Leading cryptocurrencies were rangebound Sunday as investors awaited fresh macroeconomic data to assess investments in riskier markets.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Cryptocurrency</td><td>Gains +/-</td><td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td></tr><tr><td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td><td>+0.20%</td><td>$98,435.33</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>-0.44%</td><td>$3,644.50</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>-3.07%</td><td>$0.3819</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



What Happened: Bitcoin saw choppy movement, oscillating between $98,700 and $97,300. The world's leading cryptocurrency has regained momentum since New Year, resulting in weekly gains of 4.59%.



Ethereum also stagnated at around the $3,600 level. The coin has endured weeks of corrective action since hitting $4,000 last month.



About $136 million was liquidated from the cryptocurrency market in the last 24 hours, with long positions accounting for 66% of the total.



Bitcoin's Open Interest rose by 0.48%, indicating speculative interest for the leading asset.



That said, the Long/Short Ratio dropped in the last 24 hours, suggesting expectations of further decline in prices.



Market sentiment entered the "Extreme Greed" zone, according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index.



Top Gainers (24-Hours)



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Cryptocurrency</td><td>Gains +/-</td><td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td></tr><tr><td>Movement (MOVE)</td><td>+12.10%</td><td>$1.11</td></tr><tr><td>SPX6900 (SPX)</td><td>+11.27%</td><td>$1.49</td></tr><tr><td>Injective (INJ)</td><td>+7.50%</td><td>$25.54</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.49 trillion, following a marginal drop of 0.31% in the last 24 hours.



Stock futures edged slightly lower on Sunday evening. The Dow Jones Industrial Average Futures fell 33 points, or 0.08%, as of 7:45 p.m. EDT.&nbsp; Futures tied to the S&amp;P 500 dipped 0.07%, while Nasdaq 100 Futures slid 0.08%.



Investors will keep their eyes peeled on the upcoming <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/01/36506821/why-the-december-jobs-report-is-a-crucial-indicator-for-us-economys-trajectory">December jobs report</a>, due on Friday, for hints about the market&#8217;s outlook and the Federal Reserve&#8217;s rate-cut plans.



The NYSE and NASDAQ <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42725647/markets-will-close-for-president-jimmy-carters-state-funeral-what-you-need-to-know">will be closed</a> on Thursday to honor former President Jimmy Carter, who died at 100.



See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>



Analyst Notes: Widely followed cryptocurrency analyst Rekt Capital said Bitcoin was back to its previously lost support area of $97,000-$98,000 and the technical uptrend.



"If Bitcoin weekly closes inside this blue area, there&#8217;ll be a good chance of reclaiming that previously lost support into support once again," the analyst remarked.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> Since confirming additional downside, Bitcoin dropped into the ~$91000 Weekly support before reversing to the upside Bitcoin is now back at the previously lost support area that is the blue Order Block ($97k-$98k) and the previously lost technical uptrend (orange) If… <a href="https://t.co/qMf2hJz2g6">https://t.co/qMf2hJz2g6</a> <a href="https://t.co/MOdXEmWhwF">pic.twitter.com/MOdXEmWhwF</a>&mdash; Rekt Capital (@rektcapital) <a href="https://twitter.com/rektcapital/status/1875954197067399207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Well-known on-chain analyst Ali Martinez called attention to Ethereum's strong move in the ascending parallel channel, painting a target of as much as $6,000.



An ascending parallel channel is a pattern of two parallel lines that slope upward, connecting higher highs and lows. It indicates a bullish trend.



<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">Despite the volatility, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ethereum?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ethereum</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24ETH&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$ETH</a> is holding strong within an ascending parallel channel, pointing towards $6,000! <a href="https://t.co/GKrHvv9mkA">pic.twitter.com/GKrHvv9mkA</a>&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1875854504958320844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/specialty-etfs/24/12/42751129/bitwises-bold-approach-new-etf-targets-bitcoin-powerhouses-as-institutional-adoption-soars">Bitwise&#8217;s Bold Approach: New ETF Targets Bitcoin Powerhouses As Institutional Adoption Soars</a></li>
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Cryptocurrency

News

Markets

Movers

Trading Ideas

$BTC

$DOGE

$ETH

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Remain Muffled As Investors Await Jobs Data: Top Analyst Says ETH 'Holding Strong' In Pattern Pointing Toward $6K

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is reportedly preparing to resign as the leader of the Liberal Party. An official announcement is expected to be made as early as Monday.



What Happened: A report by Reuters, citing Canadian newspaper The Globe and Mail, on Sunday suggests that Trudeau&#8217;s resignation could come ahead of a pivotal national caucus meeting on Wednesday. The specifics of Trudeau&#8217;s exit, including whether he will step down immediately or wait for a successor, remain unclear.



Insiders who spoke to The Globe and Mail could not confirm if Finance Minister&nbsp;Dominic LeBlanc&nbsp;would be willing to serve&nbsp;as interim leader and prime&nbsp;minister, particularly if he intends to vie for the leadership.



Trudeau&#8217;s resignation comes at a crucial juncture for the Liberal Party, which is expected to face a significant loss to the Conservatives in the forthcoming election, due by late October. His exit could prompt calls for an expedited election to establish a government capable of managing the administration of President-elect Donald Trump over the next four years.



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42714402/elon-musk-weighs-in-on-maga-divide-urges-gop-to-purge-contemptible-fools?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Weighs In On MAGA Divide, Urges GOP To Remove ‘Contemptible Fools' Completely</a>



Why It Matters: Trudeau&#8217;s decision to step down comes on the heels of tense discussions with President-elect Donald Trump. In a high-stakes dinner in late November, Trudeau warned Trump about the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/42252924/canadian-pm-justin-trudeau-warns-trumps-25-tariff-plan-will-hurt-americans-at-high-stakes-dinner">potential negative impacts</a> of his proposed 25% tariff plan on American and Canadian citizens.



Following the dinner, Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42409527/trump-humorously-calls-justin-trudeau-as-governor-days-after-floating-idea-of-canada-dodging-tariffs-as-51st-state-of-america">humorously referred</a> to Trudeau as the "Governor of the Great State of Canada," expressing enthusiasm about future meetings and stating that the results of their talks would be "truly spectacular for all."



Photo by Art Babych on Shutterstock



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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>

Politics

General

Justin Trudeau Set To Resign As Prime Minister Of Canada: Report

Elon Musk is reportedly gearing up to introduce a new Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and cryptocurrency feature called "X Money" on his rebranded platform, X, formerly Twitter.



What Happened: According to a leak reported by influencer Alex Finn and MacRumors contributing researcher Aaron Perris on Friday, "X Money" might launch without needing approval from all 50 states.



