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Former Congresswoman and current South Dakota governor, Kristi Noem, was announced as Donald Trump's pick to lead the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41950826/kristi-noems-appointment-as-homeland-security-secretary-raises-questions-about-federal-cannabis-policy"> Department of Homeland Security.</a>
Here's a look at Noem's finances and wealth.
Trump's Pick: Since winning the 2024 presidential election, Trump has started announcing who he will be<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/11/42171604/trumps-department-of-education-secretary-pick-linda-mcmahon-owns-tko-stock-thanks-to-famous-wrestling-past"> nominating for Cabinet positions.</a>
While many of the picks await official nomination and Congressional approval, Trump has been busy assembling his team.
Noem served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019 and has been governor of South Dakota since 2019.
The governor was on the shortlist of candidates that were expected to be named as Trump's vice-presidential pick for the 2024 election, even being one of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/01/36749394/trump-vice-president-pick-crypto-bettors-backing-haley-ramaswamy-desantis-and-this-potenti">the betting favorites</a> at prediction market Polymarket for some time.
A controversy involving Noem's newest book saying that her 14-month-old family hunting dog was shot by the politician may have led to her falling out as a top pick for the vice president role.
Did You Know?
<ul>
<li>Congress Is Making Huge Investments. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/gov-trades/?utm_source=BZprocontent112624">Get Tips On What They Bought And Sold Ahead Of The 2024 Election With Our Easy-to-Use Tool</a></li>
</ul>
Noem's Finances: As governor of South Dakota, Noem collects an annual salary of $121,578 as reported by <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/South_Dakota_state_government_salary">Ballotpedia</a>.
While in Congress, Noem collected a salary of $174,000 annually.
If elected to Trump's cabinet, Noem will <a href="https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/salaries-wages/salary-tables/24Tables/exec/html/EX.aspx">collect </a>an annual salary of $246,400.
A recent 2023 financial disclosure form filed in South Dakota showed that Noem has financial interest in Noem Insurance, run by her husband Byron Noem, and several small businesses.
Noem also listed cash rent from pastures as a source of income and has previously declared a family ranch in financial disclosures. The ranch was inherited when her father passed away and is co-owned with her mother and siblings.
The South Dakota governor has authored two books, which she lists as a source of income for royalties. The autobiography books are "Not My First Rodeo: Lessons from the Heartland" and "No Going Back," which were published in 2022 and 2024, respectively.
Noem's most recent disclosure from <a href="https://sdsos.gov/general-information/executive-actions/elected-officials-fis/search/Document.aspx?CabId=523E2A2A&amp;DocGuid=20230109-1607-2507-8681-b9af75c9a054">2023 </a>is easy to find and read on the South Dakota Secretary of State website. Older <a href="https://sdsos.gov/general-information/executive-actions/elected-officials-fis/search/Default.aspx">disclosures </a>don't load as images.
Estimates on Noem's wealth have varied greatly over the years based on some of the questions about her disclosures.
An estimate from <a href="https://www.opensecrets.org/personal-finances/kristi-noem/net-worth?cid=N00032022">OpenSecrets </a>in 2017 listed Noem's wealth at $2.35 million. Money <a href="https://moneyinc.com/kristi-noem-net-worth/">listed </a>her wealth at $4.5 million in a 2023 article using financials from 2021.
Energy Investment: Also listed on Noem's financial disclosures is an investment in Granite Falls Energy, which she has declared income from previously.
Noem disclosed that she made between $25,006 and $70,000 in dividends from the investment from her first Congressional run in 2010 through early 2019, as <a href="https://southdakotasearchlight.com/2023/06/30/noem-investor-in-ethanol-plant-partnered-with-carbon-pipeline-company/">reported </a>by South Dakota Searchlight. South Dakota disclosures do not require Noem to list the amount of income received, only the sources of income.
The report linked the energy company as a partner to Summit Carbon Solutions, a company that had proposed a carbon pipeline in South Dakota.
South Dakota Searchlight said the financial interest in the proposed pipeline raised questions about Noem's lack of support for anti-pipeline legislation in the state.
A spokesperson for Noem told the media outlet that the governor "invested in Granite Falls many years ago and has always appropriately disclosed her finances." The pipeline has struggled to gain voter support in South Dakota.
If elected into Trump's cabinet, Noem's past interest in and investments in energy pipelines could be worth monitoring by investors.
Several pipeline ETFs like the Alerian MLP ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMLP#NYSE">AMLP</a>) and Global X MLP &amp; Energy Infrastructure ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MLPX#NYSE">MLPX</a>) could benefit from having Noem, a pro-pipeline investor, in the Trump White House administration.
Noem's son-in-law Kyle Peters is a <a href="https://sosenterprise.sd.gov/BusinessServices/Lobbyist/LobbyistRegistrationDetail.aspx?CN=104015223000203061037142112123066229130120120058">registered </a>lobbyist for Gevo Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEVO#NASDAQ">GEVO</a>), a biofuels company, that could benefit from pipelines and energy investments in South Dakota.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/politics/24/11/42077496/donald-trumps-personnel-picks-new-poll-finds-elon-musk-with-highest-approval-by-voters-matt-gaetz-with-highest-disapproval">Donald Trump&#8217;s Personnel Picks: New Poll Finds Elon Musk With Highest Approval By Voters, Matt Gaetz With Highest Disapproval</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Maxim Elramsisy via Shutterstock

