Leon Capital Group founder talks about investments in unglamorous businesses, career-defining bets during the financial crisis, and why he still sometimes balks at his dry-cleaning bill

TUCSON, Ariz. — A retired Pima County sheriff’s detective who cracked one of Tucson’s most notorious cold cases believes authorities investigating the disappearance of Nancy Guthrie may already have the suspects’ names among tens of thousands of tips received since the 84-year-old vanished from her Catalina Foothills home.

Robbie Mayer, the former detective who helped solve the “Prime Time Rapist” case in 1986, shared his insights into the high-profile investigation that has drawn national attention as the mother of NBC “Today” show co-anchor Savannah Guthrie. More than 110 days after Guthrie was last seen on Jan. 31, 2026, no arrests have been made, but Mayer expressed confidence that critical information is already in investigators’ hands.

“We ended up with more than 4,000 leads,” Mayer recalled of the Prime Time Rapist investigation. “One of the detectives had Larriva’s name as a lead, but he hadn’t gotten to it yet because he had so many leads in front of that.”

The Prime Time Rapist, identified as Brian Larriva, terrorized Tucson women from 1983 to 1986, breaking into homes, burglarizing them and sexually assaulting residents. Larriva died by suicide as police surrounded his home. The case left a lasting mark on the community, particularly in the Foothills area where some victims lived near Guthrie’s residence.

Mayer drew parallels to the Guthrie case, where authorities have reportedly received around 50,000 tips. “I believe the suspect’s names are in those 50,000. The question is if they can recognize it when they see it. Being in a case like this is like being in a field with rocks and what you’re looking for is under one rock. You just have to keep turning.”

The retired detective theorized that more than one person could be involved, possibly linked to a theft group that targeted elderly victims with financial resources in the Phoenix area two years ago. However, he stressed the unique challenges of the case.

“This case is so unique. Most of the time we try and find patterns. We can’t in this case,” Mayer said. “These guys came prepared not to leave hair or DNA. Look at how that guy was clothed. They turned off their cell phones.”

Doorbell camera footage released early in the investigation showed a masked individual with a gun at Guthrie’s door on the night she disappeared. Drops of blood believed to be hers were found on the property, and DNA analysis is ongoing. Sheriff Chris Nanos has said the forensics team is getting closer to identifying the contributor.

“I know we have DNA that is unknown, who the contributor or depositor is, but I think they’re getting closer to finding out who that was,” Nanos told People magazine.

Mayer praised the current investigation’s caliber. “This is a very high-caliber investigation, and I think the FBI is gonna crack the case,” he added.

The case has captivated public interest, with a $50,000 reward offered by the FBI and additional incentives from the Guthrie family. Ransom notes received by the family have been part of the investigation, though details remain limited. No suspects have been publicly named, and family members have been cleared.

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos has pushed back against descriptions of the case as “cold,” saying it would only reach that status if labs confirm they cannot identify the blood evidence. Investigators continue processing leads, including surveillance footage and tips about potential vehicles of interest.

For residents in the Foothills neighborhood, the disappearance has stirred memories of the Prime Time Rapist era. “It changed people’s lifestyle because children were afraid to sleep in their own bedroom,” Mayer said of that earlier crime wave.

Mayer urged patience as the investigation advances. “It takes a lot of diligence and willpower,” he stated. “Some guys I’ve chased for 18 months before I caught them, one guy I was after for five years, but I think you have to be patient and don’t get discouraged.”

The disappearance occurred after Guthrie spent an evening at her daughter Annie’s home. She missed a church livestream the next morning, prompting family concern. Authorities describe it as a likely abduction, with signs of a targeted attack.

As the search enters its fourth month, community efforts continue with flyers, vigils and social media campaigns. The involvement of the FBI has brought additional resources, including analysis of potential cross-border elements early in the probe.

Forensic work remains central. Beyond the blood evidence, items like gloves found nearby have been examined. A bone discovered near the property was later determined to be ancient and unrelated.

Mayer’s perspective offers a seasoned view on sifting through massive tip volumes. In the Prime Time Rapist case, connecting Larriva through a drug dealer proved pivotal after months of work. Similar breakthroughs could emerge in the Guthrie investigation as patterns or connections surface among the leads.

Law enforcement officials have not ruled out multiple perpetrators. The professional preparation suggested by the lack of DNA and disabled phones points to sophisticated actors, according to Mayer’s analysis. This has complicated traditional investigative patterns.

