W-SCOPE (OTC:WSPCF) Stock, Quote.Headers.trade-ideas

W-SCOPE Corp is a Japanese company which is engaged in manufacturing plastic film and sheets. The company mainly focuses on manufacturing and sale of separators for lithium-ion secondary cell batteries which are widely used in portable electronics such as mobile PCs and other devices.

W-SCOPE Corp

Billionaire investor and Dallas Mavericks co-owner Mark Cuban is known for his strong conviction in cryptocurrencies, having invested in heavyweights such as Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), as well as the king of meme coins, Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>).
While he has talked extensively about different coins in recent years, some of his remarks have indicated a clear bias for Ethereum.
What happened: During an interview with CNBC back in Oct. 2021, Cuban picked Ether as having the highest upside potential among cryptocurrencies.
"As an investment, I think Ethereum has the most upside," Cuban said.&nbsp;He added that Bitcoin is "better gold than gold" but that he won't recommend it over Ether.&nbsp;
That's not all. In a podcast with Galaxy Digital CEO Michael Novogratz in the same month, Cuban admitted, "I have my fair share of Bitcoin, but I&#8217;m more of an Ethereum maxi."
&#8220;Maxi&#8221; is an abbreviation for maximalist, a cryptocurrency slang used to describe someone with unwavering faith in a particular coin.
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Mark Cuban &#x7C; Crypto and the Creator Economy &#x7C; Next with Novo Podcast Episode 27" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BPG-ytZehsc?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> &#8216;Pharma Bro&#8217; Martin Shkreli Predicts Liquidation Doom For MicroStrategy Amid Fall Below $300, Says Bitcoin Will Hit $250K Without Michael Saylor</a>
Interestingly, a lot of these remarks were made during the peak of the last bull market in 2021.&nbsp;
During October, Ethereum's average price was $4,287.56, while Bitcoin was valued at $61,309.60 on average.
Let us assume a person parked $1,000 in both Ethereum and Bitcoin at the time, equating to&nbsp; 0.233 ETH and 0.0163 BTC.
More than three years later, the cryptocurrency market is in the midst of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42396548/from-100k-to-250k-analyzing-bitcoins-bull-market-signals">new bull cycle</a>. As of this writing, Bitcoin was trading at $96,354.12, while Ether was valued at $3,432.14 per unit.
So, if the trader HODLed their cryptocurrencies until today, their Bitcoin stash would be worth $1571.99, reflecting a gain of 57%.
On the contrary, their Ethereum stockpile would have reduced to $800.48, marking a loss of 19.95%.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Average Price In Oct. 2021</td>
<td>Amount Invested</td>
<td>Price (Recorded on 3:30 a.m )</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin</td>
<td>$61,309.60</td>
<td>$1000</td>
<td>$96,354.12</td>
<td>+57%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum</td>
<td>$4,287.56</td>
<td>$1000</td>
<td>$3,432.14</td>
<td>-19.95%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
As of today, Mark Cuban holds just 0.026 Ether, worth $87.55, and no Bitcoins in his portfolio, according to <a href="https://platform.arkhamintelligence.com/explorer/entity/mark-cuban">data</a> from Arkham Intelligence.
While Ethereum has clearly lagged Bitcoin in the ongoing bull cycle, several analysts expected the second-largest cryptocurrency <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42720351/ethereum-to-outperform-bitcoin-in-q1-2025-for-these-3-reasons-whale-trader-says">to get the better of its senior partner</a> in the first quarter of 2025.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42758291/elon-musks-return-to-original-x-avatar-causes-coin-themed-on-kekius-maximus-to-crash-90-frog-themed-pepe-slips-as-well">Elon Musk&#8217;s Return To Original X Avatar Causes Coin Themed On &#8216;Kekius Maximus&#8217; To Crash 90% — Frog-Themed PEPE Slips As Well</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

News

Markets

$BTC

$DOGE

$ETH

If You Invested $1000 Each In Bitcoin And Ethereum When Mark Cuban Overwhelmingly Favored ETH Over BTC, This Coin Would Have Returned You More Today

Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods analyst David Konrad maintains Citigroup (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>) with a Outperform and raises the price target from $82 to $85.

Price Target

Analyst Ratings

Keefe, Bruyette & Woods Maintains Outperform on Citigroup, Raises Price Target to $85

Goldman Sachs analyst John Mackay reinstates LandBridge (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LB#NYSE">LB</a>) with a Buy and announces $71 price target.