<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">&#x1f6a8;BREAKING: X PAYMENTS LAUNCHING IMMINENTLY New X code has just shipped that reveals X Payments will launch WITHOUT approval from all 50 states Meaning X Payments could launch TODAY Creators could start earning WAY MORE money immediately States it will be available: 1.… <a href="https://t.co/8Wej1XrIQK">pic.twitter.com/8Wej1XrIQK</a>&mdash; Alex Finn (@AlexFinnX) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexFinnX/status/1874916936032870834?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<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">It seems like X plans to launch X money in the US before getting approval in all 50 states <a href="https://t.co/M8QBHf3U6S">pic.twitter.com/M8QBHf3U6S</a>&mdash; Aaron (@aaronp613) <a href="https://twitter.com/aaronp613/status/1874898592181436658?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 2, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42780776/is-apple-ready-for-a-new-challenge-chinas-smartphone-subsidies-aim-to-boost-domestic-demand-giving-companies-like-huawei-the-upper-hand?itm_source=parsely-api">Apple Rival Huawei, Alibaba And Others Get Boost As China Doles Out Subsidies To Smartphone Buyers</a>



X CEO Linda Yaccarino said earlier this week that payments, including &#8216;X Money,&#8217; will be <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/01/42794433/if-you-invested-1000-in-dogecoin-when-elon-musk-acquired-twitter-heres-how-much-youd-have-now">integrated into the platform</a> in 2025. The idea behind it is to transform X into an &#8220;everything app&#8221; similar to Tencent Holdings Limited&#8217;s (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCEHY#OTC">TCEHY</a>) WeChat.



X payments' support for cryptocurrency could potentially trigger a bitcoin price surge similar to PayPal Holdings Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NASDAQ">PYPL</a>) 2021 crypto support, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/digital-assets/2025/01/05/x-money-leak-reveals-elon-musks-game-changing-plan-as-bitcoin-nears-100000-price/">noted</a> Forbes.



Bitcoin&#8217;s value currently hovers around the $100,000 mark. The apex cryptocurrency touched an all-time high of $108,268.45 on Dec. 17, 2024. 



Why It Matters: The potential launch of &#8216;X Money&#8217; comes amid a series of events that have kept Musk in the crypto spotlight.



Last month, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42739155/elon-musk-changes-his-name-to-kekius-maximus-on-x-sending-to-memecoin-skyrocketing-over-600">Musk changed his name</a> on X to &#8220;Kekius Maximus,&#8221; causing a similarly-named meme coin, Kekius Maximus (KEKIUS), to skyrocket over 600% in value. However, KEKIUS<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"> crashed by 90%</a> when Musk reverted to his original avatar in January.



Musk&#8217;s influence in the crypto market also became evident when an adult-themed meme <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42780378/elon-musks-x-post-now-sends-this-adult-themed-crypto-up-175">coin surged 175% after he</a> referenced it in a post on X.



While Musk has not directly commented on Bitcoin recently, his support for Donald Trump in the upcoming U.S. presidential election has been linked to rising Bitcoin prices.



His role as an influential advisor to the President-elect has also fueled speculation about the creation of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42378618/musk-fuels-speculation-on-us-bitcoin-reserve-as-crypto-surges">U.S. Bitcoin strategic reserve</a>.



Price Action: Bitcoin is currently priced at $98,247, reflecting a 0.17% increase over the past 24 hours. Its trading volume has risen by 2.45%, reaching $21.52 billion, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.



Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock.com



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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Tech

PYPL

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Elon Musk's Push For Crypto-Powered 'Everything App' Reflected In 'X Money' Leak As Bitcoin Hovers Around $100K

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/11/41750727/kevin-oleary-supports-elon-musks-2-trillion-plan-to-slash-government-spending-with-trumps-backing-it">Elon Musk </a>doesn't shy away from big ideas or bold predictions, but his latest warning is a wake-up call for America.&nbsp;



During a recent appearance on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7qZl_5xHoBw">The Joe Rogan Experience</a>, Musk pulled no punches when discussing the U.S. economy. His verdict? The country is heading toward financial collapse if drastic action isn't taken.



"We're drowning in debt," Musk said, referring to the $36.14 trillion the U.S. owes, as reported by the Treasury Department. He explained that interest payments alone comprise 23% of all federal revenue. "If this keeps up, the entire government budget will go to paying interest. That means no money for Social Security, no Medicare, nothing. America would be toast."



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<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>
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Musk's warning hit a nerve and for good reason. Interest payments on the debt are already skyrocketing. In 2024, the government spent over $1 trillion on interest – a staggering figure compared to $4.92 trillion in total revenue.&nbsp;



The Congressional Budget Office predicts those payments will keep climbing, potentially outpacing Medicare and defense spending within a decade.



Musk didn't stop at identifying the problem; he proposed a solution: cutting federal spending by 30%. However, not everyone thinks that's realistic. Marc Goldwein, an expert from the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, quickly critiqued Musk's suggestion.&nbsp;



"Cuts of that magnitude would be borderline impossible without touching programs like Social Security or causing severe economic pain," Goldwein said. He added that most of the federal budget is tied to mandatory spending, leaving little room for discretionary cuts.



Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elon-musk-told-the-u-n-if-they-could-show-a-plan-for-ending-world-hunger-hed-donate-6-billion-i-will-sell-tesla-stock-right-now-and-do-it">Elon Musk Told The U.N. If They Could Show A Plan For Ending World Hunger He'd Donate $6 Billion – ‘I Will Sell Tesla Stock Right Now And Do It'</a>



Ever the skeptic, Joe Rogan asked Musk how this would impact everyday Americans. Musk didn't sugarcoat it. "It means inflation will spike, jobs will disappear and systems we rely on will collapse," he said. "This isn't some far-off possibility – it's already starting to happen."



Experts are divided on Musk's approach but agree the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41720492/anthony-scaramucci-predicts-u-s-will-tackle-debt-crisis-bitcoin-value-will-triple-and-reve"> debt crisis</a> is serious. According to the Peterson Foundation, unchecked debt could lead to higher interest rates, slower economic growth and lower household incomes.&nbsp;



"This isn't just about government budgets," their recent report stated. "It's about the economic future of every American family."



Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned Congress that the U.S. could hit its debt ceiling as early as January 2025. In a letter reported by The Associated Press, Yellen urged Congress to take immediate action to protect credit and the full faith of the USA.



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<li>‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">You can invest today for just $0.26/share with a $1000 minimum.</a></li>
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Startups

There Won't Be Money For Social Security': Elon Musk Tells Joe Rogan About Looming Bankruptcy And $1.1 Trillion Interest

These eight mid-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?



<ol>
<li>Rigetti Computing, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGTI#NASDAQ">RGTI</a>) shares escalated 23.19% as the quantum computing sector saw increased interest.</li>



<li>VEON Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VEON#NASDAQ">VEON</a>) stock surged 17.03%. The company announced that Kyivstar inked an agreement with Starlink to introduce groundbreaking direct-to-cell <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42717832" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">satellite connectivity in Ukraine</a>.</li>



<li>NextDecade Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEXT#NASDAQ">NEXT</a>) stock jumped 16.90% on gains in crude oil and natural gas prices.</li>



<li>GDS Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GDS#NASDAQ">GDS</a>) stock increased 16.05% amid continued interest sparked by reports that the company is evaluating an initial public offering (IPO) for<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42710683" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> its data center assets in China</a>.</li>



<li>Acadia Healthcare Company, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACHC#NASDAQ">ACHC</a>) shares rose 14.79% on U.S. healthcare executives&#8217; bullish outlook for 2025.</li>



<li>Intuitive Machines, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUNR#NASDAQ">LUNR</a>) shares were up 13.89% last week. The stock was on the top ten trending list on WallStreetBets.</li>



<li>Banco BBVA Argentina (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBAR#NYSE">BBAR</a>) shares increased 11.81%, joining the ride in Argentina stocks.</li>



<li>Transportadora de Gas del Sur SA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGS#NYSE">TGS</a>) stock grew 11.93%, joining the ride in Argentina stocks.</li>
</ol>



Image via Shutterstock

Mid Cap

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RGTI

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

The past week has been a whirlwind of political news. From Senator Bernie Sanders backing President-elect Donald Trump&#8217;s proposal for a credit card interest rate cap to the passing of former President Jimmy Carter, the news cycle has been nothing short of eventful. Let&#8217;s delve into the top stories of the week.



