Business
EasyJet rejects takeover offer from US investment firm Castlelake
EasyJet has rejected a fourth takeover offer worth £4.93bn from Castlelake.
The low-cost Luton-based airline said the US investment firm’s bid was worth £6.50 a share, compared with the previous offers of £5.60, £6 and £6.25 a share.
A spokesperson said it was giving Castlelake until 17:00 BST on 5 July to make a firm offer or walk away.
“Having carefully reviewed it with its advisers, the board of EasyJet continues to regard the fourth proposal as substantially undervaluing the company and its prospects and continuing to give rise to significant questions of deliverability,” said EasyJet.
EasyJet said the takeover interest came at a time when its share price had been pushed down by concerns about the consequences of the Iran war.
The FTSE 250 firm’s shares had dropped by about 30% over the past year, before news of Castlelake’s interest.
EasyJet said it remained “concerned” about Castlelake’s ownership structure and ability to deliver any offer, adding the investor would need to provide “satisfactory assurances and commitments” on those issues.
Castlelake has assets under management worth $36bn (£27.3bn).
Under the deal, EasyJet would be 49% owned by Castlelake and co-investors including Brookfield Asset Management, and 51% owned by individual European Union investors.
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Business
Bio-Techne Shares Surge 19 Percent as Life Sciences Tools Provider Gains Momentum
Bio-Techne Corporation shares jumped more than 19 percent on Thursday, reaching $70.31 as investors responded to positive developments around the company’s life sciences tools and diagnostics businesses.
The significant gain reflected renewed confidence in Bio-Techne’s position within the biotechnology research and clinical diagnostics markets. The company provides essential reagents, instruments and assays used by researchers and clinicians worldwide.
Bio-Techne has reported steady performance despite challenges in the broader life sciences sector, including funding pressures for academic research and cautious spending by pharmaceutical companies. Its diversified portfolio spanning protein sciences, diagnostics and genomics has provided stability.
The company’s focus on innovation, quality and customer relationships has sustained demand for its products. Recent product launches and strategic initiatives have generated interest among analysts and investors.
Business Overview and Performance
Bio-Techne operates through Protein Sciences and Diagnostics and Genomics segments. The Protein Sciences division offers antibodies, proteins, immunoassays and other research tools.
The Diagnostics and Genomics segment provides clinical laboratory products, spatial biology solutions and genomic testing services. This diversification helps mitigate risks associated with any single market or customer type.
The company has maintained consistent revenue growth through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions. Its global distribution network and reputation for quality support market leadership in multiple product categories.
Bio-Techne’s financial results have demonstrated resilience amid industry headwinds. Management has emphasized operational efficiency and portfolio optimization while investing in growth areas.
Market Environment
The life sciences tools and diagnostics industry faces cyclical pressures from research funding, pharmaceutical R&D spending and healthcare budgets. Bio-Techne’s essential products provide some insulation from these fluctuations.
Academic and government research funding remains crucial for many customers. Private sector investment in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development drives additional demand.
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated certain segments while creating supply chain challenges. Post-pandemic normalization has required adaptation to changing demand patterns.
Technological advances in genomics, proteomics and spatial biology create opportunities for innovative product providers. Bio-Techne’s investments in these areas position it for growth.
Strategic Initiatives
Bio-Techne continues expanding its product portfolio through internal development and acquisitions. Recent moves have strengthened capabilities in high-growth areas like spatial transcriptomics and advanced immunoassays.
The company’s focus on automation and workflow solutions addresses customer needs for increased efficiency and reproducibility. These offerings appeal to both research and clinical laboratories.
Sustainability initiatives and responsible sourcing practices align with growing stakeholder expectations. Bio-Techne’s commitment to quality and ethical practices supports long-term customer relationships.
Digital transformation efforts enhance customer experience and operational efficiency. Online platforms and data analytics capabilities improve accessibility and support for users.
Investment Considerations
Bio-Techne’s recent share price surge reflects positive market sentiment around its fundamentals and growth prospects. The company’s valuation has adjusted to account for its market position and pipeline.
The stock appeals to investors seeking exposure to life sciences innovation and research tools. Its diversified business model and consistent performance provide defensive characteristics.
