Javier Burillo Azcárraga was born into one of the most influential media families in the world. His grandfather, Emilio Azcárraga, built Televisa and helped shape Univision in the United States. But Javier chose a different path early on.

“I wanted all my life to be independent,” he says. “I never worked in TV or radio with my family.”

Instead of media, he moved toward hospitality. That decision defined his career.

He didn’t start at the top. He started at the bottom.

From Washing Dishes to General Manager

Javier began his career at the Ritz in Acapulco. His first roles were simple. He learned the business from the ground up.

“I started learning to wash dishes at The Ritz,” he recalls.

Over the next eight years, he worked his way through the ranks. He eventually became General Manager. That early experience shaped his leadership style.

He learned operations. He learned people. And he learned how small details create big results.

Building Top Restaurants in Mexico

After leaving the Ritz, Javier moved into entrepreneurship. He opened several restaurants in Mexico.

Two of them stood out. Casa de Campo in Cuernavaca and another in Mexico City. Both became widely recognized as among the best in the country at the time.

This phase of his career showed his ability to spot an opportunity. It also proved he could execute at a high level.

He was no longer just managing. He was building.

How Las Ventanas al Paraíso Became #1

In 1997, Javier launched what would become his most important project: Las Ventanas al Paraíso.

He built the resort from the ground up. He owned it fully. And he focused on creating something different.

“Las Ventanas al Paraíso was probably my most dear accomplishment,” he says.

The results were clear. The resort was named the #1 boutique hotel in the world by Condé Nast Traveler for three years in a row.

That kind of recognition doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from consistent execution and a strong vision.

Javier focused on experience. Not just luxury, but detail and service.

In 2004, he sold the property.

Ownership in Camper & Nicholsons

After Las Ventanas, Javier Burillo Azcárraga made another strategic move. He acquired a 30% stake in Camper & Nicholsons.

The company is one of the most respected names in the global yacht industry.

He held that ownership for eight years.

This step expanded his reach beyond hotels and restaurants. It placed him firmly in the luxury lifestyle sector on a global scale.

It also showed his ability to move across industries while staying focused on high-end experiences.

What Shaped His Leadership Style

Javier often points back to his grandfather as a key influence.

“My grandfather… always remained a simple, wonderful human being,” he says. “All for the people was his slogan.”

That idea—staying grounded while building something big—shows up throughout Javier’s career.

He describes his own goal in simple terms: “Always wanted to be honest, simple, and well-balanced.”

His leadership style reflects that. It’s not about headlines. It’s about consistency.

Why He Stepped Away from Business

After years of building and investing, Javier stepped away from active business roles.

But he didn’t slow down.

He shifted his focus to something more personal.

Grant’s Crusade and a New Mission

Today, Javier is the Founder and Chairman of Grant’s Crusade. The nonprofit supports neurodiverse children.

It was created in honor of his son, Grant.

“Now I have a non-profit for neurodiverse children in honor of my son Grant who was a very ‘special’ child,” he says.

This work represents a different kind of leadership. It’s not about growth or scale. It’s about impact.

The organization has already received several recognitions for its work.

Lessons from Javier Burillo’s Career

Javier’s story is not about following a legacy. It’s about stepping away from one.

He built his career by starting small. He moved across industries. He focused on quality.

And he stayed consistent with his values.

From washing dishes to building a world-renowned resort, his path was not linear. But it was intentional.

“I wanted to be independent,” he says.

That decision shaped everything that followed.

A Life Still in Motion

Today, Javier remains active. He continues to stay involved in sports and community life. He holds memberships at clubs in San Francisco and Florida.

But his focus is clear.

He has already built businesses that reached the top of their fields. Now, he is focused on building something that gives back.

His career shows what can happen when independence meets discipline.

And when success is defined on your own terms.

Smith & Wesson Brands Inc., one of America’s most iconic firearm manufacturers, continues to navigate a shifting market with improving financial results and fresh product launches, even as the company marks more than 170 years of innovation in revolvers, pistols and long guns.

Here are 10 essential things to know about the company behind the legendary Model 10, the .357 Magnum and today’s popular M&P lineup.

