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Elon Musk’s SpaceX has attracted more than $70 billion in orders from retail investors ahead of its highly anticipated stock market debut, Bloomberg News reported on Thursday. According to the report, individual investors are expected to receive at least 20% of the shares on offer.

The strong retail participation comes ahead of what is set to become the largest IPO in history. SpaceX is scheduled to begin trading on Nasdaq on Friday under the ticker symbol SPCX after pricing its shares at $135 each.

The company is raising about $75 billion through the offering, which values the rocket and satellite communications company at roughly $1.77 trillion. At that valuation, SpaceX would rank among the ten most valuable listed companies in the United States.

Investor appetite for the offering has been strong. Reuters reported earlier this week that total demand for the IPO had crossed $250 billion, more than three times the shares available.

Also Read | SpaceX’s blockbuster IPO could turn more than 4,000 employees into millionaires. Here’s how

One of the unusual features of the offering has been the large allocation earmarked for retail investors. Reuters had previously reported that SpaceX was considering setting aside as much as 30% of the issue for individual investors, a rare move for a mega IPO that is typically dominated by institutional buyers.
The offering consists entirely of newly issued shares, meaning all proceeds will go to the company rather than existing shareholders. Current investors are not selling stock in the IPO and will remain subject to lock-up restrictions after listing.The listing is being closely watched not only because of its size but also because it offers public investors their first opportunity to invest directly in what many consider the crown jewel of Musk’s business empire.

SpaceX has evolved far beyond its rocket-launch business. Its operations now span satellite broadband through Starlink, commercial space transportation, defence contracts and artificial intelligence infrastructure through xAI.

Despite the excitement surrounding the offering, the company remains loss-making. SpaceX reported revenue of $18.67 billion in 2025 while posting a net loss of $4.94 billion. Investors are betting that future growth from Starlink, launch services, AI infrastructure and defence-related businesses will justify the company’s lofty valuation.

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The IPO is also expected to benefit from recent changes to US index rules. Nasdaq now allows large-cap IPOs to enter the Nasdaq-100 index after just 15 trading days, potentially creating additional demand from passive funds that track the benchmark.

For Indian investors, direct participation in the IPO was largely unavailable because the US book-building process does not offer a mechanism similar to India’s ASBA system. However, they will be able to buy SpaceX shares after listing through international investing platforms and GIFT City’s NSE IX platform.

Capital markets regulator Sebi has proposed a new mechanism to harmonise price bands and pre-open auction prices for stocks listed on multiple exchanges, aiming to address price divergences that arise when a stock remains untraded on one exchange but continues to trade on another.

In a consultation paper released on Thursday, the market regulator said it has observed instances where illiquid stocks develop significantly different prices across exchanges because circuit limits continue to be calculated using stale closing prices on exchanges where no trading occurs.

Currently, stock exchanges independently apply price bands based on their own previous closing prices. While this works smoothly for actively traded stocks, SEBI noted that it can create distortions in stocks that do not trade on one exchange for several days.

The regulator illustrated a scenario where a stock continues to hit upper circuits and gain value on one exchange, while remaining stuck within an outdated price band on another exchange due to lack of trading. Over time, this can lead to substantial price divergence between the same stock across exchanges and may even result in non-trading on one platform.

To address the issue, Sebi has proposed a harmonised framework for determining both the base price used in the pre-open call auction session and the applicable price bands.

Under the proposal, if a stock trades on all exchanges or remains untraded on all exchanges on a particular day, each exchange will continue using its own latest closing price for calculating the next day’s price band.
However, if a stock trades on only one exchange, all other exchanges where the stock did not trade will be required to adopt the closing price from the exchange where trading occurred for setting the next day’s price bands and pre-open session base price.In cases where a stock trades on two or more exchanges but remains untraded on one or more others, the exchanges without trading activity will use the closing price from the exchange that recorded the highest trading volume in that stock.

The proposals stem from recommendations made by Sebi’s Secondary Market Advisory Committee (SMAC), which discussed the issue during its April 2026 meeting.

Sebi has also proposed that stock exchanges enter into agreements or other arrangements to facilitate the sharing of closing-price data and ensure smooth implementation of the framework.