The national spotlight on the case, fueled by Savannah Guthrie’s public profile, has generated widespread tips but also intense scrutiny. Sheriff Nanos and his department have faced questions about management and priorities, including during a recent Pima County Board of Supervisors meeting.

Despite frustrations over the lack of quick resolution, Mayer’s message emphasizes persistence. The volume of leads, while overwhelming, increases the statistical chance that key information is already logged in the system awaiting proper review and connection.

As summer approaches in Tucson, the search for answers continues. Investigators are following up on multiple locations and maintaining inter-agency cooperation. The Guthrie family has expressed gratitude for public support while appealing for any additional information.

Mayer’s experience solving a decades-old pattern of crimes in the same region lends credibility to his optimism. His belief that the suspects’ identities may already be in the database serves as both reassurance and a call for thorough, methodical police work.

The case highlights broader challenges in missing persons investigations involving elderly victims, where targeted theft or abduction can leave minimal traces. Advanced DNA technology and digital forensics offer new tools that were unavailable during the Prime Time Rapist era.

Community members in the affluent Foothills area have heightened security awareness. The contrast between the quiet neighborhood and the violent intrusion has unsettled residents long familiar with the earlier serial crimes.

Looking forward, officials hope forensic breakthroughs or a tip that connects disparate pieces of information will provide resolution. Until then, the investigation proceeds with the steady determination Mayer described from his own career.

The Nancy Guthrie case serves as a stark reminder of vulnerability and the complexities of modern investigations, even with significant resources deployed. As leads continue to be processed, authorities maintain that every tip matters in the search for justice.

HONG KONG — Champion jockey James McDonald secured a place in Hong Kong racing history aboard Romantic Warrior but paid a price when stewards suspended him for careless riding following the gelding’s dramatic completion of the Hong Kong Triple Crown on Sunday at Sha Tin.

The 34-year-old Australian rider guided the Danny Shum-trained eight-year-old to victory in the HK$13 million Group 1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup over 2,400 meters, clinching the series after earlier wins in the Stewards’ Cup and Hong Kong Gold Cup. Romantic Warrior became just the third horse to achieve the feat, joining River Verdon (1993/94) and Voyage Bubble (2024/25).

The Irish-bred son of Acclamation overcame runner-up Numbers by half a length in a time of 2:26.67, matching last year’s mark, with Deep Monster a further 1 1/2 lengths back in third. The triumph pushed the superstar’s world-record career earnings past HK$288 million and delivered a HK$10 million Triple Crown bonus to owner Peter Lau.

McDonald, who has partnered Romantic Warrior for all his starts since 2024, delivered a patient ride. The horse settled fourth early before launching a strong finish in the straight, overhauling the leaders inside the final 50 meters. Yet the victory came under scrutiny after stewards determined McDonald directed his mount inward near the 300-meter mark, interfering with Deep Monster.

The incident forced Deep Monster, ridden by Joao Moreira, to check sharply to avoid contact with Numbers, causing the third-place finisher to shift out and make heavy contact with the winner. A post-race stewards’ inquiry reviewed the interference, but placings remained unchanged due to the two-length margin at the finish.

Stewards found McDonald guilty of careless riding under Rule 100(1). He received an eight-day suspension — three Hong Kong racedays — commencing June 3 and expiring June 11, along with a HK$120,000 fine (approximately £11,354 or AU$21,400). The penalty reflected a grade 3 carelessness assessment and grade 2 consequences.

Despite the controversy, McDonald praised the champion. “The boss said he’s already an immortal and I totally agree with him. He didn’t need to win this today to be that but he’s put the cherry on top. He should be Horse of the Year this year and I think we’ve stamped that with the Triple Crown.”

Trainer Danny Shum expressed satisfaction with the performance. “He hit the line in the last 400m, so James has done a great job. He’s a top-class jockey.” Shum also highlighted the horse’s versatility as a globetrotter who has excelled across distances and international venues.

The win marked McDonald’s 20th Group 1 victory of the season and Romantic Warrior’s 15th top-level success. The gelding has established himself as one of Hong Kong’s all-time greats, with prior victories including multiple Hong Kong Cups, the Cox Plate and Japan’s Yasuda Kinen.

Racing fans and analysts hailed the achievement as a crowning moment for the consistent performer, though some expressed disappointment that the stewards’ finding slightly tempered the celebration. The inquiry added late drama to what had been a commanding campaign for the Peter Lau-owned star.

