Business First Bancshares Azioni (NASDAQ: BFST)

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Business First Bancshares

Business First Bancshares Inc is a bank holding company. The company's services include personal and commercial banking, treasury management, and wealth solutions. It provides a range of financial services to small-to-midsized businesses and professionals. The company generates majority of its revenues from interest income on loans, customer service and loan fees, and interest income from securities.

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Business First Bancshares Inc

Geoffrey Hinton, the deep-learning pioneer popularly dubbed the "Godfather of AI," says young job seekers should consider a career as a plumber as software continues to eclipse routine office work.
What Happened: &#8220;AI is just going to replace everybody" doing "mundane intellectual labor," Hinton told "The Diary of a CEO" podcast, adding he would be "terrified" today in a call-center or paralegal post.
Hinton said physical trades remain safer because "it's going to be a long time&#8221; before AI is as good at &#8220;physical manipulation,&#8221; even though he concedes that artificial intelligence models will eventually be "better than us at everything.&#8221;
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Plumbing, electrical work and similar hands-on roles demand dexterity robots still lack, he noted, mirroring earlier <a href="https://medium.com/ai-disruption/hinton-forget-ai-become-a-plumber-c831603f5e8b">advice</a> he gave a parent in November 2024 to have their child "learn plumbing. Stay away from AI."
See also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45965595/eric-trump-says-he-doesnt-have-public-involvement-in-justin-suns-mstr-type-public-venture-but-admits-hes-a-fan-of-tron-and-its-founder">Eric Trump Says He Doesn&#8217;t Have &#8216;Public Involvement&#8217; In Justin Sun&#8217;s MSTR-Type Public Venture, But Admits He&#8217;s A &#8216;Fan&#8217; Of Tron And Its Founder</a>
The emeritus Alphabet Inc. (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>) Google scientist warned that displacement is already underway. AI copilots will soon let one worker do what used to be the work of ten people, prompting mass layoffs in sectors with little elastic demand. Industries such as health care may absorb automation because "there's almost endless demand," but "most jobs … are not like that," he said.
Why It Matters: Hinton, who <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/05/32146221/ai-godfather-geoffrey-hinton-quits-google-hard-to-see-how-you-can-prevent-the-bad-actors-from-using">left Google</a> in 2023 to speak freely about AI risks, called large-scale unemployment the most immediate threat to human happiness. Even with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38911101/universal-basic-income-was-a-good-idea-ai-godfather-geoffrey-hinton-warns-of-job-losses-and-extincti">universal basic income</a>, an idea he has pressed U.K. officials to study, people could lose purpose without meaningful work.
Policy makers should pair rapid reskilling with much more serious discussion of income guarantees before automation accelerates, he said, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45530155/unless-youre-sure-it-wont-kill-you-worry-about-it-says-ai-godfather-geoffrey-hinton-warning-of-superintelligence-risks">echoing earlier comments</a> that governments must act "unless you're sure [AI] won't kill you, worry about it."
For now, Hinton's counsel is blunt. He suggests choosing careers that combine adaptability, dexterity and judgment, skills algorithms still struggle to copy, because as he recently <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/conversation-godfather-ai-collision-2023-nicholas-thompson/">explained</a> to The Atlantic&#8217;s Nick Thompson back in 2023, "that's where the jobs that survive AI for a long time are going to be."
Photo Courtesy: Stokkete on Shutterstock.com
Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45965629/trump-exits-g7-summit-early-citing-obvious-reasons-amid-escalating-iran-israel-conflict-gold-oil-etfs-spike-in-after-hours-trading">Trump Exits G7 Summit Early Citing &#8216;Obvious Reasons&#8217; Amid Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict: Gold, Oil ETFs Spike In After-Hours Trading</a>

Tech

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GOOGL

Geoffrey Hinton Says Be A 'Plumber' If You Want To Have A Safe Job, 'Godfather Of AI' Says Everyone Doing 'Mundane Intellectual Labor' Will Be Replaced

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) took potshots at billionaires Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos on Monday, warning that stablecoin legislation would enable them to "exploit" user data and engage in unfair trade practices.
What happened: In an X post, Warren argued that the GENIUS Act, also known as the stablecoin bill, has a &#8220;major loophole&#8221; that allows Big Tech and major retailers to issue their own stablecoins, which, according to her, could lead to significant risks for consumers and the economy.
"If Congress doesn't fix the GENIUS Act, billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos could launch stablecoins that track your purchases, exploit your data, and squeeze out competitors," Warren alleged.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">If Congress doesn't fix the GENIUS Act, billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos could launch stablecoins that track your purchases, exploit your data, and squeeze out competitors. These billionaires will come begging for a taxpayer bailout when it inevitably blows up. <a href="https://t.co/viKxVhdcsd">pic.twitter.com/viKxVhdcsd</a>
&mdash; Elizabeth Warren (@SenWarren) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenWarren/status/1934686954588700893?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
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The senator further predicted that if the stablecoin endeavors fail, the billionaires will come "begging for a taxpayer bailout."
Benzinga didn&#8217;t immediately hear back from Amazon and Musk&#8217;s companies, Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), and SpaceX, for a response.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44621245/gold-backed-cryptos-match-yellow-metals-highs-following-trumps-liberation-day-shock"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45740537/forget-dollars-willy-woo-says-bitcoin-will-be-priced-against-global-gdp-gold-used-to-be-that-money-btc-is-the-challenger">Forget Dollars: Willy Woo Says Bitcoin Will Be Priced Against Global GDP — &#8216;Gold Used To Be That Money, BTC Is The Challenger&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: Warren's attack comes after reports that Walmart Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) and Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/45923585/walmart-amazon-eye-stablecoin-adoption-in-a-potential-shift-from-traditional-currencies-report">were exploring the possibility of issuing their own stablecoins</a>.
Warren had also raised concerns over Meta Platforms Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45923283/elizabeth-warren-slams-mark-zuckerberg-over-reported-stablecoin-ambitions-citing-national-security-threat-meta-says-no-such-plans">potential stablecoin revival plans</a> in a letter to CEO Mark Zuckerberg last week. Meta denied any such plans in a note to Benzinga.
The senior lawmaker has been waging a battle against the GENIUS Act, stating that passing the legislation without necessary amendments would <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45509721/elizabeth-warren-urges-congress-to-vote-against-genius-act-citing-potential-for-trumps-corruptionanthony-scaramucci-warns-democrats-against-political-suicide">enable corruption and illegal activities</a>. She has specifically spoken about the involvement of President Donald Trump and his family in the space.
The GENIUS Act aims to transform stablecoins from a crypto settlement tool into a mainstream financial rail. It is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45947687/stablecoins-set-to-be-internets-digital-cash-genius-act-may-position-us-as-global-hub-says-bernstein">scheduled for a Senate vote this week</a> and is expected to pass by the end of summer.
Price Action:&nbsp; Shares of Amazon were down 1.14% in after-hours trading after closing 1.89% higher at $216.10 during Monday&#8217;s regular trading session, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.&nbsp;Walmart shares fell 0.20% in after-hours trading.
AMZN demonstrated a very high growth score as of this writing. To find out how it stacks up against Walmart on this metric, click <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="562" height="415" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17005423/image-249.png" alt="" class="wp-image-951592" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17005423/image-249.png 562w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17005423/image-249-300x222.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 562px) 100vw, 562px" /></a></figure>
 Photo courtesy: Sheila Fitzgerald / Shutterstock.com
Read Next:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45942372/anthony-scaramucci-welcomes-philippe-laffonts-bitcoin-advocacy-after-billionaire-hedge-fund-manager-says-apex-crypto-has-become-central-to-investment-portfolios">Anthony Scaramucci Welcomes Philippe Laffont&#8217;s Bitcoin Advocacy After Billionaire Hedge Fund Manager Says Apex Crypto Has Become &#8216;Central&#8217; To Investment Portfolios</a></li>
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

