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The past week has been a whirlwind of tech news, with Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) making headlines on multiple fronts. From analyst predictions about the company&#8217;s future to its upcoming ventures, there&#8217;s a lot to unpack. Meanwhile, Huawei Technologies Co. is gearing up to challenge Apple in China with its advanced chip, and Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) lucrative deal with Apple is under threat due to an antitrust ruling. Let&#8217;s dive into the details.
Apple&#8217;s Future: Smaller, Yet Profitable Ventures
Mark Gurman, a renowned analyst, advised investors this week not to anticipate another product like Apple&#8217;s iPhone. Instead, he suggested that the company&#8217;s future lies in a series of smaller, profitable ventures. The iPhone remains Apple&#8217;s core product, driving over half of the company&#8217;s revenue and forming the foundation of its ecosystem.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41894509/apples-next-big-bet-think-smaller-says-analyst-there-will-never-be-another-iphone">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple&#8217;s Smart Camera: A New Venture in 2026
Apple reportedly plans to enter the smart home IP camera market in 2026, aiming for tens of millions of annual shipments, according to Ming-Chi Kuo, an analyst at TF Securities. The device will integrate with Apple products, targeting a share of the 30–40 million units shipped globally each year.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41891237/apples-smart-camera-coming-in-2026-cupertino-eyeing-tens-of-millions-in-annual-shipments-says-top-supply-chain-analyst">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42132292/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-takes-on-64b-pig-butchering-scams-targeting-people-through-dating-apps-social-media-crypto-investing-and-other-apps?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Zuckerberg&#8217;s Meta Cracks Down On $64B &#8216;Pig Butchering&#8217; Scams Involving Dating Apps, Social Media And Crypto Investing</a>
Huawei&#8217;s Advanced Chip: A Challenge to Apple in China
Huawei Technologies Co. is set to release its most advanced domestically made chip in the Mate 70 series, amid ongoing U.S. sanctions. The launch comes as Huawei continues to increase its market share in China, where it has seen a rise in consumer demand.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42132104/huawei-to-launch-mate-70-smartphone-with-advanced-homegrown-chip-challenging-apple-in-china-amid-us-sanctions-report">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple&#8217;s AI-Powered Siri: A Competitor to OpenAI and Google Gemini
Apple is reportedly developing a conversational AI-powered Siri to compete with OpenAI&#8217;s ChatGPT and Google's Gemini Live voice assistant. The new version of Siri will allow back-and-forth interactions with quicker and more advanced responses.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/42129847/apple-prepares-to-take-on-openais-chatgpt-google-gemini-live-with-llm-siri-in-2025-report">Read the full article here.</a>
Google&#8217;s Antitrust Ruling: A Threat to Apple&#8217;s Revenue
Google&#8217;s agreement to pay Apple over $20 billion a year to make its search engine the default on iPhones is now under threat. An antitrust lawsuit against Google's parent company revealed that these payments accounted for 17.5% of Apple&#8217;s operating income in 2020.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42083150/googles-20b-search-deal-with-apple-faces-collapse-after-antitrust-ruling-what-it-could-means-for-both-tech-giants">Read the full article here.</a>
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

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Apple's Future Ventures, Huawei's New Chip, And Google's Antitrust Woes: This Week In Appleverse

The past week has been a rollercoaster ride in the financial world. From the surge in small-cap stocks to the potential impact of President-elect Donald Trump&#8217;s DOGE initiative, there&#8217;s a lot to unpack. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories of the week.
Small-Cap Stocks Soar
U.S. small-cap stocks have been the star performers this November, following a well-established seasonal trend. The Russell 2000 index, a benchmark for small-cap equities, has seen an impressive 8% rise this month, setting the stage for a strong December. This aligns with the historical trend of small caps excelling in the final two months of the year, often leading to the so-called &#8220;Santa Rally&#8221;.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42124676/november-small-cap-surge-could-carry-into-decembers-santa-rally-historical-trends-suggest">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s DOGE Initiative
President-elect Donald Trump&#8217;s appointed DOGE (Department of Government Efficiency) could potentially save $50–100 billion annually, according to Congressional Budget Office analyses. However, Mario Georgiou, CFA, and executive director, head of investments at InCred Global Wealth U.K., suggests that the scale of potential savings is expected to be modest compared to total federal outlays of approximately $6.7 trillion in 2024.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42131911/donald-trump-appointed-doge-to-have-marginal-impact-saving-50-100-billion-says-analyst-as-elon-musk-aims-to-target-500-billion-plus-in-federal-expenditures">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42097545/feds-bowman-warns-on-inflation-risks-signals-neutral-rate-may-be-closer?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fed&#8217;s Bowman Warns On Inflation, Says Neutral Interest Rates May Be Closer &#8216;Than We Currently Think&#8217;</a>
Alarm Bells for US Auto Loans
ARK Invest CEO Cathie Wood has raised concerns about the state of auto loans in America. She notes that 90-day delinquency rates have now surpassed levels seen during the 2009 financial crisis. This comes despite continued investor confidence in auto-backed securities.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42080723/cathie-wood-sounds-alarm-on-us-auto-loans-as-90-day-delinquency-rates-surpass-2009-levels">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump Picks Treasury Secretary
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen hedge fund executive Scott Bessent as the U.S. Treasury Secretary. Bessent, founder of Key Square Group, was a leading candidate, competing with former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh and private equity executive Marc Rowan.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/42150805/trump-picks-hedge-fund-exec-scott-bessent-as-treasury-secretary-what-president-elects-choice-means-for-americas-economic-future">Read the full article here.</a>
US Business Activity Hits 31-Month High
The U.S. private sector activity posted its fastest pace of expansion in more than two and a half years in November. This was driven by exceptional growth in the services sector, which continues to far exceed even the most optimistic forecasts by economists.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/11/42141413/us-business-activity-soars-to-31-month-highs-in-november-small-caps-rally-dow-tops-44000">Read the full article here.</a>
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/ananya-gairola" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ananya Gairola</a>

Economics

Small-Cap Surge, Trump's DOGE Initiative, Auto Loan Alarms, And Treasury Secretary Pick: This Week In Economics

