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Qantas Airways is Australia's largest domestic airline with typically a two thirds market share, effectively competing in a duopoly with Virgin. The company operates a multibrand strategy, with low-cost carrier Jetstar complementing the full-service Qantas brand. Its frequent-flyer loyalty program continues to expand with new partnerships, which are integral to retaining customer loyalty for its core airline business.

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Editor&rsquo;s note: This article was originally published in August 2024. It has been updated in April 2025 for clarity and to reflect changes in the German cannabis market.
&ldquo;When <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis">cannabis</a> is regulated, it only helps, it doesn&rsquo;t hurt. At this point, there&rsquo;s no way to&nbsp;not&nbsp;regulate it and help everybody as opposed to pushing it off like it&rsquo;s something that doesn&rsquo;t matter. We&rsquo;re past that point. This isn&rsquo;t the Stone Age; it&rsquo;s the Stoned Age.&rdquo; Ultra-famous rapper and entrepreneur <a href="https://elplanteo.com/exclusiva-wiz-khalifa-duki/">Wiz Khalifa</a> leans back, a cloud of smoke lingering in the air as he reflects on the state of cannabis legalization.
For a man who has built an empire on a plant once demonized by governments worldwide, Wiz speaks with the authority of someone who has witnessed&mdash;and driven&mdash;the tides of change in both culture and industry. His brand, Khalifa Kush, launched roughly a decade ago and now synonymous with premium cannabis, recently expanded into the European market, starting with Germany.
<h3>&lsquo;All The Older Cats Smoked&rsquo;</h3>
Developing a love for cannabis was almost inevitable for Wiz. Growing up in the studio, surrounded by more experienced musicians who smoked while they created, the herb became intertwined with his creative process. &ldquo;That&rsquo;s all I&rsquo;ve ever been around: smoking and creating,&rdquo; he reflects. &ldquo;Being around a lot of musicians, all the older cats smoked. When they came to the studio, they would roll up. It didn&rsquo;t matter if they were 21, 22, or a little bit older; if they had businesses, family, all that&hellip; they would come to the studio and that would be their time to chill out, smoke and create.&rdquo;
As he got older and more established in his career, Wiz&rsquo;s connection with cannabis deepened. &ldquo;The older I got and the more I started to do, I would hang out with people like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2021/04/19/curreny-on-his-upcoming-nft-only-album-smoke-sesh-with-fans-its-so-many-things-its-tangible/" target="_self" title="https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2021/04/19/curreny-on-his-upcoming-nft-only-album-smoke-sesh-with-fans-its-so-many-things-its-tangible/">Curren$y</a>, and we would smoke and just go on cool-*ss missions, do things and meet people. This was when Twitter was really popular. So I met a really good group of people, and we could just gather around pot and music; that was our lifestyle. That&rsquo;s what it really became for me: a community of like-minded people and we were able to grow. As the laws changed and became less harsh, we were able to more freely express ourselves through pot.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/09/40717334/exclusive-wiz-khalifa-on-his-favorite-smoke-spots-handling-weed-free-countries-smoking-makes-eve">Wiz Khalifa On His Favorite Smoke Spots &amp; Handling Weed-Free Countries: &#39;Smoking Makes Everything Better, But There Are Other Things To Do In Life&#39;</a>
Over time, his relationship with cannabis evolved from a personal passion to a business venture: Khalifa Kush. But this wasn&rsquo;t just about branding a product; it was about sharing an experience, a lifestyle he loved, with the world.
Khalifa Kush began, as Wiz recalls, &ldquo;probably 10 to 12 years ago&rdquo; when he connected with Berner, a rapper and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2020/09/16/berner/" target="_self" title="https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2020/09/16/berner/">major figure in the cannabis space</a>. This friendship was the catalyst for what would become a leading brand in the industry. &ldquo;He [Berner] showed me everything about the business of cannabis: how to create strains and how to move forward with it,&rdquo; Wiz explains. The brand quickly became known for its strong OG strain, catering to both heavy smokers and those new to cannabis, offering &ldquo;the best types of highs and the best experience with cannabis.&rdquo;
<h3>Germany: The Gateway To Europe</h3>
Khalifa Kush officially entered the German market in 2024, a move that had been years in the making. &ldquo;We&rsquo;ve had our eye on the German market for a few years now,&rdquo; said DJ Saul, CEO of Khalifa Kush. The company partnered with Berlin-based Sanity Group, a leader in the German medical cannabis sector, to ensure a premium, fully compliant product rollout.
<img alt="Wiz Khalifa closes his Germany distribution deal" src="https://imageio.forbes.com/specials-images/imageserve/66bbc3384f5f2a8849a50a23/Wiz-Khalifa-closes-his-Germany-distribution-deal/960x0.jpg?format=jpg&amp;width=1440" style="height:450px; width:362px" />
Wiz Khalifa closes his Germany distribution deal - Courtesy of Khalifa Kush
