Benzinga examined the prospects for <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">many investors' favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here's a look at some of our top stories.



U.S. markets faced heightened volatility this week as the Trump administration intensified trade restrictions, notably imposing new export controls on Nvidia's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) H20 AI chip to China. Nvidia projected a $5.5 billion revenue impact, leading to an 8.5% drop in its stock and a broader 3% decline in the semiconductor sector.



Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell cautioned that the tariffs could exacerbate inflation, prompting criticism from President Donald Trump. Amid these tensions, gold prices surged to a record $3,330 per ounce, reflecting increased investor anxiety.



In corporate earnings, UnitedHealth Group's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) unexpected downward revision of its full-year guidance led to a 22.4% plunge in its stock — the steepest single-day drop since 1998. Conversely, Netflix (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) reported strong performance, providing some optimism amid the market turbulence.



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



The Bulls



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/04/44877995/netflix-crushes-q1-says-its-working-hard-to-improve-and-expand-its-offering">"Netflix crushes Q1, says it's ‘working hard to improve and expand' its offering"</a>, by Chris Katje, reports that Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) exceeded expectations with $10.54 billion in Q1 revenue, a 12.5% year-over-year increase, driven by higher subscription and ad revenue, while emphasizing plans to enhance its content lineup — including the June 27 return of Squid Game — and expand its ad tech platform globally.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/04/44824755/palantir-stock-is-on-fire-this-week-outpacing-broader-markets-whats-going-on">"Palantir stock is on fire this week, outpacing broader markets: What's going on?"</a>, by Adam Eckert, reports that Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) shares rose nearly 25% over five sessions after announcing a partnership with NATO Allied Command Operations to supply AI-enabled warfighting technology, a move Wedbush analyst Dan Ives called a "major win" that validates the company's platform.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44878381/eli-lilly-rallies-over-14-notches-best-day-since-june-2000-on-oral-weight-loss-drug-results-analysts-react">"Eli Lilly rallies over 14%, notches best day since June 2000 on oral weight-loss drug results: Analysts react"</a>, by Piero Cingari, reports that Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) shares surged 14.36% — marking their best day since June 2000 — after its oral GLP-1 drug orforglipron achieved significant weight loss and blood sugar control in a Phase 3 trial, prompting analysts to dub it a potential "Ozempic in a pill."



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



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/04/44853443/hertz-stock-accelerates-into-the-close-shares-continue-to-move-higher-after-hours-heres-why">Hertz Stock Accelerates Into The Close, Shares Continue To Move Higher After Hours: Here's Why</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44870886/why-nvidia-meta-and-3-more-are-this-strategists-top-buys-this-week-and-why">Nvidia, Meta And 3 More Stocks Are This Strategist's Top Buys: Here's Why</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/04/44817059/usa-rare-earth-stock-continues-to-surge-whats-going-on">USA Rare Earth Stock Continues To Surge: What's Going On?</a>



The Bears



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/04/44860240/unitedhealth-slashes-2025-outlook-on-medicare-funding-reductions-stock-crashes">"UnitedHealth slashes 2025 outlook on Medicare funding reductions, stock crashes"</a>, by Vandana Singh, reports that UnitedHealth Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) shares plunged over 22% after the company cut its 2025 adjusted EPS guidance to $26–$26.50, citing higher-than-expected care activity in its Medicare Advantage business and reduced reimbursement rates.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44789084/starbucks-stock-brews-a-bitter-blend-of-boycotts-and-bearish-charts">"Starbucks Stock Brews A Bitter Blend Of Boycotts And Bearish Charts"</a>, by Surbhi Jain, reports that Starbucks Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>) shares have declined nearly 13% over the past month as the company faces political backlash from a viral #BoycottStarbucks campaign and bearish technical indicators, with the stock trading below its 8-, 20-, 50-, and 200-day simple moving averages.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/04/44802241/applied-digital-q3-earnings-revenue-misses-estimates-despite-strong-cloud-services-growth-shares-slide">"Applied Digital Q3 earnings: Revenue misses estimates despite strong cloud services growth, shares slide"</a>, by Adam Eckert, reports that Applied Digital Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APLD#NASDAQ">APLD</a>) posted third-quarter revenue of $52.9 million — falling short of analyst expectations of $63.42 million — while its Cloud Services division grew 220% year-over-year, and the company recorded an adjusted loss of 8 cents per share, beating estimates for an 11-cent loss.