Bernie Sanders Supports Trump&#8217;s Credit Cap Proposal



Senator Bernie Sanders announced his intention to introduce legislation supporting President-elect Trump&#8217;s proposal to cap credit card interest rates at 10%. This comes as credit card defaults hit their highest levels since the 2008 financial crisis. Major credit card companies such as Visa Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>), Mastercard Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>), and American Express Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>) saw their stocks decline.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42737402/bernie-sanders-supports-trumps-credit-card-interest-rate-cap-at-10-amid-highest-defaults-since-2008-visa-and-mastercard-trade-in-the-red">Read the full article here.</a>



Jimmy Carter&#8217;s Passing Mourned by Biden and Trump



President Joe Biden and President-elect Trump expressed their condolences over the passing of former President Jimmy Carter. Biden paid tribute to Carter&#8217;s extraordinary contributions over six decades, referring to him as a dear friend of the nation and the world.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42716729/jimmy-carter-to-receive-state-funeral-trump-calls-him-truly-a-good-man-biden-mourns-loss-of-extraordinary-leader">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump Accuses Black Celebrities of Paid Endorsements



Trump accused several Black celebrities of receiving payments for endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris earlier this year. Trump voiced his allegations on Truth Social, claiming that Democrats paid significant sums to secure endorsements from celebrities such as Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, and Al Sharpton.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42716303/donald-trump-claims-black-celebrities-were-paid-for-kamala-harris-endorsements">Read the full article here.</a>



Billionaires&#8217; Influence in Trump&#8217;s White House Warned by Robert Reich



Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich warned of a network of powerful billionaires, including venture capitalist Peter Thiel and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, exerting unparalleled influence over the U.S. government in Trump&#8217;s second term. Reich refers to this as a "billionaire brain trust" poised to shape key aspects of policy and governance.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42722137/elon-musk-peter-thiel-and-billionaires-influence-in-trumps-white-house-former-labor-secretary-robert-reichs-warning">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump&#8217;s Response to NOLA Attack



Trump used the deadly New Orleans attack to call for a crackdown on immigration and to criticize the FBI, the Department of Justice, and other agencies. Despite the attacker being born and raised in the U.S., Trump referred to the incident as a good reason to tighten immigration policies.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42776979/trump-calls-fbi-doj-incompetent-and-corrupt-us-a-laughing-stock-biden-calls-nola-attack-despicable-expresses-sympathy-for-victims-families">Read the full article here.</a>



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Photo courtesy: Flickr



 This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anan-ashraf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anan Ashraf.</a>

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

As we step into the new year, the tech world continues to be abuzz with artificial intelligence (AI) developments. From&nbsp;Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)&nbsp;announcing a whopping $80 billion investment in AI data centers to the ongoing legal tussle between Elon Musk and OpenAI, the past week has been nothing short of eventful. Here&#8217;s a quick roundup of the top stories you might have missed.



Microsoft&#8217;s $80 Billion AI Investment



Microsoft is set to pump approximately $80 billion into the development of AI data centers in fiscal 2025. This move comes in the wake of the launch of ChatGPT by OpenAI in 2022, which has spurred companies to integrate AI into their offerings. The increasing demand for AI&#8217;s computing power necessitates specialized data centers, allowing tech firms to connect thousands of chips in clusters.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42801720/microsoft-to-invest-80-billion-in-ai-data-centers-for-fiscal-2025">Read the full article here.</a>



Microsoft&#8217;s Copilot Plus Targets Mini PCs



In another Microsoft-related development, the tech giant is expanding its AI hardware strategy with a new wave of compact desktop computers featuring dedicated Copilot capabilities. Asus has emerged as the first major manufacturer to unveil a Copilot Plus-compatible mini PC, signaling Microsoft&#8217;s push to expand its AI features beyond laptops.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42781607/microsofts-copilot-plus-set-to-expand-to-mini-pcs-at-ces-as-windows-maker-looks-to-take-on-apples-mac-mini">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42779998/6th-circuit-strikes-down-fcc-net-neutrality-rules-in-blow-to-biden-administrations-internet-regulation-agenda?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Biden-Era Net Neutrality Rules Overturned By Federal Appeals Court: What It Means For Net Freedom</a>



Musk vs OpenAI: Geoffrey Hinton Weighs In



The ongoing battle between Elon Musk and Sam Altman over the new course of OpenAI has seen Geoffrey Hinton, the &#8220;Godfather of AI,&#8221; taking sides. Musk&#8217;s legal attempt to block OpenAI&#8217;s transition from a nonprofit to a for-profit structure is far from over.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/01/42778778/elon-musk-gets-support-from-godfather-of-ai-geoffrey-hinton-in-battle-against-openai">Read the full article here.</a>



Nvidia&#8217;s Billion-Dollar Investment Spree



NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) invested $1 billion across 50 startup funding rounds in 2024, consolidating its position in the AI segment. The company&#8217;s investment surge represents a 15% increase from its $872 million spending in 2023.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42758502/nvidias-investments-in-elon-musks-xai-perplexity-openai-and-other-startups-crossed-1-billion-mark-in-2024">Read the full article here.</a>



Nvidia Supplier Considers Expansion Amid AI Demand



Ibiden Co., a significant supplier for Nvidia, is contemplating accelerating its production capacity expansion to meet the growing demand for AI chip package substrates. The company is currently building a new substrate factory in Gifu, Japan, which is expected to commence operations at 25% capacity by late 2025.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42718022/days-after-key-nvidia-supplier-warned-of-ai-spending-slowdown-another-nvda-partner-considers-accelerating-expansion-to-meet-growing-demand">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42779753/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-replaces-global-affairs-chief-nick-clegg-with-republican-joel-kaplan-ahead-of-trump-inauguration?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Zuckerberg&#8217;s Meta Replaces Global Affairs Chief Nick Clegg With Republican Joel Kaplan Ahead Of Trump Inauguration</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

MSFT

NVDA

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

The past week was a rollercoaster ride for&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>). From leaks about the iPhone 17&#8217;s display upgrade to CEO Tim Cook&#8217;s hefty donation to Trump&#8217;s inauguration, the tech giant was in the limelight for various reasons. China&#8217;s decision to subsidize smartphones could pose a new challenge, while the halt of iPhone 14 and iPhone SE sales in the EU raised eyebrows. However, a bullish prediction for Apple&#8217;s stock offered a silver lining. Let&#8217;s delve into these stories.



