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Equifax and Mastercard partner to combat payment fraud in Latin America, providing enhanced tools to safeguard digital payments and drive growth.

Latin America&#39;s $160 Billion E-Commerce Market Gets a Security Boost with Equifax and Mastercard Alliance

xr:d:DAFrxhnsD6E:2,j:7588965345720756394,t:23081706

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ROST

Merrill Lynch Retail HOLDRS Trust due 12/31/41

Analysts express views on Ross Stores&#39; Q3 results, with EPS beating consensus but sales missing. Company expects weaker Q4. BofA maintains Buy rating.

Analysts See Growth Potential In Ross Stores Amid Holiday Season Optimism: Details

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet L Yellen reportedly said on Friday that the government has less than three weeks to raise its debt limit.
What Happened: Unless the government raises its debt limit, it will need to take &nbsp;"extraordinary measures" to sustain federal operations starting between Jan. 14 and Jan. 23, Yellen said in a letter to members of Congress, as <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/12/27/debt-ceiling-yellen/">reported</a> by The Washington Post.
The government is starting to run out of money to finance its debt obligations, she noted while urging Congress to act.
Why It Matters: The debt ceiling refers to the limit of how much the Treasury can borrow. Failing to raise it risks a government default, jeopardizing programs like Social Security, Medicaid, and housing assistance. A default could also spike interest rates, as the U.S. might lose its reputation as a creditworthy borrower.&nbsp;
Earlier this month, President-elect&nbsp;Donald Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42635450/why-trump-wants-debt-ceiling-killed-before-he-takes-office">called for either raising or completely eliminating the borrowing limit</a>, a move that could resolve the issue before he assumes office and allow him to pursue his agenda without future debt-ceiling battles.
&#8220;Congress must get rid of, or extend out to, perhaps, 2029, the ridiculous Debt Ceiling,&#8221; Trump wrote in a Truth Social&nbsp;<a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113683687655180611" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">post</a>. &#8220;Without this, we should never make a deal. Remember, the pressure is on whoever is President.&#8221;
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Photos courtesy: Shutterstock and Flickr

Government

Politics

Economics

US Government Has Less Than 3 Weeks To Raise Debt Ceiling Before Resorting To 'Extraordinary Measures,' Says Treasury Secretary Yellen