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



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44841356/chip-stocks-are-facing-selling-pressure-wednesday-heres-why">Chip Stocks Are Facing Selling Pressure Wednesday: Here's Why</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/04/44850301/target-under-pressure-from-discretionary-spend-slowdown-mounting-inventory-risk-goldman-sachs-downgrades-stock">Target Under Pressure From Discretionary Spend Slowdown, Mounting Inventory Risk, Goldman Sachs Downgrades Stock</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44802015/us-electric-vehicle-sales-up-11-in-q1-as-tesla-declines-the-winners-and-losers">Tesla Loses Steam In Q1 While US EV Sales Climb: The Winners And Losers</a>



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



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Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Netflix, UnitedHealth, Eli Lilly — And Market Volatility Continues

Wall Street wrapped up a shortened trading week ahead of the Easter holiday in the red, weighed down by fresh export restrictions on chips to China that sent tech <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/chipmakers">and semiconductor stocks tumbling.</a>



On Tuesday, Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) revealed it was notified by the Trump administration on April 9 that its H20 AI chip would now require an export license to be sold in China. The company warned that these tighter controls could slash its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44846329/nvidias-china-sales-face-setback-as-h20-chip-restrictions-catch-key-buyers-off-guard-reuters">earnings by $5.5 billion.</a>



Nvidia shares dropped 8.5% this week, erasing nearly half of the previous week&#8217;s gains. The broader semiconductor sector – as tracked by the iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>) – followed suit, sliding 3% and logging its seventh weekly decline <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/04/44860240/unitedhealth-slashes-2025-outlook-on-medicare-funding-reductions-stock-crashes">out of the past eight.</a>



First-quarter earnings season delivered a mixed bag. While banks and streaming giant Netflix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) showed solid performance, UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) shocked investors by slashing its full-year guidance far below Wall Street expectations.



UnitedHealth shares plummeted 22.4% on Thursday, marking their worst one-day drop since 1998.



In trade news, Canada announced a six-month suspension of countermeasure tariffs on select U.S. goods essential for domestic manufacturing and food packaging. This move is expected to ease cross-border supply chain pressures, particularly<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44816653/canada-eases-retaliatory-tariffs-on-us-goods-as-trade-tensions-thaw-under-softer-trump-stance-stocks-react"> benefiting Michigan-based automakers.</a>



On the macro front, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell flagged inflation and growth risks stemming from trade tariffs, reiterating the Fed&#8217;s cautious stance and signaling that rate cuts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/04/44848474/fed-chair-powell-says-tariffs-lead-to-temporary-rise-in-inflation">won&#8217;t come prematurely.</a>



This cautious tone triggered an angry response from President Donald Trump, who blasted Powell as "always too late" on rate cuts and hinted at prematurely removing him from office, despite Powell's term <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44862662/trump-pressures-fed-as-ecb-delivers-7th-straight-rate-cut">running through May 2026.</a>



Meanwhile, the European Central Bank executed its sixth consecutive rate cut, further fueling Trump's public frustration with the Fed. During an Oval Office meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Trump doubled down, declaring that Powell &#8220;will be out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/04/44875406/hell-be-out-if-i-ask-him-can-trumps-threat-to-oust-powell-shake-the-fed">if the President asks.&#8221;</a>



Gold continues to defy gravity, fueled by strong investor demand, heightened policy uncertainty, and persistent central bank buying.



Bullion prices – as tracked by the SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>) – soared to $3,330 per ounce, marking a new all-time high and extending gains to 14 of the past 16 weeks.



Read now: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/04/44885051/netflix-beats-wall-street-forecasts-yet-goldman-sachs-sees-limited-upside-ahead">Netflix Beats Wall Street Forecasts, Yet Goldman Sachs Sees Limited Upside Ahead</a></li>
</ul>



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Trump Blasts Powell, Nvidia Tumbles On New Export Ban, Gold Defies Gravity: This Week In Markets

Each week, Benzinga&#8217;s Stock Whisper Index uses a combination of proprietary data and pattern recognition to showcase five stocks that are just under the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/stock-whisper-index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface and deserve attention</a>.



