Option chain shows key data for Central Petroleum's stock options at various strike prices and expiration dates. Traders use this information to analyze potential trades and assess market sentiment for Central Petroleum.

Central Petroleum (OTC:CNPTF) Stock, Option Chain

Central Petroleum Ltd is an oil and gas explorer and conventional producer with a focus on supplying the domestic gas market. It is engaged in the development, production, processing, and marketing of hydrocarbons and associated exploration. The company's operating segment includes production; development; and exploration. It generates maximum revenue from the Natural gas production segment. Geographically, the company operates only in Australia.

CENTRAL PETROLEUM LTD by Central Petroleum Ltd.

Central Petroleum Ltd

The past week in the crypto world was a mixed bag of events. From Shiba Inu&#8217;s (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>) burn rate skyrocketing to Dogecoin&#8217;s (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) price dipping, there was no shortage of action. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) also had its moment, teasing the $100,000 mark, while Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) experienced a bumpy ride. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the major stories that unfolded over the week.
Shiba Inu Burn Rate Skyrockets
Despite a relatively flat performance for the SHIB/USD pair over the past week, the burn rates for Shiba Inu witnessed a significant increase. Benzinga&#8217;s technical analysis indicates an oversold RSI at 28.6 for Shiba Inu, suggesting a potential price rebound or reversal.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42692745/shiba-inu-burn-rate-spikes-2227-whats-going-on">Read the full article here.</a>
Dogecoin Price Dips, Whale Activity Surges&nbsp;
Despite a 4% drop in price, Dogecoin has seen a significant increase in whale activity, sparking speculation of a bullish phase among traders. Javon Marks, a trader, has pointed out historical patterns that suggest Dogecoin could rise beyond the 1.618 Fibonacci Extension level, as it has in previous cycles.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42682141/dogecoin-price-down-4-what-is-going-on">Read the full article here.</a>
Bitcoin, Ethereum Hold Steady Over Christmas
Leading cryptocurrencies Bitcoin and Ethereum remained steady on Christmas day, holding onto gains made the day before. Bitcoin reached a one-week high of $99,800 during overnight trading, narrowly missing the $100,000 milestone. Ethereum, on the other hand, experienced a wobbly trajectory.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42679707/bitcoin-ethereum-gain-dogecoin-slips-as-sentiment-turns-positive-on-christmas-analyst-throws-reality-check-for-overexcited-participants">Read the full article here.</a>
Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Pull Back After Christmas Rally
Leading cryptocurrencies witnessed a fall after a festive surge on Christmas gave way to profit-taking. Bitcoin, after teasing the $100,000 mark on Christmas, saw a steep decline, falling to an intraday low of $95,170. Ethereum also dropped to the $3,300 region.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42696705/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-retreat-after-christmas-surge-top-analyst-highlights-what-btc-needs-to-do-to-invalidate-bearish-outlook">Read the full article here.</a>
Dogecoin Whales on a Buying Spree
Whale investors purchased a staggering 270 million Dogecoin in less than four days, according to Ali, a prominent voice in the crypto community. The significant investment in Dogecoin was announced on Christmas Eve.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42676474/dogecoin-whales-load-up-coins-worth-92-million-over-4-days-as-meme-king-outperforms-bitcoin-ethereum-in-2024">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42679707/bitcoin-ethereum-gain-dogecoin-slips-as-sentiment-turns-positive-on-christmas-analyst-throws-reality-check-for-overexcited-participants?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum Rise, Dogecoin Slides Amid Positive Christmas Sentiment: Analyst Cautions $110K Target For BTC Possible Only When&#8230;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
 This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anan-ashraf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anan Ashraf.</a>

Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

News

$BTC

$DOGE

$ETH

$SHIB

Shiba Inu Burn Rate Soars, Dogecoin Whales On A Buying Spree And More: This Week In Crypto

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) scripted history in 2024, not only breaking the long-held record of $69,000 but also hitting the magical $100,000 milestone.&nbsp;
A slew of crucial developments occurred throughout the year, providing strong impetus to the apex cryptocurrency.&nbsp;
With the New Year knocking on our doorsteps, let's look back at some of the most pivotal bullish triggers for Bitcoin in 2024.
Trump Presidency: The electoral triumph of Donald Trump, who aggressively marketed himself as a cryptocurrency-friendly candidate during the campaign, proved to be the biggest positive driver for Bitcoin.
Since the elections, the leading cryptocurrency has surged 41%, hitting a peak of $108,000.&nbsp;
Trump pledged to establish a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42505162/trump-reportedly-considering-executive-order-to-establish-strategic-bitcoin-reserve">national Bitcoin reserve</a> on the campaign trail, and reports suggested he might pass an<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42505162/trump-reportedly-considering-executive-order-to-establish-strategic-bitcoin-reserve"> executive order</a> to establish one. 
He also appointed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42356067/venture-capitalist-david-sacks-appointed-as-white-house-ai-crypto-czar-by-trump">pro-cryptocurrency venture capitalist</a> David Sacks as the first-ever "White House A.I. &amp; Crypto Czar,&#8221; signaling a commitment to fulfill his election promises. 
Demand from Bitcoin ETFs: The successful launch of the first-ever U.S. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/01/36603461/bitcoin-etf-launch-shatters-records-attracts-over-4-billion-biggest-day-one-splash-in-etf-">exchange-traded funds that track the price of Bitcoin</a> in early 2024 set the stage for broader institutional adoption of the cryptocurrency.
Since listing, the ETFs have seen net inflows of nearly $36 billion, with over $2 billion in transactions recorded as of Dec. 26, <a href="https://sosovalue.com/assets/etf/us-btc-spot">according </a>to SoSo Value.&nbsp;
BlackRock's iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBIT#NASDAQ">IBIT</a>) emerged as the most successful fund, holding assets worth over $52 billion.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42696957/all-vitalik-buterin-wanted-for-xmas-was-a-hippopotamus-ethereum-co-founder-is-now-the-adoptive-father-of-viral-sensation-moo-deng">All Vitalik Buterin Wanted For Xmas Was A Hippopotamus — Ethereum Co-Founder Is Now The Adoptive Father Of Viral Sensation Moo Deng</a>
Monetary Policy Easing: The Federal Reserve delighted <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/09/40926026/federal-reserve-delivers-bold-0-5-rate-cut-signals-further-easing-ahead">risk-on markets by enacting a 0.5% interest rate cut</a> in September, the first in over four years. The bold reduction was followed by a more modest 25-basis-point cut in the successive months.
A drop in interest rates typically increases liquidity and borrowing power, leading to higher bets for stocks and cryptocurrencies, which are perceived to be risky investments.
Bitcoin's Halving Event: The quadrennial <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-bitcoin-halving">event took place in April</a>, further squeezing the supply of an asset with deflationary characteristics.
The event slashed the mining reward after each successful block validation from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC.&nbsp;
Previous instances of halving were followed by significant gains in Bitcoin. Since it's a known cyclical event, some experts argue that the halving is already priced in and there is no real expectation of Bitcoin reacting in a certain way after the event.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42697066/vivek-ramaswamys-strive-applies-for-bitcoin-bond-etf-that-will-track-microstrategys-convertible-securities-market">Vivek Ramaswamy&#8217;s Strive Applies For &#8216;Bitcoin Bond&#8217; ETF That Tracks MicroStrategy&#8217;s Convertible Securities Market</a></li>
</ul>

$SOL

IBIT

From Trump's Win To Debut Of Spot ETFs: These Were The Biggest Bullish Catalysts For Bitcoin In 2024

