‘We both feel it is an extraordinary privilege and an honour’

Peter Lord and David Sproxton, the co-founders of Bristol animation studio Aardman, said receiving knighthoods was “an extraordinary privilege and an honour.”

Both men were knighted in the King’s Birthday Honours for services to the animation industry, the creative industries and to charity.

The Oscar-winning studio they founded is responsible for Wallace & Gromit, Shaun The Sheep, Chicken Run and Morph.

In a joint statement to the Press Association, they said: “We both feel it is an extraordinary privilege and an honour – as well as a complete and utter surprise – to be recognised in this way.

“Whilst the honour is being awarded to us as individuals, it really reflects on Aardman as a company.

“Over 50 years we have worked with hundreds, if not thousands, of brilliant people whose dedication, talent and skills have contributed to making Aardman a globally recognised and multi-award-winning studio, and one regarded by many as a national treasure here in the UK.

“As we accept these awards, we humbly bow and salute all of those who have joined us on this extraordinary journey.”

Sir David and Sir Peter established the studio in 1972 and have steered the business from a two-person operation to one of the industry’s leading animation houses. Sir David co-produced a string of celebrated Aardman productions, including the studio’s debut feature film Chicken Run, Wallace & Gromit: The Curse Of The Were-Rabbit, the CGI feature Flushed Away, Shaun The Sheep Movie, Early Man and A Shaun The Sheep Movie: Farmageddon.

As a director, Sir Peter has earned two Oscar nominations for best animated short, the first coming in 1992 for Adam, followed by Wat’s Pig in 1996.

He also received a best animated feature nomination for Pirates! In An Adventure With Scientists in 2013.

Further recognition came in the form of Bafta nominations for Adam, The Amazing Adventures Of Morph, War Story and Chicken Run, as well as a producer nomination for Wallace & Gromit: The Curse Of The Were-Rabbit.

DALLAS — Daichi Kamada scored a deflected equalizer in the 89th minute as Japan fought back to earn a thrilling 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their Group F opener at the 2026 World Cup on Sunday at Dallas Stadium.

The result highlighted the competitive balance in an expanded tournament, with Japan showing resilience against a favored Dutch side that had taken the lead twice. The match delivered high-quality football under sweltering conditions, reinforcing the World Cup’s reputation for unpredictability and excitement despite pre-tournament concerns about player fatigue and logistics.

Kamada’s goal, which came off a corner kick and a header from Koki Ogawa, sparked wild celebrations as the Japanese bench emptied onto the pitch. The late drama capped a match that saw the Netherlands dominate possession early but struggle to contain Japan’s counterattacking threat.

Match Summary and Key Moments

The Netherlands took the lead five minutes into the second half when Virgil van Dijk powered home a finely angled header that bounced in off the far post. Japan responded quickly, equalizing six minutes later through Keito Nakamura’s deflected strike from the right flank.

Crysencio Summerville restored the Dutch advantage in the 64th minute with a superb curling left-footed shot into the far corner after collecting a pass from Ryan Gravenberch. Japan refused to yield, maintaining pressure and earning the late reward through Kamada’s clinical finish.

Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu acknowledged the challenge after the match. “The Netherlands are a top-class international team. Look at the Fifa rankings, there’s quite a difference. But we can look back at today’s match and learn from the Dutch and enhance our power.”

The Dutch controlled much of the first half with 67% possession and superior passing accuracy, creating early chances through Donyell Malen. Goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made several key saves to keep Japan in contention, including denying a close-range header from Malen.

Japan’s high-pressing style created dangerous moments, particularly on the flanks. The game featured hydration breaks that provided tactical resets, though one such pause appeared to disrupt Japan’s momentum after their first equalizer.

Historical and Tournament Context

This draw adds to Japan’s strong recent World Cup performances, where they have consistently punched above expectations. The result leaves Group F wide open, setting up intriguing matchups in the remaining group stage games.

For the Netherlands, the stalemate represented a missed opportunity to claim early control in a tough group. Ronald Koeman’s side showed flashes of quality but lacked the clinical edge needed to secure all three points against a determined opponent.

The match at Dallas Stadium, a modern venue with a vast glass roof, provided an impressive backdrop despite the intense heat. The atmosphere was electric, with passionate support from both sets of fans creating a memorable World Cup spectacle.