First, Smith & Wesson traces its roots to 1852 when Horace Smith and Daniel B. Wesson formed a partnership in Norwich, Connecticut, to develop a repeating firearm using a fully self-contained cartridge. Their early Volcanic repeating pistol laid groundwork for modern lever-action designs, though the initial venture struggled before evolving into the successful Smith & Wesson Revolver Company. The firm’s first commercial hit came with the Model 1 tip-up revolver in .22 caliber.

Second, the company pioneered several groundbreaking cartridges that remain staples today. Smith & Wesson developed or popularized rounds including the .38 S&W Special, .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum and later the .500 S&W Magnum. The .357 Magnum, introduced in 1935 in collaboration with Winchester and Elmer Keith, became one of the most powerful handgun cartridges of its era and helped cement the brand’s reputation for high-performance revolvers. The .44 Magnum gained worldwide fame through Clint Eastwood’s “Dirty Harry” films.

Third, the Model 10 revolver stands as one of the company’s most enduring successes. Originally introduced in 1899 as the .38 Military & Police, it has remained in continuous production for more than a century with over six million units made. It served as a standard sidearm for countless law enforcement agencies throughout the 20th century and remains a trusted option for both duty and civilian use.

Fourth, Smith & Wesson has long maintained a strong presence in law enforcement. While Glock currently leads many U.S. police departments, Smith & Wesson holds a solid second-place position with growing adoption. Its M&P series of striker-fired pistols has become a popular duty weapon choice, offering reliability and modularity that appeal to agencies seeking alternatives to European designs.

Fifth, the company operates today as Smith & Wesson Brands Inc., a standalone public entity traded on Nasdaq under the ticker SWBI. It spun off from American Outdoor Brands Corporation in 2020, with Mark P. Smith serving as president and CEO. The firm is headquartered in Maryville, Tennessee, after previous locations in Springfield, Massachusetts, and other sites.

Sixth, recent financial performance shows signs of recovery in a challenging firearms market. For the third quarter of fiscal 2026, ended Jan. 31, the company reported net sales of $135.7 million, up 17.1% from the prior-year period. Gross margin improved to 26.2% from 24.1%, while net income rose to $3.8 million, or $0.08 per diluted share. Handgun shipments to the sporting goods channel jumped 28%, with average selling prices climbing more than 5%. Management guided for 10% to 12% revenue growth in the fourth quarter.⁠

Seventh, Smith & Wesson continues to expand its product lineup with modern innovations. At SHOT Show 2026, the company unveiled additions to its Spec Series, including the Spec Series VI M&P9 M2.0 Metal Compact pistol and the Spec Series R Model 686 Plus revolver. Other recent releases include the M&P 22 Magnum, M&P Carry Comp in 10mm, the M&P FPC folding pistol-caliber carbine, the Model 1854 lever-action rifle and suppressors under the Gemtech brand. These offerings blend heritage craftsmanship with contemporary features for concealed carry, competition and home defense.

Eighth, the company has diversified beyond traditional revolvers and pistols. Its current portfolio includes semi-automatic handguns, rifles, shotguns such as the M&P12, and accessories. Smith & Wesson produces millions of firearms annually and ranks among the largest U.S. manufacturers by volume, even as it faces competition from newer players in the polymer pistol segment.

Ninth, Smith & Wesson has experienced multiple ownership changes over its long history. After early struggles, it passed through entities including Bangor Punta and Tomkins plc before the 2020 spin-off. The brand has occasionally ventured into non-firearm products, such as law enforcement bicycles and identification software in past decades, though firearms remain its core focus.

Tenth, the company operates in a highly regulated and politically sensitive industry. Sales often fluctuate with election cycles, regulatory proposals and shifts in consumer sentiment regarding Second Amendment issues. Despite periodic market corrections, Smith & Wesson has demonstrated resilience through disciplined cost management, product innovation and strong branding that resonates with both traditional enthusiasts and newer shooters.

CEO Mark Smith has emphasized market share gains, pricing power and a focus on long-term strategy during recent earnings calls. The company’s improved margins and cash flow reflect operational efficiencies even amid softer overall industry demand compared to pandemic-era peaks.