Risks include funding pressures in academic research, competition from larger players and potential slowdowns in pharmaceutical R&D spending. Bio-Techne’s ability to innovate and maintain quality will influence long-term success.
Analysts generally maintain constructive outlooks, citing the company’s technology leadership and market opportunities. However, patience may be required as the sector navigates cyclical challenges.
Industry Trends
The life sciences tools market continues evolving with advances in single-cell analysis, spatial biology and multi-omics approaches. Companies providing enabling technologies benefit from these scientific developments.
Clinical diagnostics demand grows with aging populations and personalized medicine trends. Bio-Techne’s products support both research and clinical applications.
Automation and artificial intelligence integration transform laboratory workflows. Providers offering compatible solutions gain competitive advantages.
Sustainability considerations influence purchasing decisions across the industry. Companies demonstrating environmental responsibility may attract preference from research institutions and corporate customers.
Future Outlook
Bio-Techne’s strategic direction focuses on leveraging its technology platform while expanding into adjacent markets. Successful execution could drive sustained growth and margin improvement.
The company continues investing in research and development to maintain innovation leadership. Its ability to translate scientific advances into commercial products will influence future performance.
Investors will monitor upcoming financial results for progress on key metrics including organic growth and margin trends. Management guidance will provide insight into execution priorities.
The recent share price movement suggests renewed market interest in Bio-Techne’s story. The company’s fundamental strengths and market opportunities support potential for continued positive sentiment.
As life sciences research advances, Bio-Techne’s essential tools and technologies will likely remain in demand. Its ability to adapt to evolving customer needs while delivering consistent results positions it favorably in the industry.
Business
Potential JPMorgan CEO successors named as top executive retires
Check out what’s clicking on FoxBusiness.com.
The race to succeed America’s top banker is on.
Sources inside JPMorgan Chase, the nation’s top bank, say the elevation of two senior executives Doug Petno and Troy Rohrbaugh as co-presidents of the company, sets up a long-awaited horse race to succeed the voluble Jamie Dimon, its CEO for the past two-plus decades and widely regarded as the nation’s top banker.
As if to leave no doubt about his intentions, Dimon Thursday also announced that Marianne Lake, one of the highest-ranking women on Wall Street who had been seen as a frontrunner to succeed Dimon, “has decided to retire” from the bank.
Lake, a longtime executive who was head of the firm’s powerful consumer and community banking division, is said to be “not too happy” about being passed over for the top job. One indication was the absence of a statement from Lake in the press release, said people close to the bank. A JPM spokesperson had no immediate comment.

JPMorgan Chase’s new global headquarters at 270 Park Ave. in New York City. (JPMorgan Chase / Fox News)
Jenn Piepszak, JPM’s chief operating officer, is also no longer considered a possible replacement for Dimon, people inside the bank say. Also out of the running is Mary Erdoes, the head of JPM’s asset management and wealth management business, On The Money has learned.
“The changes announced today mark an important step in our board’s thoughtful process around succession planning and development of our top leaders,” Dimon said in a press release. “We are fortunate to have in place an exceptional group of senior leaders, not only at our operating committee level but across our organization.”
DOJ PROBES JPMORGAN, CITIGROUP TRANSACTIONS TIED TO IRAN SUPREME LEADER’S BUSINESS NETWORK

Jamie Dimon, chief executive officer of JPMorgan Chase & Co., during the 2026 Reagan National Economic Forum on Friday, May 29, 2026. (Caroline Brehman/Bloomberg via Getty Images / Getty Images)
Petno and Rohrbaugh had jointly run the firm’s powerful consumer and investment bank, and were considered top contenders to replace Dimon when he is expected to begin transitioning out of his role as CEO as early as this year, though he has always been obtuse about the timing of his decision and has left open the possibility to remain as chairman indefinitely.
Stocks In This Article:
That said, inside JPM headquarters in Midtown Manhattan, there was nothing obtuse about the elevation of Petno and Rohrbaugh. Dimon created the co-president position precisely to set up a horse race between the two to take over as CEO sometime soon, these people say.