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Elizabeth Warren Says Billionaires Like Jeff Bezos And Elon Musk Will 'Track Your Purchases' If Allowed To Launch Stablecoins, And Stick You With The Bill When It 'Blows Up'

Israel&#8217;s attacks on Iran&#8217;s energy infrastructure is causing a run-up in global energy prices, with futures markets, and ETFs, all seeing substantial inflows.
What Happened: Attacks on Iran&#8217;s Shahran oil depot in Tehran, alongside a natural gas field and multiple oil refineries by Israeli forces over the weekend, are sending global energy prices soaring, with Brent crude oil futures trading at $73.54 a barrel, up 9.1% over the past week.
The attacks that are part of Israel&#8217;s ongoing campaign against Iran have been focused on the nation&#8217;s energy infrastructure, and not just its military assets. This is aimed at sowing further discontent among the Iranian populace, who are already dealing with blackouts and power cuts due to mismanagement, according to a <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/06/15/israel-is-attacking-iran-where-the-regime-fears-most/">report</a> by The Telegraph, a U.K.. daily.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45965629/trump-exits-g7-summit-early-citing-obvious-reasons-amid-escalating-iran-israel-conflict-gold-oil-etfs-spike-in-after-hours-trading">Trump Exits G7 Summit Early Citing &#8216;Obvious Reasons&#8217; Amid Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict: Gold, Oil ETFs Spike In After-Hours Trading</a>
Brent crude for August delivery surged more than 7% Friday to settle above $78 a barrel, its largest one-day gain in nearly six months. WTI futures also jumped 6.69% over the past week, before paring gains on Monday as ceasefire rumors circulated.
Energy ETFs such as the ProShares Ultra Bloomberg Crude Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UCO#NYSE">UCO</a>), the United States Oil Fund LP (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>), and the SPDR S&amp;P Oil &amp; Gas Exploration &amp; Production ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOP#NYSE">XOP</a>) all saw outsized gains over the past week, at 13.61%, 8.90%, and 5.59%, respectively.
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<th>ETF</th>
<th class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">1-Week Performance</th>
<th class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">YTD Performance</th>
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<td>ProShares Ultra Bloomberg Crude Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UCO#NYSE">UCO</a>)</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">+13.61%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">-8.61%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>United States Oil Fund LP (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>)</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">+8.90%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">+2.16%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SPDR S&amp;P Oil &amp; Gas Exploration &amp; Production ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XOP#NYSE">XOP</a>)</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">+5.59%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">-1.28%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>)</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">+3.88%</td>
<td class="has-text-align-center" data-align="center">+1.36%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
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Why It Matters: On Monday, President Donald Trump asked all U.S. citizens to &#8220;immediately&#8221; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/events/25/06/45964856/trump-asks-everyone-to-immediately-evacuate-tehran-odds-of-us-striking-iran-spike-on-crypto-betting-platform">evacuate the city</a> of Tehran, highlighting the seriousness of the crisis, while increasing the likelihood of the United States joining Israel in its war against Iran.
The crisis has since led to a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/06/45948662/iran-israel-tensions-fuel-oil-rally-investors-are-piling-into-energy-etfs">rally in energy ETFs</a>, with the likes of the Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund seeing their biggest inflows since October 2024, at $470 million. 
Analysts at ING and JPMorgan have warned that a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/06/45924154/the-120-oil-shock-just-became-a-real-risk-are-we-back-in-2022">protracted supply hit</a> could send prices to upwards of $120 a barrel, adding that &#8220;Iran is a meaningful oil producer, pumping 3.3 million barrels per day and exporting around 1.7 million.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="190" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17000014/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-9.29.59-AM-1024x190.png" alt="" class="wp-image-951559" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17000014/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-9.29.59-AM-1024x190.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17000014/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-9.29.59-AM-300x56.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17000014/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-9.29.59-AM-768x143.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/17000014/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-9.29.59-AM.png 1174w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
According to Benzinga&#8217;s Edge Stock Rankings, the United States Oil Fund has a strong momentum, along with a favorable price trend in the short, medium, and long term. Click <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">here</a> for deeper insights.
Read More: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/events/25/06/45964856/trump-asks-everyone-to-immediately-evacuate-tehran-odds-of-us-striking-iran-spike-on-crypto-betting-platform">Trump Asks &#8216;Everyone&#8217; To Immediately Evacuate Tehran, Odds Of US Striking Iran Spike On Crypto Betting Platform</a></li>
</ul>

Commodities

Israel Is Pounding Iran's Energy Infrastructure And It's Sending These Oil ETFs Soaring, But It Maybe Bad News At The Gas Pump

