Business
GameStop Shares Edge Higher as $9 Billion Cash Pile and Acquisition Buzz Keep Meme Stock Hopes Alive
GameStop Corp. shares ticked up modestly Thursday as the video game retailer’s massive cash reserves and persistent speculation about a transformational acquisition under CEO Ryan Cohen continued to fuel investor interest despite ongoing revenue declines in its core business.
The stock rose as high as $23.70 before trading near $23.21 midday, up about 1.3% on the session with active volume. That followed a relatively stable period after the company’s fiscal fourth-quarter results released in late March, where profitability improved even as sales fell.
GameStop, once the epicenter of the 2021 meme-stock frenzy that sent shares soaring to nearly $500 pre-split, has evolved into a cash-rich holding company of sorts with roughly $9 billion in cash and marketable securities at the end of January 2026, plus about $368 million in Bitcoin holdings. The war chest has sparked intense speculation about what Cohen — who owns tens of millions of shares and bought another 1 million personally in January — might do next.
In the fiscal fourth quarter ended Jan. 31, 2026, net sales dropped 14% to $1.104 billion from $1.283 billion a year earlier, missing some analyst expectations. The decline reflected continued weakness in hardware and software categories amid the broader shift to digital gaming. However, gross profit rose to $386.8 million from $363.4 million, helped by a growing mix of higher-margin collectibles such as trading cards, which now make up a larger portion of revenue.
Selling, general and administrative expenses fell sharply to $241.5 million from $282.5 million, driving adjusted operating income higher to $147.7 million. Adjusted net income jumped to $291.4 million, with adjusted earnings per share of 49 cents — beating consensus estimates. Reported net income was $127.9 million, or 22 cents per diluted share.
For the full fiscal year 2025, sales declined about 5% to $3.63 billion, but the company swung to an operating profit of $232.1 million from a prior-year loss. Net income reached $418.4 million. The results underscored cost discipline and a pivot toward collectibles, even as traditional video game retail faces structural headwinds.
Cohen, who took the helm in 2021 and has overseen massive cost cuts and store closures, has signaled ambitions far beyond brick-and-mortar retail. In recent months he has teased a “very, very, very big” consumer-related acquisition that he described as transformational — potentially far more compelling than the company’s earlier Bitcoin treasury experiment. Rumors have swirled around possible targets in gaming, e-commerce, media or even unrelated consumer sectors that could leverage GameStop’s cash and brand.
The board granted Cohen a massive performance-based stock option award in January covering more than 171 million shares at an exercise price of $20.66. The award is entirely “at-risk,” with no base salary or cash bonus, and vests only if GameStop hits aggressive milestones such as $10 billion in market capitalization initially and up to $100 billion eventually, along with substantial EBITDA targets. Shareholders are expected to vote on the plan soon.
GameStop has also embraced Bitcoin as a treasury asset, holding roughly 4,709 BTC. The company has used some of the holdings in a covered-call strategy via Coinbase to generate yield while maintaining exposure. Earlier transfers of the Bitcoin stash to institutional platforms sparked brief sale rumors, but filings confirmed the position remains intact as a strategic reserve.
Short interest remains elevated at around 64 million shares, or roughly 15-16% of the float as of mid-March, with days-to-cover still in the double digits. That keeps the meme-stock narrative alive for retail investors who continue to monitor for any signs of a repeat squeeze, though borrowing fees are low and the dynamic appears less explosive than in 2021.
Analysts remain divided. Many highlight the attractive cash position per share — effectively giving investors a large portion of the current market capitalization in liquid assets — while warning that the legacy retail business continues to shrink without a clear growth catalyst. Consensus price targets generally sit well below recent trading levels, reflecting skepticism about execution on any major deal.
The company has not provided formal forward guidance, a pattern in recent quarters. For the current year, investors will watch for any updates on store optimization, further expansion into collectibles and — most critically — details on capital deployment. GameStop has also updated its investment policy to allow broader equity and crypto investments, positioning it more like an activist holding company than a traditional retailer.
Insider activity has been mixed. While Cohen added to his stake earlier in the year, some other executives have sold shares to cover taxes on restricted stock units. The stock has traded largely sideways to modestly higher in 2026, outperforming many other meme names but remaining far below its pandemic-era peaks.
Broader challenges persist. The video game industry continues shifting toward digital downloads and subscriptions, pressuring physical sales. Competition from Amazon, Best Buy and specialized e-commerce players remains fierce. GameStop has responded by emphasizing in-store experiences, exclusive merchandise and collectibles, areas where it can still command loyalty from enthusiasts.