Wiz saw a perfect match in Sanity Group. &ldquo;They understand us, our brand, and how to grow [cannabis]... And they&rsquo;re willing to grow themselves,&rdquo; Wiz explains. &ldquo;Having everything aligned and being able to move forward without being stuck in the usual processes is really important to me.&rdquo;
Germany legalized limited adult-use cannabis in April 2024, allowing possession, personal cultivation and non-profit cannabis clubs. This shift created new opportunities for brands like Khalifa Kush to reach a wider consumer base while maintaining a medical focus through partnerships with pharmacies.
Sanity Group&rsquo;s CEO and founder, Finn Haensel, emphasized the synergy: &ldquo;We believe in the power of genetics and that different genetics can have different positive impacts on patients depending on their indication.&rdquo; The collaboration between Khalifa Kush and Sanity Group&rsquo;s medical brand, avvay Medical, introduced Khalifa Kush&rsquo;s unique strains to more than 3,000 pharmacies across Germany.
<h3>&lsquo;Fully Compliant At All Times&rsquo;</h3>
Bringing a U.S. celebrity brand into Germany&rsquo;s highly regulated cannabis market wasn&rsquo;t easy. DJ Saul stresses that compliance and quality control were critical priorities. &ldquo;We work closely with our partners to ensure every product that reaches customers adheres to our brand standards across multiple metrics&mdash;THC%, humidity levels, trim, etc.&mdash;all while staying compliant in each market,&rdquo; he said.
Finn Haensel of Sanity Group confirms: &ldquo;The advertising of pharmaceuticals in Germany is regulated via the pharmaceutical advertising law (&ldquo;HWG&rdquo;), which we are fully compliant with at all times.&rdquo;
Also read:&nbsp;<a class="post-card-article-link" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/04/42205205/gary-payton-wants-you-to-rethink-cannabis-its-about-mental-health-it-brought-my-mom-back-in-her-">Gary Payton Wants You To Rethink Cannabis: &#39;It&#39;s About Mental Health&hellip; It Brought My Mom Back In Her Final Days&#39;</a>
While Khalifa Kush is known in the U.S. primarily as a recreational brand, its entry into Germany emphasized the medical benefits of its genetics, a strategic move as the country&#39;s adult-use market slowly matures.
<h3>Does Cannabis Make You Lazy?</h3>
Addressing lingering stereotypes about cannabis, Wiz Khalifa acknowledges, &ldquo;I don&#39;t blame people for thinking that [cannabis makes you less productive], because smoking weed does put you in a place where everything feels good.&rdquo;
He emphasizes that maturity plays a role in responsible use. &ldquo;I think it&#39;s an age thing. You have to be at the age to smoke weed responsibly and be productive. It just depends on where you&#39;re at in your life,&rdquo; he says. &ldquo;If you have to work every day or have responsibilities, smoking isn&#39;t going to fit into the schedule as much as it would for someone like me.&rdquo;
<h3>&lsquo;Definitely Snoop,&rsquo; Horseback Riding With Lenny Kravitz And &lsquo;The Stoner Mount Rushmore&rsquo;</h3>
Reflecting on iconic smoking sessions, Wiz names Snoop Dogg and Juicy J among his favorite collaborators. &ldquo;Meeting Snoop, rolling up with Snoop, being able to go joint for joint with Snoop&mdash;that was the highlight of my smoking career,&rdquo; he says.
He dreams of blazing with Bob Marley and imagines sharing joints with Lenny Kravitz, perhaps even horseback riding after a smoke session. &ldquo;That would be cool as hell,&rdquo; he laughs.
<h3>A Vision For Global Expansion</h3>
Looking ahead, Khalifa Kush continues to pursue international growth. &ldquo;Our goal is to continue expanding across the U.S. and Europe (where possible) in the coming years, without sacrificing product quality,&rdquo; says Saul.
The brand is also exploring opportunities in Central and South America, Asia, and the Middle East. For Wiz, the mission remains clear: &ldquo;I want to be one of the trailblazers as far as quality goes&mdash;not just trying to make money or take advantage of the laws changing, but actually helping people with a good plant and a good product.&rdquo;
Read next:&nbsp;<a class="post-card-article-link" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/04/44992856/willy-wonka-of-weed-opens-the-doors-to-the-raw-factory-heres-what-we-saw">&#39;Willy Wonka Of Weed&#39; Opens The Doors To The RAW Factory: Here&#39;s What We Saw</a>
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6TRFUO4_Yng?si=4C9kdLb-5IxIfTAU" width="560"></iframe>
This article was originally published on <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2024/08/14/a-world-where-everyone-can-smoke-like-wiz-khalifas-cannabis-brand-hits-germany/" target="_blank">Forbes</a> and appears here with permission.&nbsp;The article is from an external source. It does not represent Benzinga&#39;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.
Follow me on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.twitter.com/javierhasse" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Twitter</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/javierhasse/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.&nbsp;Check out&nbsp;my&nbsp;<a href="https://elplanteo.com/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">website</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;some of my other work&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/cannabis" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.&nbsp;
Photo courtesy of Khalifa Kush