Initiation

Goldman Sachs Reinstates Buy on LandBridge, Announces $71 Price Target

Macro Economic Events

Econ #s

Economics

Germany Unemployment Rate For December 6.1% Vs. 6.2% Est.; 6.1% Prior

Germany Unemployment Change For December 10K Vs. 15K Est.; 7K Prior

Jim Cramer cautioned investors on Thursday against excessive speculation in quantum computing and nuclear power stocks, despite growing market enthusiasm for both sectors.
What Happened: &#8220;Both have promise, someday, but that day is not near enough to justify the current valuations for these stocks,&#8221; CNBC&#8217;s Cramer <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/02/jim-cramer-cautions-speculating-on-nuclear-power-and-quantum-computing.html">said</a> during his show, pointing to concerns about long development timelines and current market valuations.
His warning comes as the U.S. quantum computing market, valued at $138.2 million in 2022, is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42638753/quantum-computing-the-new-ai-a-look-at-the-rapidly-expanding-market-and-top-stocks-for-2025">projected to reach</a> $1.2 billion by 2030, according to Fortune Business Insights. 
Several quantum-focused stocks have seen significant recent gains, including Rigetti Computing Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGTI#NASDAQ">RGTI</a>), D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QBTS#NYSE">QBTS</a>), and Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QUBT#NASDAQ">QUBT</a>).
Cramer expressed particular concern about quantum computing companies that are currently unprofitable despite substantial stock price increases. He referenced Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) recent quantum developments, including its new Willow chip, while noting the technology remains &#8220;in its infancy.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42779827/joe-biden-to-decide-on-nippon-steels-14-9b-us-steel-acquisition-on-friday-amid-veto-offer-labor-concerns">Joe Biden To Decide On Nippon Steel&#8217;s $14.9B US Steel Acquisition On Friday Amid Veto Offer, Labor Concerns</a>
Why It Matters: Regarding nuclear power, Cramer cited GE Vernova CEO Scott Strazik&#8216;s projection that nuclear projects could take a decade to generate profits. He questioned the valuations of smaller nuclear companies like Oklo and NuScale Power Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMR#NYSE">SMR</a>), despite acknowledging the sector&#8217;s long-term potential.
Major tech companies including Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/42528751/investing-in-the-future-of-quantum-computing-stocks-to-watch-now">made significant investments</a> in quantum computing development, with Amazon also exploring nuclear energy applications.
&#8220;I fear people will get hurt speculating on even the biggest companies, let alone the smaller ones,&#8221; Cramer said. 
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42780788/us-steel-tumbles-nearly-10-in-overnight-trading-on-robinhood-as-biden-reportedly-plans-to-block-149b-nippon-steel-merger">US Steel Tumbles Nearly 10% In Overnight Trading On Robinhood As Biden Reportedly Plans To Block $14.9B Nippon Steel Merger</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image via Shutterstock

Equities

Global

AMZN

GOOG

GOOGL

MSFT

QBTS

QUBT

RGTI

Jim Cramer Warns 'Day Is Not Near Enough To Justify The Current Valuations' Of Quantum Computing, Nuclear Power Stocks

Amid a turbulent start to the year for Chinese stocks,&nbsp;UBS Global Wealth Management&nbsp;has issued a warning to investors, recommending to &nbsp;"stay on the defensive side.&#8221; This comes as market&nbsp;volatility is expected to rise&nbsp;due to anticipated policy changes by the incoming U.S. administration.
What Happened:&nbsp;UBS Global Wealth Management&nbsp;has advised investors in Chinese stocks to adopt a defensive strategy. This recommendation comes as consumption remains subdued and market volatility is anticipated to increase due to impending higher tariffs by US President-elect&nbsp;Donald Trump, Bloomberg&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-03/ubs-wealth-urges-chinese-stock-investors-to-stay-defensive?ref=biztoc.com">reported</a> on Friday.
In an interview with Bloomberg Television,&nbsp;Eva Lee,&nbsp;head of Greater China equities&nbsp;at UBS, suggested that investors focus on stocks offering dividend yields above 6%, significantly higher than the 2% government yields. She highlighted a 4% yield gap as particularly appealing, recommending sectors such as banks, utilities, and energy.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/01/42757978/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-begin-new-year-on-a-healthy-note-analyst-says-this-blue-chip-crypto-can-witness-good-amount-of-action-in-early-2025?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Begin New Year On A Healthy Note: Analyst Says This Blue Chip Crypto Can Witness &#8216;Good Amount Of Action&#8217; In Early 2025</a>
Chinese stocks have had a rough start to 2025, with a 2.9% decline on Thursday marking the worst beginning to a year in nearly a decade. The&nbsp;CSI 300 Index&nbsp;continued its downward trend on Friday. Although last year&#8217;s stimulus measures have helped stabilize the market, traders are wary of economic uncertainties as Trump&#8217;s inauguration approaches.
China plans to&nbsp;issue more ultra-long special treasury&nbsp;bonds in 2025 to support&nbsp;consumer product trade-in programs&nbsp;and major projects. Meanwhile, the&nbsp;10-year government bond yield fell below 1.6% on Friday, reflecting&nbsp;economic concerns and expectations for&nbsp;further monetary easing.
Why It Matters: The advice follows Chinese stocks experiencing a drop right after resuming trading after New Year&#8217;s Day. The drop was attributed to a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42767647/chinese-stocks-drop-as-manufacturing-growth-slows-and-geopolitical-tensions-hit">slowdown in manufacturing growth</a>. The Caixin/S&amp;P Global manufacturing purchasing managers&#8217; index for December fell to 50.5, missing analyst expectations. This slowdown is compounded by geopolitical tensions, including a semiconductor embargo from the U.S. and concerns over potential tariffs.
Furthermore, the Trump administration plans to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/12/42701155/made-in-china-paid-in-america-what-trumps-new-tariffs-mean-for-the-us-economy">significantly increase tariffs </a>on Chinese imports, with rates potentially rising by 20 percentage points. These developments are likely to impact both the Chinese and U.S. economies, affecting consumer prices and industrial production.
Price Action: As per <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>, in after-hours trading, Alibaba Group Holding Ltd &#8211; ADR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) slipped 0.047%, Baidu Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BIDU#NASDAQ">BIDU</a>) rose 0.34%, and JD.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JD#NASDAQ">JD</a>) edged up 0.18%. During the same period, Nio Inc &#8211; ADR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NIO#NYSE">NIO</a>) and Xpeng Inc &#8211; ADR (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPEV#NYSE">XPEV</a>) were up nearly 1%.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42779711/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-lift-as-traders-anticipate-golden-crypto-era-under-trump-top-analyst-says-2025-will-see-bull-market-peak?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Lift As Traders Anticipate &#8216;Golden Crypto Era&#8217; Under Trump: Top Analyst Says&nbsp;2025 Will See Bull Market Peak</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: 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.
Image via Shutterstock