iPhone 17 Display Upgrade



A new leak suggests that Apple is set to enhance the display technology in its upcoming iPhone 17 series. The Weibo-based Chinese leaker, Digital Chat Station, stated that supply chain materials support the rumors of a higher refresh rate for the standard iPhone 17. While the exact refresh rate wasn&#8217;t specified, earlier reports hint at a 120Hz ProMotion rate, previously exclusive to Pro models, being implemented.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42736353/iphone-17-to-get-display-upgrade-as-apple-finally-ditches-60hz-technology-new-leak-reiterates-possibility">Read the full article here.</a>



Tim Cook&#8217;s $1 Million Donation



Apple CEO Tim Cook reportedly donated $1 million to President-elect Donald Trump's inaugural committee, joining the ranks of other major tech leaders like Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and Sam Altman. Cook&#8217;s donation follows several meetings between him and Trump during the latter&#8217;s first term and a recent dinner at Mar-a-Lago. Cook views the inauguration as an important American tradition and is contributing to the spirit of unity.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42801809/apple-ceo-tim-cook-reportedly-donates-1-million-to-trump-inauguration-joins-ranks-of-mark-zuckerberg-jeff-bezos-and-sam-altman">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/01/42759975/squid-game-season-3-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-thrilling-finale-coming-in-2025?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Squid Game Season 3: Everything You Need To Know About The Thrilling Finale Coming In 2025</a>



China&#8217;s Smartphone Subsidies



China is extending consumption subsidies to include smartphones and other electronics, potentially giving companies like Huawei an upper hand. The national trade-in program, which currently covers home appliances and vehicles, will now extend to personal devices such as phones, tablets, and smartwatches. This announcement was made during a briefing on Friday.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42780776/is-apple-ready-for-a-new-challenge-chinas-smartphone-subsidies-aim-to-boost-domestic-demand-giving-companies-like-huawei-the-upper-hand">Read the full article here.</a>



Apple Halts Sales in EU



Apple has stopped selling its iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, and third-generation iPhone SE models across most European Union countries. This decision is a response to new EU regulations requiring USB-C ports for smartphones with wired charging capabilities. The affected iPhone models have been removed from Apple's online store in several countries.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712752/apple-halts-iphone-14-iphone-se-sales-in-eu-heres-why">Read the full article here.</a>



Bullish Prediction for Apple Stock



Wedbush analyst Dan Ives predicts a 26% upside for Apple stock, foreseeing a &#8220;golden era of growth&#8221; for Cupertino with an AI-driven iPhone upgrade cycle. Ives believes that Apple&#8217;s iPhone sales could witness a boost thanks to AI and has raised the price target on Apple to $325.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42682230/tech-bull-predicts-26-upside-for-apple-stock-sees-golden-era-of-growth-for-cupertino-due-to-multi-year-ai-driven-iphone-upgrade-cycle">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42775636/ces-2025-preview-nvidia-amd-in-spotlight-other-trends-and-stocks-to-watch?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CES 2025 Preview: Nvidia And AMD Grab Spotlight, Other Trends And Stocks To Watch</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

AAPL

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

The first weekend of 2025 has been a whirlwind in the world of finance, with cryptocurrencies making significant strides. Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) is inching closer to the $100,000 mark, while Dogecoin has seen a surge, possibly due to Elon Musk&#8217;s influence. Meanwhile, Cathie Wood&#8217;s Ark Invest has been making strategic trades. Let&#8217;s dive into the details.



Bitcoin Nears $100,000, Dogecoin Soars



The cryptocurrency market has started the year on a high note, with Bitcoin prices nearing the $100,000 mark despite record ETF outflows. Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) has also seen a significant increase in value.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42795194/bitcoin-reclaims-98000-dogecoin-explodes-xrp-ethereum-surge-nothing-more-bullish-than-btc-prices-going-up-trader-says">Read the full article here.</a>



Bitcoin Could Reach $1 Million, Says Arthur Hayes



BitMEX co-founder Arthur Hayes has suggested that a change in US banking regulations could propel Bitcoin to a $1 million valuation. Hayes believes that if US banks receive an exemption from the supplementary leverage ratio (SLR) rule, it could lead to increased market liquidity, significantly boosting Bitcoin's value.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42802338/bitcoin-to-hit-1-million-arthur-hayes-says-another-signpost-has-appeared-amid-us-debt-concerns">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42758665/peter-thiels-bubble-theory-gains-relevance-as-bitcoin-hovers-around-95k-extremely-hard-to-define?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Thiel&#8217;s Bubble Theory Gains Relevance As Bitcoin Hovers Around $95K: &#8216;Extremely Hard To Define&#8217;</a>



Cathie Wood&#8217;s Ark Invest Makes Strategic Trades



Ark Invest, led by Cathie Wood, made significant trades involving Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>), Ark 21Shares Bitcoin ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKB#BATS">ARKB</a>), and Quantum-Si Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSI#NASDAQ">QSI</a>). Ark Invest sold 20,332 shares of Palantir, aligning with Ark's recent trend of reducing its position in the hot AI stock.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42801940/cathie-woods-ark-invest-books-profits-on-hot-ai-stock-palantir-sells-bitcoin-etf-shares-as-btc-starts-2025-on-a-positive-note">Read the full article here.</a>



Elon Musk&#8217;s Influence on Dogecoin



The price of Dogecoin has increased, possibly due to social media platform X getting closer to launching payments in 2025. Elon Musk, who acquired the platform (formerly known as Twitter) for $44 billion in 2022, could be a significant factor in this surge.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/01/42794433/if-you-invested-1000-in-dogecoin-when-elon-musk-acquired-twitter-heres-how-much-youd-have-now">Read the full article here.</a>



Bitcoin Discussion at Mar-a-Lago



Bitcoin advocate Michael Saylor met with Eric Trump at Mar-a-Lago, sparking speculation that Bitcoin could have been a topic of discussion between the two influential figures. Saylor shared a photo of the meeting with the caption, &#8220;Bitcoin is on the menu at Mar-a-Lago.&#8221;



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42785039/michael-saylor-meets-eric-trump-says-bitcoin-is-on-the-menu-at-mar-a-lago">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/12/42749281/if-you-invested-1000-in-pepe-coin-when-elon-musk-shared-a-meme-earlier-this-year-heres-how-much-youd-have-today?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">If You Invested $1,000 In Pepe Coin When Elon Musk Shared A Meme Earlier This Year, Here&#8217;s How Much You&#8217;d Have</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

ARKB

PLTR

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

The week was filled with stories that kept the business world buzzing. From Elon Musk&#8217;s controversial involvement in German politics to the surge in natural gas prices due to freezing US temperatures, there was no shortage of news. Let&#8217;s dive into the key stories that shaped the weekend.



