NEW YORK — Intel Corp. (NASDAQ: INTC) shares surged more than 13% on Thursday, trading around $124.49 in afternoon trading, as investors cheered strong momentum in its artificial intelligence chip business, better-than-expected guidance, and signs that the company’s multi-year turnaround under CEO Pat Gelsinger is gaining real traction. The dramatic move marked one of the largest single-day percentage gains for the chipmaker in years and pushed its market capitalization above $530 billion.

The rally was triggered by Intel’s announcement of accelerating demand for its Gaudi 3 AI accelerators and new design wins with major hyperscalers. The company also raised its full-year 2026 revenue outlook and highlighted early success in its foundry business, where it secured additional external customers for advanced chip manufacturing. Volume was extremely heavy, more than triple the daily average, as short sellers covered positions and momentum investors piled in.

Intel reported fiscal first-quarter 2026 results that beat expectations on both the top and bottom lines. Revenue reached $12.7 billion, and the company posted a narrower-than-expected loss as cost-cutting measures and improved product mix began to show results. Most importantly, Intel’s Data Center and AI segment showed clear improvement, with Gaudi 3 shipments ramping faster than anticipated.

Turnaround Narrative Gains Credibility

For years Intel has lagged behind Nvidia and AMD in the high-growth AI accelerator market. Thursday’s surge reflects growing belief on Wall Street that the company is finally closing the gap. Gelsinger has aggressively restructured the company, splitting it into separate foundry and product groups, investing heavily in new process technologies, and pursuing external foundry customers to utilize excess manufacturing capacity.

Analysts noted that Intel’s Gaudi 3 offers strong performance-per-dollar advantages in certain AI training and inference workloads, making it an attractive alternative for cost-conscious cloud providers. Several large design wins announced in recent weeks have helped validate this strategy. The company also highlighted progress on its 18A process node, which is expected to enter production later this year and compete directly with TSMC’s most advanced offerings.

Analyst Reaction Turns Strongly Bullish

Several major firms raised price targets and upgraded ratings following the results. Average 12-month targets now sit around $145–$160, with some optimistic forecasts reaching $200. The consensus rating improved to “Moderate Buy,” with analysts citing improved execution, AI momentum, and potential government support through the CHIPS Act.

The stock had been under pressure for much of the past two years as Intel ceded ground in both CPUs and AI accelerators. Thursday’s move represents a significant shift in sentiment, with investors betting that the worst of the downturn is behind the company and that multi-year investments are beginning to pay off.

Risks and Remaining Challenges

While enthusiasm is high, challenges remain. Intel still faces intense competition from Nvidia’s dominant position in AI and AMD’s strong CPU offerings. The company continues to burn cash on massive capital expenditures for new fabs, and profitability has been inconsistent. Any delay in the 18A process node ramp could disappoint investors who are now pricing in a successful recovery.

Geopolitical risks, including potential trade restrictions with China and supply chain issues, also remain factors. However, Intel’s status as a major U.S.-based manufacturer has earned it substantial government support through the CHIPS and Science Act, providing both funding and a strategic tailwind.

Long-Term Outlook Improves

Looking further into 2026 and beyond, analysts project Intel could return to consistent profitability and regain meaningful share in both traditional and AI markets. The company’s foundry ambitions, if successful, could create a second high-margin business alongside its product segments. Leadership has set ambitious targets for 2030, aiming to become a top-tier player across computing, AI, and manufacturing.

For investors, Thursday’s surge highlights both the opportunity and volatility in semiconductor turnaround stories. While the move may invite some profit-taking, the improving fundamentals, AI momentum, and government backing suggest further upside if execution remains on track. Those already holding shares have strong reasons to maintain positions, while new buyers may view current levels as an attractive entry into a high-beta recovery play.

As trading continued Thursday, all eyes remained on whether Intel can sustain these elevated levels or if the rally extends further on momentum. Regardless, the company has delivered a powerful reminder that strategic repositioning in the AI era can rapidly reshape investor perceptions and valuations. Intel’s journey from laggard to potential leader is far from complete, but today’s move suggests the market is increasingly willing to bet on its success.