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Trump Department Of Homeland Security Pick Kristi Noem Owns Ranch, Invests In Energy, Gets Book Royalties

By <a href="https://roboforex.com/beginners/analytics/forex-forecast/?utm_source=benzinga.com&amp;utm_medium=pr&amp;utm_campaign=rf_en_external_article_26112024&amp;utm_content=analysis&amp;utm_term=forecast" style="color:#0563c1; text-decoration:underline">RoboForex Analytical Department</a>
The NZD/USD pair has experienced a significant decline, touching a low of 0.5841 and reaching a yearly trough of 0.5796. The primary pressure comes from a robust US dollar, bolstered by anticipations of a more stringent tariff regime under US President-elect Donald Trump. Speculations about Trump imposing an additional 10% tariff on all Chinese goods have particularly impacted the Kiwi, given China&rsquo;s role as New Zealand&rsquo;s largest trading partner.
The market pre-emptively reacts to potential US policy shifts, recalling Trump&rsquo;s previous term characterised by aggressive trade policies. This has cast a long shadow over the NZD, influencing investor sentiment.
The upcoming Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) meeting on Wednesday is crucial, with expectations leaning towards a 50-basis-point rate cut to 4.25% per annum. This expected move aligns with the RBNZ&rsquo;s dovish stance from October and could sustain the downward pressure on the NZD.
<h3>Technical Analysis Of&nbsp;NZD/USD</h3>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/files/u117641/nzdusdh4_15.png"><img alt="" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/u117641/nzdusdh4_15.png" style="height:280px; width:624px" /></a>
H4 chart: the NZD/USD has completed a decline wave, reaching 0.5797, with a subsequent recovery phase targeting 0.5922 underway. After reaching this level, a potential pullback to 0.5860 could establish a consolidation zone around this marker. A break below this range might extend the decline to 0.5777, while an upward breach could pave the way to 0.5977.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/files/u117641/nzdusdh1_15.png"><img alt="" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/u117641/nzdusdh1_15.png" style="height:280px; width:624px" /></a>
H1 chart: the pair is forming an initial growth wave towards 0.5860. Following this target, a retraction to 0.5828 is likely. The Stochastic oscillator supports this currency forecast, indicating a possible downturn from elevated levels and enhancing the likelihood of continuing the downward trajectory.
Disclaimer
Any forecasts contained herein are based on the author&#39;s particular opinion. This analysis may not be treated as trading advice. RoboForex bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading recommendations and reviews contained herein.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

NZD/USD Hits Yearly Low Amid US Dollar Strength

Telsey Advisory Group analyst Joseph Feldman maintains Best Buy Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBY#NYSE">BBY</a>) with a Outperform and lowers the price target from $115 to $110.

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Telsey Advisory Group Maintains Outperform on Best Buy Co, Lowers Price Target to $110

Nuveen California Dividend Advantage Municipal Fund 2

Trading Halt: Halt status updated at 6:30:00 PM ET: Quotation Resumption: News and Resumption Times

