The bar for tech companies to make AI profitable was already high. Then came a surge in memory-chip prices that has sent costs through the roof, adding fresh urgency to questions about who’s going to pay for it all and how.

The tech companies that are largely funding the AI boom have been avoiding that riddle. They need to invest in chips and data centers as fast as they can to capitalize on the world-changing potential of AI, they argue. This isn’t the time for prudence.

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

High-performing campaigns today aren’t just about visibility; they’re about measurable impact, relevance, and adaptability. With global digital ad spend surpassing $700 billion and dominating over 65% of total advertising, competition is intense, and only the smartest strategies cut through.

What separates top-performing brands is how they blend data, creativity, and customer understanding into cohesive campaigns.

Here are the key lessons modern brands are applying to stay ahead.

They Prioritise ROI Over Vanity Metrics

Modern campaigns are built around outcomes, not impressions. While likes and clicks still matter, brands now focus on conversion rates, revenue, and customer lifetime value. In fact, 83% of marketing leaders say demonstrating ROI is their top priority.

High-performing brands track performance across the full funnel, ensuring every campaign contributes to measurable growth rather than surface-level engagement.

They Combine Brand and Performance Marketing

The most effective campaigns no longer treat brand awareness and performance as separate efforts. Instead, they integrate both.

Recent data shows companies are rebalancing investments, with many increasing spend on brand building after over-focusing on short-term performance tactics.

The lesson is clear: campaigns that build recognition while driving conversions outperform those that chase quick wins alone.

They Invest Heavily in Content That Delivers Value

Content remains at the core of high-performing campaigns. Around 84% of organisations now have a content marketing strategy, and it continues to be a major driver of engagement and traffic.

What’s different today is the emphasis on quality and relevance. Successful brands are producing content that educates, entertains, or solves real problems, not just promotes products.

They Embrace AI to Scale Smarter

AI is no longer experimental; it’s foundational. Around 67% of marketers now use AI in content or SEO strategies, with 68% reporting improved ROI as a result.

High-performing campaigns use AI for:

• Audience targeting and segmentation
• Content ideation and optimisation
• Real-time performance adjustments

This allows brands to scale campaigns faster without sacrificing precision.

They Build Campaigns Around Personalisation

Generic messaging no longer works. Today’s audiences expect relevance at every touchpoint.

Leading brands use data to tailor messaging based on behaviour, preferences, and intent. This shift toward personalisation is a major driver of performance, especially in channels like email, where ROI can reach $36 for every $1 spent.

The takeaway is simple: the more tailored the experience, the stronger the results.

They Leverage Multiple Channels, Not Just One

High-performing campaigns don’t rely on a single platform. They operate across a mix of channels, including search, social, email, and video.

Organic search alone drives over 50% of website traffic, while social media and other channels play supporting roles in discovery and engagement.

Modern brands understand that success comes from channel synergy, not isolated tactics.

They Focus on Authenticity and Community

Audiences are becoming more sceptical of traditional advertising. Campaigns that feel overly polished or sales-driven often underperform.

Instead, brands are shifting toward authenticity, user-generated content, and community engagement. Many successful campaigns now rely on real voices and relatable storytelling to build trust and drive conversations.

They Use Video and Interactive Formats to Capture Attention

Attention is harder to earn than ever. That’s why 86% of businesses now use video as a key marketing tool, with most marketers considering it essential to their strategy.

High-performing campaigns go beyond static content by using:

• Short-form video
• Interactive experiences
• Live or real-time content

These formats increase engagement and keep audiences invested.

They Continuously Optimise, Not Set and Forget

The best campaigns are never static. They evolve based on data, testing, and performance insights.

Modern brands run ongoing A/B tests, refine messaging, and adjust targeting in real time. This continuous optimisation ensures campaigns improve over time rather than plateau.

They Work with Specialists to Maximise Performance

Behind many high-performing campaigns is a structured, expert-led approach. Brands are increasingly partnering with agencies and specialists to execute complex strategies effectively.

Working with experienced teams, such as neramarketing.co.uk, allows businesses to combine creative thinking with data-driven execution, ensuring campaigns are both innovative and results-focused.

Wrapping Up

High-performing campaigns aren’t built on a single tactic. They succeed because they combine strategy, creativity, and data into a cohesive approach.

Brands that prioritise ROI, embrace personalisation, leverage multiple channels, and continuously optimise their efforts are the ones seeing consistent results.

The difference today isn’t just what brands are doing, it’s how intentionally and intelligently they’re doing it.

