execute definitive agreements for suitable solar or BESS sites; power availability may not be sufficient to support a modular data center; the execution of the Company's growth strategy depends upon the continued availability of third-party financing arrangements; the Company's future success depends partly on its ability to expand the pipeline of its energy business in several key markets; governments may revise, reduce or eliminate incentives and policy support schemes for solar and battery storage power; general global economic conditions may have an adverse impact on our operating performance and results of operations; the Company's project development and construction activities may not be successful; developing and operating solar Project exposes the Company to various risks; the Company faces a number of risks involving Power Purchase Agreements ("PPAs") and project-level financing arrangements; any changes to the laws, regulations and policies that the Company is subject to may present technical, regulatory and economic barriers to the purchase and use of solar power; the markets in which the Company competes are highly competitive and evolving quickly; an anti-circumvention investigation could adversely affect the Company by potentially raising the prices of key supplies for the construction of solar power projects; foreign exchange rate fluctuations; a change in the Company's effective tax rate can have a significant adverse impact on its business; seasonal variations in demand linked to construction cycles and weather conditions may influence the Company's results of operations; the Company may be unable to generate sufficient cash flows or have access to external financing; the Company may incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future; the Company is subject to risks from supply chain issues; risks related to inflation and tariffs; unexpected warranty expenses that may not be adequately covered by the Company's insurance policies; if the Company is unable to attract and retain key personnel, it may not be able to compete effectively in the renewable energy market; there are a limited number of purchasers of utility-scale quantities of electricity; compliance with environmental laws and regulations can be expensive; corporate responsibility may adversely impose additional costs; the future impact of any global pandemic on the Company is unknown at this time; the Company has limited insurance coverage; the Company will be reliant on information technology systems and may be subject to damaging cyberattacks; the Company may become subject to litigation; there is no guarantee on how the Company will use its available funds; the Company will continue to sell securities for cash to fund operations, capital expansion, mergers and acquisitions that will dilute the current shareholders; and future dilution as a result of financings.
The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by law. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of them, or assess the impact of each such factor or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Any forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement.
Malaysia: TotalEnergies Divests its Minority Non-Operated Interest in Marjoram Gas Field TotalEnergies (Paris:TTE) LSE:TTE NYSE:TTE announces the divestment to INPEX of its 85% interest in Block 2E offshore Malaysia, representing a net interest of 8.5% in the Marjoram gas field currently under development, for a consideration of USD 350 million.
Through this transaction, TotalEnergies crystallizes the full value of this minority interest in a non-operated gas project, to focus on its operated portfolio and strategic growth opportunities in Malaysia.
“This agreement is fully aligned with our strategy of actively managing our portfolio and prioritizing material positions to support our ambition to develop low-cost, low-emission projects. With Jerun field now on stream and a large portfolio of opportunities, Malaysia is a strategic platform for TotalEnergies’ low-cost, low-emission growth strategy, serving both the country and the wider Southeast Asia region,” said Nicolas Terraz, President Exploration & Production at TotalEnergies.
***
About TotalEnergies in Malaysia
TotalEnergies has been present in Malaysia since 1985 and has maintained a long-standing partnership with the national oil company PETRONAS. Following the acquisition of SapuraOMV Upstream, TotalEnergies became the country’s third-largest gas producer.
The Group employs around 300 people in Malaysia and holds operated and non-operated interests in 17 offshore blocks off the coast of Sarawak and Sabah.
Through its subsidiary TotalEnergies Marketing Malaysia, TotalEnergies also markets petroleum products. In 2023, the Group signed an agreement with PETRONAS and Mitsui to develop a CO₂ storage project in Southeast Asia and to assess several potential sites in the Malay Basin.
On the 2nd of April 2026 TotalEnergies and Masdar announced the creation of a $2.2 billion joint venture to accelerate the growth of renewable energy in Asia and particularly in Malaysia.
About TotalEnergies
TotalEnergies is a global integrated multi-energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas, biogas and low-carbon hydrogen, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to providing as many people as possible with energy that is more affordable, more available and more sustainable. Present in around 120 countries, TotalEnergies places sustainable development at the heart of its strategy, its projects and its operations.
Cautionary Note
The terms “TotalEnergies”, “TotalEnergies company” or “Company” in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies’ financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Universal Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20260630556148/en/
Disclosures I/we have no positions in any stocks mentioned, and have no plans to buy any new positions in the stocks mentioned within the next 72 hours.
Stryker is a Dividend Aristocrat with 32 years of increases, robust cash flow, and a strong M&A-driven growth strategy. SYK's Q1 2026 results were impacted by a cybersecurity incident, but management maintained full-year guidance and expects normalization. The stock trades at ~21x 2026E EPS, below its 5-year average, suggesting undervaluation despite recent share price declines.
General Dynamics delivered 10.3% revenue growth in Q1 2026, with all four segments growing. Marine Systems led the quarter, helped by Columbia-class and Virginia-class submarine work. Backlog reached $130.8 billion, up 47.6% year over year.
Banks have rallied during the past few months, lifting the KBW Nasdaq Bank Index, which tracks the largest U.S. bank stocks, more than 12% so far this year.
But there is one often overlooked sector of the banking industry that has outperformed considerably: custody banks. These are not like traditional banks that lend to consumers and businesses. They hold and service huge amounts of institutional assets -- such as mutual funds, pensions, exchange-traded funds (ETFs), stocks and other investments, real estate, cash, hedge funds, endowments, and 401(k)s -- all from large institutions.
They collect fees on these assets for servicing and holding them -- and those fees rise as the asset totals increase.
Image source: Getty Images.
In addition, custody banks hold clients' uninvested cash and pay a low deposit rate. But they aggregate cash and reinvest it in liquid, higher-yielding short-term instruments, profiting off the difference.
They also make money through securities lending, where they loan idle stocks and bonds from their clients to third parties -- like brokers or hedge funds -- to settle short sales or other trades. In exchange, the borrower provides collateral, typically bonds or cash, which the custody bank then invests and splits the return with the borrower.
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In addition to custody services, all banks have asset management arms with a roster of ETFs, funds, and separate accounts. State Street (STT +0.54%), one of the largest custody banks, runs the SPDR funds through its asset management arm.
It is a very sturdy, all-weather business dominated by a few major players. Right now, the leading custody banks, State Street, BNY Mellon (BNY +0.97%), and Northern Trust (NTRS +1.01%), are firing on all cylinders.
The top custody banks are all significantly outperforming other bank stocks and hovering near all-time highs. State Street is up 32% this year, while BNY Mellon has gained 26%, and Northern Trust has rallied 29%.
BNY Mellon is the largest custodian bank, overseeing some $59 trillion in client assets. It also manages $2 trillion in assets. In the first quarter, BNY Mellon reported record revenue of $5.4 billion, up 13% year over year. Fee income rose 12% year over year to $3.8 billion, while net interest income jumped 18% to $1.4 billion. Further, net income spiked 36% to $1.6 billion, while earnings rose 42% to $2.24 per share.
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What sparked the surge in revenue despite a rocky first quarter? A few factors benefited BNY Mellon and custody banks that did not apply to traditional consumer banks.
BNY Mellon attracted more deposits and client assets, as more of its large clients made a flight to safety during a volatile quarter. They sought the safety of parking their cash and gaining interest. This helped BNY Mellon increase assets under custody (AUC), which boosted fee income. Custody assets rose 12%, and average deposits surged 13% year over year.
In addition, BNY Mellon saw a spike in trading and foreign exchange income because, during volatile markets, the number of transactions by pensions and funds increase to rebalance and make changes to their portfolios. Further, the high interest rates on short-term bonds and investments in which BNY Mellon invested its assets helped raise spreads and net interest income.
I'm using BNY Mellon as an example, but the other major custody banks had similar results.
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These custody banks will release their Q2 earnings in the coming weeks. BNY Mellon reports earnings on July 15, followed by State Street on July 16 and Northern on July 22.
All three stocks are buys heading into earnings because they are relatively cheap, are stable businesses as the dominant players among a small group of competitors that collect fees no matter the market environment, and aren't as reliant on net interest income. But with the S&P 500 (^GSPC 0.22%) rising almost 15% in Q2, these custody banks should see AUC and revenue surge to perhaps new records.
CrowdStrike stock NASDAQ:CRWD looked like it had fallen off a cliff on Thursday, with the stock moving from roughly $773 at Wednesday’s close to about $193 on split-adjusted screens.
The scary-looking drop was not a selloff, but a company’s scheduled 4-for-1 stock split taking effect.
Investors who held one share now hold four, each priced at roughly one-quarter of the old level.
It means the total value of the position remains unchanged.
CrowdStrike’s 4-for-1 split took effect on July 2, after the company distributed additional shares following the July 1 close.
Shareholders of record as of June 25 received three extra shares for every one share they already owned, the company said when it reported first-quarter results.
Trading was expected to begin on a split-adjusted basis on July 2.
The math is straightforward as a shareholder with one CrowdStrike share worth about $773 on Wednesday would now hold four shares worth about $193 each, before any normal market moves.
A holding worth $7,730 across 10 shares becomes a holding worth roughly the same amount across 40 shares.
That is why the headline number looks dramatic, but the economics do not. A stock split does not change market capitalisation, ownership percentage, revenue, profit or cash flow.
It simply lowers the per-share price and increases the share count by the same proportion.
Companies often split shares after a strong run to make the stock appear more accessible to retail investors and employees.
MarketWatch said the stock closed at $772.74 on July 1, its fifth straight gain, and was only 1.64% below its 52-week high of $785.66 reached on June 1.
Analysts are not treating the apparent 75% fall as a fundamental event because it is not one. The more important debate is whether CrowdStrike stock can keep growing fast enough to justify a rich valuation.
The bull case remains strong with Wells Fargo’s Michael Turrin raising his price target on CrowdStrike from $500 to $900 while maintaining a Buy rating.
The analyst cited checks that showed enterprise customers were still prioritising platform-based security spending.
The broader analyst backdrop is also constructive.
As per FactSet data, estimates from 47 analysts put CrowdStrike’s average 12-month target at $720.93 before the split adjustment, with forecasts ranging from $413 to $825.
It also showed a Buy consensus across 53 covering analysts, with 41 Buy ratings, 12 Holds and no Sells.
There is still a cautious camp as Bernstein’s Peter Weed kept a Market Perform rating and raised his target to $413 from $368.