The past week has seen significant developments in the tech industry, with AI at the forefront. OpenAI announced its transition to a for-profit entity, President-elect Trump appointed a new senior AI advisor, and Google faced intense scrutiny following the release of ChatGPT. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories.
OpenAI&#8217;s For-Profit Transition
Microsoft Corp.-backed&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) OpenAI has revealed its plans to evolve into a Delaware Public Benefit Corporation (PBC). The company aims to balance shareholder and stakeholder interests while maintaining its public benefit mission. The transition is part of OpenAI&#8217;s mission to advance artificial general intelligence (AGI) for the benefit of all humanity.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712683/openai-lays-out-its-for-profit-transition-plans-says-it-must-evolve-to-advance-its-agi-mission">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s New AI Advisor
President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Sriram Krishnan, a former general partner at Andreessen Horowitz, as senior policy advisor for AI. Krishnan will work closely with David Sacks, recently named Trump&#8217;s "AI and crypto czar." The move is part of Trump&#8217;s efforts to ensure America&#8217;s technological dominance and foster scientific breakthroughs.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42639812/trump-taps-sriram-krishnan-as-senior-ai-advisor-to-work-closely-with-ai-and-crypto-czar-david-sacks">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42664762/after-investing-nearly-14-billion-in-openai-microsoft-reportedly-moves-to-reduce-its-dependence-on-chatgpt-parent?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microsoft Invested Nearly $14 Billion In OpenAI But Now It&#8217;s Reducing Its Dependence On The ChatGPT-Parent</a>
Google&#8217;s &#8216;Code Red&#8217;
Following the release of OpenAI&#8217;s ChatGPT,&nbsp;Alphabet Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google declared a &#8220;Code Red&#8221;. The tech giant faced criticism for lagging behind rivals like Microsoft in integrating ChatGPT-like capabilities into its products. However, Alphabet&#8217;s latest advancements in AI and quantum computing are rebuilding its reputation and investor confidence.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42641018/google-faced-intense-scrutiny-post-chatgpt-leading-up-to-declaring-code-red-but-gemini-20-and-quantum-chip-gives-investors-renewed-confidence">Read the full article here.</a>
Palantir: The &#8216;Next Oracle&#8217;
According to Wedbush Securities analyst Dan Ives,&nbsp;Palantir Technologies Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) could emerge as "the next Oracle" in the AI revolution. Despite its stock surging 395.42% in 2024, Ives maintains a strong conviction in the company's growth trajectory.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42696805/palantir-touted-as-next-oracle-by-dan-ives-here-is-why-the-wedbush-analyst-called-the-company-a-table-pounder">Read the full article here.</a>
Microsoft&#8217;s Reduced Dependence on OpenAI
Microsoft is reportedly planning to reduce its dependence on OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT. The company is working on integrating internal and third-party AI models into its AI product, Microsoft 365 Copilot.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42664762/after-investing-nearly-14-billion-in-openai-microsoft-reportedly-moves-to-reduce-its-dependence-on-chatgpt-parent">Read the full article here.</a>
Peter Thiel&#8217;s Bet on AI
Former PayPal CEO Peter Thiel has shared his perspective on the evolving role of AI and its potential impact on math skills. Thiel suggested that the rise of AI could reduce the emphasis on math proficiency and lead to a societal transformation.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42680592/peter-thiel-once-said-he-would-bet-on-the-reversal-of-silicon-valleys-math-bias-as-ai-continues-to-rise-isnt-that-a-long-overdue-rebalancing-of-our-society">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/12/42681555/nio-announces-repurchase-opportunity-for-convertible-senior-notes-due-2027-firefly-app-gains-traction-in-china?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIO Announces Repurchase Opportunity For Convertible Senior Notes Due 2027</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Tech

GOOG

GOOGL

MSFT

PLTR

OpenAI's For-Profit Transition, Trump's AI Advisor, And Google's Code Red: This Week In AI

The holiday week was abuzz with news from Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>). The tech giant continues to make headlines with its innovative products and bullish market predictions. From the anticipated AI-driven iPhone upgrade cycle to the rumored features of the AirTag 2, AirPods, and the M4 MacBook Air, Apple&#8217;s tech advancements continue to impress. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories from the weekend.
Tech Bull Foresees 26% Upside for Apple Stock
Wedbush analyst Dan Ives is optimistic about Apple&#8217;s future, predicting a 26% upside for the company&#8217;s stock. Ives attributes this potential growth to a &#8220;multi-year&#8221; upgrade cycle for the iPhone, driven by artificial intelligence (AI). He believes this will usher in a &#8220;golden era of growth for Cupertino&#8221; into 2025.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42682230/tech-bull-predicts-26-upside-for-apple-stock-sees-golden-era-of-growth-for-cupertino-due-to-multi-year-ai-driven-iphone-upgrade-cycle">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple&#8217;s AirTag 2: Enhanced Tracking and Safety
Apple is reportedly gearing up to launch the AirTag 2, with significant upgrades in range and safety. The new item tracker is expected to feature an Ultra Wideband chip for a longer range.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42677323/apples-airtag-2-roundup-ultra-wideband-boost-safety-improvements-and-more-rumored-features">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42677504/amid-donald-trumps-concerns-about-taiwans-rising-chip-business-jensen-huang-praises-tsmc-for-its-unquestionable-innovation-vows-nvidias-support-for-the-incoming-us-administration?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amid Donald Trump&#8217;s Concerns About Taiwan&#8217;s Rising Chip Business, Jensen Huang Praises TSMC</a>
Apple AirPods to Incorporate Health Sensors and Cameras
According to Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman, Apple is planning to introduce heart rate monitors, temperature sensors, and cameras to its AirPods to enhance AI capabilities. The company is reportedly experimenting with these new improvements.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42640232/apple-airpods-to-get-heart-rate-temperature-sensors-and-cameras-to-help-with-ai-features-top-analyst">Read the full article here.</a>
M4 MacBook Air Release Could Be Ahead of Schedule
Apple&#8217;s highly anticipated M4 MacBook Air could arrive sooner than expected, according to Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman. While new iPads and the iPhone SE are slated for a spring release, the M4 MacBook Air might hit the market earlier.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42665141/top-apple-analyst-says-new-m4-macbook-air-could-be-available-sooner-than-expected">Read the full article here.</a>
iPhone 17 Pro Likely to Retain Triangular Camera Layout
Despite rumors of a radical horizontal layout, Apple&#8217;s upcoming iPhone 17 Pro is expected to stick with its distinctive &#8220;triangular&#8221; camera design. This information was revealed by the leaker "Instant Digital" on Weibo last week.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42666163/iphone-17-pro-could-retain-iconic-triangular-camera-design-despite-rumors-of-a-radical-horizontal-layout">Read the full article here.</a>
Steve Jobs&#8217; MacBook Vision Realized After 25 Years
Steve Jobs had a vision for what a MacBook should look like back in 1983. It took Apple 25 years to bring this vision to life, but the company&#8217;s stock is now soaring to record highs. Analysts at JPMorgan are optimistic about Cupertino&#8217;s prospects, giving the Apple stock an overweight rating and a price target of $265.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42699730/steve-jobs-knew-what-macbook-should-be-like-in-1983-it-took-apple-25-years-to-bring-his-vision-to-life-with-aapl-stock-at-record-highs-heres-what-analysts-say">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42680592/peter-thiel-once-said-he-would-bet-on-the-reversal-of-silicon-valleys-math-bias-as-ai-continues-to-rise-isnt-that-a-long-overdue-rebalancing-of-our-society?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Thiel Once Said He Would Bet On The Reversal Of Silicon Valley&#8217;s Math Bias As AI Continues To Rise</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Apple
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

AAPL

Apple's AI-Driven Growth, AirTag 2, AirPods' Health Features, And iPhone 17 Pro: This Week In Appleverse