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) has amassed a staggering <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42143260/warren-buffett-claims-to-not-time-the-market-but-his-cash-horde-tells-a-different-story">$325 billion cash reserve,</a> its largest ever, and nearly double the previous year's balance. This coincides with a record high in Warren Buffett's favored valuation metric: the stock market&#8217;s value relative to the U.S. economy. While this may seem like Buffett is predicting an imminent market downturn, his strategy is more nuanced and insightful.
What Happened: Nir Kaissar, founder of Unison Advisors, said in an opinion <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2024-11-21/buffett-s-325-billion-cash-hoard-is-an-early-warning-signal">piece</a> for Bloomberg that Buffett readily admits he cannot forecast short-term market movements or crashes. Instead, he focuses on long-term returns, adjusting Berkshire's asset allocation accordingly.
Kaissar explains this approach as allocating assets based on expected returns rather than speculating on market timing. This principle has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41867250/warren-buffetts-apple-stake-reduction-spurs-97b-cash-surge-analysts-speculate-this-could-be-the-reason-behind-berkshire-hathaways-massive-cash-pile">consistently shaped Buffett's decisions</a>.
Berkshire's cash allocation has fluctuated dramatically, from 1% in 1994 to 28% today. &#8220;The record shows Buffett consistently raising Berkshire's cash allocation as stock valuations rise during booms — and expected returns consequently decline — and drawing down cash as opportunities arise,&#8221; Kaissar said.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42088394/economist-gordon-johnson-slams-federal-reserve-for-asset-owner-centric-policies-says-fed-needs-to-focus-on-the-real-economy-over-stock-markets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gordon Johnson Slams Federal Reserve For Asset-Owner Centric Policies, Says Jerome Powell Needs To Focus On ‘Real Economy&#8217;: ‘…The Stock Market Will Be Fine&#8217;</a>
He added that during the 1990s internet bubble, Buffett increased cash holdings as valuations soared but deployed capital as opportunities emerged. Similarly, leading up to the 2008 financial crisis, Buffett boosted cash reserves, only to invest strategically during the downturn, including a well-timed Goldman Sachs stake.
Buffett's approach hinges on a fundamental principle: valuations and future returns are inversely related. When assets are overvalued, expected returns decline, justifying higher cash reserves.
Today, the market-to-GDP ratio is at unprecedented levels, signaling potentially lower future returns. With cash yields comparable to those during past booms, Berkshire's significant cash reserve reflects Buffett's strategy of preparing for opportunities in an uncertain market.
Why It Matters: The surge in Berkshire&#8217;s cash reserve has sparked speculation about Buffett&#8217;s motives. Some analysts believe it could be a sign of an impending market downturn, while others suggest it may be part of a larger strategy, such as an acquisition plan or<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42137295/as-mstrs-michael-saylor-says-warren-buffett-is-destroying-berkshire-capital-analyst-suggests-overpricedhot-stock-market-could-be-the-reason-oracle-of-omaha-is-sitting-on-325b-cash"> a buyback plan</a> in case of a succession.
Jeff Muscatello, a research analyst at Berkshire investor Douglass Winthrop, suggested that the impending management transition could be a factor in Buffett's decision to cash out. "The nearing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/11/41869558/warren-buffetts-apple-stake-reduction-spurs-97b-cash-surge-analysts-speculate-this-could-be-the-reas">inevitable management transition makes</a> it an opportune time to clear the decks for the next generation," he said.
MicroStrategy Inc. co-founder Michael Saylor also weighed in. Saylor said <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42084722/warren-buffett-destroy-not-investing-in-bitcoin-says-microstrategys-michael-saylor">Buffett was destroying billions </a>of dollars in capital by not utilizing the huge hordes of cash at their disposal to invest in Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>). "I'd&nbsp;want to bet you&nbsp;that if I had an&nbsp;hour alone with Buffett in&nbsp;a calm environment, I'd&nbsp;walk out and he would&nbsp;say this Bitcoin thing is a&nbsp;pretty good idea," he said.
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This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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Is Warren Buffett Preparing For A Market Downturn With Berkshire Hathaway's $325B Cash Pile? Analyst Says Internet Bubble And 2008 Crash May Have Lessons

Kevin O'Leary is warning about how expensive <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/07/39792500/kevin-oleary-believes-america-is-the-biggest-business-in-america-and-wants-executives-in-cabinet-tha">running a business in America</a> is becoming. In a recent Fox Business segment, O'Leary discussed how complicated rules and taxes are making it harder for companies across industries.
He also expressed hope that leaders like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy could bring about change by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-reduce-taxable-income-for-high-earners">simplifying taxes</a> and reducing<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42084945/coinbase-ceo-brian-armstrong-backs-doge-initiative-how-blockchain-could-transform-government-efficiency"> unnecessary regulations</a>.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">If Elon and Vivek are able to simplify tax and deregulate the economy by just 30%, the cost savings would be huge. The cost I have to spend each year just to remain compliant increases about 20% per year. I've never seen cost escalation like I have in the past five years. <a href="https://t.co/0HcTRfpNeq">pic.twitter.com/0HcTRfpNeq</a>
&mdash; Kevin O&#39;Leary aka Mr. Wonderful (@kevinolearytv) <a href="https://twitter.com/kevinolearytv/status/1858624028568703280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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"If they just solved for simplifying tax and deregulated the economy, just say 30%, pulled some of that regulation out," O'Leary said. According to O'Leary, the costs associated with staying compliant – like paying auditors, consultants and lawyers – are going up by about 20% yearly. "The cost that I have to spend each year just to remain compliant goes up at about 20% a year between all the consultants, the auditors, the lawyers and the changing rules of regulation," he shared.
O'Leary explained that he operates across all 11 sectors of the economy and has never seen such an escalation in costs as he has in the last five years. He&#8217;s not alone either; many other business leaders share his concerns. He mentioned that if you spoke to the CEOs of the S&amp;P 500 companies, they would tell you these regulatory costs are among the most rapidly growing expenses they face.
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&#8220;There&#8217;s lots of room for efficiency, lots of room for action on that,&#8221; O&#8217;Leary said. By <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41291074/dimon-calls-out-red-tape-says-its-deeply-frustrating-america-isnt-solving-its-problems">pulling back on the red tape</a>, businesses could save money and use it for other purposes, such as expanding their operations, hiring more staff or lowering consumer prices.
O&#8217;Leary hopes that by bringing in business-minded leadership – people like Elon Musk, who has already shown his ability to cut through inefficiencies at Twitter or Vivek Ramaswamy, known for his straightforward approach – the U.S. could reduce these burdens and give companies some much-needed breathing room.
However, not everyone is convinced that Musk and Ramaswamy are the right leaders for this challenge. Critics argue that while Musk&#8217;s methods at Twitter have been effective in certain areas, they have also been controversial and have led to disruptions. Some doubt whether his approach would translate well to government-level regulation involving a different scale and set of complexities.&nbsp;
Similarly, while appealing, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/11/42038767/im-one-of-you-how-anti-woke-warrior-vivek-ramaswamy-became-a-billionaire-at-only-38">Ramaswamy&#8217;s straightforward approach</a> may lack the nuance required to navigate the intricacies of federal regulations. There are concerns that oversimplification could lead to unintended consequences, potentially creating more issues than solutions.
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Costs Have Escalated Drastically, Warns Kevin O'Leary, Hopeful Elon And Vivek Can 'Simplify Tax And Deregulate The Economy'

Elon Musk sparked confusion online yet again – this time with his take on Argentina's new import tax cuts. Recently, Argentina&#8217;s President-elect Javier Milei announced a major policy change to reduce taxes on imports.&nbsp;
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As part of his economic reform plan, Milei wants to make imported goods more affordable. Starting in December, he will raise the tax-free limit on international purchases from $1,000 to $3,000. Personal imports will also get a tariff exemption of up to $400. This move is meant to open up the economy and make things easier for shoppers in Argentina.&nbsp;
Elon Musk seemed to think so. In response to a tweet discussing Milei&#8217;s idea, he expressed his support for the tax cut by simply saying, &#8220;Good move.&#8221;&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Good move <a href="https://t.co/lrIevpBU3l">https://t.co/lrIevpBU3l</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1857698387371397241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The tweet caught a lot of attention as many people quickly called Musk out for what they saw as mixed signals – supporting a policy in Argentina that seems opposite to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/11/42042411/inflation-could-surge-to-3-if-trump-applies-universal-tariffs-goldman-sachs">U.S. import tariffs promoted by Donald Trump</a>, whom Musk has also publicly supported.
For instance, one user tweeted, &#8220;You supported the presidential campaign of the guy advocating for the largest tariff hike in modern U.S. history, lmao.&#8221; Another wrote, &#8220;Import taxes = tariffs. You support cutting them elsewhere and raising them here? Shameful hypocrisy.&#8221; Alex Cole added to the discourse, writing, &#8220;So removing tariffs is a good move and Donald Trump adding tariffs is also a good move? Bizarro world.&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Different Countries, Different Needs?</h2>
Not everyone saw it as straight-up hypocrisy. Some X users argued that Musk's take could be valid if viewed in the context of Argentina's economy compared to the U.S.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36597688/argentinas-inflation-was-around-200-in-2023-and-it-could-get-worse-in-2024-new-leadership-says-it-wi">Argentina is dealing with hyperinflation</a> and a major recession, so reducing import taxes might be a much-needed lifeline to help people afford basic goods. Dan Victor, a CFA, commented, &#8220;It&#8217;s different for the world&#8217;s largest economy compared to one suffering from a deep recession and hyperinflation.&#8221;
Another user pointed out that different countries might use different tools for different reasons. &#8220;Start by studying comparative economic policy. Then, once you understand that two completely different countries/economies implementing different policies is normal, this should make a little more sense.&#8221;
While some felt Musk was inconsistent, others believed his opinion could make sense given the drastically different economic situations of Argentina and the United States. The U.S. has a massive, stable economy, whereas Argentina is struggling to stabilize itself amid economic turmoil.
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'Bizarro World' – People Are Really Confused By Elon Musk Praising Argentina's Javier Milei Slashing Import Taxes