Macro Economic Events

Econ #s

Economics

BBJP

WisdomTree Trust Japan Total Dividend Fund

Reported Earlier, Japan Interest Rate Decision Unchanged At 0.50%

Senate Republicans seek to end the $7500 EV credit currently available on EV purchases amid U.S. President <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45943245/trump-says-he-was-amazed-that-tesla-ceo-elon-musk-endorsed-him-despite-his-anti-ev-stance">Donald Trump's crackdown</a> on all-electric mobility in the country.&nbsp;
What Happened: The GOP representatives in the Senate want to end the Federal EV credit within 180 days after the proposal is signed into law, Reuters reported on Monday.
The proposal also seeks to end the $4000 credit on used EVs within 90 days of the bill's approval, as well as an immediate end to the $7500 credit on EVs manufactured outside of the U.S., the report suggests.
According to the report, Senate Republicans&#8217; tax proposal differs from the bill proposed by House Republicans, which states that automakers that have yet to hit the 200,000 EV units sold can still avail the credit till the end of 2026.
Why It Matters: The proposal is in line with the Trump administration's crackdown on EVs, as a part of which, the President <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45911368/trump-signs-resolutions-to-overturn-californias-ev-mandate-report">signed a resolution</a> that overturned California's EV mandate that sought to phase out ICE-powered vehicles by 2035. 11 other states also adopted the California bill.
Trump's reversal of the resolution could be a major boost for General Motors Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>), which was against the California mandate due to it not reflecting the reality of the market, according to a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45488137/general-motors-wants-to-overturn-californias-aggressive-ev-mandate-as-demand-slows-in-the-us-report">company-wide email</a> the management shared.
The President also hinted that he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45919154/trump-says-he-may-hike-auto-tariffs-again-to-boost-domestic-production-the-higher-you-go-they-build-a-plant-here">may hike automotive tariffs</a> in a bid to boost domestic production in the U.S., casting more uncertainty over the auto industry, which is already grappling with supply chain issues and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/05/45217767/ford-ceo-jim-farley-says-trumps-tariffs-could-cost-ford-1-5-billion-pulls-its-earnings-guidance">tariff-related woes</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility"> following this link.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45942936/elon-musks-cybercab-ambitions-just-got-a-boost-as-nhtsa-eases-regulations-for-autonomous-vehicles">Elon Musk&#8217;s Cybercab Ambitions Just Got A Boost As NHTSA Eases Regulations For Autonomous Vehicles</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Joey Sussman / Shutterstock.com

Amid Trump's Anti-EV Push, Senate Republicans Propose Tax Bill To Axe $7500 EV Credit

President Donald Trump cut short his Group of Seven summit attendance in Canada&#8217;s Kananaskis, citing escalating Iran-Israel hostilities that demanded immediate attention in Washington. 
What Happened: &#8220;I have to be back early for obvious reasons,&#8221; Trump said on Monday before departing after dinner.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">.<a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a> on his early departure from the G7 Summit: &quot;I have to be back early — for obvious reasons.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/vtM4wwy1r9">pic.twitter.com/vtM4wwy1r9</a>
&mdash; Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1934773306324042177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
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The president&#8217;s early exit coincided with significant market volatility as safe-haven assets surged. Gold futures climbed to approximately $3,390 per ounce Monday, gaining 0.09% amid Middle East tensions.
WTI crude oil futures rose to around $72.8 per barrel as Israel vowed continued strikes against Iran, raising concerns about potential energy supply disruptions.
See Also: 
Why It Matters: Gold ETFs demonstrated strong after-hours performance. SPDR Gold Shares (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>) gained 0.55% to $313.48 after closing down 1.43%. iShares Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IAU#NYSE">IAU</a>) added 0.36% after hours, while SPDR Gold MiniShares (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLDM#NYSE">GLDM</a>) rose 0.51%.
Oil-related ETFs showed even stronger momentum. United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>) surged 2.66% after hours to $80.68 following a 2.03% regular session decline. ProShares Ultra Bloomberg Crude Oil (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UCO#NYSE">UCO</a>) jumped 3.30% after hours, recovering from earlier losses.
The president previously posted on Truth Social, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/45965340/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-lose-early-gains-after-trumps-immediately-evacuate-warning-amid-iran-israel-conflict-analyst-sees-great-signal-for-risk-on-app">urging Tehran&#8217;s resident</a>s to &#8220;immediately evacuate&#8221; without elaboration.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45965418/lockheed-martins-f-35-jets-spark-outcry-in-madison-as-pentagon-rejects-18-million-noise-mitigation-grant">Lockheed Martin&#8217;s F-35 Jets Spark Outcry In Madison As Pentagon Rejects $18 Million Noise Mitigation Grant</a></li>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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GLDM

Trump Exits G7 Summit Early Citing 'Obvious Reasons' Amid Escalating Iran-Israel Conflict: Gold, Oil ETFs Spike In After-Hours Trading

Eric Trump, the executive vice president of The Trump Organization, denied any involvement with Justin Sun's Tron (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/trx/usd">TRX</a>) venture on Monday, which is purportedly planning to go public in the U.S.
What happened: Trump spoke highly of the controversial cryptocurrency billionaire in an X post.
"I'm the biggest fan of Tron and love Justin Sun—he is a great friend and an icon in the crypto space," he wrote.&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">.<a href="https://twitter.com/tier10k?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tier10k</a> I'm the biggest fan of Tron and love <a href="https://twitter.com/justinsuntron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@justinsuntron</a> &#8211; he is a great friend and an icon in the crypto space. That said the below is inaccurate &#8211; I don't have public involvement. <a href="https://t.co/CDt0uudY1s">https://t.co/CDt0uudY1s</a>
&mdash; Eric Trump (@EricTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/EricTrump/status/1934669116046029272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
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However, in the next breath, he categorically denied an earlier Financial Times report that claimed he is expected to join Justin Sun&#8217;s upcoming venture in an official role.
"That said the below is inaccurate &#8211; I don't have public involvement," he said.
The Financial Times didn't immediately return Benzinga's request for comment.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44621245/gold-backed-cryptos-match-yellow-metals-highs-following-trumps-liberation-day-shock"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45740537/forget-dollars-willy-woo-says-bitcoin-will-be-priced-against-global-gdp-gold-used-to-be-that-money-btc-is-the-challenger">Forget Dollars: Willy Woo Says Bitcoin Will Be Priced Against Global GDP — &#8216;Gold Used To Be That Money, BTC Is The Challenger&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: Trump's denial comes hours after the Financial Times reported that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/45951049/justin-suns-tron-plans-us-public-listing-amid-deepening-ties-with-trump-family-and-crypto-political-shift">Tron is planning to go public</a> in the U.S. through a reverse merger with collectibles company SRM Entertainment (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRM#NASDAQ">SRM</a>).
The report also mentioned that a New York-based investment firm linked to President Donald Trump‘s sons, Eric and Donald Jr., is facilitating the deal, which mirrors the playbook used by Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) holding company Strategy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>).
Sun has strengthened his relationship with the Trumps lately.&nbsp; Apart from being a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42198909/trump-linked-crypto-platform-world-liberty-financial-appoints-justin-sun-as-advisor-after-30-million-investment">leading investor and advisor</a> at World Liberty Financial, the decentralized finance platform backed by the Trump family, he was invited to an exclusive dinner with Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45367052/trump-memecoin-exclusive-dinner-guest-list-revealed-with-justin-sun-shining-at-the-top-rep">as the largest investor</a> in Official Trump (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">TRUMP</a>) memecoin.
Notably, Sun and the SEC had <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/44543856/justin-sun-features-on-forbes-cover-talks-crypto-and-trump-linked-investments">stopped litigation early this year</a> to resolve claims of unregistered securities sales and market manipulation against Sun and his companies.
Price Action:&nbsp; At the time of writing, TRX was exchanging hands at $0.2761, up 2.07% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.&nbsp;
Shares of SRM tumble 11% in after-hours trading after closing an eye-popping 537.9% higher at $9.249 during Monday&#8217;s regular trading session.
SRM demonstrated a very high momentum score—a measure of the stock's relative strength based on its price movement patterns and volatility over multiple timeframes—as of this writing. To find out how it stacks against MSTR and other cryptocurrency-related companies, visit <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="565" height="408" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16235246/Screenshot-2025-06-17-091110.png" alt="" class="wp-image-951554" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16235246/Screenshot-2025-06-17-091110.png 565w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16235246/Screenshot-2025-06-17-091110-300x217.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 565px) 100vw, 565px" /></a></figure>
Photo Courtesy: Maxim Elramsisy On Shutterstock.com
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45942372/anthony-scaramucci-welcomes-philippe-laffonts-bitcoin-advocacy-after-billionaire-hedge-fund-manager-says-apex-crypto-has-become-central-to-investment-portfolios">Anthony Scaramucci Welcomes Philippe Laffont&#8217;s Bitcoin Advocacy After Billionaire Hedge Fund Manager Says Apex Crypto Has Become &#8216;Central&#8217; To Investment Portfolios</a></li>
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$BTC