As we wrap up the week, a series of intriguing developments have unfolded in the electric vehicle industry. From Hertz Global Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HTZ#NASDAQ">HTZ</a>) selling used EVs at substantial discounts to Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) donating a fleet of vehicles for Trump&#8217;s inauguration, the news cycle has been anything but dull. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories.
Hertz Trims Fleet with Discounted EVs
In a bid to reduce its fleet, car rental company Hertz has been selling used electric vehicles for as low as nearly $12,000. The discounted EVs include models from Chevrolet, Tesla, and Subaru. For example, a 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV in Denver is listed for sale on Hertz&#8217;s website for $11,985, while a 2022 Tesla Model 3 base sedan in Oklahoma is priced at $17,921.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42666220/hertz-sells-used-evs-including-chevrolet-bolt-tesla-model-3-for-whopping-discounts-in-bid-to-reduce-evs-in-fleet">Read the full article here.</a>
Ford Donates to Trump&#8217;s Inauguration
Automaker Ford has donated $1 million and a fleet of vehicles to Donald Trump&#8217;s inauguration fund. This donation matches totals from Amazon.com Inc. and Meta Platforms Inc., as well as a recent $1 million pledge from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42660866/trump-gets-ford-vehicles-1m-for-inauguration-will-musk-respond-or-could-he-ride-in-rival-vehicle">Read the full article here.</a>
Fund Manager Questions Musk&#8217;s Robotaxi Fleet Ambitions 
Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Elon Musk envisions a future where Tesla car owners can rent their vehicles to the company&#8217;s robotaxi fleet, likened to a combination of Airbnb and Uber. However, Future Fund Managing Partner Gary Black doubts that a majority of Tesla owners would want to participate in this scheme.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42642606/elon-musk-wants-to-raise-a-tesla-fleet-expert-estimates-vehicle-owners-can-make-40kyear-but-remains-doubtful">Read the full article here.</a>
Tesla&#8217;s Recall Costs
Tesla executive Sendil Palani expressed frustration over the cost of notifying customers about the company&#8217;s recent recall. Palani criticized the mandate of sending letters to affected owners as a waste of time and money.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42640472/tesla-exec-bemoans-cost-of-sending-letter-to-owners-affected-by-ev-giants-recent-recall-of-nearly-700000-vehicles">Read the full article here.</a>
Musk&#8217;s Bold Tesla Valuation
Elon Musk believes that Tesla could exceed the value of all transport companies, with the exception of his rocket manufacturing company SpaceX. However, he noted that achieving this would require a lot of work and good ideas.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42667044/teslas-valuation-could-exceed-all-transport-companies-but-spacex-ceo-elon-musk">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42680075/tesla-exec-says-we-will-be-ready-to-efficiently-produce-autonomous-vehicles-as-shanghai-megafactory-nears-completion?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla Exec Says &#8216;We Will Be Ready&#8217; To Efficiently Produce Autonomous Vehicles As Shanghai Megafactory Nears Completion</a></li>
</ul>
Image generated using AI tools
 This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anan-ashraf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anan Ashraf.</a>

TSLA

Hertz's EV Sale, Ford Donates to Trump's Inauguration, Fund Manager Questions Musk's Robotaxi Fleet Ambitions And More: This Week In Mobility

As the week wraps up, we bring you a recap of the top stories that made headlines. From Senator Bernie Sanders&#8217; call to end Super PACs to Nikki Haley&#8217;s clash with DOGE Co-Head Vivek Ramaswamy, the week was filled with political drama. Elon Musk also found himself in the spotlight, with Ukraine receiving Starlink sets from Poland and Musk stating he can no longer afford to give them away for free.
Bernie Sanders Calls Out Elon Musk and Super PACs
Senator Bernie Sanders voiced his concerns about billionaires, including Elon Musk, influencing elections and called for an immediate ban on Super PACs by the Democratic National Committee. Sanders expressed his disdain for billionaires buying elections and demanded that the DNC ban Super PACs in Democratic primaries.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42676387/bernie-sanders-the-american-people-are-disgusted-with-musk-calls-on-democrats-to-end-super-pacs-in-primaries">Read the full article here.</a>
Nikki Haley and DOGE Co-Head Vivek Ramaswamy Clash Over American Culture
Former U.N. Ambassador and 2024 presidential candidate Nikki Haley responded to Department of Government Efficiency Co-head Vivek Ramaswamy&#8217;s comments about American culture. Ramaswamy, who is set to lead DOGE alongside Elon Musk under President-elect Donald Trump, had suggested that cultural factors contribute to top tech companies often hiring foreign-born engineers over U.S.-born engineers.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42696536/nikki-haley-blasts-doge-co-head-vivek-ramaswamy-for-his-take-on-american-culture-all-you-have-to-do-is-look-at-the-border-and-see-how-many-want-what-we-have">Read the full article here.</a>
Ukraine Receives Starlinks, Musk Says He Can&#8217;t Afford to Give Them Away for Free
Ukraine received 150 sets of SpaceX&#8217;s Starlink from Poland, just hours before Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Elon Musk stated that the U.S. should pay for the high-speed internet services as he can no longer afford to give them to Ukraine for free.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/10/42708683/ukraine-gets-150-starlinks-from-poland-while-elon-musk-says-he-can-no-longer-afford-to-give-the-kits-away-for-free">Read the full article here.</a>
Ford Donates to Trump&#8217;s Inauguration, Sparks Speculation
Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) made a substantial donation to Donald Trump&#8217;s inauguration fund, matching totals from Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>). This move comes as Ford&#8217;s rival Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk are likely set to benefit from the new White House administration.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42660866/trump-gets-ford-vehicles-1m-for-inauguration-will-musk-respond-or-could-he-ride-in-rival-vehicle">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump Reconsiders TikTok Ban
President-elect Donald Trump has had a change of heart about banning TikTok from the United States. Despite a pending ban that could take place on Jan 19, the day before he is inaugurated as president once again, Trump shared that he supports TikTok remaining operational in the U.S.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42654769/tiktok-ban-under-trump-president-elect-wants-to-keep-months-after-pelosi-said-follow-the-money">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42690082/trump-is-first-republican-president-with-a-pathway-to-cannabis-reform-says-former-adviser?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Is First &#8216;Republican President&#8217; With A Pathway To Cannabis Reform, Says Former Adviser</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
 This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anan-ashraf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anan Ashraf.</a>

Politics

AMZN

Sanders Targets Musk, Haley Clashes With DOGE Co-Head, And Trump Reconsiders Tiktok Ban: This Week In Politics

<a href="https://imnews.imbc.com/news/2024/society/article/6671731_36438.html">https://imnews.imbc.com/news/2024/society/article/6671731_36438.html</a>
<a href="https://imnews.imbc.com/news/2024/society/article/6671706_36438.html">https://imnews.imbc.com/news/2024/society/article/6671706_36438.html</a>
<a href="https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/JJA2216">https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/JJA2216</a>
&nbsp;