Satellite images have reportedly revealed that Russia has supplied North Korea with over one million barrels of oil since March, violating United Nations sanctions that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41561980/zelensky-sounds-alarm-on-potential-north-korean-involvement-in-ukraine" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">restrict oil sales to North Korea</a>.
These transfers are part of a broader arrangement in which North Korea sends weapons, artillery shells, and even troops to aid Russia&#8217;s war in Ukraine, the BBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cjr4pr0gyyzo" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
The oil deliveries, tracked by the UK-based Open Source Centre, are seen as a direct quid pro quo for North Korea&#8217;s military support, with the oil serving to fuel Pyongyang&#8217;s own operations and provide stability amid ongoing sanctions.
According to satellite imagery analyzed by UK-based non-profit research group the Open Source Centre and shared exclusively with the BBC, North Korean oil tankers have made 43 trips to Russia&#8217;s Far East, with vessels arriving empty and leaving full.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42115069/warren-buffett-is-set-to-collect-776-million-in-coca-cola-dividends-but-daughter-says-his-wife-buys-him-the-soda-on-sale" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warren Buffett Is Set To Collect $776 Million In Coca-Cola Dividends – But Daughter Says His Wife Buys Him The Soda &#8216;On Sale&#8217;</a>
Despite UN sanctions capping the amount of oil North Korea can receive at 500,000 barrels per year, Russia&#8217;s illicit shipments have far exceeded this limit, with experts estimating more than a million barrels have been supplied since March.
The BBC added that these transfers not only breach UN sanctions but also involve ships that are themselves under sanction, some of which should have been impounded upon entering Russian waters, citing Go Myong-hyun, a senior research fellow at South Korea&#8217;s Institute for National Security Strategy.
The situation marks a new level of contempt for international regulations, as Russia has actively circumvented the UN panel responsible for monitoring such violations, disbanding it through its veto at the Security Council in March.
Experts worry this cooperation between two autocratic regimes may lead to even more dangerous collaborations, potentially involving military technology transfers that could further destabilize the region, the BBC adds.
While the oil deliveries provide crucial fuel for North Korea&#8217;s military, which relies on oil for its missile launchers and munitions factories, concerns are growing over the potential for more military technology exchanges, particularly in satellite and ballistic missile advancements. 
Both the US and South Korea are closely monitoring the evolving ties between Russia and North Korea, with the possibility of these exchanges further threatening global security.
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Image: Shutterstock

Politics

Media

Satellite Images Reveal North Korea Reportedly Receiving Illicit Oil from Russia

Elon Musk on Saturday shared a cryptic tweet on X, hinting at a significant turning point in human history.
What Happened: Musk&nbsp;responded to a post on X by Bojan Tunguz, which referred to an unspecified event as &#8220;one of the major inflection&nbsp;points of human history.&#8221; Musk&#8217;s reply was enigmatic, stating, &#8220;I knew if I brought&nbsp;a sink they would have&nbsp;to let that sink in.&nbsp;How could they not?&#8221;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I knew if I brought a sink they would have to let that sink in. How could they not? <a href="https://t.co/voEVBMC7Ht">https://t.co/voEVBMC7Ht</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1860199022121943545?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The Tesla and SpaceX CEO&#8217;s post on X has left his followers intrigued, as they attempt to decipher the meaning behind his cryptic words.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42152684/musk-tweet-sparks-dogecoin-surge-fuels-speculation-on-x-payments">Musk Tweet Sparks Dogecoin Surge, Fuels Speculation On X Payments</a>
Why It Matters: Musk is known for his cryptic tweets, which often lead to widespread speculation. His recent tweet, which suggests a significant turning point in human history, has sparked a flurry of theories among his followers.
While the exact meaning behind Musk&#8217;s tweet remains unclear, it underscores his reputation as a thought leader in the tech industry, known for pushing boundaries and challenging conventional thinking.
Read Next
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Social Media

"I Knew If I Bought a Sink": What Does Elon Musk's Cryptic Tweet Mean?

President-elect Donald Trump is preparing a sweeping plan to reshape the Department of Justice (DOJ) and direct the department to investigate claims that the 2020 election was rigged against him when he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/11/42027218/could-trumps-housing-plans-reshape-the-real-estate-market">assumes office in January</a>.
What Happened: According to a report, Trump plans to dismiss Special Counsel Jack Smith and other DOJ employees who investigated allegations of voter fraud in the 2020 election, despite the lack of evidence supporting such claims.
The proposed changes come as Trump continues to challenge the legitimacy of President Joe Biden's victory. Trump's plans, aimed at targeting investigations into unfounded voter fraud claims, <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/11/22/trump-jack-smith-prosecutors-firing-justice-department-investigation/?utm_source=twitter&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=wp_main">reports</a> The Washington Post.
Smith, who has been leading federal investigations into Trump's alleged attempts to overturn the 2020 election and his handling of classified documents, could see his tenure cut short under a second Trump administration. 
According to the report, Smith&nbsp;has already announced that&nbsp;he would resign from the department before Trump begins his second term, ending the election interference and classified documents cases against the president-elect.
Trump's legal troubles include multiple indictments, with some stemming from Smith's probes.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/11/41869001/heres-how-trumps-policies-might-shape-the-markets-future">Here&#8217;s How Trump&#8217;s Policies Might Shape The Market&#8217;s Future</a>
"President Trump campaigned on firing rogue bureaucrats who have engaged in the illegal weaponization of our American justice system, and the American people can expect he will deliver on that promise," press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement.
The former president's proposed DOJ overhaul also involves investigating claims of election fraud that have been repeatedly debunked by courts and bipartisan officials. 
Why It Matters: Legal experts warn that using the DOJ to pursue baseless allegations risks undermining the department's credibility and its independence. Critics argue such actions could set a dangerous precedent by politicizing federal investigations to serve partisan interests.
Trump has made challenging the 2020 election results a central theme of his campaign. His rhetoric continues to resonate with supporters, while drawing criticism from opponents and legal scholars.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Shutterstock

Trump Plans DOJ Overhaul Including Firing of Jack Smith's Team

President-elect Donald Trump has selected Russell Vought, co-author of the conservative policy agenda Project 2025, as director of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42024583/world-bank-worries-over-budget-cuts-after-24b-mishap-trump-win" rel="noreferrer noopener">Office of Management and Budget (OMB) in his second term.</a>
Vought previously served as OMB&#8217;s deputy director during Trump&#8217;s first term. But his influence extends beyond OMB. He wrote the chapter on the Executive Office of the President in Project 2025, a conservative policy framework developed by The Heritage Foundation, The Hill <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/5005710-trump-picks-project-2025-author-russell-vought-to-lead-budget-office/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
&#8220;He did an excellent job serving in this role in my First Term &#8211; We cut four Regulations for every new Regulation, and it was a Great Success!&#8221; Trump <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113529338208908362" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wrote</a> in a post on Truth Social on Friday. &#8220;We will restore fiscal sanity to our Nation.&#8221;
Trump praised Vought&#8217;s experience in public policy, describing him as an aggressive cost-cutter and deregulator who would help advance the &#8220;America First&#8221; agenda across federal agencies.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/42152586/judge-rejects-sec-bid-to-penalize-musk-over-missed-deposition" rel="noreferrer noopener">Judge Rejects SEC Bid to Penalize Musk Over Missed Deposition</a>
The president-elect emphasized Vought&#8217;s knowledge of dismantling the so-called &#8220;Deep State&#8221; and restoring self-governance to the American people, alongside a promise to restore fiscal discipline.
In response to the selection, Vought <a href="https://x.com/russvought/status/1860121532758204758?prefetchTimestamp=1732383856583" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">posted</a> on X, &#8220;There is unfinished business on behalf of the American people, and it&#8217;s an honor of a lifetime to get the call again.&#8221;
Project 2025, which includes input from scholars and policy experts, proposes sweeping changes such as reshaping the executive branch and reducing the size and funding of certain government agencies.
While Trump previously distanced himself from Project 2025 during his campaign, citing its controversial elements, his decision to appoint Vought as OMB director signals a strong alignment with its conservative priorities. The project has faced significant backlash from Democrats, who argue it threatens American democratic institutions.
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Image: Wikimedia Commons

