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Stock Market Today

  • easyJet Shares Drop 45% Over 5 Years Despite Takeover Buzz
    June 2, 2026, 7:37 AM EDT. easyJet (LSE:EZJ) shares surged 9.8% on June 1 amid takeover rumors, with Castlelake, a US investment firm owning 2.14%, considering a buyout offer of 403.23p per share. However, the stock remains 45% below its value five years ago and 65% beneath pre-pandemic highs. The airline's debt stands at £2.9 billion versus Ryanair's bond-free position. Regulatory hurdles include European ownership rules for airlines, complicating takeover prospects. EasyJet's valuable runway slots at London Gatwick and Paris Charles de Gaulle airports may attract strategic buyers, potentially other airlines. Despite near-term recovery optimism, the long-term outlook highlights heavy debt and share dilution, suggesting cautious investor approach amid broader market uncertainties like tariffs and geopolitical risks.