$TRUMP

$TRX

MSTR

Eric Trump Says He Doesn't Have 'Public Involvement' In Justin Sun's MSTR-Type Public Venture, But Admits He's A 'Fan' Of Tron And Its Founder

OpenAI has secured a $200 million defense contract to develop artificial intelligence capabilities for national security applications, according to contracts released by the Department of Defense on Monday.
What Happened: The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office awarded the fixed-amount prototype agreement for &#8220;frontier AI capabilities to address critical national security challenges in both warfighting and enterprise domains,&#8221; the Pentagon stated. Work will be performed primarily in the National Capital Region through July 2026.
The contract represents OpenAI&#8217;s largest known government deal as the company simultaneously pursues a $40 billion funding round led by SoftBank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>). Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia&#8217;s Public Investment Fund and India&#8217;s Reliance Industries could each contribute <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45898547/openai-looks-to-raise-40-billion-from-global-investors-including-saudi-arabias-pif-indias-reliance-industries-to-accelerate-ai-models-and-stargate-report">several hundred million dollars to the financing</a>.
OpenAI&#8217;s revenue growth has accelerated dramatically, reaching a $10 billion annualized run rate in June, nearly doubling from $5.5 billion at 2024&#8217;s end, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45852700/openai-surges-past-10-billion-in-annualized-revenue-amid-record-chatgpt-use-leaves-rivals-like-amazon-backed-anthropic-behind">according to company statements</a>. The figure excludes Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) licensing revenue and one-time deals.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/treasuries/25/06/45960637/treasury-yields-near-5-after-soft-foreign-demand-a-red-flag-for-stocks">Treasury Yields Near 5% After Soft Foreign Demand: A Red Flag For Stocks?</a>
Why It Matters: ChatGPT usage has surged to 500 million weekly active users as of March, driving the revenue expansion. The company targets $12.7 billion in 2025 revenue after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45852700/openai-surges-past-10-billion-in-annualized-revenue-amid-record-chatgpt-use-leaves-rivals-like-amazon-backed-anthropic-behind">posting a $5 billion loss in 2024</a>.
The defense contract coincides with OpenAI&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/05/45665394/openais-300-billion-public-benefit-shift-faces-scrutiny-as-delaware-ag-moves-to-hire-investment-bank-for-independent-valuation-report">complex $300 billion corporate restructuring</a> into a public-benefit corporation. Delaware&#8217;s attorney general is independently valuing the nonprofit parent&#8217;s equity stake, while Microsoft disputes its ownership percentage in the new structure.
OpenAI faces a year-end deadline to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/05/45665394/openais-300-billion-public-benefit-shift-faces-scrutiny-as-delaware-ag-moves-to-hire-investment-bank-for-independent-valuation-report">complete the restructuring or risk losing</a> up to $20 billion from SoftBank. The funding supports AI model development and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44188361/nvidia-powers-openai-and-oracles-100-billion-stargate-first-ai-data-center-set-to-launch-in-texas">the $100 billion Stargate infrastructure project</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44188361/nvidia-powers-openai-and-oracles-100-billion-stargate-first-ai-data-center-set-to-launch-in-texas" target="_blank" rel="noopener">,</a> featuring Oracle Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) and Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) GB200 chips, at facilities in Texas.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45952716/stock-market-today-sp500-rises-iran-israel-nasdaq-near-record-highs">Wall Street Roars Back As Iran Signals De-Escalation: Nasdaq 100 Nears All-Time High</a></li>
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Svet foto / Shutterstock.com

MSFT

NVDA

ORCL

SFTBY

OpenAI Wins $200 Million US Defense Contract For AI Warfare Capabilities As The Company Looks To Raise $40 Billion

The Pentagon has denied Wisconsin&#8217;s $18 million grant application for noise mitigation funding to address F-35 fighter jet noise affecting Madison residents, while simultaneously cutting Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45890410/lockheed-martin-stock-slides-wednesday-whats-going-on">aircraft orders in half amid broader defense budget reductions</a>.
What Happened: Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) expressed disappointment over the Office of Local Defense Community Cooperation&#8217;s decision to reject Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs&#8217; funding request. 
The grant would have provided sound insulation for over 160 homes near Truax Field, along with new windows and HVAC systems for residents impacted by elevated noise levels from F-35 operations.
Since F-35 deployment at Truax Field began in 2020, Pocan&#8217;s office has documented consistent resident complaints about noise levels and concerns over potential property damage and health impacts.
The congressman secured $50 million in fiscal 2021 appropriations for the Noise Mitigation Community Partnership Program specifically to address these Madison-area concerns.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/market-summary/25/06/45918802/middle-east-tensions-rattle-markets-us-stock-futures-slide-oil-jumps-8-gold-surges-above-3400-after-israel-strikes-iran">Middle East Tensions Rattle Markets: US Stock Futures Slide, Oil Jumps 8%, Gold Surges Above $3,400 After Israel Strikes Iran</a>
Why It Matters: The grant denial coincides with Pentagon budget cuts that have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45877736/lockheed-martin-hit-as-pentagon-slashes-air-forces-f-35-order-in-half-amid-budget-cuts">significantly impacted Lockheed Martin&#8217;s F-35 program</a>.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth&#8216;s directive mandates 8% annual spending reductions over five years, leading to the Air Force&#8217;s F-35A request being slashed from 48 to 24 aircraft for fiscal 2026.
Congressional procurement documents show the Air Force will request $3.5 billion for F-35 purchases plus $531 million for advance procurement, down from previous projections. The Navy&#8217;s request dropped to 12 carrier variants from 17, while Marine Corps orders fell by two aircraft.
Pocan has requested detailed explanations for the grant denial and demanded that Pentagon officials visit Madison to meet directly with affected residents.
LMT gained 2.33% during Thursday's regular session. According to Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings, the stock shows modest strength in momentum, growth, and quality factors. However, it scores poorly on valuation and exhibits a negative price trend over the short to long term. See the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">full stock breakdown here</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full is-resized"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="880" height="610" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/13043512/image-216.png" alt="" class="wp-image-948660" style="width:374px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/13043512/image-216.png 880w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/13043512/image-216-300x208.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/13043512/image-216-768x532.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 880px) 100vw, 880px" /></a></figure>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45919464/boeing-faces-fresh-turmoil-as-india-mulls-787-8-grounding-after-fatal-crash-ceo-kelly-cancels-paris-trip-report">Boeing Faces Fresh Turmoil As India Mulls 787-8 Grounding, Safety Review After Fatal Crash, CEO Kelly Cancels Paris Trip: Report</a></li>
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image Via Shutterstock