Trump Picks Project 2025 Co-Author Russell Vought for OMB

Gov. Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) has unveiled the framework for the California Jobs First Economic Blueprint, a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering job creation and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/10/41547103/new-rules-old-challenges-californias-cannabis-industry-grapples-with-regulations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regional economic growth across the state</a>.
The blueprint focuses on building a sustainable economy by directing investments into ten key industry sectors, with a focus on innovation, sustainable growth, and access to good-paying jobs, per a <a href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2024/11/21/regional-economic-development-plans/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">release</a> on the Governor&#8217;s official website.
The full plan will be released early next year, alongside $120 million in funding to support job-creating projects over the next three years.
Speaking in Fresno alongside community leaders and business owners from the Central San Joaquin region, Newsom said that this bottom-up approach, developed through extensive community input, would help shape the future of California&#8217;s economy.
Read Also: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42152721/tesla-cybertruck-part-of-donald-trumps-motorcade-will-vehicle-land-government-deals" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla Cybertruck Part Of Donald Trump&#8217;s Motorcade, Will Vehicle Land Government Deals?</a>
&#8220;From agriculture to clean energy to manufacturing and everything in between, these blueprints will foster growth and expansion throughout every community of California,&#8221; Newsom said.
More 10,000 local residents and experts participated in identifying priority sectors that will drive regional economies.
The framework categorizes California&#8217;s economy into four key segments:
<ul>
<li>Strengthen (established sectors with leveling growth)</li>
<li>Accelerate (growing sectors poised for expansion with strategic investments)</li>
<li>Bet (emerging sectors with high investment potential), and</li>
<li>Anchor (foundational sectors that support broader industry and community activities). </li>
</ul>
According to Newsom, this approach will ensure that both current and future industries provide good, well-paying jobs for Californians, particularly in underserved communities.
As part of the California Jobs First initiative, the blueprint also emphasizes workforce development. Through this effort, California is focusing on ensuring its workforce is well-prepared to meet the specific needs of priority industries.
The state has also invested heavily in training programs, with over $4 billion in state funding directed towards workforce development, apprenticeship, and education initiatives.
Newsom&#8217;s plan builds on previous efforts, such as the Community Economic Resilience Fund (CERF) and the Regional Investment Initiative, which collectively aim to create high-quality, accessible jobs across all 13 of California&#8217;s regions.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/42152586/judge-rejects-sec-bid-to-penalize-musk-over-missed-deposition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Judge Rejects SEC Bid to Penalize Musk Over Missed Deposition</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Newsom Unveils Economic Blueprint To Ignite Job Growth, Sees 'Expansion Throughout Every Community of California'

Billionaire Elon Musk on Saturday shared a post on X  which said &#8220;The people want the Diddy &amp; Epstein Files.&#8221; Later he shared his perspective by saying &#8220;Yes&#8221; on the post.
Last month, President-elect Donald Trump stated that he would be open to releasing additional files concerning convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein if he were to return to the White House.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Yes. <a href="https://t.co/8PEeBHCNod">https://t.co/8PEeBHCNod</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1860202873218564568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
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This is not the first time Musk has raised his concern around this issue. Last year Musk raised the question on Twitter, asking why the&nbsp;Department of Justice&nbsp;had not leaked&nbsp;Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell&#8216;s list of clients and why the media didn&#8217;t seem to care to look into the clients&#8217; identities.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Only thing more remarkable than DOJ not leaking the list is that no one in the media cares. Doesn't that seem odd? <a href="https://t.co/JEK4TErABB">pic.twitter.com/JEK4TErABB</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1533161114586042369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Earlier this year, Mark Epstein, the younger brother of disgraced financier Epstein, has alleged that his brother possessed information that could have influenced elections involving Trump and the Clintons.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41220104/elon-musk-says-billionaires-supporting-kamala-harris-are-scared-epstein-list-will-be-made-public-if">Elon Musk Says Billionaires Supporting Kamala Harris Are Scared Epstein List Will Be Made Public If Trump Returns To Power</a>
A Manhattan court has released a list of people connected to Jeffrey Epstein, which has raised eyebrows and intensified speculation. Some of the 187 individuals previously only identified as "J Doe" in court papers have been identified, but other names reportedly remained sealed, including those of underage victims.
Musk's remarks have sparked mixed reactions, with some praising his call for justice and others questioning his involvement in such discussions. Known for engaging with hot-button topics, Musk often uses his platform to address societal and legal issues.
In December 2021, Maxwell was found&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dailywire.com/news/ghislaine-maxwell-jeffrey-epsteins-former-girlfriend-found-guilty-in-sex-abuse-trial" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">guilty</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/12/24823587/epstein-associate-ghislaine-maxwell-found-guilty-of-5-charges-in-sex-trafficking-case" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;of helping to recruit teenage girls</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;Epstein, who&nbsp;died in August 2019.
Maxwell, known as&nbsp;&#8220;Inmate 02879-509&#8221; while incarcerated,&nbsp;is currently serving her sentence at the Federal Correctional Institution&nbsp;in Tallahassee, Florida.&nbsp;
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Elon Musk Agrees That People Want To See Jeffrey Epstein Files

Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (R-Ore.), a moderate who lost her House seat this month, has been <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/donald-trump" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">selected by President-elect Donald Trump</a> to lead the Labor Department in his new term.
Trump praised Chavez-DeRemer, who first won her seat with just 51% of the vote in 2022 and lost it by a two-point margin this year, for her work with both business and labor groups to support American workers, The New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/11/22/business/economy/labor-secretary-lori-chavez-deremer-trump.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
Following Trump&#8217;s announcement, National Education Association President Becky Pringle acknowledged Chavez-DeRemer&#8217;s legislative record in the House, per a <a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-cabinet-labor-secretary-lori-chavezderemer-feaa4672efac644aa60722d3a3215df1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a> from AP News.
However, Pringle indicated that educators and working families would closely monitor the confirmation process and hoped Chavez-DeRemer would commit to supporting workers and students.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42151529/chamath-palihapitiyas-suggestion-for-donald-trump-make-paying-taxes-simple-and-enforcement" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chamath Palihapitiya&#8217;s Suggestion For Donald Trump: &#8216;Make Paying Taxes Simple And Enforcement…&#8217;</a>
Though not a major figure in labor politics, Chavez-DeRemer garnered significant union support during her campaign. She shared endorsements with her Democratic opponent, Janelle Bynum, earning the backing of groups like the Teamsters, firefighters, and ironworkers.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, who spoke at one of Chavez-DeRemer&#8217;s rallies, remarked that she received more union endorsements than any Republican he had ever seen, The New York Times added.
While labor leaders criticized Trump&#8217;s labor policies during his first term, Chavez-DeRemer&#8217;s selection was praised by some in the labor movement. Sean O&#8217;Brien, president of the Teamsters, who had been in contact with Trump throughout the campaign, called her appointment a step toward creating more union jobs. Chavez-DeRemer, whose father was a Teamster, has emphasized her work on the fentanyl crisis and law enforcement during her campaign.
As labor secretary, Chavez-DeRemer will face the challenge of possibly reversing Biden-era policies, which focused on expanding worker protections, including new overtime eligibility and protections for gig workers.
Under Trump, it&#8217;s expected that many of these measures could be rolled back, alongside stricter enforcement of child labor laws and worker classification regulations, per The New York Times.
The Labor Department&#8217;s approach to immigrant workers and workplace safety could also shift, reflecting the broader policy changes anticipated under a second Trump term.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Wikimedia Commons