Romantic Warrior’s path to the Triple Crown demonstrated remarkable durability for an eight-year-old. After early-season victories, he defended his Hong Kong Gold Cup title in March before delivering in the grueling 2,400-meter final leg. Many questioned whether the distance suited his profile, but McDonald’s tactical acumen proved decisive.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club’s decision to uphold the result aligned with precedents where margins and overall race flow factor heavily. No protest was lodged by connections of Deep Monster, allowing weighed-in to be declared after review.

McDonald’s suspension will sideline him for several key meetings in early June, a notable absence for the world’s top-ranked jockey. He has dominated the Hong Kong scene in recent seasons while maintaining commitments in Australia and internationally.

For Shum and the stable, the focus now shifts to giving the champion a well-earned break. Future plans remain open, potentially including more international targets, though the immediate priority is preserving the horse’s soundness after a demanding season.

The Triple Crown triumph underscores Hong Kong racing’s depth and global appeal. With substantial prize money and a sophisticated betting market, the jurisdiction continues attracting elite talent like McDonald and producing stars capable of competing worldwide.

Observers noted the emotional weight of the moment for connections. Owner Peter Lau has backed the horse through an illustrious career, making strategic decisions that maximized his potential. The team’s cohesion — from training to riding — has been credited as key to sustained success.

In the broader context of the 2025/26 season, McDonald’s 20 Group 1 wins highlight his supremacy, even as this latest chapter ends with a penalty. The incident serves as a reminder of the fine margins in elite racing, where split-second decisions under pressure can draw official scrutiny.

Romantic Warrior’s legacy now firmly includes Triple Crown immortality. Only two predecessors achieved the same feat in Hong Kong’s modern era, cementing the gelding’s status among the territory’s pantheon of greats. His fighting spirit in Sunday’s race — coming from off the pace under pressure — epitomized his warrior-like qualities.

As the racing community digests the result, discussions continue about Horse of the Year honors. McDonald’s post-race comments positioned the champion strongly, citing the perfect season and historic accomplishment as compelling arguments.

The sport moves forward with McDonald expected back in the saddle mid-June, while Romantic Warrior enjoys a deserved respite. For fans, the images of the late surge and emotional celebrations will linger, marking another unforgettable chapter in Hong Kong racing lore.

The balance of glory and consequence on Sunday exemplifies the highs and regulatory realities of professional horseracing. McDonald’s ride secured legendary status for his partner while underscoring the need for precision in crowded straight runs.

With the season winding down, attention turns to how this victory reshapes end-of-year awards and influences future breeding and racing decisions for an aging but still dominant competitor. Analysts suggest the achievement could influence how future generations of stayers are bred and campaigned in Asia’s premier racing hub.

The stewards’ ruling, while impacting McDonald personally, does little to diminish the historic nature of the performance. Romantic Warrior joins an exclusive club, and his late rally under pressure will be replayed in highlight reels for years to come. The eight-year-old’s ability to produce at the highest level late in his career stands as a testament to careful management by trainer Shum and the Lau family.

Hong Kong racing officials have emphasized that the penalty was standard procedure and does not reflect any intent to disadvantage other runners. The sport’s integrity remains a priority, with video reviews and inquiries serving as safeguards in high-stakes events.

Looking ahead, the 2026/27 season promises new challenges as younger talents emerge to challenge established stars like Romantic Warrior. For now, the narrative centers on celebration tempered by accountability — a classic racing story where triumph and consequence coexist.

The event drew significant international attention, with racing enthusiasts from Australia, Europe and Japan tuning in to witness the potential crowning of a modern legend. Social media buzzed with replays of the final furlong and debates over the interference call, highlighting the passionate global following for Hong Kong’s premier races.

McDonald’s season totals position him as a clear leader among his peers, a status he has worked hard to maintain through consistent excellence across multiple jurisdictions. The brief suspension allows time for rest and reflection before resuming what has been a dominant campaign.

In racing circles, the conversation has already shifted toward whether Romantic Warrior will attempt further international campaigns or retire on this high note. Either path would cement his legacy as one of the most accomplished and beloved horses of his generation.

WASHINGTON — Borrowing costs for American consumers are climbing sharply as a global bond sell-off pushes Treasury yields to levels not seen in nearly two decades, driven by persistent inflation concerns, elevated oil prices and worries over the nation’s expanding debt load.