Elon Musk Accused of Meddling in German Elections



Tesla Inc. CEO Musk has been accused by the German government of attempting to influence the upcoming federal elections. Musk&#8217;s endorsements of the far-right party, Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), have been deemed &#8220;intrusive and presumptuous&#8221; by Friedrich Merz, leader of Germany's largest opposition party.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42732904/elon-musk-blasted-as-intrusive-and-presumptuous-for-trying-to-influence-german-elections-toward-far-right-party">Read the full article here.</a>



US Freeze Drives Natural Gas Prices Up



An arctic blast across the US has led to a surge in heating demand, resulting in volatile conditions in energy markets. Natural gas futures saw a significant bounce back, with February contracts climbing by over 2%. The National Weather Center (NWC) predicts continued heavy coastal rains and higher-elevation snow for much of the northwestern U.S.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/25/01/42769181/natural-gas-prices-surge-as-arctic-blast-freezes-us-3-stocks-on-the-move">Read the full article here.</a>



Mortgage Rates Hit Six-Month High



The new year has brought little relief for prospective US homebuyers as mortgage rates have soared to their highest level in six months. The average interest rate on 30-year fixed-rate mortgages climbed to 6.97% in the week ending Dec. 27, 2024, marking the steepest rates since early July.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42764583/mortgage-rates-soar-to-697-applications-crash-jobless-claims-fall-thursdays-econ-data">Read the full article here.</a>



El-Erian Highlights Economic Disparity in the US



Influential economist Mohamed El-Erian pointed out the stark contrast between US "economic exceptionalism" and the struggles of lower-income households in what he calls a "K economy." El-Erian highlighted the growing economic disparity in the United States, noting the significant and increasing challenges faced by lower-income households.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735416/el-erian-warns-of-hidden-crisis-in-exceptional-us-economy-as-lower-income-households-face-considerable-challenges">Read the full article here.</a>



El-Erian Cautions Federal Reserve Against Overly Restrictive Policies



El-Erian has raised concerns over the Federal Reserve's potential policy direction for 2025. El-Erian emphasized the importance of the Fed avoiding an overly restrictive stance in the coming year, cautioning that excessively stringent monetary policies could jeopardize the US economy&#8217;s resilience.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/12/42738682/mohamed-el-erian-warns-federal-reserve-needs-to-refrain-from-being-overly-restrictive-in-2025">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<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</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



 This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anan-ashraf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anan Ashraf.</a>

Economics

TSLA

Elon Musk's German Election 'Meddling,' Natural Gas Price Surge, And More: This Week In Economics

As we usher in the new year, the mobility sector has been buzzing with noteworthy developments. From&nbsp;Lucid Group Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LCID#NASDAQ">LCID</a>) rolling out its Gravity SUV to&nbsp;Elon Musk&#8216;s clarification on the Cybertruck incident, the weekend was anything but quiet. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories.



Lucid Motors Begins Deliveries of Gravity SUV



Over the last weekend, Lucid Motors began delivering its latest electric vehicle, the Gravity SUV. The first customers received their vehicles and left the factory in a convoy from the company&#8217;s Casa Grande, Arizona facility.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42736433/lucid-starts-deliveries-of-tesla-model-x-competitor-gravity-suv">Read the full article here.</a>



Musk Sheds Light on Cybertruck Incident



Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Musk took to social media to clarify the recent explosion involving a Cybertruck outside the Trump International Hotel on New Year's Day. According to Musk, the explosion was caused by large fireworks or a bomb carried in the bed of the rented vehicle, not a design or functionality issue of the vehicle itself.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/42757901/elon-musk-fireworks-or-explosive-device-caused-fatal-cybertruck-incident-at-las-vegas-trump-hotel-vehicle-was-rented">Read the full article here.</a>



MKBHD Sells Cybertruck, Endorses Rivian



Popular YouTuber and tech reviewer MKBHD, also known as Marques Brownlee, announced he has sold his Tesla Cybertruck and is now supporting rival automaker&nbsp;Rivian Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>).



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42731115/tesla-vs-rivian-mkbhd-sells-cybertruck-tells-elon-musk-tesla-could-crush-with-this-ev">Read the full article here.</a>



Tesla&#8217;s Sales Drop Divides Wall Street



After Tesla&#8217;s fourth-quarter delivery figures fell short of analyst consensus estimates, Wall Street is divided on the company&#8217;s outlook for 2025. Some analysts believe this could be a make-or-break year for the EV giant.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/42777950/teslas-first-sales-drop-splits-wall-street-2025-will-be-the-prove-it-year">Read the full article here.</a>



Musk Envisions Reusable Heat Shield for SpaceX&#8217;s Starship



SpaceX CEO Elon Musk is confident about developing a fully reusable heat shield for the Starship next year. He also envisions uncrewed Starships landing on Mars in about 2 years and crewed Starships heading there in about 4 years.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42718758/elon-musk-says-starship-will-get-fully-reusable-heat-shield-in-2025-i-am-confident">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42763048/powering-up-charging-tesla-to-deploy-first-v4-superchargers-in-china-by-2025?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla To Deploy First V4 Superchargers In China By 2025: Report</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Tesla



 This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anan-ashraf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anan Ashraf.</a>

LCID

RIVN

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

The European Union&#8216;s (EU) USB-C directive has officially come into force, mandating a universal charging port for electronic devices. The directive, effective from 2025, requires mobile <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42736387/eu-usb-c-directive-kicks-in-what-it-means-for-you-your-devices-and-the-planet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">phones to feature a USB-C port</a>.



Cyberhaven, a data-loss prevention startup, has confirmed a security breach involving its&nbsp;Google Chrome&nbsp;browser extension. Hackers managed to release a malicious update capable of stealing user <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712841/google-chrome-users-beware-this-holiday-season-cyber-security-firms-browser-extension-hijacked-by-attackers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">passwords and session tokens</a>.



President-elect&nbsp;Donald Trump has sought a &#8220;political resolution&#8221; of the TikTok ban, urging the Supreme Court to&nbsp;postpone a&nbsp;law that threatens to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712643/trump-asks-supreme-court-to-delay-tiktok-ban-as-he-pursues-a-political-resolution" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">block the social media app</a>.



Venezuela's Supreme Court has levied a $10 million fine against&nbsp;ByteDance-owned&nbsp;TikTok&nbsp;for its alleged failure to curb the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42758430/tiktok-fined-10-million-in-venezuela-as-supreme-court-blames-platform-for-failing-to-prevent-deadly-viral-challenges" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">spread of&nbsp;hazardous viral challenges</a>.



Streaming &amp; Music Platforms



Explicit content has been discovered in&nbsp;Spotify Technology S.A.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPOT#NYSE">SPOT</a>) search results, sparking user outrage over apparent moderation loopholes. A Reddit user shared a screenshot showing a pornographic video appearing in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42716915/spotify-users-discover-adult-content-hidden-in-search-results-sparking-outrage-over-moderation-loopholes" rel="noreferrer noopener">search results for British rapper&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42716915/spotify-users-discover-adult-content-hidden-in-search-results-sparking-outrage-over-moderation-loopholes" rel="noreferrer noopener">M.I.A</a>.



Netflix, Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) Squid Game&nbsp;is back in the spotlight&nbsp;with its second season, and fans are buzzing <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/01/42759975/squid-game-season-3-everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-thrilling-finale-coming-in-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">about the third and final season</a>.



