Business
Erika Kirk Denies Blake Wynn Romance Rumors Amid Online Scandal Allegations
LOS ANGELES — Erika Kirk has firmly rejected claims of a romantic relationship with businessman Blake Wynn, addressing viral speculation that emerged shortly after the death of her husband, conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The widow pushed back against unverified allegations linking her to a so-called “billionaire scandal,” emphasizing her focus on grieving and family.
The controversy gained traction on social media after a video commentator accused Kirk of concealing aspects of her personal life. Project Constitution and other accounts amplified claims that Kirk and Wynn were seen together in Beverly Hills on May 14. Kirk responded directly on X, stating, “Every single word here is a lie.”
She further clarified her position, writing that she was not in Beverly Hills on that date but instead at home in Arizona celebrating her son’s birthday. “Charlie’s love will last me a lifetime. The Lord is the only one who can ever fill that most painful void,” Kirk added, underscoring her ongoing mourning process less than a year after her husband’s death.
Wynn also denied any romantic involvement. “I am not dating Erika Kirk,” he stated, describing the claims as baseless and accusing those spreading them of relying on unreliable sources.
The allegations originated from online videos and posts suggesting intimate encounters and portraying Kirk as intoxicated during an alleged meeting. Commentator Loren Piretra claimed in a widely shared clip that Kirk had been “caught in a billionaire scandal” that could damage her public image as a grieving widow. “This secret Beverly Hills meltdown is going to ruin Erica Kirk because she’s exposed,” Piretra said, according to accounts shared by Project Constitution.
No independent evidence has surfaced to substantiate the specific claims about the May 14 encounter. Kirk described the speculation as a “deranged obsession” and urged those involved to “brush off the Dorito dust and go touch grass.” Wynn dismissed the pressure to provide proof of his whereabouts, calling the demands part of a pattern of unfounded attacks.
Project Constitution challenged both parties to share evidence disproving the story, offering to issue corrections if shown proof. Kirk maintained she was home with family, while Wynn rejected the need to respond further to what he called “garbage” from the account.
The situation highlights the rapid spread of unverified rumors involving public figures on social media platforms. Kirk, who has built a following through conservative commentary and family-oriented content following her husband’s high-profile career, has faced increased scrutiny since his death. Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was a prominent voice in conservative politics until his passing.
Industry observers note that celebrity and political widows often encounter intense public interest in their personal lives, particularly when rumors involve new relationships. Kirk has consistently emphasized faith and family in her public statements, framing her current focus on healing rather than romance.
The claims have drawn mixed reactions online, with some users expressing skepticism toward the unverified videos and others calling for privacy. Footage circulated showing Kirk emotional in a vehicle, but its timing and context remain unconfirmed by independent sources. Commentators questioned the appropriateness of speculating on her behavior given her public statements about faith and personal conduct.
Blake Wynn, a businessman with reported ties to various ventures, has not been a frequent subject of tabloid attention prior to this episode. His denial was direct and concise, rejecting any romantic link and expressing frustration with the narrative.
This episode underscores broader challenges in the digital age, where unverified allegations can gain significant traction before facts emerge. Public figures like Kirk must balance personal privacy with the demands of an always-on media environment. Her response has been viewed by supporters as a firm defense of truth amid what she described as disturbing obsession.
Friends and associates of the Kirk family have largely stayed silent on the matter, focusing instead on legacy projects honoring Charlie Kirk’s work. Erika Kirk has continued sharing messages of faith and resilience, maintaining her public platform while navigating life as a widow and mother.
The speed at which the story spread across X and video platforms demonstrates the power of social media in shaping narratives around celebrities and political families. While some accounts demanded evidence and offered corrections, others amplified the claims without verification, a common pattern in high-profile rumor cycles.
As the situation continues to unfold, Kirk has reiterated her commitment to truth and privacy. She has not pursued legal action publicly but has urged followers to focus on substantive issues rather than personal speculation.
For Wynn, the episode appears to be an unwelcome distraction. His response highlighted the difficulty of disproving negative claims when sources remain anonymous or unreliable.
The broader context involves ongoing public fascination with the personal lives of those connected to prominent conservative figures. Charlie Kirk’s sudden death left a significant void in political circles, and attention has naturally turned to his family’s next chapter.