The world&#8217;s richest man Elon Musk earlier this week admitted to using the weight loss drug Mounjaro. 
What Happened: Musk on Christmas posted a picture of himself donning the Santa Claus costume with the caption &#8220;Ozempic Santa.&#8221; 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Ozempic Santa <a href="https://t.co/7YECSNpWoz">pic.twitter.com/7YECSNpWoz</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1872086971557761348?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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The billionaire later clarified that he uses Mounjaro but chose to caption his picture otherwise as Mounjaro doesn&#8217;t have the same &#8220;ring&#8221; to it as Ozempic. 
Musk said that he chose Mounjaro produced by Eli Lilly (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) over Ozempic produced by&nbsp;Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>) owing to seemingly fewer side effects. 
&#8220;High doses of Ozempic made me fart &amp; burp like Barney from the Simpson's. Mounjaro seems to have fewer side effects and be more effective,&#8221; he said. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">High doses of Ozempic made me fart &amp; burp like Barney from the Simpson's &#x1f923; Mounjaro seems to have fewer side effects and be more effective.
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1872109586947428455?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Musk has previously voiced his support for weight loss drugs saying that the health benefits of reducing obesity far exceed the side effects of using the drugs.
&#8220;While no drug is without side effects, health problems associated with obesity almost certainly exceed the risks of GLP-1 agonists,&#8221; Musk said as early as Oct. 2023. GLP-1&nbsp;agonists are a class of medications that can help manage Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Why It Matters: While Musk, who was named by President-elect Donald Trump to lead the Department of Government Efficiency, is all for weight-loss drugs, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42607280/elon-musk-vs-rfk-jr-obesity-crisis-debate-sparks-struggle-for-trumps-influence">is not.</a>
 In November, Trump selected Kennedy Jr.,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42254495/trumps-hhs-pick-rfk-jr-has-a-long-history-of-challenging-global-health-policies">known for his outspoken skepticism about vaccines</a>, to lead the Department of Health and Human Services which oversees drug regulation, among other things. 
Kennedy Jr. has previously voiced criticism for Ozempic, terming it as a means of gladdening the wallets of distant Big Pharma execs. In September, he criticized a New York Times opinion piece on Ozempic saying that the piece failed to acknowledge the causes behind obesity such as &#8220;our sickening food system&#8221; and sedentary lifestyle. 
&#8220;According to the writer, obesity seems to be a matter of lack—a lack of bariatric surgeries and a lack of Ozempic courtesy of Novo Nordisk, a Danish multinational whose wealth is bigger than Denmark's entire economy. As this drug becomes more widely available, the journalist seems to suggest, &#8216;America's biggest health problem&#8217; will be under control,&#8221; he wrote about the piece on social media platform X.
&#8220;Instead of fixing our food system and addressing the obesity crisis at its root, the author focuses on a drug that may palliate the symptom – and gladden the wallets of distant Big Pharma execs.&#8221;
&#8220;When I'm working in the next administration, I will address our sick food system—and the corrupt government agencies—to help make our country healthy again,&#8221; Kennedy Jr. then said while also adding that people should consider kitchen gardens instead of sending money to Denmark.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">The MSM cheerleading for Ozempic has begun! New op-ed in the NYT "Opinion &#x7C; Is Obesity a Disease? It's Complicated in the Age of Ozempic" does make a valid point: that weight-shaming is cruel and that obesity is not a failure of character (we are not, she rightly and humanely…
&mdash; Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) <a href="https://twitter.com/RobertKennedyJr/status/1839286350626914756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
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>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712726/jeff-bezos-blue-origin-gets-license-from-faa-for-new-glenn-maiden-launch">Jeff Bezos&#8217; Blue Origin Gets License From FAA For New Glenn&#8217;s Maiden Launch As It Takes On Elon Musk&#8217;s SpaceX Falcon</a></li>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Regulations

Elon Musk Admits To Using Weight Loss Medication Criticized By RFK Jr, Says He Prefers Mounjaro Over Miracle Drug Ozempic

Cyberhaven, a data-loss prevention startup, has confirmed a security breach involving its Google Chrome <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/google-chrome">browser extension</a>. Hackers managed to release a malicious update capable of stealing user passwords and session tokens.
What Happened: The breach was confirmed by&nbsp;Cyberhaven&nbsp;on Friday, although specifics were not disclosed. The email, shared&nbsp;by security researcher Matt Johansen,&nbsp;revealed that a company account was compromised to release the malicious update on Dec. 25.
This update allowed sensitive data to be extracted to the attacker&#8217;s domain.
The company stated that its security team identified the breach on December 25 and removed the malicious extension from the Chrome Web Store, replacing it with a legitimate version, according <a href="https://www.vulnu.com/p/breaking-cyberhaven-chrome-extension-compromised">to</a> a report by Vulnerable U.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42677149/nvidia-ces-2025-keynote-how-to-watch-jensen-huang-unveil-the-rtx-5000-series-gpus?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia CES 2025 Keynote: How To Watch Jensen Huang Unveil The RTX 5000 Series GPUs</a>
Cyberhaven&#8217;s email advised affected users to revoke and rotate passwords and review logs for suspicious activity.
The company has engaged an incident response firm and is cooperating with federal law enforcement.
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: This breach highlights ongoing security challenges related to browser extensions.
Earlier this year,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38031117/has-chrome-been-tracking-you-during-incognito-mode-the-answer-is-yes-and-now-google-says-it-will-del">Google faced scrutiny</a>&nbsp;over its Chrome browser&#8217;s privacy practices, particularly in &#8220;incognito&#8221; mode, where data collection was found to occur without user consent. This incident underscores the importance of robust security measures in browser extensions.
Amid these security concerns, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38684470/google-to-wield-ai-for-new-cybersecurity-tool-dubbed-threat-intelligence">Google has recently</a> integrated AI in its Threat Intelligence tool to enhance its cybersecurity posture. This tool aims to rapidly identify vulnerabilities, which could be crucial in preventing similar breaches.
The search giant also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41375089/google-urges-9th-circuit-to-halt-dangerous-epic-ruling-cites-substantial-new-security-risks">filed an appeal</a>&nbsp;against the Epic Games ruling, citing a higher risk of new security issues.
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>.
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<li><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">OpenAI Lays Out Its For-Profit Transition Plans, Says It Must Evolve To Advance Its AGI Mission</a></li>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Unsplash