Bajaj Auto‘s board on Wednesday cleared a share buyback worth Rs 5,633 crore where the two-wheeler major will purchase up to 46.94 lakh fully paid-up equity shares at a price of Rs 12,000 per share via a tender route. These shares represent up to 1.68% of the total number of equity shares in the company.

The company’s Board of Directors also approved a dividend of Rs 150 per share for the financial year ended March 31, 2026 and fixed Friday, May 29 as the record date to determine shareholders’ eligibility.

It will spend up to Rs 9,825 crore on the dividend and share buyback, a company filing to the exchanges said.

The announcements were made along with the company’s Q4 earnings where Bajaj Auto reported a standalone net profit at Rs 2,746 crore versus Rs 2,049 crore in the year ago period, implying a 34% YoY increase. The company’s revenue from operations in Q4FY26 rose 32% to Rs 16,006 crore versus Rs 12,148 crore posted in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year.

The maker of Pulsar and Dominar bikes reported a 10% sequential growth in its bottom line compared to Rs 2,503 crore in Q3FY25 while the topline grew 5% on a quarter-on-quarter basis versus Rs 15,220 crore in the October-December quarter of FY26.

The Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortisation (EBITDA) stood at Rs 3,323 crore in Q4FY26,up 36% versus Rs 2,451 crore in the year ago period. Meanwhile, EBITDA margin stood at 20.8%, up 60 bps versus 20.2% in the year ago period.
Bajaj Auto’s double-digit PAT and revenue growth rode on a 24% YoY rise in its volumes, which stood at 13.71 lakh units compared to 11.02 lakh units in the corresponding quarter of the last financial year. It was up 2% QoQ. In this domestic volumes grew 24% YoY to over 7.60 lakh units while exports witnessed a 25% rise to 6.10 lakh units.On a consolidated basis FY26 PAT jumped 47% YoY to Rs 10,744 crore while revenue recorded a 23% uptick at Rs 62,905 crore.

(Disclaimer: The recommendations, suggestions, views, and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times.)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Travis Kelce has given fans a rare, heartfelt glimpse into his excitement for his upcoming wedding to Taylor Swift, declaring “I can’t wait” during a lighthearted conversation on the latest episode of his “New Heights” podcast. The Kansas City Chiefs tight end’s comments, made Tuesday while hosting golf superstar Rory McIlroy, have ignited fresh speculation about the couple’s long-awaited nuptials.

Kelce, 36, and Swift, 36, announced their engagement in August 2025 after nearly two years of dating. The power couple, who first sparked romance rumors in September 2023 when Swift attended a Chiefs game, have kept wedding details tightly under wraps while continuing to support each other’s high-profile careers.

On the May 6 episode of “New Heights,” co-hosted with his brother Jason Kelce, McIlroy described the surreal feeling of seeing loved ones gathered at a wedding. The golfer, married since 2017, painted an emotional picture of the moment. Kelce, grinning, responded simply: “I can’t wait.” The exchange quickly went viral, with clips circulating widely on social media by Wednesday morning.

A Private Romance in the Spotlight

Kelce and Swift’s relationship has captivated the public since its early days. Their first public appearance came at a Chiefs game in Kansas City, followed by Swift’s high-profile attendance at Super Bowl LVIII in February 2024. The couple has balanced privacy with occasional public displays of affection, from European getaways to red carpet moments.

The engagement announcement last summer came as a surprise to many, though insiders had hinted at a serious future. Sources close to the couple say planning has been deliberate, with both prioritizing careers — Swift wrapping up aspects of her “The Tortured Poets Department” era and Kelce focusing on another potential NFL season.

While no official date or venue has been confirmed, rumors have swirled around a possible summer 2026 celebration. Speculation previously centered on June 13 in Rhode Island near Swift’s Watch Hill property, though those reports were later debunked by a wedding planner. Other whispers point to July or a more private setting, potentially with multiple events to accommodate security and guest lists.

What Travis Is Most Excited For

Kelce’s podcast remark focused on the gathering of family and friends — a sentiment McIlroy echoed from his own wedding. “It’s like wild,” the golfer said of seeing childhood friends and loved ones in one room. Kelce’s enthusiastic reply suggests the emotional core of the day matters most to him amid the inevitable celebrity spectacle.

Insiders say the couple envisions an intimate yet glamorous affair with around 150 guests, blending Swift’s music industry circle, Kelce’s NFL teammates and family. Patrick Mahomes and other Chiefs players are expected, along with Swift’s close friends from her “girl squad.” Rumors of high-profile performers and custom details have fueled excitement, though nothing is confirmed.

