Iran's Foreign Minister&nbsp;Abbas Araghchi&nbsp;warned on Saturday, before the U.S. launched airstrikes on the country's nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, that if the United States got involved in the Israel-Iran conflict, the result would be "very, very dangerous" for everybody. The U.S. launched attacks on Saturday evening around 8:00 pm ET.



"The tweets, interviews by the U.S. President, [it's] quite clear that he&#8217;s talking about the U.S. leadership on these questions [of a potential U.S. involvement]," Aragachi told reporters, <a href="https://time.com/7296396/iran-new-warning-trump-united-states-israel-conflict-dangerous/">according</a> to Time Magazine. &nbsp;"Unfortunately, we have heard that the U.S. may join in this aggression. That would be very unfortunate and I think that would be very, very dangerous for everybody."



President Trump announced the Iran strikes on <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114724035571020048">Truth Social</a>. 



&#8220;We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. All planes are now outside of Iran air space. A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors. There is not another military in the World that could have done this. NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE! Thank you for your attention to this matter.&#8221;



Trump had previously indicated that the U.S. was not involved in the Israeli strikes and that he was intending to give the situation two weeks, implying that U.S.-Iran negotiations were a possibility. Iranian officials replied that talks would not be helpful while Israeli attacks continued.



"In order for us to come back to diplomacy, the aggression should be stopped," Araghchi said. "I cannot go to negotiation with the United States when our people are under bombardment, under the support of the United States."



Following Saturday&#8217;s U.S. bombing, Iranian officials said the country's nuclear agency had already moved all relevant nuclear material from the three sites that were hit, according to MSNBC.



Trump has stated multiple times in the first months of his second term that a deal with Iran would have to include a ban on the nation&#8217;s enriching uranium—something that would allow them to produce nuclear weapons.



He has also called for something more permanent than a cease-fire. 



"We&#8217;re looking for better than a cease-fire," Trump told reporters on Air Force One on June 17 as he left the G7 summit. "A real end, not a cease-fire. An end… giving up, entirely."



Meanwhile, following Saturday&#8217;s U.S. air strikes, Iran has said all communications inside the country had been cut to avoid what officials have called &#8220;Israeli infiltration.&#8221; Per reports, chaos and insecurity have deepened on the ground among Tehran&#8217;s approximately nine million residents.



Photo: Shutterstock

News

Politics

Iran Calls US Bombing Of Nuclear Sites 'Very, Very Dangerous For Everybody'

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 4.25%–4.50% for the sixth straight meeting, with Chair Jerome Powell signaling no near-term cuts despite <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/46011739/jerome-powell-led-fed-has-left-interest-rate-unchanged-what-does-it-mean-for-savings-mortgages-credit-cards-and-your-bank-account" rel="noreferrer noopener">mounting pressure from the White House.</a>



Meanwhile, global uncertainty ticked higher as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed the U.S. remains open to negotiations with Iran, even as President Donald Trump weighs potential military action—<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/06/46017426/trump-gives-iran-2-weeks-to-strike-a-deal-or-face-us-military-action" rel="noreferrer noopener">promising a decision "within the next two weeks."</a>



Amid these macro headlines, the consumer tech sector pressed on with notable developments.



Also Read:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/04/44873349/openai-and-softbanks-stargate-considers-major-uk-investment-to-fuel-ai-growth" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI And SoftBank's Stargate Considers Major UK Investment To Fuel AI Growth</a>



Earnings Results



Accenture (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACN#NYSE">ACN</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $3.49 per share, topping&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/06/46024923/accenture-new-bookings-fall-in-q3-but-it-raises-profit-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">the&nbsp;analyst consensus estimate of $3.31</a>.



Accenture announced a&nbsp;strategic overhaul of its growth model, effective September 1, 2025, with a sharpened focus on AI.



Technology



Nvidia&nbsp;Corporation&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)&nbsp;venture capital arm,&nbsp;NVentures, has joined a $650 million funding round for&nbsp;TerraPower, a nuclear energy company founded by&nbsp;Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)&nbsp;co-founder&nbsp;Bill Gates.



Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is reportedly looking to harness the power of generative artificial intelligence to accelerate the development of the&nbsp;custom chips that power&nbsp;its devices, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010207/apple-hardware-executive-says-iphone-maker-plans-to-use-ai-for-speeding-up-custom-chip-design-high-potential-in-getting-more-design-work-in-less-time" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to senior executive&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010207/apple-hardware-executive-says-iphone-maker-plans-to-use-ai-for-speeding-up-custom-chip-design-high-potential-in-getting-more-design-work-in-less-time" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johny Srouji</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010207/apple-hardware-executive-says-iphone-maker-plans-to-use-ai-for-speeding-up-custom-chip-design-high-potential-in-getting-more-design-work-in-less-time" rel="noreferrer noopener">.</a>



Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXN#NASDAQ">TXN</a>) announced a&nbsp;$60 billion plan&nbsp;to expand U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturing, marking what the company says is the largest investment in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45998624/texas-instruments-announces-60-billion-us-semiconductor-manufacturing-boost" rel="noreferrer noopener">foundational chip production in the nation's history.</a>



Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>)&nbsp;cloud unit is set to launch its second data center in South Korea to capitalize <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46032308/alibaba-expands-ai-cloud-footprint-in-south-korea-with-new-data-hub-launching-in-june" rel="noreferrer noopener">on the generative AI frenzy.</a>



Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>)&nbsp;is reportedly in discussions to hire&nbsp;Nat Friedman, former CEO of&nbsp;GitHub, to support <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010604/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-reportedly-looking-to-hire-former-github-ceo-nat-friedman-and-investor-daniel-gross-as-part-of-aggressive-ai-expansion-strategy" rel="noreferrer noopener">its artificial intelligence efforts</a>.