Looking for the best Morocco travel agency for your next adventure? A trusted Morocco tour company can help you experience the country’s stunning deserts, imperial cities, mountain villages, and rich culture without stress.

The best Morocco travel agencies offer private tours, Sahara Desert trips, luxury travel packages, local guides, and customized itineraries designed around your travel style and budget.

Whether you are planning a romantic honeymoon, family vacation, luxury Morocco tour, or budget backpacking adventure, working with a professional Morocco travel agency ensures a smoother, safer, and more authentic experience.

Morocco is one of the world’s most exciting destinations, but planning transportation, accommodations, desert tours, and cultural experiences independently can become overwhelming. That is why many travelers choose experienced local experts to organize unforgettable Morocco journeys.

Best Morocco Travel Agency Overview (Why You Need a Morocco Tour Company)

Morocco is a country filled with diversity. In one trip, travelers can visit busy markets in Marrakech, ride camels across the Sahara Desert, explore ancient medinas in Fes, hike through the Atlas Mountains, and relax in the blue streets of Chefchaouen.

However, Morocco is not always easy to navigate for first-time visitors. Language barriers, long travel distances, local transportation systems, and desert logistics can create challenges.

This is where the best Morocco travel agency becomes valuable.

Benefits of Booking a Morocco Travel Agency

A professional Morocco tour company provides:

• Comfortable transportation
• Expert local guides
• Personalized itineraries
• Hotel and riad reservations
• Desert camp experiences
• Airport transfers
• Local cultural experiences
• Travel support during your trip

Instead of worrying about travel details, visitors can focus on enjoying Morocco.

Why Morocco Trips Are Better With Local Experts

Local Morocco travel agencies understand the country far better than international resellers. They know:

• Hidden gems beyond tourist areas
• Safe and efficient travel routes
• Authentic restaurants and riads
• Best desert camps
• Local customs and traditions

A local agency also gives travelers direct communication with the people organizing the trip.

For travelers seeking authentic and customized experiences, Tilila Travel offers personalized Morocco tours designed by local travel specialists.

How to Choose the Best Morocco Travel Agency

Not all Morocco tour companies offer the same quality of service. Choosing the right travel agency is one of the most important decisions for your trip.

Experience and Reputation

An experienced Morocco travel agency understands how to organize smooth itineraries and handle unexpected travel situations.

Look for:

• Years in business
• Professional website
• Clear communication
• Detailed tour information

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Always read Morocco travel agency reviews before booking.

Check:

• Google Reviews
• TripAdvisor
• Social media feedback
• Independent travel forums

Reliable agencies usually have positive reviews mentioning:

• Driver professionalism
• Tour organization
• Accommodation quality
• Communication and support

Local Expertise

The best Morocco tour companies are based in Morocco and employ local drivers and guides.

This ensures:

• Better local knowledge
• Authentic experiences
• Faster support during travel

Custom Itinerary Options

Avoid agencies offering only fixed travel packages.

A good Morocco travel agency should allow:

• Flexible schedules
• Personalized routes
• Customized accommodations
• Special requests

Pricing Transparency

Professional agencies clearly explain:

• What is included
• What is excluded
• Optional activities
• Extra fees

Avoid agencies with unclear or suspiciously cheap pricing.

Top Services Offered by the Best Morocco Travel Agencies

The best Morocco travel agencies provide services for every type of traveler.

Morocco Private Tours

Private Morocco tours offer:

• Flexible travel schedules
• Personalized experiences
• Private transportation
• Better comfort and privacy

These tours are ideal for couples, families, and luxury travelers.

Sahara Desert Tours Morocco

Sahara Desert tours are among the most popular travel experiences in Morocco.

Most tours include:

• Camel trekking
• Luxury desert camps
• Sunset and sunrise experiences
• Traditional Berber music

The Merzouga Desert is the most famous destination for Sahara tours.

Morocco Customized Itineraries

Customized Morocco itineraries allow travelers to:

• Choose destinations
• Select accommodation levels
• Control travel pace
• Focus on personal interests

Customized tours are ideal for honeymooners, photographers, food lovers, and cultural travelers.