To gain an edge, this is what you need to know today.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://thearorareport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-11-26_08h02_04.png" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Buying Opportunity Ahead</h3>
Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/chart-analysis-stock-buying-opportunities-ahead-bitcoin-drop-bets-eww-mc-11262024">click here</a> for an enlarged chart of iShares MSCI Mexico ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EWW#NYSE">EWW</a>).
Note the following:
<ul>
<li>President-elect Trump is threatening to impose steep tariffs on Mexico and Canada using an executive order on his first day in office.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Mexico's president is responding by claiming that migrant caravans are no longer arriving at the U.S. border.&nbsp; She is also offering cooperation to stem the flow of drugs to the U.S.&nbsp;</li>
<li>If negotiations with Mexico do not go well, stocks in Mexico will be decimated.&nbsp; That will likely be an opportunity for long-term investors to back up the truck and buy stocks in Mexico.&nbsp; The reason is that there are simply not enough people in the U.S. to support economic growth and on-shoring of all of the manufacturing from China.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>The chart shows Mexico ETF EWW is oversold.&nbsp; However, EWW can become more oversold.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Mexico ETF EWW can easily fall to the top support zone shown on the chart.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>In The Arora Report analysis, the back up the truck buying opportunity will tentatively occur if Mexico ETF EWW falls to the lower support zone shown on the chart.&nbsp; However, this is all data dependent.&nbsp; Investors should carefully follow the data points.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Investors need to look ahead and be prepared if the opportunity in Mexico arises.&nbsp; Mexico has been continuously covered in The Arora Report&#8217;s ZYX Emerging for 17 years.&nbsp; As full disclosure, if there is a back up the truck buying opportunity, a signal will be made in The Arora Report&#8217;s Real Time Feed of ZYX Emerging.&nbsp; In a buy signal, the support zone is only one of many factors.&nbsp; The algorithms used by The Arora Report are highly complex and combine the best elements of macro analysis, fundamental analysis, technical analysis, and quantitative analysis with an overlay of change.&nbsp; Identifying change early and being prepared to capture opportunity leads to big gains.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>Trump is also threatening Canada with steep tariffs.  If Canadian stocks are decimated, there will be an opportunity to buy Canada ETF iShares MSCI Canada ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EWC#NYSE">EWC</a>).  Again, investors need to be prepared ahead of time to capture the opportunity if it arises.  As full disclosure, a signal to buy Canadian stocks will be in The Arora Report&#8217;s ZYX Allocation.  </li>
<li>Yesterday evening, when the news broke of Trump's tariff plan, stock futures were first quickly sold.&nbsp; Then, the momo crowd stepped in and has been aggressively buying the dip.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>There are important developments in bitcoin.&nbsp; Please scroll down to the bitcoin section below.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Magnificent Seven Money Flows</h3>
In the early trade, money flows are positive in Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), and Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are neutral in Alphabet Inc Class C (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) and&nbsp;Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are positive in SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Momo Crowd And Smart Money In Stocks</h3>
Investors can gain an edge by knowing money flows in SPY and QQQ.  Investors can get a bigger edge by knowing when smart money is buying stocks, gold, and oil.  The most popular ETF for gold is SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>).  The most popular ETF for silver is iShares Silver Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SLV#NYSE">SLV</a>).  The most popular ETF for oil is United States Oil ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bitcoin</h3>
At a time when almost everyone is bullish on Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and cryptos, money flows are at a record to short bitcoin.  As an example, money flows in ProShares UltraShort Bitcoin ETF (ARCA: SBIT) were at a record $18.8M yesterday.  Of course, money flows in short bets on bitcoin pale in comparison to money flows in long bets.  
Bitcoin whales took profits in the zone of $93,000 &#8211; $98,000, taking advantage of super excited retail investors.&nbsp; At a time when retail investors were converting their dollars into bitcoins, bitcoin whales were converting their bitcoins into dollars. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Protection Band And What To Do Now</h3>
It is important for investors to look ahead and not in the rearview mirror.&nbsp; The proprietary protection band from The Arora Report is very popular.&nbsp; The protection band puts all of the data, all of the indicators, all of the news, all of the crosscurrents, all of the models, and all of the analysis in an analytical framework that is easily actionable by investors.&nbsp;
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
You can determine your protection bands by adding cash to hedges.&nbsp; The high band of the protection is appropriate for those who are older or conservative. The low band of the protection is appropriate for those who are younger or aggressive.&nbsp; If you do not hedge, the total cash level should be more than stated above but significantly less than cash plus hedges.
A protection band of 0% would be very bullish and would indicate full investment with 0% in cash.&nbsp; A protection band of 100% would be very bearish and would indicate a need for aggressive protection with cash and hedges or aggressive short selling.
It is worth reminding that you cannot take advantage of new upcoming opportunities if you are not holding enough cash.&nbsp; When adjusting hedge levels, consider adjusting partial stop quantities for stock positions (non ETF); consider using wider stops on remaining quantities and also allowing more room for high beta stocks.&nbsp; High beta stocks are the ones that move more than the market.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Traditional 60/40 Portfolio</h3>
Probability based risk reward adjusted for inflation does not favor long duration strategic bond allocation at this time.
Those who want to stick to traditional 60% allocation to stocks and 40% to bonds may consider focusing on only high quality bonds and bonds of five year duration or less.&nbsp; Those willing to bring sophistication to their investing may consider using bond ETFs as tactical positions and not strategic positions at this time.
The Arora Report is known for its accurate calls. The Arora Report correctly called the big artificial intelligence rally before anyone else, the new bull market of 2023, the bear market of 2022, new stock market highs right after the virus low in 2020, the virus drop in 2020, the DJIA rally to 30,000 when it was trading at 16,000, the start of a mega bull market in 2009, and the financial crash of 2008. Please click here to sign up for a free forever <a href="https://thearorareport.com/generate-wealth-newsletter-benzinga">Generate Wealth Newsletter</a>.