S. Korea's MBC News Reports 47 Dead In Crash Of Boeing 737-800 At Muan Airport With 181 On Board

In the midst of the ongoing infighting within the Republican Party&#8217;s MAGA base, tech mogul Elon Musk has called for the expulsion of &#8220;contemptible fools&#8221; from the party.
What Happened: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, named by President-elect Donald Trump as co-leaders of the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), have found themselves at odds with the GOP&#8217;s hard right and MAGA base. The disagreement stems from their support of H-1B visas, which are used to bring high-skilled migrant workers to the U.S.
Ramaswamy previously stirred up controversy by stating&nbsp;that the U.S. needs to&nbsp;import high-skilled workers, a standpoint that was met with backlash from several MAGA influencers. 
Musk responded to the criticism on X, saying, &#8220;Yes. And those contemptible fools&nbsp;must be removed from the&nbsp;Republican Party, root and stem.&#8221;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42496864/exclusive-eric-trump-calls-elon-musk-albert-einstein-of-our-time-says-tesla-ceo-will-help-build-a-stronger-america">EXCLUSIVE: Eric Trump Calls Elon Musk &#8216;Albert Einstein Of Our Time,&#8217; Says Tesla CEO Will Help Build &#8216;A Stronger America&#8217;</a>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Yes. And those contemptible fools must be removed from the Republican Party, root and stem.
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1872744295884841262?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Responding to Musk&#8217;s post, Gab CEO&nbsp;Andrew Torba said that Musk is declaring war on them. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">He's declaring war on us btw. Should go over well for him as it has for everyone else who has tried. <a href="https://t.co/zGnFIDyFRT">pic.twitter.com/zGnFIDyFRT</a>
&mdash; Andrew Torba (@BasedTorba) <a href="https://twitter.com/BasedTorba/status/1872753653553217726?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The infighting within the MAGA base has reportedly escalated into a virtual right-wing civil war over issues such as race, class, and immigration. Musk&#8217;s position has increasingly put him at odds with Trump&#8217;s base, with figures like Steve Bannon and Laura Loomer expressing their disapproval, as reported <a href="https://www.axios.com/2024/12/27/elon-musk-contemptible-fools-maga-doge">by</a> Axios.
The report also suggests that this divide may force Trump to choose sides between his original white, working-class supporters&nbsp;and the techno-libertarian billionaires like&nbsp;Musk who are central to his new administration.
Why It Matters: The ongoing infighting within the MAGA base and the Republican Party at large could have significant implications for the future of the party and its political strategies. 
The schism between the traditional white, working-class supporters&nbsp;and the techno-libertarian billionaires like&nbsp;Musk could force a reevaluation of the party&#8217;s stance on key issues such as immigration and labor. 
This could, in turn, influence the party&#8217;s appeal to different voter demographics and its prospects in future elections.
Read Next 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/11/41869001/heres-how-trumps-policies-might-shape-the-markets-future" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Here's How Trump's Policies Might Shape The Market's Future</a>
This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Elon Musk Weighs In On MAGA Divide, Urges GOP To Purge 'Contemptible Fools'

Leading CEOs from the tech industry are reportedly courting favor with President-elect Donald Trump, indicating a significant change in corporate America&#8217;s approach towards his upcoming term.
What Happened: High-profile business leaders have been visiting Trump at his Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago, marking a stark contrast to the reception he received following his 2016 election victory. 
Among the attendees were&nbsp;Amazon&#8217;s Jeff Bezos,&nbsp;Apple&#8217;s Tim Cook,&nbsp;Google&#8217;s Sundar Pichai, and&nbsp;TikTok&#8217;s&nbsp;CEO Shou Zi Chew.&nbsp;Meta&#8217;s&nbsp;Mark Zuckerberg had a meeting with Trump last month.
Trump, who secured his election victory&nbsp;with 49.8 percent of the&nbsp;vote, shared his enthusiasm on Truth Social, <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113679845810455086">saying </a>that &#8220;EVERYBODY WANTS TO BE MY FRIEND!!!&#8221; 
He also observed a marked shift in attitude compared to his first term, noting that there seems to be a greater willingness to cooperate this time around.
Former&nbsp;Microsoft&nbsp;CEO Bill Gates is also said to have requested a visit. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42635450/why-trump-wants-debt-ceiling-killed-before-he-takes-office">Why Trump Wants Debt Ceiling Killed Before He Takes Office</a>
In a&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113725094327948716" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">post</a>&nbsp;on Truth Social on Friday, Trump said that Gates had asked to come to Mar-a-Lago. The 78-year-old Republican encouraged him to visit.
"Where are you? When are you coming to the ‘Center of the Universe,' Mar-a-Lago. Bill Gates asked to come, tonight. We miss you and x! New Year's Eve is going to be AMAZING!!!" Trump wrote. He signed it "DJT."
Why It Matters: This change in corporate America&#8217;s stance towards Trump could be motivated by a desire for influence or a fear of potential backlash. 
Major corporations&nbsp;such as Amazon, Meta, OpenAI, and Perplexity have pledged to donate $1 million each to Trump&#8217;s inaugural fund. 
This shift underlines the importance of political engagement for these tech giants, who are likely seeking to ensure their interests are represented in the upcoming administration.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42257531/heres-how-ray-dalio-thinks-trumps-second-term-could-reshape-the-us-and-the-world" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Here's How Ray Dalio Thinks Trump's Second Term Could Reshape the US and the World</a>
This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Tech Titans Warm Up To Donald Trump, Who Says 'Everybody Wants To Be My Friend,' Claims Bill Gates Asked To Come To Mar-a-Lago

An Azerbaijan Airlines flight which crashed on Christmas Day in Kazakhstan was reportedly hit by &#8220;external interference&#8221; over Russia, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42711444/national-security-councils-kirby-notes-early-indications-of-russian-link-in-azerbaijan-crash" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to Azerbaijan&#8217;s transport minister, </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42711444/national-security-councils-kirby-notes-early-indications-of-russian-link-in-azerbaijan-crash" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rashad Nabiyev</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42711444/national-security-councils-kirby-notes-early-indications-of-russian-link-in-azerbaijan-crash" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">.</a>
The crash, which claimed 38 lives, occurred after the plane, a Brazilian-made Embraer 190, was diverted to Kazakhstan from Russia&#8217;s Chechnya region due to damage sustained during flight, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy4717j21kko" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> BBC.
Passengers onboard reported hearing three blasts above Grozny, leading to speculation that the aircraft had been struck by Russian air defense systems.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42686735/azerbaijan-airliner-crash-kills-38-weather-russia-under-scrutiny" rel="noreferrer noopener">Azerbaijan Airliner Crash Kills 38: Weather, Russia Under Scrutiny</a>
Russian authorities have yet to comment, though Dmitry Yadrov, head of Russia&#8217;s civil aviation agency, claimed that the region was under threat from Ukrainian drone attacks, and a &#8220;Carpet plan&#8221; was enacted, clearing aircraft from the area.
He also mentioned dense fog over Grozny airport, which could have contributed to the incident.
The U.S. government has confirmed receiving early indications that Russian air defense systems may have downed the plane, although they have refrained from making a definitive statement.
Azerbaijan Airlines has pointed to &#8220;physical and technical external interference,&#8221; which experts believe involved GPS jamming and missile shrapnel damage, BBC adds.
One flight attendant described hearing a &#8220;strike,&#8221; which injured her arm. Pilot Tahir Agaguliev speculated that the missile exploded nearby, with shrapnel damaging the aircraft&#8217;s hydraulics.
Despite the damage, the pilots managed to land the plane, saving 29 lives.
Azerbaijan is demanding Russia acknowledge its responsibility for the incident, similar to the apology Russia extended in 2020 when it shot down an Azerbaijani helicopter.
Meanwhile, Azerbaijan Airlines suspended flights to several Russian cities, including Grozny and Sochi, citing security concerns. The investigation is ongoing, with Azerbaijan pushing for an international inquiry rather than one led by Russia or Kazakhstan.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42677932/russian-firms-adopt-bitcoin-for-global-trade-in-response-to-western-sanctions-should-be-expanded-and-developed-further" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russian Firms Adopt Bitcoin For Global Trade In Response To Western Sanctions: &#8216;Should Be Expanded And Developed Further&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Markets

Media

General

Azerbaijan Airlines Flight Hit by 'External Interference' Over Russia Before Fatal Crash

