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Honda&nbsp;Motor Co. Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HMC#NYSE">HMC</a>)&nbsp;CEO Toshihiro Mibe reportedly found it difficult to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42642773/honda-nissan-start-merger-talks">explain why its merger</a> with Nissan&nbsp;Motor Co. Ltd.&nbsp;(OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NSANY#OTC">NSANY</a>) is justified.
What Happened:&nbsp;Mibe encountered a challenging moment when asked to explain the reasoning behind a possible merger with&nbsp;Nissan.
When asked why the Honda-Nissan merger makes business sense, Mibe hesitated before replying, &#8220;That&#8217;s a difficult one,&#8221; which drew laughter from the journalists present, according <a href="https://insideevs.com/news/745625/honda-nissan-merger-struggling-reason/">to</a> a report by InsideEVs.
The merger discussions have generated both curiosity and skepticism worldwide, with many questioning the strategic advantages for the two automakers.&nbsp;Honda&nbsp;is grappling with challenges in the electric vehicle sector, particularly after its partnership with&nbsp;General Motors&nbsp;ended.
Despite the doubts,&nbsp;Julie Boote,&nbsp;an auto analyst with Pelham&nbsp;Smithers Associates, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-26/for-honda-a-nissan-rescue-comes-with-only-a-thin-silver-lining">told</a>&nbsp;Bloomberg&nbsp;that&nbsp;Honda&nbsp;must collaborate with another company to boost its EV and software capabilities.
See Also:&nbsp;<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>
Former&nbsp;Nissan&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Carlos Ghosn&nbsp;criticized the merger, stating,&nbsp;"That means you're putting control&nbsp;above performance," according <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-20/ghosn-says-honda-deal-talks-indicate-nissan-is-in-panic-mode">to</a> a Bloomberg report.
Why It Matters: Honda and Nissan are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42642773/honda-nissan-start-merger-talks">planning to create a joint holding company</a>, which will be listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange by August 2026. This move could potentially lead to the delisting of both&nbsp;Honda&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nissan.
Earlier reports&nbsp;highlighted that the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42541842/japanese-auto-giants-nissan-honda-eye-merger-says-nikkei">merger could involve&nbsp;Mitsubishi Motors</a>, where&nbsp;Nissan&nbsp;holds a 24% stake.
If successful, the combined entity could achieve annual sales exceeding eight million vehicles, positioning it among the world&#8217;s largest automakers, though still trailing behind&nbsp;Toyota Motor Corp.&nbsp;and&nbsp;Volkswagen AG.
Following the merger talks,&nbsp;Nissan&#8216;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/12/42545185/nissan-soar-over-20-on-merger-talks-with-honda-eyeing-8-million-annual-vehicle-sales">stock surged over 20%</a>, while&nbsp;Honda&#8216;s stock saw a slight decline.
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42677803/tesla-cybertrucks-popularity-threatens-ford-f-150-lightning-sales-shows-data?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla Cybertruck&#8217;s Popularity Threatens Ford F-150 Lightning Sales, Shows Data</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

News

Global

Tech

NSANY

Honda CEO Struggles To Justify Potential Nissan Merger: 'That's A Difficult One'