Morocco Day Trips and Excursions

Popular Morocco day trips include:

• Atlas Mountains excursions
• Essaouira coastal trips
• Ouzoud waterfalls
• Agafay Desert tours

Luxury Morocco Travel Packages

Luxury Morocco travel packages may include:

• Boutique riads
• Luxury desert camps
• Private drivers
• Fine dining experiences
• VIP airport transfers

Luxury tours combine comfort with authentic Moroccan culture.

Best Morocco Travel Agency for Different Travel Styles

Budget Morocco Travel Agency

Budget travelers should look for agencies offering:

• Shared tours
• Affordable riads
• Group transportation
• Flexible itineraries

Budget Morocco tours can still provide incredible experiences.

Luxury Morocco Tour Companies

Luxury travelers should prioritize:

• High-end accommodations
• Private guides
• Personalized service
• Premium desert camps

Luxury Morocco travel focuses on comfort, exclusivity, and unique experiences.

Morocco Private Tour Agencies

Private tour agencies are perfect for:

• Families
• Couples
• Solo travelers seeking flexibility
• Small groups

Private tours provide better customization and privacy.

Morocco Group Tour Agencies

Group tours are ideal for:

• Budget-conscious travelers
• Social travelers
• Students
• First-time visitors

Group travel reduces costs while offering guided experiences.

Morocco Honeymoon Travel Agencies

Honeymoon travelers often look for:

• Romantic desert camps
• Luxury riads
• Sunset dinners
• Private excursions

Morocco is becoming a top honeymoon destination thanks to its unique atmosphere and luxury experiences.

Popular Morocco Tours Offered by Travel Agencies

Marrakech to Sahara Desert Tour

This is Morocco’s most popular route.

Highlights include:

• Atlas Mountains
• Ait Benhaddou
• Dades Valley
• Merzouga Desert

These tours typically last 3–5 days.

Fes to Marrakech Desert Tour

Travelers starting in northern Morocco often choose this scenic route through:

• Cedar forests
• Ziz Valley
• Sahara Desert
• Southern Morocco landscapes

Morocco Grand Tour (7–10 Days Itinerary)

A Morocco Grand Tour usually includes:

• Marrakech
• Sahara Desert
• Fes
• Chefchaouen
• Casablanca

This itinerary offers a complete Morocco experience.

Chefchaouen and Northern Morocco Tour

Northern Morocco tours focus on:

• Blue city streets
• Mountain landscapes
• Relaxed cultural experiences

Chefchaouen is one of Morocco’s most photographed destinations.

Atlas Mountains Day Trips

Atlas Mountains tours are perfect for:

• Hiking
• Berber village visits
• Nature lovers
• Adventure travelers

These day trips are commonly organized from Marrakech.

Why Choose tililatravel.com as Your Morocco Travel Agency

Choosing the right Morocco travel agency can completely transform your travel experience. At Tilila Travel, travelers receive personalized service, local expertise, and carefully designed Morocco tours.

Unique Selling Points

Tilila Travel focuses on:

• Authentic local experiences
• Personalized travel planning
• Flexible itineraries
• Comfortable transportation
• Excellent customer support

Local Expertise

As a Morocco-based travel company, Tilila Travel understands:

• Local culture
• Hidden destinations
• Best travel routes
• Authentic accommodations

This creates a more immersive travel experience.

Custom Tours

Travelers can customize:

• Tour duration
• Destinations
• Hotel categories
• Desert experiences
• Transportation style

Every itinerary is tailored to the traveler’s needs.

Customer Satisfaction

Professional communication, reliable service, and attention to detail help Tilila Travel create memorable Morocco journeys for travelers worldwide.

Trust and Reliability

Trust is essential when booking international travel. Tilila Travel prioritizes:

• Transparent pricing
• Honest communication
• Safe travel experiences
• Professional support

Morocco Travel Agency Cost (What to Expect)

Morocco tour prices vary depending on:

• Tour duration
• Accommodation level
• Group size
• Transportation type
• Season

Budget vs Luxury Pricing

What’s Included in Packages

Most Morocco travel packages include:

• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Driver or guide
• Desert camp stay
• Some meals

Hidden Costs to Avoid

Before booking, ask about:

• Entrance fees
• Optional activities
• Tipping expectations
• Lunch and dinner exclusions

Clear pricing prevents misunderstandings.