In an interview with Fortune in 2013, legendary investor Warren Buffett shared his insights on avoiding speculative investing and adopting a disciplined, long-term approach. 
What Happened: Buffett, known for his value investing philosophy, highlighted the importance of understanding the productive potential of assets rather than making impulsive decisions based on market noise.
During the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzuTj_t7ILs&amp;t=2s">interview</a>, Buffett compared evaluating stocks to assessing tangible investments like farms or apartment buildings. For a farm, he advises calculating expected crop yields and determining their value. 
Similarly, for an apartment building, rental income should be weighed against taxes and expenses to estimate the expected return. In both cases, the focus should be on paying a fair price for the asset's productive potential.
&#8220;You always want to look at the productive ability of the assets you're buying, whether it's a farm, an apartment house, or a company. The company is represented by a stock. If you always get your money's worth, you'll do very well,&#8221; Buffett said. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42663704/warren-buffetts-timeless-advice-if-youre-gonna-do-dumb-things-because-your-stock-goes-down-you-shoul">Warren Buffett&#8217;s Timeless Advice: &#8216;If You&#8217;re Gonna Do Dumb Things Because Your Stock Goes Down, You Shouldn&#8217;t Own A Stock At All&#8217;</a>
&#8220;If you buy a farm, you look at the farm and say, "I expect to get so many bushels per acre of corn or soybeans." Then you figure out how much that will be worth and you figure out what the price should be. If you buy an apartment house, you should look at what the rentals will be, what the taxes and expenses will be, and then decide how much income you'll have. You pay a fair price for that,&#8221; Buffett added. 
However, when it comes to stocks, Buffett warned against buying based on hearsay or speculative advice. He encouraged investors to prioritize the long-term productive ability of assets over short-term price movements. 
"The biggest mistake people make is listening to a lot of other people and buying something because they think it's going to go up next week or next month, for whatever reason people give you. You should understand what you buy," he said. 
He emphasized that understanding the intrinsic value of a company, which a stock represents, is key to successful investing.
&#8220;With stocks, their neighbor whispers something to them and then run out and spend money that it took them years to earn,&#8221; Buffett said. 
Why It Matters: This advice aligns with Buffett's broader philosophy of value investing, which has guided his decades-long track record of outperforming the market. 
His focus on fundamentals serves as a reminder that patience and careful evaluation remain the cornerstones of sound investing.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40666605/warren-buffetts-career-advice-dont-think-about-money-take-the-job-that-you-would-take-if-you-didnt-n">Warren Buffett&#8217;s Career Advice: &#8216;Don&#8217;t Think About Money, Take The Job That You Would Take If You Didn&#8217;t Need The Job&#8217;</a>
This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Warren Buffett's Stock Market Advice: Ignore Neighbor's Whispers On Stock Tips, Focus On Long-Term Value

Anthony Scaramucci, the former White House communications director, has urged&nbsp;Elon Musk&nbsp;to focus on his thriving businesses and refrain from political involvement. 
What Happened: Scaramucci, who had a brief stint in the first Donald Trump administration and has since become a vocal critic of the President-elect, praised Musk&#8217;s business prowess.
Speaking with CNN in an interview last week, he said of Musk, &#8220;Stick to business. You've done great. You've made a couple hundred billion dollars since the election.&#8221;
He further warned Musk about the potential pitfalls of political involvement, saying, &#8220;Lay&nbsp;off the gas on politics&nbsp;a little bit because these&nbsp;people, these people could hurt&nbsp;you.&#8221;
While acknowledging Musk&#8217;s significant influence during the 2024 election, Scaramucci expressed doubts about Musk&#8217;s ability to exert the same level of influence in Washington. 
Despite Musk&#8217;s large following and significant influence, Scaramucci advised him to tread carefully. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42378550/musk-kicked-in-more-than-a-quarter-billion-dollars-to-trump-and-gop">Musk Kicked In More Than a Quarter-Billion Dollars To Trump and GOP</a>
He stated, &#8220;He's&nbsp;just got to be very,&nbsp;very careful because he's making&nbsp;enemies that he doesn‘t realize,&#8221; and added, &#8220;And&nbsp;the incentives in Washington are&nbsp;totally different than those in&nbsp;business.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Can he do the fandango like in that Queen song?
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1871485780037972349?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Responding to Scaramucci&#8217;s advice, Musk asked whether Scaramucci could &#8220;do the fandango like in that Queen song,&#8221; a reference to the line &#8220;Scaramouche, Scaramouche, will you do the Fandango&#8221; in the song &#8220;Bohemian Rhapsody.&#8221;</figcaption></figure>
Why It Matters: Scaramucci&#8217;s advice to Musk comes at a time when the latter&#8217;s influence has been growing, not just in the business world but also in the political sphere. 
Musk&#8217;s significant role in the 2024 election and his large following are testament to his influence. However, Scaramucci&#8217;s cautionary words highlight the potential dangers that come with political involvement, especially for someone who is primarily a business figure. 
The different incentives and dynamics in Washington, as compared to the business world, could pose challenges and risks for Musk.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41082363/heres-how-elon-musk-has-become-a-pro-trump-political-influencer-through-social-media">Here&#8217;s How Elon Musk Has Become A Pro-Trump Political Influencer Through Social Media</a>
This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Anthony Scaramucci Tells Musk To 'Stick To Business' — Here's Musk's Musical Response

President-elect Donald Trump&#8217;s repeated calls to defund public media have put organizations like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/recent" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NPR and PBS on high alert</a>.
Trump has long criticized outlets like NPR and PBS, accusing them of promoting liberal bias, and has vowed to cut all federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which supports public media, The Guardian <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/dec/28/trump-npr-pbs-funding-cut" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
In April on Truth Social, Trump called NPR a &#8220;total scam&#8221; and demanded an end to its funding.
His criticism follows a longstanding pattern of Republican efforts to reduce or eliminate public media funding, dating back to the 1967 creation of the CPB.
The CPB provides grants to over 1,500 public radio and TV stations across the country, helping ensure editorial independence while also allowing for local fundraising.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/12/42713893/benzinga-bulls-and-bears-quantum-computing-tesla-amd-and-whales-buy-270-million-dogecoin-over-4-days">Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Quantum Computing, Tesla, AMD — And Whales Buy 270 Million Dogecoin Over 4 Days</a>
Trump&#8217;s allies, including Elon Musk, have joined the chorus. Musk, after labeling NPR as &#8220;state-affiliated media&#8221; in 2023, has called for the defunding of NPR, echoing Trump&#8217;s anti-public media stance, the report adds.
His recent collaboration with Vivek Ramaswamy to reduce government spending includes proposed cuts to the CPB&#8217;s $535 million budget.
Despite these efforts, public media remains deeply embedded in American life, with 99% of the population within reach of public radio or TV, The Guardian adds.
Yet the U.S. spends far less on public media compared to other countries. Critics argue that defunding public media would harm rural communities, where stations are often crucial for local news and emergency alerts.
While bills to defund NPR and PBS are currently before Congress, the challenge of transferring emergency alert responsibilities and the two-year funding cycle for the CPB could slow these efforts.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/12/42707484/exxonmobil-stock-navigates-death-cross-market-signals-turn-bearish-for-the-oil-giant" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ExxonMobil Stock Navigates Death Cross: Market Signals Turn Bearish For Oil Giant</a></li>
</ul>