Apple Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) has stopped selling its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/09/28783180/apple-event-recap-improved-iphone-14-features-high-end-apple-watch-emergency-satellite-communication">iPhone 14</a>, iPhone 14 Plus,&nbsp;and third-generation iPhone SE models across most European Union countries.
What Happened: Apple's decision is a response to new EU regulation requiring USB-C ports for&nbsp;smartphones with wired charging capabilities.
The affected iPhone models have been&nbsp;removed from Apple&#8217;s online store&nbsp;in several countries, including&nbsp;Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France,&nbsp;Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands,&nbsp;Spain, and Sweden.
The regulation, effective Dec. 28, applies to any iPhone unit placed for sale after that date, even older models. While the iPhone 15 and iPhone 16 models comply with the regulation, the iPhone 14 and SE models do not.
See Also: <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">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, Here&#8217;s What Analysts Say</a>
Although the UK is not impacted due to its exit from the EU, Northern Ireland remains affected as it&nbsp;participates in the EU&#8217;s single&nbsp;market.
Apple began phasing out&nbsp;these models last week, with in-store availability expected to vary as remaining inventory is sold out.
A&nbsp;fourth-generation iPhone SE with a&nbsp;USB-C port is anticipated in March, allowing for a quick return to the EU market.
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: The EU&#8217;s mandate for USB-C ports has been a long time coming. Back in October 2022,&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;confirmed its compliance with the EU&#8217;s directive, which requires a standardized charger for consumer electronic devices starting in 2024.
Apple&#8217;s senior vice president, Greg Joswiak, acknowledged the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/10/29410006/apple-bows-to-fate-and-confirms-iphone-will-feature-usb-c-after-all">necessity to adhere to these regulations</a>.
In September 2023, Apple unveiled the iPhone 15 series, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/09/34501203/apple-iphone-15-series-with-usb-c-tetraprism-camera-announced-check-price-and-availability-details">featuring the much-anticipated USB-C port</a>, during its "Wonderlust" event. This move marked a significant shift for Apple, which had been a major contributor to the development of the USB-C port alongside industry giants like Intel.
Moreover, the EU&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/09/40943746/after-lightning-port-eu-targets-apples-iphone-and-ipad-systems-demands-greater-access-for-third-part">regulatory focus on Apple extends beyond hardware</a>. In September, the European Commission initiated proceedings to ensure Apple&#8217;s compliance with interoperability obligations under the Digital Markets Act. This includes granting greater access to third-party developers and businesses.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712643/trump-asks-supreme-court-to-delay-tiktok-ban-as-he-pursues-a-political-resolution">Trump Asks Supreme Court to Delay TikTok Ban As He Pursues A &#8216;Political Resolution&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

AAPL

Apple Halts iPhone 14, iPhone SE Sales In EU: Here's Why

On Friday, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authorized the first launch of Blue Origin&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40868010/jeff-bezos-blue-origin-names-new-glenn-1s-first-booster-so-youre-telling-me-theres-a-chance-heres-wh">New Glenn vehicle</a> after determining that the Jeff Bezos-owned company met all safety, environmental, and other licensing requirements. 
What Happened: The commercial space launch license, valid for five years, allows Blue Origin to conduct orbital missions from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida with the New Glenn. The first stage of the rocket will have to land on a barge in the Atlantic Ocean.
"By working closely with Blue Origin, the FAA issued this new launch license well in advance of the statutory deadline for the historic maiden flight of New Glenn," said the Associate Administrator for Commercial Space Transportation Kelvin B. Coleman.
Why It Matters: New Glenn is a reusable heavy-lift rocket named after&nbsp;John Glenn, the first American to orbit Earth. The development of the vehicle, expected to compete with SpaceX&#8217;s Falcon launch vehicle, has been delayed for years.
New Glenn, unlike Blue Origin&#8217;s New Shepard vehicle, can reach the Earth&#8217;s orbit and beyond.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38909990/90-year-old-breaks-record-as-oldest-astronaut-with-blue-origins-launch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New Shepard</a>, meanwhile, can only reach the edge of space.
&#8220;A big thanks to the FAA for the partnership, especially over the holidays&#8230;we are really close, folks,&#8221; Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp wrote on social media platform X upon receiving the launch license. 
<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">A big thanks to the FAA for the partnership, especially over the holidays. Here's to NG-1 &#8212; we are really close, folks. <a href="https://t.co/NImi0Lsn1o">https://t.co/NImi0Lsn1o</a>
&mdash; Dave Limp (@davill) <a href="https://twitter.com/davill/status/1872743150030340587?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 company also conducted a hotfire test of the integrated launch vehicle on Friday, marking the final major milestone ahead of its first flight. 
New Glenn&#8217;s first launch will mark the rocket's first National Security Space Launch certification flight. It will carry the company's Blue Ring Pathfinder &#8211; developed by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38909990/90-year-old-breaks-record-as-oldest-astronaut-with-blue-origins-launch">Blue Origin's</a> In-Space Systems business unit &#8211; as a payload.
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
Read Next:
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</ul>
Photo courtesy: Blue Origin

SPACE

Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin Gets License From FAA For New Glenn's Maiden Launch As It Takes On Elon Musk's SpaceX Falcon