The regulator said the move is intended to improve price discovery and prevent unnecessary price distortions in stocks listed on multiple trading venues.

Public comments on the consultation paper have been invited until July 2.

High drama today as President Trump called off the Iranian bombing and announced that a deal with Iran is imminent from his Truth Social posting that “Discussions and final points have been, in both concept and great detail, approved by all parties involved.” That’s America, Israel, Iran and all of the Gulf states involved in the war.

The president spoke about this today at the White House: “The Strait will officially open as soon as we sign, which could be soon. Very soon, maybe over the weekend in Europe.”

Stock markets soared; oil prices fell. Mr. Trump also noted on his Truth Social that “the Naval Blockade will remain in full force and effect until this Transaction is finalized.” 

And my great hope is that no money is given to Iran for a long time, until they prove that their behavior is changing. And frankly, while I applaud President Trump’s diplomatic endeavors — such as negotiating with bombs — I have nothing but skepticism about Iran following through on their promises.

Just yesterday, the United Nation’s nuclear watchdog blasted Iran for failing to allow inspection and verification of their weapons and their weapons-grade uranium. That’s an old story. 

And Mr. Trump, in whatever the deal turns out to be, is surely going to want complete denuclearization, some kind of end to their enriched uranium, as well as reopening the strait toll free and an end to Iran’s state sponsorship of terrorism in Israel and throughout the Middle East.

As President Reagan always said, trust but verify. And as both Reagan and Mr. Trump believe, peace through strength.

Meanwhile, one of the really neat developing stories, regardless of any Iranian deal, is Mr. Trump’s secret supply of oil tankers going through presumably the Oman Channel of the Hormuz Strait.

As Mr. Trump said yesterday and has corroborated by a number of oil watchdogs, some 200 ships transited the strait for a total of about 100 million barrels of oil over the past month. 

That comes to about 3 million barrels per day. Recall that world oil supply and demand intersect at about 100 million barrels per day.

And the prior closing of the Strait took about 20 percent, or about 20 million barrels per day, off the market. So the supply shortages drove oil prices way up.

Yet this story is surreptitiously changing. Mr. Trump riffed about it earlier today: “Over the last month, we’ve been, taking our ships, big ships, quietly at night. You guys didn’t know that? Pretty cool. Right? As a captain, he knows about more about ships than I do. But it’s pretty cool. He turned off the lights.” 

Mr. Trump added: “We bombed their radar and everything so they couldn’t see what was going on. And we took out, some nights, 25 ships, some nights, 15 days. Last 4 or 5 nights we did 25, 22, 21, 26, 18 and 14. Who else would remember those numbers? Nobody.” It’s “a lot of ships,” he concluded.

It’s a great story. Now administration sources tell me about a dozen ships per night are being moved through the strait. I’m doing some arithmetic now — that’s 360 a month. 

Using the same ratio of the first month’s secret passage, that will get us about 180 million additional barrels of oil which would come to roughly 6 million barrels a day. That’s big stuff. Remember we’re 20 million barrels short because of the closing of the Strait.

Now last month’s 3 million barrel, perhaps this month’s 6 million barrels, that’s 9 million additional barrels per day to reduce the 20 million barrel shortfall.

These extra oil supplies are bringing oil prices down in the market place and will continue on a steady basis if it keeps up. Gasoline prices will be following in tow.

It’s a silver lining for the temporary inflation bulge. And it’s gonna make stocks strong and over time, interest rates softer.

Mr. Trump’s secret sauce. Think of it.

NEW YORK — Elon Musk highlighted a Grok response as “Based Grok” in a widely shared post on X, laughing at the AI model’s candid and humorous take on a sensitive topic involving Amazon leadership and diversity practices.

Musk’s reaction, posted Thursday, quickly gained traction with thousands of likes and reposts, underscoring the ongoing conversation around Grok’s less censored approach compared to other AI systems. The exchange reflects Musk’s vision for Grok as a “maximum truth-seeking” AI that avoids heavy political correctness.

The specific Grok output that prompted Musk’s laughter addressed a query involving Amazon CEO Andy Jassy and broader corporate diversity initiatives. Grok delivered a sharp, meme-style response that pulled no punches, aligning with the “based” internet slang for unapologetically straightforward or anti-woke commentary.