Trump's Threat to Defund Public Media Puts NPR and PBS on Edge

Dave Ramsey is synonymous with financial advice, but his journey to becoming a household name and building Ramsey Solutions – a $300 million business – is filled with humility, resilience and common sense lessons. Ramsey doesn't shy away from admitting his mistakes, jokingly claiming, "I've got a PhD in D.U.M.B." Here's how he turned those missteps into steppingstones for success.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From Rock Bottom to Financial Freedom</h2>
Over 35 years ago, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42514449/dave-ramsey-says-his-wife-wanted-to-leave-him-but-she-didnt-have-a-car-hitting-rock-bottom-financially-almost-ended-his-marriage">Dave Ramsey hit rock bottom</a>. In his late 20s, he went bankrupt. With a marriage hanging by a thread, two young kids and a mountain of fear, Ramsey recalls standing in the shower, crying because he didn't know what to do next.
Don't Miss:
<ul>
<li>Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/1milsaved"> The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
<li>It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $70 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a></li>
</ul>
But adversity became his teacher. He turned to biblical principles about money, which mirrored the advice of seasoned wealthy individuals. Ideas like living on less than you make, avoiding debt, budgeting and being generous became the foundation of his financial philosophy. Applying these principles helped his family recover and inspired him to help others do the same.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Birth of a Business</h2>
What started as a small ministry in his church, teaching others how to manage their finances, became a full-fledged business. Ramsey was reluctant to expand initially. "I didn't want employees," he admitted. "As far as I was concerned, employees come late, leave early and steal while they're there."
But as demand for his financial advice grew, so did the need to build a team. His first hire was a man named Russ Carroll and from there, the journey began. Ramsey's early days were filled with long hours, mistakes and hard lessons, but he kept pushing forward.
See Also: Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Five Stages of Business</h2>
Through trial and error, Ramsey identified five stages of business growth and shared them in a recent <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tHZEAXH6kqk">video</a>:
1. Treadmill Operator
Business owners are overwhelmed at this stage because they're doing everything themselves. Ramsey described his experience working 16-hour days, collapsing on the couch at night and barely remembering what he accomplished. &#8220;I was the CEO – the chief everything officer,&#8221; he says. It's a cycle of nonstop work, where cash flow becomes the primary concern and the business cannot function without the owner's constant presence.
2. Pathfinder
This stage involves a lack of clear direction, where the team feels uncoordinated and enthusiasm begins to drop. Ramsey discovered that the key to breaking out of this stage is defining a mission, vision and core values. For example, one of his breakthrough moments came when he fired an employee spreading negativity, clarifying the company's no-gossip policy and reigniting team alignment.
3. Trailblazer
Scaling the business requires implementing systems and processes while delegating leadership responsibilities. Ramsey recalled the game-changing decision to record <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/06/39316291/dave-ramsey-tells-americans-if-you-retire-broke-its-your-fault-explains-how-to-retire-with-1-mil">Financial Peace University</a> on video. This shift allowed him to expand his reach while freeing up his time. At this stage, businesses must also focus on strategic planning to prepare for larger growth.
Trending: The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gameflip"> for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market.</a>
4. Peak Performer
Businesses at this stage thrive financially and operationally, but the danger lies in becoming too comfortable. Ramsey emphasized the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/04/38254603/warren-buffett-says-the-key-to-success-isnt-having-the-greatest-business-idea-in-the-world-the-test">importance of staying innovative</a> and maintaining a culture of excellence. He shared how his team continually reevaluated systems and processes to keep improving, even when things were going well.
5. Legacy Builder
The final stage focuses on ensuring the business's success beyond the founder. For Ramsey, this meant rebranding his company to "Ramsey Solutions" and transitioning the "Dave Ramsey Show" to "The Ramsey Show." By developing future leaders and creating a succession plan, Ramsey ensures his company will continue to thrive long after his direct involvement.
Ramsey attributes much of his success to the "Momentum Theorem": Focused intensity over time, multiplied by God, equals unstoppable momentum.
He quickly acknowledges that his achievements combine relentless effort and divine grace. Ramsey says it's God's blessings, "but it's also 25 years of hard work."
Read Next:
<ul>
<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
<li>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.26/share!</a></li>
</ul>

'I've Got A PhD In D.U.M.B' – Dave Ramsey Reveals How He Built His $300 Million Business

Renowned financial educator&nbsp;and author Robert Kiyosaki&nbsp;has predicted a significant surge in Bitcoin&#8216;s (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) value by 2025, while expressing distrust in Black Rock&#8217;s handling of the cryptocurrency.
What Happened: In a post on X on Friday, Kiyosaki voiced his concerns about Larry Fink, the head of Black Rock, and his handling of Bitcoin.
He accused Fink of being a &#8220;Marxist&#8221; and a &#8220;Share Holder Capitalist,&#8221; suggesting that such individuals are suppressing Bitcoin&#8217;s price for personal gain.
&#8220;Larry Fink dumping Bitcoin. VIVEK warned Larry Fink of BLACK ROCK is a Marxist. Vivek warned Fink &amp; Black Rock are Share Holder Capitalist not Stake Holder Caplitist. Share Holder Capitalists are Marxist….like Klaus Schwab who state: "Someday you'll own nothing and you'll be happy," he wrote in the post. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42677439/kiyosaki-warns-of-global-financial-crisis-protect-your-wealth-by-investing-in-real-assets">Kiyosaki Warns of Global Financial Crisis: &#8216;Protect Your Wealth by Investing in Real Assets&#8217;</a>
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Larry Fink dumping Bitcoin. VIVEK warned Larry Fink of BLACK ROCK is a Marxist. Vivek warned Fink &amp; Black Rock are Share Holder Capitalist not Stake Holder Caplitist. Share Holder Capitalists are Marxist….like Klaus Schwab who state: "Someday you'll own nothing and you'll be…
&mdash; Robert Kiyosaki (@theRealKiyosaki) <a href="https://twitter.com/theRealKiyosaki/status/1872665122440704137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Kiyosaki further stated his preference for keeping Bitcoin in his own wallet, expressing distrust in Black Rock&#8217;s Bitcoin ETF. Despite his criticisms, Kiyosaki remains bullish on Bitcoin, predicting it will reach $350,000 in 2025.
&#8220;I love Bitcoin in my own wallet. I would not trust Bitcoin in Black Rocks ETF. Black Rock suppressing Bitcoin price so the whales can buy Bitcoin at under $100k. I will keep buying more Bitcoin because Bitcoin going higher. I predict Bitcoin to hit $350 k in 2025,&#8221; he added in the post. 
Why It Matters: Kiyosaki&#8217;s comments come amid a broader debate about the role of institutional investors in the cryptocurrency market. His criticisms of Black Rock and Larry Fink reflect concerns about potential market manipulation and the concentration of power in the hands of a few large players.
Despite these concerns, Kiyosaki&#8217;s bullish prediction for Bitcoin suggests he remains confident in the cryptocurrency&#8217;s long-term potential. 
His comments highlight the ongoing tension between the decentralized ethos of cryptocurrencies and the increasing involvement of traditional financial institutions.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42255036/kiyosaki-on-bitcoin-100000-almost-impossible-for-the-poor-and-middle-class-to-catch-up">Kiyosaki on Bitcoin $100,000: &#8216;Almost Impossible for the Poor and Middle Class to Catch Up&#8217;</a>

Kiyosaki Warns Of Bitcoin In Black Rocks ETF: 'It Is Suppressing Bitcoin Price'