EV giant Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) is now offering free lifetime supercharging on the purchase of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tesla-cybertruck">foundation series Cybertrucks</a> from its inventory in a bid to make it more enticing to potential buyers.
What Happened: Under the limited-period offer, customers who purchase the foundation series Cybertruck on or after Dec. 27 will be eligible for free supercharging during their ownership of the vehicle.
However, the vehicle owner will have to continue to pay supercharger fees like idle or congestion fees. While congestion fees refer to the charges to be paid by drivers who charge their electric vehicles beyond a certain level at &#8220;busy&#8221; supercharger stations, idle fees apply when vehicles stay connected to the charger post-full charging.
The offer cannot be transferred to another vehicle or person, the company noted on its website.
Earlier this month, Benzinga reported that Tesla is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42524912/teslas-99k-foundation-series-cybertrucks-still-available-a-sign-of-possible-demand-hurdles">continuing to sell its premium foundation series Cybertrucks in its inventory</a> in the U.S., implying that the company hasn't yet entirely sold out the units of the limited edition stainless steel truck it produced.
Why It Matters: Tesla's inventory in the U.S. now shows multiple new foundation series Cybertrucks, including the all-wheel drive variant and the more expensive Cyberbeast variant. While the foundation series all-wheel drive variant is priced at $99,990, the Cyberbeast is priced at $119,990.
The foundation series refers to a limited and pricier edition of the Cybertruck with laser-etched foundation series badges and premium accessories.
Tesla made only the foundation series Cybertrucks for the first few months of deliveries. Earlier this year, in October, Tesla started selling the regular version of Cybertruck priced about $20,000 lower than the foundation series. 
The foundation series trucks manufactured by the company for the U.S. market haven't seemingly been sold in totality, hinting at significant<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42501487/cybertruck-production-rate-was-reduced-even-before-decembers-production-pause-says-tesla-researcher"> demand challenges for the truck</a>.
Early in December, Tesla told its workers on the Cybertruck production line at Giga Texas that they need not report to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42283708/tesla-gives-cybertruck-production-line-workers-three-days-off-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">work for three days from Dec. 3 to Dec. 5</a>, implying a brief pause in production.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Future Of Mobility coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42700153/teslas-lawsuit-has-startup-evject-looking-at-a-potential-partnership-with-volkswagen">Tesla&#8217;s Lawsuit Has Startup EVject Looking At A Potential Partnership With Volkswagen</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

TSLA

Tesla Offers Free Lifetime Supercharging With Foundation Series Cybertruck As It Looks To Clear Inventory

Microsoft Corp.-backed (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) OpenAI&nbsp;has outlined its plans to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41043358/sam-altman-poised-for-10-5b-payday-as-openai-transitions-to-for-profit-model-with-150b-valuation-on">transition its for-profit entity</a>&nbsp;into a Delaware Public Benefit&nbsp;Corporation (PBC).
What Happened: Making the announcement, OpenAI said that it needs to evolve to align with&nbsp;its mission of ensuring artificial&nbsp;general intelligence (AGI) that benefits all humanity.
The company, currently structured with a nonprofit controlling a for-profit, intends to balance shareholder and stakeholder interests while maintaining its public benefit mission.
OpenAI&#8217;s existing nonprofit will receive shares in the new PBC, valued by independent financial advisors.
OpenAI&#8217;s blog <a href="https://openai.com/index/why-our-structure-must-evolve-to-advance-our-mission/">post</a> emphasized the need to evolve beyond a lab and startup to become an enduring company as the world builds new infrastructure for the 21st-century economy. The transition is expected to help OpenAI raise the necessary capital with conventional terms.
"As we enter 2025, we will have to become more than a lab and a startup — we have to become an enduring company," said OpenAI.
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
"The world is moving to build out a new infrastructure of energy, land use, chips, datacenters, data, AI models, and AI systems for the 21st century economy. We seek to evolve in order to take the next step in our mission, helping to build the AGI economy and ensuring it benefits humanity."
However, the plan faces opposition. Billionaire&nbsp;and OpenAI co-founder Elon Musk&nbsp;has filed for an injunction&nbsp;to halt the transition, accusing OpenAI of straying from its original mission.
Additionally,&nbsp;Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>)&nbsp;has also expressed concerns, arguing that the shift could have significant implications for Silicon Valley.
See Also:&nbsp;<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?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tech Bull Predicts 26% Upside For Apple Stock, Sees &#8216;Golden Era Of Growth&#8217; For Cupertino With AI-Driven iPhone Upgrade Cycle</a>
OpenAI&#8217;s current structure <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/11/35861275/the-reason-behind-sam-altmans-ouster-from-openai-could-be-something-elon-musk-has-been-complaining-a">led to the ousting</a> of CEO Sam Altman last November, causing investor dissatisfaction, particularly from Microsoft. The company continues to face challenges, including talent outflow and concerns about prioritizing commercial products over safety.
Why It Matters: The transition of OpenAI into a for-profit entity has sparked significant controversy, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42257564/musk-goes-to-court-to-block-openais-for-profit-transition">particularly from&nbsp;Musk</a>, who has taken legal action to block the move. Musk, a co-founder of OpenAI, has been vocal about his concerns, arguing that the transition could divert the company&#8217;s focus from its original mission.
Adding to the complexity,&nbsp;Mark Zuckerberg-led Meta&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42495758/elon-musk-finds-an-unlikely-ally-in-mark-zuckerbergs-meta-in-his-fight-against-sam-altmans-openai">has sided with Musk</a>, highlighting the potential misuse of assets developed under OpenAI&#8217;s nonprofit status. This alliance is notable given Musk&#8217;s recent public disagreements with Meta&#8217;s Mark Zuckerberg over AI advancements.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712643/trump-asks-supreme-court-to-delay-tiktok-ban-as-he-pursues-a-political-resolution">Trump Asks Supreme Court to Delay TikTok Ban As He Pursues A &#8216;Political Resolution&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Startups