Investors are constantly on the hunt for undervalued, under-followed and emerging stocks. With countless methods available to retail traders, the challenge often lies in sifting through the abundance of information to uncover new opportunities and understand why certain stocks should be of interest.



Read Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/04/44597684/exclusive-marchs-20-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-where-do-tesla-nvidia-apple-applovin-stock-rank" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: March's 20 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro — Where Do Tesla, Nvidia, Apple, Applovin Stock Rank?</a>



Here's a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending April 17:



Equinix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQIX#NASDAQ">EQIX</a>): The data center company saw strong interest from readers during the week. Citigroup recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EQIX/analyst-ratings">maintained a Buy </a>rating on the stock and lowered the price target from $1,020 to $970. Mizuho also lowered the price target from $1,094 to $1,053 recently while maintaining an Outperform rating. All eyes are likely centered on the company's upcoming first-quarter earnings report on April 30. Analysts expect the company to report revenue of $2.22 billion, up from $2.13 billion in last year's first quarter. Analysts expect the company to report quarterly earnings per share of $9.09, up from $8.86 in last year's first quarter. The company has had recent mixed results beating earnings per share in three of the last four quarters, while missing revenue estimates in four straight quarters. The stock was up around 5% over the last five trading sessions, as shown on the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0417"> Benzinga Pro chart</a> below.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href=" https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0417"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17174940/Screenshot-379.png" alt="" class="wp-image-877779" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17174940/Screenshot-379.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17174940/Screenshot-379-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17174940/Screenshot-379-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>



Prologics Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLD#NYSE">PLD</a>): The industrial and logistics REIT saw strong interest from readers during the week and rejoins the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/04/44651693/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet">Stock Whisper Index.</a> On April 16, the company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/04/44837972/prologis-beats-q1-ffo-estimate-same-store-noi-up-6-2-y-y-more">reported earnings per share </a>of $1.42 that beat a Street consensus estimate of $1.38, while revenue of $2.00 billion missed a Street consensus estimate of $2.04 billion. The company has had mixed recent results, beating earnings per share in fourth straight quarters, while missing revenue estimates from analysts in six straight quarters. Several analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PLD/analyst-ratings">lowered their price targets </a>on the stock recently. While the quarterly results showed growth, management commentary said that customers were being more cautious given "policy uncertainty." The company reiterated full-year guidance, but the commentary could be something to watch going forward.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href=" https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0417"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="991" height="499" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17174955/Screenshot-380.png" alt="" class="wp-image-877780" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17174955/Screenshot-380.png 991w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17174955/Screenshot-380-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17174955/Screenshot-380-768x387.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 991px) 100vw, 991px" /></a></figure>



Alamos Gold Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AGI#NYSE">AGI</a>): Gold stocks continue to be hot with Benzinga readers with Alamos taking its turn on the Stock Whisper Index with gold at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/treasuries/25/04/44857989/gold-nears-3400-mark-experts-point-to-likely-correction-amid-bull-market-rates-will-drop-like-rock">all-time highs</a>. The stock recently got several <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AGI/analyst-ratings">price target increases</a> from analysts including Scotiabank and RBC Capital. Investors are preparing for the company to report first-quarter financial results on April 30. Analysts expect the company to report revenue of $357.2 million and earnings per share of 23 cents. The company has beaten revenue estimates from analysts in four straight quarters and seven of the last 10 quarters overall. On the earnings side, the company has beaten analyst estimates for EPS in seven of the last 10 quarters overall. Shares are up 98% over the last year and could have more upside from a strong earnings report and positive commentary on how the strong prices of gold are helping the company's future financials.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href=" https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0417"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1001" height="501" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175012/Screenshot-381.png" alt="" class="wp-image-877781" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175012/Screenshot-381.png 1001w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175012/Screenshot-381-300x150.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175012/Screenshot-381-768x384.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1001px) 100vw, 1001px" /></a></figure>