Cannabis

Eurozone

Markets

General

Wiz Khalifa Talks Smoking With Snoop, Dreaming Of Bob Marley, Riding Horses With Lenny Kravitz And Selling Weed In Germany

A growing number of Americans are concerned about their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/personal-finance">personal finance situation</a>.
In a new national <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/04/22/gallup-poll-american-personal-finance/83217865007/">survey</a>, more than half of respondents — 53% — said their personal financial situation is getting worse, marking the highest level of financial pessimism recorded since the poll began more than two decades ago.
The findings highlight a deepening sense of economic unease. Only 38% of those surveyed said their financial situation is improving, down from 43% a year ago. The previous lows for this sentiment were during major economic downturns in 2008, 2020, and 2023, underscoring the weight of current anxieties.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44948841/trump-economic-approval-rating-drops-to-37-as-market-selloff-erodes-public-support-poll">Trump Economic Approval Rating Drops To 37% As Market Selloff Erodes Public Support</a>
While <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42173927/how-rich-are-you-find-out-whether-you-rank-as-upper-middle-or-lower-class-based-on-income-and-other-factors">lower-income households</a> were more likely to report worsening finances, the decline in optimism was felt across all income brackets. 
The survey also revealed notable partisan divides: most respondents from one political party reported declining financial conditions, while those aligned with the opposing party expressed a more optimistic view. These splits suggest that political outlooks continue to influence perceptions of economic well-being.
In addition to personal finances, expectations about the broader economy have taken a downturn. More than half of respondents now expect the stock market to decline, a reversal from earlier this year when optimism was stronger. 
Inflation is also top of mind, with a growing number of people believing that prices will continue to rise in the months ahead. Similarly, nearly half of respondents expect unemployment to increase, signaling broader concerns about job security and the strength of the labor market.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic Shifts</h2>
These shifts come amid recent economic and political developments that may be shaping consumer sentiment. From fluctuating markets to high-profile policy announcements, uncertainty appears to be weighing heavily on how Americans view both their current situations and the country's financial future.
The surge in financial pessimism raises questions about spending habits, savings, and long-term planning. If these trends continue, they could have ripple effects on the broader economy — from slower <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-spending">consumer spending</a> to reduced investment in housing, education, and other major life decisions.
For now, the survey paints a sobering picture: Americans are bracing for tougher times ahead, and confidence in both personal and national economic outlooks is on the decline.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44449091/trump-claims-egg-prices-are-way-down-as-us-plans-imports-from-turkey-and-south-korea">Trump Administration Insists Egg Prices Are Down, Plans To Import From Turkey And South Korea</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Financial Advisors

Most Americans Say Their Finances Are Getting Worse, Survey Finds

Economist Peter Schiff says that President Donald Trump&#8217;s Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)-centric policy contradicts his aim of correcting the U.S. trade imbalance with the world.
What Happened:&nbsp;In an X post on Saturday, Schiff wrote, &#8220;Trump&#8217;s&nbsp;goals of solving the problems&nbsp;leading to our huge trade&nbsp;deficits and making America a&nbsp;Bitcoin superpower are at odds&nbsp;with one another.&#8221;
Schiff asserted that &#8220;scarce&#8221; resources meant for increasing production were being diverted to cryptocurrency ventures, leaving the country reliant on imports and widening the trade deficit. 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Trump&#39;s goals of solving the problems leading to our huge trade deficits and making America a Bitcoin superpower are at odds with one another. The more of our scarce resource we divert to crypto, the more we depend on the rest of the world to produce the stuff we actually need.
&mdash; Peter Schiff (@PeterSchiff) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeterSchiff/status/1916176331110314440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
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See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/45003759/arks-bitcoin-bear-case-is-300000-by-2030-whats-the-bull-case" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ARK&#8217;s Bitcoin &#8216;Bear Case&#8217; Is $300,000 By 2030—What&#8217;s The Bull Case?</a>
X user Synergy Media countered Schiff&#8217;s argument, contending that building a Bitcoin-powered economy creates digital value.
Schiff replied, &#8220;But no value is created. Resources are just wasted as money just moves from Bitcoin buyers to Bitcoin sellers.&#8221;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">But no value is created. Resources are just wasted as money just moves from Bitcoin buyers to Bitcoin sellers.
&mdash; Peter Schiff (@PeterSchiff) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeterSchiff/status/1916177259603415089?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Notably, Trump has initiated an unprecedented protectionist approach, imposing sweeping import duties on key trade partners such as China and Canada, to address the increasing trade deficit, which <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44613907/tariff-shock-incoming-as-trump-prepares-sweeping-trade-duties-what-traders-need-to-know">exceeded</a> $1.2 trillion in 2024.
Why It Matters:&nbsp; Schiff has been one of the foremost anti-Bitcoin voices, questioning the rationale of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44183572/trump-establishes-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-funded-by-forfeited-assets-i-made-the-promise">U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve</a> since its announcement in March.
Earlier this week, he pushed back the idea of Bitcoin as a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44928800/bitcoin-is-dependent-on-the-us-not-a-non-dollar-asset-peter-schiff-says">&#8220;non-dollar asset&#8221;</a> or a hedge against the dollar, citing its growing correlation with the U.S. economy
Previously, he predicted that the ongoing financial turmoil of 2025 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44754349/bitcoins-final-crash-peter-schiff-predicts-2025-crisis-will-end-what-2008-created">could mark the end of Bitcoin</a>, a cryptocurrency that emerged from the 2008 financial crisis.
Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was exchanging hands at $94,241.84, up 0.85% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>. Over the last month, the leading cryptocurrency gained over 8%.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/45027836/sec-chair-paul-atkins-says-crypto-deserves-clear-regulatory-rules-praises-crypto-mom-hester-peirces-efforts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">SEC Chair Paul Atkins Says Crypto Deserves Clear Regulatory Rules, Praises &#8216;Crypto Mom&#8217; Hester Peirce&#8217;s Efforts </a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Shutterstock/Shutterstock AI<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/apis?utm_source=benzinga.com&amp;utm_campaign=article-bottom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a>

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

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$BTC

Peter Schiff Questions Trump's Bitcoin Ambition Amid Trade Deficit Concerns: 'Resources Are Just Wasted'

