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Bill Ackman once sought insights from Berkshire Hathaway's chairman Warren Buffett about the investment appeal of the Salomon Brothers.
What Happened: At the 1994 Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, Ackman, then a young hedge fund manager, raised a critical question about Salomon Brothers.
He directed his question to Buffett, asking, "What is the appeal of the business to you, given its leverage of 30-to-1 and relatively modest returns on equity?"
Buffett responded thoughtfully, acknowledging the high leverage involved but underscoring the importance of leadership in managing such risks.
The Oracle of Omaha praised the efforts of Salomon&#8217;s leaders, including Deryck Maughan, Bob Denham, and John McFarlane, who navigated the company through challenging times without prior discussions on compensation or guarantees.
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&#8220;The test will be whether they control the business in a way that leverage doesn't prove dangerous,&#8221; Buffett stated, noting that businesses using significant leverage should expect higher returns on equity, given the inherent risk, but that successful management of that risk was paramount.
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Why It Matters: Salomon Brothers, founded in 1910, was a major player on Wall Street, renowned for its fixed-income trading.
In 1987, the bond trading firm revealed a $70 million loss from debt related to its junk bond trading activities. This set off a chain of events that contributed to the 1987 market crash, although other factors also played a role in the market&#8217;s downturn.
Salomon traders were caught submitting fraudulent bids for Treasury bonds in violation of trading regulations.
Just before the scandal, Buffett had invested $700 million in Salomon Brothers. The controversy resulted in a loss of one-third of his investment.
To restore order during the turmoil, Buffett took control of the company for nine months, methodically removing those involved in the scandal.
By the time the firm was stabilized, it had been sold to&nbsp;Travelers Companies Inc.&nbsp;Buffett had&nbsp;walked away with a substantial profit, as his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/16/09/8483241/warren-buffett-weathered-the-salomon-brothers-scandal-whats-that-mean-for-wells-f">investment had more than doubled</a>.
Travelers Group merged Salomon Brothers with Smith Barney, creating Salomon Smith Barney, which later became part of Citigroup following the 1998 merger between Travelers and Citicorp.
Over time, Citigroup integrated and eventually dismantled the Salomon Smith Barney brand. By the mid-2000s, Salomon Brothers ceased to exist as a standalone entity.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photos courtesy: Wikimedia and Shutterstock

News

Tech

Bill Ackman Once Asked A $700 Million Question To Warren Buffett On Leverage. The Oracle Of Omaha's Response Shows Where He Places Trust When He Invests In A Company

On Friday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Eli Lilly and Co.&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) weight loss drug Zepbound for treating sleep apnea
What Happened: The FDA&#8217;s decision makes Zepbound the first approved drug treatment for patients with obesity and moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA.
&#8220;Too often, OSA is brushed off as &#8216;just snoring,'&#8221; said Julie Flygare, CEO of Project Sleep, in Eli Lilly&#8217;s press release. The condition affects an estimated 80 million Americans, with 20 million experiencing moderate-to-severe forms.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42291702/obesity-drug-wars-heat-up-amgen-challenges-eli-lilly-novos-dominance">Weight Loss Drug Wars Heat Up: Amgen Challenges Eli Lilly, Novo&#8217;s Dominance</a>
In a separate release, the FDA underscored that Zepbound should be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity for optimal results.
The approval could significantly impact insurance coverage for Zepbound, potentially including Medicare, which currently restricts coverage for obesity drugs unless approved for additional health benefits, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/12/20/fda-approves-eli-lillys-weight-loss-drug-zepbound-for-sleep-apnea.html">noted</a> CNBC.
This development also gives Eli Lilly an edge over competitor Novo Nordisk (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), whose Wegovy isn&#8217;t approved for sleep apnea treatment.
Why It Matters: Zepbound's effectiveness was demonstrated in clinical trials. Results showed that nearly half of patients treated with the highest dose experienced disease resolution, the report noted.
This was defined by a significant reduction in their apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), a key metric in diagnosing OSA.
The approval also comes as Eli Lilly continues to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42370795/investments-in-eli-lillys-production-capabilities-reaches-23-billion-with-additional-3-billion-expansion-at-us-facility">expand its manufacturing capabilities</a>, including a $3 billion investment in Kenosha County, Wisconsin in December, to meet the growing demand for its diabetes and obesity medicines.
In October, Eli Lilly reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/10/41622207/eli-lilly-q3-earnings-mounjaro-sales-more-than-double-takes-2-98-billion-hit-to-profit-cuts-annua">third-quarter revenue</a> of $11.44 billion, a 20% increase year-over-year, but missed expectations of $12.10 billion. Zepbound generated $1.26 billion.
Price Action: As per <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, LLY shares increased by 1.35% to $767.76 on Friday. So far this year, LLY has risen by 29.65%.
The latest ratings from B of A Securities, Wolfe Research, and Deutsche Bank set an average price target of $1,004, indicating a potential upside of 30.77%.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LLY/analyst-ratings"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/21033911/Screenshot-2024-12-21-at-2.09.01%E2%80%AFPM-1024x374.png" alt="" class="wp-image-702686" /></a></figure>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Health Care

Markets

Eli Lilly's Zepbound Receives FDA Approval For Obesity-Linked Sleep Apnea Drug

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Elon Musk has been accused by Rosa DeLauro of pressuring Republicans to abandon key U.S.-China investment restrictions to safeguard the EV giant's business interests in China.
What Happened: In a letter on Friday, DeLauro, the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, stated that Musk used his influence to have Republicans scrap provisions aimed at regulating U.S. investments in China, reported Reuters.
She pointed to Musk's "extensive investments in China in key sectors" and alleged ties to Chinese Communist Party or CCP leadership.
The controversy centers on Tesla's Shanghai gigafactory, which produces about 50% of Tesla's global automobile output.
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DeLauro argued that Musk's actions jeopardized critical legislation to safeguard U.S. supply chains and national security, accusing him of &#8221; bullying Republicans into going back on their words."
Musk, in turn, criticized DeLauro on X, formerly Twitter, calling for her expulsion from Congress.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">This awful creature needs to be expelled from Congress! Ugh …
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1870233561753633123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Why It Matters: Tesla has seen robust sales in China, bolstered by strong demand for its Model Y and Model 3 vehicles. In November, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42438591/teslas-china-sales-recover-model-y-accounts-for-over-60-of-november-sales">Tesla's retail sales in China</a> reached 73,490 units, showing a significant recovery from earlier challenges in 2024.
The EV giant also faces stiff competition from local players like BYD Co., which leads the market, but Tesla's steady increase in weekly insurance registrations—21,900 units in early December—<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42284511/tesla-china-sees-robust-demand-in-q4-with-registrations-up-14-2-yoy-so-far-expert-says-ev-giant-on-track-for-best-quarter-ever">signals growing momentum</a>.
Tesla reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41501607/tesla-q3-earnings-highlights-eps-beat-revenue-miss-shares-climb-on-2025-timeline-for-lower-cost-evs">third-quarter revenue</a> of $25.18 billion marking an 8% year-over-year growth. While the company missed Wall Street estimates, automotive revenue reached $20 billion, up 2% year-over-year.
DeLauro's accusations highlight broader concerns about the risks of U.S. investments in Chinese technology sectors. October rules finalized by the Treasury Department aim to limit such investments in critical areas like artificial intelligence to protect national security.
However, the removal of provisions for outbound investment screening could leave gaps in safeguarding U.S. interests.
Price Action: Tesla&#8217;s stock declined by 3.46% on Friday, ending the session at $421.06. Despite this drop, the company's shares have surged 69.5% since the start of the year, significantly outpacing the Nasdaq 100 index, which has gained 28.68% over the same period, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com/">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
The latest ratings from Baird, Mizuho, and Goldman Sachs have established an average price target of $446.67, suggesting an upside potential of 5.53%.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Politics