Boston Scientific Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BSX#NYSE">BSX</a>): The medical devices company saw strong interest from readers during the week, which comes ahead of fourth-quarter financial results. The company also received <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BSX/analyst-ratings">an analyst upgrade</a> from Hold to Buy from Needham with a new price target of $113. Boston Scientific is set to report first-quarter financial results on April 23. Analysts expect the company to report revenue of $4.57 billion, up from $3.86 billion in last year's first quarter. The company has beaten analyst revenue estimates in more than 10 straight quarters. Analysts expect the company to report earnings per share of 67 cents, up from 56 cents per share in last year's first quarter. The company has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in eight straight quarters. There are some concerns about<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/04/44652075/us-tariffs-spare-drugmakers-but-threaten-diabetes-device-industry"> how tariffs could impact </a>medical devices, but Boston Scientific has remained a strong performer in the sector. The company said 2024 was one of the best years <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/02/43494194/boston-scientific-clocks-22-jump-in-q4-sales-on-strong-heart-devices-profit-and-guidance-exceeds-expectations">in its history</a>. Investors will be looking for a strong first quarter and positive commentary to kick things off in 2025.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href=" https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0417"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1001" height="497" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175026/Screenshot-382.png" alt="" class="wp-image-877784" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175026/Screenshot-382.png 1001w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175026/Screenshot-382-300x149.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175026/Screenshot-382-768x381.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1001px) 100vw, 1001px" /></a></figure>



American Express Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>): The credit card company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/04/44862333/american-express-q1-card-spending-strong-ceo-maintains-annual-outlook-contingent-on-economic-climate">reported first-quarter</a> financial results on Thursday with earnings per share of $3.64 beating an analyst estimate of $3.47 and revenue of $16.97 billion beating an analyst estimate of $16.94 billion. The company has beaten analyst estimates for revenue in two straight quarters and for earnings per share in four of the last five quarters. In the earnings results, the company reported strong Card Member spending and higher net interest income. The company said it is seeing steady spending and credit trends despite the macroeconomic concerns. Bank of America recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/upgrades/25/04/44768565/american-express-receives-upgrade-what-makes-this-stock-so-appealing">upgraded the stock</a> from Neutral to Buy given it high-quality customer base that could keep credit losses in check. During uncertain times, credit card spending could increase and American Express remains a stock to watch with the stock up around 16% over the last year.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href=" https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0417"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175041/Screenshot-383.png" alt="" class="wp-image-877785" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175041/Screenshot-383.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175041/Screenshot-383-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/17175041/Screenshot-383-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>



Stay tuned for next week&#8217;s report, and follow Benzinga Pro for all the latest headlines and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0417" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>



Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44333602/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">March 14</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/03/44448522/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-58" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">March 21</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/03/44546189/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-59" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">March 28</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/04/44651693/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet">April 4</a></li>
</ul>



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/01/43041374/exclusive-how-high-will-sp-500-go-under-donald-trump-in-2025-readers-are-optimistic-26-say-this" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: How High Will S&amp;P 500 Go Under Donald Trump In 2025? Readers Are Optimistic, 26% Say This…</a></li>
</ul>

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EQIX

Benzinga's 'Stock Whisper' Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don't Talk About Yet

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New On The Block</h2>



<ul>
<li>Willow Tree Credit Partners seeks to sell a minority stake and is soliciting potential buyers, according <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-04-15/private-credit-firm-willow-tree-is-said-to-explore-stake-sale?sref=TBDibEcD">to</a> Bloomberg. The New York-based firm has about $5 billion in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/asset-management">assets under management</a>.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Bloomberg also <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-04-16/partners-group-said-to-weigh-options-for-telepass-stake-in-italy?sref=TBDibEcD">reports</a> that Zurich-based Partners Group is divesting a 49% stake in Italian toll road business Telepass. It first purchased the stake in 2021. Italy's Benetton family maintains control with a 51% stake.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Updates From The Block</h2>



<ul>
<li>GeneDx (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WSG#NASDAQ">WSG</a>) agreed to acquire Fabric Genomics, a pioneer in AI-powered genomic interpretation, for $33 million in cash . Upon achieving certain milestones, the total price tag <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44843916/genedx-eyes-global-genomic-leadership-with-fabric-genomics-buyout-for-up-to-51-million">could potentially reach $51 million</a>.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Axios broke the news that a New Zealand-based metaverse company called Futureverse <a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/16/candy-digital-futureverse-mlb-nft">acquired</a> NFT startup Candy Digital. Major League Baseball, Netflix and DC Comics are among Candy Digital&#8217;s partners. That wasn&#8217;t the only metaverse deal this past week.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Infinite Reality, which boasts a $15-billion valuation, agreed to buy agentic AI company Touchcast for $500 million. Last month, Infinitie Reality acquired digital music innovator Napster <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44546940/deal-dispatch-bezos-backed-crop-company-wilts-tech-startup-nabs-napster-for-207-million">for $207 million</a>.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Lyft, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LYFT#NASDAQ">LYFT</a>) announced that it purchased a taxi app from BMW Group and Mercedes-Benz Mobility for €175 million <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44841871/lyft-expands-to-europe-with-e175m-freenow-acquisition-targets-bookings-by-e1b-annually">($197 million) in cash</a>.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Off The Block</h2>



