SYDNEY — Shares of Sunrise Energy Metals surged 13.34% on Wednesday to close at $16.82, gaining $1.98 on the day and extending one of the most dramatic rallies on the Australian Securities Exchange, as investor enthusiasm for the company’s scandium project in New South Wales continued to drive intense buying activity.

The Melbourne-based mineral exploration company, formerly known as Clean TeQ Holdings before rebranding in March 2021, has emerged as the flagship Western play in the global scandium market, a niche but strategically significant metal used in aerospace, defense and clean energy applications. The stock’s latest surge builds on a rally that has seen shares climb from levels below 30 cents in early 2025 to well above $16 today, a gain exceeding 3,000% over roughly the past year.

The Syerston Project at the Center of the Story

At the heart of Sunrise’s remarkable ascent is its Syerston Project in New South Wales, which the company is developing into what would become the largest primary scandium operation outside China. The project’s significance has grown alongside intensifying global competition over critical mineral supply chains, particularly as China has moved to tighten export restrictions on scandium, a metal it currently controls an estimated 80% to 85% of global supply for.

Company materials have emphasized scandium’s applications across a range of high-specification uses, including defense and aerospace alloys, hypersonic technology, missile systems, shipbuilding and solid-oxide fuel cells, some of which support energy-intensive data centers used in artificial intelligence infrastructure.

A Landmark Deal With Lockheed Martin

A significant catalyst behind the stock’s re-rating came when Sunrise secured a multi-year supply agreement with Lockheed Martin, one of the world’s largest defense contractors. Under the arrangement, Lockheed holds an option to purchase up to 15 tonnes of scandium oxide over five years from the Syerston project, representing roughly 25% of the operation’s forecast Phase 1 production.

The agreement marked a significant validation for a company that had previously struggled to attract top-tier offtake partners, demonstrating both the project’s technical viability and genuine commercial demand for its output from a major aerospace and defense supplier.

CEO Sees Role in US Strategic Stockpile

Sunrise Energy Metals CEO Sam Riggall has publicly stated that the company expects to contribute scandium supply to the United States’ critical minerals stockpile, positioning Sunrise within broader U.S. industrial policy and defense supply-chain objectives as Washington works to diversify away from Chinese-dominated mineral markets.

That positioning has become central to the market’s valuation of the company, with investors increasingly treating the Syerston project as strategic infrastructure rather than a conventional speculative mining play, a framing that has helped cushion the stock against some of the volatility typically associated with pre-revenue resource companies.

Additional Government and Financial Backing

Sunrise has also drawn interest from U.S. government financing channels. The company received a letter of interest from the Export-Import Bank of the United States for up to $67 million, or roughly 103 million Australian dollars, in debt financing support for the Syerston project, further reinforcing the strategic significance being placed on the operation by policymakers seeking to secure non-Chinese sources of critical minerals.

The company is backed in part by Canadian mining entrepreneur Robert Friedland, whose involvement has added additional credibility among institutional and retail investors closely tracking the critical minerals sector.

A Resource Base That Keeps Growing

Sunrise’s project economics have continued to improve alongside its exploration results. A mineral resource estimate revision in September 2025 roughly doubled the contained scandium metal identified at Syerston, reinforcing the project’s potential to support multi-decade supply commitments to strategic partners. The company has since moved from the study phase into early construction activity, awarding engineering contracts earlier this year as it works to advance the project toward production.

A feasibility study previously pegged life-of-mine direct site cash costs at roughly $530 to $540 per kilogram of scandium oxide, positioning Syerston at the lower end of the global cost curve and suggesting the project could offer Sunrise meaningful pricing power in a market where transparency remains limited and supply is tightly controlled by a small number of producers.

A Stock That Has Captured Retail Attention

Sunrise’s dramatic share price trajectory has made it a frequently discussed name within retail investing communities, with online forums repeatedly highlighting the stock’s outsized gains as a case study for other critical minerals equities. The broader rare earths and critical minerals sector has benefited from improving sentiment throughout 2026, supported by continued demand tied to electric vehicles, renewable energy infrastructure and heightened geopolitical concern over supply chain security.