The&nbsp;Trump Organization&nbsp;is&nbsp;entering the wireless industry&nbsp;with plans to launch a smartphone called the &#8220;T-1 Phone,&#8221; priced at $499 and promoted as being manufactured in the U.S.—a promise experts say may <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45990957/trump-mobile-plans-to-launch-499-t-1-phone-made-in-the-usa-but-expert-says-you-dont-have-the-employees-that-can-do-it" rel="noreferrer noopener">not hold up under scrutiny.</a>



Artificial Intelligence (AI)



Softbank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>)&nbsp;founder&nbsp;Masayoshi Son is spearheading an alliance with&nbsp;Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), proposing a $1 trillion industrial complex in Arizona.



OpenAI chief executive&nbsp;Sam Altman says he &#8220;didn&#8217;t think Elon was going to abuse his power in the government to unfairly compete&#8221; but now believes he was wrong after Tesla&#8217;s founder allegedly tried to derail OpenAI&#8217;s $500 billion <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46023822/sam-altman-says-he-didnt-think-elon-musk-would-abuse-government-power-tesla-ceo-hits-back-with-scam-altman-jibe" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8220;Stargate&#8221; data-center deal.</a>



Automobiles



Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)&nbsp;is reportedly working on a 6-seater <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46020870/elon-musks-tesla-to-expand-model-y-lineup-with-new-6-seater-version-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">variant of the Model Y crossover SUV.</a>



Tesla will shut down production at the Texas Gigafactory, which manufactures the Cybertruck and the Model Y, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45989148/tesla-will-shut-down-production-at-the-texas-gigafactory-over-the-4th-of-july-weekend" rel="noreferrer noopener">over the Independence Day weekend.</a>



Ford Motor Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) has recalled more than 197,000 vehicles in the latest recall over an issue affecting the backseat occupants, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46012477/ford-recalls-over-197000-vehicles-for-backseat-issue-that-could-trap-occupants-in-emergency-situations" rel="noreferrer noopener">where they may remain locked inside the vehicle.</a>



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Markets

Tech

General

AAPL

BABA

GRRR

MSFT

NVDA

SFTBY

TSLA

Consumer Tech News (June 16-June 20): Fed Holds Rates, Trump Eyes Iran Moves, Apple Taps AI, Accenture Shifts Strategy

Each week, Benzinga'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/long-ideas/25/06/45750724/exclusive-mays-20-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-where-do-apple-palantir-coreweave-nvidia-rank" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: May&#8217;s 20 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro — Where Do Apple, Palantir, CoreWeave, Nvidia Rank?</a>



Here&#8217;s a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending June 20:



SS&amp;C Technologies (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNC#NASDAQ">SSNC</a>): The software and solutions for hedge fund and private equity companies saw increased interest from investors with minimal news on the week. The company recently announced it <a href="https://investor.ssctech.com/news-and-events/news-details/2025/SSC-to-Power-Wesleyans-New-Digital-First-Wealth-Platform/default.aspx">partnered </a>with Wesleyan Assurance Society for the mutual fund company's digital-first wealth management platform. SS&amp;C Technologies has beaten analyst estimate for both revenue and earnings per share in six straight quarters and could be one of the stocks most investors haven't heard of. Shares are up 5.3% year-to-date in 2025 with a slight drop during the last trading week.



<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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="501" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957090" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457-300x150.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457-768x385.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>



Roblox (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>): Don't look now, but shares of gaming company Roblox are trading where they were back in late 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company is likely being helped by surprise hit minigame "Grow a Garden," which Roblox users can play. The game is seeing high concurrent user figures for people playing Roblox and also helping increase monetization on the platform. Hit games on Roblox have a tendency to help boost quarterly results with higher in-game spending coming from new and old users. Roblox has also seen a handful of analyst ratings with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RBLX/analyst-ratings">higher price targets </a>including Oppenheimer taking the price target from $80 to $125 and Wedbush taking the price target from $91 to $110. The gaming company<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45859607/roblox-hires-paramounts-cfo-will-naveen-chopra-fuel-the-platforms-next-big-leap"> also announced new </a>Chief Financial Officer Naveen Chopra, who comes with years of experience at Paramount Global. Chopra also previously oversaw Amazon.com's Devices and Services division, helping power growth of items like the Kindle, Alexa and Fire TV. Roblox was also recently announced <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/gaming/25/06/45850712/microsoft-vs-nintendo-handheld-gaming-console-includes-nvidia-vs-amd-battle-which-one-will-come-out-on-top">as a partner</a> for the new Microsoft handheld video game console, which will mark the first time the game can be played natively and be optimized for handhelds. Roblox stock is up 74% year-to-date in 2025 with shares up 9% for the week.



<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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="502" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957091" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458-768x387.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>



Millicom International Cellular (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TIGO#NASDAQ">TIGO</a>): The Latin American telecommunications company saw increased interest from readers during the week, which could be related to the closing of an acquisition. Millicom recently <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/06/13/3099331/0/en/Millicom-Tigo-Strengthens-South-American-Leadership-with-USD-380-Million-Acquisition-of-Telef%C3%B3nica-Ecuador.html">closed </a>the acquisition of Telefónica's telecommunications operations in Ecuador. The deal valued at $380 million will help strengthen Millicom's presence in the company and continued expansion in South America. The company highlighted favorable demographics for Ecuador that could see increased consumer spending and mobile growth. Millicom servs over 46 million customers in its regions. Shares of the company were down on a Scotiabank analyst downgrade during the week, but the stock remains up 43% year-to-date 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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957092" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>



Carlisle Companies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSL#NYSE">CSL</a>): The building materials company saw strong interest from readers on no new news. The company is a leading manufacturer and supplier of roofing products for the commercial building sector. Products include roofing products, insulation and weatherproofing with the company completing many acquisitions in recent years. Carlisle has paid out consecutive and increasing dividends since 1976 and the company has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in eight of the last 10 years. The stock is down 15% year-to-date in 2025 and could be one to watch with the consistent earnings per share beats, dividend increases and interest from readers.