Trump Taps Teamsters-Backed Chavez-DeRemer For Labor

The Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) Cybertruck may be able to add President-elect Donald Trump to the list of celebrities who are fans of the unique electric vehicle after a recent <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/24/11/42058175/trump-may-attend-elon-musks-starship-test-flight-in-texas-on-tuesday-report">visit to SpaceX</a>.
What Happened: The Cybertruck has attracted purchases from Tesla fans, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/03/37852639/tesla-cybertruck-the-new-celebrity-fashion-accessory-steve-aoki-big-sean-latest-to-own-ev">celebrities</a> and even been bought by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41246431/after-shaq-jay-z-beyonce-and-others-tesla-cybertruck-joins-joins-irvine-police-departments-fleet-wil">some police departments</a>.
President-elect Trump recently traveled to Starbase in Texas to watch the sixth flight test of SpaceX's Starship, where he also interacted with Tesla CEO and friend Elon Musk.
While pictures and videos of the visit have gone viral online, one of the items investors might be paying attention to is a video of a Cybertruck being in Trump's motorcade.
"Cybertruck in the motorcade on Starbase," Trump's Deputy Director of Communications Margo Martin tweeted with a video.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Cybertruck in the motorcade on Starbase &#x1f680;&#x1f1fa;&#x1f1f8; <a href="https://t.co/8u6ZtZeJW1">pic.twitter.com/8u6ZtZeJW1</a>
&mdash; Margo Martin (@margomartin) <a href="https://twitter.com/margomartin/status/1859021962510823902?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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While it's unknown who was in the Cybertruck, the Tesla vehicle stood out as it was in the convoy of police and armored vehicles
You may not be a billionaire like Elon Musk, but you can uncover hidden gems in the stock market using our proprietary data and pattern recognition — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/24/11/42144099/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-44">check out five stocks flying under the radar that deserve your attention.</a>
Why It's Important: Given the importance to protect Trump during travel given past assassination attempts on his life, the use of a Cybertruck in the convoy could signal the trust in the stainless steel vehicle said to be bulletproof. &nbsp;
Investors will be watching to see if Cybertrucks could make their way into the president's convoy going forward or if this was only due to the close proximity to the SpaceX location.
Trump<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40179186/youtuber-gifts-trump-a-tesla-cybertruck-with-custom-wrap-of-his-pennsylvania-rally-shooting-incident"> was previously gifted </a>a Cybertruck wrapped with an image of himself and featuring the words "Make America Great Again" on the hood by YouTuber Adin Ross.
"That's an Elon. That is beautiful," Trump said when he saw the vehicle.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/09/40736498/elon-musks-blade-runner-inspired-cybertruck-now-serves-pizza-on-the-side">Elon Musk&#8217;s &#8216;Blade Runner&#8217;-Inspired Cybertruck Now Serves Pizza On The Side</a></li>
</ul>

TSLA

Tesla Cybertruck Part Of Donald Trump's Motorcade, Will Vehicle Land Government Deals?

Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) experienced a 5% surge following a tweet by Elon Musk on X. This has sparked fresh speculations about the imminent payments service on Musk&#8217;s social app.
What Happened: Musk&#8217;s Friday post, which featured a screenshot of podcaster Joe Rogan&#8217;s X profile, triggered the increase in Dogecoin&#8217;s price. 
The post displayed a unique dollar icon, different from the app&#8217;s tipping service, leading to speculations that it could be related to the anticipated X Payments service.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Have to say that <a href="https://twitter.com/joerogan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@joerogan</a>'s profile description is awesome &#x1f602; <a href="https://t.co/6Z8hUAQIBj">pic.twitter.com/6Z8hUAQIBj</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1859930496278368525?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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</figure>
Musk responded to the speculation with a simple &#8220;true&#8221;, further fueling the rumors. Dogecoin&#8217;s price has historically been influenced by payment-related news from any of Musk&#8217;s ventures, including X, formerly known as Twitter.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">True
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1860003103518732614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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</figure>
There are speculations that once the service is live, it might support transactions with digital assets like DOGE, given Musk&#8217;s known fondness for the token. 
Musk&#8217;s electric car company, already accepts DOGE payments for certain merchandise purchases in its online store.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/08/40429878/dogecoins-active-users-on-the-rise-will-this-impact-doge-price">Dogecoin&#8217;s Active Users On The Rise, Will This Impact DOGE Price?</a>
Over the past 24 hours, DOGE has advanced 6.16% and at the time of writing it was trading at $0.4332, outperforming the stagnant Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) prices. The token has risen 190% over the past month, trading at its highest level since May 2021.
Why It Matters: The surge in Dogecoin&#8217;s price following Musk&#8217;s tweet is significant as it highlights the influence Musk has over the cryptocurrency market. 
His tweet sparked speculations about the forthcoming X Payments service, which could potentially support transactions with digital assets like DOGE. 
This is particularly noteworthy given Musk&#8217;s known fondness for the token and the fact that his electric car company, Tesla Inc., already accepts DOGE payments for certain merchandise purchases. 
The rise in DOGE&#8217;s price also outperformed the stagnant bitcoin prices, indicating a growing interest in alternative cryptocurrencies.
Read Next
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

$DOGE

DOGE

Musk Tweet Sparks Dogecoin Surge, Fuels Speculation On X Payments

The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/dea">Drug Enforcement Administration </a>(DEA) has been barred from conducting random searches of travelers&#8217; belongings at airports and transit hubs following a Justice Department investigation that exposed corrupt practices. The investigation, led by Inspector General Michael Horowitz, uncovered failures to properly document searches, potential racial profiling and questionable partnerships with airline employees. 
One airline worker reportedly received tens of thousands of dollars over several years as a kickback for flagging passengers based on travel patterns, such as purchasing last-minute tickets. 
"The DOJ Office of the Inspector General (OIG) found that the DEA has repeatedly failed to comply with its own policies, creating significant operational and legal risks," according to the <a href="https://oig.justice.gov/news/doj-oig-releases-management-alert-identifying-concerns-deas-transportation-interdiction">report</a>.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/07/33156524/dea-turns-50-unveiling-the-ineffectiveness-of-the-ongoing-war-on-drugs-now-what">$1 Trillion And 50 Years Later, Is The DEA&#8217;s War On Drugs A Failure?</a>
The decision to suspend the searches was issued on November 12 by the deputy attorney general after reviewing the draft report. The Justice Department's memo restricts DEA agents from engaging in consensual encounters at transit locations unless tied to active investigations or approved under special circumstances.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Systemic Corruption</h2>
The report follows a widely circulated video released by the <a href="https://ij.org/press-release/department-of-justice-suspends-controversial-airport-interdictions-after-viral-footage-showing-dea-agents-threatening-abusing-innocent-traveler/">Institute for Justice</a> (IJ), a nonprofit civil rights organization. One case cited in the memo involved a traveler approached by a DEA Task Force Officer at an airport. The video shows a traveler, identified as David C., refusing to consent to a search at an airport. Despite his objections, agents took his backpack, claimed a drug-detection dog alerted them and conducted the search, which yielded no illegal items. The delay, which caused David to miss his flight, resulted in widespread public criticism.
Further investigation revealed systemic issues. The DEA rarely documents its searches unless they result in seizures or arrests, making it impossible to determine how many travelers have been impacted. In one case, musician Brian Moore had $8,500 seized at an airport, money intended for a music video project. He was never charged with a crime but spent a year and $15,000 in legal fees to recover his funds. Moore said the experience ruined his music career.
A 2016 <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/2016/08/10/dea-travel-record-airport-seizures/88474282/">USA Today investigation</a> found that DEA agents seized over $209 million from more than 5,200 travelers at 15 major airports over a decade, with most funds shared with local police. Critics argue these practices incentivize unconstitutional searches for profit.
The Institute for Justice has since sued the DEA and TSA, advocating for legislation to eliminate these financial incentives. The DEA has yet to respond to the findings.
Now Read:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40586896/dea-can-still-make-cannabis-arrests-in-legal-weed-states-like-ohio-but-its-not-our-goal">DEA Can Still Make Cannabis Arrests In Legal Weed States Like Ohio, But It&#8217;s Not &#8216;Our Goal&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Courtesy of DEA