Best Time to Book a Morocco Travel Agency

High Season vs Low Season

High Season

• Spring (March–May)
• Autumn (September–November)

These months offer ideal weather.

Low Season

• Summer desert travel can be extremely hot
• Winter nights in the desert can become cold

When to Book for Best Deals

For the best accommodations and tour availability:

• Book 2–4 months in advance
• Reserve early during holidays

Luxury tours and Sahara camps often sell out quickly.

Tips for Booking a Morocco Travel Agency

How to Avoid Scams

Always:

• Verify company information
• Read reviews carefully
• Avoid suspiciously cheap offers
• Use secure payment methods

Questions to Ask Before Booking

Ask:

• What is included?
• Is airport transfer provided?
• Are accommodations private?
• What type of vehicle is used?
• Is the tour customizable?

Red Flags to Watch

Avoid agencies that:

• Refuse to provide details
• Have poor communication
• Demand full cash payment only
• Lack online presence

Morocco Travel Agency vs DIY Travel (Which is Better?)

Pros and Cons Comparison

Travel Agency Advantages

• Convenience
• Local support
• Time-saving
• Better desert access

DIY Travel Advantages

• Flexible schedule
• Lower costs
• Independent exploration

When to Choose a Travel Agency

A Morocco travel agency is ideal if:

• It is your first Morocco trip
• You want Sahara Desert tours
• You prefer stress-free travel
• You value local expertise

Best Morocco Travel Agency FAQs

What is the best travel agency in Morocco?

The best Morocco travel agency offers personalized itineraries, local expertise, transparent pricing, and excellent customer reviews.

How much does a Morocco travel agency cost?

Prices range from budget tours around $50 per day to luxury private tours exceeding $500 per day.

Is it better to book a tour or travel Morocco independently?

For first-time visitors and desert trips, guided tours are often easier and safer.

Are Morocco travel agencies worth it?

Yes. They simplify transportation, accommodations, desert logistics, and cultural experiences.

How do I choose a reliable Morocco travel agency?

Read reviews, verify local presence, compare services, and ask detailed questions before booking.

Do Morocco travel agencies offer custom itineraries?

Most professional agencies offer fully customized Morocco travel packages.

Can I book Sahara desert tours through agencies?

Yes. Sahara Desert tours are one of the most popular services offered by Morocco travel agencies.

Are Morocco travel agencies safe?

Reputable Morocco tour companies provide safe transportation and reliable travel support.

What services do Morocco tour companies provide?

Services include:

• Private tours
• Desert trips
• Transportation
• Accommodations
• Guided excursions

When should I book a Morocco travel agency?

Booking 2–4 months in advance is recommended during busy seasons.

Do agencies include accommodation and transport?

Most Morocco travel packages include both accommodations and transportation.

Can I find budget Morocco travel agencies?

Yes. Morocco offers tours for every budget level.

Are there luxury Morocco tour companies?

Many agencies specialize in luxury Morocco travel experiences and premium services.

Do Morocco travel agencies speak English?

Most professional agencies serving international tourists offer English-speaking guides and drivers.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?

Cancellation policies vary, so always confirm terms before booking.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best Morocco travel agency is one of the most important steps for planning an unforgettable Morocco journey. A trusted Morocco tour company helps travelers experience the country safely, comfortably, and authentically while saving time and avoiding common travel challenges.

From luxury desert camps and private Morocco tours to budget group adventures and cultural itineraries, Morocco offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.

If you are looking for personalized service, authentic local expertise, flexible itineraries, and reliable support, Tilila Travel is ready to help you plan the perfect Morocco adventure.

Robert Jeffrey Orr

Good morning, everyone. And — I’m going to say my name is Jeffrey Orr. I’m looking out at faces that I think I know almost everyone here, but there are also folks on the line as well. So everyone, welcome to the Annual Meeting of IGM Financial. And it’s my pleasure to be here with you.

[Foreign Language] the Annual Meeting of Shareholders of IGM.

In Winnipeg on the original lands of the [Foreign Language] And our Manitoba office is also located on the National homeland of the Red River Métis and in the heart of Treaty 1 Territory. As a founding signatory of the Winnipeg indigenous accord, we are committed to building relationships with Canada’s first peoples guided by the principles of respect, quality and collaboration.