Risks Remain Despite the Rally

Despite the extraordinary run, analysts have cautioned that Sunrise remains a pre-revenue company, meaning its current valuation continues to rest heavily on the successful execution of its development plans rather than established cash flow. The stock has also experienced sharp pullbacks at points over the past year, including notable declines in late February, underscoring the volatility that continues to accompany its rapid ascent.

With a market capitalization that has climbed into the billions of Australian dollars, the margin for error has narrowed considerably even as bullish sentiment persists. Whether Sunrise can successfully convert its scandium narrative into consistent operational output, and whether global demand for the metal ultimately matches current market expectations, will likely determine whether Wednesday’s gains represent another step in a sustainable long-term growth story or a further extension of a speculative run that has already defied expectations for more than a year.

The shares of banks, including heavyweights HDFC Bank, State Bank of India (SBI), IndusInd Bank and others, rose up to 2% on Wednesday, pushing the Nifty Bank index around 1% up as financial stocks led gains on Dalal Street.

The Nifty Bank index gained around 561 points to trade at 58,023, as seen at 12.40 pm. State Bank of India (SBI) shares were the top gainers, rising around 2%. Union Bank of India, Punjab National Bank (PNB), Canara Bank, HDFC Bank and Bank of Baroda rose more than 1% each.

IDFC First Bank, ICICI Bank and AU Small Finance Bank shares gained nearly 1% each, while Yes Bank, Axis Bank, Federal Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank shares were trading in the green with marginal gains.

“Improving balance sheets, better liquidity conditions, stable interest rates and moderating credit costs are expected to support stronger growth and mark the beginning of a broad-based earnings upside for the financials sector,” said Siddhartha Khemka, head of research of wealth management at Motilal Financial Services.

Q1 earnings showdown on Saturday

The sharp rise in the shares of the Indian lenders ahead of crucial Q1 earnings announcements scheduled for Saturday. As many as five heavyweight private banks, including HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, ICICI Bank and Yes Bank, are all set to announce their results for the April-June quarter of the ongoing financial year 2027 on Saturday (July 18).

Nomura, in its note, said that it expected banks under its coverage to report modest core-PPOP growth, led by soft NII growth and controlled opex, while seasonally higher credit costs keep PAT growth muted. It named ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank as its top picks.
The international brokerage said that reported loan growth has been strong for HDFC Bank and Yes Bank, but soft for Axis Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank. For ICICI Bank, Nomura expects loan growth to be strong. However, it overall expects net interest margins will moderate for the lenders.
“We expect Q1 FY27 to be another steady quarter with negative surprise, if any, coming from possible NIM contraction. Provisional numbers suggest solid performance on loan growth across banks (large/mid, public/private/SFB). Asset quality is holding up well across banks and products, with no discernible impact from the current crisis in the Middle East. We prefer frontline banks to others looking at the current macro set-up, which could see NIM pressures abating from here on,” said Kotak Institutional Equities.
Also read | Q1 Showdown: Analysts pick top bets as ICICI Bank, HDFC, Axis, Kotak, Yes Bank gear up for results this week

Motilal Oswal Financial Services, meanwhile, said that its channel checks signal a strong MSME credit demand in the April-June quarter of the ongoing FY27, with an increase in the working capital cycle. Private banks’ share is higher among higher ticket sizes, while public sector banks are gaining incremental market share with competitive pricing and CGTMSE-backed lending, the domestic brokerage added.

Technical view on Nifty Bank

Vatsal Bhuva, Technical Analyst at LKP Securities, expected the Nifty Bank index to find support in the 56,800–56,900 zone, while immediate resistance was seen around 58,200.

On the upside, 58,700 (June’s high) remains the immediate hurdle, according to Bajaj Broking. “A decisive close above this level would confirm a breakout from the ongoing consolidation and could trigger the next leg of the rally towards 59,300 and eventually 60,000 levels in the coming weeks,” it added.