A crypto analyst has forecasted a 100% increase for Pepe (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">PEPE</a>), a mid-cap competitor to&nbsp;Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) and Shiba Inu&nbsp;(CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>), reflecting a trend from 2024.
What Happened: The anonymous analyst known as Altcoin Sherpa shared on X that&nbsp;PEPE is poised to rise by approximately 100%. This prediction follows a phase of consolidation and accumulation akin to that observed in 2024.
Altcoin Sherpa stated, &#8220;PEPE&nbsp;also went through a three-month&nbsp;accumulation/consolidation cycle in the late&nbsp;third quarter of 2024 and&nbsp;then had another run in&nbsp;December. It's currently in the&nbsp;same exact region in the&nbsp;same consolidation. I expect PEPE&nbsp;to do a 2x or&nbsp;something from the bottom at&nbsp;a minimum.&#8221;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Interestingly enough, PEPE also went through a 3 month accumulation/consolidation cycle in late Q3 2024 and then had another run in December. It&#39;s currently in the same exact region in the same consolidation. I expect PEPE to do a 2x or something from the bottom at a minimum <a href="https://t.co/ahgZcDWeqZ">pic.twitter.com/ahgZcDWeqZ</a>
&mdash; Altcoin Sherpa (@AltcoinSherpa) <a href="https://twitter.com/AltcoinSherpa/status/1915729919675650138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
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At the time of writing, PEPE was trading at $0.00000884, marking a rise of about 23% over the past week. The analyst also pointed out that the notion of &#8220;altcoin seasons&#8221; is antiquated, and traders should anticipate periods of growth followed by downturns.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43076996/forget-dogecoin-and-shiba-inu-this-altcoin-expected-to-skyrocket-by-116-before-end-of-this-cycle">Forget Dogecoin And Shiba Inu &#8211; This Altcoin Expected To Skyrocket By 116% Before End Of This Cycle</a>
Altcoin Sherpa further implied that Bitcoin maintaining&nbsp;above a key psychological support&nbsp;level signals bullish prospects for altcoins. He counseled traders not to panic during initial dips and to view them as buying opportunities.
Why It Matters: The prediction by Altcoin Sherpa highlights the potential volatility and high returns associated with investing in altcoins like PEPE. His comparison of the current market conditions to those of 2024 suggests that history might repeat itself, leading to significant gains for investors. 
However, the analyst&#8217;s caution about the outdated concept of &#8220;altcoin seasons&#8221; and the need for traders to anticipate periods of prosperity and downturns underscores the inherent risks involved in cryptocurrency trading. 
His advice to consider initial dips as buying opportunities could be a valuable strategy for traders looking to maximize their returns in the volatile crypto market.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39125451/crypto-trader-says-these-two-meme-coins-are-set-to-spike-and-neither-of-them-are-dogecoin-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crypto Trader Says These Two Meme Coins Are Set To Spike — And Neither Of Them Are Dogecoin Or Shiba Inu</a>
Image: Shutterstock/Akif CUBUK

$DOGE

$PEPE

$SHIB

Forget Dogecoin And Shiba Inu — Crypto Analyst Sees This Coin Surging 100%

As U.S. birth rates continue to decline, the Trump administration is exploring a bold new idea: a $5,000 "baby bonus" for American mothers after they give birth. But will this financial incentive be enough to reverse long-standing demographic trends — or is it more about headlines than impact?
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Is the $5,000 Baby Bonus?</h2>
The proposal is part of a broader set of ideas under consideration by President Donald Trump's team to encourage Americans to have more children. The idea would grant a $5,000 cash bonus to mothers following the birth of a child.
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Trump, when asked about the concept, responded, "Sounds like a good idea to me," and White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the president is focused on policies that "uplift American families," according to <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trump-administration-5000-baby-bonus-incentivize-public-children/story?id=121094707">ABC News</a>. The administration has also promoted access to fertility treatments like IVF, with Trump referring to himself on the campaign trail as the "King of IVF."
Vice President JD Vance has voiced support for family-friendly policies as well, pushing to expand the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44124166/affordable-childcare-act-could-give-parents-up-to-12k-but-can-it-pass-a-divided-congress">child tax credit</a> and publicly calling for a "culture that celebrates life."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why the Government Is Pushing for More Babies</h2>
America's birthrate has been steadily falling for years. According to <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/shaharziv/2025/04/24/trump-mulls-5000-baby-bonus-would-it-offset-cost-of-raising-a-child/">Forbes</a>, the U.S. total fertility rate in 2023 was 1.62 births per woman — well below the replacement rate of 2.1.
Low birth rates raise long-term concerns about economic growth, labor shortages, and the sustainability of programs like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44901238/even-missing-one-monthly-benefit-would-put-me-on-step-to-homelessness-americans-react-to-social-securitys-new-anti-fraud-rules">Social Security</a>. Conservative lawmakers and pro-natalist advocates like Simone Collins have urged the administration to adopt policies that encourage larger families, including tax benefits and even symbolic awards like a proposed "National Medal of Motherhood." Collins told ABC News that the White House was receptive to her proposals and is reviewing them.&nbsp;
Another proposal shared with the administration was to increase education around women's&nbsp;
menstrual cycles so they can better understand how to conceive.&nbsp;
Trending: It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $250 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can $5,000 Really Change Family Planning?</h2>
Critics question whether a single payment of $5,000 would meaningfully influence decisions around starting a family. Raising a child in the U.S. is expensive — <a href="https://www.brookings.edu/articles/its-getting-more-expensive-to-raise-children-and-government-isnt-doing-much-to-help/">Brookings</a> reports that the cost for a middle-income couple to raise one child to age 17 is around $310,000. By that math, a $5,000 bonus would cover less than 2% of the total.
In a LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/allison-whalen-7824168_the-white-house-is-floating-a-5k-baby-bonus-activity-7320789804978241536-rjZk/?utm_source=share&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop&amp;rcm=ACoAAACc6qUBW0u3p5Chi9h0sFOitn0jy3pidbs">post</a>, Parentaly CEO Allison Whalen called the bonus "just… a pacifier," arguing that working families need more robust and ongoing support, such as paid parental leave, affordable childcare, and career re-entry programs.
Advocacy group MomsRising also criticized the plan. CEO Kristin Rowe-Finkbeiner told ABC News that the proposals being considered are "coercive" and fail to address the real barriers families face, such as eldercare, maternal healthcare access, and workplace protections for caregivers.
See Also: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">invest pre-IPO from $0.60 per share now</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Could the Bonus Work Better as an Investment?</h2>
Some experts suggest that while $5,000 may not be enough to influence a birth decision today, it could offer long-term value if invested. Forbes states that placing the bonus into a child's investment account could potentially grow to $20,000 by age 18 — or even $740,000 by retirement age, assuming an 8% annual return.
This investment-based approach reframes the baby bonus from a short-term stimulus into a tool for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44440238/can-you-guess-how-much-you-need-to-build-generational-wealth-some-say-its-less-than-what-it-takes-to-feel-rich">generational wealth-building</a>. But that would require the financial stability to set the funds aside, which not all families have.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A First Step — or Just a Talking Point?</h2>
The Trump administration has yet to make a final decision on the $5,000 baby bonus. Whether the proposal moves forward or fades into political rhetoric, one thing is clear: America's birth rate issue is complex. And while cash incentives might generate headlines, addressing the root causes behind declining family sizes — like economic insecurity and lack of support — may take more than a one-time check.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gbr-savings-by-age">If You're Age 35, 50, or 60: Here&#8217;s How Much You Should Have Saved Vs. Invested By Now</a></li>
<li>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.26/share!</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