Smith & Wesson’s stock has traded in a range around $14 to $15 in recent sessions, reflecting investor reactions to quarterly results and broader economic factors. The firm pays a modest dividend and maintains a focus on returning value to shareholders while investing in new manufacturing capabilities.

For consumers, the brand represents a balance of heritage and modernity. Classic revolvers like the Model 686 or 629 appeal to those who value smooth double-action triggers and timeless designs, while the M&P series targets users seeking lightweight, high-capacity options with optics-ready slides and accessory rails.

Critics and supporters alike recognize Smith & Wesson’s role in American manufacturing. The company employs more than 1,500 people and emphasizes domestic production, a point often highlighted in its marketing.

Looking ahead, analysts watch for continued margin expansion and the success of 2026 product launches. Q4 guidance suggests sustained handgun momentum, though the broader firearms sector remains sensitive to interest rates, political developments and inventory levels at retailers.

Smith & Wesson’s story spans from the tip-up revolvers of the 1850s to today’s competition-ready pistols and lever-actions. Through economic booms, wars, social changes and technological shifts, the brand has endured as a symbol of American firearms craftsmanship.

Whether enthusiasts seek a reliable duty pistol, a powerful hunting revolver or a versatile carbine, Smith & Wesson’s extensive catalog offers options across price points and use cases. Its ability to blend innovation with legacy designs has helped maintain relevance in a crowded market.

As the company prepares for its next earnings report, the 10 key aspects outlined here illustrate why Smith & Wesson remains a household name among shooters. From historical firsts in cartridge development to current gains in sales and market share, the iconic American brand continues writing new chapters in its 174-year history.

The Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) expects the government to revisit the structure of the subsidy scheme to provide more meaningful relief to businesses facing higher borrowing costs and volatile export demand, a top official added.

“We are expecting the government to remove the cap that they have put on the interest subvention. The government is providing a small 75 per cent interest subvention with a cap of 50 per cent which is grossly inadequate,” said Ajay Sahai, Director General and CEO, FIEO.
Last month, the government amended guidelines for interest subvention support for pre- and post-shipment export credit under Rs 25,060 crore export promotion mission.

Nearly nine in 10 people admit to checking their ex’s Facebook profile after a breakup, according to recurring research that continues to circulate widely in 2026, even as broader cyberstalking statistics show technology playing an ever-larger role in monitoring former partners.

The often-cited 88% figure stems from earlier academic studies, including research from the University of Western Ontario and psychologist Tara Marshall’s work at Brunel University, which found that a vast majority of Facebook users engage in what researchers call “interpersonal electronic surveillance” or simply “Facebook stalking” of former romantic partners. While no major new global survey in early 2026 has precisely replicated that exact percentage for Facebook alone, the behavior remains common and appears undiminished in the age of Instagram, TikTok and other platforms.

Experts say the habit persists because social media offers easy, low-effort access to an ex’s life updates, new relationships and daily activities without direct confrontation. Checking profiles can provide a temporary sense of control or closure — or fuel jealousy and prolong emotional recovery.

Recent data on cyberstalking paints a broader picture. As many as 7.5 million people in the United States experience cyberstalking each year, with technology involved in about 80% of all stalking cases. Social media platforms account for a significant portion of monitoring tactics, with 43% of federal cyberstalking cases involving social media according to analyses of reported incidents.

A 2025 study from University College London found cyberstalking growing faster than traditional forms, rising 70% over several years to affect about 1.7% of surveyed adults in the most recent period. In the UK and similar jurisdictions, cyber-enabled behaviors often include repeated viewing of social media feeds, stories and posts from ex-partners.

Younger adults and certain demographic groups show higher vulnerability. Women and LGBTQ+ individuals report elevated rates of both victimization and monitoring behaviors. Studies consistently indicate that women are statistically more likely than men to check an ex’s social media, often seeking emotional processing or reassurance, though both genders engage in the practice.

Post-breakup surveillance can have measurable psychological effects. Research links frequent checking to delayed healing, increased anxiety, depression and difficulty forming new relationships. The dopamine hit from discovering new information about an ex can mimic addictive patterns, making it hard to stop even when users recognize the harm.