The concern is valuation, not the split as TradingKey also noted worries that annual recurring revenue growth could slow below 25% and said the stock was trading at about 137 times forward earnings.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Ares Capital Corporation ("Ares Capital") (NASDAQ: ARCC) announced today that it will report earnings for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026 on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 prior to the opening of the Nasdaq Global Select Market. Ares Capital invites all interested persons to attend its webcast/conference call at 12:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on the same day to discuss its second quarter ended June 30, 2026 financial results.
All interested parties are invited to participate via telephone or the live webcast, which will be hosted on a webcast link located on the Home page of the Investor Resources section of our website at www.arescapitalcorp.com. Please visit the website to test your connection before the webcast. Domestic callers can access the conference call toll free by dialing +1 (800) 245-3047. International callers can access the conference call by dialing +1 (203) 518-9765. All callers are asked to dial in 10-15 minutes prior to the call so that name and company information can be collected and to reference the conference ID ARCCQ226. For interested parties, an archived replay of the call will be available approximately one hour after the end of the call through August 29, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) to domestic callers by dialing toll free +1 (800) 839-3736 and to international callers by dialing +1 (402) 220-2978. An archived replay will also be available through August 29, 2026 on a webcast link located on the Home page of the Investor Resources section of Ares Capital's website.
ABOUT ARES CAPITAL CORPORATION
Founded in 2004, Ares Capital is a leading specialty finance company focused on providing direct loans and other investments in private middle market companies in the United States. Ares Capital's objective is to source and invest in high-quality borrowers that need capital to achieve their business goals, which often leads to economic growth and employment. Ares Capital believes its loans and other investments in these companies can generate attractive levels of current income and potential capital appreciation for investors. Ares Capital, through its investment manager, utilizes its extensive, direct origination capabilities and incumbent borrower relationships to source and underwrite predominantly senior secured loans but also subordinated debt and equity investments. Ares Capital has elected to be regulated as a business development company ("BDC") and was the largest publicly traded BDC by market capitalization as of June 30, 2026. Ares Capital is externally managed by a subsidiary of Ares Management Corporation (NYSE: ARES), a publicly traded, leading global alternative investment manager. For more information about Ares Capital, visit www.arescapitalcorp.com.
CONTACT
Ares Capital Corporation
Carl G. Drake or John Stilmar
(888) 818-5298
[email protected]
Replacing a $70,000 salary with dividend income comes down to one variable: yield. At a 3% blended yield you need roughly $2.33 million invested. At a 10% blended yield, you need roughly $700,000.
Same paycheck, very different portfolios, very different risk profiles. Here is how the math breaks at three tiers, using real stocks with verified current yields.
Conservative Tier: 3% Yield, $2.33 Million Required This is the sleep-at-night book: Dividend Kings with multi-decade growth streaks, low betas, and earnings power that funds the next raise. The cost is capital intensity. Replacing $70,000 at roughly 3% requires about $2.33 million.
The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:KO | KO Price Prediction) yields 3% on a 53-cent quarterly payout, with a beta of 0.354. Q1 2026 revenue grew 12% and management raised FY2026 comparable EPS growth guidance to 8% to 9%. Johnson & Johnson (NYSE:JNJ) yields 2% after a 3% increase to $1.34 per share quarterly, extending a 60-plus-year dividend growth streak. JNJ’s beta is 0.256. Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG) yields 3%, with a 62% payout ratio and 31% return on equity. The latest quarterly dividend stepped up to $1.0885, the 70th consecutive annual increase per the company. Blend the three and the effective yield lands near 2.5%, pushing capital needs above $2.5 million. Stretch to a true 3% mix and the math holds at $2.33 million. Five-year total returns for this group span 77% for KO, 81% for JNJ, and 25% for PG. Lower yields, but the dividend grows and the share count compounds.
Moderate Tier: 5% to 7% Yield, Around $1 Million Required Mature payers with elevated payout ratios. Capital required drops by more than half versus the conservative tier.
Act now: the analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and Johnson & Johnson didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
Altria Group (NYSE:MO) yields 6% on a $1.06 quarterly dividend. Q1 2026 adjusted EPS came in at $1.32 and the company paid $1.8 billion in dividends in the quarter. The stock has returned 129% over five years. Main Street Capital (NYSE:MAIN) pays a 26-cent monthly base plus quarterly supplementals of 30 cents, the 19th consecutive quarterly supplemental. Headline yield on regulars is 6%, and non-accruals sit at 1% of fair value. At 7%, $70,000 in income runs $1,000,000 in capital. Dividend growth slows here, and tobacco volume declines plus BDC NAV sensitivity introduce headwinds the conservative tier does not carry.
Aggressive Tier: 10%+ Yield, $700,000 Required Ares Capital (NASDAQ:ARCC) is the benchmark. Yield is 11% on a quarterly dividend held at 48 cents for eight consecutive quarters. NAV per share is $19.59, non-accruals are 2%, and Q1 2026 total investment income was $763 million. The dividend has not been cut. That said, ARCC trades below book value at 0.929x, and quarterly earnings growth was down 64% year over year. A hypothetical 25% dividend reduction in a credit downturn would take the $0.48 quarterly to $0.36 and gross income on a $700,000 stake from $70,000 to roughly $52,500.
At 10% yield, the capital requirement is $700,000. The five-year total return of 52% trails every name in the conservative tier on price appreciation.
The Insight Most Readers Miss A 3% yielder growing the dividend 8% annually doubles its payout in roughly nine years. Start with $70,000 from a $2.33 million KO/JNJ/PG book and the income trajectory points toward $140,000 inside a decade with no new capital. A 10% yielder with a flat dividend, like ARCC at $0.48 for 8 consecutive quarters, delivers $70,000 every year and exactly $70,000 in year ten. Inflation does the rest of the work. The risk-free 10-year Treasury at 4% frames the aggressive yield premium as compensation for credit and NAV risk.
What to Do Pull the live yield on every name before sizing. The five-year gain/loss (KO up 51% vs. ARCC down nearly 7%) only matters if entry yield is current. Model a hypothetical 25% cut on the aggressive tier and confirm the reduced monthly income still covers fixed expenses. If retirement is inside five years, weight the conservative book heavier and let the moderate tier carry the yield uplift, rather than depending on a single 10%-plus payer. Act now: the analyst who called NVIDIA in 2010 just named his top 10 AI stocks — and Johnson & Johnson didn't make the cut. Grab the names FREE today.
LI faces headwinds from domestic competition and nascent global sales in H2'26, with FY2025/FY2026 likely to be trough years before potentially recovering from FY2027 onwards. This is worsened by the aggressive discounting and the consequently impacted top/bottom lines, albeit with the ongoing cash burn mitigated by the rich balance sheet. LI's refreshed L series at higher ASPs already report robust order books, with it offering a promising potential for H2'26 recovery, pending further capacity ramp-up.
SummaryCompaniesLawyers say public-interest powers can be used to extract commitmentsPlurality concerns appear weak but could delay deal, they sayPossible remedies include commitments on news, children's TVLONDON, July 2 (Reuters) - Britain's threat to intervene in the $110 billion Paramount-Warner deal could be less about blocking the transaction than extracting commitments on UK news, children's TV and investment, with the cost of any delay increasing the government's leverage.
Culture minister Lisa Nandy said on Tuesday she was leaning towards intervening in Paramount Skydance Corp's (PSKY.O), opens new tab proposed takeover of Warner Bros Discovery (WBD.O), opens new tab on public-interest grounds centred on a possible reduction in media plurality.
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Lawyers and media advisers said the public-interest case for intervention appeared limited. But the prospect of a review could encourage Paramount to offer voluntary commitments rather than risk delaying the deal and increasing costs.
Possible concessions could include commitments to preserve independent news provision and UK children's programming, as well as pledges to maintain or expand Warner's British production footprint, including Leavesden studios.
The deal has already been approved in a string of countries, with Kuwait, Austria and Australia the latest to give it the green light.
The U.S. Department of Justice has cleared the deal, but California, New York and other U.S. states are preparing a lawsuit to block it, sources have told Reuters.
Paramount has offered remedies to the European Commission ahead of its decision deadline of July 7.
COST OF DELAYNandy said she was concerned the merger could reduce the range of voices available to British audiences, particularly in children's programming, news and streaming.
Paramount has agreed to pay Warner shareholders an additional 25 cents a share "ticking fee" for every quarter the deal remains unfinished after September 30, a provision that would cost it about $650 million in cash every three months.
That gives the government leverage because even a relatively limited public-interest review could delay completion and increase Paramount's costs.
Claire Enders, founder and chief executive of Enders Analysis, said the move had come as a surprise given that the grounds for intervention appeared relatively weak.
But she said Nandy, an ally of Andy Burnham, who is set to become Britain's next prime minister this month, appeared to be using the prospect of delay to secure commitments.
"Substance is never that important," she said. "What really matters is making big promises, way in advance of events. And this intervention seems to be structured in order to attain that."
BRINKMANSHIP AND BLUFFBritain's Competition and Markets Authority is already examining the deal under standard competition metrics such as market share. It will either clear it or refer it for a more detailed investigation by August 7.
Luke Stillman, a managing director at advisory firm Madison and Wall, said the competition and public-interest processes were separate.
"One is very quantitative, while the new inquiry would be on softer, more open to interpretation, grounds," he said.
Competition lawyer Ronan Scanlan, a partner at Steptoe, said Nandy's move, likely coordinated with Burnham, could signal a desire to appear tougher on global deals with a UK dimension.
He said there was an element of brinkmanship and bluff.
"Ultimately this is likely sabre rattling with a view to setting down a marker going forward for global deals and extracting some concessions, in this case around children's and general programming in the UK," he said.
Paramount owns Britain's Channel 5 free-to-air broadcaster, while Warner owns CNN International.
In news, a simple concession could be a commitment to retain independent news producer ITN as Channel 5's provider rather than switching to CNN.
In children's TV, the deal combines Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network. Paramount could offer to maintain UK children's programming commitments.
Warner also owns major film and TV production facilities in Britain, including Leavesden studios, where "Barbie" and the Harry Potter movies were made. A commitment to retain or expand those operations could help address government concerns.
The companies have until July 6 to respond to Nandy.
"I suspect that this one-week turnaround is to basically punch them hard and see whether they cough up," Enders said.
POLITICAL FLUXMark Kelly, chief executive of MKI Global Partners, said the merger was unfolding during a period of political flux in Britain, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer expected to be replaced by the more left-leaning Burnham on July 20.
Standing up to a major media company was likely to serve Nandy well politically, he said. She has already met Paramount boss David Ellison earlier this year to discuss the deal.
"One might presume that if Paramount were to approach her with the right stance over the summer, giving her sufficient ammunition to claim she has extracted concessions, (...) this can still be resolved reasonably quickly," he said.