MSFT

OpenAI Lays Out Its For-Profit Transition Plans, Says It Must Evolve To Advance Its AGI Mission

President-elect&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;has sought a "political resolution" of the TikTok ban, urging the Supreme Court to&nbsp;postpone a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/12/42496518/tiktok-ban-signed-into-law-what-it-means-for-americas-15-billion-small-business-economy">law that threatens to block the social media app</a>.
What Happened: The Supreme Court is set to hear arguments on Jan. 10 as it looks to rule on a law that requires TikTok&#8217;s parent company, ByteDance, to divest its U.S. operations by January 19 or face a ban.
Trump's new position represents a departure from his 2020 efforts to ban TikTok due to its Chinese ownership.
Trump&#8217;s attorney, D. John Sauer, emphasized that Trump is not taking a stance on the case&#8217;s merits but is requesting a delay in the divestment deadline.
"Instead, he respectfully requests that the Court consider staying the Act&#8217;s deadline for divestment of January 19, 2025, while it considers the merits of this case, thus permitting President Trump&#8217;s incoming administration the opportunity to pursue a political resolution of the questions at issue in the case," Sauer said, according to the report.
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
TikTok, which boasts over 170 million users in the U.S., argues that its American operations are free from Chinese influence.
See Also:&nbsp;<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">Steve Jobs Knew What MacBook Should Be Like In 1983 — It Took Apple 25 Years To Bring His Vision To Life</a>
Critics, including free speech advocates, have condemned the law, comparing it to censorship practices seen in authoritarian regimes.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department and several state attorneys general maintain that&nbsp;Chinese control of TikTok poses&nbsp;a national security threat.
Why It Matters: The TikTok ban has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/12/42496518/tiktok-ban-signed-into-law-what-it-means-for-americas-15-billion-small-business-economy">significant implications</a> for the U.S. economy, particularly affecting the $15 billion small business sector. The ban could disrupt the seven million small and medium-sized businesses that rely on the platform for revenue and brand growth.
Senate Minority Leader&nbsp;Mitch McConnell&nbsp;has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42568430/senate-minority-leader-mcconnell-urges-supreme-court-to-reject-tiktoks-delay-request-pushing-for-january-ban-amid-first-amendment-debate">urged the Supreme Court</a> to reject TikTok&#8217;s delay request, arguing that the platform seeks a less hostile Department of Justice under the Trump administration. His counsel, Michael A. Fragoso, dismissed TikTok&#8217;s First Amendment claims.
Additionally, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42495579/lawmakers-demand-apple-and-google-remove-tiktok-by-jan-19-what-you-need-to-know">U.S. lawmakers have directed</a>&nbsp;Apple Inc.&nbsp;and&nbsp;Alphabet Inc.&nbsp;to prepare for TikTok&#8217;s removal from their app stores by Jan. 19, following a federal appeals court ruling.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
Read Next:
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<li><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?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tech Bull Predicts 26% Upside For Apple Stock, Sees &#8216;Golden Era Of Growth&#8217; For Cupertino With AI-Driven iPhone Upgrade Cycle</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Social Media

Politics

Legal

Trump Asks Supreme Court to Delay TikTok Ban As He Pursues A 'Political Resolution'