Cannabis

Government

DEA Banned From Random Airport Searches After Scathing Justice Department Report Uncovers Corruption

A federal judge dismissed the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) request to penalize Elon Musk for skipping a court-ordered deposition in its investigation into his $44 billion acquisition of Twitter, now known as X.
What Happened: On Friday, Judge Jacqueline Scott Corley of the U.S. District Court in San Francisco determined that sanctions were unwarranted after Musk complied by testifying on Oct. 3 and agreed to reimburse the SEC's travel costs of $2,923, reports Reuters.
The SEC sought sanctions for Musk's failure to attend a Sept. 10 deposition as ordered, contending that merely covering travel costs would not deter individuals from ignoring court directives, particularly someone of Musk's financial stature. According to Forbes, Musk's net worth stands at $321.7 billion.
"Because the present circumstances forestall any occasion for meaningful relief that the court could grant, the SEC's request is moot," Corley wrote in the verdict.
Musk defended his actions, stating he had fulfilled the court's requirements by testifying in October. On Sept. 10, he was in Cape Canaveral, Florida, overseeing SpaceX's Polaris Dawn mission.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40866970/new-book-reveals-elon-musks-twitter-buy-fumble-and-mix-up-over-grimes-baby-name">New Book Reveals Elon Musk&#8217;s Twitter Buy Fumble And Mix-Up Over Grimes&#8217; Baby Name</a>
The SEC is probing whether Musk violated securities regulations by delaying disclosure of his Twitter stock purchases in early 2022. 
After the decision, Musk expressed his triumph on X . He responded to a post from a user who applauded his success against the SEC. Musk responded to the user saying, "SEC. The middle word is definitely ‘Elon's,' but I can never remember what the other two words stand for."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">SEC. The middle word is definitely "Elon's", but I can never remember what the other two words stand for &#x1f914;. <a href="https://t.co/ZZiPyXecZk">https://t.co/ZZiPyXecZk</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1860210546345419261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The regulator claims Musk waited at least 10 days longer than required, allowing him to acquire shares at lower prices before revealing his 9.2% stake and later announcing plans to buy the platform outright.
In July, Musk admitted misunderstanding SEC disclosure rules, calling his actions a "mistake."
What It Matters: This is not Musk's first legal clash with the SEC. In 2018, the agency sued him over Twitter posts about taking Tesla Inc. private. Musk settled by paying a $20 million fine, stepping down as Tesla's chairman, and agreeing to have company lawyers vet certain tweets in advance.
The case, SEC v. Musk, is being heard in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39999410/what-a-second-trump-presidency-would-mean-for-elon-musk-and-his-many-ventures">What A Second Trump Presidency Would Mean For Elon Musk And His Many Ventures</a>
This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Judge Rejects SEC Bid to Penalize Musk Over Missed Deposition

The third and final monthly contest in Benzinga's paper trading competition powered by TradeZero kicked off on Nov. 15, giving contestants a chance to take home over $15,000 in cash and prizes as part of the more than $30,000 in cash and prizes offered during <a href="https://benzingapartners.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=467&amp;aff_id=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the three-month run</a>.
The current leader of the third contest has posted an impressive gain, but as past contests have shown, it's still anyone's game.
The Contests:&nbsp;Powered by&nbsp;TradeZero, the&nbsp;<a href="https://benzingapartners.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=467&amp;aff_id=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Championship of Trading</a>&nbsp;is the ultimate trading competition for investors to prove their keen eye during a three-month time period.
Contestants start each contest with a paper balance of $100,000. Each investor will have around one month to generate the highest profits from a starting balance of $100,000 in a simulated trading account.
Contestants in the World Championship of Trading will have access to Benzinga's Live Squawk product.
Investors will also gain exposure to TradeZero's newly patented short-selling tools.
Here's the leaderboard for the second contest through Nov. 22:
1st: James C.: $2,194,368.83
2nd: Mayank B.: $594,080.03
3rd: Willis R.: $357,886.00
All of the top 10 traders on the leaderboard have a balance of at least $226,000, gaining over 126% during the contest.
The leaderboard features some familiar names from past monthly contests. People who have followed the contests also know that the leaderboard often changes from the first week to the last week, meaning it's not too late to sign up and compete before the Dec. 8 deadline and the contest end date of Dec. 14.
Past Leaders: Benzinga<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/politics/24/11/41957889/benzinga-world-championship-of-tradings-top-trader-up-over-7000-thanks-to-2024-election-tesla-options"> recently talked to</a> first-place leader Sebastian N from the second monthly contest to find out more about how he generated the huge gains in a short time.
&#8220;I was definitely waiting for the election,&#8221; Sebastian told Benzinga. &#8220;To win this contest you gotta go big.&#8221;
Knowing that Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk had endorsed Donald Trump and the stock could gain from a Trump win, Sebastian said he tracked the electric vehicle stock.
The trader said the stock was already breaking out before the election and seemed like it was going to continue moving higher. Sebastain bought Tesla calls and made it the biggest trade he had made during the contest.
&#8220;If Trump wins, we&#8217;re gonna do well,&#8221; Sebastian said, recalling his trades.
The trader said he sold the Tesla calls shortly after Trump won the election, netting a large profit in the paper trading contest, but admits he could have made an even larger gain if he held onto them for longer.
Sebastian&#8217;s advice for anyone entering the third and final contest is to remember that the leaderboard is constantly changing and you can still win the contest.
&#8220;No matter where you are on the leaderboard, you can always improve on your trading.&#8221;
Andrea S., the winner of the first contest, went from $100,000 to more than $1 million in the paper trading account in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/exclusives/24/10/41240862/benzinga-world-championship-of-trading-powered-by-tradezero-1-contestant-up-988-in-3-weeks-join-now" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">less than a month.</a>
Benzinga previously&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/DjRmtokM2YQ?si=V0zxoFo4dHh0jPGT&amp;start=3615" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">interviewed&nbsp;</a>Andrea S., who was in the top 10 for most of the contest and was in first place several weeks.
Contest Rules:&nbsp;The contest is open to residents of the United States and Canada who are 21 years of age or older.
Traders will be able to buy simulated equities and options from U.S. markets during the contest periods starting with a balance of $100,000. No fractional shares will be allowed. Traders have to hold a minimum of one stock or option throughout the contest. A minimum of five days of one trade or more must be completed throughout each contest.
Interested investors have been able to&nbsp;<a href="https://benzingapartners.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=467&amp;aff_id=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign up to join</a>&nbsp;the contest since Friday, July 26. Signing up for the first contest will automatically register an entry in the second and third contests. Traders can sign up for the contests after the start dates as long as it is before a cutoff deadline.
The dates for the&nbsp;<a href="https://benzingapartners.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=467&amp;aff_id=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">contests</a>&nbsp;are listed below:
<ul>
<li>Contest 1: Sept. 15 through Oct. 14</li>
<li>Contest 2: Oct. 15 through Nov. 14</li>
<li>Contest 3: Nov. 15 through Dec. 14</li>
</ul>
The last days to register for the remaining contests are at 9 a.m. ET on Nov. 7 and Dec. 8.
Read Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/events/24/11/42078635/exclusive-wall-street-meets-main-street-fintech-experts-weigh-in-on-retails-rise" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: Wall Street Meets Main Street — Fintech Experts Weigh In On Retail&#8217;s Rise</a>
Contest Prizes: Participants have the chance to win as much as $30,000 in cash and prizes during the contests. Travel and expenses will not be paid for the NYSE tour prizes.
Here are the prizes for the World Championship of Trading.
Contest 1:
<ul>
<li>First Place: $5,000 cash, lifetime of&nbsp;<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/feature/newsfeed/?gspk=bHVrZWphY29iaTUzNDg&amp;gsxid=tdEE0VrK8Jeg&amp;ref=lukejacobi5348" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro Essential,</a>&nbsp;tour of the NYSE and lunch for two at the NYSE.</li>
<li>Second Place: $1,000 cash, one year of Benzinga Pro Essential.</li>
<li>Third Place: $500 cash, one year of Benzinga Pro Essential.</li>
</ul>
Contest 2:
<ul>
<li>First Place: $10,000 cash, lifetime of Benzinga Pro Essential, tour of the NYSE and lunch for two at the NYSE.</li>
<li>Second Place: $2,000 cash, one year of Benzinga Pro Essential.</li>
<li>Third Place: $1,000 cash, one year of Benzinga Pro Essential.</li>
</ul>
Contest 3:
<ul>
<li>First Place: $15,000 cash, lifetime of Benzinga Pro Essential, tour of the NYSE and lunch for two at the NYSE.</li>
</ul>
Find out more at the&nbsp;<a href="https://benzingapartners.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=467&amp;aff_id=1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Championship of Trading site</a>.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/11/41718416/exclusive-top-20-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-in-october-2024-where-do-tesla-nvidia-apple-d" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: Top 20 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro In October 2024 — Where Do Tesla, Nvidia, Apple, DJT Stock Rank?</a></li>
</ul>
The World Championship of Trading (the "Contest") involves the assembling and managing of a fantasy stock portfolio and not actual trading results. Contest information and results (collectively, the &#8220;Content&#8221;) have been made available for information and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered trading or investment advice or a recommendation as to any security. All trading involves risks. Neither Benzinga nor TradeZero make any representations and warranties with respect to the accuracy of the Content, nor do they accept any liability which may arise directly or indirectly from use of the Content. See the&nbsp;<a href="https://tradezeroedge.com/world-championship-of-trading/contest-instructions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Contest's official rules</a>&nbsp;for all terms and conditions. TradeZero provides self-directed brokerage accounts to customers through its operating affiliates: TradeZero America, Inc., a United States broker dealer, registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC); TradeZero, Inc., a Bahamian broker dealer, registered with the Securities Commission of the Bahamas; and TradeZero Canada Securities ULC, a Canadian broker dealer, member firm of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) and member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF). If you have any specific questions about TradeZero&#8217;s brokerage services, please reach out to the TradeZero broker dealer in your jurisdiction.