<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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="507" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957093" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>



Vistra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VST#NYSE">VST</a>): The power producer continues to see shares trade higher hitting new all-time highs during the week with shares up 24% year-to-date in 2025 with an already impressive gain during the 2024 year. Readers continued to show strong interest in the stock, which could be related to President Donald Trump's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/mid-cap/25/05/45587750/uranium-stocks-surge-trumps-nuclear-push-sparks-double-digit-gains">comments on nuclear energy </a>and the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45816468/ai-data-centers-are-eating-electricity-and-these-3-energy-stocks-could-be-the-biggest-winners-says-analyst">increased demand</a> likely needed for AI companies. Morgan Stanley <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VST/analyst-ratings">maintained an Overweight rating</a> on the stock and increased the price target from $176 to $186, while UBS maintained a Buy rating on the stock and increased the price target from $160 to $207.



<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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957094" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464-768x388.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>



Stay tuned for next week'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=0620" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>



Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/05/45482435/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-65" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May 16</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/05/45600269/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-66" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May 23</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/05/45710022/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-67" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May 30</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45827517/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-68" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">June 6</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45938888/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-69">June 13</a></li>
</ul>



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Exclusives

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SSNC

TIGO

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

The tech world was abuzz over the week with a variety of stories, each more intriguing than the last. From potential acquisitions to massive data leaks, the weekend was anything but dull. Here&#8217;s a quick roundup of the top stories that shaped the tech landscape over the weekend.



Apple Considers Acquisition of Perplexity AI



Top executives at&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)&nbsp;have reportedly been discussing the potential acquisition of Perplexity AI. Adrian Perica, Apple&#8217;s head of M&amp;A, has been floating the idea with senior leaders, including services chief Eddy Cue, according to Bloomberg.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46041473/apple-eyes-perplexity-ai-acquisition-while-facing-shareholder-lawsuit-over-exaggerated-ai-progress-report">Read the full article here.</a>



Massive Data Leak Exposes Billions of Login Records



A massive data leak has exposed over 16 billion login credentials tied to platforms like Apple, Google, and Facebook. This marks one of the most extensive exposures of personal data in history, according to cybersecurity researchers.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46016990/apple-google-and-facebook-among-services-exposed-in-massive-leak-of-more-than-16-billion-login-records">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45990957/trump-mobile-plans-to-launch-499-t-1-phone-made-in-the-usa-but-expert-says-you-dont-have-the-employe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Mobile Plans To Launch $499 &#8216;T-1 Phone&#8217; Made In The USA: But Expert Says &#8216;You Don&#8217;t Have The Employees That Can Do It&#8217;</a>



Apple to Use AI for Speeding Up Custom Chip Design



Apple is reportedly exploring the use of generative artificial intelligence to accelerate the development of its custom chips. This was revealed by Johny Srouji, Apple&#8217;s senior vice president of hardware technologies, during a speech in Belgium last month.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010207/apple-hardware-executive-says-iphone-maker-plans-to-use-ai-for-speeding-up-custom-chip-design-high-potential-in-getting-more-design-work-in-less-time">Read the full article here.</a>



Apple Avoids $300 Million Patent Penalty



Apple has managed to dodge a $300 million patent infringement penalty after a federal appeals court ruled that faulty jury instructions violated the tech giant&#8217;s constitutional rights in its dispute with patent licensing firm Optis Cellular Technology.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/06/45989818/apple-dodges-300-million-patent-penalty-as-appeals-court-cites-jury-instruction-errors-in-lte-dispute-with-optis">Read the full article here.</a>



Apple Extends iOS 26 Feature to Third-Party Apps



Apple is reportedly extending one of iOS 26&#8217;s new features—animated album art on the lock screen—to third-party music and audio apps. This breaks its exclusive tie to Apple Music.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45942472/apple-opens-ios-26-lock-screen-animation-to-spotify-and-other-third-party-music-apps-report">Read the full article here.</a>



Photo courtesy: jamesteohart / Shutterstock.com



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>

Apple's Potential AI Acquisition, Massive Data Leak, And More: This Week In Appleverse

The past week in the world of finance and technology was nothing short of exciting. From the backing of a crypto-friendly startup bank by big names in tech to the stunning surge of Circle&#8217;s stock, there was no shortage of intriguing developments.



Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories that made headlines.



Anduril And Palantir Founders Back Crypto-Friendly Startup Bank



Palmer Luckey, founder of defense technology startup&nbsp;Anduril Industries, and&nbsp;Joe Lonsdale, co-founder of&nbsp;Palantir Technologies, have reportedly invested in a cryptocurrency-friendly banking startup. The startup aims to provide stability to Silicon Valley and assist tech entrepreneurs in growing their businesses.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45944062/anduril-founder-palmer-luckey-palantir-co-founder-joe-lonsdale-to-invest-in-crypto-friendly-startup-bank-report">Read the full article here.</a>



Circle&#8217;s Stock Skyrockets By 540%



Circle Internet Group, Inc., the issuer behind the USD Coin, saw its stock surge by a whopping 540% since its IPO on June 5. The rally gained further momentum following the U.S. Senate&#8217;s passage of the GENIUS Act, a bill that would formally regulate dollar-backed stablecoins.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46030182/circle-stock-rockets-540-cathie-wood-says-weve-just-begun">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/06/46032425/tokens-are-a-lemon-market-heres-how-to-fix-it" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tokens Are A Lemon Market&#8230;Here&#8217;s How To Fix It</a>



Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Remain Rangebound



Leading cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin, moved sideways as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell signaled slower growth and hotter inflation. Bitcoin consolidated in the $104,000-$105,000 range.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/46010229/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-rangebound-as-fed-chair-jerome-powell-highlights-tariff-induced-uncertainty-analyst-says-these-2-levels-are-key-for-btc">Read the full article here.</a>



Dogecoin Could See A 60% Move



Cryptocurrency analyst Ali Martinez projected a 60% price move for Dogecoin once it breaks free from a symmetrical triangle pattern. This pattern typically indicates a period of consolidation in the market before a potential breakout or breakdown.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/46020265/dogecoin-could-see-a-60-move-if-it-breaks-out-of-this-range-says-analyst-but-what-determines-its-direction">Read the full article here.</a>



Elizabeth Warren&#8217;s Warning on Stablecoins



Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) warned that stablecoin legislation could enable billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos to exploit user data and engage in unfair trade practices. She argued that the GENIUS Act has a major loophole that allows Big Tech and major retailers to issue their own stablecoins.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45965853/elizabeth-warren-says-billionaires-like-jeff-bezos-and-elon-musk-will-track-your-purchases-if-allowed-to-launch-stablecoins-and-stick-you-with-the-bill-when-it-blows-up">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/45990647/trump-financial-disclosures-reveal-barron-trumps-potential-40-million-windfall-from-crypto-project" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Financial Disclosures Reveal Barron Trump&#8217;s Potential $40 Million Windfall From Crypto Project</a></li>
</ul>



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



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Cryptocurrency

Media

Crypto-Friendly Startup Bank, Circle's Stock Surge And More: This Week In Crypto

The past week was a rollercoaster ride for the financial world. From&nbsp;Elon Musk&#8216;s dire warnings about the U.S. debt to&nbsp;Jerome Powell&#8216;s firm stance on interest rates, the week was filled with significant events that could shape the future of the global economy. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories.