$5,000 Baby Bonus: Trump's Answer To Falling Birth Rates Or A Political Gimmick?

These eight mid-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Ascentage Pharma Group Internat (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPG#NASDAQ">AAPG</a>) stock jumped 38.35%. The company plans to present data from two clinical studies at the 2025 ASCO Annual Meeting, including an oral presentation for its key <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44968495" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">assets Lisaftoclax and Alrizomadlin</a>.</li>
<li>Ardagh Metal Packaging (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMBP#NYSE">AMBP</a>) shares escalated 38.66% after the company reported a year-over-year increase in first-quarter adjusted EPS results and better-than-expected revenue results. Additionally, the company raised its FY25 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44975010" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adjusted EBITDA guidance</a>.</li>
<li>Bitdeer Technologies Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BTDR#NASDAQ">BTDR</a>) stock gained 38.19% last week. Shares of crypto-related companies have gained amid a rise in the price of Bitcoin. The cryptocurrency continues to face volatility but has decoupled from risk assets this week and has outperformed Gold.</li>
<li>Pegasystems Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PEGA#NASDAQ">PEGA</a>) shares upped 32.85% after reporting better-than-expected <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44936292" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first-quarter financial results</a>. Several analysts raised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/pega/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast for the stock.</a></li>
<li>Impinj, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PI#NASDAQ">PI</a>) shares increased 31.58% after the company reported better-than-expected financial results and issued <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44964703" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">second-quarter guidance above estimates</a>. Several analysts revised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/pi/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast for the stock.</a></li>
<li>Lufax Holding Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LU#NYSE">LU</a>) stock grew 30.72%, probably amid overall market strength due to March&#8217;s strong durable goods orders economic data and President Trump&#8217;s announcement that he met with China earlier today.</li>
<li>Tempus AI Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>) shares rocketed 30.09% after the company announced a multi-year collaboration with AstraZeneca PLC <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44960263" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) and Pathos AI</a>.</li>
<li>Kymera Therapeutics (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KYMR#NASDAQ">KYMR</a>) stock was up 28.00%. The company initiated dosing in the BroADen phase 1B clinical trial evaluating KT-621, a potent degrader of STAT6, in patients <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44918188" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis</a>.</li>
</ol>
Photo by Piotr Swat via Shutterstock

Equities

Mid Cap

Movers

AAPG

AMBP

BTDR

KYMR

PEGA

Bitdeer Tech And Tempus AI Are Among Top 18 Mid-Cap Gainers Last Week (Apr 21-Apr 25): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

President Donald Trump&#8216;s ongoing tariff policy changes have resulted in persistent market volatility and uncertainty. This has increased investors' appetite for stable, defensive stocks paying steady dividends. Dividend stocks have <a href="https://www.hartfordfunds.com/dam/en/docs/pub/whitepapers/WP106.pdf">contributed</a> significantly to overall market returns during the 1940s, 1960s, and 1970s, when average annual total returns were lower.
About seven months ago, a dividend investor <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/dividends/comments/1fldncg/finally_hit_300k_goal/">shared</a> his monthly dividend income details and portfolio on r/Dividends — a Reddit discussion board with over 700,000 followers. The income report shared by the investor showed his monthly dividend income was $23,800, with a projected annual dividend income of just over $300,000.
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<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
</ul>
The investor, in his mid-50s, said he had about 150 holdings in his portfolio worth roughly $4.4 million. Asked how he was able to accumulate wealth to build such a large portfolio, he said it took him years to reach this milestone:
"Started at $3.50 per hour. Went back to school in my early 30s as did my wife. Definitely no inheritance and student loans to boot. Just 35 years of investing."
The investor said over $2 million of his wealth came from "decades of trading" biotech company Immunomedics, which was <a href="https://www.gilead.com/news/news-details/2020/gilead-sciences-to-acquire-immunomedics">bought</a> by Gilead Sciences (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GILD#NASDAQ">GILD</a>) in 2020 for $88 per share.&nbsp;
Trending: The secret weapon in billionaire investor portfolios that you almost certainly don't own yet. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">See which asset class has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 (1995-2024) – and with near-zero correlation.</a>
Let's take a look at some of the biggest holdings of the investor.
BlackRock Science and Technolgy Term Trust
BlackRock Science and Technology Term Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BSTZ#NYSE">BSTZ</a>) was the biggest holding of the investor. The closed-end equity fund invests in science and technology companies and also generates income by selling call options on stocks in its portfolio. It has a dividend yield of about 9%.&nbsp;
Nuveen Real Asset Income and Growth Fund
The Nuveen Real Asset Income and Growth Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JRI#NYSE">JRI</a>) invests in companies related to infrastructure projects, facilities, and services, as well as REITs. Among the top holdings of the fund are Enbridge (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENB#NYSE">ENB</a>), Energy Transfer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ET#NYSE">ET</a>), Gaming and Leisure Properties (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLPI#NASDAQ">GLPI</a>), Simon Property (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPG#NYSE">SPG</a>) and Omega Healthcare Investors (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OHI#NYSE">OHI</a>).
DoubleLine Income Solutions Fund
DoubleLine Income Solutions (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DSL#NYSE">DSL</a>) is a closed-end fund focusing on income-generating fixed-income securities. It yields about 12% and pays monthly.
See Also: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">invest pre-IPO from $0.60 per share now</a>.
Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund&nbsp;
The Kayne Anderson Energy Infrastructure Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KYN#NYSE">KYN</a>) invests in midstream, natural gas &amp; LNG infrastructure, and power infrastructure companies. The fund has a dividend yield of over 8%.
Western Asset High Income Opportunity Fund
Another closed-end fund in the portfolio, Western Asset High Income Opportunity Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIO#NYSE">HIO</a>) primarily invests in high-yield corporate debt securities and preferred stocks for income generation and capital appreciation. The fund has a distribution rate of over 10%.&nbsp;
Voya Infrastructure, Industrials and Materials Fund
The Voya Infrastructure, Industrials and Materials Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IDE#NYSE">IDE</a>) invests in companies in the infrastructure, industrials and materials sectors. Cisco (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), Verizon (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VZ#NYSE">VZ</a>), Sherwin-Williams (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>), Uber (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>) and T-Mobile US (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMUS#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>) are among the fund's biggest holdings.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gbr-savings-by-age">If You're Age 35, 50, or 60: Here&#8217;s How Much You Should Have Saved Vs. Invested By Now</a></li>
<li>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.26/share!</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