General

BABA

BIDU

XPEV

Analyst Warns Investors To 'Stay On The Defensive Side' For Chinese Stock As Trump's Tariff Fears Mount: Nio, Xpeng, Alibaba, JD In Focus

<h3>Companies Reporting Before The Bell</h3>
<h3>Companies Reporting After The Bell</h3>
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Earnings

Earnings Scheduled For January 3, 2025

Elon Musk&#8217;s rocket manufacturing company SpaceX is eyeing launching into space for the first time in 2025 on Friday for UAE-based Space42.
What Happened: SpaceX is now targeting Friday for Falcon 9&#8217;s launch of AI-powered space tech company Space42&#8217;s&nbsp;Thuraya 4&nbsp;mission to a geosynchronous transfer orbit from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.&nbsp;If not on Friday, the company is aiming to launch the mission on Saturday. 
Space42's Thuraya 4 telecommunications satellite was built by Airbus and is fully electric. The satellite is aimed at delivering increased coverage across Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Targeting Friday, January 3 for Falcon 9's launch of the <a href="https://twitter.com/space42ai?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space42ai</a> Thuraya 4 mission to orbit from Florida → <a href="https://t.co/bJFjLCiTbK">https://t.co/bJFjLCiTbK</a>
&mdash; SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1874898709756133721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The mission will mark SpaceX&#8217;s first mission in 2025. The company last launched its Falcon 9 rocket from Florida on the last day of 2024 with 21 Starlink satellites. 
Why It Matters: In 2024, SpaceX <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/01/42755343/spacex-hits-new-milestone-in-2024-with-134-launches">completed 134 launches</a>, not including four Starship test flights. A majority of them were Starlink missions launched by the company&#8217;s workhorse Falcon 9 launch vehicle. 
The company is yet to unveil the number of launches it is targeting in 2025.
However, the company said earlier this week that it is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/01/42761808/spacex-says-starlink-now-has-over-4-6-million-customers-1-6-million-new-users-added-in-7-months">&#8220;soon&#8221; looking to launch its third generation of Starlink satellites</a> on its Starship launch vehicle. However, the Starship is still in the testing and development phase and has yet to carry any major payload to space.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Future Of Mobility coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42780030/tesla-will-put-cybertruck-involved-in-explosion-on-new-years-day-back-on-road-says-elon-musk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla Will Put Cybertruck Involved In Explosion At Trump Hotel Back On Road, Says Elon Musk: ‘We'll Buff Out The Scratches'</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Spacex

SPACE

Tech

SpaceX's First Launch In 2025 To Be For UAE-Based Space Tech Company

Roadzen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDZN#NASDAQ">RDZN</a>), ("Roadzen" or the "Company"), a global leader in AI at the convergence of insurance and mobility, today announced the pricing of a best-efforts offering of 2,222,300 ordinary shares at a public offering price of $2.25 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately $5,000,000, before deducting placement agent fees and offering expenses. All of the ordinary shares are being offered by the Company. The offering is expected to close on January 6, 2025, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the offering primarily for costs directly related to sales and marketing, for research and development, working capital and general corporate purposes, including personnel costs, capital expenditures and the costs of operating as a public company. The Company may also use a portion of the net proceeds to repay indebtedness outstanding.