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Back Up The Truck Buying Opportunities May Be Ahead, Record Bets On Bitcoin Drop

I&rsquo;ve always found technical analysis to be a fantastic history lesson for the markets.&nbsp; If you want to consider how the current conditions relate to previous market cycles, just compare the charts and you usually have a pretty good starting point for the discussion.
As we near the end of an incredibly bullish year for the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq, I&rsquo;m seeing plenty of signals that suggest the strength of 2024 may lead to a much weaker following year.&nbsp; Today we&rsquo;ll compare 2024 to 2021, talk about the many conditions which are highly similar, and also review an initial signal from one of the most bearish indicators in our arsenal, the Hindenburg Omen.
<h3>Market Trend Model Shows Striking Similarities</h3>
2024 has been a strong market year by any standards, from the continuous upward slope of moving averages, to the relatively low volatility compared to previous years, to the minimal drawdowns along the way.&nbsp; My Market Trend Model is what I often use to make an initial comparison between two historical periods, and it certainly backs up this particular conjecture.
<img alt="" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/u1465983/markettrend_2024-11-22.png" style="height:312px; width:624px" />
Note our long-term model (purple histogram) has been bullish for all of 2024, exactly as we logged in 2021.&nbsp; We can see the same pattern of consistent bullishness from the medium-term mode (green histogram) for both years.&nbsp; Even the short-term model appears to identify pullbacks of a similar time frame and depth for both years.
<h3>2021 Finished Strong But 2022 Brought a Whole New Trend</h3>
2021 ended in a position of strength, with the S&amp;P 500 making a new high going into year-end.&nbsp; However, the moment the calendar was flipped to 2022, everything quickly changed to a bearish phase.&nbsp; The short-term model turned almost immediately, and instead of quickly turning back higher, it remained bearish for weeks at a time.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The medium-term model, which I consider my main risk on/risk off indicator, turned bearish in mid-January and remains so until the end of Q1.&nbsp; So what differentiated early 2022 from the garden variety and very buyable pullbacks of 2021 was the medium-term model behaved quite differently.
As we head into year-end 2024, this is perhaps the most important chart in <a href="http://marketmisbehavior.com/charts">my Market Misbehavior LIVE ChartList</a>, as it would help confirm whether an impending selloff is different from the relatively painless and short-lived pullbacks in 2024.
<h3>The Hindenburg Omen Suggests a Potential Topping Pattern</h3>
Strategist Jim Miekka created the <a href="https://chartschool.stockcharts.com/table-of-contents/trading-strategies-and-models/trading-strategies/hindenburg-omen">Hindenburg Omen</a> by reviewing a series of previous major market tops and looking for similarities.&nbsp; He honed in on three particular factors:
<ul>
<li>The market in a confirmed as measured by the 50-day ROC of the NYSE Composite Index ($NYA).</li>
<li>At least 2.5% of the NYSE stocks make a new 52-week AND a new 52-low on the same day.</li>
<li>The McClellan Oscillator breaks below zero, confirming negative breadth conditions.</li>
</ul>
One final signal Miekka included was that there should be two independent signals within one month.&nbsp;&nbsp;
<img alt="" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/u1465983/hinden_2024-11-22.png" style="height:303px; width:624px" />
In the bottom panel, I&rsquo;m showing a composite indicator on StockCharts that tracks the three conditions listed above.&nbsp; You may notice that there have been a number of initial signals so far in 2024, but at no time have we received the confirmation signal within one month of the initial signal!
That&rsquo;s where we&rsquo;re at as we look forward to year-end 2024.&nbsp; Weakening breadth conditions and investor indecision, and now it&rsquo;s all about whether we receive that confirmation by mid-December.&nbsp; If so, that would suggest that early 2025 may look painfully similar to a very bearish early 2022!
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ek3wj00jknI?si=YBo4tVcPkEaWfRQ6" width="560"></iframe>
RR#6, Dave
PS- Ready to upgrade your investment process?&nbsp; Check out my <a href="https://www.marketmisbehavior.com/freecourse">free behavioral investing course</a>!
David Keller, CMT President and Chief Strategist Sierra Alpha Research LLC
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice.&nbsp; The ideas and strategies should never be used without first assessing your own personal and financial situation, or without consulting a financial professional.&nbsp;&nbsp;
The author does not have a position in mentioned securities at the time of publication.&nbsp; &nbsp; Any opinions expressed herein are solely those of the author and do not in any way represent the views or opinions of any other person or entity.
This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