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

Trimmed-mean inflation measure and its sibling median inflation gauge have both gotten unprecedented attention in recent months. It is all owing to new Federal Reserve chairman Kevin Warsh.

In his Senate Banking Committee

Shares of Billionbrains Garage Ventures, the parent company of broking platform Groww, surged nearly 8% to an intraday high of Rs 219 on the BSE after the company reported strong Q1 FY27 earnings. The company posted a consolidated net profit of Rs 735 crore for the quarter, up 94.44% from Rs 378 crore in the corresponding quarter last year.

EBITDA for the quarter under review came in at Rs 971 crore, up 101% from Rs 483 crore in the year ago period. Sequentially, the increase was relatively modest, up 3% from Rs Rs 939 crore, Groww’s investor presentation showed.

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Groww’s revenue from operations also witnessed a sharp uptick, rising 66% to Rs 1,504 crore from Rs 904 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year. Net profit for the quarter grew by 7% to Rs 735 crore from Rs 686 crore last year.

The company said that the consolidated total income grew 63.3% year-on-year in the June quarter, driven by continued traction in newer products such as MTF and commodity derivatives.

In the stock broking business, the company said that risk control measures led to its retail ADTO market share easing sequentially to 15.1%, although it remained 3.3 percentage points higher year-on-year. In commodity derivatives, it expanded its retail market share to 28.6% in notional ADTO across MCX and NSE.
In mutual funds, it retained its position as India’s largest distribution platform for direct mutual funds, with Rs 1.9 lakh crore in direct mutual fund assets under management (AUM). SIP inflows grew 32% year-on-year, outpacing the industry’s 16% growth.The company said it remains focused on leveraging AI across the organisation and now offers an AI-powered mutual fund advisory product ‘MF Prime’, for users who want additional guidance to manage their MF portfolio.

The company added that while it plans to make significant investments in AI, it does not expect these investments to have a material impact on its margins given its scale.

The company said it strengthened its market leadership across key segments during the June quarter by adding 115,000 net clients, supported by higher customer retention and improved product quality despite an industry-wide slowdown.

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At present, the company has 4,35,000 commodity derivatives active users on Groww platform which is up 10.7% on QoQ basis, implying an attach rate of 2.6% in overall active users.

In the current calendar year so far, the stock went up 36.11% and in the last six months, it gained 28.74%.

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

Women’s soccer continues its rapid rise in popularity in 2026, with players blending exceptional on-field talent, leadership and growing public profiles that draw fans across continents. As leagues like the NWSL and Europe’s top divisions expand media deals and attendance, several athletes stand out for their performances and ability to connect with audiences beyond the pitch.

Discussions around prominent figures often highlight a mix of established stars and emerging talents whose skills, marketability and social media presence amplify the sport’s appeal. Rankings that focus on popularity remain subjective, reflecting fan engagement, endorsements and cultural impact alongside athletic achievements. No major senior international tournament anchors the calendar this year, shifting attention to club campaigns and individual honors such as the Ballon d’Or Féminin race.

Barcelona continues to dominate conversations, while NWSL clubs secure record contracts that underscore the league’s growing stature. Here are 10 players frequently cited in conversations about the sport’s most visible and influential figures this season.

Alisha Lehmann of Aston Villa and the Switzerland national team tops many fan-driven lists for her dynamic playing style and substantial online following. The forward has built a global audience through skillful dribbling and energetic presence, amassing millions of social media followers and securing brand partnerships. Her profile illustrates how on-pitch flair combined with off-field visibility helps grow interest in women’s soccer.

Alexia Putellas remains a central figure at Barcelona after overcoming earlier injury challenges. The Spanish midfielder and two-time Ballon d’Or winner posted strong numbers in the 2025/26 campaign, contributing goals and assists while helping her club secure major domestic and European titles. Putellas’ return to elite form has positioned her as a leading contender for the 2026 Ballon d’Or Féminin, with observers noting her leadership and technical quality.