Broader Implications for World Cup 2026

The opening week of the tournament has defied some pre-event skepticism regarding player tiredness and logistical challenges. Full stadiums and competitive matches have contributed to an engaging start, reminding observers of football’s enduring global appeal.

Japan’s performance exemplified the depth and competitiveness introduced by the 48-team format. Their tactical discipline and ability to capitalize on set pieces proved decisive in securing a valuable point against higher-ranked opposition.

The Netherlands will look to bounce back in subsequent fixtures, leveraging their technical quality and experience. Both teams demonstrated why they remain dangerous contenders, with the draw likely to fuel intense competition as the group stage progresses.

Tactical Analysis and Player Performances

Van Dijk’s aerial prowess and leadership were evident for the Dutch, while Frenkie de Jong provided composure in midfield. Summerville’s goal showcased his creative threat on the wing. For Japan, Suzuki’s goalkeeping and the midfield energy from players like Nakamura were standout elements.

The game featured periods of cautious probing interspersed with sharp attacking transitions. Japan’s ability to absorb pressure and strike on the counter highlighted their evolution as a national team capable of competing with Europe’s traditional powers.

Coaches on both sides will analyze the tactical adjustments, particularly around set-piece defending and midfield control. The result offers learning opportunities as teams prepare for the demands of a condensed tournament schedule.

Fan and Cultural Impact

The match drew a full house, with vibrant support creating an electric atmosphere. Japanese fans celebrated passionately, while Dutch supporters showed characteristic enthusiasm despite the late concession. The event underscored the World Cup’s power to unite diverse audiences in celebration of the sport.

Local organizers in Dallas passed an early test in hosting a high-profile fixture, with the stadium’s facilities contributing to an enjoyable spectator experience. Such matches help build momentum for the tournament across North America.

Looking Ahead in Group F

With points shared, both teams remain in contention for advancement. The draw sets up compelling scenarios for the final round of group games, where every result could prove decisive. Japan will aim to build on their fighting spirit, while the Netherlands seek greater consistency to fulfill their pre-tournament expectations.

The 2026 World Cup continues to deliver compelling storylines, with underdogs challenging established favorites and producing moments of genuine drama. Sunday’s encounter in Dallas added another chapter to this narrative, showcasing football’s ability to captivate and surprise on the grandest stage.

As the tournament unfolds, matches like this reinforce the value of competitive balance and the universal language of the beautiful game. For Japan, the point represents a hard-earned reward and a platform for further progress. For the Netherlands, it serves as motivation to refine their approach in pursuit of deeper advancement.

TUCSON, Ariz. — An anonymous tip pointing to a possible mass grave site near Nogales in northern Mexico has injected new urgency into the investigation of missing Arizona woman Nancy Guthrie, prompting volunteer teams to resume searches in a region already known for multiple unmarked burials while authorities continue to urge caution more than four months after her disappearance.

The development adds a cross-border dimension to a case that has gripped public attention since the 84-year-old grandmother vanished from her Catalina Foothills home on Feb. 1. Despite extensive efforts involving local, state and federal agencies, no arrests have been made and her whereabouts remain unknown, with family members offering a $1 million reward for information leading to her recovery.

The latest tip was received by the volunteer search group Buscando Corazones, which has been active in the area. The group reported uncovering more than 25 unmarked graves and recovering at least 32 sets of human remains during operations in May. Following the new information, volunteers returned to scan remote creek beds and desert stretches on June 10, with another search planned for June 16. No confirmed connection to Guthrie has been established.

Pima County Sheriff’s Department officials acknowledged awareness of the Mexican tip but noted it has not yet been formally shared through official cross-border channels. Investigators described the case as “active and ongoing,” stressing that unverified tips require careful validation before being treated as evidence. The department continues to coordinate with the FBI and Mexican authorities as appropriate.

Background of the Disappearance

Guthrie was last seen at her home in the Tucson suburb. Surveillance footage released by authorities showed an unidentified masked individual at her door on the night she went missing, appearing to tamper with a doorbell camera. The video remains one of the few tangible leads suggesting possible foul play, though officials have not publicly identified a suspect or motive.