Musk Warns Of &#8216;De Facto&#8217; Bankruptcy



Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, CEO of&nbsp;Tesla Inc., raised concerns about the U.S. fiscal outlook. Musk warned that the U.S. is on the brink of &#8220;de facto bankruptcy&#8221; as the federal debt surpasses $37 trillion, with interest payments now accounting for a quarter of all tax revenue.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/45988656/elon-musk-warns-us-faces-de-facto-bankruptcy-if-37-trillion-debt-not-tackled-peter-schiff-says-we-are-already-bankrupt">Read the full article here.</a>



Powell Holds Steady On Interest Rates



Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell defended the decision to keep interest rates unchanged, citing easing inflation and trade and geopolitical risks. Despite three consecutive months of positive inflation data, Powell stated that inflation is still running somewhat above the Fed&#8217;s 2% longer-run objective.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/46006680/powell-holds-line-on-interest-rates-blames-tariff-uncertainty-for-delay-in-cuts">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/06/45888833/mcdonalds-just-got-hammered-by-weight-loss-drugs-twice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McDonald&#8217;s Just Got Hammered By Weight-Loss Drugs — Twice</a>



Swiss Interest Rate Hits Zero



The Swiss National Bank cut its benchmark interest rate to 0%, the lowest level since 2022. This move amplifies the gap between U.S. and Swiss rates to record highs, influenced by declining inflationary pressure and a deteriorating global economic outlook.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/eurozone/25/06/46015245/switzerland-interest-rate-reaches-0-gap-with-fed-funds-soars-to-historic-levels">Read the full article here.</a>



Rate Cut Odds Amid Middle East Tensions



Economist Jon Faust, a former senior advisor to Fed Chair Jerome Powell, suggested that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could significantly alter the equations surrounding a rate cut. Faust believes that the Israel-Iran tensions could potentially tip the U.S. economy into a slowdown.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/45944853/rate-cut-odds-50-50-amid-israel-iran-conflict-says-jerome-powells-ex-advisor-jon-faust">Read the full article here.</a>



Powell Blames Tariffs For Inflation



Jerome Powell, during his press conference, attributed the rise in the inflation median forecast to the effects of tariffs. This statement has left analysts divided, with some believing that the central bank is overplaying the inflation story.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/46011863/jerome-powell-blames-trump-tariffs-for-inflation-analyst-claps-back-says-fed-is-overplaying-the-card">Read the full article here.</a>



Read More:&nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45988475/us-military-action-on-iran-odds-rise-on-crypto-betting-site-polymarket-as-trump-demands-unconditional-surrender" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Military Action On Iran? Odds Rise On Crypto Betting Site Polymarket As Trump Demands ‘Unconditional Surrender'</a></li>
</ul>



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



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Economics

Musk's Debt Warning, Powell's Rate Stance And More: This Week In Economics

Investor caution dominated Wall Street this week, as escalating tensions between Israel and Iran fueled fears of potential U.S. involvement. Plus, the Federal Reserve's decision to keep rates as is peeved President Donald Trump.



The Federal Reserve kept interest rates steady at 4.25%-4.5% for the fourth consecutive meeting, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/46004338/no-rate-cuts-yet-fed-flags-slower-growth-sticky-inflation">reaffirming its cautious stance. </a>



Overall economic uncertainty has &#8220;diminished&#8221; since March, but the Fed warns that risks remain elevated. Policymakers maintain their median projection of two rate cuts in 2025, while trimming the 2026 outlook from three cuts to two — signaling a slightly more hawkish stance.



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/46035360/stock-market-today-news-sp500-nasdaq-trump-iran-bitcoin">S&amp;P 500 Extends Retreat From Highs, Bitcoin Falls Below $103,000: What&#8217;s Driving Markets Friday?</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Powell Defends The Decision</h3>



Federal <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45999380/trump-powell-again-markets-breathe-iran-rejects-demands">Reserve Chair Jerome Powell</a> defended the pause. He argues that while inflation has moderated, it is still too high to justify rate reductions. He cited new inflationary pressures stemming from tariffs tied to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tariffs">trade policy changes</a>.



The Fed now forecasts 2025 headline inflation at 3%, up from 2.7% in March. Meanwhile, GDP growth was revised downward to 1.4% in 2025, from a prior estimate of 1.7%.



However, in a Friday interview with CNBC, Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller said the U.S. central bank could start cutting interest rates <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/25/06/46035535/fed-guv-says-rate-cuts-july-rate-sensitive-etfs-fed-pivot-looms">as early as July</a>.



Waller is a Trump appointee.



Trump, meanwhile, took to calling Powell names in a social media post, labeling the Fed Chair "an American disgrace," arguing that the Fed&#8217;s inaction costs the U.S. billions in higher interest payments.



Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte echoed the sentiment, calling for Powell's immediate resignation and blaming him for damaging the housing market. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/06/45814493/its-a-buyers-market-redfin-reports-there-are-34-more-sellers-in-the-market-than-buyers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Homes are sitting on the market</a> for weeks or even months while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44218740/kevin-oleary-says-prices-arent-going-down-eggs-energy-and-housing-remain-sky-high-but-he-thinks-its-part-of-a-bigger-strategy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">prices remain sky high</a> and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mortgage-rates" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">mortgage rates</a> remain near 6.8%.



Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/46006680/powell-holds-line-on-interest-rates-blames-tariff-uncertainty-for-delay-in-cuts">Why Powell Held Rates Steady, And What Trump&#8217;s Iran Comments Could Mean For Markets</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Energy Sector</h3>



Oil prices, which spiked in the prior week, steadied near $73 per barrel. Powell dismissed parallels with the 1970s oil shocks, stating that while further price spikes are possible, they are unlikely to generate persistent inflationary effects.



Meanwhile, two major Congressional developments shaped market action. The Senate's draft tax bill proposed phasing out clean energy and solar tax credits earlier than anticipated, sparking a steep sell-off in renewables. 



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>First Solar Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>) tumbled 13% on the week</li>



<li>Enphase Energy Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENPH#NASDAQ">ENPH</a>) dropped 18%, and </li>



<li>Sunrun (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RUN#NASDAQ">RUN</a>) plunged 35%.</li>
</ul>



On The Crypto Front: Coinbase Global Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) surged 27% on the week after the Senate passed a bill establishing a federal framework for dollar-pegged cryptocurrencies, known as stablecoins.



The bill offers what its supporters argue is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46025145/saks-stablecoin-bill-treasury-buying-trump-ties-cloud-push">long-awaited regulatory clarity</a> that could unleash capital from institutional investors. Critics, mostly Democrats, say it&#8217;s a conflict of interest <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45995223/genius-stablecoin-bill-clears-senate-but-trumps-crypto-profits-loom-over-momentum">for the Trump family</a>.



Now Read:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/eurozone/25/06/46026714/this-rare-market-dynamic-preceded-the-dot-com-crash-its-back-in-2025">This Rare Market Dynamic Preceded The Dot-Com Crash — It&#8217;s Back In 2025 </a></li>
</ul>



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Government

Large Cap

Macro Economic Events

Regulations

Econ #s

Federal Reserve

COIN

ENPH

FSLR

Wall Street Wavers As Geopolitical Tensions Flare, Trump Renews Attacks On Fed Chair Powell: This Week In Markets

The week was abuzz with political and business news, with headlines dominated by the ongoing legal battle between California and the Trump administration, escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, and Elon Musk&#8217;s decision to step away from politics. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories.



California vs. Trump: The National Guard Dispute Intensifies



California&#8217;s legal conflict with the Trump administration over the deployment of military forces in Los Angeles has taken a new turn. An appeals court decision has provided Trump with a procedural advantage, allowing him to maintain control over the National Guard troops he deployed amid protests against immigration raids.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46041458/california-trump-legal-battle-over-national-guard-deployment-escalates-after-court-ruling">Read the full article here.</a>



Iranian Official Calls on Trump to End Conflict with Israel



An Iranian official has stated that diplomacy with the U.S. could resume instantly—if Donald Trump ordered Israel to stop bombing Iran. Majid Farahani, an official with Iran&#8217;s presidency, said the U.S. holds the key to ending the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46041289/trump-could-stop-this-war-with-one-phone-call-says-iranian-official-as-tehran-warns-us-of-retaliation-if-conflict-with-israel-escalates">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46022419/elon-musk-says-cleaning-up-government-is-like-picking-up-trash-on-a-beach-before-a-thousand-foot-ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Says Cleaning Up Government Is Like Picking Up Trash On A Beach Before A Thousand-Foot AI Tsunami Hits—And That&#8217;s Why He&#8217;s Done With Politics</a>



Elon Musk Steps Away from Politics



Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), has announced that he&#8217;s done with politics. Speaking at the AI Startup School by Y Combinator, Musk described his brief stint in the federal government as a "side quest" that quickly proved less impactful than his core mission, which is building transformative technologies.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46022419/elon-musk-says-cleaning-up-government-is-like-picking-up-trash-on-a-beach-before-a-thousand-foot-ai-tsunami-hits-and-thats-why-hes-done-with-politics">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump Applauds Senate&#8217;s Passing of Stablecoin Legislation



President Donald Trump has praised the Senate's passing of the stablecoin legislation, urging Congress to get it to his desk without delays. In a Truth social post, Trump said that the "incredible" GENIUS Act would position the U.S. as the "undisputed" leader in digital assets.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46009971/trump-cheers-incredible-stablecoin-bill-passed-by-senate-get-it-to-my-desk-asap-no-delays">Read the full article here.</a>



Musk Responds to Trump&#8217;s Drug Accusations



In response to Trump&#8217;s &#8216;big-time drug addict&#8217; jibe, Elon Musk posted laboratory results showing negative drug test results for over 20 substances, including cocaine, opiates, and cannabinoids. Musk shared the lab report with a simple "lol" comment.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45968031/elon-musk-claps-back-at-trumps-big-time-drug-addict-jibe-says-he-tested-negative-for-over-20-substances">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46041289/trump-could-stop-this-war-with-one-phone-call-says-iranian-official-as-tehran-warns-us-of-retaliation-if-conflict-with-israel-escalates" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Could Stop This War With One Phone Call, Says Iranian Official As Tehran Warns US Of Retaliation If Conflict With Israel Escalates &#8211; Benzinga</a>



Photo courtesy: Maxim Elramsisy / Shutterstock.com



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>

Trump's Legal Win, Iran's Plea, Musk's Exit And More: This Week In Politics

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.



Escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, and President Donald Trump's renewed attacks on Fed Chair Jerome Powell, unsettled markets this week. The Federal Reserve held rates at 4.25-4.5%, cut its 2026 rate‑cut outlook, and signaled two cuts in 2025 amid growing inflation concerns. Trump called Powell "an American disgrace," renewing calls for outsized rate cuts.



Markets fluctuated on geopolitical and central‑bank uncertainty. Energy and defense stocks lagged, while treasury yields climbed modestly as investors weighed inflation risks. Renewables fell following proposed tax‑credit rollbacks.



Looking ahead, investors are watching Fed nominations — Trump hinted at replacing Powell — as well as developments in the Middle East and next week's economic data. Any signals on Fed independence or geopolitical escalation could significantly sway sentiment.