Grok’s Distinctive Style

Grok, built by Musk’s xAI, is designed to be helpful, truthful and less restricted than competitors like ChatGPT. Musk has frequently contrasted Grok with other models, emphasizing its willingness to tackle controversial topics without defaulting to corporate safety filters.

In recent months, Grok has gained attention for responses that challenge mainstream narratives on politics, culture and corporate practices. Users have shared numerous examples of Grok providing direct answers where other AIs refuse or hedge. Musk’s endorsement amplifies these moments, positioning Grok as a counterweight to what he views as overly sanitized AI systems.

Context of the Viral Post

The post included a link to a Grok share featuring the AI’s take on the topic. Replies flooded in with users praising Grok’s “no filter” mode, sharing similar experiences and creating memes around the exchange. Some highlighted Grok’s ability to generate humorous, context-aware content that resonates with certain audiences.

Dan Bilzerian and other influencers amplified the post, contributing to its rapid spread. The interaction highlights how Grok has carved out a niche among users seeking less moderated AI interactions.

xAI’s Broader Mission

xAI, founded by Musk in 2023, aims to understand the universe and build AI that prioritizes truth over political or commercial pressures. Grok powers features across the X platform and is available to premium subscribers. The model has undergone several updates, with improvements in reasoning, humor and real-time knowledge integration.

Musk has positioned Grok as a “based” alternative in the AI landscape, frequently criticizing other systems for what he describes as excessive wokeness or censorship. This philosophy resonates with segments of X’s user base and has driven significant engagement for the platform.

Industry Reactions and Implications

The viral moment has sparked discussions about AI safety, bias and the role of humor in large language models. Critics argue that unfiltered responses risk spreading misinformation or harmful content, while supporters view Grok’s style as refreshing and more honest.

Major AI companies continue refining their guardrails, balancing helpfulness with responsibility. Grok’s approach represents a different philosophy — one that leans toward maximum curiosity and minimal censorship, with users ultimately responsible for interpreting outputs.

The exchange also underscores Musk’s influence across technology and media. As owner of X and leader of xAI, Tesla and SpaceX, his comments on AI carry significant weight and often drive industry conversations.

User Engagement and Cultural Reach

Posts praising Grok’s response generated substantial interaction, with users sharing screenshots, remixing content and debating the merits of different AI models. The humor in Grok’s reply — described by many as “cooking” or “unhinged in the best way” — contributed to its virality.

This type of engagement helps xAI gather feedback for model improvements while boosting visibility for Grok. The AI’s ability to produce timely, culturally relevant content strengthens its appeal among younger users and meme-savvy audiences.

Future of Grok and xAI

xAI continues developing Grok with plans for more advanced capabilities, including enhanced reasoning and multimodal features. Musk has teased upcoming versions that could rival or surpass current leaders in specific domains.

The company’s focus on truth-seeking aligns with Musk’s broader critiques of Big Tech and legacy media. As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, the debate over appropriate levels of filtering and bias will likely intensify.

For now, Musk’s “Based Grok” post serves as both entertainment and a statement of intent. It reinforces Grok’s brand as the AI willing to say what others won’t, for better or worse.

Public and Expert Views

Reactions from users ranged from amusement to thoughtful commentary on AI development. Some experts noted that while humor and directness are valuable, maintaining accuracy and avoiding harm remains crucial for any widely used system.

The incident adds to ongoing discussions about AI alignment, free speech and corporate responsibility in technology. Musk’s willingness to publicly engage with and endorse Grok’s outputs helps shape public perception of the tool.

As Grok evolves, its balance between helpfulness, truthfulness and entertainment will determine its long-term success. Musk’s active promotion ensures the model stays in the spotlight, driving both adoption and scrutiny.

The viral exchange between Musk and Grok exemplifies the dynamic, conversational nature of modern AI interactions. It also highlights how platform owners can directly influence product perception through personal engagement. As the AI landscape matures, moments like this will continue shaping user expectations and industry standards.

Grok’s unfiltered style has proven effective at generating buzz and loyalty among specific user segments. Whether this approach scales responsibly while maintaining quality will be a key test for xAI in the coming months. For now, the “Based Grok” moment provides another example of the AI’s ability to capture attention in a crowded digital space.