Equities

Lockheed Martin's F-35 Jets Spark Outcry In Madison As Pentagon Rejects $18 Million Noise Mitigation Grant

Scale AI founder Alexandr Wang says he will hold off on parenthood until children can be born into a world where brain-computer interfaces such as Elon Musk's Neuralink are routine.
What Happened: "When we get Neuralink and we get these other technologies, kids who are born with them are gonna learn how to use them in like crazy, crazy ways," Wang told The Shawn Ryan Show, calling the devices "superintelligence&#8221; for the next generation.
Wang argued that the first seven years of life offer unmatched "neuroplastic" potential and therefore the best window to fuse biology with silicon. "Your brain is more neuroplastic than at any other point in your life," he said, adding that early adopters will leverage interfaces in ways adults can't. Scientists at NIH define &#8216;neuroplasticity&#8217; as the brain&#8217;s ability to adapt and change.
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His stance comes as Neuralink's first three human patients, one of whom can edit video by thought alone, drew headlines and scrutiny alike. Musk's coin-size implant is still in U.S. clinical trials, but he recently touted 100 days of "full recovery" for the inaugural participant even while acknowledging a signal-drop malfunction.
Rivals Synchron, backed by Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) co-founder Bill Gates and Amazon.com (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) founder Jeff Bezos, and Motif Neurotech have logged similar breakthroughs, suggesting commercial options could arrive before the decade's end.
See also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/06/45946614/boeing-projects-demand-for-43600-jets-over-next-20-years-asia-single-aisle-planes-to-lead-the-charge">Boeing Projects Demand For 43,600 Jets Over Next 20 Years—Asia, Single-Aisle Planes To Lead The Charge</a>
Why It Matters: Wang's timeline dovetails with his professional leap. Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), last week, agreed to buy a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45939001/meta-in-talks-to-invest-over-10b-in-scale-ai-possibly-the-biggest-private-ai-deal-this-year">49% stake</a> in Scale AI for $15 billion and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45880561/meta-on-the-verge-of-a-15-billion-deal-with-scale-ai-report">tapped him</a> to help lead a "superintelligence" lab aimed at closing the gap with OpenAI and 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>) Google.
A report earlier today revealed that Google has begun <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45943342/google-microsoft-elon-musks-xai-reportedly-cut-ties-with-scale-ai-after-mark-zuckerbergs-meta-buys-stake">shifting its data-labeling contracts</a> to Scale AI's rivals after Meta bought a stake in the startup. The search giant had planned to pay Scale about $200 million for human-labeled training data this year, but it is now negotiating with alternative vendors. Microsoft and Elon Musk's xAI have also cooled their ties, leaving Scale's $870 million-a-year business vulnerable just as CEO Alexandr Wang heads to Meta.
Benzinga's Edge Stock&nbsp;Rankings&nbsp;show that Meta has a positive Price Trend in the Short, Medium and Long term. Here is how the stock is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ranked</a>&nbsp;on other metrics.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="141" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16094054/image-243-1024x141.png" alt="" class="wp-image-950803" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16094054/image-243-1024x141.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16094054/image-243-300x41.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16094054/image-243-768x106.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16094054/image-243.png 1376w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
Photo Courtesy: Kemarrravv13 on Shutterstock.com Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/45948610/a-newlywed-tells-dave-ramsey-her-husbands-spending-is-a-problem-when-he-gets-paid-he-wants-to-get-his-hair-done">A Newlywed Tells Dave Ramsey Her Husband&#8217;s Spending Is A Problem—&#8217;When He Gets Paid, He Wants To Get His Hair Done&#8217;</a>

Meta's 'Superintelligence' Lab Hire Alexandr Wang Says He'll Wait for Elon Musk's Neuralink Before Having Kids — Here's Why

Leading cryptocurrencies erased early gains Monday as President Donald Trump asked citizens of Tehran, Iran's capital, to "immediately" evacuate the city amid escalating Iran-Israel conflict.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Cryptocurrency</th>
<th>Gains +/-</th>
<th>Price (Recorded at 10:30 p.m. ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+0.90%</td>
<td>$106,721.09</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>-0.29%</td>
<td>$2,561.52</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>-1.29%</td>
<td>$0.1731</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin nearly hit $109,000 late evening, marking a sharp recovery from the downsides triggered due to the Iran-Israel war.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Investors have been on edge since the beginning of the hostilities between the two regional rivals. However, the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45952716/stock-market-today-sp500-rises-iran-israel-nasdaq-near-record-highs"> jitters were eased</a> after reports said that Iran wants to de-escalate tensions and return to negotiations.
But the optimism seems to have faded after Trump ordered residents of the Iranian capital, Tehran, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/events/25/06/45964856/trump-asks-everyone-to-immediately-evacuate-tehran-odds-of-us-striking-iran-spike-on-crypto-betting-platform">to immediately evacuate</a>, sending stock futures and cryptocurrencies tumbling. Bitcoin fell below $107,000 on the news.
Ethereum saw a similar trajectory, rising to an intraday high of $2,680.09 only to fall below $2,500.
About $381 million was liquidated from the cryptocurrency market in the last 24 hours, with long liquidations accounting for $204 million.&nbsp;
Bitcoin&#8217;s Open Interest rose 2.91% after days of decline and flat movement. Over 60% of Binance traders with open BTC positions were positioned short, according to the long/short ratio, indicating expectations of further downside.
The "Greed" sentiment strengthened from 61 to 68, according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index.
Top Gainers (24 Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Cryptocurrency</th>
<th>Gains +/-</th>
<th>Price (Recorded at 10:30 p.m. ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Pendle (PENDLE)</td>
<td>+10.20%</td>
<td>$4.02</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Aerodrome Finance (AERO) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+9.07%</td>
<td>$0.7948</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Uniswap (UNI)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+7.03%</td>
<td> $7.56 </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.32 trillion, following an increase of 1.03% in the last 24 hours.
Stocks made a sharp recovery on Monday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 317.30 points, or 0.75%, to close at 42,515.09. The S&amp;P 500 spiked 0.94% to end at 6,033.11. The tech-focused Nasdaq Composite gained 1.52% to close at 19,701.21.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Cryptocurrency analyst and trader Rekt Capital highlighted Bitcoin&#8217;s six-week streak of holding $104,400 as support, a critical level following a breakout from a re-accumulation range
"To reiterate, this is a post-breakout retest in an effort to fully confirm the breakout from the re-accumulation range," Rekt Capital added.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> Bitcoin has officially entered its 6 consecutive week of successfully retesting $104400 as support To reiterate, this is a post-breakout retest in an effort to fully confirm the breakout from the Re-Accumulation Range<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crypto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crypto</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> <a href="https://t.co/WzBXbOKM7D">https://t.co/WzBXbOKM7D</a> <a href="https://t.co/aeF6Go9y1M">pic.twitter.com/aeF6Go9y1M</a>
&mdash; Rekt Capital (@rektcapital) <a href="https://twitter.com/rektcapital/status/1934717582835114177?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Another widely followed cryptocurrency analyst, Michaël van de Poppe, noticed the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45956228/aggressive-stock-buying-on-oil-drop-and-israel-gaining-control-of-tehran-skies">pullback</a> in gold and oil prices.
"If, this week, if Gold breaks more south and sub $3,400, that would be a great signal for risk-on appetite," Van De Poppe predicted.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">A small update here. Gold corrects slightly, and also oil is coming down. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> continues to go upwards, while <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> are outperforming. If, this week, if Gold breaks more south and sub $3,400, that would be a great signal for risk-on appetite. <a href="https://t.co/gMt8RKh8Fy">pic.twitter.com/gMt8RKh8Fy</a>
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1934649672242802998?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Photo Courtesy: Yalcin Sonat On Shutterstock.com
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Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Lose Early Gains After Trump's 'Immediately Evacuate' Warning Amid Iran-Israel Conflict: Analyst Sees 'Great' Signal For Risk-On Appetite If This Happens