Kelce has previously opened up emotionally about proposing, telling listeners he can’t wait to spend the rest of his life with Swift. His protective nature toward their relationship has been evident, often shutting down invasive questions while sharing just enough to delight fans.

Family and Brotherly Support

Jason Kelce and his wife Kylie have played key roles in keeping the couple grounded. Kylie has gently deflected persistent wedding questions on the podcast, emphasizing privacy. The brothers’ dynamic remains a fan favorite, with “New Heights” frequently touching on personal milestones.

Kelce’s family, including parents Ed and Donna Kelce, have warmly embraced Swift. Donna’s social media posts and public appearances with the couple highlight the tight-knit bond. Swift, whose own family includes parents Scott and Andrea Swift and brother Austin, is said to value the Kelces’ Midwestern warmth.

Career Balance and Future Plans

Kelce signed a new contract with the Chiefs earlier in 2026, signaling he is not ready to retire. Training camp begins in late July, which could influence wedding timing if the couple aims to marry beforehand. Swift continues creating music and has upcoming commitments that require careful scheduling.

Sources indicate the couple is taking planning one step at a time. Pre-wedding celebrations may include Kelce’s rumored Bahamas bachelor trip with friends and Mahomes in late May, while Swift envisions a low-key bachelorette gathering.

Security remains a major consideration given their combined fame. Insiders suggest possible dual events — a private ceremony followed by a larger reception — to manage logistics and fan attention.

Cultural Impact of the Power Couple

Kelce and Swift’s union represents a rare intersection of NFL stardom and global pop dominance. Their relationship has boosted NFL viewership, inspired fashion trends and sparked countless memes. A wedding would likely become one of the most documented celebrity events in recent history, even if kept relatively private.

Fans have flooded social media with well-wishes following Kelce’s comments. Many expressed joy at seeing the couple’s genuine happiness after years of speculation. “Travis saying ‘I can’t wait’ is everything,” one fan posted. Others speculated on potential surprise musical performances or Chiefs-themed details.

Looking Ahead

As summer 2026 approaches, anticipation continues to build. Whether the wedding happens in June, July or later, Kelce’s podcast slip has reassured fans that excitement is high on both sides. The couple’s ability to maintain normalcy amid intense scrutiny speaks to the strength of their bond.

For now, Travis Kelce is focused on the joy of the moment — surrounded by loved ones, celebrating a future with the woman he calls his partner for life. In a world of constant spotlight, his simple “I can’t wait” feels refreshingly sincere.

The couple has not commented further on timelines, and representatives for both declined additional details. Fans will likely continue parsing every podcast clip and public appearance for more hints as the big day draws closer.

One thing is clear: when Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift finally say “I do,” it will be a celebration years in the making — and one the world won’t soon forget.

NEW YORK — Tesla Inc. shares climbed more than 2.4% on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, closing at $398.73 and extending a rebound from recent lows as investors increasingly focus on the electric vehicle maker’s long-term bets on artificial intelligence, autonomous driving and humanoid robotics despite near-term pressures on its core auto business.

The stock rose $9.36 on solid volume, trading as high as $401.68 intraday before settling near the psychologically important $400 level. After-hours trading saw a modest pullback to around $397. Tesla’s market capitalization now hovers near $1.5 trillion, reflecting renewed optimism around CEO Elon Musk’s vision even as traditional vehicle sales face headwinds.

The move comes roughly two weeks after Tesla’s first-quarter earnings, which showed resilience in margins and free cash flow but also highlighted aggressive capital spending plans exceeding $25 billion for the year to fuel future growth initiatives.

Q1 Results: Margin Strength Amid Auto Challenges

Tesla reported adjusted earnings per share of 41 cents in Q1, beating expectations of around 37 cents, while revenue came in slightly below forecasts at roughly $22.4 billion. Automotive margins improved thanks to cost-cutting measures and a rebound in demand in certain markets, though overall vehicle deliveries rose only modestly year-over-year.

Energy storage deployments reached a record 8.8 GWh, providing a bright spot as the Megapack business continues scaling. Free cash flow turned positive at $1.4 billion, a significant swing from prior expectations of cash burn.

Musk used the earnings call to emphasize heavy investments in AI infrastructure, next-generation vehicles like the Cybercab robotaxi, and Optimus humanoid robots. He described 2026 as a pivotal year for these “transformative” technologies, even as he acknowledged competitive pressures in the EV market.