The case has drawn national interest partly due to Guthrie’s connection to her daughter, Savannah Guthrie, co-anchor of NBC’s “Today” show. The family has maintained a relatively low public profile on specifics while supporting reward efforts and appeals for information. The $1 million reward, one of the largest in recent missing persons cases, underscores the urgency and the family’s commitment to finding answers.

Nancy Guthrie is described as 5 feet 5 inches tall, approximately 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. Her disappearance has prompted widespread community vigils, yellow ribbon campaigns and continued media coverage across Arizona and beyond.

Volunteer and Cross-Border Challenges

Volunteer efforts like those by Buscando Corazones have become a notable feature of the investigation, filling gaps where official resources may be stretched across international boundaries. The group’s discoveries of multiple unmarked graves highlight the grim realities of border regions, where migration routes and criminal activity have led to numerous undocumented burials in the past.

However, authorities caution that linking any remains to Guthrie requires rigorous forensic processes, including DNA testing and coordination between U.S. and Mexican officials. The challenging terrain — remote desert areas with difficult access — complicates searches and increases the time needed to thoroughly investigate tips.

The Pima County Sheriff’s Department has previously faced questions about the initial response and evidence handling, though officials maintain a steady focus on following all credible leads. FBI involvement from early in the case has provided additional resources for digital forensics, financial tracking and international coordination.

Family Impact and Public Response

For Guthrie’s loved ones, the prolonged uncertainty has been agonizing. Savannah Guthrie has occasionally addressed the situation publicly while returning to her broadcasting duties, balancing personal grief with professional responsibilities. The family’s substantial reward aims to generate fresh leads and maintain public awareness as the case enters its fifth month.

Community support in Tucson has been strong, with yellow flowers placed near the family home and ongoing calls for tips. The case resonates deeply as it involves an elderly resident in a suburban setting, raising broader concerns about home security and vulnerability.

Online sleuths and true crime enthusiasts have also engaged heavily, sometimes leading to unintended consequences such as disturbances in the neighborhood. Officials have warned against amateur investigations that could compromise evidence or endanger participants.

Investigation Status and Next Steps

As of mid-June, no major breakthroughs have been announced beyond the steady pursuit of leads. The doorbell camera footage continues to be analyzed, and authorities are examining potential ransom notes and reported sightings, including some across the border. DNA evidence from the scene has been processed, but details remain limited to protect the integrity of the probe.

The Mexico tip represents the latest in a series of developments that have kept the case in the public eye. While volunteer searches provide additional eyes on the ground, formal validation through law enforcement channels is essential for any potential identification.

Experts in missing persons cases note that as time passes, the likelihood of a safe recovery diminishes, shifting focus toward accountability and closure for the family. Cross-border cooperation adds layers of complexity due to differing legal systems and resource constraints, but joint task forces have proven effective in similar cases.

Broader Context of Missing Persons Cases

Guthrie’s disappearance is one of thousands reported annually in the United States, with elderly individuals and border-region cases often presenting unique challenges. Organizations like the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and various adult-focused groups emphasize the importance of rapid response, community involvement and sustained media attention.

The $1 million reward places this case among the highest-profile in recent memory, potentially motivating tips that might otherwise go unreported. However, experts caution that large rewards can also attract false leads, requiring careful vetting by investigators.

As searches continue in both the U.S. and Mexico, the case serves as a sobering reminder of vulnerabilities in everyday life and the difficulties of resolving abductions without immediate witnesses or digital trails. For the Guthrie family and the Tucson community, the hope for resolution persists amid growing calls for answers.

Pima County authorities and the FBI continue to solicit tips from the public. Anyone with information is urged to contact the sheriff’s department or the FBI tip line. As the investigation advances, officials remain committed to pursuing every avenue, no matter how challenging the terrain or distant the leads may be.

The latest Mexico tip has reinvigorated efforts in a case marked by persistence and frustration. While no immediate breakthrough has emerged, the renewed activity underscores the determination of both volunteers and law enforcement to bring closure to Nancy Guthrie’s family after months of painful waiting.

SpaceX continues to dominate the commercial space sector with unmatched launch frequency, reusability achievements and operational scale, while Blue Origin has made notable strides with its New Glenn rocket but remains significantly behind in overall capability and market impact as of mid-2026.