Smartphones



Samsung Electronics Co.&#8217;s&nbsp;(OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNLF#OTC">SSNLF</a>) Galaxy S25 Slim, identified as model SM-S937, is reportedly not launching&nbsp;alongside the rest&nbsp;of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42717053/galaxy-s25-slim-delayed-samsungs-sleek-new-model-wont-reportedly-be-part-of-the-first-wave-in-early-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">the&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42717053/galaxy-s25-slim-delayed-samsungs-sleek-new-model-wont-reportedly-be-part-of-the-first-wave-in-early-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">S25</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42717053/galaxy-s25-slim-delayed-samsungs-sleek-new-model-wont-reportedly-be-part-of-the-first-wave-in-early-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;series in early 2025</a>.



Apple Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) has stopped selling its&nbsp;iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus,&nbsp;and third-generation iPhone SE models across <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712752/apple-halts-iphone-14-iphone-se-sales-in-eu-heres-why" rel="noreferrer noopener">most EU countries</a>.



A new leak reiterates that&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;is reportedly set to&nbsp;improve the display technology&nbsp;in its upcoming&nbsp;iPhone 17&nbsp;series. Over the weekend, Weibo-based Chinese leaker&nbsp;Digital Chat Station&nbsp;said that supply chain materials support the rumors of a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42736353/iphone-17-to-get-display-upgrade-as-apple-finally-ditches-60hz-technology-new-leak-reiterates-possibility" rel="noreferrer noopener">higher refresh rate for the standard iPhone 17</a>.



Apple is offering discounts of up to 500 yuan ($68.50) on its&nbsp;iPhone 16&nbsp;models in China as it&nbsp;faces increasing competition&nbsp;from&nbsp;Huawei Technologies. Apple has launched a rare promotional event in China, set <a target="_blank" 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" rel="noreferrer noopener">to run from Jan. 4 to Jan. 7, 2025</a>.



Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42739523/apple-amazon-samsung-and-nintendo-what-tech-marvels-are-these-giants-cooking-in-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple, Amazon, Samsung, And Nintendo: What Tech Marvels Are These Giants Cooking In 2025</a>



Technology &amp; Artificial Intelligence (AI)



Amid a surge in demand for AI chip package substrates,&nbsp;Ibiden Co.,&nbsp;a significant supplier for&nbsp;Nvidia Corp.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), is evaluating the possibility of hastening its production capacity expansion. This move comes as the company aims to keep pace with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42718022/days-after-key-nvidia-supplier-warned-of-ai-spending-slowdown-another-nvda-partner-considers-accelerating-expansion-to-meet-growing-demand" rel="noreferrer noopener">the growing needs of the AI industry</a>.



Cathie Wood, CEO and CIO of&nbsp;Ark Invest&nbsp;shared her optimistic outlook for 2025, highlighting advancements in robotics, energy storage, artificial intelligence, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42758213/cathie-woods-ark-invest-predicts-explosive-growth-in-2025-innovation-is-going-to-scale-dramatically-as-the-economy-begins-to-get-rid-of-regulations-under-this-new-administration" rel="noreferrer noopener">blockchain technology, and multiomics</a>.



Encode, a nonprofit organization, has joined forces with&nbsp;Elon Musk in a legal effort to prevent&nbsp;OpenAI&nbsp;from transitioning into a for-profit entity. This move comes as Encode files a request to submit an <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712824/elon-musks-legal-battle-against-openais-for-profit-transition-joined-by-non-profit-encode" rel="noreferrer noopener">amicus brief in support of Musk's injunction</a>.



Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)-backed OpenAI has revealed its plans to evolve into a Delaware Public Benefit Corporation (PBC). The company aims to balance shareholder and stakeholder interests <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42712683/openai-lays-out-its-for-profit-transition-plans-says-it-must-evolve-to-advance-its-agi-mission" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">while maintaining its public benefit mission</a>.



Image: Shutterstock

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Consumer Tech News (Dec 30-Jan 3): Apple Stops Selling iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone SE, Trump Seeks A 'Political Resolution' Of TikTok Ban & More

These ten large-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?



<ol>
<li>Rivian Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) shares escalated 17.45% after the company disclosed its production and delivery figures for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42786671" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth quarter and full-year 2024</a>.</li>



<li>FTAI Aviation Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTAI#NASDAQ">FTAI</a>) stock surged 16.59% after the company launched a strategic capital initiative in partnership <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42739532" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">with institutional investors</a>.</li>



<li>Vistra Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VST#NYSE">VST</a>) shares jumped 12.66% after UBS raised its price forecast on<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/vst/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> the stock from $161 to $174</a>.</li>



<li>Mobileye Global Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MBLY#NASDAQ">MBLY</a>) shares rose 11.45%.</li>



<li>Equinor ASA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQNR#NYSE">EQNR</a>) stock surged 11.06% after the company announced it had received $3B in financing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42766874" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for its U.S. Empire Wind 1 project</a>.</li>



<li>Constellation Energy Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CEG#NASDAQ">CEG</a>) shares increased 10.39% after the company announced it won $1 billion in combined contracts from the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42770600" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">U.S. General Services Administration</a>.</li>



<li>Ecopetrol S.A. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EC#NYSE">EC</a>) stock was up 9.40% after the company confirmed an agreement with Repsol to purchase its interest in the Exploration and Production Contract <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42750775" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(E&amp;P Contract) for Block CPO-09</a>.</li>



<li>Permian Resources Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PR#NYSE">PR</a>) shares upped 9.16%.</li>



<li>Devon Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVN#NYSE">DVN</a>) stock increased 9.06%.</li>



<li>Arm Holdings plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) stock gained 8.78% last week, continuing the momentum of 2024&#8217;s rally.</li>
</ol>



Photo Courtesy of Rivian

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

These nine large-cap stocks were the worst performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?



<ol>
<li>Carvana Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVNA#NYSE">CVNA</a>) stock plummeted 20.93%. Short-seller Hindenburg Research&#8216;s critical report intensified bearish sentiment, describing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42784518" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carvana&#8217;s turnaround as a &#8220;mirage.</a>&#8221; </li>



<li>SoFi Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOFI#NASDAQ">SOFI</a>) shares declined 10.60% after Keefe, Bruyette &amp; Woods downgraded the stock from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SOfi/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Market Perform to Underperform</a>.</li>



<li>Yum China Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YUMC#NYSE">YUMC</a>) shares fell 10.40%.</li>



<li>Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) shares tumbled 9.62% after the company disclosed fourth-quarter <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42766117" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">production and delivery figures</a>. Analysts revised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42786667" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>



<li>Kinsale Capital Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KNSL#NYSE">KNSL</a>) shares dipped 9.45% after JP Morgan cut its price forecast <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/knsl/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on the stock from $415 to $412</a>.</li>



<li>Brown Forman Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BF#NYSE">BF</a>) shares decreased 8.20% last week after U.S. Surgeon General Murthy issued an advisory warning alcohol consumption could raise cancer risk.</li>



<li>Trip.com Group Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCOM#NASDAQ">TCOM</a>) stock was down 7.47%. Citigroup raised its price forecast <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/tcom/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on the stock from $73 to $78</a>.</li>



<li>Fomento Economico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FMX#NYSE">FMX</a>) stock lost 7.47% last week after U.S. Surgeon General Murthy issued an advisory warning alcohol consumption could raise cancer risk.</li>



<li>Aurora Innovation, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AUR#NASDAQ">AUR</a>) stock fell 9.47%.</li>
</ol>



Image via Tesla

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

Benzinga examined the prospects for<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas"> many investors&#8217; favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here&#8217;s a look at some of our top stories.



