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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Do Kwon Pleads Not Guilty In U.S. Courtroom&nbsp;</h2>
According to a Reuters report, Do Kwon, co-founder of Terraform Labs, the incubator of TerraUSD (CRYPTO:USTC) and Luna (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">LUNC</a>) pleaded not guilty on Thursday to criminal fraud charges in a U.S. court.&nbsp;
Kwon was handed over to U.S. law enforcement officers on Tuesday at an airport in Montenegro and extradited to the United States to face the charges.
Federal prosecutors in Manhattan <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/montenegro-police-arrest-suspected-former-ceo-terraform-labs-interior-minister-2023-03-23/">charged</a> Kwon with securities fraud, wire fraud, commodities fraud and money laundering conspiracy related to the collapse of Luna and TerraUSD in 2022, which resulted in an estimated $40 billion loss.
Read more here: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/42773042/terra-lunas-do-kwon-to-face-criminal-fraud-charges-in-us">Terra Luna&#8217;s Do Kwon To Face Criminal Fraud Charges In US</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">DOJ Announces $4.3 Billion In Total Distributions To Madoff Ponzi Scheme Victims</h2>
The Justice Department announced on Monday that the Madoff Victim Fund began its tenth and final distribution of over $131.4 million to victims of the Bernard Madoff fraud scheme.&nbsp;
The DOJ said the latest payments will be sent to more than 23,000 victims, bringing the total to over 40,000 victims in the Madoff scheme having recovered 93.71% of their fraud losses. In total, the MVF has paid over $4.3 billion from forfeited funds to 40,930 victims for losses suffered due to the collapse of &nbsp;Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities LLC.&nbsp;
"Today's distribution represents an unprecedented conclusion of victim compensation from civil forfeiture actions related to the Madoff scheme with more than $4 billion repaid to over 40,000 victims," said Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy of the FBI New York Field Office.&nbsp;
"These victims implicitly trusted Madoff with their investments only to ultimately lose significant monies to his selfish plan. With the Justice Department's steadfast support, the FBI will continue its tireless seizure of assets from criminals who steal from others and seek to recover those assets for victim losses," Dennehy added. 
Read Next: 
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Financial Crime Weekly: $4.3 Billion Paid To Bernie Madoff Ponzi Scheme Victims, Do Kwon Pleads Not Guilty

The profitability of Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) could be severely impacted under the second Trump administration, with a potential 40% decrease.
What Happened: After a less than stellar Q4 sales performance and a 6% decrease in Tesla&#8217;s shares, JPMorgan analysts foresee more hurdles in the company&#8217;s path. 
The bank&#8217;s predictions are based on President elect Donald Trump&#8216;s plans to do away with EV tax credits and subsidies, which have made Tesla&#8217;s vehicles more affordable to consumers.
For the first time, Tesla reported a drop in annual vehicle sales, with approximately 1.79 million cars sold in 2024, a slight decrease from the record 1.8 million sales in 2023. 
This comes in the wake of a broader slowdown in the EV market as consumer preferences shift towards more economical hybrids.
JPMorgan analyst Ryan Brinkman expressed doubt about Tesla&#8217;s future prospects, stating that the company does not seem poised to dominate the global auto industry during the transition to electrification.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42715951/trump-backs-immigration-visas-musk-praises-his-stance-and-says-rising-tide-lifts-all-boats">Trump Backs Immigration Visas, Musk Praises His Stance and Says &#8216;Rising Tide Lifts All Boats&#8217;</a>
&#8220;Tesla does not appear to us on track to dominate the global auto industry amidst the electrification transition, which we view as only the starting point for present valuation,&#8221; Brinkman wrote in a note on Friday and as quoted <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-profit-could-shrink-under-trump-policies-jpmorgan-2025-1">by </a>Insider.
Brinkman also contradicted Elon Musk&#8217;s assertion that the removal of EV subsidies would be beneficial for Tesla. He projected that Tesla could lose around $3.2 billion due to regulatory changes under Trump, as government subsidies constitute a significant part of Tesla&#8217;s revenue.
&#8220;The slowing of deliveries, even ahead of a likely subsidy removal, we think has the potential to refocus investors on the deterioration in deliveries, revenue, gross profit, EBIT, EPS, and FCF estimates across all periods,&#8221; Brinkman added in the note. 
Despite these obstacles, Tesla shares experienced a slight recovery on Friday morning, rising by about 4%.
Why It Matters: The potential elimination of EV tax credits and subsidies under the Trump administration could have a significant impact on Tesla&#8217;s profitability. 
These incentives have played a crucial role in making Tesla&#8217;s vehicles more affordable, thereby driving sales. The shift in consumer preferences towards more affordable hybrids could further exacerbate Tesla&#8217;s challenges. 
The company&#8217;s ability to navigate these changes and maintain its market position will be crucial in the coming years.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42714402/elon-musk-weighs-in-on-maga-divide-urges-gop-to-purge-contemptible-fools" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Weighs In On MAGA Divide, Urges GOP To Purge ‘Contemptible Fools'</a>

News

TSLA

Here's How Trump Could Wipe Out 40% of Tesla's Profits After Taking Office, According To JPMorgan Analyst

Jan. 1, 2025, marks the first possible birthdate for Generation Beta. It&#8217;s also a unique opportunity for financial advisors to guide new parents through comprehensive long-term planning, especially as Prudential Financial&#8217;s latest research shows that 58% of current and future parents believe Generation Beta<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/retirement"> may never retire.</a>
With 80% of Americans holding that retirement planning should begin at birth, financial advisors should start working with parents and prospective parents of Generation Beta as soon as possible.
The financial landscape these children, and their parents, will navigate differs significantly from previous generations. According to Prudential&#8217;s <a href="https://www.investmentnews.com/industry-news/generation-beta-has-arrived-planning-for-their-financial-future-should-start-now/258752">findings</a>, 86% of respondents anticipate these children will work in yet-to-be-created professions, while increased life expectancy could dramatically alter traditional retirement trajectories.
These shifting dynamics demand that advisors expand their traditional planning approach. While new parents typically focus on immediate concerns like healthcare coverage and life insurance, financial professionals must help them develop more comprehensive strategies. This includes creating flexible investment frameworks that can adapt to evolving career patterns and potentially extended lifespans.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/01/42793786/deal-dispatch-vera-bradley-party-city-modells-interest">Deal Dispatch: Vera Bradley Is A Mixed Bag, Modell&#8217;s Ex-CEO Explores Party City</a>
Brandon Goldstein, ChFC, a financial planner with Prudential Financial, emphasizes the importance of immediate action: &#8220;While you can&#8217;t predict the future, you can plan for it from day one.&#8221; This perspective underscores the need for advisors to guide families in reassessing budgets, establishing long-term savings goals, and accounting for rising costs across multiple decades.
The power of early planning becomes evident through Prudential&#8217;s Beta Baby Bonus initiative, which demonstrates how a modest initial investment of $150 &#8211; which the company is giving to any baby born on Jan. 1, 2025 &#8211; could grow to $100,000 over 70 years. This illustrates the crucial role advisors play in helping families understand and harness long-term compound growth.
Financial professionals must proactively address these planning considerations with new parents, ensuring Generation Beta&#8217;s financial future begins with informed, strategic decisions. The challenge lies not just in traditional retirement planning, but in preparing for a fundamentally different financial future that may require new planning paradigms and investment approaches.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/01/42794980/tesla-stock-up-62-5-in-2024-how-it-compares-to-gains-since-2010-ipo">Tesla Stock Up 62.5% In 2024: How It Compares To Gains Since 2010 IPO</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Financial Advisors