In one older but frequently referenced survey, 56.5% of Americans admitted glancing at an ex’s profile at least once a month, with even higher rates among those in new relationships or marriages. A 2021 NortonLifeLock study found 49% of Gen Z and millennials in romantic relationships admitted to stalking an ex or current partner online.

No comprehensive 2026 survey has produced a dramatically different number for Facebook-specific “stalking,” suggesting the 88% figure — while possibly inflated by self-reported university samples — still resonates because the underlying impulse remains strong. With Facebook maintaining a massive user base of over 3 billion monthly active accounts worldwide, the platform continues to serve as a primary digital archive of personal lives.

Meta, Facebook’s parent company, has introduced privacy tools over the years, including tighter controls on who can view stories, limited profile access and options to restrict former contacts. Yet enforcement relies heavily on users proactively blocking or unfollowing exes, steps many delay due to curiosity or lingering attachment.

Psychologists recommend practical strategies to break the cycle. Experts advise blocking or muting ex-partners immediately after a breakup, deleting old messages and photos, and setting time limits on social media use. Some suggest a full digital detox or using apps that track and restrict access to specific sites during vulnerable periods.

Relationship counselors note that social media amplifies normal post-breakup curiosity into compulsive behavior. What once required driving past an ex’s house or asking mutual friends now happens with a few taps, lowering the barrier and increasing frequency.

Broader stalking statistics from the CDC’s National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey highlight that more than 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men experience stalking in their lifetimes, with former intimate partners among the most common perpetrators. Technology has made surveillance easier and less detectable, blurring lines between harmless curiosity and harmful patterns.

Cyberstalking cases often escalate when monitoring shifts from passive viewing to active harassment, such as sending unwanted messages, creating fake accounts or spreading rumors. Law enforcement agencies report that social media evidence plays a growing role in stalking prosecutions.

For platform operators, balancing user engagement with safety remains challenging. Features like “Close Friends” lists and restricted accounts help, but determined individuals can often find workarounds through mutual connections or public posts.

Mental health professionals emphasize that occasional checking does not equate to clinical stalking, but persistent behavior that interferes with daily life or causes distress warrants attention. Therapy focused on attachment styles, cognitive behavioral techniques and mindfulness can help users regain control.

As social media evolves, newer platforms introduce fresh risks. Instagram Reels, TikTok videos and Stories provide real-time glimpses into an ex’s life that feel more immediate than static Facebook posts. Cross-platform monitoring has become common, with users checking multiple accounts daily.

Despite growing awareness, the 88% statistic continues to go viral in 2026 because it normalizes a behavior many feel privately ashamed of while offering reassurance that “everyone does it.” Viral Instagram and TikTok posts referencing the figure often spark discussions about moving on, digital boundaries and the psychology of breakups.

Experts caution against complacency. Even if most people engage in light surveillance, the cumulative emotional toll can be significant. Studies show that those who monitor exes report lower self-esteem and higher rumination compared with those who cut digital ties.

For those currently tempted to check, counselors offer a simple test: Would this action help me heal, or is it feeding unresolved feelings? If the latter, it may be time to implement stricter boundaries.

As Facebook and other platforms refine privacy settings and artificial intelligence tools flag suspicious activity, users still hold primary responsibility for protecting their peace of mind. Blocking an ex is not petty — it is often an act of self-care that research links to faster emotional recovery.

In 2026, with billions still active on social media daily, the temptation to peek at an ex’s life remains powerful. The enduring popularity of the 88% claim reflects both how widespread the habit is and how difficult it can be to resist in an always-connected world.

Whether the precise number has shifted slightly or not, one reality stands clear: digital footprints of past relationships linger long after the romance ends, and learning to step away from the screen can be one of the healthiest choices in the healing process.

Chris Bosworth is leading figure in the UK’s cargo aviation sector

Cardiff Airport’s strategy of driving cargo traffic levels has been boosted with the appointment to its board of former managing director of Airport Coordination (ACL), Chris Bosworth.

Mr Bosworth has over three decades of aviation industry experience, including senior leadership roles at British Airways World Cargo, where he led commercial development across global freight markets.