Marquee at the main entrance to the JPMorgan Chase Headquarters Building in Manhattan. (Erik McGregor/LightRocket via Getty Images / Getty Images)
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Both will have big shoes to fill. Since taking over as CEO of JPM in 2006, Dimon has emerged as the most important banker in the country and maybe its most important CEO. JPM is a sprawling “systemically important” institution that does everything from consumer lending to mergers and acquisitions to trading complex derivatives that are the plumbing of the global financial system.
He has successfully led the big bank through financial crises, small and large, such as the 2008 implosion and jostled with presidents from Barack Obama to Donald Trump over economic and banking policy. He is known for his shoot-from-the-hip public presence, and for his management acumen. JPM has been highly profitable and largely free of scandal during his reign.
Business
Japan and Sweden Battle for Group F Survival in Decisive World Cup Clash in Arlington
ARLINGTON, Texas — Japan and Sweden meet at Dallas Stadium fighting for a place in the World Cup knockout rounds, with both nations facing dramatically different paths into Thursday’s decisive Group F showdown.
Where the Group Stands
Japan and the Netherlands are currently tied in Group F with four points each, with the Dutch holding the tiebreaker on goals. But Sweden is right on their heels with three points. The winner of Thursday’s Japan vs. Sweden match will likely advance, while the loser is going home.
What’s at Stake for Each Team
A historic victory for Graham Potter’s side would catapult the Swedes to six points, instantly securing automatic qualification for the round of 32. Depending on the concurrent outcome of the Netherlands vs. Tunisia fixture, a win could potentially vault Sweden into a top-two finish, completely eliminating any reliance on wild-card scenarios. Conversely, this outcome would freeze Japan on four points, forcing the Samurai Blue to sweat on the parallel result or hope to advance as one of the best third-placed wild cards. Should Hajime Moriyasu’s men secure all three points, it would complete an undefeated group stage campaign for the Asian heavyweights and leave Sweden in a highly precarious position.
Japan’s Path to This Moment
Japan made history against Tunisia in Monterrey, winning 4-0 to become the first country representing the Asian Football Confederation to score four goals in a single World Cup game. Daichi Kamada needed only four minutes to convert essentially Japan’s first attack when he turned in Keito Nakamura’s endline cross at close range.
That result followed a dramatic comeback in their opener. In a thrilling Group F opener in Arlington on June 14, Japan denied the Netherlands a win with a last-minute equalizer — Koki Ogawa’s corner deflected off Daichi Kamada and past Bart Verbruggen in the 89th minute to secure a 2-2 draw. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk broke the deadlock in the 51st minute; Keito Nakamura pulled Japan level six minutes later, and Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch advantage, but Japan refused to slow down.
Sweden’s Rollercoaster Group Stage
Sweden’s campaign has swung dramatically between two extremes. Sweden became the first team to win their first game by four goals and then lose their second by four goals since Sweden in 1938. Fresh off a 5-1 win of their own over Tunisia, Sweden were on the receiving end of the same scoreline at the hands of the Netherlands. Brian Brobbey scored a first-half brace inside the first 20 minutes, dispatching two close-range efforts in the fifth and seventeenth minute — the fourth-fastest brace in World Cup history. The fixture was Sweden’s worst defeat at the World Cup since being thrashed 7-1 by Brazil in 1950.
Team News for Japan
Takefusa Kubo remains a major doubt for this crucial encounter due to a lingering knee injury. The Real Sociedad attacker sustained the issue during their draw against the Netherlands. Shuto Machino has also struggled with illness and is yet to feature on the pitch. In his absence, Hajime Moriyasu will likely retain the rest of his high-flying starting eleven tonight.
Team News for Sweden
Graham Potter faces tough personnel decisions following their defensive collapse against the clinical Dutch side. Anthony Elanga could earn a starting role at right wing-back after scoring a fine consolation goal. Youngster Lucas Bergvall pushes hard to replace Celtic midfielder Benjamin Nygren to provide extra defensive steel. Star attackers Viktor Gyökeres and Alexander Isak will continue their blooming partnership up front.