Yet the real story for many investors is the balance sheet and Cohen’s vision. With nearly $9 billion in cash — bolstered by past equity raises during high-stock-price periods — GameStop sits on one of the strongest liquidity positions among consumer retailers. That firepower could fund a major acquisition, share buybacks, special dividends or even a pivot into new sectors.
Cohen has repeatedly emphasized an “owner’s mentality,” urging the company to treat capital as if it were its own. His personal purchases and at-risk compensation structure reinforce that message. Whether that translates into value-creating moves remains the central question hanging over the stock.
Thursday’s modest gain came with no major company-specific news, appearing driven by technical factors and lingering deal speculation. Options activity has shown mixed sentiment, with some bullish sweeps on near-term calls offset by caution in longer-dated contracts.
GameStop’s market capitalization hovers near $10 billion, a fraction of its meme-peak valuation but still reflecting a premium to its shrinking retail operations. The stock’s high beta and dedicated retail following mean it can move sharply on headlines, rumors or social media momentum.
Looking ahead, the next catalysts include the shareholder vote on Cohen’s compensation package, any announcements on acquisitions or strategic initiatives, and the eventual first-quarter 2026 results. Analysts will scrutinize any commentary on cash deployment and whether the company can stabilize or grow revenue in a challenging retail environment.
For now, GameStop embodies the tension between a declining legacy business and the tantalizing potential of its cash hoard and leadership’s ambitions. As Cohen hunts for that next big move, investors — both the die-hard “apes” from the original squeeze era and new speculative players — continue to watch closely for signs that the retailer can reinvent itself once again.
Whether it becomes a Berkshire Hathaway-style holding company, executes a blockbuster consumer deal or simply returns capital to shareholders, the coming months could determine if GameStop finally delivers on the transformation narrative that has kept its story alive for years.
Business
Air Canada (AC:CA) Shareholder/Analyst Call Transcript
Vagn Sørensen
[Interpreted] Good morning, shareholders and guests. My name is Vagn Sorensen. I am the Chair of Board of Directors of Air Canada. Welcome to our Annual Meeting of Shareholders.
[indiscernible] Canada’s commitment to indigenous inclusion and reconciliation. Our network crosses many treaty lands as well as unceded and traditional territories of indigenous nations and governments on Turtle Island, that is North America. In that spirit, we recognize the ancestral and traditional lands of the indigenous people we fly over.
[Interpreted] In 2025, Air Canada was honored to support the return of 62 sacred and cultural indigenous artifacts from the Vatican. We carried them back on one of our aircraft. We’re meeting today only a few weeks after the tragic accident at LaGuardia Airport involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the 2 Jazz pilots who tragically lost their lives.
I also want to express our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of 2 Jazz pilots who tragically lost their lives. I also want to express our sincerest sympathies to the passengers, crew members and others who were injured or otherwise affected as well as our appreciation to everyone in our company, industry or otherwise, who helped at the time and in the days that followed.
[Interpreted] That tragedy has been felt by all of our Air Canada family. I invite you if you are able to stand and observe a moment
Business
Mitsui: New Three-Year Plan Should Deliver 10% Annual Growth (Rating Upgrade)
Mitsui: New Three-Year Plan Should Deliver 10% Annual Growth (Rating Upgrade)
Business
Energy & Utilities Roundup: Market Talk
The latest Market Talks covering Energy and Utilities. Published exclusively on Dow Jones Newswires at 4:20 ET, 12:20 ET and 16:50 ET.