Offerings

RDZN

Roadzen Prices $5M Secondary Offering Of 2.22M Shares At $2.25/Share

KB Home (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KBH#NYSE">KBH</a>) will release earnings for its fourth quarter, after the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/KBH/earnings">closing bell on Thursday, Jan. 9</a>.
Analysts expect the Los Angeles, California-based company to report quarterly earnings at $2.46 per share, up from $1.85 per share in the year-ago period. KB Home projects to report quarterly revenue of $1.99 billion, compared to $1.67 billion a year earlier, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
On Sept. 24, KB Home reported third-quarter revenue of $1.75 billion, beating analyst estimates of $1.728 billion. The U.S. homebuilder reported third-quarter earnings of $2.04 per share, beating analyst estimates of $2.02 per share.
KB Home shares fell 1.6% to close at $64.64 on Thursday&nbsp;&nbsp; .
Benzinga readers can access the latest analyst ratings on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. Readers can sort by stock ticker, company name, analyst firm, rating change or other variables.
Let's have a look at how Benzinga's most-accurate <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/KBH/analyst-ratings">analysts have rated the company</a> in the recent period.
<ul>
<li>JP Morgan analyst Michael Rehaut maintained a Neutral rating and cut the price target from $92.5 to $82 on Dec. 13, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 71%.</li>
<li>Barclays analyst Matthew Bouley downgraded the stock from Overweight to Equal-Weight and slashed the price target from $99 to $85 on Dec. 11, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 73%.</li>
<li>Wedbush analyst Jay McCanless maintained a Neutral rating and raised the price target from $67 to $75 on Sept. 25, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 87%.</li>
<li>B of A Securities analyst Rafe Jadrosich maintained a Neutral rating and boosted the price target from $75 to $90 on Sept. 19, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 67%.</li>
<li>RBC Capital analyst Mike Dahl downgraded the stock from Sector Perform to Underperform with a price target of $70 on Sept. 5, 2024. This analyst has an accuracy rate of 72%.</li>
</ul>
Considering buying KBH stock? Here&#8217;s what analysts think: 
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="569" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03025254/image-10-1024x569.png" alt="" class="wp-image-716509" style="width:580px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03025254/image-10-1024x569.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03025254/image-10-300x167.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03025254/image-10-768x427.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03025254/image-10.png 1116w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Read This Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42763645/how-to-earn-500-a-month-from-acuity-brands-stock-ahead-of-q1-earnings">How To Earn $500 A Month From Acuity Brands Stock Ahead Of Q1 Earnings</a></li>
</ul>

Trading Ideas

KB Home Gears Up For Q4 Print; Here Are The Recent Forecast Changes From Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts

The CNN Money Fear and Greed index showed an increase in the overall fear level, while the index remained in the &#8220;Fear&#8221; zone on Thursday.
U.S. stocks settled lower on Thursday, with the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq Composite declining for five consecutive sessions, recording their longest losing streaks since April.
Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) shares fell over 6% on Thursday following fourth-quarter production and delivery data.
On the economic data front, U.S. initial jobless claims fell by 9,000 from the previous week to a reading of 211,000 in the final week of 2024, versus market estimates of 222,000. The S&amp;P Global manufacturing PMI declined to 49.4 in December compared to 49.7 in the prior month, versus a revised preliminary reading of 48.3. U.S. construction spending unexpectedly stalled month-over-month to an annual rate of $2,153 billion in November compared to a revised 0.5% gain in October and missing market estimates of a 0.3% rise.
Most sectors on the S&amp;P 500 closed on a negative note, with consumer discretionary, materials, and real estate stocks recording the biggest losses on Thursday. However, energy and utilities stocks bucked the overall market trend, closing the session higher.
The Dow Jones closed lower by around 152 points to 42,392.27 on Thursday. The S&amp;P 500 fell 0.22% to 5,868.55, while the Nasdaq Composite dipped 0.16% to 19,280.79 during Thursday's session.
What is CNN Business Fear &amp; Greed Index?
At a current reading of 26.1, the index remained in the &#8220;Fear&#8221; zone on Thursday, versus a prior reading of 27.7.
The Fear &amp; Greed Index is a measure of the current market sentiment. It is based on the premise that higher fear exerts pressure on stock prices, while higher greed has the opposite effect. The index is calculated based on seven equal-weighted indicators. The index ranges from 0 to 100, where 0 represents maximum fear and 100 signals maximum greediness.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42763645/how-to-earn-500-a-month-from-acuity-brands-stock-ahead-of-q1-earnings">How To Earn $500 A Month From Acuity Brands Stock Ahead Of Q1 Earnings</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Pre-Market Outlook

TSLA

S&P 500 Falls For 5th Straight Session, Tesla Tumbles: Greed Index Remains In 'Fear' Zone