The 30-year Treasury bond yield reached its highest point since 2007 earlier this week before settling around 5.18 percent, while the benchmark 10-year note climbed to about 4.68 percent — its highest level since January 2025. These increases are rippling directly into everyday finances, with mortgage rates and auto loan costs rising in tandem.

For homebuyers, the impact is immediate. The average rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage hit 6.75 percent on Tuesday, according to Mortgage News Daily, marking the highest level since late July and up nearly half a percentage point since mid-April. That increase adds hundreds of dollars to monthly payments for typical loans, further straining affordability in a housing market already challenged by high prices.

Car buyers face similar pressure. The average interest rate on a new-auto loan reached 9.45 percent in April, per Cox Automotive data, pushing the typical monthly payment on a new vehicle to $757. Used-car loans have also climbed, making vehicle ownership more expensive at a time when many families rely on reliable transportation for work and daily life.

The connection stems from how financial markets operate. The U.S. government issues Treasury bonds to fund its massive debt, now exceeding $36 trillion. When investors demand higher returns due to inflation risks or fiscal concerns, yields rise. Banks and lenders then use these yields as benchmarks to set rates on consumer loans, passing on the higher costs.

Olumide Owolabi, a senior portfolio manager and head of U.S. rates at Neuberger Berman, pointed to government borrowing needs as a key factor. “The U.S. government’s borrowing needs have been one of the drivers of rising yields in recent weeks,” he said.

Several forces are fueling the bond market turmoil. Oil prices remain stuck above $100 a barrel amid ongoing tensions from the conflict in Iran, raising fears that energy costs will feed broader inflation. Investors worry the Federal Reserve may need to resume rate hikes or hold rates higher for longer, reducing the appeal of existing bonds and driving yields up further.

The 10-year Treasury note, in particular, serves as a critical reference point for mortgage pricing. Lenders add a spread to account for risk and profit, so even modest yield jumps translate into noticeably higher home loan rates. Fixed-rate mortgages have now erased much of the relief seen earlier in the year when rates briefly dipped below 6 percent.

Auto financing follows a similar pattern. Lenders tie vehicle loans to broader market rates, and the combination of higher borrowing costs and elevated car prices has made monthly payments a growing burden. Many buyers are opting for longer loan terms to manage affordability, though this increases total interest paid over time.

Economists warn that sustained high rates could cool consumer spending, a major driver of U.S. economic growth. Housing activity, already subdued, may slow further as prospective buyers delay purchases or seek smaller homes. The auto sector, which supports millions of jobs, could see softer demand if financing remains expensive.

The sell-off in bonds reflects deeper anxieties about Washington’s fiscal path. With annual deficits running high and debt servicing costs rising, some investors are demanding greater compensation for holding U.S. government debt. Global factors, including shifting policies from major central banks and geopolitical risks, have amplified the volatility.

Fed officials have acknowledged the challenges. While recent inflation readings showed some moderation, sticky components like shelter costs and energy prices keep policymakers cautious. Markets now price in fewer rate cuts for the remainder of 2026 than anticipated just months ago.

For ordinary Americans, the effects extend beyond big-ticket purchases. Credit card rates, home equity lines of credit and personal loans are also trending higher, adding pressure to household budgets already stretched by grocery and utility bills.

Regional differences appear in the data. Coastal markets with higher home values feel the mortgage rate spike more acutely, while Midwest and Southern states see pronounced effects on vehicle financing due to longer commuting distances.

Financial advisers recommend locking in rates where possible. Homebuyers with strong credit may still secure relatively competitive terms, but experts suggest shopping multiple lenders and considering adjustable-rate options carefully despite their risks. For car purchases, negotiating longer warranties or opting for certified pre-owned vehicles can help offset higher financing costs.

The bond market’s message carries implications for the broader economy. Higher yields can strengthen the dollar, potentially hurting U.S. exporters, while also raising costs for corporate borrowing and state and local governments funding infrastructure projects.

Some analysts see potential relief if inflation cools faster than expected or if geopolitical tensions ease, allowing oil prices to retreat. However, others caution that structural debt concerns may keep yields elevated for the foreseeable future.

The situation highlights the interconnectedness of global finance and daily life. Decisions made in bond trading rooms in New York and London directly influence whether a family in Ohio can afford their dream home or a new car for their teenager’s commute to college.