1508 ET – Oil futures retreat from overnight highs and settle lower with the market watching for the next move in the standoff between the U.S. and Iran while just a trickle of oil gets through the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude for June delivery falls 3.4% to go off the board at $114.01 a barrel, bringing it closer to the $110.40 for the July contract. “On top of the expiration liquidation flush today, Brent also came under pressure after European Union economic data came in on the soft side,” Mizuho’s Robert Yawger says in a note, pointing to the below-estimate 0.1% rise in eurozone 1Q GDP. WTI settles down 1.7% at $105.07 a barrel.(anthony.harrup@wsj.com)
1309 ET – The European Central Bank’s decision to hold the interest rate at 2% makes perfect sense given the current uncertainty in markets, Morningstar strategist Michael Field said. Interest rate has been stable until a few months ago, but after the price of a barrel of oil spiked to $125, the situation has become more volatile. “The Governing Council will closely monitor the situation and follow a data-dependent and meeting-by-meeting approach to determining the appropriate monetary policy stance,” writes the European Central Bank in a press release. Investors have priced in 2-3 rate hikes as high as 2.5%-2.75%. Field says markets presumably will read the language in today’s statement positively.(julia.nasser@wsj.com)
0953 ET – ConocoPhillips says it is excluding Qatar from its production guidance for the current quarter, citing uncertainty around the war in the Middle East. The oil producer also cuts its full-year production outlook to account for the exclusion, now calling for production of 2.3 million to 2.33 million barrels of oil-equivalent per day this year. That compares with a prior outlook of 2.33 million to 2.36 million barrels of oil-equivalent per day. ConocoPhillips is off 1.8% in early trading after reporting lower 1Q earnings. (connor.hart@wsj.com)
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Business
Trump says US Navy acting ’like pirates’ to carry out naval blockade of Iranian ports

Trump says US Navy acting ’like pirates’ to carry out naval blockade of Iranian ports
Business
Form 13G Eloxx Pharmaceuticals For: 1 May

Form 13G Eloxx Pharmaceuticals For: 1 May
Business
Timberwolves Star at Least Two Weeks From Knee Injury Comeback
MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards is expected to miss at least two weeks with a bone bruise and hyperextension in his left knee.

The injury occurred in Game 4 when Edwards landed awkwardly after contesting a shot. He was helped off the court in visible pain, sparking immediate concern among fans and analysts. An MRI confirmed no structural ligament damage, a significant relief, but the bone bruise requires careful rehabilitation to avoid long-term complications. The Timberwolves have listed him as week-to-week while emphasizing a cautious approach.
Shams Charania of ESPN reported the two-week minimum timeline, noting it positions Edwards for a potential return “at some point in the second round” if Minnesota advances. The Wolves currently lead the series, but Edwards’ absence has tested their depth against a resilient Nuggets team. Coach Chris Finch has praised the supporting cast while acknowledging the challenge of replacing Edwards’ scoring and athleticism.
The timeline aligns with typical recovery for bone bruises in athletes. These injuries involve trauma to the bone beneath cartilage and can cause significant pain and swelling. Hyperextension adds soft tissue strain, requiring progressive loading to restore strength and confidence. Edwards also manages patellar tendinitis in his right knee, adding complexity to his rehabilitation protocol.
Medical experts say bone bruises heal at varying rates depending on severity, location and individual factors. A two-week absence represents the optimistic end of the spectrum, with some cases requiring four to six weeks for full return to high-level competition. The Timberwolves’ medical staff, working with specialists at Mayo Clinic, will monitor progress through imaging and functional testing before clearing Edwards.
Edwards’ potential absence has major implications for Minnesota’s postseason hopes. As the team’s leading scorer and dynamic playmaker, he averages over 27 points per game in the playoffs. His ability to attack the rim and create for teammates has been central to the Wolves’ success. Without him, opponents can focus defensive attention on Karl-Anthony Towns and others, potentially slowing the offense.
Finch has adjusted lineups and strategies to compensate. Increased minutes for bench players and tactical tweaks have kept the team competitive, but the drop-off in explosiveness is noticeable. If the series extends or Minnesota advances, the coaching staff will carefully manage Edwards’ minutes upon return to avoid re-injury.
The injury occurred at a critical juncture in Edwards’ young career. At 24, he has emerged as one of the NBA’s brightest stars, with All-Star selections and playoff heroics. His absence tests the franchise’s depth and resilience as it aims for a deep postseason run. Team officials have expressed confidence in the roster’s ability to compete while prioritizing Edwards’ long-term health.
Fan reaction has been a mix of concern and optimism. Social media is filled with well-wishes and debates about return timelines. The Wolves’ playoff run has captivated Minnesota, with Edwards’ charismatic personality and highlight-reel plays endearing him to supporters. His potential return in the second round could provide a massive boost if the team reaches that stage.
Broader NBA implications include player load management and injury prevention. Edwards’ high-usage style and athleticism make him susceptible to lower-body injuries despite his youth. League-wide discussions about rest, scheduling and medical protocols continue as stars miss time in critical playoff moments. The Timberwolves’ handling of Edwards’ recovery could serve as a case study.
As rehabilitation progresses, the focus remains on incremental milestones. Initial rest and swelling reduction will give way to strength training, agility work and eventually on-court drills. Edwards’ competitive nature suggests he will push to return as soon as medically safe, but the organization will err on caution to protect his future.