The Nasdaq and S&amp;P 500 ended a five-day losing streak on Friday, but the week closed with the S&amp;P down 0.48%, the Dow losing 0.60%, and the Nasdaq dropping 0.51%.



Rising Treasury yields, including a 30-year high of 4.8%, raised borrowing cost concerns and drove record December outflows from the iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLT#NASDAQ">TLT</a>), as markets carried weak momentum <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42796485/goodbye-santa-rally-tesla-falters-on-deliveries-investors-flee-bonds-ahead-of-trumps-second-term-this-week-in-the-market">into the new year.</a>



Meanwhile, the U.S. manufacturing sector showed signs of stabilization in December, with the ISM Manufacturing PMI climbing to 49.3%, its highest since April 2024, though still marking the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/42790042/us-manufacturing-activity-tops-expectations-in-december-rises-to-9-month-highs">ninth consecutive month of contraction.</a>



Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week&#8217;s most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">The Bulls</h3>



&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42751367/netflix-posts-record-debut-with-squid-game-season-2-heres-how-many-people-watched-show">Netflix Posts Record Debut With &#8216;Squid Game&#8217; Season 2: Here&#8217;s How Many People Watched Show</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/chris-katje">Chris Katje</a>, highlights Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) achieving 68 million views for &#8220;Squid Game&#8221; Season 2 in its first week, setting a company record, alongside NFL Christmas Day games driving additional subscriber engagement.



&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42758813/shytoshi-kusama-clears-the-air-on-shiba-inu-role-memecoin-rivalry-our-drive-was-to-overtake-dogecoin">Shytoshi Kusama Clears The Air On Shiba Inu Role, Memecoin Rivalry: &#8216;Our Drive Was To Overtake Dogecoin&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/aniket-verma">Aniket Verma</a>, features Shytoshi Kusama clarifying that Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>) was founded by Ryoshi, not him, and sharing the project's early vision to surpass Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>).



&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/12/42734220/bill-ackman-sends-fannie-mae-freddie-mac-stocks-soaring-trump-likes-big-deals">Bill Ackman Sends Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac Stocks Soaring: &#8216;Trump Likes Big Deals&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/erica-kollmann">Erica Kollmann</a>, discusses Bill Ackman's bullish view on Fannie Mae (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FNMA#OTC">FNMA</a>) and Freddie Mac (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FMCC#OTC">FMCC</a>) stocks, citing their potential for large gains as conservatorship could end under Donald Trump's administration, with Ackman highlighting asymmetric upside for investors.



For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42709387/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet">Benzinga&#8217;s &#8216;Stock Whisper&#8217; Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don&#8217;t Talk About Yet</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/25/01/42769181/natural-gas-prices-surge-as-arctic-blast-freezes-us-3-stocks-on-the-move">Natural Gas Prices Surge As Arctic Blast Freezes US: 3 Stocks On The Move</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/42777529/goldman-sachs-adds-3-stocks-to-conviction-list-flags-5-market-trends-to-monitor-in-2025">Goldman Sachs Adds 3 Stocks To &#8216;Conviction List,&#8217; Flags 5 Market Trends To Monitor In 2025</a>



The Bears



&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/42777950/teslas-first-sales-drop-splits-wall-street-2025-will-be-the-prove-it-year">Tesla&#8217;s First Sales Drop Splits Wall Street: &#8216;2025 Will Be The Prove It Year&#8217;</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/chris-katje">Chris Katje</a>, highlights Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) facing mixed analyst reactions after missing Q4 delivery estimates, with Wedbush's Daniel Ives forecasting a 20%-30% growth rebound in 2025, while Ross Gerber criticized reliance on discounts to boost sales.



&#8220;<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">Pharma Bro Martin Shkreli Predicts Liquidation Doom For MicroStrategy Amid Fall Below $300, Says Bitcoin Will Hit $250K Without Michael Saylor</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/aniket-verma">Aniket Verma</a>, features Martin Shkreli's warning of potential liquidation for MicroStrategy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) as its stock fell below $300, predicting Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) could hit $250,000 without the influence of its co-founder Michael Saylor.



&#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42699274/boeing-engineers-leave-struggling-planemaker-for-space-companies-report">Boeing Engineers Leave Struggling Planemaker For Space Companies: Report</a>,&#8221; by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/anan-ashraf">Anan Ashraf</a>, highlights talent migration from Boeing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) to firms like SpaceX and Blue Origin as engineer tenures drop, potentially delaying new aircraft development, though Boeing says its voluntary attrition rate remains low with competitive pay and benefits.



For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/42790373/apple-iphones-lose-ground-in-china-as-subsidies-boost-huawei-domestic-rivals">Apple iPhones Lose Ground In China As Subsidies Boost Huawei, Domestic Rivals</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/01/42791291/jetblue-fined-2-million-for-chronic-flight-delays-delta-united-rank-among-most-on-time-airlines">JetBlue Fined $2 Million For &#8216;Chronic Flight Delays&#8217;: Delta, United Rank Among Most On-Time Airlines</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/short-ideas/22/10/29205954/paul-tudor-jones-correctly-predicted-the-1987-stock-market-crash-heres-what-the-billion">Paul Tudor Jones Correctly Predicted The 1987 Stock Market Crash: Here&#8217;s What The Billionaire Hedge Fund Manager Says Is Coming Next</a>



Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following<a href="https://twitter.com/Benzinga"> Benzinga</a><a href="http://twitter.com/Benzinga"> on Twitter</a>.



Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

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Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Tesla, Netflix, MicroStrategy — And Shiba Inu Strives To Outpace Dogecoin In Crypto

Elon Musk announced a significant &#8220;algorithm tweak&#8221; on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. This move aims to mitigate the &#8220;excessive negativity&#8221; that has been a growing concern on the platform.



What Happened: Elon Musk made the announcement via an X post, stating his goal&nbsp;to &#8220;maximize unregretted user-seconds.&#8221; 



Musk took the reins of Twitter in October 2022 and reinstated several previously suspended conservative figures, including President-elect Donald Trump, who was removed from the platform following the Capitol Hill riot on Jan. 6, 2021.



