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Bill Gates Admits Extramarital Affairs, Apologizes for Epstein Ties, Denies Any Involvement in Crimes

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Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is a popular target for conspiracy theorists due to his support for vaccines and innovations in agriculture

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates admitted during a private town hall meeting with Gates Foundation staff on February 24, 2026, that he had two extramarital affairs with Russian women while married to ex-wife Melinda French Gates, describing the relationships as personal mistakes but insisting they did not involve victims of Jeffrey Epstein’s sex trafficking network.

Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is a popular target for conspiracy theorists due to his support for vaccines and innovations in agriculture
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates
AFP

Gates, 70, expressed deep regret over his association with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, calling the meetings a “huge mistake” that negatively impacted the foundation’s reputation and work. He apologized to employees for drawing them into scrutiny and reaffirmed that he “did nothing illicit” and “saw nothing illicit” during his interactions with Epstein.

“I did have affairs, one with a Russian bridge player who met me at bridge events, and one with a Russian nuclear physicist who I met through business activities,” Gates said, according to a recording reviewed by The Wall Street Journal and corroborated by multiple outlets including Reuters, AFP, and Forbes. He emphasized that Epstein later learned of the relationships but maintained the women were not connected to Epstein’s alleged abuse of underage girls.

The admissions came amid renewed attention following recent document releases by the U.S. Department of Justice related to Epstein’s case. Draft emails from Epstein in 2013 alleged Gates engaged in extramarital affairs and referenced other unsubstantiated claims, which Gates’ representatives have repeatedly called “absolutely absurd and completely false,” attributing them to Epstein’s attempts at leverage or extortion.

Gates told staff he met Epstein several times primarily to discuss philanthropy, never stayed overnight at Epstein’s properties, never visited his private island, and never spent time with Epstein’s victims. He described regretting every minute spent with Epstein and bringing foundation executives to some meetings.

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A Gates Foundation spokesperson confirmed in a statement to Reuters on February 24 that Gates “took responsibility for his actions” during the town hall and addressed the Epstein ties directly. The spokesperson declined further comment beyond the apology and regret expressed.

The revelations follow Gates’ 2021 divorce from Melinda French Gates, who cited his Epstein meetings among factors contributing to the marriage’s breakdown. Melinda had warned Bill against continued contact as early as 2013, according to prior reports. Epstein died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges.

Gates has long maintained his Epstein interactions were limited to fundraising discussions for global health initiatives. He previously described the association as a “huge mistake” in interviews but had not publicly detailed the personal affairs until the town hall. The admissions align with 2023 reports that Epstein attempted to extort Gates over an alleged affair with a Russian bridge player, Mila Antonova, whom Gates met in 2010.

No criminal charges have been filed against Gates related to Epstein, and he has not been accused of participating in Epstein’s crimes. The U.S. Department of Justice documents released in early 2026, including photos with redacted faces and draft emails, renewed public speculation but contained no new evidence implicating Gates in wrongdoing.

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Reactions to the town hall comments were swift. Philanthropy observers noted the foundation’s need to protect its mission-focused reputation amid donor scrutiny. Some critics questioned the timing of the disclosures, while supporters viewed Gates’ candor as accountability. The Gates Foundation, focused on global health, poverty reduction, and education, continues operations unaffected, with billions committed to initiatives like vaccine development and climate efforts.

Gates has stepped back from day-to-day Microsoft involvement since 2020 but remains one of the world’s wealthiest individuals and most influential philanthropists. His foundation has distributed hundreds of billions in grants since its inception.

The latest statements underscore Gates’ efforts to address lingering Epstein-related questions head-on while separating personal failings from any criminal conduct. As the foundation navigates its post-divorce structure and Gates continues public appearances, the admissions may close one chapter of scrutiny but highlight the lasting impact of his Epstein association.

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GameStop (GME) Stock Trades Near $24 as Retail Interest Reignites, CEO Acquisition Vision Fuels Speculation

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Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella says the US tech giant plans to invest $3 billion in India on AI and cloud infrastructure over the next two years

GameStop Corp.’s stock has stabilized near $24 in late February 2026, closing at $23.92 on February 25 after a modest 0.63% gain, as renewed retail investor enthusiasm and CEO Ryan Cohen’s comments on pursuing transformative acquisitions keep the meme stock in focus despite ongoing challenges in the core retail business.