LOS ANGELES — Justin Bieber is signaling a potential return to the stage in 2026 after several years of limited live performances, with recent studio activity, an updated official tour page and industry discussions pointing toward a major comeback tour in North America and beyond.

The pop superstar, who canceled the remaining dates of his Justice world tour in 2022 due to Ramsay Hunt syndrome, has spent the past year focusing on health, family and selective creative work. According to multiple reports, Bieber has been logging studio time in Los Angeles with longtime collaborator Benny Blanco and other producers, suggesting new music is in development that could support a tour.

Industry sources indicate his team has held preliminary conversations with major promoters including Live Nation and AEG Presents about potential arena routing for 2026. While no official dates or venues have been announced, the refreshed tour section on Bieber’s website and increased social media activity have fueled speculation among fans and observers.

Health Recovery and Cautious Re-Entry

Bieber’s path back to touring has been deliberate. After the Ramsay Hunt diagnosis caused facial paralysis and forced him to step away from the road, the singer prioritized recovery and mental health. Recent appearances at private events and charity performances have served as low-pressure opportunities to test his stage readiness and vocal stamina.

These controlled outings have been viewed positively by those close to the situation, demonstrating that Bieber is rebuilding confidence without rushing into a full-scale production. Reports suggest any 2026 tour would incorporate more rest days and flexible scheduling to protect his well-being, reflecting a broader industry shift toward sustainable touring practices.

New Music as Foundation for Tour

Studio sessions with high-profile collaborators signal that Bieber is preparing material suited for live performance. His previous albums have blended pop, R&B and electronic elements, with hits like “Sorry,” “Love Yourself” and “Peaches” remaining streaming staples. New music could bridge his established catalog with current trends, helping re-engage both longtime fans and newer audiences.

A new project would likely be timed to support touring, following the traditional model where album releases drive ticket demand. Billboard and Variety have reported that Bieber’s team is organizing sessions with writers and producers aligned with contemporary pop and R&B, indicating a thoughtful evolution of his sound.

Tour Logistics and Potential Routing

If a 2026 tour materializes, it is expected to focus initially on major North American arenas, with possible expansion to stadiums in high-demand markets. Cities like New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami and Toronto would likely feature prominently, leveraging Bieber’s strong fan base in urban centers.

Festival appearances at events such as Coachella or Lollapalooza could serve as strategic warm-ups or headline slots. Promoters are reportedly exploring flexible routing that balances revenue potential with artist health considerations, including longer breaks between shows.

Ticket demand for a Bieber tour would likely be intense, with verified fan presales and dynamic pricing expected to manage inventory and reduce secondary market speculation. VIP packages offering early entry, soundchecks and merchandise could form a significant portion of revenue, consistent with modern pop touring economics.

Fanbase Evolution and Cultural Relevance

Bieber’s fanbase has matured alongside the artist. Many who discovered him as a teenager now follow him as adults, creating opportunities for more reflective and emotionally layered performances. His openness about mental health and personal struggles has strengthened connections with supporters who value authenticity.

The singer’s marriage to Hailey Bieber and recent public appearances have portrayed a more settled phase of life, potentially influencing the tone of new music and stage presentation. Fans have expressed excitement about a return that balances nostalgia with forward-looking material.

Industry Significance

A Bieber tour in 2026 would represent a major event for the live music sector, which has rebounded strongly post-pandemic but continues navigating challenges around artist wellness and ticket affordability. His ability to sell out arenas remains proven, and a successful run could set benchmarks for other pop acts planning comebacks.

Promoters view Bieber as a reliable draw with global appeal, capable of generating substantial gross revenue across multiple territories. The tour would also boost ancillary businesses including merchandise, hospitality and local economies in host cities.

Challenges and Considerations

Health remains the primary variable. Any tour would need to prioritize sustainable pacing to avoid repeating past issues. Production scale, travel logistics and vocal demands would be carefully calibrated based on medical guidance.

Competition for audience attention is fierce, with numerous major artists planning activity in 2026. Bieber’s strategy of building anticipation through selective appearances and new music could help cut through the noise and maximize impact.