Electric vehicles consume more energy during cold temperatures, mandating certain practices to ensure an ideal driver experience when the mercury drops. 
Below are a few tips for your Tesla Inc. EV this winter:
Leave Your Tesla Plugged In Whenever Possible:
Energy-intensive features like cabin and battery preconditioning rely on the charging power source instead of the EV battery when it is plugged in. Plugging in your vehicle will ensure you can use the battery to drive once you unplug it.
Preheat Battery Before Charging:
Preheating your battery will help maximize charging speed once you plug in. Cold batteries slow down the charging process.
Use Navigation To Get To A Supercharger:
When you use navigation to get to a supercharger, the vehicle automatically pre-heats the battery to maximize charging speed.
Do Not Let The Charge Drop Below 20%:
Keeping your vehicle charge over 20% will help reduce the impact of cold temperatures. Once the vehicle&#8217;s charge drops below 20%, it cannot warm the cabin or battery.
Park To Avoid Freezing:
Parking your vehicle inside a garage will help the vehicle to not get too cold, thereby avoiding the chances of door handles, windows, mirrors, and wipers freezing into place and mandating the use of heat to unfreeze them.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Future Of Mobility coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42668333/tesla-model-x-lucid-gravity-or-rivian-r1s-which-three-row-electric-suv-is-a-better-buy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla Model X, Lucid Gravity Or Rivian R1S: Which Three-Row Electric SUV Is A Better Buy?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Tesla

5 Tips For Your Tesla This Winter

JNVR

Trading Halt: Halted at 7:50:00 p.m. ET - Trading Halt: Halt News Pending

Hamilton Lane (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HLNE#NASDAQ">HLNE</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 7.44% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 20.52%. Currently, Hamilton Lane has a market capitalization of $6.33 billion. 
Buying $100 In HLNE: If an investor had bought $100 of HLNE stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $250.39 today based on a price of $151.55 for HLNE at the time of writing.
<h3>Hamilton Lane's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735343108_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Trading Ideas

HLNE

If You Invested $100 In This Stock 5 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42639340/bernie-sanders-is-all-for-canada-becoming-the-51st-state-if-the-u-s-will-also-adopt-universal-healthcare">Universal healthcare</a> has been debated in the United States for decades. A study from Yale University after the pandemic sheds light on its potential impact, the costs and benefits of adopting it and the lives it could have saved.&nbsp;
According to the study published by Yale researchers, more than 335,000 lives could have been saved from the start of the COVID-19 pandemic through March 2022 if the U.S. had a universal <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/08/40150567/charlie-munger-called-healthcare-industry-deeply-immoral-and-a-disgrace-claiming-providers-artif">single-payer healthcare system</a>. In 2020 alone, during the height of the pandemic, the study reported that 212,000 deaths could have been prevented.&nbsp;
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The study also revealed the potential economic benefits of a universal system like Medicare for All. In 2020, it could have saved the U.S. about $105 billion in COVID-19-related hospitalization costs. Beyond the pandemic, researchers estimate that universal healthcare could reduce national healthcare expenses by $438 billion annually during a typical year.&nbsp;
The Yale study determined the following factors would contribute to this potential cost savings:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Better access to preventive care: Catching and managing chronic conditions earlier would allow patients to avoid costly emergency treatments.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Lower administrative overhead: Single-payer systems streamline billing and reduce bureaucracy, saving billions.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Price negotiations: Giving <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/41852616/doctors-3-medicare-pay-cut-could-it-lead-to-fewer-providers-accepting-medicare-patients">Medicare</a> more control over negotiating drug and service prices could lower costs.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Alison Galvani, Ph.D., director of Yale's Center for Infectious Disease Modeling and Analysis and lead author of the study, said, "Americans are needlessly losing lives and money. Medicare for All would be an economic stimulus and life-saving transformation of our health care system."
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While the Yale study covered many potential benefits of universal healthcare for the U.S., transitioning to this system would have challenges. An article published by the National Library of Medicine outlined some of these challenges:
<ul>
<li>Implementing universal healthcare would require substantial upfront costs as the current healthcare infrastructure must undergo complete reform.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Funding universal healthcare would likely require higher taxes. Past proposals for this system have included increases in payroll and income taxes.&nbsp;</li>
<li>The U.S. would have several logistical hurdles to overcome, including significant regional disparities that would make ensuring an equitable system difficult.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
The U.S. spends more on health care per capita than other high-income countries. However, according to the Commonwealth Fund, it still lags behind nations with universal healthcare in key areas like life expectancy and preventable mortality rates.&nbsp;
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Those in favor of universal healthcare argue that it would address these issues and provide coverage to millions of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42491306/is-u-s-health-insurance-failing-the-sickest-and-poorest-new-study-reveals-49-million-americans-lack-proper-health-coverage">uninsured Americans</a>, reducing disparities in access to care. Critics, however, state that universal systems in other countries often face challenges like longer wait times and limitations on elective procedures. They are also concerned about the strain the upfront costs could have on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41564246/from-10-trillion-to-35-trillion-how-government-spending-has-spiraled-out-of-control">federal budget</a>.&nbsp;
The debate over universal healthcare in the U.S. is far from simple. The Yale study and others like it discuss the potential savings of lives and healthcare expenses for the average American. Implementing a system like this in the United States would take a lot of effort, including tackling financial, logistical and political barriers.&nbsp;
Whether universal healthcare is in the United States' future remains to be seen. For Americans concerned about the state of health care, these findings provide further context to understand what reform would take.&nbsp;
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Personal Finance