<ul>
<li>Onsemi (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ON#NASDAQ">ON</a>) terminated its efforts to acquire Allegro MicroSystems, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALGM#NASDAQ">ALGM</a>). In early March, Allegro received a proposal from Onsemi, or ON Semiconductor Corporation, for $35.10 per share, with an implied <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/03/b44157898/onsemi-proposes-to-acquire-allegro-microsystems-for-35-10-per-share-in-cash" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">enterprise value of $6.9 billion</a>.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Paychex (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PAYX#NASDAQ">PAYX</a>) closed its $4.1-billion acquisition of payroll and HR software firm Paycor HCM. The deal was first <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42855388/paychex-buys-paycor-41-billion-deal-to-strengthen-ai-driven-hr-solutions">announced in January</a>.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>TPG completed its $2.2-billion take-private buyout of Altus Power, the largest owner of commercial-scale solar in the U.S. Approximately 40% of the company&#8217;s stock is already committed to the deal. Altus Power expects the transaction to officially close <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43537313/why-altus-power-stock-is-gaining-today">within the second quarter</a>.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bankruptcy On The Block</h2>



<ul>
<li>Consolidated Burger Holdings, a Burger King franchisee operating 57 locations across Florida and Georgia, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The company, based in Destin, Florida, cited financial struggles worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, including reduced foot traffic and declining revenue, while costs like rent and debt service remained high. Its restaurants include sites in cities like Valdosta, Tallahassee, West Palm Beach, and Naples, with four located inside Walmart stores.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>The House Committee on Energy and Commerce is investigating 23andMe&#8216;s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, raising concerns about the security of its sensitive genetic data. Lawmakers fear the company&#8217;s genetic database could be compromised as its assets are <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/25/03/44456578/why-dna-test-provider-23andmes-stock-is-plunging-today">now up for sale</a>. In a letter to interim CEO Joe Selsavage, three Republican congressmen requested answers about the company&#8217;s data and privacy practices by May 1. The inquiry follows similar concerns from the FTC and the House Oversight Committee. Once valued at $6 billion, 23andMe has struggled to maintain revenue and expand into research and therapeutics.</li>
</ul>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/asset-sales/25/04/44771660/deal-dispatch-harley-davidson-prada-versace-fashionable-price">Check out last week&#8217;s edition of the Deal Dispatch</a>.



Now Read:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44876137/grant-cardone-explains-the-art-of-negotiating-it-takes-4-things-to-make-a-deal">Grant Cardone Explains The Art Of Negotiating: &#8216;It Takes 4 Things To Make A Deal&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Asset Sales

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GRPN

LYFT

PAYX

Deal Dispatch: Metaverse Mergers, 23andMe Under Investigation, Burger King Franchise Goes Bankrupt

From the halls of Congress to the streets of New York, cannabis news bloomed in every direction this week. Slovenia introduced what may become Europe's most progressive medical cannabis law. U.S. lawmakers filed new federal reform legislation. Trulieve and Curaleaf took diverging paths in Florida. And Governor Ron DeSantis faces questions over whether public funds were funneled into anti-cannabis campaigns.



Elsewhere, Weedmaps dropped a custom sneaker collab, Swatch&#8217;s 4/20-friendly watch returned to the spotlight and a massive new cancer study delivered groundbreaking validation for medical cannabis. Avicanna posted record earnings, Minnesota crossed a regulatory milestone and Blue Violets made delivery history in New Jersey.



Here's everything you need to know.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Business And Financial Moves</h3>



Avicanna Reports Record Year



Avicanna Inc. (TSX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVCN#TSX">AVCN</a>) (OTCQX:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVCNF#OTCQX">AVCNF</a>) reported audited financial results for 2024, including $25.5 million in revenue—a 52% increase over 2023—and gross profits of $12.9 million, up 94%. Consolidated gross margins improved to 51%, while adjusted EBITDA losses narrowed by 68% to $1.4 million. The company also repaid $1.3 million in debt.