Erika Kirk’s handling of the rumors reflects a strategy of direct denial combined with appeals to faith and family values. Her statement that “Charlie’s love will last me a lifetime” resonated with supporters who view her as prioritizing legacy over new relationships.
Media ethics experts caution against rushing to judgment on unverified stories, particularly those involving grief and private matters. Responsible reporting requires corroboration, which has been notably absent in many of the circulating claims.
As social media continues to blur lines between public and private spheres, cases like this serve as reminders of the human cost of viral speculation. Kirk has asked for space to grieve and raise her family, a request echoed by those closest to the situation.
The story remains fluid, with potential for further statements or clarifications from those involved. For now, both Kirk and Wynn maintain that the rumored romance is entirely false, urging the public to disregard unproven allegations.
This incident adds another layer to the challenges faced by public figures in the digital era, where personal tragedies and everyday life become subjects of intense online scrutiny. Kirk’s response has been praised by some as measured and faith-centered, while critics question the vehemence of her rebuttal.
Ultimately, the lack of concrete evidence supporting the original claims leaves the narrative in the realm of speculation. As with many celebrity rumors, the truth may lie somewhere between viral headlines and personal denials, but verified facts remain scarce.
Business
ASX explorers grow investment spend
Nearly half of Australia’s listed explorers notched investing outflows in the March quarter, signalling the fastest pace of capital deployment in more than a decade.
Business
BlackRock: Net Flows Strong In Q1, But Overvaluation In Question (NYSE:BLK)
Albert Anthony is the pen name of a business author on Amazon and his newest book is “How To Pick Stocks: 8 Steps For Long-Term Investing with Fundamental & Technical Analysis,” now available as a 2026 edition paperback and Kindle ebook in several regions including the US, UK, Canada, and Europe. The author is an analyst & contributor for investing platform Seeking Alpha since 2023, where he has nearly 2,000 followers and has covered hundreds of stocks in multiple sectors including banks/financials, REITs, insurance, pharma, and more. He has also written for platforms like Investing dot com, and has taken part in many business conferences includes Bloomberg Adria’s Investment Outlook 2026 as well as Money Motion 2026. Albert Anthony has Croatian-American roots, having grown up in the US and living in the NYC/New Jersey area as well as the Austin Texas area while working in enterprise IT roles at several prominent companies, including a top 10 financial firm. The author earned a B.A. from Drew University, and also completed certifications from Microsoft, CompTIA, and Corporate Finance Institute where he earned the specialization in risk management. He is founder of a boutique equities research firm, Albert Anthony & Company, which is a trade name both in the US and Croatia. Besides his writing and analyst work, the author has been active on camera as well, as a film/TV extra for casting agencies in Croatia/Europe, and also took part in roundtable panel discussions and appeared in several media stories in that region. You can also check out the author’s video content on the Albert Anthony channel on YouTube where he discusses investing topics, @author.albertanthony Please note: The author does not write about non-publicly traded companies, small cap stocks, crypto, or startup CEOs, so any such mail received and pitches from PR agencies will be deleted. Any official mail to the author should be sent to albertanthony.info@gmail.com. *Author Disclaimer: Albert Anthony and Albert Anthony & Co, is a US-based sole proprietorship registered as a trade name in Austin, Texas, and a sole proprietor registered in Croatia. The author nor his company are registered financial advisors and do not provide personalized financial advisory services to clients and do not manage client assets but provide general markets commentary and research as well as actionable insights based on publicly-available data and their own analysis. The author does not sell or market financial products and services, nor is compensated by any company for rating them. The author does not hold any material position in any stock he rates at the time of writing, unless otherwise disclosed. All investment is assumed to be at risk and readers are expected to do their due diligence beyond the scope of this author’s commentary, agreeing to indemnify the author of any liability for potential investment losses.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Business
(VIDEO) Justin Bieber Delivers Surprise Happy Birthday Serenade to Diners at Los Angeles Mexican Restaurant
LOS ANGELES — A routine birthday dinner at a Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles turned into an unforgettable experience when pop star Justin Bieber joined a group of strangers in singing “Happy Birthday,” delighting the celebrants and quickly captivating fans online.

The spontaneous moment unfolded at Escuela Taqueria, where Bieber was dining with his wife Hailey Bieber and friends on May 29. Nearby, a group was celebrating Amanda’s birthday when Bieber noticed the festivities and stepped in to make the occasion special.