So with that, I’d like to welcome everyone who is joining us here today. And with me on the stage is James O’Sullivan, President and CEO of IGM Financial; and Sonya Reiss, Corporate Secretary of IGM.

So in our remarks today, we may make forward-looking information or non-IFRS financial measures. And there’s a long legal cautionary statement that’s on the screen that you can also find in the annual report and available on our website.

So the formal part of the meeting consists of tabling the annual financial statements and report, the election of directors, appointment of auditors, an advisory vote on executive compensation. And then James is going to give us the CEO’s address. I’ll make some brief remarks following that, and then we’ll have a Q&A period.

So I’m going to call the meeting to

When Britain signed its new critical minerals agreement with Kazakhstan earlier this year, it marked more than another trade announcement.

The deal, focused on securing access to strategic minerals such as uranium, titanium and rare earths, also includes cooperation on geological exploration, processing capacity and refining, moving the relationship beyond simple extraction toward longer-term industrial partnership. The move signals a broader shift in how decision-makers and financial insiders in London and across the Continent are beginning to view Central Asia. For years, European investors have treated the region as peripheral, with  the mining industry in particular often seen as politically difficult, operationally complex and too slow-paced to satisfy short-term capital expectations.

Yet a handful of investors and companies moved earlier. One such investor was Swedish business leader Martin Andersson, who built his decades-long career by embedding himself in the Russian and Central Asian economies across strategic sectors such as mining and energy, helping to support their gradual opening to private foreign capital during decisive periods of economic transition. In a similar vein, French nuclear fuel cycle company Orano entered the country in the 1990s through KATCO, a joint venture with the state-controlled Kazatomprom, Kazakhstan’s national atomic company, helping to develop large-scale in-situ recovery uranium operations in southern Kazakhstan. Today, that partnership speaks directly to Europe’s search for reliable strategic resource relationships beyond its traditional supply base.

With Central Asia now attracting growing interest from investors around the world, Europe has to make up for lost time in a region increasingly central to its own economic security.

Mining is far from a niche concern

At this point, mining and minerals are hardly a specialist policy issue, but sit at the centre of defence planning, industrial strategy, energy security and the transition to lower-carbon technologies. Without secure access to copper, rare earths, uranium, tungsten, and other strategic inputs, there are no batteries, no advanced defence systems, no resilient digital infrastructure and no credible energy transition.

The painful lesson of recent years, including the energy crisis currently engulfing the continent, is clear enough. Dependencies that appear efficient in stable periods can become serious vulnerabilities in moments of crisis or disruption. In the case of raw materials and metals, supply chains remain highly concentrated and investment decisions made today will determine Europe’s industrial resilience a decade from now.

This is why Central Asia deserves attention. Kazakhstan’s scale has rightly attracted growing attention, particularly from the UK, but the wider region also deserves a more serious European strategy. Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and other countries in the region are part of a broader resource and connectivity landscape that will shape Eurasian trade, mining and infrastructure for years to come.

The deep expertise of early adopters

Swedish entrepreneur Martin Andersson recognised Central Asia’s strategic importance earlier than most. Before critical minerals rose up the agenda in Brussels and London, Andersson was already backing mining projects in post-Soviet markets, identifying major investment potential in countries many others viewed primarily through the lens of political complexity and uncertainty.

After graduating from the Stockholm School of Economics and HEC Paris, he built his early career at the junction of finance and economic transition. He first worked in mergers and acquisitions before becoming closely involved in Russia’s 1990s privatisation process, advising the government as it sought to bring the programme closer to Western financial compliance standards and strengthen its credibility with foreign investors. For Andersson, Russia became more than an early market opportunity, serving as the proving ground for the networks, judgement and execution skills that would later shape his investment strategy across Central Asia.

In 1993, he helped launch Brunswick Brokerage in Moscow, an important platform for international investors entering the Russian market before it was later acquired by UBS. He subsequently chaired Brunswick UBS Warburg, placing him close to the development of Russia’s capital markets during an era defining period of economic change.  Over the following decades, he took on leadership roles in sectors spanning mining, energy and infrastructure. These included his position as a shareholder and board member of Siberian Coal Energy Company, SUEK, one of Russia’s largest thermal coal producers, from 2006 to 2013, at a time when foreign participation in major Russian strategic industries required both financial credibility and a high degree of local trust.