2024 Is Shaping Up Much Like 2021, A Year That Ultimately Did Not Conclude Well

A new YouTube series, High Science, is set to debut on Nov. 27, offering viewers an unfiltered look into <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis">the world of cannabis. </a>
Hosted by Rich Batenburg Jr. and Rick Batenburg III, — a father and son entrepreneurial team who serve as chief executive officer and secretary of the board, respectively, of Clear Cannabis Inc.&nbsp;— the eight-episode show promises to explore the plant's potential as both an innovative industry and a powerful medicinal tool.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="High Science&#xAE; &#x7C; Official Season One Sizzle Reel" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bAkLBaAONLA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
</figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">A Bold Vision Born From Personal Experience</h3>
<a href="https://www.phoenixnewtimes.com/marijuana/scottsdale-based-high-science-show-explores-world-legal-weed-20631800">According</a> to Phoenix New Times, the concept for the show originated from an unlikely source: Scottsdale-based event promoter Ed Leclere. After undergoing brain surgery in 2018, Leclere credited cannabis for helping him manage his condition, sparking an idea to combine education and entertainment in a series exploring cannabis innovation.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42173811/hemp-and-thanksgiving-from-the-mayflower-to-independence-the-crop-that-helped-build-a-nation">Hemp And Thanksgiving: From The Mayflower To Independence, The Crop That Helped Build A Nation</a>
"When they finally did the surgery, they said it was more cyst-like than tumor. So I believe the cannabis was helping to break it down, even though the neurosurgeon didn't think so," Leclere said. "The doctors and Big Pharma don't believe anything other than what they prescribe."
Leclere's idea gained momentum when he teamed up with David McKillop, a two-time Emmy winner known for creating hit reality series like Duck Dynasty and Pawn Stars. McKillop joined the project as president and creative director, impressed by the vision of retaining full ownership of the show's intellectual property.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Cannabis Innovation On A Global Stage</h3>
High Science takes viewers on a journey through the cannabis industry, showcasing innovators and trailblazers from around the globe. The show highlights leaders like Moe Asnani and Chip Boyden of Arizona-based wholesaler iLAVA, as well as Yuri Downing, a cannabis entrepreneur who helped shape Arizona's licensing landscape.
Beyond Arizona, the series ventures to Massachusetts, Jamaica, and Australia, introducing viewers to legends like Jon Piasecki and Johnny GreenFingaz. Leclere refers to these individuals as "OGs" who have shaped the cannabis space for decades.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Why YouTube Became The Home For ‘High Science'</h3>
Bringing High Science to a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/05/32457197/cannabis-x-cannabis-the-new-documentary-series-unveiling-the-impact-of-cannabis-in-latin-america"> mainstream audience</a> came with its own set of challenges. Leclere and McKillop discovered that traditional networks were hesitant to air content focusing directly on cannabis due to its federal illegality in the United States. Many networks wanted to pivot the concept into more generalized business ventures, which clashed with the creators' vision of authenticity.
"YouTube allowed us to maintain creative freedom," Leclere explained. 
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Advocating For Plant-Based Medicine</h3>
At the heart of High Science lies a deeper mission: promoting cannabis as a legitimate plant-based medicine. Over the years, the plant's benefits have been embraced by those seeking relief for conditions like PTSD, epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain. Many of the show's featured personalities have long advocated for cannabis, even during its prohibition.
"These guys believe in this plant and have spent so many years in the underground, that when it finally started going legal, they came out of the dark into the light," Lecrere said.
In addition to the series, Leclere has launched the High Science Charity Foundation, which aims to support plant-based research and education, with a particular focus on underserved communities and veterans. Looking ahead, Leclere is considering expanding the series into the realm of psychedelic medicine for a potential second season.
"Plant-based therapy and clinical studies in plant-based medicine is the way to go," he continued. "And Big Pharma can't do nothing about it."
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/11/42178126/1000-free-turkeys-donated-by-michigan-dispensary-cannabis-infused-thanksgiving-feasts-in-arizona">1,000 Free Turkeys Donated By Michigan Dispensary, Cannabis-Infused Thanksgiving Feasts In Arizona</a></li>
</ul>
Image courtesy: High Science.

Cannabis

YouTube's High Science Is A Must-Watch For Cannabis Enthusiasts

Backwell will continue in his current role as Chief Executive Officer of QIND. &nbsp;Gavin Jones continues as the Company's Chief Financial Officer.
The Company has also announced that the hearing to appeal the delisting of its securities from Nasdaq has been scheduled for January 7, 2025. Management is confident that following the close of this transaction and the consolidation of financials, Fusion Fuel will meet the stockholder equity requirements for continued listing.
 &nbsp;

Management

HTOO

Fusion Fuel Green Completes QIND Acquisition; Names John-Paul Backwell As CEO; Frederico Figueira de Chaves, Formerly CEO, To Transition To Role Of Chief Strategy Officer And Head Of Hydrogen Solutions

DXYZ

Destiny Tech100 Reports Q3 Net Asset Value Of $5.32 Per Share Of Common Stock, An Increase From $5.15 At The End Of Q2