The coming days will bring more clarity as the series unfolds and medical updates emerge. For now, the Timberwolves face a formidable challenge without their star, while Edwards works behind the scenes preparing for a potential heroic return. The two-week minimum provides a target, but playoff basketball’s unpredictable schedule could align favorably or extend his recovery window.
Business
Stryker First-Quarter Sales, Profit Rise as it Dealt with Cyberattack
Stryker posted higher profit and sales in the first quarter, during which it was hit by a cyberattack that reportedly was in retaliation to the war in Iran.
The medical-device company on Thursday posted a profit of $745 million, or $1.93 a share, compared with $654 million, or $1.69 a share, in the same quarter a year ago.
Copyright ©2026 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 87990cbe856818d5eddac44c7b1cdeb8
Business
Thai Airways International to Double Fuel Surcharges Starting May 1
Thai Airways International will nearly double fuel surcharges on most routes from May 1 due to soaring jet fuel prices. This follows recent flight reductions. Tickets issued before May 1 will retain existing rates.
Key Points
- Fuel Surcharge Increase: Thai Airways is nearly doubling fuel surcharges on many routes for tickets issued from May 1st due to soaring jet fuel prices caused by the US/Iran conflict.
- Route Impact and Examples: Both regional and long-haul flights will be affected, with significant price hikes on routes like Bangkok-Yangon, Bangkok-Beijing, Bangkok-Seoul, Bangkok-Sydney, and European destinations.
- Ticketing Deadline: Passengers whose tickets are issued by April 30th will retain the current, lower surcharge rates, regardless of their travel date.
Increased Fuel Surcharges Implemented
Thai Airways International is set to significantly increase fuel surcharges on numerous routes, effective for all tickets issued from May 1. These surcharges, integrated directly into the ticket price, will impact both regional and long-haul flights. This adjustment follows a recent reduction in flight frequencies across domestic, regional, and intercontinental services. The airline attributes this decision to a substantial surge in jet fuel prices, which have reportedly tripled since the commencement of the US/Iran conflict. This measure aims to offset the escalating operational costs associated with fuel.
Specific Route Adjustments and Passenger Protection
The revised fuel surcharges present a marked increase across various routes. For instance, the Bangkok–Yangon route will see surcharges rise from USD 49 to USD 93 in economy class. Similarly, Bangkok–Beijing and Bangkok–Delhi routes will experience an increase from USD 126 to USD 241 for economy class tickets. Longer routes, such as Bangkok–Sydney, will jump from USD 203 to USD 389 in economy. The steepest hikes are observed on European routes like Milan, London, and Paris, where economy class surcharges will climb from USD 275 to USD 524. Crucially, passengers with tickets issued by April 30 will retain the existing surcharge rates, irrespective of their travel date.
Rationale and Market Context
The airline’s decision to almost double fuel surcharges is a direct response to the volatile global fuel market, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions. The tripling of jet fuel prices has created an unsustainable cost burden for the airline. This financial pressure is also reflected in the airline’s prior decision to reduce flight frequencies, indicating a broader strategy to optimize capacity and manage operational expenses. This move aligns with industry-wide trends, as indicated by related news about other carriers reducing flights and airfares surging on Europe-Asia routes due to similar market conditions.
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Baby Born Prematurely Aboard ITA Airways Flight From Dakar to Rome

A woman who was seven months pregnant unexpectedly gave birth aboard an ITA Airways flight.
The flight was on its way to Rome from Dakar, the capital of Senegal.
Woman Gives Birth on ITA Airways Flight
According to a report by TravelPulse, the woman went into labor around an hour after takeoff. She safely delivered her baby with the help of a doctor and a nurse who happened to be onboard.
“On flight AZ855, which departed from Dakar last night and was headed to Rome Fiumicino, about an hour after takeoff a woman who was seven months pregnant prematurely gave birth to a baby,” the airline revealed in its statement, which was written in both Italian and English.
Both the mother and the baby are reportedly in good condition.
First Birth on an ITA Airways Flight
ITA Airways has announced the “happy and unexpected” event on social media, according to Wanted in Rome. The airline also confirmed that this event is actually quite history-making for the airline.
“The baby, in perfect health, is the first child ever born on board an ITA Airways aircraft,” the airline revealed in its statement.
The statement added, “The airline wishes him a wonderful life full of joy.”
Originally published on Travelers Today
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