TSLA

Elon Musk Accused Of Bullying Republicans To Scrap US-China Investment Safeguards To Protect Tesla's Interests

Now that Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco are engaged – just 18 months after they started dating – they'll have to decide which of the bride's mansions they'll call home.
In a post captioned "Forever begins now," the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/09/40758541/selena-gomez-enters-billionaire-club-thanks-to-rare-beautys-triumph">32-year-old singer</a> shared her happy news on Instagram, posting photos showing her embracing her fiance while showing off her diamond ring, according to The New York Post.
Gomez and Blanco, a renowned record producer, began dating in 2023 after years of collaborating on various music projects. Their partnership eventually evolved into a romantic relationship.
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Since the start of their relationship, Gomez, a former Disney star, has reached new heights professionally. This fall, she joined the exclusive billionaire club, largely thanks to the success of her <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/04/38113933/serena-williams-launches-a-new-company-that-shes-been-working-on-for-6-years">Rare Beauty</a> brand, now valued at $2 billion.
Gomez continues to dominate on social media, becoming the most-followed woman on Instagram with 423 million followers.
With their engagement now official, the couple must decide which of their mansions will serve as their marital home.
Read on to see their options.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Encino</h2>
In 2020, Gomez purchased a Southern California property once owned by fellow musician Tom Petty for $4.9 million.
The 9,000-square-foot Encino estate, custom-built in 1989, boasts unique features that likely appealed to Gomez. However, Petty moved out after his divorce in 1996. Traces of his legacy remain, including a recording studio and sunken performance space – perfect touches for a singer like Gomez.
The five-bedroom mansion offers soaring ceilings and a gourmet kitchen, while its lower level includes a wine cellar, gym, massage room, creative workspace, additional kitchen, vocal booth, den and a guest suite.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Woodland Hills</h2>
Another potential home for the newly engaged couple is a charming property Gomez purchased in 2017 for $1.8 million.
Built in 1949, the private, gated estate sits on half an acre and spans 3,500 square feet, featuring four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The home boasts hardwood floors, a wood-burning fireplace in the living room and abundant natural light.
The modern kitchen includes Wolf appliances and quartz countertops, while the family room features a home theater, wood-beamed ceilings and built-ins. The primary suite offers a spacious walk-in closet, a cozy fireplace and a spa-like bathroom with a rainfall shower and jetted tub.
The outdoor amenities are just as impressive, with a pool, fire pit and outdoor kitchen.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New York City</h2>
Blanco, a songwriter and producer known for collaborating with stars like Katy Perry, Justin Bieber and Ed Sheeran, has been trying to sell his New York City apartment. Blanco, whose real name is Benjamin Joseph Levin, purchased the three-bedroom Chelsea loft in 2011 for $3.4 million.
Initially listed for nearly $4 million in May, the property has seen a price reduction to $3.75 million after failing to attract buyers. The fully renovated condo is in a coveted corner location and has 11-foot ceilings and southeast-facing windows that flood the space with light.
The compact kitchen with a breakfast bar opens seamlessly to the main living area. The building&#8217;s residents enjoy an array of amenities, including 24/7 door attendants, concierge services, a gym, a roof deck and a children's playroom.
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Real Estate

Selena Gomez And Benny Blanco To Tie The Knot, But Which Mansion Will Be Home Sweet Home?

Regarding selling luxury cars, brands like Ferrari (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RACE#NYSE">RACE</a>), Rolls-Royce and Maserati use strategies that are as extravagant as their vehicles. These automakers know how to make their cars irresistible – and sometimes even make their customers feel like they're getting a deal when doing the company's work for them.
Take Ferrari, for instance. A prominent marketing expert, Rory Sutherland, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcjAFJu39Ok">pointed out</a> how the brand has devised a smart way to shift delivery costs onto its customers while framing it as an exclusive experience. The company can deliver a Ferrari to your local dealership for free if you buy it. But for around £500 ($630), you can opt for a &#8220;factory tour&#8221; in Maranello, Italy, where you pick up your car and drive it home at your own cost.&nbsp;
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Customers willingly pay to collect their cars because the experience is marketed as a unique privilege. It looks like a brilliant psychological play that makes customers feel special while cutting Ferrari's costs.
Meanwhile, according to Sutherland, Rolls-Royce and Maserati took a different approach to make their luxury cars seem like impulse buys. Instead of showcasing their vehicles at traditional car shows – where their high price tags stand out – they moved to yacht and private jet shows. The logic? If you've spent all day looking at multimillion-dollar yachts and jets, a $250,000 car suddenly feels like a much smaller expense – an impulse buy.
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Ferrari is also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/07/39935966/ferrari-revs-up-crypto-payments-in-europe-expanding-on-us-success">making bold moves into cryptocurrency payments</a>. After successfully rolling out crypto payments in the U.S., the brand expanded the option to Europe in July. Partnering with BitPay, Ferrari now accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum and USD Coin for its cars, instantly converting the payments to traditional currency. According to the company&#8217;s representative, this was done in response to consumer demand and to suit the tastes of their affluent, tech-savvy audience. By the end of 2024, Ferrari plans to offer crypto payments globally where legally permitted.
Ferrari isn't stopping there. The brand is gearing up to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38984035/ferrari-aims-to-challenge-tesla-with-launch-of-electric-supercar-in-2025">launch its first electric supercar</a> in the fourth quarter of 2025. Ferrari ensures its EVs maintain the brand&#8217;s signature appeal with a new factory in Maranello dedicated to hybrid and electric vehicles and a state-of-the-art lithium battery research lab.
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CEO Benedetto Vigna is reinventing the sound of electric motors to preserve the classic sensory experience of driving a Ferrari. Ferrari is placing a big bet on strong consumer interest across age groups to compete with market leaders like Tesla.
Even as Ferrari accelerates into the future, its financial performance remains strong. The automaker reported an 11% year-over-year sales growth in Q1 2024, bringing in $1.72 billion in revenue. Shipments held steady at 3,560 units and Ferrari is on track for fiscal 2024 net revenues exceeding €6.4 billion.
Whether paying to pick up your car, splurging on a $250,000 vehicle after looking at luxury yachts or buying a Ferrari with Bitcoin, one thing stands out: luxury car brands know how to keep people coming back. They use smart strategies, cool technology and new financial trends to stay ahead in the world of high-end cars.
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RACE