New Generation Beta Brings Fresh Financial Planning Challenges, Opportunities

According to a November Quartz article, Tesla is now worth more than GM, Ford, Toyota and almost every other car company combined. Hard to believe, right? Especially when you consider that back in 2013, Tesla was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/40815855/elon-musks-76-year-old-mom-couldnt-afford-to-buy-him-coco-puffs-now-hes-the-richest-man-in-the-w">so broke that Elon Musk</a> came close to selling it to Google.
The deal? A tidy $6 billion up-front plus $5 billion for factory expansions. But in true Musk fashion, he pulled the plug at the last second – not out of arrogance but because Tesla's fortunes reversed practically overnight.
Don't Miss:
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<li>The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gameflip"> for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market.</a></li>
<li>‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">You can invest today for just $0.26/share with a $1000 minimum.</a></li>
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According to Ashlee Vance's biography Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX and the Quest for a Fantastic Future, Tesla's situation in early 2013 was dire. The company had just two weeks of cash left, preorders weren't turning into sales and word-of-mouth for the Model S wasn't great. Customers complained about design flaws like stubborn door handles and ugly seams in sun visors. To make matters worse, some Tesla executives had kept the full scope of the crisis from Musk.
When Musk found out, he fired key senior staff, promoted junior employees he believed had more drive and even called in Jerome Guillen, a Daimler executive, to revamp Tesla's repair centers. Musk then issued a companywide mandate: "If we don't deliver these cars, we are f&#x2A;&#x2A;&#x2A;ed. So I don't care what job you were doing. Your new job is delivering cars."
Even with these drastic measures, Tesla's future looked bleak. Musk shut down the factory temporarily and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42154628/larry-page-google-co-founder-said-hed-leave-his-fortune-to-elon-musk-over-charity-because-of-his-plans-to-go-to-mars-to-back-up-humanity">approached Larry Page</a>, Google's cofounder, with a lifeline deal.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elon-musk-told-the-u-n-if-they-could-show-a-plan-for-ending-world-hunger-hed-donate-6-billion-i-will-sell-tesla-stock-right-now-and-do-it">Elon Musk Told The U.N. If They Could Show A Plan For Ending World Hunger He'd Donate $6 Billion – ‘I Will Sell Tesla Stock Right Now And Do It'</a>
Musk and Page, already friends, hashed out terms that would keep Tesla alive. According to Vance, the agreement included several key points:
<ul>
<li>Google would buy Tesla for $6 billion.</li>
<li>It would allocate $5 billion for factory expansions.</li>
<li>Tesla would remain an independent brand and Musk would stay on as CEO for up to eight years or until Tesla launched its third-generation vehicle.</li>
</ul>
The deal seemed nearly finalized, with lawyers drafting the paperwork, but then Tesla's fortunes made a dramatic U-turn.
In Q1 2013, Tesla experienced a sudden surge in Model S sales. This stabilized the company's cash flow and allowed Tesla to post its first quarterly profit of $11 million. The news sent Tesla's stock price soaring, which enabled the company to repay its $465 million loan from the U.S. Department of Energy earlier than expected.
With Tesla's newfound financial health, Musk called off the deal with Google. "He no longer needed a savior," Vance wrote in the book.&nbsp;
Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a>
Had the deal gone through, Tesla's trajectory – and perhaps Google's – might have looked entirely different. While Google pursued car-related ambitions, including autonomous driving technologies, it's hard to imagine it achieving Tesla's cultural and market dominance.
Fast forward to 2024 and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/11/41866041/if-you-want-a-new-tesla-cybertruck-you-can-get-it-built-and-delivered-in-10-days-thats-not-a-good-thing-for-the-ev-company">Tesla's value has skyrocketed.</a> Its market cap now exceeds $1.35 trillion, with stock prices up over 870% in the past five years. The company is a global leader in electric vehicles and renewable energy. Musk's decision to keep Tesla independent during its darkest days is seen as one of the most pivotal moments in its history.
In hindsight, Google may have missed out on one of the century's most transformative companies, but for Musk, the decision to stay the course solidified Tesla as more than just a car company. It became a movement – one that nearly didn't happen.
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<li>If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?</li>
</ul>

Startups

Elon Musk Nearly Sold Struggling Tesla To Google For $6 Billion – But When He 'No Longer Needed A Savior,' The Deal Was Called Off

Mark Cuban, billionaire investor and part-owner of the Dallas Mavericks, recently appeared on the Club Shay Shay <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oHeh5vH2CGA">podcast</a> to share his advice for NBA players and millionaire athletes on managing wealth. Cuban didn't sugarcoat anything as he talked about bad investments and smarter ways to grow wealth.
His advice was specifically for high-earning athletes or entrepreneurs looking for ways to safeguard their wealth and generate passive income, but it can be applied to anyone. Here are Cuban's top strategies – including why you should steer clear of certain industries and consider alternatives like Dividend Kings and fractional real estate.
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<li>Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/1milsaved"> The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Rap, Restaurants and Liquor Companies are Bad Bets</h2>
Cuban explicitly advises against investing in trendy but risky ventures such as rap labels, restaurants, clothing lines and liquor companies. Here's his reasoning:
<ol>
<li>High failure rates: These industries are notoriously challenging to succeed in due to low barriers to entry and oversaturated markets. Many try but few thrive.</li>
<li>Feelings get in the way: Athletes often invest in these businesses because they love them or feel loyal to someone, but that can lead to poor decisions.</li>
<li>Unreliable returns: Most of these businesses need a lot of attention and rarely make steady money. That's a problem if you're already busy with your career.</li>
</ol>
Instead, Cuban encourages athletes to focus on investments that are low-risk, high-reward and capable of generating steady, passive income over time. &#8220;If I&#8217;m just a two-way player, I&#8217;m living like a student because you don't know how long it's going to last. It's hard when you first get money to understand what it is, how much you have,&#8221; he said.&nbsp;
See Also: The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gameflip"> for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dividend Kings: The Gold Standard of Passive Income</h2>
&#8220;You hear about people losing it all, so I tell guys all the time, &#8216;Save your money.&#8217; You know, one broken ankle and it's over,&#8221; Mark shared. So, for those seeking reliable passive income, Cuban would likely approve of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/11/42036427/could-these-three-passive-income-stocks-become-dividend-kings-in-the-near-future">Dividend Kings</a> – stocks from companies with a 50+ year history of increasing dividend payouts. Here's why they're worth it:
<ul>
<li>Stability and growth: Dividend Kings represent established companies with a proven track record of weathering economic storms while increasing payouts.</li>
<li>Passive income: By reinvesting dividends, you can compound your earnings over time or choose to use the payouts as a steady income source.</li>
<li>Long-term security: Big companies like Coca-Cola, Procter &amp; Gamble and Johnson &amp; Johnson are examples. These are solid picks if you want to grow your money over time.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Get Started</h2>
<ol>
<li>Open a brokerage account: Sign up on platforms like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/fidelity-investments-review">Fidelity</a>, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/vanguard-review">Vanguard</a> or <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/robinhood-review">Robinhood</a> to start buying stocks.</li>
<li>Reinvest dividends: Set up automatic reinvestment to maximize the power of compounding.</li>
<li>Diversify: Avoid putting all your eggs in one basket by building a portfolio across different industries.</li>
</ol>
Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fractional Real Estate: Ownership Without the Headaches</h2>
Not a fan of the stock market? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/fractional-real-estate-investing">Fractional real estate</a> is another way to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-earn-passive-income-in-real-estate-with-1000">earn passive income</a>. This innovative investment model lets you own shares of high-value properties without the responsibilities of full ownership.
<ul>
<li>Accessible ownership: Platforms like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/fundrise-review">Fundrise</a> and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/roofstock-review">Roofstock</a> allow investors to buy into properties with as little as $100, making it easier for athletes to diversify their portfolios.</li>
<li>Steady cash flow: Many properties earn rental income, which is shared with investors as passive income.</li>
<li>Long-term appreciation: Over time, properties usually increase in value, giving you both rent and profit if you sell.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Get Started</h2>
<ol>
<li>Choose a platform: Research reputable platforms offering fractional real estate investments.</li>
<li>Understand the terms: Look into fees, expected returns and holding periods before committing.</li>
<li>Build a balanced portfolio: Combine fractional real estate with other investment types to reduce risk.</li>
</ol>
Ultimately, Cuban said that if he's making 40-60 million, he's "hiring somebody that knows what they&#8217;re doing, but it ain't going to be one of my friends. Your friend wants to be your friend. My money guy needs to make me money."
Read Next:
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<li>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.26/share!</a></li>
<li>If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?</li>
</ul>