BSTZ

CSCO

GILD

GLPI

TMUS

UBER

Dividend Investor in Mid-50s Making $23,800 A Month Shares Portfolio, Says He Started with $3.50/hour  —  'Just 35 Years of Investing'

These twelve large-cap stocks were the worst performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Fiserv, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FI#NYSE">FI</a>) stock tumbled 14.92% after the company issued FY25 adjusted EPS guidance with its midpoint below estimates. Analysts changed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45013364" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">their price forecasts</a>.</li>
<li>Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>) shares dipped 12.43% after the company reported worse-than-expected results and lowered its FY25 EPS guidance. Several analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44965915" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lowered their price forecasts</a>.</li>
<li>Erie Indemnity Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ERIE#NASDAQ">ERIE</a>) stock plummeted 11.95% after it reported financial results <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44995337" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and missed its EPS estimate</a>.</li>
<li>T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMUS#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>) shares fell 11.17% last week following the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44995935" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first-quarter financial results</a>.</li>
<li>Watsco, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WSO#NYSE">WSO</a>) shares dipped 9.98% after the company reported first-quarter results and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44945784" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">missed its EPS and sales estimates</a>. Analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/wso/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">revised the price forecast</a>.</li>
<li>Gold Fields (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GFI#NYSE">GFI</a>) shares decreased 9.13%, probably because gold prices dropped after President Trump said he had no intention of firing Fed Chair Powell and indicated that the final tariff rate with China would be &#8220;substantially&#8221; lower than the current 145%.</li>
<li>Aon plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AON#NYSE">AON</a>) stock fell 8.59% after the company reported financial results and missed its adjusted <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45003204" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EPS and revenue estimates</a>.</li>
<li>AngloGold Ashanti PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AU#NYSE">AU</a>) shares fell 8.44%, probably because gold prices dropped after President Trump said he had no intention of firing Fed Chair Powell and indicated that the final tariff rate with China would be &#8220;substantially&#8221; lower than the current 145%.</li>
<li>Ryan Specialty Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RYAN#NYSE">RYAN</a>) stock was down 8.17%. The company inked a deal to acquire certain assets of USQRisk <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44910617" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Holdings for an undisclosed amount</a>.</li>
<li>Tyler Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TYL#NYSE">TYL</a>) stock fell 7.99% last week after the company reported first-quarter results. Several analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TYL/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lowered their price forecasts</a>.</li>
<li>Kimberly-Clark Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KMB#NYSE">KMB</a>) stock declined 7.84% after it reported weaker-than-expected first-quarter sales, and several <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44959233" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysts slashed their price forecast</a>.</li>
<li>UnitedHealth Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) shares decreased 7.81%. The company reported disappointing first-quarter results last week, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44913470" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysts revised the price forecast</a>.</li>
</ol>
Photo by Ken Wolter via Shutterstock

Earnings

Large Cap

ERIE

RYAN

UnitedHealth, T-Mobile And Fiserv Are Among Top 12 Large-Cap Losers Last Week (Apr 21-Apr 25): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