These Russian ventures gave him a level of regional fluency that set him apart from many Western investors in the former Soviet space. Across Russia, he combined financial discipline with practical experience on the ground, leading investments and mining projects that required close engagement with authorities, business partners and local stakeholders. Over time, his command of these markets, understanding of local business culture and ability to navigate complex operating environments became central to his approach.

This breadth of experience later found a clear expression in Kyrgyzstan, where Andersson shifted his attention after exiting Russian-related business activity following Russia’s annexation of Crimea. As Executive Chairman of Chaarat Gold between 2016 and 2024, he led the development of major mining assets across Kyrgyzstan’s Tien Shan Gold Belt, managing projects representing approximately 6.4 million ounces of gold resources and guiding plans for annual production of around 95,000 ounces at the Tulkubash mine. Crucially, his role at Charaat was not simply financial, but also involved aligning international investors, regional authorities and operational teams around a long-term production pathway rather than short-term speculation — an approach supported by his work with the Kyrgyz government and the EBRD to advance early FDI promotion efforts.

Beyond announcements

With Europe now critically reassessing its engagement with Central Asia, the experience of investors like Andersson are particularly relevant: capital entering the region must avoid treating it as a short-term supply-chain fix. In mining, that means looking beyond intent and announcements, as mining investment often remains trapped in the language of licences acquired, memorandums signed, financing discussed and reserves described. But for host countries, the real test is whether projects reach production, create jobs, support infrastructure and generate lasting economic value. As the World Bank has noted, the challenge for resource-rich countries is turning minerals and metals into stronger institutions and long-term prosperity.

Mining projects, in other words, cannot be treated as passive financial instruments. They require operational credibility and sustained engagement over time. Geology is only one part of the equation: financing, permitting, community engagement, logistics, workforce development and government are equally decisive in a project’s success. In Central Asia, where projects sit at the intersection of national development and foreign investment, these factors shape outcomes as much as the resource itself.

A more balanced European approach

Against this backdrop, Britain and indeed the EU’s renewed attention to Central Asia offers a positive signal. In February, London hosted the first ministerial meeting under the new CA5+UK format, bringing together the UK and the five Central Asian states — Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan — to focus on trade, investment, critical minerals and regional connectivity. This new format signals a shift from occasional diplomatic engagement to a more structured long-term approach, one that recognises Central Asia as a strategic partner in Europe’s economic resilience.

Europe should now build on this shift. In practice, this will mean moving beyond delegations and framework agreements, with stronger support for project finance, technical partnerships, geological exploration, processing capacity and infrastructure, and a clear recognition that serious mining investment does not move at the speed of political rhetoric.

While Central Asia will not solve Europe’s raw materials challenge on its own, it must be part of a more mature strategy built on diversification, operational credibility and long-term commitment. Investors such as Andersson have proven that this approach was always possible if it can be done credibly. The difference now is that governments are finally beginning to recognise its strategic necessity.

Instead of new slogans about strategic autonomy, Europe needs to invest in the people, projects and partnerships that turn resources into production and partnerships into lasting economic value. Central Asia has been waiting for that seriousness for a long time.

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SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. — Nearly 30 years after Kristin Smart vanished from the Cal Poly campus, investigators executed a new search warrant at the Arroyo Grande home of Susan Flores, mother of convicted killer Paul Flores, after scientific equipment detected signs consistent with human decomposition on the property. The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Thursday that the search will continue as authorities work to determine if the long-missing college student’s remains are buried there.

The renewed effort, which began Wednesday, May 6, 2026, marks the latest dramatic chapter in one of California’s most enduring cold cases. Scientists using specialized equipment detected volatile organic compounds associated with human decomposition on the Flores property and an adjacent yard. While no physical remains have been recovered yet, the sheriff’s office described the findings as significant enough to justify the new warrant and continued excavation.