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/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46030182/circle-stock-rockets-540-cathie-wood-says-weve-just-begun">"Circle stock rockets 540%: Cathie Wood says ‘we've just begun'"</a>, by Erica Kollmann, reports that Circle Internet Group Inc. (NYSE: CRCL) shares have surged 540% since their June 5 IPO — hitting $199.59 — after a Senate vote on the GENIUS Act and bullish remarks from ARK Invest's Cathie Wood, who said "we've just begun on a very big journey here."



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/06/45994711/uranium-stocks-on-11-week-tear-their-longest-winning-streak-in-history">"Uranium stocks on 11‑week tear — their longest winning streak in history"</a>, by Surbhi Jain, reports that uranium equities and ETFs — including Global X Uranium ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/URA#NYSE">URA</a>) and Sprott Uranium Miners ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/URNM#NYSE">URNM</a>) — have rallied for 11 consecutive weeks, marking their longest uninterrupted winning streak on record.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/46007657/gorilla-technology-stock-surges-on-q1-earnings-as-momentum-builds">"Gorilla Technology stock surges on Q1 earnings as momentum builds"</a>, by Adam Eckert, reports that Gorilla Technology Group Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRRR#NASDAQ">GRRR</a>) shares climbed sharply after Q1 results showed revenue doubled to $18.26 million year-over-year and adjusted earnings swung to a $0.23 profit from a $1.47 loss, while its $5 billion pipeline and $33.8 million cash position bolstered investor confidence.



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



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/06/45999930/aptevo-therapeutics-touts-data-from-investigational-drug-trial-for-aggressive-blood-cancer">Aptevo Therapeutics Touts Data From Investigational Drug Trial For Aggressive Blood Cancer</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/46007657/gorilla-technology-stock-surges-on-q1-earnings-as-momentum-builds">Oklo Stock Is Rising Again: What's Going On?</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45982049/vertiv-holdings-stock-25-off-highs-is-now-riding-nvidias-ai-wave">Vertiv Holdings Stock, 25% Off Highs, Is Now Riding Nvidia's AI Wave</a>







The Bears



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/downgrades/25/06/45981680/sunrun-receives-downgrade-as-analyst-warns-business-model-relies-on-inflated-system-values-for-tax-credits">"Sunrun receives downgrade as analyst warns business model relies on inflated system values for tax credits"</a>, by Anusuya Lahiri, reports that Sunrun Inc. (NASDAQ: RUN) was downgraded to Sell by GLJ Research's Gordon L. Johnson II, who warned that the company depends on overstating solar system values to claim tax credits — an exposure that the pending Senate bill could curtail and threaten its cash flow.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/travel/25/06/45983684/jetblue-ceo-more-cuts-ahead-as-airline-faces-prolonged-losses">"JetBlue CEO: More cuts ahead as airline faces prolonged losses"</a>, by Erica Kollmann, reports that CEO Joanna Geraghty warned employees that weak travel demand has forced JetBlue Airways Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBLU#NASDAQ">JBLU</a>) to implement further flight and cost reductions and to delay its break-even target, potentially prolonging losses despite planned capacity cuts and route eliminations.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/25/06/46000107/mcdonalds-stock-slips-below-200-day-line-can-the-big-arch-reverse-the-slide">"McDonald's stock slips below 200‑day line — can ‘The Big Arch' reverse the slide"</a>, by Surbhi  Jain, reports that McDonald's Corp. (NYSE: MCD) shares have fallen below their 200‑day moving average — alongside key technical indicators like an RSI of 25.75 and a bearish MACD — while options markets reflect little optimism despite the launch of the "Big Arch" burger.



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



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/06/45984979/beyond-air-stock-dips-after-mixed-q4-results-heres-what-to-know">Beyond Air Stock Dips After Mixed Q4 Results: Here's What To Know</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis/25/06/45997534/canadian-medical-marijuana-firm-aurora-cannabis-expects-weak-demand-in-international-market">Canadian Medical Marijuana Firm Aurora Cannabis Expects Weak Demand In International Market</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45995637/houston-american-energy-stock-is-sinking-wednesday-heres-why">Houston American Energy Stock Is Sinking Wednesday: Here's Why</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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APVO

CRCL

HUSA

JBLU

OKLO

URNM

XAIR

Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Circle, Sunrun, JetBlue — And Mideast Has Markets Nervous

Billionaire Elon Musk is worth <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/06/45932793/elon-musk-net-worth-down-64-billion-in-2025-but-tesla-ceo-still-richer-than-value-of-ford-general-mo">more than $350 billion</a>, giving the Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO the opportunity to buy nearly anything he wants.



While Musk doesn't own any yachts or multiple houses anymore, the billionaire had no problem spending $1 million to buy a famous movie car back in 2013.



What Happened:&nbsp;One of the most expensive personal items ever purchased is the car from the James Bond movie "The Spy Who Loved Me," which he bought in 2013 for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/04/31727712/5-of-the-craziest-things-elon-musk-has-spent-his-money-on" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">nearly one million dollars</a>.



In the 1977 movie, which stars&nbsp;Roger Moore&nbsp;as Bond, a sports car that can transform into a submarine and fire missiles underwater is featured. The vehicle was nicknamed "Wet Nellie" and saw a marine engineering firm convert it into a functional submarine. A retired U.S. Navy SEAL in full scuba gear helped perform the underwater scenes in the movie.



While buying the famous vehicle might be a crazy story for Musk, it's an even crazier story for the couple that once owned it.



A couple from New York purchased an unclaimed storage unit for $100 in 1989 via a blind auction, which means unlike the storage unit auctions you may have seen on TV, the bidders couldn't see what was inside or even open the door.



As reported by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/12/01/couple-paid-100-for-car-elon-musk-bought-it-from-them-for-6-figures.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CNBC</a>, the couple found the 1976 Lotus Espirit sports car when they opened the unit after winning. Surprisingly enough, the couple had never watched a James Bond movie.



"They really didn't know what it was," Ian Fleming Foundation Co-Founder&nbsp;Doug Redenius&nbsp;told NBC in 2013. Redenius helped authenticate the car for the couple, who ran a construction tool renting business at the time.