As summer approaches, many consumers are reassessing big financial commitments. Real estate agents report increased hesitation among buyers, while dealerships note more negotiations over loan terms. Economists will watch upcoming housing starts, existing home sales and auto sales data closely for signs of broader slowdown.

The recent surge in yields marks a reversal from earlier optimism that rates had peaked. The 30-year bond’s move above 5 percent serves as a stark reminder of the long-term challenges in balancing growth, inflation and fiscal responsibility.

Policymakers in Washington face growing calls to address the debt trajectory, though partisan divides complicate meaningful action. In the meantime, the burden falls on consumers navigating a higher-rate environment that shows little immediate sign of easing.

For those with adjustable-rate mortgages or variable loans, the coming months could bring additional adjustments. Fixed-rate borrowers who secured loans in recent years may hold an advantage, underscoring the importance of timing in personal finance.

Market participants continue monitoring Fed communications and inflation reports. Any signs of renewed price pressures could push yields even higher, further tightening financial conditions across the economy.

The current environment tests the resilience of American households. While job markets remain relatively solid, the combination of elevated borrowing costs and lingering inflation creates a challenging backdrop for spending and investment decisions.

Longer term, structural shifts such as an aging population and evolving work patterns may influence how consumers approach debt. For now, the immediate focus remains on managing the impact of rising Treasury yields on mortgages, car loans and overall financial well-being.

As investors demand higher returns on U.S. debt, everyday Americans are feeling the consequences through their monthly payments and reduced purchasing power. The coming weeks will reveal whether this bond market pressure represents a temporary spike or the start of a more prolonged period of elevated borrowing costs.

Operator

Good morning, and welcome to Topps Tiles Plc investor presentation. [Operator Instructions] Before we begin, I’d like to submit the following poll. I’d now like to hand over to Alex Jensen, CEO. Good morning.

Alexandra Jensen
CEO & Executive Director

Thank you, Lilly, and welcome, everyone, to the Topps interim update. I’m joined, of course, today by our Interim CFO, Rob Swales.

So to put these first half results into context, Mission 365 lays out an ambition to grow revenue 50% higher than the 2024 baseline and to deliver PBT margin of 8%. In 2025, we achieved 40% of this revenue ambition and 12% of our profit growth ambition.

In December, I laid out 6 priorities for the year, crucial to realizing this ambition. And I’m pleased to say that we’ve made significant progress against each. And to remind you, they were to increase focus on bottom line, to deliver trade growth, to accelerate digital, to increase sales excellence in Topps and to tackle the nonprofitable parts of the business.

And I’m going to talk to you about these in detail later in the presentation. But to summarize at a high level, we have increased our focus on profit. We continue to expand gross margin and have implemented 3 major self-help cost initiatives aimed at accelerating progress to 8% PBT margin.

On the top line, we have outperformed a softer RMI market. This has been underpinned by growth in trade, in digital and delivering sales excellence and new categories. We have also had a laser-like focus on improving the profit of our acquisitions with the loss on CTD more than halving and

David Tawil
CEO & Director

Welcome to the Annual General and Special Meeting of the Shareholders of Centaurus Energy, Inc., which I will now refer to as the company. My name is David Tawil. I’m the CEO and Chairman of the corporation. And with the consent of this meeting, I will act as Chair of the meeting.

The purpose of this annual general and special meeting of the shareholders is to allow the shareholders to receive the audited financial statements of the company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2025, together with the auditor’s report thereon.

Fix the number of directors at 3 for the ensuing year, elect directors for the ensuing year.

Appoint McGovern Hurley LLP, chartered professional accountants as the company’s auditors for the ensuing fiscal year at a remuneration to be fixed by the directors.

Consider and, if thought fit, approve an ordinary resolution renewing the stock option plan of the company.

Further information and background for this meeting generally and the resolution specifically can be found in the management information proxy circular dated April 15, 2026, which was mailed to shareholders and filed on the company’s SEDAR+ profile and posted to the company’s website in advance of this meeting.

As this meeting will be conducted virtually, please ensure that your microphones are muted unless called upon by the chair, myself.

With the consent of this meeting, I will ask Paul Bedard of Odyssey Trust Company, to act as scrutineer for this meeting.

If anyone has not yet registered with the scrutineer, I would ask them please to unmute their mic now and register.

Callan Kimber, of Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt, with the