Footage captured by Karla Saldana, one of the diners, shows Bieber approaching the table and leading the group — and eventually much of the restaurant — in a rendition of the classic birthday song. The video, shared widely on social media, captures the surprise and joy on the faces of those at the table, with the birthday girl appearing stunned by the celebrity encounter.
Saldana later described the scene in interviews. “He and his friends were having fun and it was such a nice surprise,” she said, adding that she was “shocked” but quickly started filming once he began singing. She called it “Such an LA moment” on social media.
The clip has since gone viral, drawing reactions from fans who praised Bieber for his approachable and kind gesture. Many commented on the heartwarming nature of the interaction, highlighting how the 32-year-old singer took time from his own evening to brighten someone else’s celebration.
A Glimpse Into Bieber’s Life in Los Angeles
Bieber, who has called the Los Angeles area home for years, is no stranger to public appearances despite maintaining a relatively private family life with Hailey. The couple welcomed their first child in 2025, and recent sightings have shown Bieber balancing fatherhood, music projects and occasional outings around the city.
This latest encounter fits a pattern for the Canadian-born artist, known for connecting with fans in unexpected ways throughout his career. From early days as a YouTube sensation to global superstardom, Bieber has often shared personal and fan-focused moments that humanize his larger-than-life persona.
The restaurant, Escuela Taqueria, is a popular spot in Los Angeles known for its vibrant atmosphere and authentic Mexican fare. Diners frequent the venue for casual meals, making it an ideal setting for such an organic interaction. On that evening, the energy shifted from a standard birthday gathering to a memorable event as Bieber’s voice joined the chorus, followed by applause from surrounding tables.
Witnesses noted that Bieber appeared relaxed and engaged, smiling and clapping along after the song. Hailey Bieber was also present, adding to the family-oriented feel of the night. The entire episode lasted only a few minutes but left a lasting impression on those involved.
Bieber’s Enduring Connection With Fans
For Bieber, moments like these underscore the relationship he has cultivated with his dedicated fanbase, often referred to as “Beliebers.” Since bursting onto the scene as a teenager with hits like “Baby” and “One Time,” he has navigated the challenges of fame, personal struggles and professional evolution while consistently engaging with supporters.
His discography spans multiple eras, from the dance-pop of “My World” to more mature reflections in albums like “Changes” and “Justice.” Recent years have seen him explore new musical directions, including collaborations and faith-inspired work, while prioritizing health and family.
This restaurant surprise comes amid a period of relative stability for Bieber. After addressing past mental health challenges publicly, he has spoken about the importance of kindness and presence — qualities evident in his willingness to join strangers in song. Fans online drew parallels to similar fan interactions over the years, from impromptu meet-and-greets to charitable gestures.
The video’s rapid spread reflects the power of social media in amplifying wholesome celebrity stories. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok and X buzzed with reposts, with users sharing their own experiences of Bieber’s generosity or expressing envy for the lucky birthday group.
The Broader Context of Celebrity Encounters in LA
Los Angeles, as the entertainment capital, frequently hosts such chance meetings between stars and the public. Restaurants, coffee shops and public spaces become stages for these unscripted moments that bridge the gap between the famous and everyday people. Bieber’s interaction stands out for its simplicity and sincerity — no staged event, no promotional tie-in, just a genuine acknowledgment of a celebration happening nearby.
Experts in celebrity culture note that such acts can significantly boost public perception. In an era where stars often face scrutiny, positive, low-key gestures like this help reinforce Bieber’s image as down-to-earth despite his massive success. Industry observers point to similar instances with other artists that have strengthened fan loyalty and generated organic publicity.
For Amanda and her friends, the night likely became one for the books. Saldana’s decision to record and share the footage has allowed thousands to vicariously enjoy the surprise, turning a private dinner into a shared cultural moment.
Reactions and Lasting Impact
Social media responses have been overwhelmingly positive. Comments range from “This is why we love him” to “What a legend for doing that.” Some fans expressed hopes that the birthday girl received additional recognition or perhaps even a photo with the singer afterward, though details beyond the song remain limited.
Bieber himself has not publicly commented on the incident, consistent with his approach to personal moments. The family has focused on low-profile living in recent times, with occasional glimpses into their world shared thoughtfully.
This event also highlights the role of video in modern storytelling. What once might have been a fleeting memory captured only in recollections is now preserved and disseminated instantly, creating ripples far beyond the restaurant walls. Storyful, a media agency, helped distribute the footage, ensuring wider reach through news outlets.