Whether or not the plurality concerns ultimately justify intervention, the case illustrates how governments can use public-interest powers to shape the terms of global mergers rather than simply block them.
Reporting by Paul Sandle, Additional reporting by Muvija M and Annousha Sakoui. Editing by Kate Holton and Mark Potter
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab
AI agents will soon have the ability to match the capabilities of human traders, Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev predicts.
The power of agentic technology — AI that can carry out tasks for users — has been touted as potentially transformational by many in the tech sector, with industry giants including OpenAI and Anthropic racing to develop such products.
Robinhood unveiled tools in May that allow AI agents to trade stocks and make purchases on users' behalf.
"The idea behind agentic trading…[is] every capability a human can do will be available to an AI agent," Tenev told CNBC's Karen Tso on Thursday.
"I was doing programmatic trading as an institutional player before starting Robinhood, and what you don't realize is a large portion of trades are already automated and AI powered."
"But that type of intelligence and complexity has been out of reach from everyday people," he added.
"The end state of agentic trading at Robinhood is to give the everyday person access to the same tools, the same computation, the same power that institutional investors in high-frequency trading firms have been enjoying for several decades."
On Wednesday, Robinhood said it would launch crypto trading in the U.K. as it expanded its offering in Europe.
Shares of Robinhood were up around 2% in Thursday premarket trading after an 8% pop on Wednesday, taking the group's market cap $98 billion at close. Shares are down around 5% in 2026.
Robinhood stock
In April, Robinhood missed expectations for first-quarter profit as crypto-driven market volatility weighed on trading activity. Market conditions have since improved, with easing Middle East tensions and strong equity markets supporting retail trading activity.
That same month, Robinhood announced it would act as a broker and trustee for the yet-to-be-released Trump Accounts, in partnership with U.S. Treasury and BNY Mellon.
"The goal is to make this the best consumer product that the government's ever been associated with," said Tenev.
Robinhood serves nearly 28 million customers across 38 countries and three continents, the company said in a statement.
Earlier this month, Robinhood cut 10% of its workforce as it looked to operate more efficiently.
"Robinhood's business has never been stronger," Tenev said in a note to employees shared on social media platform X.
"We cannot default to operating as a heavily-layered organization. We must be a lean, hyper-focused team," he added.
Rocket Lab (RKLB 1.43%) stock has posted big valuation gains over the last year, rising roughly 178% as of this writing. The gains have been propelled by strong sales growth, new and expanded partnerships, and general interest surrounding space stocks.
But the stock has seen a substantial pullback from its lifetime valuation high reached this May and currently trades down roughly 34.5% from its peak. Despite the valuation contraction, the company still has a market capitalization of roughly $56.7 billion and is valued at approximately 62 times this year's expected sales.
With Rocket Lab's big expansion opportunities and high-risk valuation profile in mind, where will the company be 10 years from now?
Image source: Getty Images.
Does Rocket Lab have what it takes to keep winning big? When it comes to charting the outlooks for companies operating at the frontiers of transformative new technologies and services, there's inevitably a lot of speculation. Rocket Lab has a strong position in the rocket-launching services space, trailing only Space Exploration Technologies (SpaceX), but there's a lot of guesswork when it comes to forecasting how the category will unfold over the long term.
On the other hand, Rocket Lab's strengths in launch technologies and services look promising -- and the company has been making some smart moves to capitalize on them. The space tech specialist recently announced it is purchasing telecom company Iridium Communications in an $8 billion deal that should significantly expand the business and dramatically improve its financial picture.
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The move will move Rocket Lab into more direct competition with SpaceX's Starlink business, but that actually looks like a smart move. With Rocket Lab already offering strong rocket launch services, it makes sense to move more directly into satellite and communications businesses to capitalize on substantial cost synergies.
So while Rocket Lab stock remains very risky, I think it offers potentially massive upside for investors willing to hold it over a decade.
Keith Noonan has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Rocket Lab. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
SummaryOneMain Holdings remains resilient amid macro volatility, delivering 2.5% returns since the last coverage and justifying my reiterated buy rating.OMF's risk is mitigated by 55% of personal loans being secured, a $2.8B loan loss allowance, and fixed-rate lending, supporting credit quality.My updated Dividend Discount Model yields a target price of $88.79; with a 20% margin of safety, my buy zone is up to $71.04.OMF offers an attractive ~7% dividend yield, with yields remaining compelling even if the stock appreciates to my conservative target. Kamonchanok Jaikaew/iStock via Getty Images
Two and a half months after my previous coverage, OneMain Holdings, Inc. (OMF) remained resilient. Recent events like the Middle East War and inflation reacceleration did not erode its value. It even delivered 2.5% returns
911 Followers
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of OMF either through stock ownership, options, or other derivatives. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
, /PRNewswire/ -- Yiren Digital Ltd. (NYSE: YRD) ("Yiren Digital" or the "Company"), a leading fintech company specializing in digital consumer lending, insurance and financial technology innovation across China and global markets, today announced that its board of directors has authorized a new share repurchase program, under which the Company may repurchase up to 10% of total issued and outstanding Ordinary Shares and/or American depositary shares ("ADSs") for up to US$20 million over the next 12 months, effective as of the date hereof.
The Company's proposed repurchases may be made from time to time in the open market at prevailing market prices, in privately negotiated transactions, in block trades and/or through other legally permissible means, including through Rule 10b5-1 trading plans, depending on market conditions and in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. The timing and amount of repurchases, if any, will be subject to market conditions, trading price, trading volume and other factors. The Company's board of directors will review the share repurchase program periodically and may authorize adjustments to its terms and size. The Company expects to fund the repurchases from its existing cash balance.
About Yiren Digital
Yiren Digital Ltd. is a leading fintech company specializing in digital consumer lending, insurance, and financial technology innovation across China and global markets. The Company leverages advanced artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to enhance customer experience, optimize capital efficiency, and expand financial inclusion. Following the regulatory filing of its in-house developed Large Language Model Zhiyu, and the significant enhancement of its MagiCube Agent platform, Yiren Digital is establishing a new growth engine to accelerate its evolution into an AI-native, multi-industry operating platform extending beyond traditional financial services. For more information, please visit https://ir.yiren.com.
Safe Harbor Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "aim," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "hope," "going forward," "intend," "ought to," "plan," "project," "potential," "seek," "may," "might," "can," "could," "will," "would," "shall," "should," "is likely to" and the negative form of these words and other similar expressions. This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "target," "confident," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations, assumptions, and assessments of current market and operating conditions. These statements involve inherent risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are outside the control of the Company, and which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements due to a variety of factors and other risks described in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company undertakes no, and expressly disclaims any, obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required under applicable law.
The logo of medical implants maker Zimmer Biomet is seen at a plant in Winterthur, Switzerland, November 16, 2018. Picture taken November 16, 2018. REUTERS/Moritz Hager/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab
CompaniesBENGALURU/HYDERABAD, July 2 (Reuters) - - Medical device maker Zimmer Biomet (ZBH.N), opens new tab plans to hire 500 employees over the next three years for its newly opened technology centre in Bengaluru, a senior executive said, as the U.S.-listed company expands its presence in India.
The hires will span software engineering, product design, research and development, and functions such as quality, regulatory and finance, Jehanzeb Noor, chief strategy, business development, innovation and transformation officer, said on Wednesday.
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About two-thirds of the hires will be in technology roles, with the remainder in support functions, Noor said, adding that the company was not constrained on hiring and could significantly expand headcount to thousands in the future.
The expansion comes as India strengthens its position as a hub for global capability centres. Healthcare companies including Novo Nordisk (NOVOb.CO), opens new tab, AstraZeneca (AZN.L), opens new tab and Eli Lilly (LLY.N), opens new tab use their India centres for research and development, clinical data analysis, regulatory work and technology.
GCC consultant ANSR estimates revenue from India's global capability centres will rise 12% to $84 billion in the financial year ending 2026, the firm told Reuters.
Zimmer Biomet, whose key markets include the United States, Europe and Japan, makes orthopedic implants for knee, hip and shoulder replacements, as well as surgical and robotic devices for musculoskeletal conditions.
"We want to make sure that we have a centre that has all the appropriate functions running together so we can drive innovation and bring that back to our surgeons, care teams and patients," Chief Information and Technology Officer Shaun Braun said.
The company said the centre would focus heavily on artificial intelligence, with applications spanning robotics, surgical planning and research and development, as it looks to expand the use of AI in its products and speed up development.
Reporting by Sai Ishwarbharath B in Bengaluru and Rishika Sadam in Hyderabad; Editing by Nivedita Bhattacharjee
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab
Rishika leads Reuters’ coverage of India’s pharmaceutical and healthcare sector. Her reporting focuses on key themes such as the emergence of weight-loss drugs, the country’s drug regulatory framework and manufacturing quality standards, and developments shaping India’s pharmaceutical exports to major markets including the United States and Europe. She also covers the country’s rapidly growing hospital industry. With nearly a decade of experience in journalism, Rishika has previously reported extensively on Indian politics, national elections, and on social affairs and criminal justice.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren is asking Eric Trump to confirm whether his family will resume legal action against Capital One over allegations it de-banked family-linked accounts, The Post has learned.
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Akamai Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: AKAM), the cybersecurity and cloud computing company that powers business online, announced today that the company will hold a conference call for investors on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. ET. The call will include the company’s second quarter 2026 financial results and may include forward-looking financial guidance from management. The call will also be broadcast live via the internet at Akamai’s Investor Relations page.
The live dial-in information for the conference call is:
U.S. only: (833) 634-5020International: (412) 902-4238Password: Akamai Technologies call
In addition, a replay of the call will be available for two weeks following the conference by calling (855) 669-9658 (or (412) 317-0088 for international calls) and using Conference ID: 8525174. The archived webcast of this event may be accessed through the Akamai website.
About Akamai
Akamai is the cybersecurity and cloud computing company that powers and protects business online. Our market-leading security solutions, superior threat intelligence, and global operations team provide defense-in-depth to safeguard enterprise data and applications everywhere. Akamai's full-stack cloud computing solutions deliver performance and affordability on the world's most distributed platform. Global enterprises trust Akamai to provide the industry-leading reliability, scale, and expertise they need to grow their business with confidence. Learn more at akamai.com and akamai.com/blog, or follow Akamai Technologies on X and LinkedIn.
July 02, 2026 06:00 ET | Source: The Ensign Group, Inc.