Tech

Google Chrome Users Beware This Holiday Season: Cyber Security Firm's Browser Extension Hijacked By Attackers

Encode, a nonprofit organization, has joined forces with Elon Musk in a legal effort to prevent OpenAI <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">from transitioning into a for-profit entity</a>. This move comes as Encode files a request to submit an amicus brief in support of Musk&#8217;s injunction.
What Happened: Encode has aligned with Musk to oppose OpenAI&#8217;s transition to a for-profit entity. Encode has filed a request to submit an amicus brief supporting Musk&#8217;s injunction.
The brief, submitted to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, argues that OpenAI&#8217;s shift would compromise its mission to develop transformative technology safely. Encode claims that OpenAI&#8217;s conversion would prioritize financial returns over public safety and benefits.
See Also: <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">Microsoft Invested Nearly $14 Billion In OpenAI But Now It&#8217;s Reducing Its Dependence On The ChatGPT-Parent</a>
OpenAI, originally a nonprofit, has evolved into a hybrid structure with a for-profit arm. It plans to transition into a Delaware Public Benefit Corporation, which has raised concerns among stakeholders.
Musk, an early OpenAI contributor, filed a lawsuit in November to stop this change, accusing OpenAI of straying from its original mission.
OpenAI has dismissed Musk&#8217;s allegations as unfounded. Meanwhile, Meta Platforms Inc. has also expressed opposition, warning of significant impacts on Silicon Valley.
Encode&#8217;s brief highlights the potential risks of OpenAI&#8217;s restructuring, emphasizing the need for a safety-focused nonprofit to maintain control over advanced AI developments.
Why It Matters: The legal battle over OpenAI&#8217;s transition to a for-profit model has significant implications for the future of artificial intelligence.
OpenAI, backed by Microsoft Corp., outlined its plans to evolve into a <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">Delaware Public Benefit Corporation</a>, aiming to balance shareholder and stakeholder interests while maintaining its mission of ensuring artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all humanity.
The restructuring could result in a substantial financial gain for CEO Sam Altman, with a potential <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">$10.5 billion payday</a> as OpenAI seeks to attract more investors.
This move has raised concerns among stakeholders, including Musk, who filed for a court injunction in December to block the transition, citing a deviation from OpenAI&#8217;s original mission.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech"> following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Elon Musk's Legal Battle Against OpenAI's For-Profit Transition Joined By Non-Profit Encode