'Don't Invest In Rap, Restaurant And Liquor Companies,' Says Mark Cuban. Here's His Advice To NBA Players And Other Millionaire Athletes

Billionaire investor Ray Dalio famously advised investors to increase their holdings in gold, warning of economic shifts.
What Happened: Dalio, who is recognized for his profound knowledge of economic history and market cycles, expressed his concerns about the future of the financial landscape in a 2012 speech.
Dalio believes that the current levels of government and corporate debt are unsustainable, and that aggressive central bank policies are devaluing currencies.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Slsh8dLPP8">Speaking</a> at the Council on Foreign Relations CEO Speaker Series in 2012, Dalio warned about a significant economic contraction and a restructuring of debt. He warned that the U.S. Treasury might be compelled to issue substantial amounts of debt, potentially exceeding available demand.
This could result in&nbsp;either significantly higher interest rates&nbsp;or extensive money printing by&nbsp;the Federal Reserve, which would further devalue the currency.
In light of these predictions, Dalio recommended a minimum 10-15% allocation to gold in investment portfolios. He sees gold as a vital diversifier and a hedge against currency devaluation and geopolitical uncertainties. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42380616/ray-dalio-reveals-his-three-step-strategy-for-success">Ray Dalio Reveals His Three-Step Strategy For Success</a>
&#8220;If you don&#8217;t own gold, you know neither history nor economics,&#8221; Dalio said, highlighting the metal&#8217;s vital importance in weathering the challenges of an uncertain economic future.
Dalio also warned against overdependence on traditional equity investments, suggesting that diminishing returns could be imminent for those overly invested in stocks and equity-like assets.
Why It Matters: The economic landscape is continually changing, and investors need to adapt their strategies to navigate these shifts successfully. 
Dalio&#8217;s 2012 warnings highlight the potential risks associated with current levels of debt and aggressive central bank policies. His recommendations provide investors with a potential strategy to mitigate these risks, emphasizing the importance of diversification and the role of gold as a hedge against currency devaluation and geopolitical uncertainties.
As such, his insights could play a crucial role in shaping investment strategies in the coming months.
Read Next
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Ray Dalio's Timeless Advice: 'If You Don't Own Gold, You Know Neither History Nor Economics'

Backers of President-elect Donald Trump have donated over $200 million for his inauguration, political activities, and future presidential library.
What Happened:&nbsp;The fundraising efforts have been extraordinary, with donors and corporations aiming&nbsp;to curry favor with Trump as he prepares for his second term. 
This financial backing emerges after numerous business leaders distanced themselves from the President-elect following the Capitol violence incited by his supporters four years ago this week.
Among the donors pledging support&nbsp;for the inaugural events are&nbsp;Pfizer,&nbsp;OpenAI,&nbsp;Amazon, and&nbsp;Meta, in addition to several cryptocurrency firms. The total funds raised for the inaugural committee are anticipated to exceed the record&nbsp;$107 million raised for his&nbsp;2017 inauguration.
According to a report <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/04/us/politics/trump-inaugural-donations.html">by</a> The New York Times, the fundraising surge also benefits a super PAC named Make America Great Again Inc. and its associated nonprofit group. Trump&#8217;s team intends to utilize these funds to bolster his agenda and support candidates who endorse it.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42804415/trump-targets-nyc-judges-and-e-jean-carroll-ahead-of-hush-money-case-sentencing">Trump Targets NYC Judges and E. Jean Carroll Ahead of Hush Money Case Sentencing</a>
Trump has proudly touted the fundraising success, asserting that he has&nbsp;raised more than $200 million&nbsp;since the election. His team has frequently emphasized the number of individuals eager to contribute to him following his election victory.
David Tamasi, a lobbyist who&nbsp;has fundraised for Trump, refuted the notion that corporations were donating to evade Trump's ire. However, he conceded that some donors might be attempting to compensate for their previous aloofness from the president-elect.
Why It Matters: This unprecedented fundraising effort underscores the enduring influence of Trump and the willingness of donors and corporations to align themselves with his administration, despite previous controversies. 
The funds raised will not only support the inauguration but also fuel Trump&#8217;s political operations and future presidential library, indicating a long-term investment in his political legacy. 
This development also highlights the role of corporate interests and their potential influence on political agendas.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38240111/unlike-his-behavior-in-e-jean-carroll-case-donald-trump-is-going-to-have-sit-there-in-upcoming-crimi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Unlike His Behavior In E. Jean Carroll Case, Donald Trump Is ‘Going To Have Sit There' In Upcoming Criminal Case, Says Ex-Prosecutor</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Politics

AMZN

Trump Supporters Kick in More Than $200 Million for Inauguration and Political Operations

