SCHEDULE: BlackRock Discloses 7.0% Stake in StoneCo Ltd.

BlackRock, Inc. has reported a 7.0% beneficial ownership stake in StoneCo Ltd., holding over 19 million common shares as of June 30, 2025.

Summary

• BlackRock, Inc. filed an Amendment No. 4 to Schedule 13G regarding its beneficial ownership in StoneCo Ltd.
• BlackRock, Inc. beneficially owns 19,078,378 common shares of StoneCo Ltd.
• This ownership represents 7.0% of StoneCo Ltd.'s common stock.
• BlackRock holds sole voting power over 18,685,803 shares and sole dispositive power over 19,078,378 shares.
• The filing certifies that the securities were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business and not for the purpose of changing or influencing control of StoneCo Ltd.

Sentiment

Score: 7

Explanation: The filing indicates a significant, passive investment by a major institutional investor (BlackRock) in StoneCo Ltd., which is generally a positive signal of confidence. There are no negative disclosures about the issuer within this document.

Positives

• BlackRock, a major institutional investor, holds a significant 7.0% stake, indicating potential long-term confidence in StoneCo Ltd.
• The filing confirms BlackRock's intent to hold the shares in the ordinary course of business, not for control purposes, which can signal stability.

Negatives

• NA

Risks

• The filing explicitly states that the securities were not acquired or held for the purpose of or with the effect of changing or influencing the control of the issuer, which is a standard certification for a 13G filer.

Future Outlook

The document does not provide forward-looking statements or guidance regarding StoneCo Ltd.'s future performance or operations, as it is a beneficial ownership report.

Management Comments

• The securities referred to above were acquired and are held in the ordinary course of business and were not acquired and are not held for the purpose of or with the effect of changing or influencing the control of the issuer of the securities and were not acquired and are not held in connection with or as a participant in any transaction having that purpose or effect, other than activities solely in connection with a nomination under ?? 240.14a-11.

Industry Context

This filing reflects a significant passive investment by BlackRock, one of the world's largest asset managers, in StoneCo Ltd., a financial technology company. Such a substantial stake by a major institutional investor can be viewed positively within the fintech industry, signaling confidence in the company's long-term prospects or market position, especially given the competitive landscape and evolving regulatory environment in financial services.

Comparison to Industry Standards

• This Schedule 13G filing is a standard regulatory disclosure for institutional investors acquiring a significant passive stake (over 5%) in a public company.
• BlackRock's 7.0% stake in StoneCo Ltd. is comparable to other large institutional holdings seen in fintech companies, where major asset managers often build substantial positions.
• For instance, similar large passive stakes are held by institutional investors in companies like Block (SQ), PayPal (PYPL), or Adyen (ADYEN), reflecting a common investment strategy for diversified portfolios.
• The filing itself adheres to the standard format and certification requirements for Rule 13d-1(b) filers.

Stakeholder Impact

• Shareholders: The disclosure of a significant stake by BlackRock may instill confidence among existing shareholders and attract new investors, potentially influencing stock valuation.
• Management: BlackRock's passive stake indicates no immediate intent to influence control, allowing current management to continue their strategic direction without direct pressure from this specific shareholder.

Next Steps

• BlackRock, Inc. will continue to monitor its investment in StoneCo Ltd.
• Future amendments to this Schedule 13G will be filed if there are material changes to BlackRock's beneficial ownership or intent.

Key Dates

Keywords

StoneCo Ltd., BlackRock Inc., Schedule 13G, Beneficial Ownership, Common Stock, Institutional Investor, SEC Filing, Equity Stake