Maximus Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MMS#NYSE">MMS</a>) shares are volatile in extended trading Tuesday after the company announced the cancellation of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/b42201228/u-s-department-of-health-and-human-services-centers-for-medicare-and-medicaid-services-notify-maxi">contact center operations contract</a>.
What Happened: After the market close on Tuesday, Maximus said it received notification from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that the federal agency has canceled the Contact Center Operations (CCO) 1-800-MEDICARE and Federal Marketplace solicitation.
The company said the contract covered the same scope of work Maximus currently performs under separate contracts through option periods available until 2031.
&#8220;Maximus employees have consistently demonstrated their ability to successfully manage this critical program providing essential support to more than 75 million eligible Americans who rely on Medicare and the Federal Marketplace,&#8221; said Bruce Caswell, president and CEO of Maximus.
&#8220;We appreciate the opportunity to continue supporting HHS and CMS in their vital missions and look forward to delivering innovative, high-quality, and reliable solutions that benefit the American public.&#8221;
Maximus helps improve the delivery of public services&nbsp;as a strategic partner to governments around the world.
MMS Price Action: Maximus shares were volatile at the start of the after-hours session, but were trading approximately flat by the time of publication Tuesday at $73, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/42202858/workday-stock-slides-after-q3-results-beat-expectations-fy-subscription-revenue-guidance-revised-lower">Workday Stock Slides After Q3 Results Beat Expectations, FY Subscription Revenue Guidance Revised Lower</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock.

Health Care

After-Hours Center

Movers

Maximus Stock Bounces Around After Hours Tuesday: What's Going On?

Kentucky took a significant step in its medical cannabis program on Monday, awarding the first 36 dispensary licenses through a randomized lottery system. Governor Andy Beshear announced the winners, emphasizing the program's fairness and focus on providing safe and affordable access to medical cannabis for patients with chronic illnesses like cancer and PTSD.
<ul>
<li>Get Benzinga&#8217;s exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter&nbsp;<a href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. You can't afford to miss out if you&#8217;re serious about the business.</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Regional Allocation And Next Steps</h3>
The licenses were distributed across nine of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/kentucky-cannabis">Kentucky</a>'s 11 designated regions, ensuring geographic spread and reducing travel times for patients. Each region received four licenses, with businesses selected using a random number generator. Winners have 15 days to pay a $30,000 licensing fee or forfeit their license. Additional lotteries for the Lexington and Louisville metropolitan areas will occur on December 16.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/11/41843261/kentucky-gov-beshear-the-jury-is-no-longer-out-kentuckians-want-medical-cannabis">Kentucky Gov. Beshear: &#8216;The Jury Is No Longer Out,&#8217; Kentuckians Want Medical Cannabis</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Application Surge And Market Stability</h3>
The Kentucky Office of Medical Cannabis received nearly 5,000 applications, with 4,075 specifically for dispensaries. This overwhelming interest reflects the market&#8217;s potential. Executive director Sam Flynn highlighted efforts to avoid over saturation, drawing lessons from Kentucky's hemp industry collapse.
Beshear reiterated the program&#8217;s goal of <a href="https://www.lpm.org/news/2024-11-25/beshear-announces-first-ky-cannabis-dispensary-license-winners-defends-lottery-process">starting small to ensure market stability</a>, with room to expand as demand grows.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Concerns About Out-Of-State Influence</h3>
Criticism has emerged over potential out-of-state dominance in the licensing process. Companies linked to multiple winning applications, have raised questions about fairness. Beshear defended the process, noting that each winning business must incorporate and operate within <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/kentucky-cannabis">Kentucky</a>.
Medical cannabis certification for qualifying patients begins December 1, along with an online directory of licensed practitioners. While there is no set timeline for dispensary openings, Beshear assured that businesses have strong incentives to launch quickly, aiming to provide in-state access by January 1, 2025.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/10/41608654/kentucky-and-delaware-held-cannabis-licensing-lotteries-ushering-in-new-regulated-markets">Kentucky And Delaware Held Cannabis Licensing Lotteries, Ushering In New Regulated Markets</a>

Regulations

Legal

Kentucky Awards First Medical Cannabis Dispensary Licenses

The Company said it is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for its healthcare solutions and to continue driving value for stakeholders.

Guidance

SYRA

Syra Health Plans To Present At NobleCon20; Says Its Financial Outlook Is Robust, With Strong Revenue Growth And An Expanding Market Presence