<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">Algorithm tweak coming soon to promote more informational/entertaining content. We will publish the changes to <a href="https://twitter.com/XEng?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@XEng</a>. Our goal is to maximize unregretted user-seconds. Too much negativity is being pushed that technically grows user time, but not unregretted user time.&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1875355425601999255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Musk has been at the center of several controversial interventions on X. His latest announcement regarding the algorithm change has elicited a range of reactions from social media users.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42716098/musk-to-arnault-heres-a-look-at-2024s-billionaire-boom-and-bust-who-gained-and-who-lost">Musk To Arnault: Here&#8217;s A Look At 2024&#8217;s Billionaire Boom and Bust, Who Gained and Who Lost</a>



Musk has stated that the new algorithm will prioritize more informational and entertaining content. He also mentioned that they are exploring ways for users to dynamically adjust their content feed.



Why It Matters: Musk&#8217;s decision to tweak the algorithm comes at a time when social media platforms are under scrutiny for their content moderation policies. 



The move is seen as an attempt to balance freedom of speech with the need to maintain a positive and respectful discourse on the platform. However, the impact of this algorithm change on the platform and its users remains to be seen. 



As the platform continues to evolve under Musk&#8217;s leadership, users and observers alike will be keenly watching the changes and their effects on the platform&#8217;s user experience and overall atmosphere.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/37301290/elon-musk-is-still-attempting-to-defend-hateful-speech-amid-xs-growing-pains-and-public-backlash-rep">Elon Musk Is Still Attempting To Defend Hateful Speech Amid X&#8217;s Growing Pains And Public Backlash</a>



Image: Shutterstock

Social Media

Elon Musk Announces Changes to X Over Negativity Concerns: 'Too Much Negativity Is Being Pushed'

Dog-themed meme coin Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>) has seen a massive 2,133% surge in its burn rate, followed by a 10% price rise.



What Happened: According to Shibburn, a platform that collects burn transaction data from Etherscan and presents it to the SHIB community, reported six burn transactions in the last 24 hours. 



These transactions resulted in the removal of a total of 34,312,733 SHIB from circulation. This large burn rate led to a 2,133% increase in the Shiba Inu burn rate metric.



<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">HOURLY SHIB UPDATE<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24SHIB&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$SHIB</a> Price: $0.00002274 (1hr 0.84% ▲ &#x7C; 24hr 6.27% ▲ ) Market Cap: $13,386,574,644 (6.33% ▲) Total Supply: 589,257,088,533,288 TOKENS BURNT Past 24Hrs: 34,312,733 (2133.1% ▲) Past 7 Days: 46,355,986 (-30.37% ▼)&mdash; Shibburn (@shibburn) <a href="https://twitter.com/shibburn/status/1875361550149537914?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Most of the burned SHIB was destroyed in a single transfer, which moved 31,483,015 SHIB to an unspendable blockchain wallet. Two other large transfers moved 1,000,000 and 1,259,569 SHIB to the same destination.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42378684/shiba-inus-208-surge-this-year-sparks-predictions-of-top-10-crypto-ranking-in-2025">Shiba Inu&#8217;s 208% Surge This Year Sparks Predictions Of Top 10 Crypto Ranking In 2025</a>



The SHIB community leader, known as Shytoshi Kusama, announced on his official X account that he plans to take a break&nbsp;from social media for a&nbsp;few days. This is due to the launch of&nbsp;a new Shibarium token TREAT&nbsp;and the completion of &#8220;2 extremely important papers&#8221;.



Why It Matters: The surge in Shiba Inu&#8217;s burn rate and subsequent price rise is significant as it indicates a strong demand for the meme coin. The burn rate is a measure of how many coins are being removed from circulation, effectively reducing the supply and potentially driving up the price.



The announcement from Shytoshi Kusama, the SHIB community leader, about his temporary departure from social media and the launch of a new Shibarium token also adds to the intrigue. 



The market will be keenly watching the developments around the new token and the impact it could have on SHIB&#8217;s price.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42635671/analyst-bullish-on-shiba-inu-sees-235-surge-despite-recent-fall">Analyst Bullish on Shiba Inu, Sees 235% Surge Despite Recent Fall</a>

Shiba Inu's 2,133% Burn Rate Surge Followed by 10% Price Rise: What's Happening?

Boston Dynamics, the robotics firm famous for its viral videos of humanoid Atlas and doglike Spot robots, has laid off 45 employees, which accounts for about 5% of its workforce. A company spokesperson confirmed to the Boston Globe that the layoffs impacted nearly every department.&nbsp;



The company, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41426233/hyundais-boston-dynamics-partners-with-toyota-research-institute-to-challenge-teslas-optimus-humanoi">owned by Hyundai Motor Group</a>, has grown its workforce nearly fourfold since 2021. CEO Robert Playter told employees that while the company's future looks good, they needed to make these cuts to save money and focus on making a profit. He pointed out that Spot, Stretch and their work on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/05/38616232/lex-fridman-wowed-by-boston-dynamics-new-robotic-innovation-compares-its-atlas-robot-to-teslas-optim">Atlas are still doing well</a>, but they must manage their money better to keep growing.&nbsp;



Don't Miss:



<ul>
<li>It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $70 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a></li>



<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>
</ul>



"We are also burning through cash at a rate that exceeds our commercial progress to date and we need to streamline our operations and production processes to support sustainable growth," the note sent to employees said. "Today is about making a very difficult short-term decision in service of our longer-term strategy and profitability goals."



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From Viral Videos to Real-World Applications</h2>



Boston Dynamics has impressed millions of people online with videos showing robots doing amazing things, like Spot opening doors or Atlas doing flips. But making money from these robots has been challenging. Spot became commercially available in 2019 and Stretch, a robot designed to automate warehouses, was launched in 2022. The company is also working on a version of Atlas for factories.



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In spite of these developments, competition is intensifying. Boston Dynamics is under pressure to develop and commercialize rapidly as competitors like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37475260/amazon-unveils-humanoid-robot-digit-at-warehouse-a-glimpse-into-automated-workspaces">Agility Robotics</a>, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39246781/elon-musk-thinks-humanoid-robots-will-one-day-exceed-human-population-from-nvidias-project-gr00t-to">Tesla</a> and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/37399976/nvidia-microsoft-back-figure-ai-with-675m-investment-for-humanoid-robots-integration">Figure AI have raised billions</a> to bring their own humanoid robots to market.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Spot Finds New Jobs</h2>



Spot, the $75,000 robot dog, has proved versatile across various industries. It's being used to patrol places like Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort, helping the Secret Service with its sensors and cameras. The New York City Fire Department also uses Spot for search-and-rescue missions, keeping human responders safe in dangerous situations. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Spot even supported health care professionals by carrying iPads to talk to patients remotely and reduce PPE usage.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Stretch Shines in Logistics</h2>



Stretch, a robot made for warehouse work, is now being used at the Otto Group's Hermes logistics center in Germany. Stretch's job is to unload heavy boxes, a tiring task that it handles well thanks to its robotic arm and special vacuum grippers. This lets human workers do other, less exhausting jobs. The Otto Group said Stretch has been very helpful and works well with their setup.



Boston Dynamics is still creating amazing robots, but making money from them is challenging and these layoffs show how hard it can be to grow a company that works on cutting-edge technology. Even so, robots like Spot and Stretch are showing how they can make a real difference in industries like health care, logistics and public safety.



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Robotics Company Boston Dynamics Lays Off Human Employees, Admitting It's 'Burning Through Cash'

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