"They had no idea how valuable their discovery was."



According to the story, the couple loaded the car onto a truck and while driving it home were told several times by truckers via CB radio that it was a James Bond car that they were hauling. The discovery led to the husband going out and renting the Bond film on VHS to see the car in the movie.



The couple "cosmetically restored" the vehicle and featured it in exhibits before deciding to part ways and put it up for auction in 2013.



The car purchased by Musk is one of eight that was used during the filming of the 1977 film, but is the only one that was used in the underwater scenes. After filming, the car went into a storage unit.



Musk bought the vehicle anonymously in a 2013 auction with RM Sotheby's. The purchase price was $997,000 for the James Bond car.



It was later revealed that Musk was the buyer of the vehicle.



Are you buying when the CEOs of the Magnificent 7 are selling?



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<li>Stay in the know with our Insider Trades page — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">see when leaders like Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, and Jensen Huang are offloading their own shares.</a></li>
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Musk a Fan Of James Bond:&nbsp;Musk has said in interviews that he was a fan of James Bond movies, particularly "The Spy Who Loved Me."



"It was amazing as a little kid in South Africa to watch James Bond in ‘The Spy Who Loved Me' drive his Lotus Espirit off a pier, press a button and have it transform into a submarine understeer," Musk said previously.



In a 2013 interview, Musk said that he was disappointed the James Bond car he bought didn't actually transform.



"What I'm going to do is upgrade it with a Tesla electric powertrain and try to make it transform for real."



Tesla&nbsp;investors and customers may be familiar with the design of the vehicle featured in the James Bond movie. Musk has called the vehicle a major inspiration for the highly anticipated Tesla Cybertruck electric pickup truck.



"Cybertruck design influenced partly by The Spy Who Loved Me," Musk&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1197638937109336066" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">tweeted&nbsp;</a>in 2019.



Along with being influenced by The Spy Who Loved Me, the Cybertruck design was also inspired by the "Blade Runner" film.



&#8220;I specifically wanted to make something that looks like the future,&#8221; Musk <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/12/36104426/elon-musk-wanted-to-make-a-vehicle-for-the-future-one-that-blade-runner-would-drive">said in an interview</a>. &#8220;What car would Blade Runner drive?&#8221;



Musk has&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1252098355062173696" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">teased&nbsp;</a>for years that the Cybertruck would be able to drive through water, a reference to the underwater capabilities of "Wet Nellie."



It&#8217;s hard to believe that a $100 storage unit purchase by a couple in 1989 led to a one million dollar payday, and also may have played a hand in the design of the Cybertruck.&nbsp;



While the Cybertruck may not live up to Musk's once lofty expectations based on current demand trends, the unique vehicle design will likely be talked about for decades.



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&nbsp;This article was previously published by Benzinga and has been updated.



Photo: Shutterstock

Entertainment

Education

Elon Musk Paid $1M For A James Bond Car — It Was Found In A $100 Storage Unit

Mark Cuban didn't always own NBA teams and billion-dollar businesses. Long before the Dallas Mavericks, long before &#8220;Shark Tank,&#8221; he was just a kid growing up in Pittsburgh, watching his dad grind out 60-hour weeks <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/37384456/mark-cuban-credits-fathers-wisdom-for-billion-dollar-success-story-his-job-didnt-have-a-future">upholstering car seats</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Life-Changing Milestone</h2>



Cuban still remembers the moment he told his dad Norton that he had made $100,000 in a single year. &#8220;He cried,&#8221; Cuban said in a 2019 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMnrZWXID_s">interview</a> on &#8220;The Dan Patrick Show.&#8221; &#8220;He did upholstery on cars and I don&#8217;t think he ever made more than $40,000 in a year.&#8221;



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The money wasn't just a number. For Cuban, it meant freedom. For his father, it was pride. "It wasn't so much that it was hard for him," Cuban added. "But we would go out to dinner and he would still pull out the credit card. Even when it was my credit card, he gave me a death stare, like, &#8216;Don&#8217;t even think about paying.'&#8221;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Lesson That Shaped His Life</h2>



Cuban also credits his work ethic and values to his dad, who gave him a key piece of advice when he was 14: &#8220;Time is your most valuable asset.&#8221;



&#8220;His time was never his own,&#8221; Cuban told <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/02/28/mark-cuban-built-his-career-using-advice-his-dad-gave-him-at-age-14.html">CNBC</a> last year. &#8220;He wanted me to create my own path.&#8221;



That mindset pushed Cuban to chase independence over a high-paying job. He wanted to control his schedule and never answer to anyone else.&nbsp;



Cuban started <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/06/39440861/mark-cuban-began-his-millions-selling-garbage-bags-for-6-the-worlds-first-garbage-bag-door-to-do">selling trash bags</a> door to door at age 12, then stamps and coins. In college, he taught disco lessons for $25 an hour and opened a bar using the money from side hustles. His first big win came when he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42638290/mark-cubans-wealth-journey-i-want-to-live-off-this-for-a-long-time">sold MicroSolutions for $6 million</a> in 1990. Less than a decade later, Yahoo acquired his next company, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/10/41234173/how-mark-cuban-turned-broadcast-com-into-5-7b-sale-we-were-the-youtube-of-our-day">Broadcast.com, for $5.7 billion</a>.



Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Still Just Dad</h2>



Despite the success, Cuban says some things never changed. His dad moved to Dallas after Mark <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44571779/mark-cubans-big-revelation-says-he-lost-hundreds-of-millions-owning-the-dallas-mavericks">bought the Mavericks</a>, but kept his same humble approach. &#8220;I couldn&#8217;t get him to retire, and finally that was kind of the impetus for him to retire and come down to Dallas and live and just hang out and go to Mavs games,&#8221; Cuban said.&nbsp;



He never gave his dad one big gift. Instead, he gave him the option to go anywhere in the world. His dad took full advantage, cruising across the globe and collecting friends along the way. &#8220;I&#8217;d get emails from random people who met my dad on cruises,&#8221; Cuban told Patrick.