Berlin&#8217;s Senator for Justice Felor Badenberg recently criticized Germany's cannabis law. According to Badenberg, contrary to the objectives of the law, legalization actually made the fight against the black market and organized crime more difficult, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.zeit.de/news/2024-11/26/berliner-justizsenatorin-cannabis-gesetz-aufheben" rel="noreferrer noopener">writes</a> Zeit online, according to translation.
"What was touted by the federal government as a milestone in drug policy has proven in practice to be a serious mistake that will cause long-term damage to our country," the CDU politician told the German Press Agency. "It has to be repealed."
On Thursday, Nov. 28th, a conference of justice ministers of the federal states will be held and experiences with the cannabis law will be discussed.
Partial cannabis legalization <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/04/38023610/heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-weed-legalization-in-germany-that-just-took-effect" rel="noreferrer noopener">took effect in Germany on April 1</a>, making it the third country in the European Union to legalize adult-use cannabis after <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/21/12/24601584/maltas-parliament-says-yes-to-cannabis-legalization-becoming-first-in-europe-to-legalize-weed" rel="noreferrer noopener">Malta and</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/06/33063370/another-eu-country-legalizes-weed-top-gov-official-calls-cannabis-criminalization-a-failure" rel="noreferrer noopener">Luxembourg</a>. Under this first pillar of cannabis legalization, adults over 18 can legally possess up to 25 grams of dried cannabis flower and cultivate up to three marijuana plants at home. One of the biggest breakthroughs under the law is that medical cannabis is essentially <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/07/39830117/medical-marijuana-regulated-as-ibuprofen-is-one-of-the-biggest-breakthroughs-of-germanys-cannabi" rel="noreferrer noopener">regulated like ibuprofen.</a>
However, Berlin's proposed resolution argues that the law has caused troubles in effort to deal with the illegal market and organized criminal activities, especially in the commercial trade in cannabis products. The issues lies in the fact that the law change disabled telephone surveillance, online searches in its usual extent. This means that not all the evidence are allowed to be used in criminal proceedings.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Read Also: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/41885393/germanys-govt-coalition-crisis-is-cannabis-reform-at-risk" rel="noreferrer noopener">Germany&#8217;s Govt. Coalition Crisis, Is Cannabis Reform At Risk?</a>
Get Benzinga's exclusive analysis and the top news about the cannabis industry and markets daily in your inbox for free. Subscribe to our newsletter <a target="_blank" href="https://newsletteremail.benzinga.com/subscribe" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>. If you're serious about the business, you can't afford to miss out.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Drug Dealers As Beneficiaries Of The Law</h2>
One specific case that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40697724/weed-smuggler-among-few-freed-under-germanys-new-cannabis-law" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently made headlines</a>, involves a 36-year-old man who smuggled 450 kilograms (992.08 lbs) of cannabis into Germany, estimated to be worth 1.9 million euros ($2.1 million). The controversy arises from the new law, which doesn&#8217;t consider cannabis-related crimes as serious crimes and therefore the prosecutors can&#8217;t use encrypted chats from the provider Encrochat as evidence. The man was released, prompting Baden-Württemberg's Minister of Justice, Marion Gentges (CDU), to say, "Drug dealers are beneficiaries of this law.&#8221;
The case was before the Mannheim Regional Court, but the court's judgment is not yet legally binding, writes the outlet. However it is raising questions among the judiciary nationwide, and cannabis opponents are using it as an argument against the reform.
The German government is working on the second pillar of its cannabis legalization law –setting up municipal five-year pilot programs for state-controlled marijuana to be sold in licensed shops. Moreover, it was recently confirmed that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/10/41662047/frankfurt-and-hannover-prepare-for-cannabis-sales-study-amid-health-alarms-over-black-market-con" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recreational cannabis sales will launch in Hannover and Frankfurt</a> next year under a pilot program set to last five years.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/24/11/42126680/german-cannabis-20-tons-10m-grams-and-thats-only-0-3-of-the-market-whats-missing" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">German Cannabis: 20 Tons, 10M Grams &#8211; And That&#8217;s Only 0.3% Of The Market, What&#8217;s Missing?</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/11/42069381/european-leaders-meet-in-berlin-to-discuss-cannabis-policies" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">European Leaders Meet In Berlin To Discuss Cannabis Policies</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Courtesy of Plateresca via Shutterstock

Eurozone

Berlin's Justice Senator Says Cannabis Law Benefits Mafia-Like Structures And It Should Be Repealed

fter the closing of the Transaction, Gran Tierra would retain 50 percent working interest in the Assets.&nbsp;

Asset Sales

Gran Tierra Energy Enters Agreement, Under Which Logan Energy Would Acquire 50% And Operatorship Of Portion Of Simonette Montney Assets For C$52M In Cash

Gran Tierra Energy Says Milestone Achieved In Ecuador With Seventh Successful Oil Discovery Further Confirming Significant Potential Of  Arawana / Zabaleta Field Area

The November 20, 2024 letter was sent as a result of the Company's delay in filing its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three month period ended September 30, 2024.
Gundumogula will continue to serve as a director and chairman of the Company's Board.
On November 21, 2024, the Board appointed Jesus Portillo as CEO and a member of the Board, effective as of November 25, 2024. Portillo will retain his current duties and responsibilities as Chief Financial Officer of the Company.