A Key Tactical Battle in Midfield
The absolute heartbeat and dynamic engine of the Japanese midfield on Matchday 2, Daichi Kamada is tasked with dictating the possession rhythm and unlocking opposition lines for the Samurai Blue. Kamada operated masterfully in the heart of the midfield against Tunisia, breaking forward to provide a vital creative spark and getting himself on the scoresheet. Looking to disrupt that fluid creative rhythm is Sweden’s standout midfielder Jesper Karlström, who anchored the engine room on Matchday 2, attempting to provide tactical protection during a difficult outing against the Netherlands.
Predicted Lineups
Japan’s predicted starting eleven: Z. Suzuki; Tomiyasu, Itakura, H. Itō; Dōan, Sano, Tanaka, Nakamura; Itō, Kamada; Ueda.
Sweden’s predicted starting eleven: Nordfeldt; Lagerbielke, Hien, Lindelöf; Elanga, Bergvall, Karlström, Ayari, Gudmundsson; Gyökeres, Isak.
A Notable Tournament Milestone
Beyond the immediate group stakes, Thursday’s fixture also carries a piece of World Cup history. The teams have previously met six times, including Japan’s 2-0 group stage victory at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, which they co-hosted with South Korea. Their latest meeting took place in the 2023 Kirin Challenge Cup, which Japan also won by 2-0. This fixture was the 1,000th World Cup match, with the previous milestone of 900 having been reached at the 2018 FIFA World Cup final.
Match Details and How to Watch
The match kicks off at 6 p.m. local time at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, with referee Iván Barton of El Salvador in charge. In the United Kingdom, the match will be broadcast live on BBC Two, BBC iPlayer, and the BBC Sport website, with kickoff at midnight BST heading into Friday.
What’s Ahead for the Group Winner
The winner of Group F will advance to play the runner-up of Group C, Morocco, while the runner-up of Group F will advance to play the winner of Group C, Brazil. With Tunisia having already lost their match and been eliminated, becoming the third team eliminated from the tournament following Haiti and Türkiye, Thursday’s result will determine the final shape of one of the tournament’s most competitive groups.
With Japan needing only a draw to guarantee their place in the knockout stage and Sweden requiring a win to keep their own qualification hopes fully in their own hands, Thursday’s match at Dallas Stadium carries genuinely high stakes for both nations. A Japan victory or draw would complete one of the more memorable group-stage campaigns of the tournament for the Samurai Blue, while a Sweden win would erase the memory of their lopsided defeat to the Netherlands and set up a potential top-two finish in the group, depending on how the simultaneous Netherlands-Tunisia fixture unfolds.
Business
Horizon Kinetics buys $374 in Texas Pacific land stock

Horizon Kinetics buys $374 in Texas Pacific land stock
Business
Forget Everything You Knew About Micron Before (NASDAQ:MU)
I write about stocks I’m personally interested in adding to my portfolio. I’m not a professional advisor, but I study business and economics and analyze markets full-time. My writing is meant for both complete beginners — I avoid unnecessary complexity — and advanced readers, as I always aim to offer a distinct and well-reasoned perspective.I also run a YouTube Channel called “The Market Monkeys” and break some of the stocks there as well.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have a beneficial long position in the shares of MU 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.
Business
Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. (BNED) Analyst/Investor Day – Slideshow
Barnes & Noble Education, Inc. (BNED) Analyst/Investor Day – Slideshow
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Teradata's Value Appeal Over Snowflake Since AI Is Not Cheap
Teradata's Value Appeal Over Snowflake Since AI Is Not Cheap
Business
Materion Corp stock hits all-time high at 282.78 USD

Materion Corp stock hits all-time high at 282.78 USD
Business
Tencent Music: Recent Strategic Moves Are Reshaping The Investment Case (NYSE:TME)
Long only, focused on high quality businesses with economic moats and solid business fundamentals. Sector and geography agnostic. Long term investment horizon. None of the articles constitute investment advice.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, but may initiate a beneficial Long position through a purchase of the stock, or the purchase of call options or similar derivatives in TME over 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.
Not investment advice.
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.
Business
Xanadu Quantum Technologies Shares Rise as Company Advances Photonic Quantum Computing Research
TORONTO — Shares of Xanadu Quantum Technologies Inc. gained more than 1 percent on Thursday, closing at $11.68 after adding $0.12, as investors responded to the company’s progress in developing photonic quantum computing systems.