With U.S. stock futures trading higher this morning on Friday, some of the stocks that may grab investor focus today are as follows:
<ul>
<li>GeneDx Holdings Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WGS#NASDAQ">WGS</a>) named Bryan Dechairo as Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. GeneDx shares fell 2.7% to $77.46 in after-hours trading.</li>
<li>Lifecore Biomedical, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LFCR#NASDAQ">LFCR</a>) posted better-than-expected results for its second quarter on Thursday. The company reported a quarterly loss of 25 cents per share, compared to market expectations of a loss of 29 cents per share. The company reported quarterly sales of $32.60 million which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $29.75 million, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>. Lifecore Biomedical shares gained 5.3% to $7.01 in the after-hours trading session.</li>
<li>SPS Commerce, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPSC#NASDAQ">SPSC</a>) reached an agreement to acquire Carbon6 Technologies, Inc. SPS Commerce shares fell 0.6% to close at $182.81 on Thursday.</li>
</ul>
Check out our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here</a>
<ul>
<li>Resources Connection, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGP#NASDAQ">RGP</a>) posted upbeat results for its second quarter. The company reported quarterly earnings of 18 cents per share on sales of $145.60 million. Resources Connection shares gained 3.2% to $9.00 in after-hours trading.</li>
<li>UDR, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UDR#NYSE">UDR</a>) promoted Mike Lacy to Chief Operating Officer and plans to initiate an executive search process to recruit a new Chief Financial Officer. UDR shares fell 2% to close at $42.53 on Thursday.</li>
</ul>
Check This Out: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42763645/how-to-earn-500-a-month-from-acuity-brands-stock-ahead-of-q1-earnings">How To Earn $500 A Month From Acuity Brands Stock Ahead Of Q1 Earnings</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

LFCR

SPSC

Resources Connection, SPS Commerce And 3 Stocks To Watch Heading Into Friday

Shares of U.S. Steel (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/X#NYSE">X</a>) plunged 9.82% in overnight trading on Robinhood on Friday, following a modest 1.38% gain during the last after-hours session.
What Happened: This decline comes as President&nbsp;Joe Biden&nbsp;is poised&nbsp;to block the proposed acquisition by&nbsp;Nippon Steel (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NPSCY#OTC">NPSCY</a>), potentially as soon as Friday, Reuters reported, citing a source familiar with the matter.
Despite Biden&#8217;s previous&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42779827/joe-biden-to-decide-on-nippon-steels-14-9b-us-steel-acquisition-on-friday-amid-veto-offer-labor-concerns">opposition to foreign ownership </a>of&nbsp;the American steel giant, the decision remains pending.
In a strategic move to gain approval, Nippon Steel has proposed granting&nbsp;the U.S. government direct veto&nbsp;power over any changes in production at U.S. Steel&#8217;s facilities. The Japanese company has also committed to maintaining production levels at its mills in six states for a decade, contingent on approval from the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).
The deal has received backing from key CFIUS members, including the Justice, Treasury, and State Departments. However, U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai has raised concerns about labor issues. CBS News reports that U.S. Steel may pursue legal action if President Biden blocks the acquisition, potentially targeting both the administration and competitor Cleveland-Cliffs Inc.
The White House has yet to respond to Benzinga&#8217;s queries.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42740507/reddit-user-asks-how-do-so-many-people-afford-multi-million-dollar-homes-says-even-six-figure-salaries-mean-nothing-in-this-area?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reddit User Asks, &#8216;How Do So Many People Afford Multi-Million Dollar Homes?&#8217; Says Even Six-Figure Salaries &#8216;Mean Nothing In This Area&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: The proposed acquisition by Nippon Steel has stirred significant debate within the U.S. government. CFIUS had <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42751615/nippon-steel-proposes-biden-government-veto-over-us-steels-production-output-in-bid-to-secure-acquisition">previously warned that a takeover </a>by the Japan-based company could lead to reduced domestic steel output, posing risks to national security.
President Biden&#8217;s decision is complicated by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/12/42666379/joe-biden-faces-decisive-call-on-nippon-steels-14-9b-bid-for-us-steel-amid-national-security-concerns">opposition from United Steelworkers </a>Union President&nbsp;David McCall, who criticized the bid as detrimental to workers and questioned Nippon Steel&#8217;s commitment to unionized operations. Despite internal debates within the White House, Biden&#8217;s stance diverges from that of&nbsp;some advisers who support the acquisition.
Read Next:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42759294/robinhood-rings-in-new-year-with-2-5-million-bitcoin-dogecoin-giveaway-ceo-vlad-tenev-celebrates-customer-loyalty?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robinhood Rings In New Year With $2.5 Million Bitcoin, Dogecoin Giveaway: CEO Vlad Tenev Celebrates Customer Loyalty</a></li>
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Disclaimer: 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.
Photo by Dennis Diatel on Shutterstock