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif., July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Ensign Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: ENSG), the parent company of the Ensign™ group of companies, which invest in and provide skilled nursing and senior living services, physical, occupational and speech therapies, other rehabilitative and healthcare services, and real estate, announced today that it acquired the real estate and operations of (i) “Las Ventanas de Socorro”, a 126-bed skilled nursing facility located in Socorro, Texas, and (ii) “Los Arcos del Norte Care Center”, a 124-bed skilled nursing facility located in El Paso, Texas. The real estate was acquired by subsidiaries of Standard Bearer Healthcare REIT, Inc., Ensign’s captive real estate company, and the facilities are operated by Ensign-affiliated tenants. The acquisition was effective as of July 1, 2026.
“We are excited to continue our incredible year in Texas with the acquisition of these excellent facilities”, said Barry Port, Ensign's Chief Executive Officer. “We are always looking to expand our presence in Texas, and these facilities are tremendous adds to our operations and Standard Bearer’s real estate footprint”, he added.
Andy Ashton, President of Keystone Care LLC, Ensign’s Texas-based subsidiary, added, “Both facilities have fantastic teams of caregivers, and we are so excited to begin serving our residents and their families in the El Paso area.”
These acquisitions were effective July 1, 2026, and bring Ensign's growing portfolio to 398 healthcare operations, which includes 48 senior living operations, across 17 states. Ensign subsidiaries, including Standard Bearer, own 183 real estate assets. Mr. Port reaffirmed that Ensign is actively seeking opportunities to acquire real estate and to lease both well-performing and struggling skilled nursing, senior living and other healthcare related businesses throughout the United States.
About Ensign™
The Ensign Group, Inc.'s independent operating subsidiaries provide a broad spectrum of skilled nursing and senior living services, physical, occupational and speech therapies and other rehabilitative and healthcare services at 398 healthcare facilities in Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin. More information about Ensign is available at http://www.ensigngroup.net.
MILWAUKEE, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ademi LLP is investigating Huntsman (NYSE: HUN) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its recently announced transaction with Olin.
Click here to learn how to join our investigation and obtain additional information or contact us at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you.
Huntsman shareholders will receive 0.5476 shares in Olin for every one (1) share of Huntsman. Upon completion of the transaction, Olin shareholders will own approximately 54.5% and Huntsman shareholders will own approximately 45.5% of the combined company.
Huntsman insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements.
The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing transactions for Huntsman by imposing a significant penalty if Huntsman accepts a competing bid. We are investigating the conduct of the Huntsman board of directors, and whether they are fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders.
We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
SILVER SPRING, Md. & RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--United Therapeutics Corporation (Nasdaq: UTHR) announced today it has acquired Thymmune Therapeutics, Inc. (Thymmune), a privately held, preclinical stage biotechnology company developing scalable, regenerative thymic cell therapies for the potential treatment of post-transplant organ tolerance, immunodeficiencies, and autoimmune diseases.
The thymus is a critical organ for the development and proper function of key parts of the immune system, including training T-cells, which are essential for fighting infections and other diseases. Thymmune has a proprietary process for converting human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) into thymic cells, which — once inside the body — mature into cell types that can restore healthy T-cell function.
Thymmune’s lead candidate, THY-100, is in preclinical development for congenital athymia, an ultra-rare and life-threatening condition in which infants are born without a functional thymus. Animal studies have shown that treatment with THY-100 results in the in vivo formation of a neo-thymus that is capable of facilitating T-cell development. The clinical proof of concept and further development of THY-100 has the potential to broaden thymic regenerative medicine approaches for transplant tolerance, serious immune-mediated diseases, and enhanced longevity for older adults with diminished T-cell function.
“Thymmune’s platform complements United Therapeutics’ broader mission to expand the supply of transplantable organs, building on our UThymoKidney™ clinical development program and our growing strength in immunomodulatory therapeutics,” said Martine Rothblatt, Ph.D., Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of United Therapeutics. “By restoring or modulating T-cell receptor diversity, Thymmune’s technology could make fundamental contributions to human health care and potentially resolve the root causes of dozens of life-threatening diseases.”
“Thymmune was founded to harness the biology of the thymus to restore immune function for patients with serious immune-mediated diseases,” said Stan Wang, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Thymmune Therapeutics. “United Therapeutics shares our conviction that regenerative medicine can transform the lives of patients, and we believe its leadership in organ alternatives and cell-based technologies makes it the ideal partner to advance our platform toward broad clinical impact.”
Under the terms of the agreement, United Therapeutics acquired Thymmune for $140 million in cash, subject to certain post-closing adjustments, plus potential earn-out payments to former Thymmune equityholders of up to $160 million based upon the achievement of certain clinical and regulatory milestones by the end of 2031.
About United Therapeutics
Founded by CEO Martine Rothblatt to discover a cure for her daughter's life-threatening rare disease, pulmonary arterial hypertension, United Therapeutics transforms the treatment of rare diseases and pioneers alternatives to expand the supply of transplantable organs. From our innovative therapies to our groundbreaking manufactured organs, we are bold and unconventional. We move quickly from scientific theory to practical technologies that can save lives. As a public benefit corporation, even our legal structure reflects our commitments. We serve patients, act with integrity, create long-term shareholder value, and operate with sustainable practices that protect the future we are working to build. Visit us at www.unither.com and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements included in this press release that are not historical in nature are “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, among others, statements regarding our plans to develop THY-100 and other products based on Thymmune’s technology, including the potential to broaden thymic regenerative medicine approaches for transplant tolerance, serious immune-mediated diseases, and enhanced longevity for older adults with diminished T-cell function, the potential for Thymmune’s technology to support our organ manufacturing programs, the potential for Thymmune’s technology to make fundamental contributions to human health care and potentially resolve the root causes of dozens of life-threatening diseases, the potential earn-out payments to the former Thymmune stockholders, our goals of expanding the supply of transplantable organs, developing practical technologies that can save lives, creating long-term shareholder value, and operating with sustainable practices. These forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, such as those described in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results. Consequently, such forward-looking statements are qualified by the cautionary statements, cautionary language, and risk factors set forth in our periodic reports and documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and Current Reports on Form 8-K. We claim the protection of the safe harbor contained in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 for forward-looking statements. We are providing this information as of July 2, 2026, and assume no obligation to update or revise the information contained in this press release whether because of new information, future events, or any other reason.
UTHYMOKIDNEY is a trademark of United Therapeutics Corporation.
Shares of Alnylam Pharmaceuticals (ALNY +0.44%) have dropped 24% so far this year (through June 30). The biotech company is still a darling of Wall Street analysts, with 14 of 29 analysts following it listing the stock as a buy and seven listing it as a strong buy as I write this. The average price target is $436, about 45% above the June 30 closing price.
Since 2018, the company has brought to market six RNA interference (RNAi) therapeutics, genetic medicines that use RNA interference to inhibit specific disease-associated genes. Here's why things are looking good for the stock, and one note of caution.
Image source: Getty Images.
Alnylam is showing explosive revenue growth In the first quarter, product revenue surged 121% year over year to $1.04 billion, fueled primarily by Alnylam's transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR) franchise, which grew 153% to $910 million. The driver for that growth was Amvuttra, an injectable therapy used to treat polyneuropathy (damage of multiple nerves throughout the body) in adults with hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis (hATTR).
Alnylam reported a huge jump in profitability, with earnings per share (EPS) of $1.51, compared to a loss per share of $0.14 in the same period a year ago.
The company's full-year 2026 guidance calls for combined net product revenue of between $4.9 billion and $5.3 billion, up 71% year over year at the midpoint. Alnylam is rapidly transitioning from a high-burn clinical biotech into a highly profitable, self-sustaining commercial powerhouse.
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Its products are expanding into new indications While Alnylam has done well in treating rare orphan diseases, its pipeline is on the cusp of penetrating mainstream, high-volume therapeutic markets. New data reinforces Amvuttra's profile as a robust, first-line treatment for cardiomyopathy, setting up a massive commercial launch. Cardiomyopathy affects 0.2% of the U.S. population, and in 40% of cases, leads to heart failure.
Partnering with Roche Holding (RHHBY 2.01%), Alnylam has also developed zilebesiran to treat hypertension, which impacts nearly half of the adults in the U.S.
Zilebesiran and nucresiran are in phase 3 trials -- the first to treat hypertension and the second to treat ATTR. Zilebesiran is unique in that it treats a common condition but in a different manner, as an RNAi therapeutic targeting liver-expressed angiotensinogen and requiring dosing only a few times a year. Nucresiran is in phase 3 trials both to treat hATTR with polyneuropathy, and to treat ATTR-CM.
Another therapy, cemdisiran, is licensed to Regeneron Pharmaceuticals. Among its phase 3 trials are one to treat the autoimmune disorder myasthenia gravis and another to treat the rare blood disease paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria.
Unlike traditional small molecules or biologics that face immediate patent cliffs, Alnylam's RNAi delivery platforms form a deep technological moat. And its RNAi approach allows it to quickly replicate success from one liver-targeted disease to another with highly predictable clinical translation.
It is aggressively maintaining this edge by deploying artificial intelligence (AI), notably via a strategic AI collaboration with private biotech company Inceptive Nucleics, to accelerate the discovery of next-generation RNAi structures.
A note of caution Even with its tumble this year, the stock is trading at 75 times trailing earnings. That's high for a biotech, particularly one that isn't consistently profitable. Much of the share price is already factoring in the continued commercial uptake of Amvuttra. However, aggressive pricing pressure from competitors such as Pfizer or BridgeBio Pharma could trigger a sharp drop in the price.
The experts are right In the long run, this is a solid stock, even though it trades at a relatively high valuation. The company is already profitable, is growing revenue and earnings, and has a few new therapies on the cusp of commercialization. It has a unique delivery system that will help it retain patent protection. And it is branching out beyond rare diseases into areas such as heart disease and high blood pressure, which have larger patient populations.
Going on company guidance, its forward price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio is just below 30, meaning the stock isn't that expensive given its potential.
MILWAUKEE, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ademi LLP is investigating Payoneer (NASDAQ: PAYO) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its recently announced transaction with Nuvei.
Click here to learn how to join our investigation and obtain additional information or contact us at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you.
Payoneer stockholders will receive $7.40 per share in cash, representing a total transaction equity value of approximately $2.75 billion. Payoneer insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements.
The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing transactions for Payoneer by imposing a significant penalty if Payoneer accepts a competing bid. We are investigating the conduct of the Payoneer board of directors, and whether they are fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders.
We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
MILWAUKEE, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ademi LLP is investigating Bio-Techne (NASDAQ: TECH) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its recently announced transaction with Merck.