Ferrari Devised A Clever Way To Play Customers, But Rolls-Royce And Maserati Took A Different Route – 'A $250,000 Car Is An Impulse Buy'

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New On The Block</h2>
Honeywell (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HON#NASDAQ">HON</a>) is back at it again with big plans and boardroom brainstorms. This time, the Charlotte, North Carolina-based company is considering sending its aerospace business <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/asset-sales/24/12/42505835/honeywell-advances-strategic-review-explores-aerospace-business-separation">off to fly solo</a>. Recently, Honeywell unveiled plans to spin off its Advanced Materials business into a standalone public company by late 2025 or early 2026. Additionally, the company is selling its Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) business to Protective Industrial Products for $<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42140202/honeywell-to-exit-ppe-business-with-1325-billion-sale-plans-advanced-materials-spinoff">1.325 billion in cash</a>.
Textron Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXT#NYSE">TXT</a>) has decided it's time to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/guidance/24/12/42558931/textron-hits-the-brakes-on-powersports-strategic-shift-amid-soft-demand">hit the brakes on</a> its Powersports product line, part of the Industrial segment&#8217;s Textron Specialized Vehicles business. The segment manufactures snowmobiles and off-road vehicles under the Arctic Cat label. Deere &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DE#NYSE">DE</a>) is rumored to be interested in acquiring it. Textron expects to wrap up its restructuring in the first half of the new year.
DLocal, a Latin American payments provider with a market value of about $3.6 billion, is on the auction block. The Montevideo, Uruguay-based company hired Morgan Stanley to gauge takeover offers from bidders. Private equity firm General Atlantic is DLocal&#8217;s largest shareholder.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Updates From The Block</h2>
The European Commission <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/12/42621868/nvidia-secures-eu-approval-for-runai-deal-us-probes-china-export-breach">granted unconditional approval</a> for Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) to acquire Run:ai Labs Ltd, an Israel-based provider of GPU orchestration software. The decision under the EU Merger Regulation concluded the acquisition would not raise competition concerns within the European Economic Area. Nvidia aims to integrate Run: ai&#8217;s software into its ecosystem. Run:ai specializes in software that helps organizations optimize and manage their artificial intelligence compute workloads across various environments, including on-premises and cloud platforms.
Soho House's billionaire chairman Ron Burkle wants to whisk the private members' club away from the U.S. stock market. Burkle and his squad of investors have thrown down a flashy <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42597812/soho-house-jumps-over-50-on-receiving-acquisition-offer-with-83-premium">$1.8 billion buyout bid</a>, offering $9 per share—a snazzy 83% premium to the stock&#8217;s closing price on Wednesday, Dec. 18. This isn't Soho House's first flirtation with delisting. Just a few months ago, it turned down a mysterious suitor's offer.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Off The Block</h2>
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) and Woodside Energy Group Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WDS#NYSE">WDS</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/contracts/24/12/42584936/chevron-secures-larger-north-west-shelf-stake-in-asset-swap-400m-payment-to-woodside">finalized an asset swap deal</a> on Wednesday. As part of the agreement, Woodside will transfer its 13% non-operated interest in the Wheatstone Project and its 65% operated interest in the Julimar-Brunello Project in Western Australia. In return, Woodside will acquire Chevron&#8217;s 16.67% stakes in the North West Shelf Project and the NWS Oil Project, along with a 20% interest in the Angel Carbon Capture and Storage Project. Additionally, Chevron will make a cash payment to Woodside of up to $400 million. This includes a $300 million payment at completion, and contingency payments of up to $100 million, tied to the handover of the Julimar Phase 3 Project and subsequent production performance.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bankruptcy Block</h2>
Furnishing and retailer Big Lots Inc.&#8216;s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in September and impending store closures could benefit rival Ollie&#8217;s Bargain Outlet Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OLLI#NASDAQ">OLLI</a>), JPMorgan analyst Matthew R. Boss says. On Sept. 9, Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 and announced a subsequent sale of its assets to Nexus Capital Management LP. The company&#8217;s stock was subsequently delisted from the New York Stock Exchange. Its third-quarter financial report revealed a company struggling with declining sales, eroding margins and a continual bleeding of cash. On Dec. 19, the Columbus, Ohio-based company said its sale to Nexus Capital fell through, noting it &#8220;continues to work toward completing an alternative going concern transaction with Nexus or another party.&#8221; CEO Bruce Thorn announced a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42624759/big-lots-holds-liquidation-sales-analyst-pegs-competitor-as-major-beneficiary-market-share-capture-opportunity">going-out-of-business sale</a>.
FTX announced that its<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42151412/bankrupt-crypto-exchange-ftx-to-commence-payments-to-customers-creditors-in-early-2025"> Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization plan</a> will become effective on Jan. 3, 2025. Customer and creditor distributions will be facilitated through partnerships with cryptocurrency platforms Kraken and BitGo. The first round of distributions is expected to occur within 60 days of the plan's effective date. The initial distribution will cover holders of allowed claims in the Convenience Classes, while timelines for other claim classes will be announced later.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Notes From The Block</h2>
Benzinga recently interviewed Tony Roma&#8217;s CEO Mohaimina (Mina) Haque on a variety of topics, including the restaurant chain&#8217;s capital raising initiatives:
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">BZ: What's the global stage look like?</h3>
There's a lot of interest globally. We are in Dubai and Berlin as well as Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Perth, Australia. There is a lot of brand awareness. Stateside, as Gen Z and millennials were growing up, there was a decrease in unit size. So, we are working on building that bridge between those who are nostalgic for Tony Roma's and those who haven't experienced it yet. There are challenges, including the supply chain and ensuring that franchise partners uphold our intellectual property.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">BZ: Is M&amp;A still on the cards?</h3>
It is a possibility. We have parties interested in helping us to expand our global and national footprint. So, it's still in the cards, with either a venture capital or private equity firm. For anyone interested and who wants to see more explosive growth for the company, we are looking for partners capable of heavy capital infusion.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">BZ: What size investment do you think would you go to ballpark it?</h3>
If I have to ballpark it, maybe somewhere between $10 million and $20 million
For the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/12/42553401/comfort-food-comeback-how-mina-haque-plans-to-make-tony-romas-sizzle-again">full Q&amp;A, click here</a>.
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Rumors