$438 Billion In Savings and 335,000 Lives: What It Would Cost The U.S. To Implement Universal Health Care

Booz Allen Hamilton (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAH#NYSE">BAH</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 5.96% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 17.18%. Currently, Booz Allen Hamilton has a market capitalization of $16.57 billion. 
Buying $100 In BAH: If an investor had bought $100 of BAH stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $488.69 today based on a price of $129.65 for BAH at the time of writing.
<h3>Booz Allen Hamilton's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735342207_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$100 Invested In Booz Allen Hamilton 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

United Rentals (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/URI#NYSE">URI</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 21.22% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 32.91%. Currently, United Rentals has a market capitalization of $47.02 billion. 
Buying $100 In URI: If an investor had bought $100 of URI stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $7,136.85 today based on a price of $716.54 for URI at the time of writing.
<h3>United Rentals's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735341308_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$100 Invested In United Rentals 15 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

Verisk Analytics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRSK#NASDAQ">VRSK</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 4.33% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 16.02%. Currently, Verisk Analytics has a market capitalization of $39.16 billion. 
Buying $1000 In VRSK: If an investor had bought $1000 of VRSK stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $9,289.78 today based on a price of $277.30 for VRSK at the time of writing.
<h3>Verisk Analytics's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735340408_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

VRSK

Here's How Much $1000 Invested In Verisk Analytics 15 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

Adobe (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADBE#NASDAQ">ADBE</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 6.35% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 18.04%. Currently, Adobe has a market capitalization of $196.54 billion. 
Buying $100 In ADBE: If an investor had bought $100 of ADBE stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $1,203.77 today based on a price of $446.48 for ADBE at the time of writing.
<h3>Adobe's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735338615_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

ADBE

If You Invested $100 In This Stock 15 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

Datadog (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DDOG#NASDAQ">DDOG</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 17.97% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 31.04%. Currently, Datadog has a market capitalization of $49.72 billion. 
Buying $1000 In DDOG: If an investor had bought $1000 of DDOG stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $3,931.86 today based on a price of $146.34 for DDOG at the time of writing.
<h3>Datadog's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735337707_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

DDOG

$1000 Invested In Datadog 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

Fluor (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLR#NYSE">FLR</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 8.46% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 21.53%. Currently, Fluor has a market capitalization of $8.59 billion. 
Buying $1000 In FLR: If an investor had bought $1000 of FLR stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $2,708.87 today based on a price of $50.06 for FLR at the time of writing.
<h3>Fluor's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735336808_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Here's How Much You Would Have Made Owning Fluor Stock In The Last 5 Years