He has played a key role in shaping cargo strategy, advancing digital booking solutions and supporting major capacity investments. As well as being managing director of ACL he has held advisory and consultancy positions across the aviation sector, giving him a broad perspective across airlines, airports and air freight operations.

Widely recognised for his expertise in air cargo strategy and commercial development, e has a strong track record of driving growth across complex global logistics networks, positioning him to support Cardiff Airport in unlocking its cargo potential. He is a fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society and a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Logistics & Transport.

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Mr Bosworth said: “I am delighted to join Cardiff Airport at such an important time in its development. The airport has strong foundations and clear potential to grow its cargo offering significantly. I look forward to working with the board and executive team to help realise this opportunity and deliver long-term value for the region.”

Cardiff Airport chief executive Jon Bridge, said: “Chris’s appointment strengthens our leadership team as we focus on growth and development. His extensive cargo expertise and industry insight will be invaluable as we enhance our capabilities and develop Cardiff Airport’s position within the air freight market.”

Chairman of the airport, Wayne Harvey said: “We are delighted to welcome Chris to our board bringing his extensive knowledge and experience. We are at a very exciting stage in the airport’s development and I have no doubt that Chris will play a significant part in our journey.”

Last year European Cargo launched its second UK base at the Rhoose-based airport.

The Welsh Government recently saw off a legal challenge from Bristol Airport over it subsidy plans of £205m to the airport over the next decade. Bristol’s argument that the subsidy to the airport, which the Welsh Government acquired for £52m from Abertis in 2013, breached the Subsidy Control Act, was rejected in a judgment from the Competition Appeal Tribunal.

The subsidy, though a matter for the next Welsh Government and the following administration, has been structured equally between providing support to attract new airlines and towards non terminal related investment, including aviation repair and overhaul.

Last year the airport increased passengers by 9% to 963,000.

Shares of Maase Inc. skyrocketed more than 31% Friday, climbing to $9.84 in midday trading on the Nasdaq as investors piled into the small-cap stock following its recent strategic shift toward becoming a full-stack artificial intelligence player through the completed acquisition of China’s Huazhi Group.

The stock jumped $2.37, or 31.62%, by 1:45 p.m. EDT, marking one of the sharpest single-day gains in recent sessions for the volatile name. Trading volume surged well above average as retail traders and momentum investors reacted to ongoing enthusiasm around the company’s pivot from traditional financial technology and wealth management services into high-growth AI infrastructure and applications.

Maase Inc., formerly known as Puyi Inc. or Highest Performances Holdings Inc., has aggressively transformed its business model through a series of acquisitions in 2025 and 2026. The most significant catalyst remains the March 30 completion of its purchase of 100% equity in Times Good Limited, which controls Huazhi Future (Chongqing) Technology Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries, collectively known as the Huazhi Group.

The deal, initially announced in January and valued at approximately RMB1.1 billion (about $152 million), was paid through a combination of newly issued Class A ordinary shares and cash. Management described the transaction as a pivotal move that elevates Maase from a “scenario operator” focused on financial services to an “AI industry player” with full-stack, self-controlled capabilities in computing power, algorithms and intelligent applications.

Huazhi Group brings expertise in high-performance computing infrastructure, proprietary AI algorithms and solutions for smart governance, enterprise digital transformation and energy optimization. Company executives have signaled plans to integrate these assets tightly with Maase’s existing operations, targeting applications in urban intelligence, commercial networks and industrial efficiency within China’s rapidly expanding AI ecosystem.

The acquisition closed on March 30, resulting in the issuance of 87,400,144 Class A ordinary shares to the sellers. As of that date, Maase had approximately 442 million ordinary shares outstanding, with the new shareholders holding about 19.77% of the equity but only 7.93% of the voting power due to the company’s dual-class structure.

Friday’s explosive move builds on earlier gains triggered by the deal’s announcement and completion. Shares had already shown strength in March and early April as investors bet on the AI narrative amid global enthusiasm for artificial intelligence infrastructure. The stock has traded in a wide 52-week range between roughly $2.41 and $14.00, reflecting both the high-risk nature of its transformation and the potential rewards of successful execution.