The New Year&#8217;s Day Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas has put the spotlight on the data collection capabilities of Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/01/42757028/tesla-cybertruck-ignites-outside-trump-international-hotel-in-las-vegas">spurring a discussion on privacy rights</a>.
What Happened: The explosion took place&nbsp;in front of the Trump&nbsp;International Hotel. The data gathered by Tesla played a crucial role in aiding the police to trace the driver&#8217;s movements, thereby establishing that the explosion resulted from explosives in the truck, and not a vehicle malfunction.
However, this incident has prompted concerns about the extent of surveillance by automobile companies. Jodi Daniels, CEO of Red Clover Advisors, questioned the boundaries of such data accessibility, asking, &#8220;Where is the line?&#8221;
According to the report <a href="https://apnews.com/article/tesla-las-vegas-explosion-cybertruck-elon-musk-789dc864a0c138fd7c36ca8c94b0fbfd">by</a> The Associated Press, modern vehicles not only track locations but also have access to sensitive information like contacts, call logs, and texts due to cell phone syncing.
"You might want law enforcement to have the data to crack down on criminals, but can anyone have access to it?" said Daniels.
This extensive data collection has drawn criticism from privacy experts like David Choffnes, Executive Director&nbsp;of the Cybersecurity and Privacy&nbsp;Institute at Northeastern University, who cautioned about potential data misuse by companies.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42803560/trump-hotel-bombers-chilling-messages-unearthed-time-to-wake-up-fight-to-get-dems-out-of-fed-government-and-military-by-any-means">Trump Hotel Bomber&#8217;s Chilling Messages Unearthed: &#8216;TIME TO WAKE UP, Fight To Get Dems Out of Fed Government and Military by Any Means&#8217;</a>
"It reveals the kind of sweeping surveillance going on. When something bad happens, it's helpful, but it's a double edged sword. Companies that collect this data can abuse it," Choffnes told the outlet. 
Despite the privacy concerns,&nbsp;Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department&nbsp;Sheriff Kevin McMahill expressed appreciation to Elon Musk for the valuable information provided.
"I have to thank Elon Musk, specifically. He gave us quite a bit of additional information," he said. 
Sam Abuelsamid, an auto analyst at Telemetry Insight, voiced concerns over data handling by auto companies, stressing the importance of consumers having control over their data.
While Tesla&#8217;s privacy policy asserts that it adheres to strict rules for maintaining the privacy and security of names and information, the recent incident has ignited a discussion about the necessity for new national laws regulating car data.
Why It Matters: This incident underscores the dual-edged nature of data collection by auto companies. On one hand, it can aid in investigations and enhance safety measures. 
On the other, it raises serious privacy concerns. The debate over data privacy is not new, but incidents like these bring it to the forefront, highlighting the need for clear regulations and consumer control over personal data. 
As technology continues to evolve, so too must the laws that govern its use.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42714387/tech-titans-warm-up-to-donald-trump-who-says-everybody-wants-to-be-my-friend-claims-bill-gates-asked-to-come-to-mar-a-lago" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tech Titans Warm Up To Donald Trump, Who Says ‘Everybody Wants To Be My Friend,' Claims Bill Gates Asked To Come To Mar-a-Lago</a>

Tech

Tesla's Data Collection Proves Crucial in Cybertruck Explosion Probe, but Raises Privacy Questions: Is Your Car Spying on You?

As we usher in the new year, the mobility sector has been buzzing with noteworthy developments. From&nbsp;Lucid Group Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LCID#NASDAQ">LCID</a>) rolling out its Gravity SUV to&nbsp;Elon Musk&#8216;s clarification on the Cybertruck incident, the weekend was anything but quiet. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories.
Lucid Motors Begins Deliveries of Gravity SUV
Over the last weekend, Lucid Motors began delivering its latest electric vehicle, the Gravity SUV. The first customers received their vehicles and left the factory in a convoy from the company&#8217;s Casa Grande, Arizona facility.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42736433/lucid-starts-deliveries-of-tesla-model-x-competitor-gravity-suv">Read the full article here.</a>
Musk Sheds Light on Cybertruck Incident
Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Musk took to social media to clarify the recent explosion involving a Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel on New Year's Day. According to Musk, the explosion was caused by large fireworks or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented vehicle, not a design or functionality issue of the vehicle itself.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42757901/elon-musk-fireworks-or-explosive-device-caused-fatal-cybertruck-incident-at-las-vegas-trump-hotel-vehicle-was-rented">Read the full article here.</a>
MKBHD Sells Cybertruck, Endorses Rivian
Popular YouTuber and tech reviewer MKBHD, also known as Marques Brownlee, announced he has sold his Tesla Cybertruck and is now supporting rival automaker&nbsp;Rivian Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>).
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42731115/tesla-vs-rivian-mkbhd-sells-cybertruck-tells-elon-musk-tesla-could-crush-with-this-ev">Read the full article here.</a>
Tesla&#8217;s Sales Drop Divides Wall Street
After Tesla&#8217;s fourth-quarter delivery figures fell short of analyst consensus estimates, Wall Street is divided on the company&#8217;s outlook for 2025. Some analysts believe this could be a make-or-break year for the EV giant.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/42777950/teslas-first-sales-drop-splits-wall-street-2025-will-be-the-prove-it-year">Read the full article here.</a>
Musk Envisions Reusable Heat Shield for SpaceX&#8217;s Starship
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is confident about developing a fully reusable heat shield for the Starship next year. He also envisions uncrewed Starships landing on Mars in about 2 years and crewed Starships heading there in about 4 years.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42718758/elon-musk-says-starship-will-get-fully-reusable-heat-shield-in-2025-i-am-confident">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42763048/powering-up-charging-tesla-to-deploy-first-v4-superchargers-in-china-by-2025?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla To Deploy First V4 Superchargers In China By 2025: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Tesla
 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/anan-ashraf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anan Ashraf.</a>

LCID

RIVN

Lucid's Gravity SUV Rolls Out, Elon Musk On Tesla Cybertruck Blast Incident, And More: This Week In Mobility

President Joe Biden&#8216;s outgoing administration has proposed an $8 billion arms deal for Israel, marking one of the largest such deals since the Gaza war erupted in 2023.
What Happened: The proposed arms package encompasses thousands of bombs, missiles, and artillery shells. The deal, which was communicated to congressional officials last Friday, also includes the intended sale of precision munitions and air-to-air missiles.
The proposed sale is timed just weeks before Biden&#8217;s term ends and President-elect Donald Trump returns to office. This is the largest arms deal the U.S. government has proposed for Israel since the $20 billion weapons package approved earlier in August. The weapons are slated to start reaching Israel by 2025, <a href="https://www.wsj.com/politics/national-security/u-s-plans-8-billion-sale-of-arms-including-bombs-to-israel-6f184397?mod=hp_lead_pos1">reports</a> The Wall Street Journal.
Despite the strategic importance of the deal, it might face resistance from Democrats who have previously voiced concerns over the civilian casualties in the Gaza war. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41703497/iran-flexes-nuclear-muscle-threatens-us-with-tooth-breaking-retaliation">Iran Flexes Nuclear Muscle, Threatens US With &#8216;Tooth-Breaking&#8217; Retaliation</a>
The Biden administration has been under pressure to limit weapons sales to Israel to decrease civilian deaths and exert pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a cease-fire.
For the proposed sale to proceed, it still needs the green light from Congress. An&nbsp;administration official familiar with the&nbsp;deal stated, &#8220;We&nbsp;will continue to provide the&nbsp;capabilities necessary for Israel&#8217;s defense.&#8221;
Why It Matters: The proposed arms deal underscores the U.S.&#8217;s ongoing commitment to Israel&#8217;s defense, even amid international concerns over the Gaza conflict. 
The approval of this deal could significantly bolster Israel&#8217;s military capabilities, potentially altering the dynamics of the ongoing conflict. 
However, the deal&#8217;s potential impact on civilian casualties and the wider Middle East peace process will likely be a key consideration for Congress as it decides whether to approve the sale.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41196317/trump-urges-israel-to-target-iran-nuke-sites-hit-nuclear-first-and-worry-about-the-rest-later" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Urges Israel To Target Iran Nuke Sites: ‘Hit Nuclear First And Worry About The Rest Later'</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Global