Asset Sales

Exclusives

NVDA

OLLI

Deal Dispatch: Honeywell, Textron And Soho House Are Making M&A Moves

House conservatives are pressuring Speaker Mike Johnson after a rocky week of negotiations and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42624528/government-shutdown-threat-stocks-wobble-holiday-travel-and-paychecks-could-face-delays-what-you-need-to-know" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infighting over a government spending bill</a>.
Johnson, who narrowly avoided a government shutdown, now faces intense scrutiny from his party with a speakership vote looming in two weeks, <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/12/20/johnson-unsteady-speakership-time-00195784" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> Politico.
The Louisiana Republican is caught between President-elect Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and the right wing of his party, and many in his conference are not satisfied with his leadership.
A few members have already vowed to oppose him, and others are openly questioning his ability to lead, especially after the contentious spending battle.
The conflict over the spending bill put Johnson at odds with several key figures, including Trump, who publicly criticized the funding plan before Johnson switched strategies.
Critics, including members of the Freedom Caucus, expressed frustration over the lack of communication and poor handling of the bill. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), a moderate, described the leadership&#8217;s actions as &#8220;completely unacceptable&#8221; and said there was &#8220;zero communication&#8221; between the leadership and members, Politico adds.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42635098/senate-avoids-shutdown-with-last-minute-deal-amid-trumps-debt-ceiling-demands" rel="noreferrer noopener">Senate Avoids Shutdown With Last-Minute Deal Amid Trump&#8217;s Debt Ceiling Demands</a>
Others, like Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), have vowed to wait until January 3 to announce how they will vote on Johnson's speakership, reflecting the uncertainty about his future in the role.
Johnson did manage to get the spending bill passed with a relatively small number of defections, but the damage to his credibility may be long-lasting.
The incident has become a test of his ability to manage the fractious Republican conference, especially as the party looks to push ambitious legislation on the border and energy early in the new Congress, the report reads.
For many Republicans, Johnson's handling of this crisis will set the tone for how he leads in the future.
Some members believe Johnson still has a chance to rebuild his support, though the challenge remains formidable. If the situation doesn't improve, Johnson may face a leadership challenge, with names like Jim Jordan and Tom Emmer being floated as potential replacements.
Despite the turmoil, Johnson does have some allies, particularly within the House Freedom Caucus, who appreciate his fight to implement the Trump agenda.
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Equities

General

Johnson Averts Shutdown But Faces Growing Pressure From Right

Peter Buffett, son of billionaire investor&nbsp;Warren Buffett, made a life-changing decision 47 years ago when he traded his inheritance to &#8220;buy time." Although he missed out on what would have been hundreds of millions of dollars in profit, he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/warren-buffett">stands by his decision</a>.
Finding His Path:&nbsp;At 19, Buffett received a portion of the proceeds from the sale of his grandfather's farm, which his father invested in Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/brk-a#NYSE">BRK-A</a>) (NYSE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/brk-b#NYSE">BRK-B</a>), amounting to $90,000, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/05/07/warren-buffett-son-doesnt-regret-spending-berkshire-stock-he-got-at-19-worth-200-million-now.html?utm_campaign=trueanthem&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=facebook&amp;fbclid=IwAR2ltNtAQUUEhAViImalKNS2NdjCrlgyZxhj00Z4cr2TZQJm1mqBy-thwSY">CNBC</a>. His father made it clear that this was all the financial support he would receive for personal use. Despite knowing it was his entire inheritance, Peter sold his Berkshire stock to fund his passion for music.
Buffett dropped out of Stanford University, purchased a modest studio apartment in San Francisco, and invested in upgrading his recording equipment. He dedicated his time to honing his piano and music production skills.
His big break came unexpectedly when a neighbor asked him about his profession, setting him on the path to a successful career in music.
He told the neighbor that he was a "struggling composer" and the neighbor offered to introduce him to his son-in-law who was an animator looking for ad tunes for a new cable station — it turned out to be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mtv">MTV</a>.&nbsp;
Buffett is now 66 years of age and has released around 15&nbsp;studio albums over his successful career.&nbsp;
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42558080/warren-buffett-says-the-poorest-2-of-earners-live-better-than-john-d-rockefeller-richest-man-in-the-world-people-have-more-money-now">Warren Buffett Says The Poorest 2% Of Earners Live Better Than John D. Rockefeller – Richest Man In The World: &#8216;People Have More Money Now&#8217;</a>
The Path Not Taken:&nbsp;If the son of the legendary investor would have stayed in college and held onto his $90,000&nbsp;investment in Berkshire Hathaway, it would be worth over $400 million today.&nbsp;
"But I didn&#8217;t make that choice and I don&#8217;t regret it for a second.&nbsp;I used my nest egg to buy something infinitely more valuable than money: I used it to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/04/31687018/couple-uses-huge-airbnb-profits-to-buy-time-they-only-spend-1-hour-working-per-week">buy time</a>," Buffett said.&nbsp;
That's a decision that his father would be proud of, he noted. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/billionaires">billionaire</a>&nbsp;taught his son that work isn't about making as much money as possible, instead it's about doing something that you love to do.
Buffett acknowledged that the money was a privilege, calling it a gift that he had not earned.
&#8220;Without those hundreds of unpaid hours spent fiddling with my recording gear, I would not have found my sound or approach," Buffett said.&nbsp;
The musician used the money to buy time to pursue something that he enjoys waking up and doing&nbsp;each day, which is exactly what his father tells young people to do. The billionaire has previously recommended that people pursue careers they would want even if money was not part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/03/31592697/if-you-want-to-move-forward-and-make-better-decisions-you-need-to-remember-these-3-words">decision-making process</a>.&nbsp;
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This story is part of a new series of features on the subject of success,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/benzinga-inspire">Benzinga Inspire</a>.&nbsp;Some elements of this story were previously reported by Benzinga and it has been updated.
Photo: Shutterstock

Success Stories

Warren Buffett's Son's $90K Inheritance Would Be Worth More Than $400 Million Today, But He Sold His Berkshire Stock 47 Years Ago To Buy Something 'Infinitely More Valuable'

Google (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) has reduced its top management roles by 10% as part of a multi-year effort to streamline operations <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/09/34392201/google-salary-leak-reveals-mind-blowing-earnings-top-engineers-make">and boost efficiency</a>.
What Happened: On Wednesday, CEO Sundar Pichai revealed during an all-hands meeting that the move reflects Google&#8217;s broader push to simplify its structure and adapt to a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
According to employees who attended the meeting, Pichai explained that the efficiency drive included changes to managerial, director, and vice president roles. 
Some positions were restructured to nonmanagerial roles, while others were eliminated entirely. The changes align with Pichai's 2022 statement that he wanted the company to become "20% more efficient," a goal that resulted in 12,000 layoffs in January of this year. 
According to the report <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/google-ceo-company-cut-manager-vp-roles-2024-12">by</a> Business Insider, Google&#8217;s pursuit of efficiency comes as competition intensifies in the artificial intelligence space, with rivals like OpenAI launching products that challenge Google's dominance in search.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42378596/openais-chatgpt-makes-headway-in-search-threatening-googles-reign">OpenAI&#8217;s ChatGPT Makes Headway In Search, Threatening Google&#8217;s Reign</a>
In response, Google has infused generative AI into its core services and unveiled innovations such as a new AI video generator and its Gemini AI models, including a "reasoning" model designed to showcase its thought process.
During the meeting, Pichai also addressed Google's cultural identity, discussing the term &#8220;Googleyness,&#8221; which he said needed an update to reflect the company&#8217;s modern values and direction. 
The term has long been associated with Google's work culture, and its evolution signals the company's commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing industry.
As Google continues its efficiency drive and AI innovation efforts, it remains a key player in shaping the future of technology while adapting its structure and culture for the challenges ahead.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