Before the AI pivot, Maase operated primarily as a financial technology services provider in China, offering wealth management, insurance agency and claims adjusting services. The company, founded in 2010 and headquartered in Chengdu with additional operations in Qingdao, has used a series of strategic deals to diversify. Earlier transactions included entries into new-energy technologies, healthcare and wellness, and even a premium tea producer, though the Huazhi move represents the clearest bet on high-growth tech.

Analysts and market observers remain divided on the stock’s long-term prospects. The company’s financials show modest revenue from its legacy segments, with recent reports indicating challenges in scaling traditional operations amid China’s evolving regulatory and economic environment. However, bullish voices highlight the potential for Huazhi’s assets to drive future top-line growth and improved margins if integration proceeds smoothly.

Short interest in Maase dropped significantly in March, falling 18.3% to just 3,579 shares as of March 31 — representing only 0.2% of the float and a short-interest ratio of about 0.5 days to cover. The decline suggests some bearish positions were covered as positive acquisition news circulated.

Maase’s market capitalization has fluctuated with its share price volatility but recently hovered in the low billions following the latest rally. The company maintains a relatively small public float, which can amplify price swings on news or increased trading interest.

Beyond the Huazhi deal, Maase has pursued other growth initiatives. In late March, a subsidiary completed delivery of mobile charging robots valued at RMB3.2 million, expanding its footprint in intelligent hardware for the southwest China market. Earlier moves included acquisitions in new-energy technologies and healthcare, illustrating management’s serial approach to reshaping the business.

Risks remain substantial. As a China-based entity listed on Nasdaq via American Depositary Receipts or sponsored shares, Maase faces geopolitical tensions, regulatory scrutiny over cross-border deals and potential U.S. investor concerns regarding variable interest entity structures or accounting transparency common among Chinese firms. Integration challenges with newly acquired businesses could also pressure near-term results.

The stock’s recent performance has drawn attention from retail traders active on platforms tracking small-cap momentum names. Friday’s surge occurred amid broader market interest in AI-related plays, even as many larger technology stocks traded more modestly.

Maase did not immediately release new commentary on Friday’s trading action. Its most recent official updates focused on the successful closure of the Huazhi transaction and integration plans. Executives have expressed confidence that the combination will create a vertically integrated AI ecosystem spanning computing infrastructure, algorithms, hardware and operational services.

For investors, the story centers on execution. Can Maase successfully leverage Huazhi’s capabilities to generate meaningful revenue and profitability in the competitive Chinese AI sector? Or will the transformation dilute focus on legacy financial services while adding operational complexity?

The company’s history includes multiple name changes and strategic shifts, underscoring its adaptability but also raising questions about long-term consistency. Earlier segments in insurance agency and wealth management provided steady but modest revenue, while the new AI direction promises higher growth potential at the cost of greater uncertainty.

As trading continued Friday, technical analysts noted the stock breaking above recent resistance levels on heavy volume, potentially signaling further short-term momentum if buyer interest persists into next week. Longer-term charts show the shares remain well off their 52-week highs, leaving room for recovery — or additional volatility.

Broader market context also plays a role. With artificial intelligence dominating investor conversations globally, even smaller companies announcing AI-related moves can experience outsized reactions. Maase’s pivot aligns with this theme, though its scale and execution track record differ markedly from established AI leaders.

Looking ahead, investors will watch for updates on post-acquisition integration, any new partnerships or pilot projects involving Huazhi technology, and eventual financial reporting that reflects the combined entity. Quarterly results could provide the first concrete metrics on how the AI assets are contributing to overall performance.

For now, Friday’s 31% surge underscores the high-beta nature of Maase shares and the market’s willingness to reward perceived strategic repositioning in the red-hot AI space. Whether the momentum sustains or fades will depend on the company’s ability to deliver tangible progress beyond press releases.

Maase Inc. operates in a dynamic environment where technological ambition meets the realities of execution in China’s regulated markets. Its latest rally reflects hope that the Huazhi acquisition marks the beginning of a successful new chapter — one that could transform a modest financial services player into a meaningful participant in the global AI revolution.