Wall Street Views and Valuation Debate

Analysts remain divided. Some see Tesla trading at premium multiples justified only by success in robotaxis and robotics, while others warn of execution risks and slowing growth in the core business. Consensus price targets cluster around the mid-$300s to low $400s, though bullish voices call for significantly higher levels if milestones are met.

The stock is up roughly 39% over the past 12 months but remains volatile in 2026, having traded in a wide range between about $271 and nearly $499. Wednesday’s gain helped it recover some ground after earlier softness.

Key Growth Drivers on the Horizon

Investors are closely watching several upcoming catalysts:

• Robotaxi and Full Self-Driving: Progress on unsupervised FSD continues, with regulatory approvals in additional markets. Musk has reiterated ambitions for a dedicated robotaxi platform, potentially unlocking massive new revenue streams through ride-hailing.
• Optimus Humanoid Robots: Tesla aims to accelerate development of its general-purpose robot, with demonstrations and early deployments expected to build excitement. Optimism around physical AI has helped support the stock’s valuation.
• Energy Business Expansion: Megapack production ramps and growing utility-scale deployments position Tesla as a leader in renewable energy storage, a segment with strong margins and recurring revenue potential.
• New Vehicle Platforms: Affordable models and refreshed lineups could help counter slowing demand for higher-priced EVs amid competition from Chinese manufacturers and traditional automakers.

Risks and Challenges Remain

Tesla faces intensifying competition, particularly in China and Europe, where local EV makers have gained share. Regulatory scrutiny over autonomous driving technology persists, and macroeconomic factors like interest rates continue to influence vehicle affordability.

Heavy capital expenditures could pressure near-term cash flows if returns on AI and robotics investments take longer than expected. Some analysts, including those at JPMorgan earlier in the year, have expressed caution about further downside if growth narratives falter.

Broader Market Context

Tesla’s performance influences the wider EV and technology sectors. Its gains on Wednesday contributed to strength in related stocks, while broader market sentiment remains sensitive to interest rate expectations and geopolitical developments affecting supply chains.

Retail investors continue to show strong interest in Tesla, with the stock a staple on platforms like Robinhood and frequent topic on social media. Options activity reflects heightened speculation around upcoming milestones.

Outlook for the Rest of 2026

As summer approaches, attention turns to Q2 delivery numbers, expected in early July, and further updates on robotaxi timelines. Musk has signaled confidence in achieving meaningful progress on multiple fronts this year, potentially setting the stage for a re-rating of the stock if milestones are hit.

For long-term believers, Tesla represents a bet on the convergence of electric vehicles, software, energy and artificial intelligence. Skeptics view the current valuation as demanding perfection in execution across several unproven areas.

Wednesday’s advance to near $400 underscores the market’s willingness to look past current challenges toward a future where Tesla’s technology ambitions could redefine multiple industries. Whether the stock can sustain momentum will depend on tangible progress in the coming quarters and Musk’s ability to deliver on ambitious promises.

As trading continues in a volatile 2026 environment, Tesla remains one of the most watched and debated stocks on Wall Street — a bellwether for innovation that continues to captivate investors worldwide.

The Deputy Transport Minister indicates that global uncertainties are impacting exports and imports. In response, the government is planning measures to address these challenges.

---

Deputy Transport Minister Clarifies Land Bridge Project

Deputy Transport Minister Alex Collins recently addressed concerns about the proposed Land Bridge project, designed to streamline transportation between key economic regions. Speaking at a press conference, Collins emphasized the project’s role in reducing congestion and boosting trade efficiency, which aligns with the country’s long-term infrastructure goals.

Collins clarified that extensive environmental assessments will be conducted to minimize ecological impact. “Sustainability is at the forefront of our planning,” he assured. The minister highlighted that consultations with environmental experts and local communities are paramount to ensure the project meets ecological standards and benefits all stakeholders.

Moreover, Collins addressed funding concerns, confirming that the project would leverage a mix of public and private investments. Transparency in financial operations and accountability will be maintained, he added, promising regular updates to keep the public informed about the project’s progress and challenges.

source

Other People are Reading

Why Vickie DeHart’s Experience Matters in Cities Like London

London is a city constantly rebuilding itself. Old spaces become new housing. Retail districts evolve. Infrastructure expands. Behind every project is the same challenge: coordinating people, ideas, and execution under pressure.

That is why the career of Vickie DeHart, a construction and real estate leader based in Las Vegas, has lessons that resonate far beyond the United States. Cities like London rely on professionals who can move projects from concept to completion while managing complexity.