Click here to learn how to join our investigation and obtain additional information or contact us at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you.
Bio-Techne shareholders will receive $73 per share in cash, representing a total enterprise value of approximately $11.3 billion. Bio-Techne insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements.
The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing transactions for Bio-Techne by imposing a significant penalty if Bio-Techne accepts a competing bid. We are investigating the conduct of the Bio-Techne board of directors, and whether they are fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders.
We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
BOSTON, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Catastrophe and Risk Solutions group at Verisk (Nasdaq: VRSK), a leading strategic data analytics and technology partner to the global insurance industry, estimates economic losses from the June 24, 2026 earthquakes in Venezuela will likely exceed USD 10 billion. Verisk notes a higher degree of uncertainty than usual in estimating the insured share of industry losses because of Venezuela's macroeconomic conditions, elevated inflation, low insurance penetration, and sanctions-related market complexities.
Earthquake Sequence and Impacts
On June 24, Venezuela was struck by a rare earthquake doublet near Yumare-Morón in Yaracuy state, approximately 100 miles west of Caracas. A magnitude 7.2 foreshock was followed just 39 seconds later by a magnitude 7.5 mainshock, making it the strongest earthquake to impact Venezuela since 1900. The shallow strike-slip rupture occurred along the San Sebastián fault system within the tectonically active boundary zone between the Caribbean and South American plates and was subsequently followed by more than 430 recorded aftershocks.
Damage was most severe in the Caracas metropolitan region and the coastal state of La Guaira, where an estimated 1,400 buildings were destroyed. Significant destruction was also reported across Aragua, Carabobo, and Yaracuy states. Communities including Puerto Cabello, Catia La Mar, Maiquetía, San Felipe, Los Teques, Petare, Valencia, and Baruta experienced severe shaking, according to U.S. Geological Survey intensity estimates.
Modeling Information
Because of Venezuela's economic environment, Verisk notes greater uncertainty than is typical for an industry loss estimate. Factors contributing to this uncertainty include assumptions regarding earthquake insurance take-up rates, ongoing inflationary pressures, and the challenges associated with accurately valuing insured assets in a rapidly changing economic environment.
The modeled insured loss estimates do not include losses resulting from fire-following, landslides, sprinkler leakage, loss adjustment expenses, damage to uninsured properties or infrastructure, extra-contractual obligations, hazardous waste cleanup, vandalism, or civil commotion, whether directly or indirectly caused by the event. The estimates also exclude losses associated with civil engineering (railway) risks, marine cargo and marine hull risks, aviation risks, transit warehouse risks, personal accident risks, and other non-modeled sources of loss.
Building Stock and Earthquake Vulnerability
Today, the majority of residential buildings in Venezuela's urban areas are constructed of masonry, including reinforced masonry, confined masonry, and unreinforced masonry structures. Reinforced concrete is the predominant construction type in mid- and high-rise residential buildings, particularly in major urban centers such as Caracas.
Although modern engineering standards exist, seismic performance varies significantly due to local construction practices, material quality, and enforcement of building codes.
Insurance Market in Venezuela
Venezuela's insurance and reinsurance sector remains relatively small and highly concentrated compared to many global markets. The industry continues to operate under challenging macroeconomic conditions characterized by elevated inflation, currency depreciation, regulatory complexity, and limited market capacity.
These conditions create additional uncertainty when estimating insured losses following a catastrophe. Variations in earthquake insurance penetration, coverage levels, and insured property values can materially influence the ultimate insured share of economic losses resulting from the earthquake sequence.
About Verisk
Verisk (Nasdaq: VRSK) is a leading strategic data analytics and technology partner to the global insurance industry. It empowers clients to strengthen operating efficiency, improve underwriting and claims outcomes, combat fraud and make informed decisions about global risks, including climate change, catastrophic events, sustainability and political issues. Through advanced data analytics, software, scientific research and deep industry knowledge, Verisk helps build global resilience for individuals, communities and businesses.. With teams across more than 20 countries, Verisk consistently earns certification by Great Place to Work. For more, visit Verisk.com and the Verisk Newsroom.
CoStar Group (NASDAQ: CSGP), an S&P 500 company and the global leader in real estate marketplaces, information, analytics and 3D digital twin technology today
Here are five stocks added to the Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) List today:
Cummins Inc. (CMI - Free Report) : This power solutions company has seen the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increasing 12.6% over the last 60 days.
Analog Devices, Inc. (ADI - Free Report) : This integrated circuit company has seen the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increasing 11.6% over the last 60 days.
WidePoint Corporation (WYY - Free Report) : This technology management services company has seen the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increasing 25% over the last 60 days.
Concrete Pumping Holdings, Inc. (BBCP - Free Report) : This concrete pumping and waste management company has seen the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increasing 41.7% over the last 60 days.
Clear Secure, Inc. (YOU - Free Report) : This identity verification company has seen the Zacks Consensus Estimate for its current year earnings increasing 9.9% over the last 60 days.
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Even in what appears to be a frothy market environment, investors can find beaten-down stocks to analyze. For instance, shares in this apparel company recently traded at a gut-wrenching 78% off their record from December 2023 (as of June 29).
But it wasn't always this way. This consumer discretionary stock soared 321% in the five-year run leading up to that peak.
Here's one reason you might want to consider buying shares today.
Image source: Getty Images.
Lululemon Athletica (LULU +1.94%) has done a fantastic job losing the market's conviction. The stock has gotten so crushed that the valuation is hard to ignore now. Investors can buy shares at a forward price-to-earnings ratio of just 10.6, less than half the S&P 500 index's multiple.
Lululemon's growth has weakened dramatically. Revenue increased 4% in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026 (ended May 3), with sales in the critical U.S. market down 4%, likely due to a combination of competitive forces, disappointing product releases, and inflationary pressures.
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The rational perspective, after learning that the stock has lost three-fourths of its value, is that this is a dying business. That's not true.
Lululemon still reports robust profitability, with a gross margin of 54.2% last fiscal quarter. Its brand name, known for premium merchandise, is a key competitive advantage. And it possesses long-term growth potential, especially in China.
If you're a patient investor willing to hold for five years or longer, Lululemon deserves some attention.
Neil Patel has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Lululemon Athletica Inc. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
Matson (MATX) saw its shares surge in the last session with trading volume being higher than average. The latest trend in earnings estimate revisions may not translate into further price increase in the near term.
MILWAUKEE, July 02, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ademi LLP is investigating Nuvalent (NASDAQ: NUVL) for possible breaches of fiduciary duty and other violations of law in its recently announced transaction with GSK plc.
Click here to learn how to join our investigation and obtain additional information or contact us at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you.
Nuvalent stockholders will receive $124 per share and the aggregate equity value of the transaction is approximately $10.6 billion. Nuvalent insiders will receive substantial benefits as part of change of control arrangements.
The transaction agreement unreasonably limits competing transactions for Nuvalent by imposing a significant penalty if Nuvalent accepts a competing bid. We are investigating the conduct of the Nuvalent board of directors, and whether they are fulfilling their fiduciary duties to all shareholders.
We specialize in shareholder litigation involving buyouts, mergers, and individual shareholder rights. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
Key Takeaways MSM says restructuring is mostly complete as volume trends and sales execution begin to improve.Q3 sales rose 7.8% YoY to $1.047B, while adjusted EPS increased to $1.43 from $1.08.MSM guided Q4 average daily sales growth of 6.5%-8.5% and adjusted operating margin of 10.0%-10.8%. MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc. (MSM - Free Report) used its fiscal third-quarter earnings call to argue that its turnaround is moving past disruption and into execution. Management pointed to improving volume trends, firmer national account performance and better operating leverage as signs that recent structural changes are beginning to translate into cleaner results.
The central message was less about the quarter itself and more about what comes next. Executives said the company is now positioned to use a better industrial backdrop, tighter sales discipline and a leaner cost base to push toward stronger growth and a mid-teens operating margin over time.
MSM Puts New Metrics at the CenterPresident and CEO Martina McIsaac said MSC Industrial is now managing the business against a narrower set of targets: sales per rep per day, sales per total headcount, year-over-year volume improvement, adjusted operating margin expansion, adjusted incremental margin and return on invested capital. She framed those measures as the clearest way for investors to judge whether the turnaround is gaining traction.
McIsaac kept her tone measured. She said MSC Industrial is not yet producing breakout results, but described the quarter as a collection of smaller operational wins that indicate the company is heading in the right direction.
That matters because management is asking investors to focus less on one quarter’s headline numbers and more on whether productivity, volume and margin discipline are improving together.
MSC Industrial Says Sales Disruption Is EasingMcIsaac said the sales force optimization completed in December created noise in fiscal second quarter results, but that headwind is now largely behind the company. She cited improving average daily sales among affected customers and an inflection in national accounts as evidence that coverage and execution are stabilizing.
McIsaac also said sales per rep per day improved by the high teens year over year, even with 225 fewer field heads. That was presented as proof that MSC Industrial is generating more productivity from a smaller commercial footprint.
The remaining task, by management’s account, is to close the gap between customers least affected by the redesign and those still rebuilding relationships after rep changes or vacancies.
MSM Still Relies on Price but Wants More VolumeThird-quarter sales increased 7.8% year over year to $1.05 billion, beating the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.03 billion by 1.74%. Adjusted EPS rose to $1.43 from $1.08 a year earlier, surpassing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $1.28.
Interim CFO Greg Clark said price remained the main growth driver, contributing 720 basis points to sales growth, while volume added 50 basis points. Even so, management repeatedly stressed that volume improved through the quarter and turned positive across customer types.
McIsaac also made clear that MSC Industrial does not want the story to remain price-led. She told analysts the company would prefer to keep gross margin around the 40% to 41% range and use efficiency gains and pricing discipline to support competitiveness and volume growth.
MSC Industrial Pushes Productivity HarderClark said adjusted operating margin reached 10.6%, up from 9% a year ago, while adjusted operating expenses fell 150 basis points as a percentage of sales. He attributed the improvement to productivity and headcount actions, lower freight expense and reduced duplicate commission costs under the new sales structure.
McIsaac said the bigger internal benchmark remains headcount efficiency. She told analysts that MSC Industrial is still about 1,000 heads heavy relative to peer benchmarks at current revenue levels and said progress should be tracked through sales per head and absolute non-sales headcount.
That benchmark turned into one of the call’s most important themes because management tied future margin expansion to AI, automation and process redesign rather than to gross margin expansion alone.
MSM Sees Broader Signs of RecoveryManagement said industrial demand is improving, though still unevenly. McIsaac described the recovery as being around the third inning and pointed to changing summer shutdown patterns, especially in automotive, as one of the clearest behavioral signals that conditions are getting better.