GOOGL

Google Announces Major Layoffs As Pichai Stresses Efficiency

Peter Lynch, a renowned investor and former fund manager of the Magellan Fund at Fidelity Investments, achieved a legendary compound annual return of 29% during the 1980s. 
What Happened: In a 1997 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myu4Nv0pt0U">speech</a>, Lynch shared key principles from his 25-year career that guided his success. He emphasized that these principles were timeless, applicable then, now, and for decades to come. Below are three of his essential investing lessons.
Lynch advises against bias towards specific stocks or industries. He emphasizes that great investment opportunities can be found in unexpected places, including companies facing bankruptcy or skepticism. 
&#8220;There are great stocks everywhere, even those in bankruptcy or close to it. Often times great investments are the ones where everyone else will think you are crazy,&#8221; Lynch said during his speech. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42499608/investment-guru-peter-lynch-if-you-cant-explain-to-an-11-year-old-in-2-minutes-or-less-why-you-own-t">Investment Guru Peter Lynch: &#8216;If You Can&#8217;t Explain To An 11-Year-Old In 2 Minutes Or Less Why You Own The Stock, You Shouldn&#8217;t Own It&#8217;</a>
Lynch recommends documenting the reasons for purchasing a stock. If those reasons no longer apply due to changes in the company's story, it may be time to sell. &#8220;When the story changes, the investment thesis changes,&#8221; he asserts.
A critical point Lynch underscores is that a stock dropping significantly doesn't mean it won't fall further. &#8220;Stocks can always go lower,&#8221; he warns, citing the example of Polaroid, which plummeted from $140 to $18 over nine months. He also cautions against assuming stocks will rebound solely because they've declined.
&#8220;Stocks also don't have to bounce back just because they went down,&#8221; he added. 
Why It Matters: These principles highlight Lynch's disciplined and thoughtful approach to investing, which continues to inspire investors today.
Lynch's principles offer timeless guidance for investors at all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. His focus on deeply understanding the business, prioritizing individual stock analysis, and exercising patience mirrors the strategies of legendary investors like Warren Buffett.
These insights serve as a powerful reminder that true success in investing comes not from chasing short-term gains but from making well-informed decisions and committing to a long-term
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Stock Split

Investment Guru Peter Lynch: 'Often Great Investments Are The Ones Where Everyone Else Will Think You Are Crazy'

Mary Trump, niece of President-elect Donald Trump and one of his most vocal critics, has issued a stark warning about what to expect from her uncle's second administration. 
What Happened: Speaking on the podcast by The Daily Beast, Mary Trump referred to the upcoming presidency as a "regime" and described it as more dangerous than his first term.
During <a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/why-trumps-niece-is-even-more-afraid-for-his-second-term/">the</a> interview, Mary Trump argued that the incoming administration, which she described as a "lame duck," will see Donald Trump "unleashed" because he will not face the pressures of reelection.
"He's not running for reelection. He doesn't have to play any games. He doesn't have to stay within the lines," she said, emphasizing that the lack of accountability could lead to more extreme policies and actions.
She said, &#8220;Trump&#8217;s presidency already is more dangerous than the first one as we see by his appointments and his nominations to key positions in the executive branch and then Cabinet positions."
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She pointed to Trump's controversial Cabinet and executive branch nominations as evidence of the potential dangers. 
These include Pete Hegseth, a Fox News personality tapped for the Pentagon, and anti-vaccine advocate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. 
Mary Trump characterized these appointments as alarming signs of the administration's direction.
"The most depressing thing," she said, "is that everybody in corporate media, everybody in the Republican Party, and a significant percentage of Donald's voters knew it was going to be more dangerous, and yet, here we are."
Mary Trump's comments underscore concerns among critics about the implications of Donald Trump's second term, which they believe could dramatically reshape key aspects of governance and policy.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Wikimedia Commons

Mary Trump's Warning: Donald Trump's Second Term 'Already Is More Dangerous Than the First'

As <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41857278/iranian-plot-against-trump-unveiled-as-tensions-with-us-grow">political tensions</a> rise in the United States, a unique opportunity is catching the attention of election-weary travelers. Villa Vie Residences, a Florida-based cruise company, offers a multiyear global adventure aboard its luxury vessel, the Villa Vie Odyssey. Dubbed the "Skip Forward" program in a press release from Villa Vie, the cruise is part of a 15-year worldwide journey that allows travelers to hop on or off at various ports, providing a way to "escape from reality."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Floating Escape</h2>
Villa Vie's "Skip Forward" program offers a four-year continuous voyage to over 425 ports in 140 countries across all seven continents. Villa Vie's website lists prices starting at $159,999 per person for a four-year double-occupancy cabin, with options for shorter durations. Travelers seeking more affordable arrangements can book smaller segments of the "hop on hop off" cruise – a few months out of the planned itinerary – for anywhere from $8,344 and up. Alternatively, the premium double-occupancy ocean-view cabins total $350,000 for the full four-year term.
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Villa Vie's website also lists that the program includes accommodations, meals, housekeeping, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41061483/spacexs-starlink-now-connects-4m-customers-with-more-than-6k-operational-satellites-adds-a-million-u">high-speed Starlink internet</a> and even limited alcoholic beverages during dinner. Guests also enjoy wellness classes, fitness facilities and opportunities to invite friends or family to join for $129 per day. Villa Vie touts the cruise as an "all-inclusive" lifestyle, eliminating concerns about hidden fees or additional taxes.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Highlights of the Itinerary</h2>
The Odyssey's route promises an immersive exploration of global wonders. Currently sailing through the Caribbean, the ship will conclude the year in Guayaquil, Ecuador, before embarking on a four-month South American tour. Highlights include transits through the Panama Canal, a visit to Rio de Janeiro's Carnival and an eight-day journey along the Amazon River. Travelers will also experience iconic landmarks such as the Chilean Fjords and a sail-by of Antarctica.
According to Mikael Petterson, CEO of Villa Vie Residences, the program was conceived before the recent <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/42444997/biden-harris-and-trump-campaigns-responsible-for-more-than-6-billion-ad-impressions-combined-on-meta">U.S. presidential election</a>. "Quite frankly, we don't have a political view one way or the other," Petterson told Newsweek. "We just wanted to give people who feel threatened a way to get out."
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Rising Trend in Extended Travel</h2>
Villa Vie's offer is part of a broader trend among travel companies responding to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/42023971/after-the-election-americans-are-exploring-life-abroad-but-what-are-the-financial-costs">heightened interest in leaving the U.S.</a> following the recent election. Google searches for phrases like "how to move" and "work visa" surged by more than 500% after Election Day, reminiscent of similar spikes after the 2016 election. While few Americans make permanent moves abroad – data from CNN shows that only about 2,000 applied for residency in Canada after the 2016 election – the growing availability of digital nomad visas and extended travel options offers alternative avenues for long-term escapes.
The "Skip Forward" program aligns with these trends, positioning itself as a cost-effective alternative to urban living. According to The Street, the annual cost of the cruise is comparable to or less than renting in cities like New York or Los Angeles.&nbsp;
"Your villa is your bedroom and the ship is your home," said Anne Alms, Villa Vie's Head of Sales, in Villa Vie's press release. "She'll take you across the globe to endless horizons."
Trending: It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $70 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Flexibility and Adventure</h2>
Villa Vie's emphasis on flexibility allows travelers to customize their experience. Whether booking a one-year "Escape from Reality" or committing to the full four-year "Skip Forward," passengers can join or leave the cruise at various ports. The company highlights this adaptability as a key feature of its offering, making it a compelling option for those seeking adventure and comfort.
As the Villa Vie Odyssey continues its 15-year global journey, its promise of cultural immersion and hassle-free living appeals to those eager to explore the world or leave behind the political stresses of home. Prospective adventurers can contact Villa Vie Residences or visit their website to book a consultation.
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Startups