Exclusives

Benzinga World Championship Of Trading: Third And Final Contest Top Trader Up Over 2,000%, It's Not Too Late To Join, Compete For $15,000

Large holders of Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) have been making significant moves, with Dogecoin whales recently buying up 550 million DOGE tokens, valued at $214.5 million, in one day.
What Happened: The transactions, recorded on blockchain monitoring services, highlight the growing activity among Dogecoin's biggest investors. 
Blockchain experts note that such whale movements often signal potential market shifts, as these transactions can precede either price rallies or sell-offs. 
The transfers occurred amid a period of relative stability for Dogecoin, trading near $0.056 at the time of the transactions.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dogecoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dogecoin</a> whales have bought more than 550 million <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24DOGE&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$DOGE</a> over the past week, worth around $214.5 million! <a href="https://t.co/0eHqQGL3LO">pic.twitter.com/0eHqQGL3LO</a>
&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1859560640869806344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/08/40429878/dogecoins-active-users-on-the-rise-will-this-impact-doge-price">Dogecoin&#8217;s Active Users On The Rise, Will This Impact DOGE Price?</a></figcaption></figure>
Why It Matters: Historically, Dogecoin's price has been highly susceptible to whale activity, prompting heightened attention from the crypto community.
Dogecoin, created in 2013 as a joke, has gained significant traction thanks to endorsements from figures like Elon Musk. Despite its origins, the cryptocurrency now ranks among the top digital assets by market capitalization.
The meme coin remains a popular choice for retail investors, although its price volatility has led to mixed opinions among analysts. This latest whale activity underscores the ongoing interest in Dogecoin among major holders, hinting at potential shifts in market sentiment.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/07/39871566/massive-dogecoin-moves-worth-50-million-each-spotted-on-robinhood" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Massive Dogecoin Moves Worth $50 Million Each Spotted On Robinhood</a>