Clark also highlighted stronger solutions activity. Vending machine installations rose 7% to about 30,800, in-plant programs increased 7% to 426, and average daily sales through vending and in-plant customers rose 15% and 16%, respectively.
In Q&A, management added that automotive turned positive in June and that vending and in-plant sales per unit were up high single digits, reinforcing the argument that volume is improving underneath the pricing tailwind.
MSC Industrial Keeps the Q4 Bar FirmFor the fiscal fourth quarter, MSC Industrial guided to average daily sales growth of 6.5% to 8.5% and an adjusted operating margin of 10% to 10.8%. Clark said the outlook assumes a normal 40 to 50 basis point sequential gross margin decline and mid-20s adjusted incremental margin.
A D.A. Davidson analyst asked how much of the guide depends on pricing versus volume. Ryan Mills, head of investor relations, said price should run in the 6.5% to 7% range in the fiscal fourth quarter, implying volume improvement at the midpoint despite tougher comparisons.
A Stephens analyst also challenged whether the outlook assumes too much momentum after a strong June. Mills responded that the midpoint implies only a modest step-up versus June and said the company feels confident in the current demand and execution backdrop.
MSM Leaves a Constructive but Measured SignalBy the end of the call, management’s posture was clear: the restructuring phase is mostly complete, and the next phase is proving that improved sales execution and lower structural cost can produce sustained volume and margin gains. McIsaac sounded confident, but she did not overreach on the pace of that payoff.
MSM currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy), with a Value Score of C, Growth Score of B, Momentum Score of C and VGM Score of B. The rank remains the primary signal, while A and B Style Scores are the more favorable combinations, especially with a Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) or #2. The current mix points to a constructive near-term profile, although the Zacks Rank can change as earnings estimate revisions shift after the quarter. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.
San Diego, California--(Newsfile Corp. - July 2, 2026) - Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that the FS KKR class action lawsuit - captioned Stuart v. FS KKR Capital Corp., No. 26-cv-02969 (E.D. Pa.) - seeks to represent purchasers or acquirers of FS KKR Capital Corp. (NYSE: FSK) securities and charges FS KKR as well as certain of FS KKR's top executives with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
If you suffered substantial losses and wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the FS KKR class action lawsuit, please provide your information here:
You can also contact attorneys Ken Dolitsky or Michael Albert of Robbins Geller by calling 800/851-7783 or via e-mail at [email protected]. Lead plaintiff motions for the FS KKR class action lawsuit must be filed with the court no later than this Monday, July 6, 2026.
CASE ALLEGATIONS: FS KKR is a business development company specializing in investments in debt securities.
The FS KKR class action lawsuit alleges that defendants throughout the Class Period made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) FS KKR overstated the effectiveness of its portfolio restructuring efforts for its nonaccrual companies; (ii) FS KKR overstated the valuation of its portfolio investments and/or overstated the effectiveness of FS KKR's portfolio valuation process; and (iii) FS KKR overstated the durability of its quarterly distribution strategy.
The FS KKR class action lawsuit further alleges that on August 6, 2025, FS KKR reported second quarter 2025 earnings, revealing that FS KKR's net asset value had declined to $21.93 per share, down $1.44, or 6.2% from the prior quarter, and the total fair value of investments fell $474 million, to $13,648 million. Moreover, FS KKR allegedly reported a loss per share of negative $0.75, down $1.18 or 274.4% from the prior quarter, and a total net realized and unrealized loss per share of negative $1.36, down $1.12 or 466.7% from the prior quarter. Further, investments on non-accrual status allegedly rose to 3.0% and 5.3% of the total investment portfolio at fair value and amortized cost, respectively, compared to 2.1% and 3.5% in the prior quarter. On this news, the price of FS KKR stock fell more than 8%, according to the complaint.
Then, on February 25, 2026, FS KKR announced fourth quarter and full year 2025 earnings, allegedly revealing net asset value had continued to decline to $20.89, down $1.10 or 5% from the prior quarter, and the total fair value of investments fell another $406 million, to $13,009 million. Moreover, FS KKR allegedly reported a loss per share of negative $0.41, down $1.17 or 153.9% from the prior quarter, and a total net realized and unrealized loss per share of negative $0.89, down $1.08 or 568.421% from the prior quarter. Further, investments on non-accrual status again rose to 3.4% and 5.5% of the total investment portfolio at fair value and amortized cost, respectively, compared to 2.9% and 5.0% in the prior quarter. FS KKR also allegedly "acknowledge[d] specific challenges" with additional companies and cut its dividend to $0.48 per share (previously $0.70). On the accompanying earnings call, FS KKR's Chief Investment Officer, was allegedly forced to acknowledge that its "recent underperformance reflects challenges in certain legacy investments" in addition to those previously discussed, including Medallia and Cubic Corp. Further, challenges ran much deeper, as FS KKR revealed issues with the identified companies only accounted for "50% of net realized and unrealized losses." On this news, the price of FS KKR stock fell more than 15%, according to the FS KKR class action lawsuit.
THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased or acquired FS KKR securities during the class period to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the FS KKR class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the FS KKR class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the FS KKR class action lawsuit. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff of the FS KKR class action lawsuit.
ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is one of the world's leading law firms representing investors in securities fraud and shareholder rights litigation. Our Firm ranked #1 on the most recent ISS Securities Class Action Services Top 50 Report, recovering more than $916 million for investors in 2025. This marks our fourth #1 ranking in the past five years. And in those five years alone, Robbins Geller recovered $8.4 billion for investors - $3.4 billion more than any other law firm. With 200 lawyers in 10 offices, Robbins Geller is one of the largest plaintiffs' firms in the world, and the Firm's attorneys have obtained many of the largest securities class action recoveries in history, including the largest ever - $7.2 billion - in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. Please visit the following page for more information:
Kontoor Brands is rated a buy due to an attractive post-Lee divestiture setup, with a clearer focus on Wrangler and Helly Hansen. Lee's sale for up to $1 billion provides KTB with significant financial flexibility for debt reduction and share repurchases. Wrangler delivers stable, cash-generating growth, while Helly Hansen offers higher-margin, premium outdoor/workwear expansion opportunities.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha's Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
IREN's Nasdaq-100 and Russell inclusion broadens institutional ownership as the investment case shifts from fundraising toward execution and revenue realization. Management revealed all operational AI capacity is fully contracted, while negotiations for 2027 deployments indicate execution has replaced demand as the bottleneck. Mirantis adds 650 engineers and over 1,500 enterprise relationships, strengthening IREN's vertically integrated AI cloud platform beyond infrastructure ownership alone.
Ademi LLP is investigating possible breach of fiduciary claims against Fiserv (NASDAQ: FISV). The investigation results from recent announcement, investigations and lawsuits against Fiserv.
Click here to join our investigation or to obtain additional information, or contact us at [email protected] or toll-free: 866-264-3995. There is no cost or obligation to you.
On June 15, 2026, Fiserv announced that its CEO and board member Michael P. Lyons was resigning effective immediately. The investigation focuses on whether the board of Fiserv has breached its fiduciary duties to shareholders.
We specialize in securities fraud and shareholder litigation. For more information, please feel free to call us. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.
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Paramount Skydance CEO David Ellison has leaned into technology since taking the helm. Ian Gavan/Getty Images for Paramount Pictures; Illustration by Cheng Xin/Getty Images Paramount Skydance has revamped another key tech team as CEO David Ellison's digital transformation takes shape.
Paramount's ad product and tech teams are joining forces, becoming the latest units to get a makeover. Earlier this year, Ellison combined streaming engineering groups and reassigned some staffers who'd helped merge the tech platforms of Paramount+ and free streamer Pluto TV.
Ad product and tech employees learned about the new structure and leaders in a late-June memo from Hugh Williams, a former Google tech exec who joined Paramount this spring as an EVP.
Merging the ad product and tech groups will help create "the modern, unified product and technology organization we set out to build," Williams said in the memo, which was obtained by Business Insider.
Ellison is set on modernizing Paramount, a 114-year-old Hollywood powerhouse that hasn't been known for its tech prowess. He's hoping to narrow the gap with Netflix, both by "prioritizing investments in advanced technology" and by buying Warner Bros. Discovery.
Paramount has made strides in streaming tech by adding a short-form video feed and plans to add interactive features, such as a shopping tool and sports stats. The company is also eyeing video podcasts to drive engagement.
Paramount's rearranged ad product and tech group has five parts, and each unit's leader will report directly to Williams, the EVP said.
Staffers on these teams should prepare for "movement between the groups soon to align with the new team structure," Williams added.
Todd Bender, currently Paramount's EVP of Advertising Platforms, will take on a new role as EVP of Integration, Williams said. Bender will support Williams and product chief Dane Glasgow "in complex integration planning work" with the changes, Williams said in the memo.
Here's a breakdown of Paramount ad product and tech's new structure and leadership team:Product Management (PM)Led by four executives:
Charlie Goodman: SVP, Decisioning & Ad Formats PMMatthew Jacobs: Senior Director, Reporting, Measurement, and Attribution PMGeorge Powell: VP, Ad Platforms & Systems PMMichele Stone: SVP, Revenue Enablement PMDescription: "Accountable for why we do work and what work we do, organized around the full 'pitch to pay' lifecycle of advertising across every screen. This spans how clients and our sales teams plan and transact with us; how we decide, deliver, operate, and shape the ad experience; the shared platforms and infrastructure the organization runs on; and how we measure outcomes and turn delivered value into revenue."EngineeringLed by Rich Orme: EVP, Engineering
Background: Orme joined Paramount in June after working in tech for close to three decades. He most recently started and ran AI advisory firm Leif Partners and previously worked at tech investment firm Silver Lake.Description: "Accountable for how and when we build software. Once the PM team decides what to build, Engineering owns the architecture, design, build, and delivery dates. Almost all of our engineers will report into this new organization."DataLed by TBD
Williams said that Paramount plans to hire an EVP of Data to head up its data science and analytics efforts.Description: "Accountable for how and when we build our data solutions, spanning analytics and data science. Analytics owns the insights, reporting, dashboards, experimentation, and ensuring our data is relevant, reliable, and reusable. They will answer the hard and interesting data questions about Ads. Data science owns the models and algorithms that power our products. Data partners closely with Engineering and is a key partner across Product Management."Advertising SolutionsLed by Dayna Wasilefski: VP, Advertising Solutions
Background: Wasilefski is a longtime Paramount executive stepping in for Paul Mahood, the ad sales product and tech SVP who's leaving the company at the end of July after more than two decades.Description: "Owns the significant vendor solutions that run our customer and linear businesses, including our CRM and all Salesforce instances, linear systems, and the technology behind local, sports, and our other non-streaming businesses. We will continue to deliver these with the availability and continuity the business depends on. This team owns the how and the when for customizing and operating those solutions."Field CTOLed by Travis Scoles: EVP, Field CTODescription: "A small, senior, client-facing team focused on direct relationships with our ad sales teams and advertisers. This team will build small, high-value custom solutions, representing our product and technology strategy to clients and partners, and feeding market intelligence back into the organization. Their work is deliberately one-off: anything that becomes durable is handed back to the broader organization to own and prioritize. The team will also represent Ads Product and Tech in client forums and evangelize Paramount as leaders in the Ads space."Paramount has a new-look leadership teamEllison's Paramount has had plenty of leadership changes this year.