As summer approaches in Los Angeles, with its bustling social scene and celebrity presence, such stories serve as reminders of the city’s unique blend of glamour and accessibility. For one group of friends, a birthday dinner became legendary thanks to an unexpected musical guest.
Bieber’s career continues to evolve, with rumors of new music and projects always circulating. Yet it’s these human connections that often resonate most deeply with the public, reminding fans that behind the hits and headlines is an artist who still values simple joys.
In the end, the surprise at Escuela Taqueria exemplified the magic that can happen in everyday settings — a reminder that kindness, even in the form of a shared song, can create lasting memories. For Amanda, it was undoubtedly a birthday to remember, courtesy of one of the world’s most recognizable voices.
Business
Opinion: Health changes forget fairness
OPINION: Australians aged over 65 have got a raw deal from budget changes to the private health insurance rebate.
Business
Five Below: Remain Buy Rated As Fundamentals Are Still Very Healthy
Five Below: Remain Buy Rated As Fundamentals Are Still Very Healthy
Business
(VIDEO) Scottie Scheffler Frustrated At Caddie in Opening Round at Memorial LIV Golf’s Match
DUBLIN, Ohio — Scottie Scheffler, the world’s top-ranked golfer and a two-time defending champion at the Memorial Tournament, carded a 1-over 73 in the first round Thursday, leaving him six shots off the lead amid challenging conditions at Muirfield Village Golf Club.
The performance, marked by visible frustration on the course, comes as the broader professional golf landscape grapples with uncertainty. Reports indicate that LIV Golf, the Saudi-backed circuit that disrupted the sport for years, is facing potential collapse at the end of the 2026 season, raising questions about the future integration of its players and the PGA Tour’s ability to absorb them without major disruptions.
Scheffler’s round started promisingly but unraveled on the back nine, highlighting the fine margins at Jack Nicklaus’ demanding layout. The world No. 1, seeking a historic third consecutive victory at the event, finished the front nine at 2 under but bogeyed the 10th and 14th holes before encountering major trouble at the par-3 16th.
His tee shot on the 16th came up short and found the water, leading to a double bogey. Cameras captured Scheffler, typically known for his composure, expressing clear agitation toward longtime caddie Ted Scott.
“I don’t know what to do. I can’t hear a word you’re saying. I feel like that was a good shot, now I’m in the water,” Scheffler was heard saying. He added, “I absolutely flush a seven iron, and we get the wind wrong, and I’m in the water.”
“I don’t think you understand how frustrating that is,” he continued. “I don’t understand. I really don’t. I mean, it was 5 yards short of the green. Flush 7-iron…I’ve hit good shots and dropping from hazards because we got the wind wrong.”
After the round, Scheffler elaborated to reporters on the wind’s impact.
“That’s just another really good iron shot, and the wind switched from down off the right to pretty significantly in off the right,” he said. “If it’s down off the right, that ball’s probably where I hit my wedge shot to. So just don’t really know what I’m supposed to do there outside of trying to hit a good shot, and then it’s frustrating when it doesn’t work out, especially when it doesn’t work out in that direction.”
“I would rather get gusted in off the left, not in off the right there. All you can do is just try to hit good shots. It can be very frustrating sometimes when you feel like you’re hitting good shots and then you’re going to the drop zone.”
Despite the setback, Scheffler birdied the par-4 17th to limit the damage. He sits tied for 33rd, with several players sharing the lead at 5 under or better in tough, wind-affected conditions.
The 2026 season has been solid but not dominant for Scheffler by his recent standards. He opened with a victory at The American Express but has posted a series of strong but winless results since, including top fives and near misses at events like the WM Phoenix Open, AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, Masters, RBC Heritage and others. He fell short in his PGA Championship title defense but remains the clear favorite at Muirfield Village, where his ball-striking and course knowledge have shone in past years.
Muirfield Village, a Jack Nicklaus design, rewards precision and rewards the best players separating from the field. Scheffler has thrived here, winning in 2024 and 2025, and posting strong finishes earlier in the decade. A three-peat would tie him with Nicklaus’ own record of three straight wins from 1999-2001 at the event he hosts.
Yet Thursday’s round served as a reminder of golf’s unpredictability, even for the game’s dominant figure. Scheffler’s frustration, while rare, underscored the mental toll of elite competition under variable winds and firm conditions.