'Skip Forward': Cruise Company Markets $159K 4-Year World Tour To Election-Weary Travelers

The alleged murderer of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) CEO Brian Thompson has been transferred to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York. 
What Happened: The detention facility is also home to high-profile inmates, including convicted crypto fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried, who is serving a 25-year sentence for his role in the collapse of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange.
Luigi Mangione, 26, is accused of planning and executing the fatal shooting of Thompson on December 4 in New York City. The public murder shocked the city and sparked a days-long manhunt before Mangione was arrested at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Prosecutors allege Mangione planned the attack for months, motivated by his disdain for the U.S. healthcare system. 
According to the report <a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-killing-luigi-mangione-4cc18cfa71b96aaa39b321f60145d2f0">by</a> the Associated Press, Mangione now shares the Metropolitan Detention Center with Bankman-Fried, whose fraudulent management of FTX led to the crypto platform's bankruptcy in November 2022, wiping out billions of dollars.
The jail has also recently housed music producer Sean "Diddy" Combs, who faces racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Combs reportedly shared space with Bankman-Fried and used one of the disgraced crypto mogul's attorneys, according to court filings.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42512814/luigi-mangione-lived-a-privileged-life-of-real-estate-wealth-before-arrest-in-ceo-case">Luigi Mangione Lived a Privileged Life Of Real Estate Wealth Before Arrest In CEO Case</a>
Bankman-Fried's fall from grace came after FTX, once a leading cryptocurrency exchange, went bankrupt due to what prosecutors called criminal mismanagement. The platform had allowed users to trade digital coins and tokens, but its rapid collapse left many investors in financial ruin.
Meanwhile, Mangione faces charges of premeditated murder, with prosecutors painting him as a calculated individual whose actions stemmed from long-standing contempt for the healthcare industry. 
As the case unfolds, Mangione's transfer to the Brooklyn jail adds another layer of intrigue to the detention center's high-profile roster of inmates.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Legal

Luigi Mangione Lands In Same Brooklyn Jail As Diddy And FTX's Bankman-Fried

The cryptocurrency market has shown resilience following a significant downturn, with Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42254813/shiba-inu-burn-skyrockets-7400-nearly-2b-tokens-destroyed">leading the recovery</a>.
What Happened: A prominent market analyst predicts the dog-themed token could achieve a massive 235% rise, reaching a new yearly high of $0.00005816.
The broader crypto market faced turbulence earlier this week, as Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) plunged over 10% in two days, causing a ripple effect across altcoins. 
Shiba Inu retraced to a key support level around $0.0000185 during this period. However, SHIB has rebounded impressively, surging 28% from its lows and trading above $0.0002216 as of Saturday morning. According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga </a>Pro, It is almost up by 9% in the last 24 hours. 
Renowned analyst Dollars Maker <a href="https://www.tradingview.com/u/Dollars_Maker/">shared</a> a bullish outlook on Shiba Inu in a recent TradingView post. He noted that the token has further upside potential, outlining three ambitious price targets. According to Dollars Maker, SHIB could first see a 92% increase to $0.00003339, followed by a 163% surge to $0.00004566.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42256519/shiba-inu-soars-to-eight-month-high-up-13-as-meme-coins-rally" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shiba Inu Soars To Eight-Month High, Up 13% as Meme Coins Rally</a>
Ultimately, the analyst predicts SHIB will achieve a 235% spike, hitting $0.00005816. This would surpass its previous high of $0.000045 recorded in March 2024, but no specific timeline was provided for this projection.
Shiba Inu's recent recovery and growing optimism among analysts suggest that the token may be gearing up for significant gains, making it a focal point for crypto enthusiasts in the weeks ahead.
The meme coin surged by 208% so far in 2024, catapulting its market capitalization to $18.28 billion.
According to data from&nbsp;Benzinga, SHIB's market cap has been steadily increasing since September, with capital&nbsp;inflow into the Shiba Inu&nbsp;network propelling the ecosystem's market cap&nbsp;from $7.57 billion in the&nbsp;first week of September to&nbsp;$19.41 billion as of December&nbsp;5.
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

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Analyst Bullish on Shiba Inu, Sees 235% Surge Despite Recent Fall