Over the weekend, crypto markets rallied ahead of the futures open, continuing a trend of growing investor interest in alternative assets. Bitcoin led the charge, rising 3.70% on the day before giving back some of its gains as U.S. stock markets closed. The world's largest cryptocurrency is currently trading around $86,900 after briefly reaching a high of $88,400.
This surge in Bitcoin coincides with continued weakness in the U.S. Dollar Index, which has been under pressure due to ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China. The DXY recently hit a fresh low of 97.92, further signaling that global investors are growing cautious on the dollar's strength in the current macroeconomic environment.
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<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
</ul>
Key Levels To Watch
As Bitcoin continues to show relative strength compared to traditional markets like the Nasdaq and S&amp;P 500, many analysts are turning their attention to crypto as a potential beneficiary of broader market uncertainty. With a weakening DXY and mixed signals from equity markets, Bitcoin is emerging as a more resilient option for investors looking to hedge against currency depreciation and macro volatility.
Given the market's current volatility, it's important to keep a close eye on key technical levels that could shape the next move. The rejection from the $88,000 region on Monday's rally—an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44867123/bitcoin-surges-past-82k-despite-u-s-risk-off-mood-is-a-breakout-brewing">area highlighted in a previous article</a>—may signal short-term exhaustion. However, this does not yet confirm a return to the broader bearish higher-timeframe trend.
Trending: BlackRock is calling 2025 the year of alternative assets. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">One firm from NYC has quietly built a group of 60,000+ investors who have all joined in on an alt asset class previously exclusive to billionaires like Bezos and Gates.</a>
Instead, Bitcoin's lower timeframes still tell a bullish story. On the four-hour chart, the structure remains intact, with a crucial swing low marked at $83,900. As long as price holds above this level, the bullish market structure remains valid. A clean break and close below that area, however, could open the door for a deeper correction in the short term.
It's also worth noting that Bitcoin's recent strength isn&#8217;t happening in isolation. Other major currencies such as the Euro and British Pound have also seen significant upside as the dollar weakens, reinforcing the narrative that capital is rotating out of the greenback and into alternative assets, including crypto.
As global macro trends continue to evolve, Bitcoin&#8217;s resilience amid a declining dollar and underperforming equities will be a key story to follow. Whether this strength leads to a new all-time high remains to be seen, but the conditions for a potential breakout are clearly forming.
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<li>Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">invest pre-IPO from $0.60 per share now</a>.</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gbr-savings-by-age">If You're Age 35, 50, or 60: Here&#8217;s How Much You Should Have Saved Vs. Invested By Now</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Bitcoin Extends Its Lead Over Traditional Markets As The U.S. Dollar Tumbles, Highlighting Strength In Crypto Amid Shifting Global Macro Trends

The past week has been a rollercoaster ride for the autonomous driving and electric vehicle (EV) sectors. From President Trump&#8217;s change of heart on autonomous vehicles to Jeff Bezos-backed EV startups making waves, the industry has seen significant developments. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories of the week.
Trump&#8217;s Change of Heart on Autonomous Vehicles
The autonomous driving sector has seen a surge in optimism following the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration&#8217;s updated regulations that could simplify testing and regulation. This comes as a surprise given President Donald Trump&#8217;s previous opposition to autonomous vehicles. The President once stated he would keep autonomous vehicles &#8220;from operating on American roads&#8221;.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45022642/trump-change-of-heart-or-musk-influence-president-once-said-would-keep-autonomous-vehicles-from-operating-on-american-roads">Read the full article here.</a>
Bezos vs. Tesla vs. Rivian
Both Rivian Automotive (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) and Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) are set to release more affordable EVs, a move that could help them fend off competition from a new EV startup backed by Amazon.com founder Jeff Bezos. Michigan-based startup Slate Auto has been showcasing concept versions of its electric pickup truck and recently held an event to share more details about the company&#8217;s future.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/04/45014243/bezos-vs-tesla-vs-rivian-stock-company-backed-by-amazon-founder-can-turn-20k-ev-truck-into-suv">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44972893/trump-says-us-doesnt-need-canadian-cars-hints-tariffs-could-rise-we-dont-want-your-cars-wi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Says US Doesn&#8217;t Need Canadian Cars — Hints Tariffs Could Rise: &#8216;We Don&#8217;t Want Your Cars, With All Due Respect&#8217;</a>
Pony.ai and Tencent&#8217;s Robotaxi Partnership
Chinese autonomous driving company Pony AI Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PONY#NASDAQ">PONY</a>) announced plans to develop autonomous driving technology in partnership with Tencent Holding (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCEHY#OTC">TCEHY</a>). The deal will include cooperation in cloud services, map data, information security, and intelligent cockpit ecosystems.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/04/45013465/pony-ai-and-tencent-partner-on-l4-robotaxis-expand-chinas-self-driving-future">Read the full article here.</a>
Bezos-Backed Tesla Rival Unveils $20,000 Modular EV Pickup Truck
Slate Auto, an EV manufacturer backed by Amazon.com Inc. founder Jeff Bezos, unveiled its modular EV pickup truck. The two-seater EV pickup truck features a retro design that is reminiscent of models from manufacturers like Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>).
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/45006513/jeff-bezos-backed-tesla-rival-unveils-20000-modular-ev-pickup-truck-with-customization-at-the-forefront">Read the full article here.</a>
Tesla Rolls Out Free FSD Transfers Amid Poor Sales
Tesla has rolled out a range of promotions for customers in the U.S. on all of its models in an attempt to boost declining sales figures. The promotions include FSD transfers on all new Model 3, Model Y, Model S, Model X, and the Cybertruck orders free of charge.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/45004433/tesla-rolls-out-free-fsd-transfers-on-all-us-models-including-cybertruck-amid-poor-sales">Read the full article here.</a>
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<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/tech/25/04/45006513/jeff-bezos-backed-tesla-rival-unveils-20000-modular-ev-pickup-truck-with-customization-at-the-forefront" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Jeff Bezos-Backed Tesla Rival Unveils $20,000 Modular EV Pickup Truck With Customization At The Forefront</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Tech

PONY

RIVN

TCEHY

TSLA

Trump's Autonomous Vehicles Stance, Bezos Vs. Tesla, And More: This Week In Mobility