Dogecoin Whales Move $214.5M In A Single Day, Sparking Speculation

Benzinga examined the prospects for<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas"> many investors&#8217; favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here&#8217;s a look at some of our top stories.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained around 2% this week, with the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq each rising approximately 1.7%. Despite NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) surpassing analysts&#8217; expectations for Q3 earnings and revenue, its stock traded flat, leaving the market&#8217;s rebound to unfold independently of its AI momentum. 
Meanwhile, Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) faced a steep decline after the DOJ pushed for Chrome&#8217;s divestiture, erasing over $120 billion in market cap on Thursday. 
On the economic side, November saw strong U.S. private sector growth, with S&amp;P Global&#8217;s PMI showing the services sector expanding at its fastest rate since March 2022, while inflation pressures eased, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42148498/wall-street-rebounds-without-its-ai-darlings-boost-king-dollar-maintains-dominance-while-bitcoin-defies-gravity-this-week-in-the-markets">aiding the Fed&#8217;s outlook.</a>
Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week&#8217;s most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bulls</h3>
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42072727/exclusive-bitcoin-advocate-anthony-pompliano-says-coinbase-is-similar-to-apple-has-something-that-cant-be-bought">EXCLUSIVE: Bitcoin Advocate Anthony Pompliano Says Coinbase Is Similar To Apple, &#8216;Has Something That Can&#8217;t Be Bought&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/chris-katje">Chris Katje</a>, features Anthony Pompliano comparing Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) to Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), emphasizing its trust and brand power as a leading crypto platform attracting new investors during a pro-crypto administration.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42097462/dogecoin-millionaire-shares-50-million-meme-coin-strategy-for-2025-pepe-brett-are-this-bull-runs-doge-shiba-inu">Dogecoin Millionaire Shares $50 Million Meme Coin Strategy For 2025: Pepe, Brett Are This Bull Run&#8217;s DOGE, Shiba Inu</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/khyathi-dalal">Khyathi Dalal</a>, details Glauber Contessoto&#8216;s diversified $50 million investment strategy for 2025. The strategy predicts that Pepe (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">PEPE</a>) and Brett (CRYPTO: BRT) will dominate the next bull market, following the success patterns of Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) and Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>).
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42102652/michael-saylors-microstrategy-takes-wall-street-by-storm-becomes-second-most-traded-stock-after-nvidia">Michael Saylor&#8217;s MicroStrategy Takes Wall Street By Storm, Becomes Second-Most Traded Stock After Nvidia</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/aniket-verma">Aniket Verma</a>, highlights MicroStrategy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) surpassing trading volumes of Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and Apple Inc., finishing second to NVIDIA Corp. after a surge in Bitcoin-related (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) market interest.
For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following:
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42082542/supermicro-computer-shares-soar-32-as-it-avoids-nasdaq-delisting-but-analysts-are-not-convinced-heres-whats-coming-next-for-smci">Super Micro Computer Shares Soar 32% As It Avoids Getting Booted Off Nasdaq, But Analysts Are Not Convinced: Here&#8217;s What&#8217;s Coming Next For SMCI</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/11/42047265/gamestop-adds-nat-turner-to-board-does-the-move-show-bigger-bet-on-trading-cards-grading">GameStop Adds Nat Turner To Board: Does The Move Show Bigger Bet On Trading Cards, Grading?</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42096407/microsoft-one-of-the-most-compelling-investment-opportunities-says-goldman-sachs">Microsoft &#8216;One Of The Most Compelling Investment Opportunities,&#8217; Says Goldman Sachs</a>
The Bears
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/11/42094649/nvidia-stock-historically-drops-in-december-after-q3-earnings">Nvidia Stock Historically Drops In December After Q3 Earnings</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/piero-cingari">Piero Cingari</a>, highlights that NVIDIA Corp. has historically struggled in December, with an average 1.84% decline and only 40% of Decembers closing positive since 2014, despite strong Q3 earnings. 
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/11/42094958/netflix-faces-class-action-lawsuit-over-streaming-crashes-during-jake-paul-mike-tyson-fight">Netflix Faces Class-Action Lawsuit Over Streaming Crashes During Jake Paul, Mike Tyson Fight</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/chris-katje">Chris Katje</a>, reports on Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) facing legal action for technical issues during the Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson boxing match, which attracted over 108 million viewers, making it the most-streamed sporting event ever but resulting in service disruptions that sparked subscriber lawsuits.
&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42097477/muddy-waters-carson-block-is-betting-against-elf-beauty-short-seller-believes-company-is-overstating-revenue-earnings-major-red-flag">Muddy Waters&#8217; Carson Block Bets Against E.L.F. Beauty: Short Seller Says Retailer&#8217;s Financials Show &#8216;Major Red Flag&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/adam-eckert">Adam Eckert</a>, details Carson Block&#8216;s short position against e.l.f. Beauty Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ELF#NYSE">ELF</a>), alleging inflated revenues of $135-$190 million over three quarters, citing discrepancies between reported growth and U.S. Customs import data.
For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts:
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42097545/feds-bowman-warns-on-inflation-risks-signals-neutral-rate-may-be-closer">Fed&#8217;s Bowman Warns On Inflation, Says Neutral Interest Rates May Be Closer &#8216;Than We Currently Think&#8217;</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/11/42085436/target-q3-earnings-supply-chain-chaos-hits-bottomline-slashes-annual-profit-outlook-stock-tanks">Target Q3 Earnings: Supply Chain Chaos Hits Bottomline, Slashes Annual Profit Outlook, Stock Tanks</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42127938/bitcoin-analyst-warns-of-4-6-flash-crashes-before-year-end-as-it-inches-closer-to-100k-thats-the-moment-altcoins-shoot-off">Bitcoin Analyst Warns Of &#8216;4-6 Flash Crashes&#8217; Before Year-End As It Inches Closer To $100K: That&#8217;s The Moment Altcoins &#8216;Shoot Off&#8217;</a>
Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following<a href="https://twitter.com/Benzinga"> Benzinga</a><a href="http://twitter.com/Benzinga"> on Twitter</a>.

Long Ideas

Short Sellers

Short Ideas

Trading Ideas

$PEPE

$SHIB

COIN

NFLX

NVDA

Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Coinbase, MicroStrategy, Nvidia, e.l.f. Beauty - And Dogecoin Millionaire Predicts 2025 Meme Kings

A recent <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&amp;v=d5MfEgRmnvQ">call</a> on The Ramsey Show featured a woman who <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/42044634/653125">opened up to Dave Ramsey</a>, admitting that despite filing for bankruptcy in 2019, she's back in debt again – to the tune of $118,000, excluding the mortgage – and her husband is completely unaware of the mess they're in.
Don't Miss:
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<li>The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Cost of Keeping up Appearances</h2>
&#8220;We are the poster child of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/08/40431868/dave-ramsey-warns-the-one-money-error-youre-making-that-could-derail-your-financial-future">trying to impress people</a>,&#8221; the caller confessed. After buying a new house, she felt pressured to fill it with &#8220;nice things,&#8221; but this urge spiraled into financial chaos, leading her to open a staggering 18 credit cards to fund the lifestyle she thought they needed to maintain.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Jo and her husband filed bankruptcy five years ago. Now Jo has opened up 18 credit cards and is back in $118,000 of debt, and her husband is not involved in their finances. She called in to The Ramsey Show for advice. <a href="https://t.co/pZHyYIhkXN">pic.twitter.com/pZHyYIhkXN</a>
&mdash; Dave Ramsey (@DaveRamsey) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaveRamsey/status/1858551622634226154?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 18, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Her husband, who earns $35,000 a year, has no idea about their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/08/40512938/dave-ramseys-blunt-advice-your-finances-are-80-behavior-avoid-this-one-costly-mistake">financial issues</a> because, as she explained, &#8220;He doesn&#8217;t even have access [to our finances].&#8221; She takes home $125,000 annually, plus another $15,000 from a side hustle, yet her spending habits have left them drowning in debt – all because of a desire to project an image of success.
The caller revealed that the $118,000 in debt was spread across various sources. She owes $1,300 to the IRS and $9,500 is tied up in "pay in 4" payment plans like PayPal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NASDAQ">PYPL</a>) and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/37357053/openai-backed-swedish-bnpl-company-klarnas-ai-bot-cuts-repeat-queries-by-25-boosting-profits-by-40m">Klarna</a>. The biggest portion of the debt –$116,000 – comes from online personal loans through <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/prosper-review">platforms like Prosper</a>. On top of that, they have a $40,000 car loan and $5,500 in credit card balances.
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This complicated mix of debt sources shows how far the situation has spiraled out of control. The buildup of loans, payment plans and credit lines has resulted in an impossible financial mess. The car loan by itself is already a big problem and with all the high-interest loans and credit card debt added on top, it&#8217;s really hard for them to make any progress without making big changes.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Wake-Up Call</h2>
Like always, Ramsey didn&#8217;t sugarcoat his advice. &#8220;You&#8217;re not going to be free or heal by yourself,&#8221; he told her. The key, according to Ramsey, is teamwork. &#8220;We need two things relationally: one is you go to him and say, &#8216;Honey, we&#8217;re in a mess – again – because I didn&#8217;t say no and you weren&#8217;t involved.'&#8221;
The caller admitted that her spending habits were deeply connected to her need for validation, saying, &#8220;It comes from my childhood,&#8221; but that didn&#8217;t sway Ramsey, who responded with his signature tough love: &#8220;You&#8217;re too dead gum old and rich income-wise to act like a 14-year-old girl that needs affirmation. It&#8217;s time to be a grown woman.&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Plan to Move Forward</h2>
To get out of this financial hole, Ramsey laid out a clear but intense plan: They need to budget every month together, sell everything that isn't necessary and dramatically cut their lifestyle. &#8220;Sell everything, everything not tied down,&#8221; he said. The goal is to adopt what Ramsey called &#8220;scorched earth&#8221; living for 18 months – essentially, to live as frugally as possible and funnel every available dollar toward paying off the debt.
One of the biggest takeaways was the importance of not trying to impress others. According to Ramsey, affluent people frequently get to the point where they &#8220;don't give a crap what anybody thinks.&#8221; And for this caller, ending the debt cycle requires learning to disregard the opinions of others. &#8220;You've got to practice not having nice stuff and have people see you,&#8221; added co-host Dr. John Delony, encouraging her to confront her fears about appearances.
Image via Shutterstock
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