If your investment portfolio feels like a headache right now, legendary investor Bill Ackman says not to worry—it'll eventually be a "blip." 
What Happened: The billionaire hedge fund manager, who founded Pershing Square Capital in 2004, has built a fortune of $3.7 billion by sticking to a set of straightforward investing principles.
Despite achieving significant success, Ackman has experienced both wins and losses throughout his career. Speaking on The Julia La Roche <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV949D8AUKU&amp;t=3s">Show</a> last year, he shared his belief that maintaining a long-term perspective is crucial for navigating difficult periods.
"If you look at the chart of Pershing Square over time, the difficult periods look like nothing now," he said. "You won't even notice the little blip in a decade or two decades, and you just have to have that kind of perspective."
In 2022, Pershing Square posted an 8.8% loss amid a turbulent market year, but this followed three years of double-digit gains: 26.9% in 2021, 70.2% in 2020, and 58.1% in 2019. 
Ackman attributed this resilience to a disciplined approach rooted in his "basic commandments" for investing, which are engraved on stone tablets at Pershing Square's New York headquarters.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42499608/investment-guru-peter-lynch-if-you-cant-explain-to-an-11-year-old-in-2-minutes-or-less-why-you-own-t">Investment Guru Peter Lynch: &#8216;If You Can&#8217;t Explain To An 11-Year-Old In 2 Minutes Or Less Why You Own The Stock, You Shouldn&#8217;t Own It&#8217;</a>
"We want to buy the best businesses in the world," Ackman explained, describing them as "simple, predictable, free cashflow generative, dominant companies with… a moat around them." The concept of an economic moat, popularized by Warren Buffett, refers to a company's ability to maintain a competitive edge and long-term stability. 
Ackman also emphasized the importance of strong balance sheets, excellent governance, and conservative valuations. "Own the best, super-durable companies you can find with conservative balance sheets," he said. "Buy them at attractive prices and ensure they're managed and governed correctly."
Ackman also highlighted red flags to avoid, such as businesses reliant on constant fundraising to sustain operations. He advised against shorting stocks or investing in commodity-sensitive industries. 
"Stay away from shorting stocks, avoid commodity-sensitive industries, and you do great," he said. He also warned investors to consider potential technological disruptions in today's dynamic landscape.
"There's a part of investing that's very simple. just make sure you think about the potential for disruption because we're in a world where technology is a very dynamic force," he said during the interview. 
Drawing inspiration from Buffett's famously simple advice—"don't lose money, and don't forget the first rule"—Ackman's principles reflect a disciplined yet straightforward approach to building long-term wealth.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Bill Ackman's Advice: 'Stay Away From Shorting Stocks, Avoid Commodity-Sensitive Industries, And You Do Great'

Eric Trump, executive vice president of the Trump Organization and son of President-elect Donald Trump, recently shared his views on tariffs, inflation and Federal Reserve policy.
Speaking exclusively with&nbsp;Benzinga‘s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/bibhu-pattnaik" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bibhu Pattnaik</a>, Eric Trump outlined his father's plans to address economic challenges, including energy costs, government spending, and international trade policies.
On tariffs, Eric Trump dismissed concerns about their potential to drive inflation. "What's going to drive inflation decreasing is frankly freeing up energy," he explained, adding that energy costs account for a significant portion of inflation. 
He expressed confidence that his father's policies, focused on increased domestic drilling and utilization of natural resources, would lower energy prices. Combined with proposed government spending cuts of $1 trillion in the first year or two.
&#8220;Energy makes up about 60% of inflation. And energy is going to come down in a very big way. Because my father wants a drill. He wants to utilize natural resources. And you won&#8217;t have a war on energy. Then second of all, you&#8217;re going to look at DOGE. And they&#8217;re going to cut a trillion dollars out of spending in the first year or two. Which has to happen. And when you look at the cuts in spending and when you look at, you know, obviously oil and gas coming down, that&#8217;s going to drive inflation way down. That&#8217;s going to drive interest rates down,&#8221; Eric Trump told Benzinga. 
Eric Trump argued these measures would bring down inflation, reduce interest rates, and make financing homes, businesses, and even crypto investments more affordable.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42496864/exclusive-eric-trump-calls-elon-musk-albert-einstein-of-our-time-says-tesla-ceo-will-help-build-a-stronger-america" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;EXCLUSIVE: Eric Trump Calls Elon Musk ‘Albert Einstein Of Our Time,' Says Tesla CEO Will Help Build ‘A Stronger America'</a>
&#8220;That&#8217;s going to free up a lot of capital that could otherwise be used. It&#8217;s going to make buying a new home more affordable. That&#8217;s going to be financing businesses more affordable. That&#8217;s going to make borrowing so you can purchase crypto more affordable. I think there&#8217;s a lot of great things to come,&#8221; he added. 
When asked about the Federal Reserve's approach to balancing inflation and recession risks, Eric Trump declined to offer specifics. However, he touched on his father's broader leadership strategy, emphasizing his firm stance on international conflicts and economic policies.
"He's put a lot of people on notice… to stop playing games," Eric Trump said, referencing efforts to resolve global conflicts and hold foreign powers accountable for trade imbalances.
Eric Trump praised his father's commitment to protecting U.S. interests through tariffs and strong foreign policy. He highlighted moves like signaling disengagement from prolonged Middle Eastern conflicts and pushing back against unfair practices by China and NATO. 
"He's going to stop getting ripped off by foreign powers," he said, underscoring his father's approach to fostering peace, stability, and economic strength.
As the Trump administration prepares to take office, these statements offer a glimpse into its potential economic priorities, signaling a focus on energy independence, fiscal responsibility, and assertive international policies.
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Image: Shutterstock

Interview

EXCLUSIVE: Eric Trump Predicts Inflation Drop Through Energy Policies And Spending Cuts

The Biden administration has made another major move to tackle the student debt crisis, approving $4.28 billion in <a href="https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/biden-harris-administration-approves-additional-428-billion-student-debt-relief-nearly-55000-public-service-workers-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">loan forgiveness</a> for nearly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/student-debt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">55,000 public service workers</a>.
This latest round of relief brings the total student loan forgiveness to a staggering $180 billion, benefiting nearly five million Americans.
The move is part of the administration&#8217;s broader efforts to fix the broken Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and provide much-needed relief to teachers, nurses, firefighters, and other public servants who dedicate their lives to the community.
In a statement celebrating the success, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona emphasized that the administration&#8217;s commitment to public service workers has resulted in life-changing debt relief.
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&#8220;Four years ago, the Biden-Harris Administration made a pledge to America's teachers, service members, nurses, first responders, and other public servants that we would fix the broken Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, and I'm proud to say that we delivered,&#8221; Cardona said.
The $4.28 billion announced on Friday is part of the ongoing transformation of the PSLF program, which has now forgiven $78 billion in loans for over a million borrowers under this administration alone.
The PSLF program, which offers forgiveness for borrowers who make 120 qualifying monthly payments while working in public service, has been significantly overhauled by the Biden-Harris administration.
The recent changes include improvements that make it easier for borrowers to qualify for forgiveness and track their progress toward the 120-payment requirement.
The department also made regulatory changes to expand eligibility, helping more public service workers access relief.
In addition to the PSLF fixes, the administration has implemented several other measures to alleviate student loan debt.
These include approving $56.5 billion for over 1.4 million borrowers under Income-Driven Repayment plans, which offer more affordable payment terms based on income. The government also provided $28.7 billion in loan forgiveness for borrowers defrauded by their schools or who attended institutions that closed unexpectedly.
Furthermore, the Biden administration has approved $16.2 billion in relief for nearly 572,000 borrowers with total and permanent disabilities, ensuring that they are not burdened by student loans they are unable to repay. These measures are part of a broader strategy to make higher education more accessible and reduce the financial barriers many face after graduation.
In addition to these student debt relief efforts, the administration also increased the maximum Pell Grant by $900, marking the largest increase in a decade.
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Biden Student Loan Forgiveness Tops $180 Billion With Latest Relief