The Canadian company has emerged as a leader in the race to build practical quantum computers using light-based technology. Its approach differs from competitors focusing on superconducting or trapped-ion methods, potentially offering advantages in scalability and room-temperature operation.
Xanadu’s platform leverages photonic qubits that can be manipulated with standard optical components. This method could enable more stable quantum systems less susceptible to environmental noise and easier to network.
The company has secured significant funding and partnerships to advance its technology toward fault-tolerant quantum computing. Its Borealis system previously demonstrated quantum computational advantage, marking an important milestone in the field.
Technological Approach
Xanadu’s photonic quantum computing relies on generating, manipulating and measuring single photons. The company has developed proprietary techniques for creating entangled photon states necessary for quantum algorithms.
Its Strawberry Fields software platform allows researchers to program quantum circuits using familiar Python interfaces. This accessibility has helped attract talent and foster collaboration with academic and industry partners.
The company continues investing in hardware development, including improved photon sources, detectors and integrated photonic chips. These advancements aim to increase qubit counts and reduce error rates.
Partnerships with major technology companies and research institutions have accelerated progress. Collaborative projects explore potential applications in drug discovery, materials science and optimization problems.
Market Position and Competition
The quantum computing sector has attracted substantial investment from governments and private companies. Xanadu competes with established players including IBM, Google, IonQ and Rigetti while pursuing its unique photonic approach.
Advantages of photonics include potential for room-temperature operation and easier integration with existing optical communication infrastructure. These characteristics could facilitate scaling to larger systems.
Challenges remain in creating high-quality photon sources and efficient detectors. Xanadu’s progress in addressing these technical hurdles has drawn attention from the scientific community.
The company’s focus on error-corrected quantum computing aligns with industry goals of achieving practical quantum advantage. Its timeline for delivering useful applications will influence competitive positioning.
Broader Quantum Computing Landscape
Quantum computing promises to solve certain problems exponentially faster than classical computers. Potential applications span cryptography, pharmaceutical development, financial modeling and climate simulation.
Significant technical obstacles remain before large-scale, fault-tolerant systems become reality. Error rates, qubit connectivity and decoherence continue challenging researchers.
Government funding programs worldwide support quantum technology development. Canada has invested substantially in quantum research, providing a supportive environment for companies like Xanadu.
Private investment has also surged as companies seek competitive advantages through quantum capabilities. The sector’s growth reflects both excitement about potential breakthroughs and recognition of long development timelines.
Investment Considerations
Xanadu’s shares trade on NASDAQ following its public listing. The company’s valuation reflects expectations for quantum computing market growth and its technological differentiation.
Risks include technical development challenges, competition from better-funded rivals and long timelines to commercial revenue. Quantum computing remains an emerging field with uncertain commercialization schedules.
Longer-term opportunities are substantial if Xanadu achieves its technical milestones. Successful development of practical quantum computers could create enormous value across multiple industries.
Investors should consider the speculative nature of early-stage quantum technology companies. Xanadu’s progress will be measured against both internal goals and industry benchmarks.
Company Leadership and Culture
Xanadu was founded by researchers with deep expertise in quantum optics and photonics. The company’s leadership emphasizes scientific rigor and collaborative innovation.
Its Toronto headquarters and research facilities provide access to talent from leading Canadian universities. The company has grown rapidly while maintaining focus on fundamental research questions.
Corporate culture encourages curiosity and cross-disciplinary collaboration. This approach supports the complex problem-solving required for quantum technology development.
Future Outlook
Xanadu continues advancing its hardware and software platforms. Upcoming technical milestones could significantly impact its valuation and competitive position.
The company’s ability to attract talent, secure partnerships and demonstrate progress will influence its trajectory. Quantum computing development requires patience and sustained investment.
Industry observers expect continued growth in quantum technology investment and research activity. Xanadu’s photonic approach offers a distinct pathway that could prove advantageous as the field matures.
As quantum computing moves from laboratory demonstrations toward practical applications, companies like Xanadu will play important roles in realizing its potential. Their success could transform multiple industries and scientific disciplines.
The company’s recent share price movement reflects typical market dynamics in an emerging technology sector. Xanadu’s fundamental progress and strategic direction suggest potential for long-term impact in quantum computing.
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