Chinese EV startup Li Auto&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LI#NASDAQ">LI</a>) founder and CEO Li Xiang on Friday reportedly backed the use of LiDAR technology in the company&#8217;s vehicles, saying it is necessary on the roads in China.
What Happened: "I believe that if Musk had ever driven on different highways in China deep in the night, he would have chosen to keep a LiDAR in the front as well," Li Xiang said at an AI talk event on Friday, as <a href="https://cnevpost.com/2024/12/27/tesla-would-use-lidar-if-musk-drove-on-china-highways-night/">reported</a> by CNEVPOST. The CEO was responding to a question on why Li Auto continues to use LiDAR when Tesla doesn&#8217;t.
"China is different from the US. If you regularly drive at night in China, you&#8217;ll see large trucks with broken taillights, and the large trucks with broken taillights maybe even parked right on the main road," the CEO said while adding that the company will continue to use the technology in future vehicle models. LiDAR, he said, helps ensure safety on the road. 
LiDAR, short for Light Detection and Ranging, is a remote sensing technology that uses laser light to measure distances and create detailed three-dimensional representations of surfaces and objects.
Why It Matters: Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk has previously criticized LiDAR, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41699028/tesla-investor-says-ev-giant-will-admit-it-needs-lidar-despite-elon-musk-calling-it-a-crutch">terming it a &#8220;crutch</a>&#8220;. None of the company's sold vehicles have lidars. In 2022, the company also removed ultrasonic sensors from its vehicles to rely solely on cameras.
"Did my best to warn people that LiDAR isn&#8217;t optimal for cars. Roads are designed for biological neural nets &amp; eyes, so digital neural nets &amp; cameras will work best," Musk said in Aug. 2023.
Chinese EV maker XPeng also dropped of use of LiDAR in its new P7+ sedan launched last month.
However, not all are in agreement. 
&#8220;…you really do need significantly more hardware than Tesla is putting in the vehicles to build a robotaxi that&#8217;s not just as safe but especially safer than a human,&#8221;&nbsp;Zoox&nbsp;co-founder&nbsp;Jesse Levinson&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41645383/elon-musk-slams-zoox-co-founder-over-fsd-criticism-your-company-would-be-dead-already-if-not-for-ama">opined in October</a> while adding that there is a need for sensor data despite advancements in AI to protect against camera malfunctions and ensure fully safe rides.
Alphabet Inc.'s&nbsp;autonomous ride-hail company&nbsp;Waymo&nbsp;also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41676465/tesla-can-make-cybercab-for-the-same-money-it-takes-waymo-to-install-lidar-sensors-on-its-robotaxi-s">continues to use LiDAR</a> in its robotaxis.&nbsp;
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>
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</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Li Auto CEO Defends Use Of LiDAR Despite Tesla CEO Elon Musk's Criticism: 'If Musk Had Ever Driven On Different Highways In China...'

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>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Global

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>.
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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>
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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>
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</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>.
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</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>.
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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

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>
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</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.

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."
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>
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;
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/62-years-old-with-1-mil-saved"><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></a>
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;
Read Next:
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<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>

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

Press Releases

Virtus Introduces Virtus KAR Mid-Cap ETF

VRTS

On Thursday, Equifax, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EFX#NYSE">EFX</a>) announced it partnered with Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) to help Latin American financial institutions, payment service providers, acquiring banks, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/n42351562/equifax-and-mastercard-join-forces-to-combat-payment-fraud-in-latin-america" rel="noreferrer noopener">and merchants tackle payment fraud</a>.



Mastercard business customers in Latin America will now have access to enhanced fraud management tools, including Mastercard Identity, Ethoca Alerts, and Ethoca Consumer Clarity, through Equifax's Kount Payment Fraud solution.



These integrated solutions safeguard the digital payments ecosystem with identity verification, fraud risk assessment, and chargeback prevention via order validation and alerting services.



Equifax's Kount Payment Fraud solution and Mastercard are expected to help businesses stop threats in real time to drive growth and protect revenue.



Chris Jones, President of Equifax Latin America, stated, "This strategic alignment will provide safer payment transactions and reduce chargebacks, enabling businesses of all sizes in&nbsp;Latin America&nbsp;to improve their bottom line."



"Adding to our existing capabilities, this collaboration is the next step in our journey to make the digital economy safe and more seamless for payment providers and merchants in the region," said&nbsp;Ana Lucia Magliano, Executive Vice President of services, Mastercard Latin America and the&nbsp;Caribbean.



Notably, according to a merchant-savvy report, Latin America, where merchants lose over 4.6% of e-commerce revenue to fraud, is set to see e-commerce nearly double to $160 billion by 2025.



Investors can gain exposure to the EFX via Virtus ETF Trust II Virtus KAR Mid-Cap ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMID#NYSE">KMID</a>) and Fidelity Disruptive Finance ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDFF#NASDAQ">FDFF</a>).



Price Action: EFX shares are up 0.22% to $261.35 premarket at the last check on Friday.



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/12/42321510/mastercard-settles-uk-antitrust-lawsuit-for-250-million" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mastercard Settles UK Antitrust Lawsuit For $250 Million</a></li>
</ul>

Latin America's $160 Billion E-Commerce Market Gets a Security Boost with Equifax and Mastercard Alliance

Several analysts expressed views on Ross Stores, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROST#NASDAQ">ROST</a>) third-quarter results reported on Thursday.