The rivalry between Elon Musk’s SpaceX and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin has defined much of the new space era, with both companies pursuing reusable rocket technology and ambitious lunar goals. However, metrics across launches, contracts, revenue generation and technological milestones show SpaceX maintaining a substantial advantage, though Blue Origin’s steady progress with New Glenn signals growing competition in the heavy-lift market.

SpaceX has conducted hundreds of orbital launches with its Falcon 9 fleet, achieving routine reusability and rapid turnaround times that have dramatically reduced costs. The company’s Starlink constellation generates substantial recurring revenue, and its Starship program aims for fully reusable architecture capable of carrying massive payloads. Blue Origin, by contrast, achieved its first successful New Glenn booster landing on its second flight in late 2025 and has conducted a limited number of orbital missions.

Launch Records and Operational Tempo

SpaceX’s Falcon 9 has become the workhorse of the industry, launching dozens of missions annually with high reliability. The company’s cadence far exceeds any competitor, enabling it to capture the majority of commercial and government payloads. Starship, despite development challenges including regulatory reviews and test anomalies, represents a generational leap in payload capacity.

Blue Origin’s New Glenn, a heavy-lift vehicle with seven BE-4 engines, successfully landed its booster on its second flight and has deployed payloads including NASA missions. While impressive, the rocket’s flight rate remains far below SpaceX levels, with plans to scale production and operations still in early stages. Industry analysts note that Blue Origin’s methodical approach contrasts with SpaceX’s rapid iteration philosophy.

Government Contracts and Lunar Ambitions

Both companies compete for NASA Artemis program contracts. SpaceX secured the initial human landing system award for Starship, while Blue Origin has positioned its Blue Moon lander as a complementary or alternative option. NASA has opened opportunities for multiple providers to reduce reliance on any single company, fostering competition that benefits the overall program.

SpaceX holds a commanding lead in NASA and Department of Defense contracts, with billions awarded for crew, cargo and national security launches. Blue Origin has secured important engine contracts and is expanding its role, but trails in total value and flight heritage.

Valuation, Funding and Market Position

SpaceX’s recent IPO and massive valuation reflect investor confidence in its diversified business model, including Starlink broadband and AI-related infrastructure. The company’s public status provides transparency and capital access that Blue Origin, still privately held, does not yet match.

Blue Origin benefits from Jeff Bezos’ substantial personal investment and a patient, long-term philosophy. The company has made progress on New Glenn reusability and suborbital New Shepard flights, but its overall launch tempo and revenue scale lag SpaceX significantly.

Technological and Strategic Differences

SpaceX emphasizes rapid development, accepting failures as learning opportunities to accelerate progress. This approach enabled first-of-kind achievements like booster landings and crewed commercial flights. Blue Origin prioritizes methodical engineering and safety margins, resulting in fewer but carefully executed milestones.

Both pursue lunar ambitions, with SpaceX targeting ambitious timelines for Starship-based missions and Blue Origin focusing on sustainable infrastructure through New Glenn and Blue Moon. The rivalry has accelerated innovation across the sector, benefiting NASA and commercial customers through increased options and lower costs.

Broader Industry Impact

The competition has transformed the space economy. SpaceX’s cost reductions have opened new markets for satellite deployment and crewed missions. Blue Origin’s advancements contribute to supply chain diversity and technological redundancy, reducing single-provider risks for government and commercial users.

Analysts expect the gap to narrow as Blue Origin scales New Glenn operations, but SpaceX’s head start in reusability, flight rate and ecosystem integration provides a formidable lead. Future success for both will depend on execution, regulatory environments and ability to attract talent and capital.

The SpaceX-Blue Origin dynamic exemplifies how billionaire-backed ventures can drive progress while highlighting different philosophies: rapid iteration versus deliberate development. As the commercial space sector matures, their rivalry continues pushing boundaries, with benefits extending to scientific discovery, national security and human expansion beyond Earth.

While SpaceX currently leads on most operational and financial metrics, Blue Origin’s focused progress suggests a competitive landscape that could evolve significantly in coming years. Both companies play vital roles in America’s space ambitions, contributing to a vibrant ecosystem that promises continued advancement in humanity’s reach into space.