As attention turns to Friday’s second round, all eyes remain on whether Scheffler can mount a charge, much like his weekend surges in previous Memorials. The field includes stars like Rory McIlroy, who is seeking his first win at the event, and others looking to capitalize on any continued inconsistency from the world No. 1.
LIV Golf Turmoil Adds Layer of Complexity for PGA Tour
While Scheffler’s round provided on-course drama, off-course developments continue to reshape professional golf. LIV Golf, launched in 2022 with massive Saudi Public Investment Fund backing, is reportedly preparing for potential U.S. bankruptcy proceedings if new investors cannot be secured by season’s end. The PIF has signaled it will withdraw funding after 2026, leaving the league’s future in doubt.
The circuit’s collapse would mark the end of a tumultuous chapter that divided the golf world. Dozens of top players defected for guaranteed high payouts and team formats, leading to lawsuits, fractured relationships and a proposed but ultimately unmaterialized full merger with the PGA Tour.
Now, as LIV winds down, its players face uncertain futures. Reports indicate multiple LIV members or their representatives have reached out to the PGA Tour about potential returns, though pathways are expected to be more restrictive than previous re-entries. The PGA Tour must navigate reintegration carefully to maintain competitive balance, sponsor interests and fan engagement without alienating loyal members who stayed.
Bryson DeChambeau, one of LIV’s prominent figures, expressed shock at the developments and hinted at expanding his YouTube presence as a potential next step. Other stars like Jon Rahm have explored options, including DP World Tour accommodations to protect eligibility for events like the Ryder Cup.
For the PGA Tour, the situation presents both opportunity and challenge. A flood of high-profile returns could boost star power and viewership, but it risks diluting prize funds, complicating schedules and reopening old wounds. Commissioner Jay Monahan and officials have emphasized a merit-based system moving forward, with no automatic exemptions likely for former defectors.
This backdrop makes events like the Memorial — a signature PGA Tour stop — even more significant as a showcase for the tour’s enduring strength. Scheffler’s pursuit of history, alongside established and rising talents, reaffirms the PGA Tour’s position as the premier circuit, even as external pressures mount.
Fans and analysts alike will watch closely not just for leaderboard movement this week, but for how the tour positions itself amid the shifting sands of professional golf. Scheffler, ever the steady force, may yet provide the on-course anchor needed during these transitional times.
With three rounds remaining, the two-time major winner from the previous seasons remains well-positioned to contend, wind and all. Golf, as always, demands adaptability — a lesson Scheffler embodied in his post-round reflections and one the entire sport may soon need to apply on a larger scale.
Business
Analysts Favor Buying on AI Server Momentum
NEW YORK — Dell Technologies continues to attract strong investor interest in 2026 as robust demand for AI-optimized servers drives exceptional revenue growth and raises expectations for sustained performance. With shares trading near $420 following a period of volatility, the majority of Wall Street analysts maintain a Buy rating and see further upside potential.

Dell reported standout first-quarter fiscal 2027 results in late May, with total revenue reaching $43.8 billion, up 88% year-over-year. AI server revenue surged 757% to $16.1 billion, while the company booked $24.4 billion in new AI orders and built a substantial backlog. These figures highlight Dell’s successful positioning in the artificial intelligence infrastructure boom, benefiting from partnerships with NVIDIA and hyperscale customers.
Analysts have responded positively, with multiple firms raising price targets in early June. Consensus 12-month price targets cluster around $475 to $500, implying 13-20% upside from current levels. Ratings lean heavily toward Buy, with strong support for the company’s AI-driven transformation.
Strong AI Infrastructure Demand Dell’s Infrastructure Solutions Group has become a primary growth engine. Servers and networking revenue hit records, fueled by “unprecedented demand” for AI-optimized systems. The company raised its full-year AI server revenue guidance significantly, reflecting confidence in continued order conversion and capacity expansion.
Diversified Portfolio Supports Resilience While AI servers dominate headlines, Dell maintains a broad business spanning client solutions, storage and services. Although traditional PC demand shows mixed results, enterprise spending on data center modernization provides a stable foundation. Hybrid cloud and multicloud capabilities further differentiate Dell in competitive bids.