The NFL aired two games on Christmas Day in 2024, a move that may have angered the NBA while also bringing in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42701434/netflixs-nfl-debut-brings-record-streams-but-lags-traditional-tv-report">impressive viewership figures.</a>
What Happened: While many sports leagues see strong viewership in the United States, the NFL has been king for years and that may have been even more evident with streaming records set Wednesday for its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42695495/netflix-nfl-games-show-super-bowl-contenders-mvp-frontrunner-poll-27-watch">premiere on streaming giant</a> Netflix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>).
Two NFL Christmas Day games featuring four teams who have made the NFL Playoffs broke records for the league with an average of 24.1 million viewers for the earlier Kansas City Chiefs at Pittsburgh Steelers game and an average of 24.3 million viewers for the Baltimore Ravens at Houston Texans game.
The <a href="https://about.netflix.com/en/news/netflix-nfl-christmas-gameday-reaches-65-million-us-viewers">ratings </a>beat a previous NFL streaming record of 23 million set by Comcast Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMCSA#NASDAQ">CMCSA</a>) with an exclusive game on Peacock during the previous NFL Playoffs. The figures also broke a regular-season record of 17.92 million set by the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers on Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) owned Prime Video in December, as reported by <a href="https://frontofficesports.com/nfl-netflix-debut-sets-streaming-records-as-nba-sees-84-increase/">FrontOfficeSports</a>.
Netflix said Nielsen data showed 65 million U.S. viewers watched at least one minute of the NFL games, with average viewership peaking at 27 million during Beyoncé&#8217;s halftime performance in the Ravens and Texans game.
NBA superstar LeBron James might not want to see the viewership figures and hear about the records.
After the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day, James declared the holiday as belonging to the NBA.
"I love the NFL. I love the NFL. But Christmas is our day," James said.
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Can NBA and NFL Both Win?: While Christmas produced records for the NFL, the NBA also enjoyed a strong day for viewership.
The NBA aired five games on Christmas Day, which aired on ABC, ESPN, ESPN+ and Disney+, all units of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>).
NBA Christmas Day games averaged 5.25 million viewers, up 84% year-over-year. Helping the viewership may have been the teams involved and the fact that all five games were available on ABC, while only two were last year.
This figure is the highest for the NBA on the holiday in five years. The Lakers and Warriors game averaged 7.76 million viewers, ranking as the NBA's most-watched Christmas Day game since 2019.
For the 2024 NBA season, viewership is now down 4% year-over-year after the Christmas day games, compared to being down 18% year-over-year ahead of Wednesday.
NBA viewership on ESPN platforms is now up 4% year-over-year, as reported by <a href="https://deadline.com/2024/12/nba-christmas-day-ratings-lakers-warriors-1236242578/">Deadline</a>.
The NBA could also benefit from the Christmas Day games, with its owned NBA League Pass reporting its most-viewed Christmas Day ever.
What's Next: For the NFL, encroaching on other sports isn't exactly new and likely won't be changing anytime soon.
The NFL began Monday Night Football games in 1970 and later added Thursday Night Football games in 2006, which now stream on Prime Video.
NFL games air on Saturdays during December and January, diverging from the league&#8217;s usual avoidance of the day for most of the season due to NCAA Football and the restrictions of the 1961 Sports Broadcasting Act. This year, the NCAA expanded its College Football Playoffs from four to 12 teams, leading to a rare head-to-head clash with the NFL last weekend.
On Saturday, Dec. 21, the NFL had two games, and there were three College Football Playoffs games, with two airing on TNT Sports, a unit of Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>), and one airing on ABC and ESPN.
Netflix has a three-year deal with the NFL and will stream at least one game on Christmas for the next two seasons.
The increase in Christmas Day games from the NFL might come as a bit of a surprise after the league said last year it was only scheduling games on Christmas 2023 because the day fell on Monday, a traditional NFL date, as <a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/lebron-james-i-love-the-nfl-but-christmas-is-the-nbas-day">reported </a>by NBC Sports.
The league said it wouldn't schedule games on Christmas if it fell on a Tuesday or Wednesday previously, according to the report, but strong viewership last year and the potential for more money may have changed the league's mind.
Netflix has more sports content coming with its WWE deal through a partnership with TKO Group Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TKO#NYSE">TKO</a>), premiering on Jan. 6.
The NBA is likely stuck with going head-to-head with the NFL on Christmas Day, regardless of what day the holiday falls on. One way for the NBA to get back at the NFL would be to start <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/11/42226470/heres-why-the-detroit-lions-dallas-cowboys-always-have-thanksgiving-day-nfl-games">scheduling games on Thanksgiving</a>, a date the league has avoided due to the NFL having three games that day.
NFLX Price Action: Netflix stock was down 1.8% to $907.55 on Friday, versus a 52-week trading range of $461.86 to $941.75.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Entertainment

Sports

AMZN

CMCSA

NFLX

LeBron James Vs. NFL: NBA Star Declares Christmas 'Our Day,' But 2024 Ratings Disagree

Murphy USA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MUSA#NYSE">MUSA</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 20.91% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 33.99%. Currently, Murphy USA has a market capitalization of $10.23 billion. 
Buying $1000 In MUSA: If an investor had bought $1000 of MUSA stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $4,297.27 today based on a price of $505.23 for MUSA at the time of writing.
<h3>Murphy USA's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1735335907_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