NPSCY

US Steel Tumbles Nearly 10% In Overnight Trading On Robinhood As Biden Reportedly Plans To Block $14.9B Nippon Steel Merger

China is expanding consumption subsidies to include smartphones and other electronics.
What Happened: The national trade-in program, which currently covers home appliances and vehicles, will now extend to personal devices such as phones, tablets, and smartwatches.
Officials from China&#8217;s top economic planning agency announced this expansion during a briefing on Friday, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-03/china-to-subsidize-smartphone-purchases-in-bid-to-lift-spending">reported</a> Bloomberg.
The subsidies are expected to rejuvenate the world&#8217;s largest smartphone market, benefiting brands like Huawei Technologies Co. and Xiaomi Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACF#OTC">XIACF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACY#OTC">XIACY</a>), and platforms like Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) and JD.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JD#NASDAQ">JD</a>).
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42716915/porn-on-spotify-users-discover-explicit-content-hidden-in-search-results-sparking-outrage-over-moderation-loopholes?itm_source=parsely-api">Spotify Users Discover Adult Content Hidden In Search Results Sparking Outrage Over Moderation Loopholes</a>
This initiative is part of China&#8217;s strategy to boost consumption and counter potential new <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41737933/trump-tariff-proposed-may-cost-americans-78b-in-spending-study">U.S. tariffs on Chinese exports</a>.
In late 2024, several provinces initiated their trade-in programs, but a nationwide effort is expected to be more impactful. A detailed plan for the program&#8217;s expansion will be released soon.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: Huawei is already eating Apple Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42759147/apple-discounts-iphone-16-prices-in-china-by-up-to-68-5-as-it-battles-huaweis-resurgence-in-the-country">lunch in China</a>. iPhones face fierce competition from Huawei&#8217;s next-generation Mate series.
In July, it was reported that Apple's ranking in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/07/39954971/apple-drops-from-3rd-to-6th-in-china-amid-intensifying-competition-huawei-shipments-surge-41-in-">Chinese market fell from</a> third to sixth place during the second quarter of 2024. During the same period, Huawei saw a 41% year-over-year surge.
Later in the third quarter, the tech giant's smartphone sales in China dipped by 0.3% year-over-year, securing a 15.6% share of the market. Meanwhile, Huawei experienced a remarkable <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42721523/apples-chinese-rival-huawei-slashes-prices-for-new-year-boost-should-tim-cook-led-company-be-worried-heres-what-analysts-are-saying-about-aapl-stock">42% growth</a>, climbing to a 15.3% market share.
Cupertino is currently providing discounts of up to 500 yuan (about $68.50) on its iPhone 16 models in China. The promotional event will run from Jan. 4 to Jan. 7.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42739523/apple-amazon-samsung-and-nintendo-what-tech-marvels-are-these-giants-cooking-in-2025?itm_source=parsely-api">Apple, Amazon, Samsung, And Nintendo: What Tech Marvels Are These Giants Cooking In 2025</a></li>
</ul>

Government

Regulations

Media

AAPL

XIACF

XIACY

Apple Rival Huawei, Alibaba And Others Get Boost As China Doles Out Subsidies To Smartphone Buyers

China&#8217;s Geely Auto said on Thursday that it is looking at delivering 320,000 units of its Zeekr brand EVs in 2025, 44% more than what the company delivered in 2024.
What Happened: Zeekr sold 222,123 EVs in 2024, marking a jump of 87% year-on-year. For 2025, the company is now aiming for 320,000 sales. 
Geely, overall, is looking to deliver 2.71 million vehicles in the new year including 2 million units under the Geely brand. In 2024, the company delivered 2.18 million vehicles.
Why It Matters: Zeekr began delivering EVs in October 2021 and has delivered over <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41973728/zeekr-sees-51-surge-in-q3-deliveries-but-faces-lower-margins-amid-pricing-shifts">350,000 vehicles to date</a>. The brand now operates in Europe, Hong Kong, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40647203/teslas-chinese-rival-zeekr-takes-on-elon-musks-ev-giant-with-a-more-affordable-electric-suv-in-china">over 30 markets worldwide</a>.
Zeekr, though a Geely brand, is listed on the New York Stock Exchange as Zeekr Intelligent Tech (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZK#NYSE">ZK</a>). It has a consensus price target of $31.83 based on the ratings of 5 analysts tracked by Benzinga and a consensus &#8220;buy&#8221; rating.
Zeekr shares closed down 4.44% on Thursday at $27.12. The stock is down 4% over the past year, according to data from <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>. 
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Future Of Mobility coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42780142/chinese-player-byd-overtakes-tesla-yet-again-as-worlds-biggest-ev-seller-in-q4">Tesla Overtaken by BYD Again: Chinese Player Becomes World&#8217;s Biggest EV Seller In Q4</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Zeekr

