Markets

The UK Law Commission proposes legalizing alternative body disposal methods like alkaline hydrolysis (“water cremation”) and human composting, reflecting a global trend towards environmentally friendly end-of-life care. This process uses high-temperature steam and a potassium hydroxide solution to dissolve remains into a liquid and bone powder, potentially safe for wastewater systems. While championed for its environmental benefits, critics raise concerns about potential misuse and hindering forensic investigations due to complete tissue disintegration. This follows the practice already being used in the US, Australia, Canada, and Ireland.

Denali Capital Acquisition Corp (DECA) extended its business combination deadline to July 11, 2025. To support this, they deposited $874.78 into their trust account, funded by a convertible promissory note from Scilex (SCLX). The note, with a $180,000 principal cap and no interest, converts to DECA shares at $10.00 each. Remaining funds from the note are available for future extensions.

Neta Auto, a Chinese EV startup, faces mounting financial struggles. Employees reportedly confronted the CEO demanding overdue wages, as captured in social media videos. Legal filings reveal significant execution orders against the company, exceeding 150 million yuan in outstanding execution cases. Despite initial growth, increased competition has led to a sales decline, painting a grim picture of the company’s current financial health.

SmartStop Self Storage REIT, Inc. (SMA) is issuing a CAD $500 million Maple Bond through its operating partnership. The senior unsecured notes, maturing in 2028, will yield approximately 3.91% (3.85% effective after hedging) and are rated BBB (Stable) by Morningstar DBRS. Proceeds will refinance debt and fund acquisitions. The offering is exclusively for Canadian residents. SmartStop owns and manages self-storage properties across the U.S. and Canada.

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon expresses caution about the U.S. economy’s prospects, anticipating potential headwinds. He cites cooling effects after government stimuli, the impact of previous administrations policies, and concerns in the private credit sector. Dimon suggests a potential economic slowdown with rising inflation and acknowledges the complexity added by factors like reduced immigration. Despite resilient job growth, he advises businesses and investors to prepare for challenges.

Ivanhoe Mines’ Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex reports stabilized underground water levels, with dewatering of the eastern side of the Kakula Mine scheduled for August. Revised 2025 production guidance is set between 370,000 and 420,000 tonnes of copper. The smelter is expected to commence in September, with the first anode in October. A conference call for investors is planned for June 12, 2025.

SPAR Group (SGRP) strongly refutes demands from its founder, Robert G. Brown, calling them “self-serving.” Brown sought $15 million, consulting fees, a long-term service agreement, and a company acquisition, actions the board deemed beneficial solely to Brown. The company also addressed Brown’s other claims and noted his violations of the Securities Exchange Act. This follows a history of conflicts and concerns about Brown’s influence, setting the stage for an ongoing battle.

Enanta Pharmaceuticals (ENTA) announced FDA approval for MAVYRET (glecaprevir/pibrentasvir), now the only eight-week oral treatment for acute HCV in adults and children (3+ years). The approval allows providers to immediately treat diagnosed HCV patients with a 96% cure rate. This breakthrough aims to prevent chronic disease progression and supports the global public health goal of HCV elimination by 2030.

BYD President Wang Chuanfu personally delivered a Fangchengbao Bao 3 to a young couple in Chongqing, emphasizing customer engagement. The couple, fans of travel and outdoor activities, appreciated the Bao 3’s design and features. The Bao 3, a compact all-electric SUV launched on April 16th, targets urban light off-roading. This event follows Fangchengbao’s milestone of exceeding 100,000 vehicle deliveries in 18 months.

A senior executive from a leading Chinese tech company shared positive observations about its retail performance following a recent store visit. The executive highlighted strong customer loyalty, a buoyant atmosphere, and excellent sales of premium products and new interest in the company’s upcoming electric vehicle. The remarks underscored the company’s successful expansion of brick-and-mortar stores, with expectations of reaching 20,000 stores by the end of the year, contributing significantly to revenue.