The company reported EPS&nbsp;of $1.48, exceeding the consensus of $1.40, while sales&nbsp;of $5.07 billion <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42123039/ross-stores-reports-third-quarter-earnings-updates-fourth-quarter-guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">missed the street view of&nbsp;$5.15 billion</a>.



Ross Stores expects fourth-quarter EPS of&nbsp;$1.57 &#8211; $1.64&nbsp;versus consensus of $1.67 and FY25 EPS&nbsp;of $6.10 &#8211; $6.17&nbsp;compared <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/calendars/guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener">to the street view of $6.14</a>.



BofA Securities analyst Lorraine Hutchinson reiterated a <a target="_blank" href="https://benzinga.com/quote/ROST/analyst-ratings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buy rating on the stock with a price target of $180.</a>



The analyst writes that the company&#8217;s value-focused offerings continue to appeal to stretched consumers.



The analyst says the fourth-quarter guidance accounts for a timing shift in packaway expenses (benefiting the third quarter by $0.03) and lapping last year&#8217;s extra week, which added $0.20 to EPS and 80 basis points to OM. Hutchinson adjusted the FY24 estimate to $6.14, up 1%.



Telsey Advisory Group analyst Dana Telsey reaffirmed the Market Perform rating with a price target of $175.



The analyst writes that Ross Stores&#8217; earnings beat reflected margin tailwinds, despite topline results falling short of expectations. While some sales weakness was attributed to unfavorable weather, product assortment issues also contributed, failing to fully capture consumer interest.



Looking ahead, the company remains aware of the challenging macroeconomic environment, particularly for its low-to-moderate income demographic, which faces pressure from rising essential costs, says the analyst.



The analyst writes that although FY24 EPS guidance was raised, fourth-quarter projections fell short, underscoring persistent challenges.



Ross&#8217;s commitment to value continues to attract deal-seeking customers, but macroeconomic uncertainty and the price sensitivity of its core demographic weigh, adds the analyst.



Guggenheim analyst Robert Drbul maintained a Buy rating with a $180 price target.



The analyst says that while macro uncertainties remain, he expects Ross to sustain positive sales momentum this holiday season, driven by strength in gifting, cosmetics, and accessories, and carry this into 2025.



Drbul sees EPS estimates of $6.15 in FY24 and $6.70 in FY25, which reflects a favorable environment for Ross, supported by ample branded goods supply, a strong value proposition, and ongoing sales optimism.



Following the third-quarter revenue miss, the analyst slightly reduced the FY24 revenue forecast, factoring in persistent inflation and its impact on discretionary spending.



Goldman Sachs analyst Brooke Roach writes that they remain positive on Ross Stores. Despite weather-related comp softness and execution challenges, ROST&#8217;s strategy of offering branded value merchandise at sharper prices is gaining traction.



While this pressures merchandise margins, operational efficiencies have offset the impact. Management acknowledges ongoing macro pressures on low- to middle-income consumers but expects sequential strength in the holiday quarter, driven by gifting and seasonal items, adds the analyst.



Roach writes that additional catalysts include the appointment of a new <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/10/b41586044/ross-stores-names-james-g-conroy-as-next-chief-executive-officer" rel="noreferrer noopener">CEO, effective February 2025</a>.



The analyst revised the FY24, FY25, and FY26 EPS estimates to $6.19, $6.54, and $7.14 (from $6.07, $6.47, and $7.06), respectively, to account for the quarterly results, timing adjustments, and slight margin forecast updates.



BMO Capital Markets analyst Simeon Siegel kept the Outperform rating and a price target of $168.



The analyst writes that ROST delivered a bottom-line beat, driven by stronger-than-expected gross margins, despite a topline miss attributed to unfavorable weather.



Management lowered its fourth-quarter EPS guidance but reiterated comp expectations, slightly raising the FY EPS high-end by $0.03, which the analyst views as conservative.



Investors can gain exposure to the stock via Virtus ETF Trust II Virtus KAR Mid-Cap ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMID#NYSE">KMID</a>) and VanEck Retail ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTH#NASDAQ">RTH</a>).



Price Action: ROST shares are up 2.41% at $146.41 at the last check Friday.



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42139806" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EchoStar Shares Sink As DirecTV Terminates Acquisition Agreement</a></li>
</ul>

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