Zeekr Targets 320,000 EVs In 2025 As Geely Pushes For Record 2.71 Million Deliveries

Quantum computing stocks <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/24/12/42569883/quantum-computing-rigetti-d-wave-skyrocket-up-to-300-in-5-sessions-after-google-unveils-willow-chip-but-analysts-urge-caution-not-every-tiktok-guitarist-is-the-next-taylor-swift">surge</a> to record highs in 2024, fueled by Google&#8217;s recent Willow chip announcement. Here&#8217;s an exchange-traded fund that offers investors exposure to this burgeoning sector. 
What Happened: Defiance Quantum ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QTUM#NASDAQ">QTUM</a>) is an ETF that tracks the BlueStar Quantum Computing and Machine Learning Index, which helps investors capture the growth potential of the quantum computing sector. 
The ETF has gained 16.41% over the last month, 29.03% over the last six months and 54.88% in 2024, as per <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Defiance Quantum ETF In 2024</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010930/QTUM-in-2024-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-716373" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010930/QTUM-in-2024-1024x576.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010930/QTUM-in-2024-300x169.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010930/QTUM-in-2024-768x432.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010930/QTUM-in-2024-1536x864.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010930/QTUM-in-2024.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
The ETF invests in over 70 global stocks across the value chain, including hardware, software, and application-focused companies. Its top holdings include Rigetti with a weightage of 3.79% and D-wave with a 3.27% weight, followed by IONQ, Alchip Technologies, and Teradyne.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Top 10 Holdings Of Defiance Quantum ETF </h3>
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Name</td>
<td>ETF Weight</td>
<td>Shares Held</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rigetti Computing</td>
<td>3.79%</td>
<td>1,571,360</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>D-wave Quantum</td>
<td>3.27%</td>
<td>2,814,719</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IONQ</td>
<td>2.02%</td>
<td>388,758</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alchip Technologies</td>
<td>1.58%</td>
<td>139,102</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Teradyne</td>
<td>1.47%</td>
<td>96,480</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tower Semiconductor</td>
<td>1.47%</td>
<td>236,327</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Global Unichip Corp</td>
<td>1.45%</td>
<td>306,991</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Palantir Technologies</td>
<td>1.45%</td>
<td>159,931</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing</td>
<td>1.45%</td>
<td>59,591</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: <a href="https://www.defianceetfs.com/qtum-full-holdings/">Defiance ETFs</a></figcaption></figure>
Quantum computing stocks like Quantum Computing Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QUBT#NASDAQ">QUBT</a>), Rigetti Computing Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGTI#NASDAQ">RGTI</a>), D-Wave Quantum Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QBTS#NYSE">QBTS</a>), and IONQ Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IONQ#NYSE">IONQ</a>) have scaled fresh highs in 2024, especially after Alphabet Inc'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>) Google launched Willow on Dec. 9, 2024.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Quantum Computing Stocks In 2024</h3>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="614" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010908/Quantum-computing-stocks-in-224-1024x614.png" alt="" class="wp-image-716371" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010908/Quantum-computing-stocks-in-224-1024x614.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010908/Quantum-computing-stocks-in-224-300x180.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010908/Quantum-computing-stocks-in-224-768x461.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010908/Quantum-computing-stocks-in-224-1536x922.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/03010908/Quantum-computing-stocks-in-224.png 1800w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/01/42762341/sofi-tech-downgraded-over-valuation-concerns-stock-priced-three-times-its-peers">SoFi Tech Downgraded Over Valuation Concerns: Stock Priced Three Times Its Peers </a>
Why It Matters: Quantum computers, leveraging qubits, offer the potential to revolutionize computing by exponentially accelerating complex calculations.
Google&#8217;s recent Willow chip, showcasing advancements in quantum memory, achieved a benchmark computation in minutes that would take a supercomputer 10 septillion years. Despite this progress, high error rates remain a significant hurdle, hindering widespread commercial adoption and creating uncertainty around the timeline for practical applications.
According to Jon Najarian, the co-founder of Market Rebellion, Rigetti is a standout in the quantum computing space.
<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">Was on <a href="https://twitter.com/FoxBusiness?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FoxBusiness</a> to discuss Rigetti <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24RGTI&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$RGTI</a> With options extending to May 2025, it&#39;s a standout in the quantum computing space. Despite past surges, expect pullbacks but the future looks bright for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/quantumcomputing?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#quantumcomputing</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24QUBT&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$QUBT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24QBTS&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$QBTS</a> Google&#39;s Willow chip and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JPMorgan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JPMorgan</a>&#39;s… <a href="https://t.co/5HTAhAKf1d">pic.twitter.com/5HTAhAKf1d</a>
&mdash; Jon Najarian (@jonnajarian) <a href="https://twitter.com/jonnajarian/status/1874199822011347015?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The Kobeissi Letter, in an X post, also highlighted that &#8220;Call options trading value on quantum computing stocks is now 2,500% above average.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Are quantum computing stocks the next big thing? Call options trading value on quantum computing stocks is now 2,500% ABOVE average. Call options volume in <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24IONQ&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$IONQ</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24RGTI&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$RGTI</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24QBTS&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$QBTS</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24QUBT&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$QUBT</a> relative to their average volume has risen 10 TIMES in just 1 month. To put this into… <a href="https://t.co/THqQWfuGQc">pic.twitter.com/THqQWfuGQc</a>
&mdash; The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/1871348688158966072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Based on an X <a href="https://x.com/CitronResearch/status/1866859551166959963?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1866859551166959963%7Ctwgr%5E9f62868771334299e3b321953cbd1e018bf1f161%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Feditorial.benzinga.com%2Fwp-admin%2Fpost.php%3Fpost%3D716359action%3Dedit">post </a>from Dec. 11, Citron Research said, "Buying $RGTI based on Google&#8217;s quantum success is as misguided as believing every TikTok guitarist is the next Taylor Swift," said Citron Research.
What Are Other Analysts Saying: According to the analysts tracked by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com">Benzinga</a>, most of these quantum computing companies face a potential downside in the future, with the exception of IBM.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Stocks</td>
<td>Last Three PT's Average</td>
<td>Up/Downside Potential</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rigetti Computing</td>
<td>$6.17</td>
<td>-69.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Quantum Computing</td>
<td>$8.63</td>
<td>-52.95%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>D-Wave Quantum</td>
<td>$8.00</td>
<td>-17.27%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IONQ</td>
<td>$39.00</td>
<td>-9.68%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IBM</td>
<td>$226.67</td>
<td>3.69%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: Benzinga</figcaption></figure>
Image via Rawpixel
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Analyst Color