Looking Ahead

While no official announcement has been made, the combination of studio work, website updates and promoter conversations strongly suggests movement toward a 2026 return. Fans are advised to monitor Bieber’s official channels for confirmed details, as premature speculation can lead to disappointment.

The potential tour represents more than a series of concerts — it symbolizes Bieber’s resilience and evolution as an artist who has navigated fame, health challenges and personal growth under intense public scrutiny. For many, it would mark a welcome reconnection with a performer whose music has soundtracked significant cultural moments over the past decade and a half.

As preparations continue behind the scenes, anticipation builds for what could be one of the most notable live music events of 2026. Bieber’s measured approach to re-entering the spotlight suggests a thoughtful, sustainable chapter that prioritizes longevity over immediate spectacle. The coming months will reveal whether the pieces align for a full-scale return to the stage that millions of fans have been awaiting.

Industry watchers expect further developments in the second half of 2026, potentially including new singles or visual content that teases the direction of the next era. For now, the signs point to a deliberate and promising buildup to Justin Bieber’s return to live performance, offering hope for fans eager to experience his catalog and new material in a concert setting once again.

The evolution of Bieber’s career from teen sensation to adult artist navigating health and personal priorities mirrors broader changes in the music industry. His potential 2026 tour could serve as a case study in sustainable stardom, balancing commercial success with personal well-being in an era where artist longevity is increasingly valued.

Shares of GNG Electronics witnessed a block deal worth about Rs 175 crore on Thursday, with multiple domestic mutual funds and foreign investors picking up shares in the recently listed refurbished electronics company. According to exchange data, Promoter Vidhi S Khandelwal sold 44.87 lakh shares of GNG Electronics at Rs 390 per share, taking the total transaction value to Rs 175 crore.

Among the prominent buyers was Motilal Oswal Equity Opportunities Fund Series II, which acquired 6.41 lakh shares. Other institutional investors participating in the transaction included Mirae Asset Mutual Fund, ITI Mutual Fund, Edelweiss Mutual Fund, Trust Mutual Fund, and Goldman Sachs Asia Equity Portfolio.

Mobius Investment Trust Plc and MCP Emerging Markets Fund LP also picked up stakes in the company.

Recently, Motilal Oswal initiated coverage on GNG Electronics with a positive outlook, highlighting the company’s leadership position in the global refurbished electronics market.

The brokerage said GNG Electronics has built a scaled refurbishment platform spanning about 46 countries, with nearly 95% of revenue generated through institutional and B2B channels. The company operates an integrated sourcing, refurbishment and distribution model, which helped it deliver a volume CAGR of around 43% between FY23 and FY26.

Motilal Oswal believes the refurbished personal computer market is entering a structural growth phase, supported by affordability, improving product reliability, AI-driven hardware replacement cycles and regulatory initiatives such as right-to-repair and extended producer responsibility (EPR) norms.
The brokerage noted that GNG’s in-house refurbishment capabilities allow advanced repairs, higher recovery rates and better realizations. Despite nearly tripling volumes over FY23-26, warranty-related costs have remained low, indicating strong process controls and execution.The broker expects the company to deliver a 26% revenue CAGR, 31% EBITDA CAGR and 36% profit CAGR between FY26 and FY28, driven by higher volumes, margin expansion, improving recovery economics and lower financing costs.

GNG Electronics operates under the “Electronics Bazaar” brand and is among the largest organized players in the refurbished ICT devices market, serving enterprises, retailers and distributors across global markets.

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

NEW YORK — U.S. stock futures climbed early Thursday after the United States conducted fresh strikes against Iran, with investors appearing to price in limited immediate economic disruption even as geopolitical tensions escalated and inflation remained elevated.

Futures attached to the Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.3%, while S&P 500 futures gained 0.4% and Nasdaq 100 futures advanced 0.3%. The modest uptick followed a downbeat Wednesday session in which major indexes fell on the latest consumer price data and renewed Middle East conflict concerns.

U.S. Central Command confirmed the strikes, describing them as a response to Iran’s “unwarranted and continued aggression.” President Donald Trump had earlier signaled strong action, stating that Iran would “pay the price” for stalled negotiations. The developments come amid a four-month conflict that has disrupted energy flows through the Strait of Hormuz, driven oil prices higher and raised inflation risks.