A car-ramming attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on Friday night has left five people dead, including a nine-year-old child, with more than 200 injured <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and dozens critically wounded</a>.
The incident occurred when a car sped 1,200 feet into a crowd of shoppers in a narrow alley, NBC News <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/car-ramming-christmas-market-germany-rcna185066" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the event as &#8220;terrible&#8221; and expressed concern over the condition of nearly 40 critically injured individuals.
The suspect, a 50-year-old Saudi doctor who has lived in Germany since 2006, was apprehended by authorities.
Initially employed as a psychiatrist at a psychiatric hospital in Bernburg, the man had been off-duty since October due to illness and vacation.
While officials have not disclosed a clear motive, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser confirmed that the suspect had &#8220;clearly Islamophobic&#8221; views.
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The investigation is ongoing, with authorities focusing on understanding the attacker&#8217;s motivations, NBC News adds.
The attack has sparked renewed debate in Germany, especially ahead of the February snap elections.
The anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has seen significant gains, is expected to play a key role in shaping the upcoming government.
This incident has added fuel to discussions surrounding uncontrolled immigration, with the AfD likely to use it as a platform in the elections.
A memorial service will be held in Magdeburg&#8217;s cathedral, and a memorial has been set up near St. John&#8217;s Church to honor the victims.
The Saudi government and the U.S. State Department have expressed solidarity with Germany, condemning the attack and sending condolences to the victims&#8217; families, the report adds.
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Image: Wikiemedia Commons

Movers

Car Rams Into Christmas Market in Germany, Killing Five and Injuring More Than 200

The debt ceiling has become a central point of contention in Washington this week, disrupting year-end <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42154761/majority-of-americans-approve-of-trumps-second-term-agenda">government funding talks</a> that were resolved early Saturday.
What Happened: President-elect Donald Trump has called for either raising or completely eliminating the borrowing limit, a move that could resolve the issue before he assumes office and allow him to pursue his agenda without future debt-ceiling battles.
"Congress must get rid of, or extend out to, perhaps, 2029, the ridiculous Debt Ceiling," Trump wrote in a Truth Social <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113683687655180611">post</a> on Friday. "Without this, we should never make a deal. Remember, the pressure is on whoever is President."
This differs from Trump&#8217;s past view. In January 2013, he wrote, "I cannot believe the Republicans are extending the debt ceiling — I am a Republican and I am embarrassed!"
According to a report <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-raise-eliminate-debt-ceiling-default-economic-consequences-interest-rates-2024-12">by</a> Business Insider, the debt ceiling, which caps how much the federal government can borrow, has long been a contentious political tool. Failing to raise it risks a government default, jeopardizing programs like Social Security, Medicaid and housing assistance.
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A default could also spike interest rates, as the U.S. might lose its reputation as a creditworthy borrower. "It would mean higher rates on mortgages and credit cards, potentially leading to a deep recession," Len Burman of the Urban Institute told the outlet.
Trump's position aligns with some Democrats who advocate abolishing the debt ceiling altogether. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) recently voiced agreement, arguing that the ceiling is frequently weaponized to force spending cuts.
During previous standoffs, unconventional solutions like invoking the 14th Amendment or minting a $1 trillion platinum coin were proposed to sidestep the limit. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) suggested that such options remain viable if Congress fails to act.
Why It Matters: Despite Trump's push, many Republicans oppose eliminating the debt ceiling, citing its role as a check on federal borrowing. Trump has warned that GOP members opposing his stance may face primary challenges. 
The country is projected to hit the debt limit early next year, though the Treasury Department could delay default until late spring through accounting measures.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Why Trump Wants Debt Ceiling Killed Before He Takes Office

Perennial TV fave Ryan Seacrest is in contract to buy an expansive renovated $36 million estate, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;
The veteran presenter, known for presenting "American Idol," "Wheel Of Fortune" and "Live With Kelly and Ryan," routinely shuttles between New York and LA. He is buying his new home from fashion mogul Serge Azria, who paid $16.455 million for the Bel-Air property in 2020. Azria undertook a three-year renovation of the home before listing the roughly 11,000-square-foot Bel-Air property for $48 million in June.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Relaxing Mediterranean-Styled Escape</h2>
The contemporary Spanish-style home, built in 1928, features simple wood and off-white finishes and furnishings, arched inset porches and light wood beams beneath vaulted ceilings. It has a showbiz pedigree, previously owned by actress Diane Keaton twenty years ago.
&nbsp;Per Azria's intent, the home was remade with a Mediterranean feel, adding four olive trees in the garden to complement the minimalist, soothing color palette. The home also features a separate pool house with a wood-burning fireplace, a 5-6 car garage, a steam room, a sauna, a terrace and two kitchens.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Real Estate Moves</h2>
Seacrest – with a net worth of around $500 million – has been as busy buying and selling California real estate as he has presenting. He listed a Napa Valley estate for $22 million in July and sold a Beverly Hills home for $51 million to tech billionaire Brian Long in 2022. Seacrest had purchased the property from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/10/41148149/inside-ellen-degeneress-real-estate-side-hustle-as-she-reflects-on-life-after-comedy">Ellen DeGeneres</a> and Portia DeRossi for $36.5 million in 2012.
Seacrest also sold his New York home – a five-bedroom penthouse in the West Village – to Fanatics billionaire Michael Rubin for $43 million in the summer of 2023, as reported by the Daily Mail.&nbsp;
Trending: During market downturns, investors are learning that unlike equities, these<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/connect-invest-real-estate-notes"> high-yield real estate notes that pay 7.5% &#8211; 9% are protected by resilient assets, buffering against losses.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Business Empire</h2>
Though Seacrest is well known as a jovial on-screen presence, he is at the helm of a business empire offscreen. These include:
<ul>
<li>Ryan Seacrest Productions: Seacrest's production company is behind hit TV shows, including Keeping Up With the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/kim-kardashian"> Kardashians</a>, E! Live from the Red Carpet, Shahs of Sunset, I Love Kellie Pickler, Shades of Blue and Insatiable.</li>
<li>Ryan Seacrest Distinction: A menswear clothing line sold exclusively at Macy's.</li>
<li>Polished: A skincare line discontinued in 2022.</li>
<li>Casa Dragones tequila: Seacrest is the face of Casa Dragones tequila.</li>
<li>iHeartMedia: Seacrest has been an ongoing presence on iHeart Radio and recently inked a new deal that will see him remain the morning voice of radio in Los Angeles until the end of 2027.</li>
</ul>
He will also continue to host iHeart Radio events, including the two-day iHeartRadio Music Festival and LA's iHeartRadio Jingle Ball holiday concert.
In addition to hosting iHeart Radio-affiliated shows, Seacrest is the annual host of Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest, which he has hosted for the last 18 years, earning $1 million for the night.&nbsp;
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