Besides bringing on Williams, the company also landed former Google AI language product exec Barak Turovsky in May as its head of consumer AI. And in March, Paramount hired Danielle Carney from Amazon to oversee its US ad sales team.
Meanwhile, tech chief Phil Wiser left the company in late May. A few months earlier, agency partnerships EVP Chris Simon stepped down, and streaming product and tech chief Vibol Hou also left.
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A heavily hyped initial public offering (IPO). An impressive post-IPO pop. A subsequent pullback. Investors have seen this story play out before. And they're seeing it again with Space Exploration Technologies (SPCX 7.80%).
SpaceX delivered the biggest IPO in history. Its shares soared over the next few days following the IPO. Now, though, the stock is down roughly 22% below its peak. How long can SpaceX go? What comes next for the highly followed space technology company's shares? Here's what history suggests.
Image source: Getty Images.
The IPO stock playbook University of Florida finance professor Jay Ritter analyzed thousands of U.S. IPOs since 1980. He found that the average IPO stock jumped 19% on its first day of trading. Guess how big SpaceX's day one gain was? Pat yourself on the back if you answered 19%.
Whether or not an IPO stock soars initially, though, early pullbacks are also commonplace. That's especially the case for stocks that receive extensive media attention. For example, Tesla's (TSLA +1.20%) share price fell by more than 30% following its 2011 IPO. Meta Platforms (META +8.88%), then known as Facebook, lost more than half of its market cap in the first four months of trading.
Among the 15 largest U.S. IPOs since 2006, the average stock plunged around 50% below its IPO price at some point during the 12 months following the public listing. The average first-year returns for these stocks were roughly 33% losses.
But were long-term investors richly rewarded for being patient and waiting? Sometimes. Holding onto Tesla and Meta paid off tremendously for early investors. However, nine of the 15 largest U.S. IPO stocks have been losers for those who bought on the first day of trading. Rivian (RIVN 0.98%) is an especially instructive example, with its shares plunging more than 80% since the IPO.
Judging by the history of other major IPOs, the worst might not be over for SpaceX. Granted, the current rebound could continue for a while. However, SpaceX could decline by nearly 30% if it moves similarly to previous big IPO stocks.
One key tailwind for SpaceX, though, could be its upcoming inclusion in the Nasdaq-100 Index after the market close on July 6, 2026. All exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and mutual funds that track an index must own the index's underlying stocks.
On the other hand, SpaceX could also have a ticking time bomb on its hands. Following the company's second-quarter earnings report (likely in mid-August), 20% of eligible insider shares can be sold. This number will increase by 10% if the stock trades at least 30% higher than its IPO price during five of 10 consecutive trading days leading up to the Q2 update.
SpaceX also has other time-based IPO lockup period expirations. Insiders can sell up to 7% of shares at 70, 90, 105, 120, and 135 days following the IPO. After the Q3 earnings update, up to 28% more shares can be sold. Insider selling at high volumes would almost certainly create significant downward pressure on SpaceX's share price.
Math is more important than history. Mark Twain is often credited as saying, "History doesn't repeat itself, but it often rhymes." It's possible this adage could play out with SpaceX, with the stock plummeting as other high-profile IPO stocks have during their first year of trading.
However, SpaceX's market cap remains above $2.2 trillion. That's an astronomical valuation for a company that generated $18.7 billion in revenue last year. Sure, SpaceX is growing. But its growth isn't enough to justify the premium pricing at this point.
I think math is more important to SpaceX than history. Unfortunately, neither looks encouraging for investors considering buying the stock on the dip.
Space Exploration Technologies (SPCX 7.80%) delivered one of history's biggest stock market events just recently: the largest initial public offering ever. SpaceX, raising $75 billion in the operation, then saw its shares rise nearly 20% from the $135 offer price on its first day of trading. And the exercise of an overallotment option brought the total of funds raised to more than $85 billion.
Since that time -- the IPO was on June 12 -- all eyes have been on SpaceX stock. Investors may be intrigued by the offer itself, but also by the company's leader, Elon Musk, and his ambitious projects. Now, a new milestone lies right around the corner. SpaceX is set to join the Nasdaq-100, an index including the largest non-financial companies on the Nasdaq, on July 7.
Will SpaceX soar after that time? History offers a compellingly clear answer.
Image source: Getty Images.
An interesting mix of businesses First, let's consider why investors are so interested in SpaceX -- and this has to do with the company's interesting mix of growth businesses and its leadership. SpaceX is, as the name suggests, an expert in rocket launches. It aims to make launches cheaper and more efficient through its reusable technology -- and so far, it's made significant progress here. For example, NASA says that SpaceX's Falcon 9 back in 2010 reduced launch costs by a mind-boggling 85%. The goal now is to reduce costs by more than 99%, and a key step is just ahead: SpaceX aims to launch its fully reusable spacecraft, Starship, with payloads later this year.
SpaceX's second business is also closely linked to space: It's the satellite-based connectivity unit, Starlink, and is currently the company's biggest revenue driver. Last year, it brought in $11.4 billion on SpaceX's total of $18 billion. And Starlink membership, soaring from 2.3 million three years ago to more than 10 million today, offers us reason to be optimistic about growth.
Finally, SpaceX's third business is artificial intelligence (AI). Now, this might not seem space-related -- but it actually is. One of this unit's goals is to operate data centers in space, and the practical -- and cost-saving -- part of this is that SpaceX may use its own rockets to make this happen. And SpaceX also may use its rockets for the transport needs of Starlink.
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Elon Musk at the helm So SpaceX's businesses are diversified, yet they are complementary at the same time. And each may deliver a considerable amount of growth. Some investors also like the idea that Elon Musk is at the helm since he is known for being ambitious and innovative.
All of this is very positive, but it's also important to keep in mind that some of SpaceX's biggest goals involve technology that hasn't been fully developed or proven. And in order to develop that technology, SpaceX must invest billions of dollars. In fact, capital expenditures for its AI business last year reached $12 billion and helped push the company to a net loss. All of this represents risk. So even though SpaceX may be an exciting company, it's not the best investment for every investor, particularly at today's price.
At the current level, the stock trades at more than 100x sales, so it isn't cheap.
SPCX PS Ratio (Annual) data by YCharts
Entering the Nasdaq-100 Now, let's consider the upcoming Nasdaq-100 entry. This is due to the new "fast track" procedure that offers companies admission after only 15 trading days -- as long as they are among the 40 biggest in the index in terms of market value. SpaceX makes the cut and will join as of July 7. This means that funds tracking the Nasdaq-100 must add SpaceX shares, and this buying activity may lift the stock.
But this doesn't necessarily mean the stock will soar, as history shows us. A look at recent Nasdaq-100 additions -- added June 22 of this year -- didn't result in significant gains for those players.
ALAB data by YCharts
A look back farther in time, to 2024, when Palantir Technologies, Strategy, and Axon Enterprise joined the Nasdaq-100, shows all three actually declined in the 10 days to follow.
PLTR data by YCharts
So, while SpaceX could see a slight pop, as funds scoop up the shares, significant positive movement isn't guaranteed. What does this mean for you? In any case, short-term stock movements shouldn't be a concern. When investing, it's crucial to hold onto stocks for the long term, at least five years, to truly benefit from the company's growth. So, you shouldn't worry about buying SpaceX before a particular event, such as this Nasdaq-100 entry.
Instead, it's a better idea to take your time and consider the company's upcoming earnings reports before deciding whether to get in on this exciting but risky stock.
Apple plans to launch at least five new iPhone models between the second half of this year and the first half of 2027, while increasing production plans for foldable devices, as it looks to vie for a greater slice of the market amid an industrywide component supply shortage, Nikkei Asia reported Thursday.
The U.S. tech giant has instructed suppliers to prepare to produce about 10 million foldable iPhones this year, up from an earlier forecast of 7 million to 8 million units, the report said, citing people familiar with the matter.
Ahead of launching its first-ever foldable device, Apple has already secured components for about 80 million smartphones spread across new models for the second half of 2026, according to Nikkei Asia.
Apple's total smartphone production for 2026 is expected to exceed 220 million units, the report said. Its scale and purchasing power in sourcing memory and components remain significantly stronger than most of its peers, even as shortages driven by AI-related demand ripple through the industry.
This has allowed Apple to navigate supply shortages better than Chinese rivals such as Xiaomi, Oppo, and Vivo, which have each slashed their annual production targets to below 100 million units, Nikkei Asia reported.
"Compared with Apple's bargaining power, the Chinese smartphone makers are in a weak spot in terms of getting more supplies of memory chips or increasing the prices," an executive at a supplier for both Apple and Xiaomi told Nikkei Asia. "It gives Apple a good motivation to launch the iPhones in spring and take more of their share."
Apple's efforts to secure components come as a global memory shortage driven by demand from artificial intelligence data centers pushes up costs across the industry.
Bloomberg reported Thursday that Apple is in talks to source memory chips for devices sold in China from Chinese manufacturers ChangXin Memory Technologies and Yangtze Memory Technologies, both of which are included on a Pentagon list of companies alleged to support Beijing's military. Apple has not confirmed the discussions, and Bloomberg reported that negotiations remain ongoing.
Apple is reportedly seeking to broaden its supplier base as memory shortages strain production across the consumer electronics sector.
Apple plans to introduce at least two new iPhones in the first half of 2027, including the standard iPhone 18 and a new iPhone Air, according to Nikkei Asia.
The aggressive product roadmap comes after Apple implemented price hikes for its MacBook and iPad lineups last week as memory and storage costs surged.
Apple did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment.
Apple stock NASDAQ:AAPL remained in focus on Thursday after reports of an expanded iPhone launch cycle, setting up a familiar split screen for investors: a powerful company, but a stock that no longer looks cheap.