Young investors are sometimes seen skeptically following their role in the GameStop stock craze, but say they are clued in to the market's risks
GameStop Stock

As of February 25, 2026, GameStop (NYSE: GME) traded in a session range of $23.71 to $24.11 with volume around 800,000 to several million shares across recent days. The shares have risen about 15% year-to-date in 2026, recovering from earlier weakness and trading well above 2025 lows near $20 but far below the all-time highs from the 2021 squeeze. Market capitalization hovers around $10.6 billion to $10.7 billion.

The recent uptick reflects a mix of retail momentum and strategic commentary from Cohen. In January 2026 interviews and filings, Cohen outlined ambitions for a “very big” acquisition of a publicly traded consumer company that could dramatically reshape GameStop’s profile and potentially increase its value significantly. Reports suggested a deal could target a consumer megadeal worth billions, positioning GameStop as a holding company with stronger growth prospects beyond declining physical game sales. A social media post in February declaring “We’ll take a million” further sparked speculation among retail traders about bold moves or share repurchases.

GameStop’s cash position—bolstered by prior equity raises—provides flexibility for such pursuits. The company holds billions in cash equivalents, enabling potential transformative investments while core operations face structural pressures. Revenue continues to trend lower due to digital game distribution shifts, with Q3 2025 (fiscal third quarter ended October 2025) showing $821 million, down 4.57% year-over-year. Profitability has improved through aggressive cost controls, including store closures—GameStop is expected to shutter around 470 locations by early 2026—and a focus on higher-margin segments like collectibles and partnerships.

Recent developments include insider activity supporting confidence. CEO Ryan Cohen purchased 1 million shares in prior periods for over $21 million, with additional buys from executives and directors in January and February 2026. Institutional moves show mixed signals, with some additions and reductions, but retail forums and options activity remain elevated. A February social media post hinting at ambitious targets ignited discussions about potential mergers or buybacks.

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Analysts debate valuation amid the narrative shift from meme volatility to capital allocation play. Consensus leans cautious, with average 12-month price targets around $13.50 to $15, implying downside from current levels and reflecting skepticism about sustainable profitability. Some models suggest intrinsic value as low as $11.91, while optimistic retail-driven estimates reach $220, highlighting the wide gap between fundamental views and speculative enthusiasm. P/E ratios sit elevated at around 25-28x recent earnings, with forward guidance tied to cost discipline and any acquisition success.

GameStop’s next earnings report, for fiscal Q4 2025 (ended January 2026), is expected March 24, 2026, before market open, with a conference call the following day. Traders anticipate updates on holiday sales, store optimization, cash deployment, and progress toward Cohen’s strategic goals. Positive surprises on margins or deal announcements could extend gains; continued revenue softness might pressure shares.

The company has explored partnerships, including with Cineverse for film promotions and PSA for collectibles grading, diversifying beyond traditional gaming retail. However, core challenges persist: declining foot traffic in brick-and-mortar stores, competition from digital platforms, and a shrinking physical game market. Analysts note GameStop’s evolution into a cash-rich entity with acquisition potential, but execution risks remain high in a competitive consumer landscape.

Retail sentiment on platforms like Reddit and X continues to drive volatility, with “diamond hands” holders emphasizing long-term bets on Cohen’s vision. Institutional coverage remains limited, with some firms maintaining Sell or Reduce ratings due to structural headwinds in retail gaming.

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GameStop’s trajectory in 2026 hinges on balancing legacy operations with bold strategic moves. Cohen’s acquisition focus and the company’s cash hoard offer upside potential if a transformative deal materializes, while retail enthusiasm could sustain momentum. As earnings approach, investors watch for signs of progress beyond meme status toward a redefined business model.

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Escalante amends bail to get jet access

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Escalante amends bail to get jet access

Gaming billionaire Laurence Escalante has faced court to amend his bail and suppression order in a bid which could see him gain access to his private jet.