MUSA

Here's How Much $1000 Invested In Murphy USA 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said Friday there are "early indications" that Russian air defenses may have been involved in the Azerbaijan Airlines crash on Christmas Day, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42686735/azerbaijan-airliner-crash-kills-38-weather-russia-under-scrutiny">killing 38 and injuring 29.</a>
The Washington Post <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2024/12/27/azerbaijan-airlines-plane-crash-russia/">reports</a> Kirby emphasized these findings are preliminary, as investigations into the crash remain ongoing.
What Happened: The flight, en route from Baku to Grozny, diverted midflight before ultimately crashing in Kazakhstan. Kirby highlighted that the evidence extends beyond images of the damaged aircraft, though he declined to provide further details, according to WaPo.
Azerbaijani officials have also cited "external interference" as the likely cause, with initial investigations showing the wreckage bore marks consistent with an air-defense missile.
Passengers and crew reported hearing three explosions near Grozny, with cutting debris injuring those onboard. Azerbaijani Minister of Digital Development and Transport Rashad Nabiyev confirmed that the injuries were caused by objects piercing the fuselage, The Post reports.
Azerbaijani Airlines has since suspended flights to multiple Russian cities, citing ongoing safety concerns.
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Why It Matters: The suggestion of Russian involvement has amplified geopolitical tensions in a region already fraught with conflict. If confirmed, the incident would deepen mistrust between Azerbaijan and Moscow, raising broader questions about the safety of air travel in conflict zones.
The U.S. has offered to assist Azerbaijani and Kazakh officials in the investigation, underscoring the international significance of the findings.
Russian authorities initially blamed weather conditions and bird strikes but later mentioned drone activity near Grozny, which had triggered radar jamming. But survivors described an external impact according to The Post. &#8220;We felt a blow from outside,&#8221; a flight attendant said, noting the plane broke apart on impact.
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Photo: EvrenKalinbacak/Shutterstock.com

Eurozone

National Security Council's Kirby Notes Early Indications Of Russian Link In Azerbaijan Crash

In a quiet week for economic data, Wall Street&#8217;s focus shifted to the possibility of witnessing a "Santa Rally," the seasonal tendency for stocks to rise in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/12/42675763/santa-rally-serial-winners-10-stocks-historically-poised-for-big-year-end-gains">final days of December. </a>
Historically, the S&amp;P 500 has gained 64 times in the past 96 years during the Dec. 24–Dec. 31 window, averaging a 0.85% return.
The market began the week attempting a recover from the Federal Reserve's hawkish signals of fewer rate cuts in 2024. Yet, renewed volatility resurfaced on Friday, casting doubt on the Santa rally's resilience.
Investors remain cautious, as markets weigh Fed policy outlook against uncertainty surrounding the incoming Trump administration's economic plans.
Still, 2024 is shaping up to be a banner year. The S&amp;P 500 is on track to match last year's 24% surge, setting up a two-year gain of 55%, the strongest since 1999. U.S. stocks are also outperforming global markets by the widest margin since 1997, driven by the enduring strength of U.S. economic fundamentals.
On the leaderboards, Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) has surged 360%, overtaking Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), last year's top performer, which gained 175% in 2024.
Consumer Confidence Slips
U.S. consumer confidence, as measured by the Conference Board, declined in December, highlighting rising concerns <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/12/42657230/us-consumer-confidence-drops-in-december-expectations-signal-potential-economic-weakness-in-2025">about economic conditions</a>. A deeper drop in the expectations index, a key forward-looking measure, signals potential weakness in 2025 amid fears of persistent inflation and steady, high interest rates.
Tesla's Robotaxi Bet
Elon Musk envisions a Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)&#8217;s robotaxi fleet allowing owners to earn $40,000 annually. Despite the bold prediction, experts question the feasibility of the technology and regulatory challenges, suggesting Musk's vision remains aspirational rather than immediately achievable <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">in the near term.</a>
Trump's Tariff Impact
Goldman Sachs projects the Trump administration will raise tariffs on Chinese imports, averaging a 20% hike, with higher rates for non-consumer goods. This could increase consumer prices by 1%-2%, strain industrial margins, disrupt supply chains and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/12/42701155/made-in-china-paid-in-america-what-trumps-new-tariffs-mean-for-the-us-economy">ignite Chinese retaliatory measures,</a> the Wall Street firm says.
Cadillac EV Success
General Motors Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>)&#8217;s Cadillac Lyriq, priced at $60,000, became its best-selling EV in 2024 through the third quarter. The premium EV's success highlights a potential shift toward luxury electric vehicles as automakers target higher <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42666472/gms-60000-cadillac-lyriq-was-its-best-selling-ev-in-2024-as-of-q3-is-premium-the-way-to-go-for-ev-makers">margins and affluent buyers.</a>
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</ul>
Photo by Marek Maskin on Shutterstock

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