Target Corp. shares rose on Friday after the Financial Times reported that an activist investor built up a stake in Minneapolis-based the big-box retailer, citing people it didn’t identify. Toms Capital Investment Management, of New York, has made a significant investment in Target, the FT said, w ithout disclosing further details. Target shares jumped as much as 6.7% on Friday before settling at $99.55, a rise of 3%. The stock is headed for an annual decline of about 25% following a difficult year in which the company lost market share and sales slumped. In response to a request for comment, Target said it maintains “regular dialogue with the investment community” and its top priority is “getting back to growth.” The company said its plan to improve its merchandise, shopping experience and technology “will drive the business forward and deliver sustained, long-term value for shareholders.” A representative for Toms Capital couldn’t be reached for comment. Related Articles More thrifting and fewer returns, the early trends that defined shopping this holiday Stocks close slightly lower in quiet post-Christmas trading For young people in debt, bankruptcy seems like a get out of jail free card. Is it? Americans facing a tough job market in 2025 won’t get a break next year Average US long-term mortgage rate ticks down to 6.18% this week ...read more read less