Shares of the company jumped to Rs 56.78 apiece on NSE. The stock has gained more than 7% in 2026 so far and 289% in three years.

Motilal Oswal on Suzlon Energy

Analysts from Motilal Oswal Financial Services attended Suzlon Energy’s Investor Day, where management outlined an ambitious FY31 vision focused on scaling the company beyond its core wind business into a broader renewable energy platform. The domestic brokerage highlighted that the company is aiming for a revenue growth of over 25% CAGR, expansion of its Indian wind market share to over 40% (from 33% currently), achieving a 15% market share in the solar and BESS segments, scaling its renewable energy (RE) order book from 5.5 GW now to 15 GW, increasing annual RE sales from 2.5 GW now to 10 GW, expanding its RE Operations & Maintenance Services (OMS) assets under management (AUM) to over 70 GW from 18 GW currently and strengthening international presence, with over 3 GW of export volumes contributing 15% of revenue.

“We believe Suzlon Energy’s Investor Day addressed key medium to long-term growth concerns by outlining a clear roadmap for expansion and diversification into adjacent renewable energy verticals, which enhance earnings resilience. While the strategic direction is encouraging, investors are likely to remain focused on execution, capital allocation discipline, and the trajectory of working capital and leverage metrics. We believe Suzlon Energy continues to stand out as the most credible and investible player in the Indian wind space, supported by its strong market position and consistent track record of meeting execution and operational guidance,” it added.

Motilal reiterated its ‘Buy’ call on the shares of Suzlon Energy, with a target price of Rs 65 per share. This implies an upside potential of more than 18% from the stock’s previous closing price.

JM Financial highlighted that India requires 10 GW of annual wind power additions by 2030. Historically, Suzlon commands a one-third market share, driven by its technological leadership, manufacturing excellence, and robust lifetime product support, it further said, adding that the new variable is Suzlon 2.0, a meaningful pivot from being a turbine supplier to an integrated RE developer spanning all technologies, and AMS through an RE project development company (DevCo), which can significantly expand addressable revenue/MW.

Also read: Vedanta Aluminium lists at Rs 527 on BSE after demerger. Is it the group’s new crown jewel?

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“The AMS annuity target of 70GW versus 18GW presently is the highest-quality earnings stream in the mix. If executed well, the most important earnings driver over the next 3- 5 years may not be turbine deliveries alone, but the expansion of the 70GW+ AMS and integrated RE solutions business, which could materially improve revenue visibility, margins and valuation multiples,” it said.
The domestic brokerage maintained its ‘Buy’ call on the stock, with a target price of Rs 65 per share, same as Motilal Oswal.

Other brokerages on Suzlon Energy share price

Systematix Institutional Equities also has a ‘Buy’ call on the stock with a target price of Rs 71 per share, implying an upside potential of nearly 29%. Centrum meanwhile has a ‘Buy’ call with a target price of Rs 75, implying an upside potential of 36%.
Also read: Why is market rallying today?

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

SYDNEY — Commonwealth Bank of Australia shares climbed 1.43% to close at $161.79 on Monday, extending recent gains as investors showed renewed confidence in the nation’s largest lender amid stabilizing economic signals and broader market optimism following positive geopolitical developments.

The rise came as the S&P/ASX 200 index posted solid gains, with financial stocks benefiting from improved risk appetite across global markets. CBA’s performance reflects resilience in Australia’s banking sector despite ongoing pressures from interest rates, housing market dynamics and regulatory changes.

Commonwealth Bank, a bellwether for the Australian economy, has navigated a complex environment marked by moderating inflation, variable consumer spending and competitive pressures in home lending. Monday’s uptick helped recoup some of the volatility seen earlier in the year, when shares faced headwinds from federal budget measures affecting property investment and concerns over loan arrears.

Market Drivers Behind the Gain

Analysts pointed to several factors supporting the session’s advance. Easing geopolitical tensions, particularly prospects around U.S.-Iran relations, contributed to a broader relief rally that lifted commodity prices and financial stocks. Improved global sentiment reduced pressure on bank balance sheets exposed to cyclical risks.