Improving Profitability and Cash Flow Operational efficiency gains have supported margin expansion in key segments. Strong free cash flow generation enables continued investment in growth areas while allowing for shareholder returns through dividends and buybacks. Recent earnings beats demonstrate disciplined execution under leadership.
Strategic Partnerships and Innovation Collaborations with NVIDIA, Microsoft and others enhance Dell’s offerings in AI PCs, edge computing and sovereign cloud solutions. New product launches, such as competitive laptops challenging Apple’s lineup, underscore ongoing innovation across categories.
Analyst Consensus Remains Bullish With 20+ analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating stands at Moderate Buy to Buy. Several major firms, including Goldman Sachs, Mizuho and Bernstein, recently raised targets to around $500. The highest targets reach $700, reflecting optimism about long-term AI tailwinds.
Valuation Appears Reasonable for Growth Profile Despite strong recent performance, Dell trades at multiples that many view as attractive relative to projected earnings growth. Forward estimates incorporate continued double-digit revenue increases and margin improvement as higher-margin AI businesses scale.
Global Enterprise Spending Trends Enterprises worldwide are accelerating digital transformation and AI adoption. Dell’s established relationships with large corporations and governments position it to capture a significant share of this multi-year spending cycle.
Risk Management and Execution Track Record The company has demonstrated resilience through supply chain challenges and market cycles. Management’s focus on backlog conversion and capacity planning supports visibility into future quarters.
Long-Term Secular Opportunity AI proliferation, data center expansion and edge computing create structural demand for Dell’s solutions. As one of the few vendors offering end-to-end infrastructure from servers to client devices, the company benefits from integrated selling opportunities.
While risks such as competition, potential slowdowns in hyperscaler spending and macroeconomic pressures exist, Dell’s recent performance and raised guidance have bolstered confidence. The stock has shown volatility but has rewarded investors betting on its AI pivot.
For investors considering Dell in 2026, the combination of explosive AI growth, strong analyst support and reasonable valuation relative to growth prospects makes a compelling case for a Buy position in diversified technology portfolios. As always, individual circumstances and risk tolerance should guide investment decisions. Upcoming quarterly results will provide further insight into the sustainability of current momentum.
Dell’s transformation from a traditional PC company to an AI infrastructure leader exemplifies successful strategic adaptation. With shares offering exposure to one of the decade’s most powerful technology trends, many market participants view current levels as an attractive entry or accumulation point for long-term growth.
Business
Millicom Stock: Strong Margins, Higher Expectations (NASDAQ:TIGO)
I am a part-time investor interested in equities, ETFs, macro, and emerging markets.
Analyst’s Disclosure: I/we have no stock, option or similar derivative position in any of the companies mentioned, and no plans to initiate any such positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.
Seeking Alpha’s Disclosure: Past performance is no guarantee of future results. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. Any views or opinions expressed above may not reflect those of Seeking Alpha as a whole. Seeking Alpha is not a licensed securities dealer, broker or US investment adviser or investment bank. Our analysts are third party authors that include both professional investors and individual investors who may not be licensed or certified by any institute or regulatory body.
Business
Hindustan Zinc shares tumble 5% to 6-week low after report of govt’s plan to sell 2% stake for Rs 5,000 crore
The shares of the company dropped to Rs 575.20 apiece on NSE, the lowest level seen by the stock in six weeks, after the release of the Bloomberg report, citing people familiar with the matter. Shares of Vedanta, meanwhile, tumbled 3% to Rs 318.80 apiece.
The Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) aims to launch the process this month or in July this year, the report said, adding that ICICI Securities, Axis Capital, IIFL Capital Services, and HDFC Securities are advising the government on the transaction.
Hindustan Zinc shareholding pattern
The Central government held nearly 28% stake in India’s largest silver producer, according to data on the company’s shareholding pattern as on March 31, 2026. Its largest promoter, Vedanta, meanwhile, held nearly 61% stake in the company.
Another 3.5% stake was held by insurance companies, while foreign investors held more than 2% stake in Hindustan Zinc, as at the end of the January-March quarter of FY26.
The latest report on the government’s possible stake sale in Hindustan Zinc comes after the centre ramped up its disinvestment efforts. Last week, the government raised about $531 million from the sale of 2% stake in Coal India. Earlier this week, it raised $450 million by selling 6% stake in NHPC. Bloomberg also reported that the government is now mulling an OFS to sell 2% stake in LIC to raise as much as Rs 10,000 crore.