CEO Aras Azadian called 2024 "our most successful year to date," citing clinical innovation, international expansion, and commercial growth in Canada and abroad.



Key 2024 milestones include:



<ul>
<li>A real-world evidence study in Canada evaluating cannabis for conditions like pain, sleep, anxiety and epilepsy</li>



<li>A completed study at The Hospital for Sick Children assessing CBD topical creams for wound healing</li>



<li>Drug approval in Colombia for Trunerox, targeting rare epileptic disorders</li>



<li>First delivery of CBD/CBG topicals to a multinational pharmaceutical company</li>



<li>Two new U.S. patents for topical and oral cannabinoid delivery technologies</li>
</ul>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/04/44802163/why-cannabis-focused-biopharma-co-avicanna-traded-up-26-today">Read the full story here</a>.



Tilray Plans Reverse Stock Split



Tilray Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLRY#NASDAQ">TLRY</a>) will hold a special shareholder meeting on June 10 to vote on a proposed reverse stock split ranging from 1-for-10 to 1-for-20. CEO Irwin Simon said the move aims to maintain Nasdaq compliance, reduce costs by more than $1 million per year, and attract institutional investors. The company recently reported over $248 million in cash and trimmed debt by $76 million.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/04/44871447/why-cannabis-co-tilray-tlry-is-trading-down-today">Read more on Benzinga</a>



Safe Harbor and FundCanna Join Forces



SHF Holdings, d/b/a Safe Harbor Financial (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHFS#NASDAQ">SHFS</a>), announced a strategic partnership with FundCanna to provide cannabis operators with streamlined access to capital and compliant banking services. The agreement enables mutual referrals and onboarding of FundCanna-approved clients into Safe Harbor-managed accounts.



"This partnership delivers a practical, scalable solution that puts the financial needs of cannabis operators first," said Safe Harbor CEO Terry Mendez.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Politics, Policy And Regulation</h3>



Congress Reintroduces STATES 2.0 Act



A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers reintroduced the STATES 2.0 Act, which would shield legal cannabis activity from federal interference. The bill would also legalize interstate commerce, normalize IRS treatment of cannabis businesses and establish a framework for federal oversight and testing.



"The current federal approach to cannabis policy is not working," said Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH), co-chair of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus. "The STATES 2.0 Act creates a more logical approach that protects states' rights while improving public safety."



The bill maintains FDA oversight for cannabis products, removes barriers to tax deductions under Section 280E, and instructs federal agencies to begin rulemaking within 180 days of passage. Supporters include Reps. Max Miller (R-OH), Dina Titus (D-NV) and a coalition of advocacy organizations including CPEAR, Americans for Prosperity, and the U.S. Cannabis Roundtable.



<a class="" href="https://www.marijuanamoment.net">Read more via Marijuana Moment</a>



Minnesota Finalizes Adult-Use Cannabis Rules



The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) announced that final adult-use rules were published in the State Register and are now in effect. With this step completed, OCM can begin issuing business licenses to qualifying applicants, including more than 600 social equity applicants already advanced through preapproval.



"We are continuing to prioritize social equity in every stage of licensing," said Jess Jackson, OCM's director of social equity. Licenses for capped categories such as cultivator and retailer will be awarded via lottery later this summer, while uncapped license types will be distributed on a rolling basis.



<a class="" href="https://cannabis.mn.gov">Details available on the OCM Rulemaking page</a>



Slovenia Unveils Progressive Medical Cannabis Law



Slovenia's Parliament introduced sweeping medical cannabis reforms that would legalize the cultivation, production and distribution of cannabis for medical and scientific use. The bill eliminates public tenders, allows open licensing for private companies and removes cannabis and THC from the country's prohibited drugs list—so long as products meet GACP, GMP and European Pharmacopeia standards.



Cannabis will be available via standard medical or veterinary prescriptions, and patient access is guaranteed through pharmacies, licensed distributors and healthcare providers.



The legislation follows a 2024 referendum in which 66.7% of voters supported cannabis cultivation and legalization for medical use. According to ICBC, the new framework would position Slovenia as having the most advanced medical cannabis law in Europe.