Biden Proposes Massive $8 Billion Arms Deal, Including Bombs, for Israel

These eight mid-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Rigetti Computing, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGTI#NASDAQ">RGTI</a>) shares escalated 23.19% as the quantum computing sector saw increased interest.</li>
<li>VEON Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VEON#NASDAQ">VEON</a>) stock surged 17.03%. The company announced that Kyivstar inked an agreement with Starlink to introduce groundbreaking direct-to-cell <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42717832" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellite connectivity in Ukraine</a>.</li>
<li>NextDecade Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEXT#NASDAQ">NEXT</a>) stock jumped 16.90% on gains in crude oil and natural gas prices.</li>
<li>GDS Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GDS#NASDAQ">GDS</a>) stock increased 16.05% amid continued interest sparked by reports that the company is evaluating an initial public offering (IPO) for<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42710683" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> its data center assets in China</a>.</li>
<li>Acadia Healthcare Company, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACHC#NASDAQ">ACHC</a>) shares rose 14.79% on U.S. healthcare executives&#8217; bullish outlook for 2025.</li>
<li>Intuitive Machines, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUNR#NASDAQ">LUNR</a>) shares were up 13.89% last week. The stock was on the top ten trending list on WallStreetBets.</li>
<li>Banco BBVA Argentina (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBAR#NYSE">BBAR</a>) shares increased 11.81%, joining the ride in Argentina stocks.</li>
<li>Transportadora de Gas del Sur SA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGS#NYSE">TGS</a>) stock grew 11.93%, joining the ride in Argentina stocks.</li>
</ol>
Image via Shutterstock

Mid Cap

Movers

Trading Ideas

ACHC

BBAR

LUNR

RGTI

VEON

Rigetti Computing, VEON And Intuitive Machines Are Among Top Mid-Cap Gainers Last Week (Dec 30-Jan 3): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

A recent forecast by Galaxy Research concludes that Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) will reach a significant milestone in 2025. The cryptocurrency is expected to surge by over 170% from its current value.
What Happened: Galaxy Research&#8217;s Alex Thorn predicts that Dogecoin, the world&#8217;s largest and oldest memecoin, will hit $1&nbsp;for the first time in&nbsp;its history. 
&#8220;Dogecoin&nbsp;will finally hit $1, with&nbsp;the world&#8217;s&nbsp;largest and oldest memecoin touching&nbsp;a $100 billion market cap,&#8221; Thorn stated in a post on X.
<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">Dogecoin will finally hit $1, with the world's largest and oldest memecoin touching a $100bn market cap. However, the Dogecoin market cap will be eclipsed by the Department of Government Efficiency, which will identify and successfully enact cuts in amounts exceeding Dogecoin's… <a href="https://t.co/xcwRHhpMTn">pic.twitter.com/xcwRHhpMTn</a>
&mdash; Galaxy (@galaxyhq) <a href="https://twitter.com/galaxyhq/status/1874843548585005177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
At the time of the report, DOGE was trading at $0.37, marking an 11.7% increase&nbsp;in the last 24 hours.&nbsp;With a market cap of&nbsp;$55.47 billion, DOGE ranks as the seventh-largest crypto project.
On a related note, Charles Yu, another analyst at Galaxy Research, anticipates a decrease in market dominance by Tether&#8217;s stablecoin USDT. Yu expects other stablecoins, such as Circle's USDC, to&nbsp;gain more market share due&nbsp;to their attractive yields. 
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>
He suggests that the revenue from USDT reserves will be used to fund portfolio investments and marketing spend by stablecoin issuers, leading to a shift away from Tether and towards yield-bearing solutions.
Why It Matters: The predicted surge in Dogecoin&#8217;s value signifies a potential shift in the cryptocurrency market. If Dogecoin reaches the $1 mark, it could influence the dynamics of the cryptocurrency market, possibly leading to increased interest and investment in memecoins. 
Additionally, the forecasted decrease in Tether&#8217;s market dominance could lead to a more diversified stablecoin market, with other stablecoins like Circle's USDC gaining more traction due to their attractive yields. 
This could potentially reshape the stablecoin landscape, with more investors turning towards yield-bearing solutions.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42497156/dogecoin-poised-for-85-surge-as-whales-accumulate-130-billion-doge">Dogecoin Poised For 85% Surge As Whales Accumulate 130 Billion DOGE</a>

$DOGE

Dogecoin To Hit One Dollar Milestone This Year, Says This Analyst

The first weekend of 2025 has been a whirlwind in the world of finance, with cryptocurrencies making significant strides. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) is inching closer to the $100,000 mark, while Dogecoin has seen a surge, possibly due to Elon Musk&#8217;s influence. Meanwhile, Cathie Wood&#8217;s Ark Invest has been making strategic trades. Let&#8217;s dive into the details.
Bitcoin Nears $100,000, Dogecoin Soars
The cryptocurrency market has started the year on a high note, with Bitcoin prices nearing the $100,000 mark despite record ETF outflows. Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) has also seen a significant increase in value.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42795194/bitcoin-reclaims-98000-dogecoin-explodes-xrp-ethereum-surge-nothing-more-bullish-than-btc-prices-going-up-trader-says">Read the full article here.</a>
Bitcoin Could Reach $1 Million, Says Arthur Hayes
BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes has suggested that a change in US banking regulations could propel Bitcoin to a $1 million valuation. Hayes believes that if US banks receive an exemption from the supplementary leverage ratio (SLR) rule, it could lead to increased market liquidity, significantly boosting Bitcoin's value.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42802338/bitcoin-to-hit-1-million-arthur-hayes-says-another-signpost-has-appeared-amid-us-debt-concerns">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42758665/peter-thiels-bubble-theory-gains-relevance-as-bitcoin-hovers-around-95k-extremely-hard-to-define?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Thiel&#8217;s Bubble Theory Gains Relevance As Bitcoin Hovers Around $95K: &#8216;Extremely Hard To Define&#8217;</a>
Cathie Wood&#8217;s Ark Invest Makes Strategic Trades
Ark Invest, led by Cathie Wood, made significant trades involving Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>), Ark 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKB#BATS">ARKB</a>), and Quantum-Si Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSI#NASDAQ">QSI</a>). Ark Invest sold 20,332 shares of Palantir, aligning with Ark's recent trend of reducing its position in the hot AI stock.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42801940/cathie-woods-ark-invest-books-profits-on-hot-ai-stock-palantir-sells-bitcoin-etf-shares-as-btc-starts-2025-on-a-positive-note">Read the full article here.</a>
Elon Musk&#8217;s Influence on Dogecoin
The price of Dogecoin has increased, possibly due to social media platform X getting closer to launching payments in 2025. Elon Musk, who acquired the platform (formerly known as Twitter) for $44 billion in 2022, could be a significant factor in this surge.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/01/42794433/if-you-invested-1000-in-dogecoin-when-elon-musk-acquired-twitter-heres-how-much-youd-have-now">Read the full article here.</a>
Bitcoin Discussion at Mar-a-Lago
Bitcoin advocate Michael Saylor met with Eric Trump at Mar-a-Lago, sparking speculation that Bitcoin could have been a topic of discussion between the two influential figures. Saylor shared a photo of the meeting with the caption, &#8220;Bitcoin is on the menu at Mar-a-Lago.&#8221;
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42785039/michael-saylor-meets-eric-trump-says-bitcoin-is-on-the-menu-at-mar-a-lago">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/12/42749281/if-you-invested-1000-in-pepe-coin-when-elon-musk-shared-a-meme-earlier-this-year-heres-how-much-youd-have-today?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">If You Invested $1,000 In Pepe Coin When Elon Musk Shared A Meme Earlier This Year, Here&#8217;s How Much You&#8217;d Have</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
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>