Sheriff’s officials emphasized they remain committed to bringing Kristin home to her family. “The Sheriff’s Office is conducting an additional investigation into the property in the 500 block of East Branch Street in Arroyo Grande in relation to the disappearance of Kristin Smart,” the department said in a statement. Deputies and forensic specialists were seen on scene Thursday using ground-penetrating radar, soil sampling equipment, and cadaver dogs.

Paul Flores was convicted in 2022 of Smart’s murder and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. His father, Ruben Flores, was acquitted of being an accessory after the fact. Despite the conviction, Smart’s body has never been found, leaving her family without full closure after three decades of agony.

Renewed Hope and Heartbreak for the Smart Family

Kristin’s mother, Denise Smart, and other family members have been closely monitoring the search. A family spokesperson said they are in regular contact with investigators and appreciate the sheriff’s office persistence. The renewed activity has brought a mix of cautious hope and emotional exhaustion to those who have waited nearly 30 years for answers.

The property in question was previously searched in 2000, but new technology and fresh investigative leads prompted this week’s warrant. Scientists involved in the effort have been testing soil for human-specific decomposition markers, a method that has helped solve other long-cold cases.

Background of the Case

Kristin Smart, an 19-year-old freshman at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, was last seen on May 25, 1996, after attending a party. She was walking back to her dorm when she disappeared. Paul Flores, then a fellow student, was long considered the prime suspect. In 2022, after years of investigation and a high-profile trial, a jury convicted him of murder despite the absence of a body — a rare outcome in California.

The case has captivated the public for decades, inspiring books, documentaries, and relentless advocacy from Kristin’s family and friends. Multiple searches over the years, including at landfills and coastal areas, have failed to locate her remains until the latest focused effort at the Flores family property.

Community and National Attention

The San Luis Obispo community has rallied around the Smart family once again. Yellow ribbons and signs of support have reappeared throughout the area. National media outlets have descended on the small Central Coast city, shining a fresh spotlight on a case that has never faded from public memory.

Elizabeth Smart, the abduction survivor who has become a prominent advocate, has publicly expressed support for the Smart family and offered hope that this search could finally bring answers. Many other missing persons advocates have echoed her call for continued persistence.

What Happens Next

The search at the East Branch Street property is expected to last at least two days, with specialists carefully excavating and testing soil samples. If human remains are confirmed, they will be sent for DNA analysis to determine identity. Even without immediate discovery, investigators say every piece of new evidence helps build a clearer picture of what happened nearly three decades ago.

Paul Flores maintains his innocence and has appealed his conviction. His legal team has not commented on the latest search. Susan Flores has not been charged with any crime in connection with the case.

For the Smart family, each new development brings renewed pain and renewed hope. Denise Smart has said repeatedly that she will never stop searching for her daughter until she is brought home. Thursday’s activity at the Flores property represents the latest step in that long journey.

As the search continues, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with information to come forward. The case remains open and active, with investigators determined to provide the Smart family with the answers they have sought for nearly 30 years. Whether this latest effort yields Kristin’s remains or new leads, it underscores the enduring commitment to justice in one of California’s most haunting missing persons cases.

When speed is essential in property or business finance, bridging loans offer a powerful short-term solution.

Designed to “bridge” financial gaps, they allow buyers, developers, and investors to act quickly, whether securing auction properties, completing refurbishments, or finalizing time-sensitive deals. Choosing the right lender can make all the difference, especially when deadlines are tight.

Below are five of the top fast bridging loan companies in the UK, starting with a standout leader.

Mercantile Trust

Leading the list is Mercantile Trust, a lender known for its fast, reliable, and highly tailored approach to bridging finance. Rather than offering rigid, one-size-fits-all products, Mercantile Trust focuses on bespoke solutions that align with each borrower’s unique needs.

This flexibility allows for quicker approvals and smoother completions, making it ideal for property investors who need funding without delays. Whether it’s acquisition, refinancing, or development funding, Mercantile Trust prioritizes clear communication and efficient processes, helping clients move forward with confidence.

MT Finance

MT Finance delivers quick decisions and straightforward bridging loans for both residential and commercial customers, including individual investors and experienced developers. Their services include loans for property purchases, refinancing, and chain-break solutions where timing gaps occur in property transactions. They also provide auction finance, enabling borrowers to secure properties quickly after a successful bid. MT Finance supports light refurbishment projects, offering funding for properties that require minor improvements before resale or refinancing.