<a class="" href="https://internationalcbc.com/slovenian-parliament-introduces-europes-most-progressive-medical-cannabis-law">Full article via ICBC</a>



DeSantis Faces Scrutiny Over Anti-Cannabis Funding



A Miami Herald investigation revealed that the DeSantis administration steered $10 million from a legal Medicaid settlement to a charity led by Florida First Lady Casey DeSantis. That charity then gave $5 million each to two organizations backing a political committee that opposed Amendment 3, the failed 2024 initiative to legalize adult-use cannabis in Florida.



The money flowed from the Hope Florida Foundation to Secure Florida's Future and Save Our Society from Drugs, which then routed millions to Keep Florida Clean, a DeSantis-aligned committee. Republican lawmakers are now demanding records and investigating whether public funds were improperly used to fight cannabis legalization.



<a class="" href="https://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/article304020886.html">Full investigation by the Miami Herald</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">State Moves And Brand Power Plays</h3>



Carmelo Anthony Launches STAYME7O In New York



Carmelo Anthony has entered the New York cannabis market with STAYME7O, a premium cannabis brand launched in partnership with Grand National, the creative agency he co-founded with Jesce Horton and Brandon Drew Jordan Pierce. The product line features curated flower cultivated by Oregon-based LOWD, with an emphasis on sustainability and unique genetics.



"This isn't just about cannabis—it's about empowering our communities," Anthony said. A portion of proceeds will support NuProject and the Last Prisoner Project, continuing the brand's focus on economic equity and justice reform.



<a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/25/04/44801792/carmelo-anthony-enters-new-york-cannabis-market-all-about-his-product-line-and-creative-agency">Full story on Benzinga</a>



Curaleaf Turns Dispensary Into Hemp Shop



Curaleaf (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTC">CURLF</a>) has converted one of its medical dispensaries in West Palm Beach into a hemp-focused retail store called The Hemp Company. The location will offer Farm Bill-compliant THC products from Curaleaf brands and partners like 1906 and Cann.



The move comes as Curaleaf distances itself from Florida's stalled adult-use push and signals short-term interest in the rapidly growing hemp-derived THC segment.



Trulieve Invests $19.6M To Revive Legalization Push



Trulieve (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTC">TCNNF</a>) contributed $19.6 million to Smart &amp; Safe Florida to support another attempt at adult-use legalization in 2026. That's in addition to the $145 million the company spent on the failed 2024 initiative.



So far, only 150,804 signatures have been verified out of the 880,062 needed to qualify for the next ballot, raising questions about whether other operators will step in to help fund the campaign.



Herbwell Cannabis Targets Manhattan's Elite



Herbwell, a national cannabis chain, is opening a luxury dispensary at 519 Madison Avenue—possibly the only one of its kind on the high-end Manhattan corridor. The shop promises a curated experience for both seasoned users and curious first-timers.



"We've built a gorgeous dispensary that fits in on Madison Avenue," said CEO Arish Halani. "One day we'll be doing collabs with the biggest brands in the world."



The brand is also planning to open a cannabis club in the building's upper floors, including a rooftop lounge overlooking Midtown, pending future regulations.



New Jersey's First E-Bike Weed Delivery



Hoboken dispensary Blue Violets has launched New Jersey's first cannabis delivery service by e-bike, in partnership with delivery tech company Priscotty. The program is live in Hoboken and parts of Jersey City and Weehawken.



"We want to reach our customers when they can't make their way to the store—but in a way that makes sense," said Lauren Thompson, co-owner of Blue Violets.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Culture And Commentary</h3>



Mike Tyson Becomes CEO Of Carma HoldCo



Boxing legend Mike Tyson has taken the reins as CEO of Carma HoldCo, the company behind TYSON 2.0, Ric Flair Drip, Evol by Future and Wooooo! Energy. The move marks Tyson's shift from brand ambassador to active executive, steering a portfolio built on cultural storytelling and celebrity power.



"This isn't just a title—it's a responsibility I take seriously," Tyson said. Under his leadership, Carma plans to double down on authenticity, community engagement and global expansion.