Aitana Bonmatí, also of Barcelona and Spain, enters the year as a three-time Ballon d’Or Féminin winner despite an injury-disrupted 2025/26 season. The midfielder’s vision, work rate and consistency have set benchmarks in recent years. Her representatives have highlighted the connection between performance and market value. “Aitana is the highest-paid female footballer in the world and has the best contract in history because she is the best female footballer in the world, and that has a lot to do with her performance and contribution on the pitch,” said Cristian Martin, CEO of WOM Sports Management, in comments reported earlier this year.

Claudia Pina has emerged as one of Barcelona’s most clinical forwards during the 2025/26 season. The Spanish attacker recorded high goal tallies and assists, drawing attention for her finishing ability and role in the team’s success across competitions. Her rapid development has made her a focal point in discussions about the next generation of stars.

Ewa Pajor continues to deliver prolific scoring form at Barcelona. The Polish forward’s goal output in league and European play has kept her among the most dangerous attackers in women’s soccer. Pajor’s consistency helps drive Barcelona’s attacking identity and contributes to the club’s sustained dominance.

Khadija Shaw of Manchester City and Jamaica maintains her reputation as a reliable goal threat. The forward’s performances in the Women’s Super League and on the international stage have earned consistent recognition. Shaw’s blend of power and finishing ability makes her a key reference point when assessing top strikers.

Alessia Russo has become a central figure at Arsenal and for the England national team. The forward’s contributions in the Women’s Super League and UEFA competitions, including important goals in high-stakes matches, have elevated her profile. Russo’s movement and finishing add a clinical edge to Arsenal’s attack.

Trinity Rodman of the Washington Spirit and the United States national team represents the NWSL’s rising commercial appeal. The forward secured a significant new contract reflecting the league’s progress in player compensation. Rodman’s speed, creativity and visibility have helped position her among the most recognizable young talents in the game.

Sophia Smith remains a cornerstone of the U.S. women’s national team attack. The forward’s pace and goal-scoring threat have been central to club and country performances. Her profile benefits from the broader spotlight on American players in a league that continues to attract investment and attention.

Caroline Graham Hansen of Barcelona and Norway adds width and creativity from the flanks. The winger’s dribbling, crossing and goal contributions have been vital to Barcelona’s success. Hansen’s technical quality and experience make her a consistent presence in conversations about elite European players.

These athletes reflect broader trends in 2026. Record transfers and contracts in the NWSL, including deals for players like Catarina Macario, signal increasing professionalization. Barcelona’s continued success across fronts keeps Spanish players prominent in individual award discussions. Social media engagement amplifies reach, allowing fans worldwide to follow careers in real time and turning matches into shared cultural moments.

The absence of a major tournament this summer has focused attention on domestic leagues and the ongoing Ballon d’Or Féminin campaign, scheduled for October. Voters weigh club performances heavily in a year without Euros or World Cup action. Barcelona’s quartet of Putellas, Bonmatí, Pina and Pajor features prominently in early speculation.

Growth metrics tell a positive story. Attendance figures in top leagues have risen steadily, supported by better broadcasting and marketing. Players with strong personal brands help attract casual viewers who then discover the quality of play. Endorsements and media appearances further embed women’s soccer in mainstream culture.

Challenges remain, including fixture congestion, injury management and the need for continued investment in grassroots development. Yet the visibility of these athletes contributes to momentum. Young fans see role models who combine elite performance with approachability through digital platforms.

As the 2026 club season progresses toward its conclusion and the Ballon d’Or ceremony approaches, attention will stay on how these players and their peers shape the next chapter. Their stories—marked by resilience, skill and expanding influence—illustrate why women’s soccer commands growing audiences and why individual profiles matter as much as team results.

The sport’s trajectory depends on sustained excellence on the pitch paired with smart off-field engagement. Players who excel in both areas help ensure the gains of recent years continue. In 2026, that combination appears stronger than ever across multiple leagues and national teams.