West One Loans

West One Loans provides specialist bridging finance across a variety of property sectors, meaning borrowers with unique financial situations or complex cases, such as properties with non-standard construction or unusual legal circumstances, often use their services. Their services include short-term loans for residential purchases, commercial property acquisitions, and refinancing arrangements. In addition, West One Loans offers refurbishment funding for both light and semi-heavy renovation projects.

LendInvest

LendInvest has a technology-driven approach to property finance, delivering bridging loans through a digitally managed platform that focuses on efficiency in application and processing. As they also offer integrated services, this allows borrowers to transition from bridging finance to buy-to-let mortgages, creating a more continuous funding pathway for property investors. Experienced investors often use their services to access competitive lending options, including short-term financing for property purchases, refinancing, and development exit loans.

Octane Capital

Octane Capital is well known for providing bridging finance for a wide range of property scenarios, including complex and non-standard transactions. Their services include loans for residential and commercial acquisitions, as well as refinancing solutions, but instead of relying on fixed products, they tailor each loan to the borrower’s specific requirements. This means they can often accommodate properties that may not meet traditional lending criteria, such as those requiring significant improvement or with unusual characteristics.

Why Fast Bridging Loans Matter

In many property transactions, timing is everything. Delays can mean missed opportunities, lost deposits, or increased costs. Fast bridging loans help eliminate these risks by providing quick access to funds when they’re needed most.

Unlike traditional financing options, bridging lenders focus on speed, flexibility, and short-term solutions. This allows borrowers to act decisively, whether purchasing a property at auction or securing a deal before competitors.

Final Thoughts

The UK bridging loan market offers a variety of strong lenders, each with its own strengths. However, Mercantile Trust stands out as the top choice thanks to its combination of speed, flexibility, and personalized service.

By choosing the right lender, borrowers can unlock opportunities and navigate time-sensitive transactions with confidence, ensuring they stay ahead in a fast-moving market.

Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, said that the newly created Trump accounts for newborns and young Americans could pave the way for reforms to Social Security in the future.

Cruz spoke at an event during the Milken Institute Global Conference and said that the Trump accounts, which were created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act last year and officially open this summer, will set an example that could build support for similar accounts geared towards retirement like Social Security.

“Here’s the dirty little secret: Trump accounts are Social Security personal accounts,” the senator said.

Cruz said that Trump accounts will end up accumulating enough money in the years ahead that parents will want to have an account of their own and may be willing to support a change that would have their payroll taxes go into one in the next five to 10 years.

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Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, said that Trump accounts could be a case study that enables Social Security reforms in the future. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

“We’re going to be able to go to parents and say, ‘Hey, you know that Trump account your kid has? Wouldn’t you like to be able to keep a portion of your tax payments, that you’re paying already, and instead of sending it to Uncle Sam, wouldn’t you like to have a Trump account just like your kid does?’” Cruz said.

The senator noted that efforts to reform Social Security have long encountered resistance and added, “Conservatives in America, for 50 years… have been trying to do Social Security personal accounts.”

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President Donald Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act into law last year which created Trump accounts. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

The most significant Social Security reform proposal came during the second term of former President George W. Bush, whose plan would’ve reformed Social Security by allowing Americans to invest some of their taxable earnings and payroll taxes in low-cost stock market index funds on a voluntary basis into a retirement account.

He said that Bush “tried this fight, and sadly, Congress ran for the hills in a display of extraordinary cowardice.”

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Social Security is trending toward insolvency in less than a decade. (Mark Felix/The Washington Post)

“How did we get it done this time? Because we gave the money to babies, and so the old people didn’t get pissed. But you know what? Babies grow up,” Cruz said.

Social Security is trending toward insolvency, with its main trust fund projected to be depleted in 2032 as spending on the growing ranks of retired beneficiaries rises faster than the pace of growth in payroll tax revenues.

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That would trigger automatic benefit cuts for beneficiaries, as Social Security would be limited by law to only pay out the proceeds of payroll taxes once the trust fund is tapped out. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimated that benefits would be cut up to 28% annually if Congress doesn’t act.