Inflation Data Adds to Market Pressure

The latest Consumer Price Index report showed prices rising 4.2% year-over-year in May, the highest reading since 2023. Energy costs accounted for more than 60% of the monthly increase, underscoring how geopolitical events are feeding directly into household budgets.

“Today’s CPI data confirmed our expectation that higher energy costs and their ripple effects on the costs of transportation and food would drive May headline CPI higher,” said Atsi Sheth, chief credit officer at Moody’s Ratings.

Core inflation, excluding food and energy, rose 2.9% annually, in line with expectations but still well above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target. The data reinforced bets that the Fed would hold rates steady at its June meeting, with traders now watching Thursday’s Producer Price Index report for further clues on pricing pressures.

Corporate Earnings in Focus

After the bell Wednesday, Oracle reported earnings that beat expectations but saw its stock decline on disappointing cloud sales growth. The mixed results highlighted ongoing selectivity among investors, with strong fundamentals rewarded while any softness in forward-looking metrics punished.

The market’s attention now turns to Friday’s expected debut of SpaceX, positioned as potentially the largest IPO in history. Elon Musk’s rocket company listing could inject fresh optimism into technology and space-related sectors if demand proves robust.

Geopolitical and Oil Market Impact

The renewed U.S. strikes and Iran’s announcement closing the Strait of Hormuz to vessels have roiled energy markets. Gold prices whipsawed, rising as much as 1.1% before reversing course, while oil benchmarks reflected supply disruption fears.

The conflict, now in its fourth month, has raised the likelihood of interest rate hikes as central banks combat inflation spillover from higher energy costs. Markets remain sensitive to any escalation that could further tighten global oil supplies.

Sector and Index Performance

Technology and growth stocks showed relative resilience in futures trading, while energy names gained on higher crude prices. Defensive sectors such as consumer staples and utilities attracted interest as investors sought safety amid uncertainty.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average had closed lower on Wednesday, as did the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite. The pullback reflected a combination of inflation worries and geopolitical risk premium being added to asset prices.

Broader Economic Outlook

The U.S. economy continues navigating a delicate balance between solid growth and persistent price pressures. Last week’s employment data showed a labor market that remains broadly in balance, but rising costs are squeezing real wages and consumer confidence.

Heather Long, chief economist at Navy Federal Credit Union, captured the sentiment many Americans are feeling. “Americans are getting squeezed financially. This isn’t just ‘bad vibes’ about the economy. There is real pain, especially for middle-class and lower-income households.”

The Federal Reserve faces a challenging path, with officials likely to emphasize data dependence in upcoming communications. Any signals of patience on rate cuts could support equities, while hints of further tightening might weigh on risk assets.

Investor Sentiment and Strategy

Market participants appear to be adopting a wait-and-see approach, balancing geopolitical risks against corporate earnings resilience and potential policy support. The modest futures gains suggest some optimism that the latest strikes will not immediately escalate into broader conflict.

Diversification remains key, with many advisers recommending exposure to both growth and defensive sectors. Energy and commodity-related names may benefit from higher prices, while technology and consumer discretionary stocks could face pressure if inflation persists.

Looking Ahead

Thursday’s Producer Price Index report will provide additional insight into wholesale inflation trends, potentially influencing Friday’s market open. The SpaceX IPO, if it proceeds as anticipated, could mark a significant milestone for private space companies and draw substantial attention from retail and institutional investors alike.

As the week progresses, focus will remain on any further developments in the Middle East and their potential spillover into energy markets and broader economic conditions. Central bank officials and corporate executives will also weigh in, shaping expectations for the remainder of 2026.

The current environment underscores the interconnected nature of geopolitics, inflation and financial markets. While futures point to a modestly positive open, volatility is likely to persist as new information emerges on both the conflict front and domestic economic indicators.

Investors will continue monitoring the situation closely, seeking to navigate a landscape where external shocks can quickly alter sentiment and asset prices. For now, the modest rebound in futures reflects a market attempting to look beyond immediate headlines toward longer-term fundamentals and policy responses.

The interplay between military developments, energy costs and monetary policy will remain central to market direction in the days ahead. As always, participants are advised to maintain disciplined approaches amid evolving risks and opportunities.