$BTC

ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF ARK 21Shares Bitcoin ETF

ARKB

PLTR

Bitcoin's Bullish Run, Cathie Wood's Trades, And Elon Musk's Dogecoin Influence: This Week In Crypto

These nine large-cap stocks were the worst performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Carvana Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVNA#NYSE">CVNA</a>) stock plummeted 20.93%. Short-seller Hindenburg Research&#8216;s critical report intensified bearish sentiment, describing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42784518" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carvana&#8217;s turnaround as a &#8220;mirage.</a>&#8221; </li>
<li>SoFi Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOFI#NASDAQ">SOFI</a>) shares declined 10.60% after Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods downgraded the stock from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SOfi/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Market Perform to Underperform</a>.</li>
<li>Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YUMC#NYSE">YUMC</a>) shares fell 10.40%.</li>
<li>Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) shares tumbled 9.62% after the company disclosed fourth-quarter <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42766117" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">production and delivery figures</a>. Analysts revised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42786667" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Kinsale Capital Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KNSL#NYSE">KNSL</a>) shares dipped 9.45% after JP Morgan cut its price forecast <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/knsl/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on the stock from $415 to $412</a>.</li>
<li>Brown Forman Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BF#NYSE">BF</a>) shares decreased 8.20% last week after U.S. Surgeon General Murthy issued an advisory warning alcohol consumption could raise cancer risk.</li>
<li>Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCOM#NASDAQ">TCOM</a>) stock was down 7.47%. Citigroup raised its price forecast <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/tcom/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on the stock from $73 to $78</a>.</li>
<li>Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FMX#NYSE">FMX</a>) stock lost 7.47% last week after U.S. Surgeon General Murthy issued an advisory warning alcohol consumption could raise cancer risk.</li>
<li>Aurora Innovation, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AUR#NASDAQ">AUR</a>) stock fell 9.47%.</li>
</ol>
Image via Tesla

Large Cap

BF/A

BF/B

CVNA

Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. De C.V.

KNSL

SOFI

TCOM

YUMC

Tesla, SoFi Technologies And Alcohol Stocks Were Among Top Large Cap Losers Last Week (Dec 30-Jan 3): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

These ten large-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Rivian Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) shares escalated 17.45% after the company disclosed its production and delivery figures for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42786671" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth quarter and full-year 2024</a>.</li>
<li>FTAI Aviation Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTAI#NASDAQ">FTAI</a>) stock surged 16.59% after the company launched a strategic capital initiative in partnership <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42739532" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">with institutional investors</a>.</li>
<li>Vistra Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VST#NYSE">VST</a>) shares jumped 12.66% after UBS raised its price forecast on<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vst/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the stock from $161 to $174</a>.</li>
<li>Mobileye Global Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MBLY#NASDAQ">MBLY</a>) shares rose 11.45%.</li>
<li>Equinor ASA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQNR#NYSE">EQNR</a>) stock surged 11.06% after the company announced it had received $3B in financing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42766874" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for its U.S. Empire Wind 1 project</a>.</li>
<li>Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CEG#NASDAQ">CEG</a>) shares increased 10.39% after the company announced it won $1 billion in combined contracts from the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42770600" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. General Services Administration</a>.</li>
<li>Ecopetrol S.A. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EC#NYSE">EC</a>) stock was up 9.40% after the company confirmed an agreement with Repsol to purchase its interest in the Exploration and Production Contract <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42750775" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(E&amp;P Contract) for Block CPO-09</a>.</li>
<li>Permian Resources Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PR#NYSE">PR</a>) shares upped 9.16%.</li>
<li>Devon Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVN#NYSE">DVN</a>) stock increased 9.06%.</li>
<li>Arm Holdings plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) stock gained 8.78% last week, continuing the momentum of 2024&#8217;s rally.</li>
</ol>
Photo Courtesy of Rivian

COKE

EQNR

FTAI

MBLY

Rivian, Mobileye And Arm Are Among Top Large Cap Gainers Last Week (Dec 30-Jan 3): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

As we step into the new year, the tech world continues to be abuzz with artificial intelligence (AI) developments. From&nbsp;Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)&nbsp;announcing a whopping $80 billion investment in AI data centers to the ongoing legal tussle between Elon Musk and OpenAI, the past week has been nothing short of eventful. Here&#8217;s a quick roundup of the top stories you might have missed.
Microsoft&#8217;s $80 Billion AI Investment
Microsoft is set to pump approximately $80 billion into the development of AI data centers in fiscal 2025. This move comes in the wake of the launch of ChatGPT by OpenAI in 2022, which has spurred companies to integrate AI into their offerings. The increasing demand for AI&#8217;s computing power necessitates specialized data centers, allowing tech firms to connect thousands of chips in clusters.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42801720/microsoft-to-invest-80-billion-in-ai-data-centers-for-fiscal-2025">Read the full article here.</a>
Microsoft&#8217;s Copilot Plus Targets Mini PCs
In another Microsoft-related development, the tech giant is expanding its AI hardware strategy with a new wave of compact desktop computers featuring dedicated Copilot capabilities. Asus has emerged as the first major manufacturer to unveil a Copilot Plus-compatible mini PC, signaling Microsoft&#8217;s push to expand its AI features beyond laptops.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42781607/microsofts-copilot-plus-set-to-expand-to-mini-pcs-at-ces-as-windows-maker-looks-to-take-on-apples-mac-mini">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42779998/6th-circuit-strikes-down-fcc-net-neutrality-rules-in-blow-to-biden-administrations-internet-regulation-agenda?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biden-Era Net Neutrality Rules Overturned By Federal Appeals Court: What It Means For Net Freedom</a>
Musk vs OpenAI: Geoffrey Hinton Weighs In
The ongoing battle between Elon Musk and Sam Altman over the new course of OpenAI has seen Geoffrey Hinton, the &#8220;Godfather of AI,&#8221; taking sides. Musk&#8217;s legal attempt to block OpenAI&#8217;s transition from a nonprofit to a for-profit structure is far from over.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/01/42778778/elon-musk-gets-support-from-godfather-of-ai-geoffrey-hinton-in-battle-against-openai">Read the full article here.</a>
Nvidia&#8217;s Billion-Dollar Investment Spree
NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) invested $1 billion across 50 startup funding rounds in 2024, consolidating its position in the AI segment. The company&#8217;s investment surge represents a 15% increase from its $872 million spending in 2023.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42758502/nvidias-investments-in-elon-musks-xai-perplexity-openai-and-other-startups-crossed-1-billion-mark-in-2024">Read the full article here.</a>
Nvidia Supplier Considers Expansion Amid AI Demand
Ibiden Co., a significant supplier for Nvidia, is contemplating accelerating its production capacity expansion to meet the growing demand for AI chip package substrates. The company is currently building a new substrate factory in Gifu, Japan, which is expected to commence operations at 25% capacity by late 2025.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42718022/days-after-key-nvidia-supplier-warned-of-ai-spending-slowdown-another-nvda-partner-considers-accelerating-expansion-to-meet-growing-demand">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42779753/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-replaces-global-affairs-chief-nick-clegg-with-republican-joel-kaplan-ahead-of-trump-inauguration?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Zuckerberg&#8217;s Meta Replaces Global Affairs Chief Nick Clegg With Republican Joel Kaplan Ahead Of Trump Inauguration</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
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>