Geologists have discovered a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/05/38895301/solitario-resources-finds-new-gold-zones-in-south-dakota-highest-grade-samples-collected">large gold deposit</a> in Hunan Province, China and experts call it a "supergiant." The Geological Bureau of Hunan Province announced their discovery in the Wangu gold field. It is estimated to contain 1,000 metric tons of gold, valuing around 600 billion yuan or almost $83 billion. However, some experts question the feasibility of this finding and whether the scope is as large as estimates say.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Discovery</h2>
According to Xinhua News Agency, the deposit was identified through extensive exploration, which included drilling 150,000 meters and analyzing 40 distinct gold veins. The highest-grade samples contained 138 grams of gold per ton of ore, surpassing the typical benchmark of eight grams for high-grade deposits. The initial exploration discovered 300 tons of gold at depths of up to 2,000 meters. Further analysis suggests that the deposit could extend up to 3,000 meters.&nbsp;
Don't Miss:
<ul>
<li>‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">You can invest today for just $0.26/share with a $1000 minimum.</a></li>
<li>Over the last five years, the price of gold has increased by approximately 83% — Investors like Bill O&#8217;Reilly and Rudy Giuliani are using this platform to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/american-hartford-gold">create customized gold IRAs to help shield their savings from inflation and economic turbulence. </a></li>
</ul>
Liu Yongju, vice head of the Geological Bureau of Hunan Province, said that technological advancements like 3D geological modeling played a large role in uncovering the deposit. Visible gold in rock cores was among the evidence supporting the claim of vast reserves.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Comparisons and Skepticism</h2>
If verified, this discovery could rival South Africa&#8217;s South Deep Mine, which holds approximately 900 metric tons of gold and is considered one of the largest deposits globally. However, some analysts, including those at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/24/12/42502069/gold-poised-for-its-best-year-in-a-decade-while-bitcoin-surges-analysts-eye-2025-as-a-golden-era-for-precious-metal-amid-michael-saylors-push-for-btc-as-a-reserve-asset">World Gold Council</a> (WGC), remain cautious.
John Reade, WGC's senior market strategist, emailed The Northern Miner to label the estimate of 1,000 metric tons as "aspirational." He pointed out that much more exploration would be needed to confirm the full scale of the deposit. He noted that Chinese reporting standards differ from global frameworks like Canada's NI 43-101 and Australia's JORC code, making independent verification necessary.
See Also: The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gameflip"> for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market.</a>
Challenges to mining at such depths – ranging from extreme heat to high operational costs – could delay or limit production. Reade noted that even if mining begins, the deposit would contribute only a fraction to global supply, approximately 3,600 metric tons annually.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Implications for China</h2>
China is already the world's largest gold producer, with reserves estimated at over 2,000 metric tons earlier this year, according to ScienceAlert. Yet, domestic production has declined due to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41158922/biden-signs-law-to-exempt-certain-us-chipmaking-facilities-from-federal-environmental-reviews-un">environmental regulations</a> and the closure of smaller mines. A find like this could bolster China's reserves and production capacity.
The discovery also comes as global gold prices rise amid economic uncertainty, increasing the potential economic impact of such a find. However, historical parallels, like the Sonbhadra gold deposit claim in India, which was debunked in 2020 according to Mining.com, underscore the need for rigorous verification.
Trending: It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $70 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Comes Next?</h2>
While the announcement has sparked excitement, experts urge caution. Developing a deposit of this size and depth will require years of investment and planning. Independent verification of the reserves will also be critical to establish credibility.
For now, the Wangu gold field represents a promising development in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/10/41398733/gold-surges-past-2-700-to-record-high-asia-and-europe-markets-in-green-global-markets-today-while-us">global gold market</a>, but whether it becomes a game-changer remains to be seen.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>
<li>If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?</li>
</ul>

Startups

$83 Billion Gold Deposit Unearthed In China – Is This The Largest Find In History?

Prominent MAGA figures have accused Elon Musk of silencing critics who challenge <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42713746/financial-crime-weekly-sec-charges-tai-mo-shan-with-misleading-terra-usd-investors-rocket-companies-sued-over-alleged-kickback-scheme" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">his views on immigration</a>.
The controversy erupted when at least 14 right-wing accounts reported losing access to premium features on X, including blue verification badges and monetization tools, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/28/elon-musk-accused-of-censoring-conservatives-on-x-over-immigration.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> CNBC.
This follows a wave of criticism targeting Musk's pro-immigration stance, particularly from anti-immigration factions within the MAGA movement.
The affected users, many affiliated with the media group ConservativeOG, said they were penalized after publicly voicing opposition to Musk's position.
These accounts saw their reach on the platform shrink significantly, triggering accusations that Musk was shadowbanning or censoring those who disagreed with him.
Read Next:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42687945/zelle-became-a-gold-mine-for-fraudsters-consumer-financial-protection-bureau-lawsuit" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;‘Zelle Became A Gold Mine For Fraudsters': Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Lawsuit</a>
Some of these individuals expressed concern that losing monetization features would impact their ability to continue posting content regularly.
In response to the growing controversy, Musk posted a "reminder" on X about the platform's algorithm, stating that accounts frequently blocked or muted by verified users would see their reach decline. 
However, this explanation only fueled further accusations of censorship. Critics felt that Musk, despite his claims of championing free speech, was punishing those who voiced opposition to his views on immigration.
Among those impacted was Preston Parra, head of ConservativeOG, who described the actions as a "political takedown" aimed at silencing conservative voices.
Parra vowed to continue fighting Musk's platform policies, which he sees as an attack on conservative values. The incident has sparked a broader debate over the influence of tech executives like Musk and their role in shaping political discourse, especially in light of his immigrant background and ties to pro-immigration figures.
The controversy highlights the ongoing tension between free speech advocates and those who believe social media platforms should regulate harmful content.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/12/42692036/billionaire-investors-michael-burry-david-tepper-could-benefit-from-chinas-stimulus-measures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Billionaire Investors Michael Burry, David Tepper Could Benefit From China's Stimulus Measures</a></li>
</ul>

MAGA Conservatives Accuse Elon Musk of Censorship Over Immigration Disagreements on X

According to data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), first-time homebuyers are now on average 38 years old, up three years from 2023 and nearly a decade older than buyers in the 1980s. The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/11/41876775/u-s-homebuyers-are-now-56-on-average-as-younger-generations-struggle-with-wildly-unaffordable-market-housing-expert-warns">median age for all homebuyers reached 56</a>, jumping seven years from 2023&#8217;s figure of 49.
Money talks in today&#8217;s market, with one-third of home purchases made in cash compared to one-fourth during the late 2010s. Existing homeowners tap their home equity for substantial down payments, outmaneuvering first-timers who must borrow at higher rates.
Don't Miss:
<ul>
<li>Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl-y2"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a></li>
<li>This Jeff Bezos-backed startup will allow you to <a href="https://arrivedhomes.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=15&amp;aff_id=1006&amp;aff_sub=yahoo&amp;aff_sub2=byerscta100">become a landlord in just 10 minutes, with minimum investments as low as $100 for properties like the Byer House from Stranger Things.</a></li>
</ul>
The share of first-time buyers fell to 24% of the market – down from 32% last year and well below the pre-2008 level of 40%. A Redfin survey found 40% of current homeowners acknowledge they couldn&#8217;t afford their homes at today&#8217;s prices.
Location compounds the challenge. High-paying jobs cluster in cities like Boston, New York, San Francisco, San Jose and Los Angeles, where less than 10% of listed homes fall within reach of median-income households.
Family wealth shapes buying power. A Redfin-commissioned survey revealed over one-third of buyers under 30 planned to use family cash gifts for down payments. University of Chicago economists found children of homeowners face better odds of achieving homeownership themselves, according to HousingWire.
See Also: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die." <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/connect-invest-real-estate-notes-y2">These high-yield real estate notes that pay 7.5% &#8211; 9% make earning passive income easier than ever.</a>
&#8220;To reverse these trends, we must address the root causes of unaffordability. That means building starter homes, reforming zoning laws and creating pathways for economic mobility that don&#8217;t rely so heavily on homeownership,&#8221; HousingWire said.
Most new mortgage holders are young borrowers from diverse backgrounds. While they stand to gain from homeownership&#8217;s long-term benefits, many report working longer hours or postponing medical care to afford payments.
The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/09/41082529/its-not-a-housing-crisis-but-a-housing-policy-crisis-homebuilders-call-out-roadblocks-as-prices-surg">affordability and policy crisis hits hardest in major job markets</a>. Cities with strong employment opportunities show median home prices far exceeding what typical earners can afford, forcing extended rental periods while saving for down payments.
Trending: Unlock the hidden potential of commercial real estate —<a href="https://equitymultiple.com/benzinga?invite=benzinga&amp;utm_campaign=product-promotion-earn&amp;utm_source=yahooFinance&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_content=unlockboost-yahoo"> This platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a>
Cash buyers dominate the landscape as existing homeowners leverage equity gains from recent years. First-time buyers face a triple threat: high prices, elevated interest rates and competition from buyers with ready cash.
The generational wealth gap widens as homeownership becomes more difficult for those without family assistance. Potential buyers lacking inherited wealth or homeowner parents face steeper climbs toward ownership.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/go/arrived-private-credit-yf">Arrived Home's Private Credit Fund&#8217;s has historically paid an annualized dividend yield of 8.1%&#x2A;</a>, which provides access to a pool of short-term loans backed by residential real estate with just a $100 minimum.<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/go/arrived-private-credit-yf"> </a></li>
<li>Commercial real estate has historically outperformed the stock market, and<a href="https://equitymultiple.com/benzinga?invite=benzinga&amp;utm_campaign=product-promotion-earn&amp;utm_source=yahooFinance&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_content=stockmarket-yahoo"> this platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate with as little as $5,000 offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a></li>
</ul>