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MTU Aero Engines Shares Fall After Outlook Narrowly Misses Expectations

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MTU Aero Engines Shares Fall After Outlook Narrowly Misses Expectations

MTU Aero Engines MTX 1.10%increase; green up pointing triangle shares fell after the German aircraft-engine manufacturer gave cash-flow and earnings guidance for 2026 that, at the midpoint of its ranges, came in slightly below consensus expectations.

Shares in MTU were down 7.7% in European afternoon trading, reducing the stock’s year-to-date gain to 3.3%.

Copyright ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8

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ADCO wins $163m hockey centre redevelopment contract

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ADCO wins $163m hockey centre redevelopment contract

Ground has broken for construction of the $163 million Australian Hockey Centre at Curtin University’s Bentley campus.

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Neal West, Kaiser Aluminum EVP, sells $608k in shares

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Neal West, Kaiser Aluminum EVP, sells $608k in shares

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AMD Stock Rallies on Meta Chip Deal

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David Uberti hedcut

That’s the value of the deal Advanced Micro Devices and Meta Platforms unveiled this morning, which will see the Facebook owner buy 6 gigawatts’ worth of AI computing power.

AMD (AMD) stock jumped 6.5% Tuesday morning.

Nvidia (NVDA) and Meta (META) shares were little changed.

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Home Prices Ended 2025 Stronger Than Expected. Where Buyers and Sellers Are Looking.

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Home Prices Ended 2025 Stronger Than Expected. Where Buyers and Sellers Are Looking.

Home Prices Ended 2025 Stronger Than Expected. Where Buyers and Sellers Are Looking.

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Oil climbs as US-Iran tensions keep supply risks in focus

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Oil climbs as US-Iran tensions keep supply risks in focus


Oil climbs as US-Iran tensions keep supply risks in focus

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Export uncertainty may dull domestic momentum for solar companies

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Export uncertainty may dull domestic momentum for solar companies
ET Intelligence Group: The imposition of countervailing duty (CVD) by the US Department of Commerce on solar modules from India is set to impact not just exporters but also companies focusing on the domestic market. With the viability of US-bound shipments now uncertain due to a CVD of 125.87%, exporters are likely to redirect unsold inventory to the Indian market. According to analysts, this may bring down module prices and affect realisations.

“Companies with minimal or no exports to the US will also be impacted by CVD. They face indirect risk, if export volumes from peers are redirected to India. Increased domestic supply could pressure module realisations,” Sweta Jain, research analyst, Anand Rathi Institutional Equities told ET. Indian exports may also look at other alternative markets in Africa or the Middle East and North Africa region, she added.

Companies rely on the US due to higher realisations. Imposition of CVD will wipe out the price advantage that previously allowed Indian manufacturers to earn superior margins.

US Duty may Lead to Margin Pinch for ‘Solar’ FirmsAgencies

inventory glut could hit local biz; stocks slide

Waaree Energies tried to soothe investors’ nerves by saying the company’s exports will not be impacted by CVD. “The company has been progressively strengthening its US-based manufacturing footprint as part of its long-term strategy to support localized production,” Waaree Energies said in a statement communicated to stock exchanges on Wednesday. It has an aggregate US module manufacturing capacity of approximately 2.6 GW, which will be expanded to approximately 4.2 GW by the end of the current financial year. It had a total installed capacity of 23 GW at the end of December 2025.
The stock of Waaree Energies fell 10.5%, the sharpest among peers, to ₹2,709 on BSE. Shares of Vikram Solar and Premier Energies dropped 5.5% and 6.3%, respectively.

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Additionally, companies catering to solar firms also took beating. Solex Energy, maker of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules and EPC services provider for solar projects, plunged 8% while Waaree Renewable Technologies fell 3% on Wednesday.
The CVD has also eroded the future revenue visibility of Indian manufacturers that view the US as a key market for diversification and higher-margin exports. Companies that plan to increase their US exposure, invest in export-oriented capacity, or secure long-term supply contracts will now find those strategies commercially unviable under the steep duty regime. Investors will keenly watch further developments and any fruitful negotiations with the US government resulting in partial or full roll back of duties would offer a major relief.

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Chip giant Nvidia defies AI concerns with record $215bn revenue

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Chip giant Nvidia defies AI concerns with record $215bn revenue

Demand for Nvidia chips rose even as the company sets out to create AI products of its own.

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