Japan&#8217;s SoftBank Group Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) is reportedly looking to raise $4.9 billion via a sizable overnight stake sale.
What Happened: On Tuesday, it was revealed that the Japanese investment holding company would be raising these funds via an unregistered overnight block sale of its stake in T Mobile US Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMUS#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>), according to a <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-16/softbank-seeks-to-raise-4-9-billion-in-t-mobile-share-sale-mbzn3ujs">report</a> by Bloomberg News, which saw the terms of the deal.
SoftBank is offering 21.5 million shares in the telecom giant at a price range of $224 to $228 per share, representing a 3% discount to T-Mobile&#8217;s closing price on Monday, at $230.99.
The deal, when completed, is set to be the largest U.S. equity block sale since Toronto-Dominion Bank's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TD#NYSE">TD</a>) $13.1 billion <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/ma/25/01/42921113/deal-dispatch-td-bank-charles-schwab-eyenovia-smart-share-hit-auction-block">divestiture of its stake</a> in Charles Schwab Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCHW#NYSE">SCHW</a>) in February. It also adds to the growing wave of equity offerings by new and existing shares, reaching $91.4 billion so far in 2025, up from $75.9 billion last year.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45962262/jpmorgan-files-trademark-jpmd-crypto-trading-digital-asset-services">Dimon Called Crypto A &#8216;Ponzi Scheme&#8217;—Now JPMorgan Is Building JPMD To Trade It</a>
As of March 31, 2025, SoftBank held 85.4 million T-Mobile shares, equivalent to a 7.52% stake, which was originally acquired as part of Sprint Corp.&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/19/12/14912449/what-the-sprint-t-mobile-merger-trial-means-for-investors">$26.5 billion merger</a> with T-Mobile in 2020. SoftBank had acquired a majority stake in T-Mobile back in 2013.
Following the proposed transaction, SoftBank&#8217;s stake will shrink by 1.9 percentage points, leaving it with a roughly 5.6% stake in the company. 
The transaction is being managed by Bank of America Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), and neither SoftBank nor T-Mobile has immediately responded to Benzinga&#8217;s request for a comment.
Why It Matters: This move might prompt T-Mobile&#8217;s majority stakeholder, Deutsche Telekom AG (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DTEGY#OTC">DTEGY</a>), to vie for greater control of the company, something that it&#8217;s been pursuing for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/21/05/21199432/deutsche-telekom-eyeing-majority-stake-in-t-mobile-by-acquiring-softbanks-share-bloomberg">past several years</a>. 
SoftBank continues to pursue investment opportunities in the U.S., having led a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/43374528/softbank-may-lead-openais-40-billion-funding-round-at-a-300-billion-valuation-despite-deepseek-disruption-report">$40 billion investment round</a> in OpenAI early this year.
The company&#8217;s CEO, Masayoshi Son, had earlier committed to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42505666/softbanks-masayoshi-son-to-reportedly-announce-100b-us-investment-during-meeting-with-trump">investing $100 billion</a> in the United States during a meeting with the then President-Elect Donald Trump at Mar-a-Lago late last year.
Price Action: T-Mobile shares were up 1.31% on Monday, ending the day at $230.99, but are down 3.89% after hours following news of the stake sale.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="143" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16220626/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-7.36.11-AM-1024x143.png" alt="" class="wp-image-951496" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16220626/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-7.36.11-AM-1024x143.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16220626/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-7.36.11-AM-300x42.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16220626/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-7.36.11-AM-768x108.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/16220626/Screenshot-2025-06-17-at-7.36.11-AM.png 1528w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></a></figure>
The company&#8217;s shares show strong Momentum, and rank well on Quality according to Benzinga&#8217;s Edge Stock Rankings, but only have a favorable price trend in the long term. See <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">here</a> for deeper insights into the stock, the company, its peers, and competitors.
Photo Courtesy: Koshiro K on Shutterstock.com
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/events/25/06/45964856/trump-asks-everyone-to-immediately-evacuate-tehran-odds-of-us-striking-iran-spike-on-crypto-betting-platform">Trump Asks &#8216;Everyone&#8217; To Immediately Evacuate Tehran, Odds Of US Striking Iran Spike On Crypto Betting Platform</a></li>
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DTEGY

SCHW

TMUS

SoftBank Moves To Raise $4.9 Billion With Overnight T-Mobile Block Sale— Stock Drops 4% After Hours As Investors Digest Discount