ED raids at Hindustan Zinc offices
The shares of Hindustan Zinc declined earlier this week after Vedanta said that the Enforcement Directorate team visited some of its offices, confirming news reports. “We hereby inform that the Enforcement Directorate team visited some offices of our company and Hindustan Zinc, a subsidiary of the company,” Vedanta said after stock exchanges sought clarification regarding news reports around ED conducting searches against Vedanta Group in FEMA probe. The Anil Agarwal-led company added that it is fully cooperating with the authorities and providing all requested information.
Later, Vedanta announced that the searches had concluded and no penalty or restriction had been imposed by the authorities.
Hindustan Zinc share price
Hindustan Zinc shares have fallen more than 9% in one week and 6% in one month, while being down more than 6% in 2026 so far. The shares of the company have gained around 17% in one year.
Also read: Did this L&T-backed AI stock actually crash 90% in one day? Here’s all you need to knowIn the longer term, the stock delivered 87% returns over three years and 72% returns over five years. The company currently has a market capitalisation of more than Rs 2.43 lakh crore.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
Business
Titan Company shares gain 2%. Why JPMorgan, others see up to 28% upside after analyst call?
The meet came at a time when the outlook for gold and jewellery demand remained uncertain. Sentiment has been weighed down by a combination of factors, including fading expectations of interest rate cuts amid rising oil prices linked to the Iran conflict, an increase in import duties, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s call for consumers to refrain from buying gold for a year to help arrest the rupee’s sharp decline.
During the call, the Tata Group company outlined ambitious growth targets for FY26-30, aiming to double both its consolidated revenue and EBIT over the period. This implies a revenue and earnings CAGR of about 20% through FY30.
Within its domestic portfolio, the jewellery business, comprising Tanishq, Mia and Zoya, is expected to deliver 2x revenue growth and 1.9x growth in EBIT. CaratLane has been assigned a more aggressive growth trajectory, with management targeting 2.3x revenue growth and 2.5x EBIT expansion, translating into a CAGR of around 25%, driven by continued premiumisation and operating leverage.
Should you buy, sell or hold Titan shares?
JPMorgan, with a Buy call and a target price of Rs 5,400, forecasts an upside of 28% from current levels. JPMorgan says Titan’s core jewellery business continues to benefit from structural growth drivers, including the ongoing formalisation of the jewellery market, where the company gained 50-60 basis points of market share in FY26.
Near-term demand trends also remain encouraging. JPMorgan noted that buyer growth rebounded in the fourth quarter, driven by customers returning to the market amid rising gold prices, the advancement of wedding-related purchases and improving traction in studded jewellery.
The brokerage added that Titan’s ability to sustain demand in a high-gold-price environment remains a key differentiator. Initiatives such as 18-carat and 14-carat jewellery offerings, lightweight products, exchange programmes and grammage-based purchase plans help keep jewellery affordable and accessible to consumers.
Motilal Oswal has reiterated its ‘Buy’ rating on Titan Company with a target price of Rs 5,250, implying an upside potential of 24%. The brokerage believes Titan continues to outperform other organised jewellery players due to its superior competitive positioning across sourcing, studded jewellery mix, youth-focused offerings and reinvestment strategy. It noted that Tanishq’s strong brand recall and entrenched business moat are difficult to replicate, which should help the brand maintain its leadership position in the jewellery segment.The brokerage also expects the company’s non-jewellery businesses to continue scaling up and contribute meaningfully to growth over the medium term. While acknowledging the impact of regulatory headwinds and volatile gold prices on near-term performance, Motilal Oswal said Titan remains well placed to navigate these challenges through continued diversification.
JM Financial has maintained its ‘Buy’ rating on Titan Company with a target price of Rs 4,900, implying an upside potential of 16%.
The brokerage said Titan’s recent analyst meeting reinforced its positive view on the company despite near-term challenges arising from elevated gold prices and regulatory changes. According to JM Financial, management laid out a strategy to create growth engines beyond jewellery by investing in businesses such as eyecare, watches and other emerging segments through premiumisation, omnichannel expansion and category development.
JM Overall, JM Financial believes Titan remains one of India’s highest-quality consumer discretionary franchises, backed by category leadership, strong execution capabilities and multiple long-term growth drivers.
Titan shares have risen 11.5% in the last six months and about 22% in the last 1 year.
(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)
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