Market Summary

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

New ETFs

ETFs

IONQ

QTUM

Quantum Computing Stocks Like Rigetti Computing Are Soaring And This ETF Lets Investors Participate In The Boom Story

HIMX

Himax And Calumino Collaborate To Launch Advanced CMOS Imager-Based Thermal Sensor For AI Applications

Chinese government bond yields dropped below 2% for the first time ever, highlighting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/12/42456825/china-might-be-pivoting-to-moderately-loose-monetary-policy-but-experts-feel-bazooka-style-stimulus-wont-arrive-immediately">deepening concerns about deflation</a> in the world&#8217;s second-largest economy as the U.S. dollar reaches new highs amid diverging economic trajectories.
What Happened: The yield on China&#8217;s benchmark 10-year bond fell 1.5 basis points to 1.598%, while the 30-year yield declined 2.9 basis points to 1.819%. The People&#8217;s Bank of China is reportedly considering interest rate cuts this year, according <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/794577b2-6bdd-4a03-bfab-19463543048a">to</a> the Financial Times, as policymakers grapple with persistent deflationary pressures.
Since President-elect Donald Trump&#8216;s election victory, market dynamics have shifted significantly. The U.S. Dollar Index has surged to 109.4, its highest level since October 2022, gaining 5.54% since Nov. 5. The strengthening dollar reflects expectations of prolonged higher U.S. rates and Trump&#8217;s proposed growth-focused policies.
The yuan has weakened to 7.30 against the dollar, down 2.82% since early November, adding to Beijing&#8217;s economic challenges. Chinese stocks continued their downward trend, with the CSI 300 index falling 0.18% on Friday, even as other Asian markets gained ground.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42779827/joe-biden-to-decide-on-nippon-steels-14-9b-us-steel-acquisition-on-friday-amid-veto-offer-labor-concerns">Joe Biden To Decide On Nippon Steel&#8217;s $14.9B US Steel Acquisition On Friday Amid Veto Offer, Labor Concerns</a>
Why It Matters: The deflationary pressure in China has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41182930/china-was-tipping-into-a-japan-style-lost-decade-of-deflation-and-stagnation-before-late-septemb">become particularly acute</a>, with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42767647/chinese-stocks-drop-as-manufacturing-growth-slows-and-geopolitical-tensions-hit">producer prices declining</a> for 26 consecutive months, dropping 2.5% year-over-year in November. This has created a challenging environment for manufacturers, forcing many to cut prices amid overcapacity and weak demand.
U.S. markets have also started 2025 on a cautious note, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average down 0.36% to 42,392.27, the S&amp;P 500 falling 0.22% to 5,868.55, and the Nasdaq Composite declining 0.16% to 19,280.79.
Japan&#8217;s 10-year government bond yield edged up to 1.09%, near its 13.5-year high of 1.11%, reflecting the country&#8217;s ongoing battle with inflation – a stark contrast to China&#8217;s deflationary struggles.
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Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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