MOND

Mondee Holdings Gets Nasdaq Non-Compliance Letter; Says Prasad Gundumogula Informed Board On Taking Leave Of Absence As CEO, Effective As Of November 25; Jesus Portillo Named As CEO

The Company regrets the continued delays in its quarterly filings, which have been impacted by a confluence of significant events and transactions completed in 2024.&nbsp;
The Company is working diligently to file the Quarterly Reports for both the second and third quarters as promptly as practical, and expects to return to a normal filing cadence in 2025.

RILY

B. Riley Financial Expects To Return To Normal Filing Cadence In 2025; Reveals Notification Of Additional Delinquency With Nasdaq For Late Filing Of Form 10-Q For Period Ended September 30, 2024

HP Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HPQ#NYSE">HPQ</a>) reported its fourth-quarter results after Tuesday's closing bell. Here's a look at the key figures <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/g42201260/hp-inc-reports-fiscal-2024-full-year-and-fourth-quarter-results">from the quarter.&nbsp;</a>
The Details:&nbsp;HP reported quarterly earnings of 93 cents per share, in line with the analyst consensus estimate. Quarterly revenue came in $14.05 billion, which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $13.99 billion and is an increase over sales of $13.82 billion from the same period last year.
<ul>
<li>HP&#8217;s net cash provided by operating activities in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2024 was $1.6 billion. </li>
<li>Accounts receivable ended the quarter at $5.1 billion, up two days quarter over quarter at 33 days.</li>
<li>Inventory ended the quarter at $7.7 billion, down four days quarter over quarter to 63 days.</li>
<li>Accounts payable ended the quarter at $16.9 billion, up seven days quarter over quarter to 138 days.</li>
<li>HP generated $1.5 billion of free cash flow in the fourth quarter.</li>
</ul>
HP also raised its annual dividend by 5%, boosting its quarterly cash dividend from $0.2756 to $0.2894 per share. 
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&#8220;We are pleased with our Q4 performance where we saw revenue growth for the second consecutive quarter, driven by steady progress in Personal Systems and Print,&#8221; said Enrique Lores, HP president and CEO.
&#8220;With momentum heading into FY25, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the commercial opportunity and lead the future of work,&#8221; Lores added. 
Outlook:&nbsp;HP expects first-quarter adjusted earnings of between 70 cents and 76 cents per share, versus the 85 cent estimate, and fiscal 2025 earnings of between $3.45 and $3.75 per share, versus the $3.60 estimate. 
HPQ Price Action: According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, HP shares are down 7.93% after-hours at $36 at the time of publication Tuesday.&nbsp;
Read More:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/42203124/ambarella-stock-soars-in-after-hours-trading-tuesday-whats-going-on">Ambarella Stock Soars In After-Hours Trading Tuesday: What&#8217;s Going On?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Earnings

Tech

HP Stock Drops After Q4 Results, Weak Forward Guidance: Details

SANW

S&W Seed Expects High End Of Range To Be At Adjusted EBITDA Breakeven For The Rest Of FY25

Ambarella Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMBA#NASDAQ">AMBA</a>) shares are soaring in Tuesday&#8217;s after-hours session on the heels of the company&#8217;s third-quarter financial results. Here&#8217;s a look at the key <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/g42200722/ambarella-inc-announces-third-quarter-fiscal-year-2025-financial-results">highlights from the quarter</a>.
What Happened: Ambarella reported third-quarter revenue of $82.65 million, beating analyst estimates of $79.03 million, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>. The company reported third-quarter adjusted earnings of 11 cents per share, beating estimates of four cents per share.
&#8220;Company-specific factors are more than offsetting broad market weakness, and we are reporting 30% sequential revenue growth in fiscal Q3, above the high-end of our guidance range, with strength led again by our customers&#8217; new products, especially those incorporating our higher priced AI inference processors,&#8221; said Fermi Wang, president and CEO of Ambarella.
&#8220;Edge AI revenue represented about&nbsp;70%&nbsp;of our total revenue, establishing a new record level, and this momentum is expected to enable growth in both our IoT and Auto markets in F2025 and F2026.&#8221;
Ambarella ended the quarter with $226.5 million in cash, cash equivalents and marketable debt securities, up from $222.3 million at the end of the prior year&#8217;s quarter.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/42201885/dell-technologies-shares-drop-after-q3-revenue-misses-estimates-details">Dell Technologies Shares Drop After Q3 Revenue Misses Estimates: Details</a>
What&#8217;s Next: Ambarella expects fourth-quarter revenue to be between $76 million and $80 million. Fourth-quarter gross margin is expected to be between 61.5% and 63%, and operating expenses are expected to range between $49 million to $52 million.
&#8220;With the anticipated revenue growth, we intend to drive positive operating leverage and build upon our 15 consecutive fiscal years of positive free-cash-flow,&#8221; Ambarella&#8217;s CEO added.
AMBA Price Action: Ambarella shares were up 22.42% in extended trading at $83.75 at the time of publication Tuesday, per <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Photo: Shutterstock.

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