MSFT

NVDA

Microsoft's $80 Billion Investment Outlay, Musk's Battle With OpenAI, And Nvidia's Billion-Dollar Bet: This Week In Artificial Intelligence

Esteemed investor Peter Lynch, celebrated for his extraordinary 13-year tenure managing the Fidelity Magellan fund has shared his investment insights and views on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/stock-split/24/12/42635790/investment-guru-peter-lynch-often-great-investments-are-the-ones-where-everyone-else-will-think-you-are-crazy">evolving stock market landscape</a>.
What Happened:&nbsp;Lynch, whose impressive&nbsp;29% annualized return from 1977&nbsp;to 1990 still stands, discussed his investment tactics and the transformation of the stock market. He stressed the significance of investing in sectors and companies that investors are familiar with, advising, &#8220;Invest in what you know.&#8221;
Lynch&#8217;s successful career has had a profound impact on American investment practices, with 55% of Americans now holding stocks, either directly or through retirement accounts and mutual funds. 
Despite the significant shifts in the investment world since Lynch&#8217;s era at Magellan, his legacy endures. He continues to guide stock analysts at&nbsp;Fidelity, the prominent investment firm based in Boston.
However, Lynch recognized the hurdles confronting today&#8217;s investors. With over 5,000 stock indexes&nbsp;and thousands of passive funds&nbsp;based on these, he pondered whether stock pickers can still offer unique insights into large corporations.
According to a report <a href="https://www.barrons.com/amp/articles/master-stockpicker-peter-lynch-if-you-only-invest-in-an-index-youll-never-beat-it-51576874071">by</a> Barron&#8217;s, Lynch maintains a positive outlook on the U.S. stock market, encouraging investors to purchase stocks irrespective of market conditions. He also underscored the importance of company fundamentals, such as earnings growth, inventory growth rates, and debt-to-equity ratios.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42499608/investment-guru-peter-lynch-if-you-cant-explain-to-an-11-year-old-in-2-minutes-or-less-why-you-own-t">Investment Guru Peter Lynch: &#8216;If You Can&#8217;t Explain To An 11-Year-Old In 2 Minutes Or Less Why You Own The Stock, You Shouldn&#8217;t Own It&#8217;</a>
Lynch says that, &#8220;if you invest only in an index, you'll never beat it. If you buy today's widespread notion that stock market returns will be generally lower in the future, brushing up on your stock-picking skills is wise.&#8221;
Despite his numerous triumphs, Lynch also confessed to making errors, notably in the technology sector. However, he is of the view that these mistakes have been counterbalanced by his profitable investments.
Why It Matters:&nbsp;Lynch&#8217;s advice to &#8220;invest in what you know&#8221; underscores the importance of familiarity and understanding in investment decisions. 
His successful career and enduring influence on American investment habits highlight the potential benefits of this approach. However, the evolving investment landscape, with its increasing complexity and the rise of passive funds, poses new challenges for investors. 
Lynch&#8217;s insights provide valuable guidance for navigating these challenges, emphasizing the importance of company fundamentals and a positive, long-term outlook.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/stock-split/24/12/42716205/peter-lynchs-timeless-investment-rules-you-can-always-lose-what-you-have-invested-even-if-a-stock-is-cheap">Peter Lynch&#8217;s Timeless Investment Rules: &#8216;You Can Always Lose What You Have Invested, Even if a Stock Is Cheap&#8217;</a>

Stock Split

AAPL

Investment Guru Peter Lynch: 'If You Invest Only in an Index, You'll Never Beat It. Brushing Up on Stock-Picking Skills Is Wise'

The past week was a rollercoaster ride for&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>). From leaks about the iPhone 17&#8217;s display upgrade to CEO Tim Cook&#8217;s hefty donation to Trump&#8217;s inauguration, the tech giant was in the limelight for various reasons. China&#8217;s decision to subsidize smartphones could pose a new challenge, while the halt of iPhone 14 and iPhone SE sales in the EU raised eyebrows. However, a bullish prediction for Apple&#8217;s stock offered a silver lining. Let&#8217;s delve into these stories.
iPhone 17 Display Upgrade
A new leak suggests that Apple is set to enhance the display technology in its upcoming iPhone 17 series. The Weibo-based Chinese leaker, Digital Chat Station, stated that supply chain materials support the rumors of a higher refresh rate for the standard iPhone 17. While the exact refresh rate wasn&#8217;t specified, earlier reports hint at a 120Hz ProMotion rate, previously exclusive to Pro models, being implemented.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42736353/iphone-17-to-get-display-upgrade-as-apple-finally-ditches-60hz-technology-new-leak-reiterates-possibility">Read the full article here.</a>
Tim Cook&#8217;s $1 Million Donation
Apple CEO Tim Cook reportedly donated $1 million to President-elect Donald Trump's inaugural committee, joining the ranks of other major tech leaders like Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and Sam Altman. Cook&#8217;s donation follows several meetings between him and Trump during the latter&#8217;s first term and a recent dinner at Mar-a-Lago. Cook views the inauguration as an important American tradition and is contributing to the spirit of unity.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42801809/apple-ceo-tim-cook-reportedly-donates-1-million-to-trump-inauguration-joins-ranks-of-mark-zuckerberg-jeff-bezos-and-sam-altman">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/01/42759975/squid-game-season-3-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-thrilling-finale-coming-in-2025?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Squid Game Season 3: Everything You Need To Know About The Thrilling Finale Coming In 2025</a>
China&#8217;s Smartphone Subsidies
China is extending consumption subsidies to include smartphones and other electronics, potentially giving companies like Huawei an upper hand. The national trade-in program, which currently covers home appliances and vehicles, will now extend to personal devices such as phones, tablets, and smartwatches. This announcement was made during a briefing on Friday.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42780776/is-apple-ready-for-a-new-challenge-chinas-smartphone-subsidies-aim-to-boost-domestic-demand-giving-companies-like-huawei-the-upper-hand">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple Halts Sales in EU
Apple has stopped selling its iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and third-generation iPhone SE models across most European Union countries. This decision is a response to new EU regulations requiring USB-C ports for smartphones with wired charging capabilities. The affected iPhone models have been removed from Apple's online store in several countries.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712752/apple-halts-iphone-14-iphone-se-sales-in-eu-heres-why">Read the full article here.</a>
Bullish Prediction for Apple Stock
Wedbush analyst Dan Ives predicts a 26% upside for Apple stock, foreseeing a &#8220;golden era of growth&#8221; for Cupertino with an AI-driven iPhone upgrade cycle. Ives believes that Apple&#8217;s iPhone sales could witness a boost thanks to AI and has raised the price target on Apple to $325.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42682230/tech-bull-predicts-26-upside-for-apple-stock-sees-golden-era-of-growth-for-cupertino-due-to-multi-year-ai-driven-iphone-upgrade-cycle">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42775636/ces-2025-preview-nvidia-amd-in-spotlight-other-trends-and-stocks-to-watch?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CES 2025 Preview: Nvidia And AMD Grab Spotlight, Other Trends And Stocks To Watch</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
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>

iPhone 17 Leak, Tim Cook's Donation To Trump Inauguration, And China's Subsidies To Homegrown Players: This Week In Appleverse