The catalyst was a Nikkei Asia report that Apple is preparing at least five new iPhone models across the second half of 2026 and the first half of 2027.
The timing matters because the plan lands just as an AI-led memory shortage is raising costs across the consumer electronics supply chain.
Apple is planning one of its most ambitious iPhone cycles in years.
Nikkei Asia reported that the company wants to launch at least five new models through early 2027, while also lifting its foldable iPhone production target to about 10 million units this year, up from an earlier forecast of 7 million to 8 million.
That would put Apple directly into a foldable market already contested by Samsung and Huawei.
For bulls, the timing could be powerful. Morgan Stanley analysts have said Apple has a path to more than 250 million iPhone shipments in FY27, helped by stronger upgrade rates and the first foldable iPhone.
Their bull case values the stock at $376 if foldables and AI drive stronger demand.
The bear case is that investors may be getting ahead of the market.
Jefferies recently downgraded Apple to Underperform, warning that expectations around upcoming iPhone models and the upgrade cycle had become unrealistic.
The bigger problem is not whether Apple can build excitement, but whether it can protect margins while doing so.
The AI data-centre boom has tightened the supply of DRAM and NAND chips, the same memory components used in phones, tablets and laptops.
As per JPMorgan data, memory could account for about 45% of iPhone production costs by 2027.
That leaves Apple with an awkward choice. It can absorb higher component costs and pressure margins, or pass more of those costs to consumers and risk slowing upgrades.
That tension was already visible in June, when Apple raised prices on Macs, iPads and other products because of memory costs.
The investor reaction was immediate as Apple stock fell 6.12% to $275.15 on June 25 after the price-hike news.
Wall Street is split between product-cycle optimism and valuation discipline.
KGI Securities downgraded Apple to Hold from Outperform with a $315 price target, signalling limited upside after the stock’s strong run.
Others remain more constructive. TD Cowen raised its Apple target to $350 from $335 and kept a Buy rating.
Maxim Group also raised its target to $350 from $310, with analyst Tom Forte saying Apple’s WWDC presentation showed “meaningful improvements” in its AI efforts and could support both services and hardware sales.
U.S. social media giant Meta Platforms has defended the rollout of usernames on its messaging platform, after the Indian government on Wednesday said the move could lead to a rise in cybercrime.
"Users still require a phone number to use WhatsApp, and we've built multiple layers of defense against scams into usernames," a Meta spokesperson told CNBC in an email.
The tech company said it will limit the number of new people an account can contact, block repeated attempts to guess usernames, and enable systems to detect and remove activity demonstrating common patterns associated with impersonation or abuse.
It added that the username feature is not live and will be rolled out "slowly later this year." On Monday, WhatsApp introduced usernames, claiming it to be a "major privacy feature" designed to help people stay connected without giving away phone numbers.
According to a report by Indian news agency ANI, the Indian government said that the username feature "may materially increase the incidence of online fraud, phishing, digital arrest scams and impersonation attacks, by enabling bad actors to solicit and message victims."
It has given WhatsApp three days to furnish a detailed explanation on the feature or face action under the country's information technology regulations. The company has been directed to pause the rollout of the feature until the government's concerns are addressed.
Safety over privacyWhile user privacy does play a role in policymaking, the "sharp rise in cyber-enabled financial crime has undoubtedly shifted the center of gravity towards security," Reema Bhattacharya, head of Asia research at Verisk Maplecroft, told CNBC.
Meta's own Adversarial Threat report in March found that online scam syndicates targeted users in India more frequently than any country other than the U.S. According to the Indian government, cybercrime incidents more than doubled in 2024 to nearly 2.3 million cases from 1 million cases in 2022.
India has more than half a billion WhatsApp users, and this scale makes it prone to government scrutiny, experts said.
WhatApp's reach, coupled with the username feature, means "misinformation could spread even faster," and scammers could use familiar names and photos to impersonate people, said Neil Shah, vice president of research at Counterpoint Research.
Some of these concerns are being addressed by Meta. The company told CNBC that it would reserve the highest-profile names, which can only be claimed by their legitimate owners, and withhold lookalike derivatives of known names to protect against impersonation.
Governments increasingly expect digital platforms to share responsibility for reducing harm, Bhattacharya said, but added that it is difficult "to draw the line between legitimate regulation and measures that could discourage innovation or weaken user privacy."
The government oversight of WhatsApp's username feature comes just weeks after India temporarily banned Telegram to prevent exam fraud during a crucial national test.
The government said that the platform hosted several channels that made false claims to have leaked test papers and then demanded money from candidates and their families for access. Telegram responded that the move punished "150 million ordinary users of the app" in India, and not those who leaked the exam material.
India has asked Meta to hold off launching its username feature on WhatsApp in the world's most populous country, citing concerns over fraud and impersonation, media reports said Thursday.
Tesla Model 3 vehicles are shown for sale at a Tesla facility in Long Beach, California, U.S., May 22, 2023. REUTERS/Mike Blake Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab
CompaniesJuly 2 (Reuters) - The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Thursday said it had closed its 2022 preliminary evaluation into 695,000 Tesla (TSLA.O), opens new tab vehicles over unexpected deceleration, citing low demonstrated hazard to drivers and a substantial drop in incidents.
Here are a few details:
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The investigation covered Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.
NHTSA said that Tesla had released software updates in early 2022 to target unexpected deceleration.
Incident reports declined to 45 in 2024, 19 in 2025, and three since the start of 2026, according to the auto safety regulator. There were 300 such reports when the investigation was opened.
The regulator said the reported conditions did not alter the vehicle’s lateral positioning in their lanes and did not cause significant loss in distance between the subject and following vehicle to lead to a collision.
Last week, NHTSA had separately closed an expanded probe covering an estimated 376,241 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles over loss of steering control.
Reporting by Disha Mishra in Bengaluru; Editing by Nivedita Bhattacharjee
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab
A Google logo is seen at a company research facility in Mountain View, California, U.S., May 13, 2025. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights, opens new tab
CompaniesBRUSSELS, July 2 (Reuters) - Alphabet's (GOOGL.O), opens new tab Google on Thursday lost its fight against a record fine imposed by EU antitrust regulators eight years ago for using its Android mobile operating system to block rivals, a court ruling likely to boost Europe's crackdown on Big Tech.
The European Commission had originally handed out a €4.34 billion fine to Google in 2018 for its agreements which forced phone manufacturers to pre-install Google Search, the Chrome browser and the Google Play app store on their Android devices and prevented them from using rival Android systems.
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A lower tribunal subsequently trimmed the fine to €4.1 billion in 2022 after the world's most popular search engine challenged the EU penalty. Google then appealed to the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union, Europe's highest.
The court sided with the EU antitrust enforcer.
"The appeal brought by Google and its parent company Alphabet against the judgment of the General Court is dismissed, thereby confirming the penalty imposed for Google Search's abuse of a dominant position in the context of the Android operating system," judges said.
A Google spokesperson said that the judgment failed to take into account its investment to ensure Android remains open, interoperable and free.
"In any event, we adapted our agreements to comply with the initial decision back in 2018 and we remain focused on continued innovation and openness for our users, partners and developers", Google said.
Google has racked up close to €11 billion in EU fines in the last decades for various antitrust infringements.
It will likely see more fines in the near future for allegedly favouring its own services and products in search results and for practices related to its app store, both of which fall under the Digital Markets Act aimed at reining in the power of Big Tech.
The case is C-738/22 P Google and Alphabet v Commission.
Reporting by Foo Yun Chee and Sudip Kar-Gupta; Editing by Louise Heavens
Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles., opens new tab
An agenda-setting and market-moving journalist, Foo Yun Chee is a 21-year veteran at Reuters. Her stories on high profile mergers have pushed up the European telecoms index, lifted companies' shares and helped investors decide on their next move. Her knowledge and experience of European antitrust laws and developments helped her break stories on Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Meta and Apple, numerous market-moving mergers and antitrust investigations. She has previously reported on Greek politics and companies, when Greece's entry into the eurozone meant it punched above its weight on the international stage, as well as on Dutch corporate giants and the quirks of Dutch society and culture that never fail to charm readers.
Europe's top court on Thursday upheld Google's fine of around 4.1 billion euros ($4.67 billion) over alleged anti-competitive practices.
In 2018, the European Commission slapped Google with the record-breaking penalty on the grounds that it abused Android's mobile dominance to give unfair advantage to its own apps via pre-installation deals with smartphone makers.
Google has been appealing the ruling through the EU court system. But the European Court of Justice (ECJ), Europe's top court, dismissed Google's appeal.
"The Court of Justice dismisses the appeal brought by Google and Alphabet against that judgment of the General Court, thereby confirming the penalty imposed on them, as revised by the General Court, for their anticompetitive practices relating to the Android operating system," the ECJ said in a press release.
CNBC has reached out to Google for comment.
In 2022, a lower EU court reduced the fine to the current 4.1 billion euros from 4.34 billion euros previously.
Google has argued that the Android operating system provides choice for users and supports developers and businesses across Europe.
"Android provides more choice for everyone and supports thousands of businesses. This judgment fails to recognize our significant investment to ensure Android remains open, interoperable and free," a Google spokesperson told CNBC.
"In any event, we adapted our agreements to comply with the initial decision back in 2018 and we remain focused on continued innovation and openness for our users, partners and developers."
Google has attempted to allay the Commission's concerns over the years such as allowing Android users to switch between search engines and browsers so they are not tied to the company's apps.
EU's Big Tech crackdownThe European Commission, the EU's executive arm, has been pursuing Google for more than a decade after first opening proceedings against the company in 2015.
Google has been in the crosshairs of the Commission over several alleged antitrust practices. Last year, the Commission hit Google with a 2.95 billion euro fine for anti-competitive practices in its advertising technology business.
While antitrust is still a focus for the Commission, the regulator is now looking at the practices of big technology firms under the sweeping Digital Markets Act, with companies like Apple and Meta also under scrutiny.
Europe's treatment of U.S. technology companies has drawn the ire of President Donald Trump and other U.S. officials. Last month, Trump threatened to impose a "100% TARIFF" on goods of any country that imposes a digital services tax on U.S. Companies. European countries such as France and Spain have imposed a digital services tax.
In March, the U.S. ambassador to the EU Andrew Puzder told CNBC that Europe "can't over regulate" and hit companies with "huge fines" if it is going to participate in the AI economy.
The EU's top court will decide Thursday whether to uphold a record 4.1 billion euro ($4.7 billion) fine the bloc slapped on Google for anticompetitive practices related to its Android operating system.