<a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/04/44871633/mike-tyson-cannabis-ceo-the-champ-now-runs-carma-holdco">Read the full story on Benzinga</a>



Weedmaps Drops 420 1's Sneaker Collab With CEEZE



In one of the most buzzworthy 4/20 drops of the year, Weedmaps and custom sneaker studio CEEZE released the limited-edition "420 1's." Each of the 420 pairs is individually numbered, housed in an acrylic box with LED lighting and linked to a microsite via QR code.



The Friends &amp; Family version even includes GPS coordinates pointing to the historic San Francisco Cannabis Buyers Club. A sweepstakes is running through April 20, offering 20 pairs and one VIP trip to Spannabis.



<a class="" href="https://weedmaps.com/wm-sneakers-420-1s">Details and entry here</a>



Swatch's 4/20 Watch Gets a Second Life



Swatch's "Up In Smoke" watch from 2024 has found new life this April. With minty green hues, smoke-dial graphics and a laid-back BIOCERAMIC case, the piece fits right into the 4/20 aesthetic. Originally part of the BIG BOLD collection, the watch has quietly become a seasonal flex for cannabis aficionados.



<a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/04/44878425/swatchs-up-in-smoke-watch-is-the-low-key-flex-of-4-20-season">Read the full feature on Benzinga</a>



Dreka Gates, Tiffany Haddish And Chamath Sound Off



Cannabis was also front and center in this week's cultural commentary. Highlights include:



<ul>
<li>Dreka Gates, in an exclusive interview, said: "Cannabis would be a trillion-dollar industry for Black and Brown communities—if it hadn't been criminalized." <a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/04/39798605/dreka-gates-cannabis-would-be-a-trillion-dollar-industry-for-black-and-brown-communities-if-it-h">Read more</a></li>



<li>Tiffany Haddish remarked that "If men had period pain, weed would already be legal." <a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/04/39797136/tiffany-haddish-if-men-had-period-pain-weed-would-already-be-legal">Full story here</a></li>



<li>Chamath Palihapitiya criticized the industry, saying legalization "turned our kids into zombies." <a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/04/44831042/chamath-palihapitiya-calls-for-mandate-on-insidious-marijuana-labelling-and-toxicity-says-its-turning-kids-into-zombies">His take here</a></li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Science And Health</h3>



Landmark Study Confirms Cannabis Benefits for Cancer Patients



In what may be the most comprehensive review of its kind, Cancer Playbook and the Whole Health Oncology Institute published a meta-analysis of over 10,000 peer-reviewed studies on medical cannabis and cancer. The result: a 3-to-1 scientific consensus in favor of cannabis for treating cancer-related symptoms, including inflammation, metastasis, appetite loss and pain.



"We expected controversy. What we found was overwhelming scientific consensus," said Ryan Castle, WHOI's head of research.



The study also incorporated patient-reported outcomes to highlight real-world effectiveness—marking a shift toward more holistic, experience-driven research models. Findings from this report were submitted to the DEA as part of the case for rescheduling cannabis.



<a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/04/44835610/game-changing-study-confirms-medical-cannabis-helps-cancer-patients-we-found-overwhelming-scientific-consensus">Link to the full Benzinga article</a>



Israel Slaps 165% Tariffs on Canadian Cannabis



In a dramatic turn, Israel's Ministry of Economy announced it will impose tariffs of up to 165% on Canadian cannabis imports for the next four years. The decision—pending approval by the Knesset Finance Committee—carves out exceptions for select producers like Decibel (12%), Village Farms (28%), Organigram (53%) and Tilray (70%).



The move signals a potential realignment of the global cannabis trade, with implications for both exporters and Israeli medical patients.



<a class="" href="https://stratcann.com">More via StratCann</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Recommended Reads</h3>



<ul>
<li><a class="" href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2025/04/14/he-sold-his-cannabis-vape-brand-for-nine-figures-now-hes-coming-for-your-cocktail/">He Sold His Cannabis Vape Brand for Nine Figures—Now He's Coming for Your Cocktail</a></li>



<li><a class="" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/04/44818968/how-one-european-company-is-flooding-america-with-cannabis-seeds">How One European Company Is Flooding America With Cannabis Seeds</a></li>
</ul>



That&#8217;s it for this week. See you next Friday!

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This Week In Cannabis: Carmelo's NY Launch, Federal Reform, Cancer Study, Avicanna's Growth, Tilray's Split, DeSantis Fallout, Slovenia's Big Move And More

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