And at home? Cuban might be a billionaire, but to his kids, he&#8217;s still just Dad. &#8220;One of my daughters says, &#8216;You don't know anything about business, Dad,'&#8221; Cuban joked on Theo Von&#8216;s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiK6IWhDbWU">podcast</a> last year.&nbsp;



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Image: Shutterstock

When Mark Cuban Hit $100,000, He Told His Dad, Who'd Never Earned Even Half That. 'He Just Started Crying'

Donald Trump Jr. has joined billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban in publicly voicing disapproval of Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.)&#8217;s approach to healthcare pricing.



Despite their political differences, Trump Jr. and Cuban found a common point of contention in Warren&#8217;s healthcare pricing strategy. They criticized the senator for not addressing&nbsp;the role of pharmacy benefit&nbsp;managers (PBMs) in escalating drug costs.



Warren had previously argued&nbsp;that the tax system was&nbsp;&#8220;rigged&#8221;&nbsp;because large pharmaceutical companies like&nbsp;Johnson &amp; Johnson&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>) often escape federal taxes while charging exorbitant prices for their drugs. 



She wrote on X saying that the "highest drug prices in the WORLD while often paying ZERO dollars in federal taxes themselves."



<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">Big Pharma companies like Johnson &amp; Johnson and Pfizer charge Americans the highest drug prices in the WORLD while often paying ZERO dollars in federal taxes themselves. Why? Because our tax system is rigged. Now, Republicans want to make it worse. I&#39;m fighting back. <a href="https://t.co/k7dFrXBneX">pic.twitter.com/k7dFrXBneX</a>&mdash; Elizabeth Warren (@SenWarren) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenWarren/status/1935443373487440373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



Cuban countered this by stating that PBMs, not pharmaceutical companies, are the ones controlling and manipulating drug pricing.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43245984/cuban-on-musk-i-have-no-problem-throwing-elon-under-the-bus-but-ill-save-it-for-when-its-truly-deser">Cuban on Musk: &#8216;I Have No Problem Throwing Elon Under the Bus, but I&#8217;ll Save It for When It&#8217;s Truly Deserved&#8217;</a>



Trump Jr. publicly supported Cuban&#8217;s viewpoint on X, despite Cuban&#8217;s well-known opposition to President Trump. This unexpected agreement highlights the growing concern over the role of PBMs in healthcare pricing.



<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">Didn't think I'd be RTing Mark for a while, but he's 100% right on this issue. <a href="https://t.co/ofraK5IFQk">https://t.co/ofraK5IFQk</a>&mdash; Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) <a href="https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumpJr/status/1935817600891601345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 19, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



PBMs have been facing increasing scrutiny from federal regulators and lawmakers due to their influence on healthcare pricing. 



In 2020, the Federal Trade Commission released a report criticizing PBMs for imposing unfair terms on independent pharmacies, thereby favoring large corporate pharmacies like&nbsp;CVS&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVS#NYSE">CVS</a>).



The public criticism from Trump Jr. and Cuban underscores the growing debate over the role of PBMs in healthcare pricing. 



Warren&#8217;s focus on pharmaceutical companies, while not entirely misplaced, overlooks the significant influence of PBMs in determining drug prices.



The Federal Trade Commission&#8217;s report from last year further highlights the need for regulatory scrutiny of PBMs. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how lawmakers will address the issue of healthcare pricing and the role of PBMs in the future.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45829489/mark-cuban-reacts-to-elon-musk-donald-trump-feud">Mark Cuban Reacts to Elon Musk-Donald Trump Feud</a>



Image: Shutterstock/lev radin

Donald Trump Jr. Joins Mark Cuban In Slamming Elizabeth Warren on Healthcare Pricing

Elon Musk has leveled a public accusation against Sergio Gor, a senior aide to President Donald Trump, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45827968/trump-vs-musk-betting-markets-anticipate-next-move-in-musk-trump-feud-predict-low-chances-of-musk-forming-political-party">alleging a federal crime</a>.



What Happened: Musk asserts that Gor, currently serving as the director of the presidential personnel office, falsified his birthplace on federal forms, a misstep Musk labels as a &#8220;serious crime.&#8221;



This accusation surfaces amidst a growing dispute between Musk and Gor, which Musk suggests has strained his relationship with President Trump.



The allegations from Musk were triggered by a series of social media posts by race car driver Igor Sushko, who labeled Gor as a &#8220;Russian spy.&#8221; Sushko had disseminated a New York Post story that cast doubt on Gor&#8217;s birthplace, among other articles.



<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">He deliberately lied about where he was born on Federal forms. That's a serious crime.&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1936106956634439911?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 20, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



At the heart of Musk&#8217;s allegation is his claim that Gor neglected to fill out his own SF-86, a vital vetting form needed for U.S security clearance. 



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45829416/trump-allegedly-calling-people-to-claim-elon-musk-has-serious-drug-problem-big-time-drug-addict">Trump Allegedly Calling People To Claim Elon Musk Has Serious Drug Problem: &#8216;Big-Time Drug Addict&#8217;</a>



This is despite Gor&#8217;s responsibility in&nbsp;vetting thousands of executive branch&nbsp;employees. The White House, however, maintains that Gor has completed the form and possesses the necessary clearance.



The conflict between Musk and Gor has been intensifying since Gor allegedly swayed Trump to retract the nomination of Musk&#8217;s friend, Jared Isaacman, for a leadership position at NASA. This event reportedly led to a rift between Musk and Trump, which has been under the public eye.



Why It Matters: The ongoing feud between Musk and Gor has significant implications, particularly considering Musk&#8217;s influential role in the tech industry and Gor&#8217;s position within the Trump administration. 



The fallout between Musk and Trump could potentially impact future collaborations between Musk&#8217;s companies and the federal government. 



Furthermore, the allegations against Gor, if proven true, could lead to serious legal consequences and shake up the current administration.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45828246/trump-warns-musk-against-aiding-democrats-hell-have-to-pay-serious-consequences-if-he-does-that" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Warns Musk Against Aiding Democrats: ‘He'll Have To Pay Serious Consequences If He Does That'</a>



Image: Shutterstock

Elon Musk Levels Federal Crime Accusation Against Trump Aide Sergio Gor

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