Real Estate

38 Years Old, 56 Years Old: America's Homebuyers Are Older – And Wealthier – Than Ever

In a recent forecast, Anthony Pompliano, founder of Morgan Creek Capital, anticipates a significant upswing for Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42638493/crypto-analyst-2025-will-continue-to-be-a-great-year-for-bitcoin">broader crypto market in 2025</a>.
What Happened: Pompliano, a prominent crypto advocate, asserts that digital assets are gaining traction in the conventional finance sector, which will act as a key driver in 2025.
Recently <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-bPxXF-34XE">on</a> Fox Business, Pompliano said, &#8220;I think the big story of 2025 is going to be that crypto has now grown up and is part of the traditional financial system.&#8221;
He further emphasized that Bitcoin will continue to dominate the crypto sphere, with the majority of capital influx from the traditional sector being directed towards Bitcoin.
&#8220;I think that Bitcoin is the king and will remain the king. Most of the capital flows from the traditional world are going into Bitcoin. There are going to be other assets that enter into the market, you obviously see the Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) ETF get approved and you'll probably see others get approved as well,&#8221; he said during the interview. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42380983/this-analyst-says-bitcoin-could-reach-200k-by-end-of-2025">This Analyst Says Bitcoin Could Reach $200K By End of 2025</a>
Pompliano also pointed out that the case for any crypto other than Bitcoin is essentially a technological one, drawing parallels to the choice between tech behemoths such as Google, Amazon and Facebook.
&#8220;The argument for anything other than Bitcoin is a very different one, it's a technology argument. It's no different than trying to pick between Google, Amazon, and Facebook. The Bitcoin argument is much more akin to ‘Do I want to protect my purchasing power?&#8217;"
Despite the recent declaration by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell that the U.S. is legally prohibited from holding BTC as a reserve asset, Pompliano maintains a positive outlook for Bitcoin&#8217;s future. At the time of the report, Bitcoin was trading at $94,108, reflecting a 2.1% drop on the day.
Why It Matters: Pompliano&#8217;s forecast comes at a time when cryptocurrencies are increasingly being recognized and adopted by traditional financial institutions. 
This growing acceptance, coupled with technological advancements in the crypto space, is expected to fuel the predicted surge in 2025. 
Despite regulatory hurdles, such as the recent statement by the Fed Chair, the optimism surrounding Bitcoin and other digital assets remains high, indicating a promising future for the crypto market.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42155010/bitcoins-bull-run-betting-on-a-125k-finish-to-2024" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin's Bull Run: Betting On A $125K Finish To 2024</a>

Analyst Says This Single Factor Could Propel Bitcoin And Crypto To New Heights In 2025

Ever wondered what it feels like to become a millionaire? Kevin O'Leary, aka &#8220;Mr. Wonderful&#8221; from Shark Tank, has an answer that might surprise you: He doesn't remember – and he doesn't care.
For many, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/42223593/70-of-millionaires-dont-think-theyre-rich-even-though-people-are-wealthier-than-ever-they-dont-feel-it">hitting the millionaire milestone feels like</a> the ultimate dream. But O'Leary says it's not about the money. "People ask me all the time, ‘What did it feel like to become a millionaire?' My answer? I don't remember," Kevin shared. "That's not why I did it. It's not about chasing money."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">People always ask me, ‘What did it feel like to become a millionaire?' My answer? I don't remember—and I don't care. Chasing money isn't the goal. Solve big problems, and the money will come. But here's the real prize: personal freedom. That's what it's all about. Go solve… <a href="https://t.co/9BFYLGkP7f">pic.twitter.com/9BFYLGkP7f</a>
&mdash; Kevin O&#39;Leary aka Mr. Wonderful (@kevinolearytv) <a href="https://twitter.com/kevinolearytv/status/1870486863116636248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Don't Miss:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.</li>
<li>Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/1milsaved"> The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">It's About Solving Problems and Gaining Freedom</h2>
So, if it's not about the money, what is it about? According to Kevin, the real reward is personal freedom. "Solve big problems and the money will come," he explains. But it's freedom – being able to do what you love on your terms – that makes it all worthwhile.
Kevin believes that when you're passionate about solving problems, financial success naturally follows. But he also points out that the journey doesn't end when the bank account hits seven figures. In fact, for him, the work only got more exciting. "I woke up rich one day, but I didn't care. I work harder now than I ever did before."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elon-musk-told-the-u-n-if-they-could-show-a-plan-for-ending-world-hunger-hed-donate-6-billion-i-will-sell-tesla-stock-right-now-and-do-it">Elon Musk Told The U.N. If They Could Show A Plan For Ending World Hunger He'd Donate $6 Billion – ‘I Will Sell Tesla Stock Right Now And Do It'</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Retiring Early: A Dream or a Dull Reality?</h2>
Still, what he said earlier this year tells a somewhat different story. In his mid-30s, he sold his first company, Softkey, for $4.2 billion and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/09/40776473/it-was-boring-kevin-oleary-explored-every-beach-on-earth-after-he-first-got-rich-but-the-highs-and-l">decided to retire and live the dream</a>. He spent three years traveling to stunning beaches and exploring the world, but instead of happiness, he found boredom.
"I thought, ‘Hey, I'm 36, I can retire now.' And that's exactly what I did. But after three years, I realized it was really boring," Kevin admitted.
He discovered that work isn't just about money – it's about having a purpose. "Work gives you social interaction, keeps you thinking and makes life more interesting," Kevin says. That realization brought him back into the game, this time as an investor.
Trending: The number of ‘401(k)' Millionaires is up 43% from last year —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/401k-millionaires"> Here are three ways to join the club.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why the F.I.R.E. Movement Misses the Mark</h2>
Kevin's experience puts him at odds with the popular F.I.R.E. (Financial Independence, Retire Early) movement. While F.I.R.E. encourages people to save aggressively and retire young, Kevin says early retirement often results in a lack of fulfillment.
"This whole idea of Financial Independence, Retire Early <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/07/39938702/dave-ramsey-says-the-fire-movement-isnt-sustainable-to-caller-who-spent-5-years-working-3-jobs-t">doesn't work</a>," he explains. People think, &#8220;I'm going to retire early and life will be perfect,&#8221; but they're wrong. Staying engaged is how you stay sharp and healthy, according to O'Leary.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
<li>Many are using retirement income calculators to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a></li>
</ul>

Comments

Central Petroleum

Central Petroleum (CNPTF) Options

No option chain data available. Please try again later

Popular Channels

Tools & Features

Partners & Contributors

About Benzinga