On Monday, Cathie Wood-led Ark Invest made significant trades involving NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), Circle Internet Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRCL#NYSE">CRCL</a>), and DoorDash Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DASH#NASDAQ">DASH</a>). These trades reflect Ark&#8217;s strategic positioning amidst evolving market dynamics.
The Nvidia Trade saw Ark Invest&#8217;s flagship fund, ARK Innovation ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKK#BATS">ARKK</a>), acquiring 128,163 shares of Nvidia. This purchase comes in the wake of <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45885805/nvidias-jensen-huang-sparks-quantum-stock-frenzy">recent comments</a> by CEO Jensen Huang about quantum computing&#8217;s potential, which has invigorated investor interest. Additionally, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45918580/nvidia-drops-china-from-guidance-after-2-5-billion-q1-revenue-hit-ceo-jensen-huang-says-hes-not-counting-on-us-lifting-export-controls-but-if-it-happens-it-will-be-a-great-bonus">Nvidia&#8217;s decision</a> to exclude China from its revenue forecasts due to U.S. export restrictions has been a pivotal move. For the day, Nvidia stock closed at $144.69. The Ark trade was valued at $18.54 million.
The Meta Platforms Trade involved ARKK selling 26,387 shares of the Mark Zuckerberg-led social media giant. Meta has been leading the &#8220;Magnificent Seven&#8221; stocks, delivering a nearly 19% return as of early June, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/45886077/meta-pulls-ahead-of-the-mag-7-analysts-predict-a-breakout-year">analyst predictions</a>. This sale indicates Ark&#8217;s strategy to capitalize on Meta&#8217;s strong performance. Meta shares have risen over 17% since the year began. On Monday, the stock ended the day at $702.12. The value of the Ark trades was $18.52 million.
The Circle Trade saw Ark Invest reducing its stake in Circle Internet Group Inc. by selling 196,367 shares through ARKK and 92,310 shares via ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKW#BATS">ARKW</a>). Circle&#8217;s stock has been on an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45955267/circle-internet-group-crcl-stock-hits-new-highs-whats-going-on">upward trajectory</a> since its IPO. On Monday, the stock rose 13.1% to $151.06. Over a 24-hour period, the shares ranged between $145.88 to $165.60 with Circle shares hitting an all-time high. Based on the price action, the Ark trade was valued at $43.6 million.
The DoorDash Trade involved Ark&#8217;s ARKF, ARKW, and the ARK Autonomous Technology &amp; Robotics ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKQ#BATS">ARKQ</a>) funds collectively purchasing 139,236 shares of DoorDash Inc.. DoorDash&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/restaurants/25/05/45707630/is-doordash-planning-to-gobble-up-europe-company-strikes-3-9-billion-deal-to-buy-uk-food-delivery-company-deliveroo">strategic expansion</a> into Europe through its acquisition of Deliveroo has been in the headlines. For the day, DoorDash stock closed at $221.73. The value of the Ark trade was $30.9 million.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45946608/top-3-materials-stocks-that-could-blast-off-this-month-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Top 3 Materials Stocks That Could Blast Off This Month</a>
Other Key Trades:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Sold 118,767 shares of Magna International Inc. from ARKQ.</li>
<li>Sold 262,449 shares of UiPath Inc. from ARKQ.</li>
<li>Bought 215,830 shares of BWX Technologies Inc. from ARKK.</li>
</ul>
Photo Courtesy: ChrisStock82 on Shutterstock.com
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45944854/irans-missile-stockpile-may-be-shrinking-as-strikes-on-israel-taper-off-says-think-tank-lmt-rtx-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Iran&#8217;s Missile Stockpile May Be Shrinking As Strikes On Israel Taper Off, Says Think Tank: LMT, RTX, GD In Focus</a></li>
</ul>
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/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

ETFs

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ARKW

CRCL

DASH

Cathie Wood's Monday Shuffle: Buys Nvidia, Sells Meta — Ark Also Dumps Hot Circle Stock

President Donald Trump asked citizens of Tehran, Iran&#8217;s capital, to &#8220;immediately&#8221; evacuate the city on Monday, as cryptocurrency bettors increased the likelihood that the U.S. would join Israel in the war against the Middle Eastern country.
What happened: Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social, "Iran should have signed the &#8216;deal' I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON."
Trump then asked people to "immediately" evacuate the capital city of Tehran, home to around 10 million people.
<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">&quot;Iran should have signed the "deal" I told them to sign. What a shame, and waste of human life. Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!&quot; –President Donald J. Trump <a href="https://t.co/oniUSgsMWA">pic.twitter.com/oniUSgsMWA</a>
&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1934745869821370570?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Trump will also cut short his G7 summit "because of what's going on in the Middle East," said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">President Trump had a great day at the G7, even signing a major trade deal with the United Kingdom and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Much was accomplished, but because of what's going on in the Middle East, President Trump will be leaving tonight after dinner with Heads of State.
&mdash; Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) <a href="https://twitter.com/PressSec/status/1934755141082861736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
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See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44621245/gold-backed-cryptos-match-yellow-metals-highs-following-trumps-liberation-day-shock"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45740537/forget-dollars-willy-woo-says-bitcoin-will-be-priced-against-global-gdp-gold-used-to-be-that-money-btc-is-the-challenger">Forget Dollars: Willy Woo Says Bitcoin Will Be Priced Against Global GDP — &#8216;Gold Used To Be That Money, BTC Is The Challenger&#8217;</a>
Meanwhile, the likelihood that the U.S. will take military action against Iran before July jumped by 15 percentage points to <a href="https://polymarket.com/event/us-military-action-against-iran-before-july">44%</a> in the last 24 hours on the Polygon (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">POL</a>)-based Polymarket.
More than $5.3 million has been wagered on the bet, and the market would resolve to "Yes" if the U.S. initiates a military action on Iranian soil, airspace, or maritime territory or against any Iranian embassies or consulates before June 30.
Why It Matters: Israel has been launching strikes on Iran since Thursday of last week, but the U.S. has stayed out of the conflict. 
While Iran has also launched missile attacks in response, their frequency has decreased as a result of Israel&#8217;s targeted strikes on<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45944854/irans-missile-stockpile-may-be-shrinking-as-strikes-on-israel-taper-off-says-think-tank-lmt-rtx-"> Iran&#8217;s missile stockpile and launch capability</a>, reports suggested.
Previously, Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45940864/trump-threatens-iran-with-unprecedented-us-military-action-in-case-of-attack-if-we-are-attacked-in-any-way-us-armed-forces-will-come-down-on-you-at-levels-never-seen-before">warned Iran that any attack on U.S. forces</a> or land would be met with an unprecedented military response.
Amid geopolitical tensions, Iranian lawmakers were <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45964516/iran-considers-bill-to-exit-nuclear-treaty-that-prevents-spread-of-atomic-weapons-israels-actions-affect-strategic-decisions">contemplating a legislative move</a> that could see the nation withdraw from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty
Photo Courtesy: Joey Sussman on Shutterstock.com
Read Next:&nbsp;
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$POL

Trump Asks 'Everyone' To Immediately Evacuate Tehran, Odds Of US Striking Iran Spike On Crypto Betting Platform

Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Iranian lawmakers are contemplating a significant legislative move that could see the nation withdraw from the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. This development, confirmed by the foreign ministry on Monday, comes as geopolitical strains with Israel intensify.
What Happened: Iranian lawmakers are drafting a bill that could lead Tehran to withdraw from the NPT, as stated by the foreign ministry on Monday. According to Reuters, this move comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and accusations regarding Iran&#8217;s nuclear ambitions.
The NPT, which Iran joined in 1970, allows nations to develop civilian nuclear power while prohibiting the creation of nuclear weapons. However, Iran&#8217;s nuclear activities have been under scrutiny, with the International Atomic Energy Agency recently declaring Tehran in violation of its NPT commitments. Despite this, Iran maintains that its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson&nbsp;Esmaeil Baghaei&nbsp;mentioned that the government must enforce parliamentary bills, but coordination with parliament is still in the early stages. He also noted that recent events, such as an attack by Israel, influence Iran&#8217;s strategic decisions. Israel, which is believed to have nuclear weapons, has accused Iran of nearing nuclear bomb development, a claim Iran denies.
The spokesperson said that Israel&#8217;s military action &#8220;naturally affect the strategic decisions of the state.&#8221;
Iranian President&nbsp;Masoud Pezeshkian&nbsp;reiterated that nuclear weapons contradict&nbsp;a religious edict by Supreme&nbsp;Leader&nbsp;Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. As of now, no final decision has been made by the Iranian parliament regarding leaving the NPT.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/news/social-media/25/06/45941129/elon-musk-criticized-for-linking-minnesota-assasination-to-far-left" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Criticized for Linking Minnesota Assassination to &#8216;Far Left&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: The potential withdrawal from the NPT by Iran comes on the heels of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45933856/iran-fires-ballistic-missiles-at-israel-tel-aviv-struck">series of military escalations</a> with Israel. Last week, Iran launched ballistic missiles at Israel, marking a significant escalation in hostilities. This was a direct response to Israeli air raids on Iranian targets.
Despite these tensions, there are signs of potential de-escalation. Iran has reportedly expressed a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45952716/stock-market-today-sp500-rises-iran-israel-nasdaq-near-record-highs">willingness to resume</a> negotiations over its nuclear program, provided the United States stays out of the conflict, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. This development could ease geopolitical jitters that have recently impacted global markets.
Furthermore, the ongoing conflict has influenced global oil markets, with investors pouring into energy stocks, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/06/45948662/iran-israel-tensions-fuel-oil-rally-investors-are-piling-into-energy-etfs">anticipating continued volatility</a> in the region. The Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLE#NYSE">XLE</a>) saw a significant influx of capital following the recent military actions. On Monday, XLE ended the day 0.3% lower at $87.84. Photo Courtesy: rarrarorro on Shutterstock.com
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

General

Iran Considers Bill To Exit Nuclear Treaty That Prevents Spread Of Atomic Weapons: Israel's Actions Affect 'Strategic Decisions'

Biotech

RSLS

ReShape Lifesciences Will Be Issued US Patent Number 12,329,972 Tomorrow Titled "HIGH-FREQUENCY LOW DUTY CYCLE PATTERNS FOR NERUAL REGULATION (FOR TREATMENT OF GI CONDITIONS INCLUDING OBESITY & OTHER EATING DISORDERS, IBD, PANCREATITIS, DIABETES, AND HYPERTENSION)"

Disney (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>) and Universal, the powerhouse studios behind Star Wars, Frozen, and Kung Fu Panda, have filed a major copyright lawsuit involving an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45847032/ibm-acquires-ai-startup-seek-and-launches-500m-backed-watsonx-ai-labs-in-nyc-to-tackle-data-innovation-with-agentic-intelligence">AI startup</a>, described by <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/business-news/disney-universal-sue-ai-startup-midjourney-plagiarism/493100">Entrepreneur</a> as a potential first for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45651756/streaming-wars-heat-up-how-moonvalleys-123m-ai-bet-could-shape-hollywoods-future">Hollywood</a>. The case targets Midjourney, a text-to-image generator that allegedly enabled users to produce visuals featuring copyrighted characters owned by the studios.
Filed in the U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, the 110-page complaint accuses Midjourney of building a commercial enterprise off protected intellectual property. According to the lawsuit, the studios had issued cease-and-desist letters to Midjourney's counsel, demanding the unauthorized content be stopped.
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&#8220;Midjourney, which has attracted millions of subscribers and made $300 million last year alone, is focused on its own bottom line and ignored Plaintiffs' demands,&#8221; the filing reads. When those warnings were ignored, Disney and Universal moved forward with legal action. The lawsuit says that Midjourney&#8217;s paid plans reportedly range from $10 to $120 per month, contributing to its explosive financial growth since launching.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Midjourney&#8217;s Fast Growth Draws Major Legal Firepower</h2>
Founded in 2021, Midjourney has grown rapidly by offering AI-generated images within seconds, fueled entirely by user prompts. With just 11 full-time employees, the company <a href="https://www.midjourney.com/home">describes</a> itself as a small, self-funded operation. The lawsuit alleges its rapid expansion has come at the expense of long-established copyrights, turning beloved characters into AI fodder without authorization.
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The lawsuit highlights a roster of well-known characters allegedly reproduced by Midjourney's platform. Disney's complaint cites the unauthorized use of Darth Vader from Star Wars, Elsa from Frozen, Lightning McQueen from Cars, and Homer Simpson from The Simpsons. Universal's claims include the depiction of Minions from Despicable Me, Po from Kung Fu Panda, Shrek, as well as Hiccup and Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon.
According to the filing, only the studios maintain legal rights to commercialize these characters and develop content or merchandise around them. One line in the complaint describes Midjourney as a "bottomless pit of plagiarism," accusing the startup of undermining the basic framework of U.S. copyright law. The studios are seeking a jury trial to establish boundaries around what generative AI platforms can legally create.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Broader Battle Looms For AI And Copyright Control</h2>
In the filing, Disney and Universal frame the lawsuit as more than a defense of individual characters, describing Midjourney's business model as a direct threat to the creative economy and the broader U.S. film industry.
Calling the infringement "systematic, ongoing, and willful," the plaintiffs argue the damage is both substantial and irreparable, not just to their own properties but to the incentive system that fuels the $260 billion American motion picture economy.
The lawsuit arrives during a critical moment for AI litigation. Just one week prior, Reddit (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDDT#NYSE">RDDT</a>) filed its own suit against Anthropic, alleging unauthorized use of its forum content for AI training purposes,<a href="https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/reddit-lawsuit-anthropic-ai-3b9624dd"> The Wall Street Journal</a> reports. Getty Images (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GETY#NYSE">GETY</a>) is also<a href="https://copyrightalliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Getty-Images-v.-Stability-AI-Complaint.pdf"> pursuing</a> a multimillion dollar case against Stability AI for allegedly scraping over 12 million copyrighted visuals from its platform.
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