CBA has maintained a strong capital position and consistent dividend payouts, appealing to income-focused investors in a yield-sensitive market. The bank’s ongoing investments in technology and artificial intelligence, including the appointment of a chief AI scientist, are viewed as forward-looking moves to enhance operational efficiency and customer offerings in an increasingly digital banking landscape.

Recent first-half results highlighted record cash earnings driven by market share gains in home loans, business lending and deposits. While operating expenses rose due to technology investments and inflation, the bank’s ability to grow revenue amid a challenging environment underscored its defensive qualities.

Challenges and Strategic Outlook

The Australian banking sector continues to face headwinds. Higher interest rates have cooled housing activity, while budget changes to negative gearing have raised concerns about future loan demand and property prices. Analysts have trimmed forecasts for some banks, citing potential slowdowns in credit growth and rising arrears in consumer portfolios.

For CBA specifically, management has signaled a cautious but optimistic outlook. Focus remains on disciplined cost management, digital transformation and maintaining asset quality. The bank’s diversified operations across retail, business and institutional banking provide buffers against sector-specific pressures.

Longer-term, opportunities in wealth management, payments innovation and sustainable finance are expected to drive growth. CBA’s scale and brand strength position it well to capture market share as smaller competitors face margin compression.

Broader ASX Banking Sector Performance

Other major banks also traded higher, contributing to the financials index advance. The sector’s resilience reflects Australia’s relatively stable economic fundamentals, including solid employment data and contained inflation. However, analysts caution that sustained gains will depend on the trajectory of Reserve Bank of Australia policy and global growth conditions.

The ASX 200’s recent movements have been influenced by commodity prices, with mining stocks often moving in tandem or opposition to financials depending on risk sentiment. Monday’s broad-based buying suggested a return to risk-on trading after periods of caution.

Investor Considerations and Valuation

At current levels, CBA trades at a premium valuation compared to historical averages, reflecting its market leadership and earnings consistency. Dividend yields remain attractive for long-term holders, with the bank maintaining a strong payout ratio supported by robust capital generation.

Analysts offer a mix of views, with some highlighting potential downside risks from housing market softness while others emphasize the bank’s ability to adapt and grow through economic cycles. Consensus targets suggest moderate upside potential, though near-term volatility tied to economic data releases cannot be ruled out.

Investors are advised to consider diversification, macroeconomic indicators and individual risk tolerance when evaluating bank stocks. CBA’s track record of navigating challenges provides reassurance, but past performance does not guarantee future results.

Company Background and Strategic Initiatives

Commonwealth Bank of Australia, founded in 1911 and fully privatized in the 1990s, serves millions of customers across retail, business and institutional segments. The bank has invested heavily in digital platforms to enhance customer experience and operational efficiency.

Recent initiatives include expanded AI capabilities to improve fraud detection, personalized services and internal processes. These investments, while increasing short-term costs, are expected to deliver productivity gains and competitive advantages over time.

Sustainability efforts, including climate-related disclosures and support for renewable energy transitions, align with growing stakeholder expectations and regulatory requirements. The bank’s community programs and financial literacy initiatives further strengthen its social license to operate.

Economic Context in Australia

Australia’s economy has shown resilience amid global uncertainties, with strong labor markets supporting consumer spending. However, cost-of-living pressures, elevated interest rates and a softening property market present challenges for banks and households alike.

The Reserve Bank of Australia continues to monitor inflation and growth indicators closely, with markets pricing limited near-term rate adjustments. This environment favors banks with strong deposit bases and prudent lending standards, characteristics that define CBA.

Looking Ahead

As the financial year progresses, attention will turn to upcoming economic data, corporate earnings and any policy developments. For CBA, key focus areas include loan growth trends, net interest margin management and execution of technology strategies.

The bank’s ability to balance growth with risk management will be critical in sustaining investor confidence. With a solid foundation and proactive approach to industry trends, Commonwealth Bank remains well-placed among Australian financial institutions.

Monday’s share price increase reflects positive market sentiment but also underscores the importance of monitoring broader economic signals. Investors will watch closely for confirmation of sustained momentum in the weeks ahead.

CBA’s performance continues to serve as a key indicator for the health of Australia’s banking sector and overall economy. As the institution adapts to evolving customer needs and technological advancements, its trajectory will influence market perceptions of financial stability and growth prospects in the region.