DeHart has spent decades doing exactly that. Her work has focused on aligning finance, planning, and on-site execution. Those are the same pressures developers and builders face in London today. “Big ideas only work if they’re grounded in execution,” she says. “You can have a great plan, but it only matters if it actually gets built.”

Her perspective is practical. Construction is not theoretical. It is about making decisions that affect people, timelines, and communities.

“There’s no hiding in construction,” DeHart explains. “Either it works or it doesn’t.”

Early Life and the Foundations of Responsibility

Vickie DeHart

grew up in Jacksonville, Florida, alongside her two brothers. Her family environment was simple and disciplined. Responsibility was expected, not negotiated.

“If something needed to be done, you stepped in and did it,” she says.

That mindset carried into adulthood. After graduating from Western High School in Las Vegas in 1979, DeHart entered the workforce and gradually found herself drawn to construction and development.

What attracted her was the clarity of the industry. Progress is visible. Problems cannot be ignored.

“I liked that you could see the results of your work,” she explains. “A building either stands the way it should or it doesn’t.”

Becoming One of Nevada’s Early Female General Contractors

One of the defining chapters of DeHart’s career began at Powerhouse Construction, where she served as Principal and Vice President for five years.

The company specialised in framing apartments and condominiums, as well as renovations and tenant improvements for commercial retail spaces.

During this time, DeHart carried the company’s general contractor’s licence. That distinction made her one of the first women in Nevada to hold such responsibility.

She rarely presents this as a personal milestone.

“I didn’t think about being first,” she says. “I thought about the responsibility. When you carry the licence, the outcome sits with you.”

That mindset shaped her leadership approach. Accountability mattered more than recognition.

Lessons from the Job Site

Construction projects are rarely smooth. Delays, miscommunication, and shifting priorities are common.

One early Powerhouse project illustrated this clearly. A project began slipping behind schedule because suppliers and site teams were not aligned.

Instead of assigning blame, DeHart focused on the system.

“We added daily check-ins,” she recalls. “Even for smaller jobs. It was simple, but it fixed the communication gap.”

The experience reinforced a principle she still believes today.

“Most problems aren’t caused by lack of effort,” she says. “They come from unclear expectations.”

Building EHB: Integrating Planning and Execution

Later in her career, DeHart co-founded EHB alongside Yohan Lowie and her husband, Paul DeHart.

The idea behind the company was straightforward: reduce fragmentation in development projects.

Too often, planning, finance, and construction operate separately. EHB aimed to connect those functions more closely.

“At EHB we wanted fewer hand-offs,” she explains. “When everyone understands the same goal, projects move faster.”

Her role covers a wide range of responsibilities. She works closely with the CEO on strategy and operations. Her daily work includes financial oversight, insurance, escrow coordination, and collaboration with engineers, architects, and local building departments.

She also manages leasing and rental properties and works directly with clients during interior selections and home closings.

“One moment I’m reviewing financial details,” she says. “The next I’m walking through a property with a client. That balance keeps decisions realistic.”

Leadership Through Clarity and Presence

DeHart’s leadership style is calm and practical. She does not rely on pressure or hierarchy.

“I don’t believe in pressure-led leadership,” she says. “I believe in clarity.”

That philosophy influences how she works with teams. Rather than issuing constant instructions, she focuses on clear expectations and follow-through.

She also believes strongly in being physically present.

“You learn more by walking a site than reading ten reports,” she says. “Problems look different when you see them up close.”

In industries like construction, where decisions affect large budgets and tight schedules, that presence matters.

Wellness, Focus, and Long-Term Perspective

Outside work, DeHart prioritises wellness and time outdoors. Hiking and walking are regular parts of her routine.

The habit began as a personal choice but became an important leadership tool.

“When I step outside, my thinking becomes clearer,” she says. “Solutions often show up when you stop staring at the problem.”

Construction and development bring constant pressure. Physical activity helps her maintain perspective.

“If you don’t take care of your health,” she adds, “decision-making eventually suffers.”

A Career Built on Practical Ideas

Looking back, DeHart does not measure success through titles or recognition. Instead, she focuses on execution.

Projects delivered on time. Teams that communicate clearly. Processes that work better than before.

Her view of leadership remains simple.

“Buildings last,” she says. “But so do reputations.”

For cities like London — where development shapes neighbourhoods and communities — that principle carries weight. The best ideas are not the loudest ones.

They are the ones that get built.