Businessman and author of &#8216;Rich Dad, Poor Dad&#8217; Robert Kiyosaki has predicted a colossal market crash and advised investing in gold, silver, and Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), criticizing the financial authorities for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40147003/rich-dad-poor-dad-author-robert-kiyosaki-sees-wealth-accumulation-in-market-declines-markets-are-cra">their money printing policies.</a>
What Happened: On Saturday, Kiyosaki took X to express his views on the current economic situation. He predicted a &#8220;GIANT MARKET CRASH&#8221; and questioned the policies of the Federal Reserve, the Treasury, Banks, and Wall Street.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">GIANT MARKET CRASH here. Q: How can I be so bullish on gold, silver, and Bitcoin? A: Because the idiots running the Fed, Treasury, Banks, and Wall Strret only know how to print money, which makes things worse. FYI: When fake money is printed the rich, who own real assets get…
&mdash; Robert Kiyosaki (@theRealKiyosaki) <a href="https://twitter.com/theRealKiyosaki/status/1875329849419821320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
&#8220;GIANT MARKET CRASH here. Q: How can I be so bullish on gold, silver, and Bitcoin? A: Because the idiots running the Fed, Treasury, Banks, and Wall Street only know how to print money, which makes things worse. FYI: When fake money is printed the rich, who own real assets get richer…. while the poor and middle class, who save fake money, get poorer due to inflation and taxes. Let inflation make you richer, not poorer. Save gold, silver, and Bitcoin. Take care. Crash is here,&#8221; Kiyosaki wrote in the post. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42638862/kiyosaki-warns-of-global-financial-crisis-protect-your-wealth-by-investing-in-real-assets">Kiyosaki Warns of Global Financial Crisis: &#8216;Protect Your Wealth by Investing in Real Assets&#8217;</a>
He criticized these institutions for their excessive money printing, which he believes exacerbates economic issues. Kiyosaki argued that this practice benefits the wealthy, who possess tangible assets, while harming the poor and middle class, who save &#8220;fake money.&#8221;
Why It Matters:&nbsp;Kiyosaki&#8217;s comments reflect his long-standing criticism of traditional financial institutions and their policies. He has consistently advocated for financial education and investment in tangible assets like gold, silver, and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
His tweet underscores his belief that these assets can provide a hedge against inflation and the devaluation of fiat currencies, a view shared by many in the cryptocurrency community. Kiyosaki&#8217;s advice to &#8220;Let inflation make you richer,&nbsp;not poorer&#8221; resonates with his followers, who value his insights on financial matters.
As the market navigates uncertain times, Kiyosaki&#8217;s words serve as a reminder of the importance of financial literacy and the potential benefits of diversifying one&#8217;s investment portfolio.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42255036/kiyosaki-on-bitcoin-100000-almost-impossible-for-the-poor-and-middle-class-to-catch-up" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Kiyosaki on Bitcoin $100,000: ‘Almost Impossible for the Poor and Middle Class to Catch Up'</a>

Robert Kiyosaki Predicts Massive Market Crash: 'Save Gold, Silver, & Bitcoin, Crash Is Here'

The past week has been a whirlwind of political news. From Senator Bernie Sanders backing President-elect Donald Trump&#8217;s proposal for a credit card interest rate cap to the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, the news cycle has been nothing short of eventful. Let&#8217;s delve into the top stories of the week.
Bernie Sanders Supports Trump&#8217;s Credit Cap Proposal
Senator Bernie Sanders announced his intention to introduce legislation supporting President-elect Trump&#8217;s proposal to cap credit card interest rates at 10%. This comes as credit card defaults hit their highest levels since the 2008 financial crisis. Major credit card companies such as Visa Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>), Mastercard Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>), and American Express Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>) saw their stocks decline.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42737402/bernie-sanders-supports-trumps-credit-card-interest-rate-cap-at-10-amid-highest-defaults-since-2008-visa-and-mastercard-trade-in-the-red">Read the full article here.</a>
Jimmy Carter&#8217;s Passing Mourned by Biden and Trump
President Joe Biden and President-elect Trump expressed their condolences over the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. Biden paid tribute to Carter&#8217;s extraordinary contributions over six decades, referring to him as a dear friend of the nation and the world.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42716729/jimmy-carter-to-receive-state-funeral-trump-calls-him-truly-a-good-man-biden-mourns-loss-of-extraordinary-leader">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump Accuses Black Celebrities of Paid Endorsements
Trump accused several Black celebrities of receiving payments for endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris earlier this year. Trump voiced his allegations on Truth Social, claiming that Democrats paid significant sums to secure endorsements from celebrities such as Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, and Al Sharpton.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42716303/donald-trump-claims-black-celebrities-were-paid-for-kamala-harris-endorsements">Read the full article here.</a>
Billionaires&#8217; Influence in Trump&#8217;s White House Warned by Robert Reich
Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich warned of a network of powerful billionaires, including venture capitalist Peter Thiel and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, exerting unparalleled influence over the U.S. government in Trump&#8217;s second term. Reich refers to this as a "billionaire brain trust" poised to shape key aspects of policy and governance.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42722137/elon-musk-peter-thiel-and-billionaires-influence-in-trumps-white-house-former-labor-secretary-robert-reichs-warning">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s Response to NOLA Attack
Trump used the deadly New Orleans attack to call for a crackdown on immigration and to criticize the FBI, the Department of Justice, and other agencies. Despite the attacker being born and raised in the U.S., Trump referred to the incident as a good reason to tighten immigration policies.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42776979/trump-calls-fbi-doj-incompetent-and-corrupt-us-a-laughing-stock-biden-calls-nola-attack-despicable-expresses-sympathy-for-victims-families">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42779624/bernie-sanders-says-elon-musk-wrong-on-tech-guest-worker-program-h1-b-visa-purpose-is-to-replace-good-paying-american-jobs?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bernie Sanders Says Elon Musk Wrong On Tech Guest Worker Program: H1-B Visa Purpose Is To &#8216;Replace Good-Paying American Jobs&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Flickr
 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/anan-ashraf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anan Ashraf.</a>

Sanders Backs Trump's Credit Cap, Carter's Passing, Trump's Response To NOLA Attack And More: This Week In Politics

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