Walmart (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) engages in the operation of retail and wholesale stores and e-commerce websites worldwide.
It will report its Q1 2026 earnings on May 15. Wall Street analysts expect the company to post EPS of $0.59, down from $0.60 in the prior-year period. According to data from Benzinga Pro, quarterly revenue is expected to be $164.67 billion, up from $161.51 billion a year earlier.
The 52-week range of Walmart stock price was $58.56 to $105.30.
Walmart's dividend yield is 0.99%. It paid $0.94 per share in dividends during the last 12 months.
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<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>
<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Latest On Walmart</h2>
On Feb. 20, the company announced its Q4 2025 earnings, posting revenues of $180.55 billion, beating the analyst consensus estimate of $180.01 billion, as reported by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/02/43846469/walmart-q4-earnings-shine-but-soft-fy26-outlook-disappoints-street">Benzinga</a>. The adjusted EPS was $0.66, above the consensus estimate of $0.64.
Walmart sees Q1 2026 sales growth in the range of 3% to 4%, and adjusted EPS of $0.57 to $0.58, compared to the consensus estimate of $0.64.
Full-year sales growth is expected to be 3% to 4%, and adjusted EPS is seen in the range of $2.50 to $2.60, below the $2.76 estimate.
Check out this <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/25/04/44759117/28-analysts-assess-walmart-what-you-need-to-know">article by Benzinga</a> for 28 analysts' insights on Walmart.
Trending: BlackRock is calling 2025 the year of alternative assets. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">One firm from NYC has quietly built a group of 60,000+ investors who have all joined in on an alt asset class previously exclusive to billionaires like Bezos and Gates.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How Can You Earn $100 Per Month As A Walmart Investor?</h2>
If you want to make $100 per month — $1,200 annually — from Walmart dividends, your investment value needs to be approximately $121,212, which is around 1,278 shares at $94.85 each.&nbsp;
Understanding the dividend yield calculations: When making an estimate, you need two key variables — the desired annual income ($1,200) and the dividend yield (0.99% in this case). So, $1,200 / 0.0099 = $121,212 to generate an income of $100 per month.
You can calculate the dividend yield by dividing the annual dividend payments by the current price of the stock.
The dividend yield can change over time. This is the outcome of fluctuating stock prices and dividend payments on a rolling basis.
See Also: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">invest pre-IPO from $0.60 per share now</a>.
For instance, assume a stock that pays $2 as an annual dividend is priced at $50. Its dividend yield would be $2/$50 = 4%. If the stock price rises to $60, the dividend yield drops to 3.33% ($2/$60). A drop in stock price to $40 will have an inverse effect and increase the dividend yield to 5% ($2/$40).
In summary, income-focused investors may find Walmart stock an attractive option for making a steady income of $100 per month by owning 1,278 shares of stock. There may be more upside to come as investors benefit from the company's consistent dividend hikes. Walmart has raised its dividend consecutively for the last 52 years.&nbsp;
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How To Put $100 In Your Retirement Fund Each Month With Walmart Stock

These eleven large-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Mobileye Global Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MBLY#NASDAQ">MBLY</a>) shares jumped 27.23% after the company reported better-than-expected first-quarter sales results and issued second-quarter <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44978234" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sales guidance above estimates</a>. Analysts revised the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/mbly/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Reddit, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDDT#NYSE">RDDT</a>) shares rose 22.82%.</li>
<li>ServiceNow, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOW#NYSE">NOW</a>) stock rocketed 22.42% after the company reported better-than-expected financial results and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44986106" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysts boosted the price forecast</a>.</li>
<li>Microchip Technology Incorporated (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCHP#NASDAQ">MCHP</a>) shares were up 21.60%, probably amid overall market strength due to March&#8217;s strong durable goods orders economic data and President Trump&#8217;s announcement that he met with China.</li>
<li>Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) stock gained 20.26% last week amid recent defense partnerships.</li>
<li>Robinhood Markets, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HOOD#NASDAQ">HOOD</a>) shares increased 20.08% as broader financial sector stocks gained amid overall market strength.</li>
<li>Coinbase Global, Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) stock was up 19.77% after the company expanded its partnership with PayPal Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NASDAQ">PYPL</a>). The partnership aims to increase the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44991653" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">adoption and utility</a> of PayPal&#8217;s U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin (CRYPTO: PYUSD).</li>
<li>Vertiv Holdings, LLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRT#NYSE">VRT</a>) stock upped 18.77% after the company reported better-than-expected financial results and raised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44953772" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">its full-year sales guidance</a>.</li>
<li>Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) stock gained 18.06% last week. The company reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44937440" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">underwhelming Q1 results</a>, but the hype about a low-cost EV and Robotaxi had a positive impact.</li>
<li>Entegris, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENTG#NASDAQ">ENTG</a>) stock gained 17.46% last week as shares of semiconductor companies gained amid overall market strength.</li>
<li>SoFi Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOFI#NASDAQ">SOFI</a>) shares rose 16.94%.</li>
</ol>
Image Via Shutterstock

COIN

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MBLY

MCHP

PLTR

PYPL

RDDT

SOFI

Tesla, Palantir And Coinbase Are Among Top 11 Large-Cap Gainers Last Week (Apr 21-Apr 25): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

As the week comes to a close, we look back at a week filled with significant developments in the world of artificial intelligence (AI). From President Trump&#8217;s push for AI education to Jim Cramer&#8217;s bullish stance on AI stocks, the week was abuzz with AI-related news. Let&#8217;s delve into the top stories.
Trump Advocates for AI Education in Schools
President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;signed a series of executive orders on April 23, aimed at transforming U.S. education policy across K-12 and higher education. The orders include promoting AI education in schools, reformulating college accreditation standards, and implementing new transparency rules for foreign funding in universities. The orders also reiterated support for Historically Black colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and promoted workforce development initiatives.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/04/45005327/trump-pushes-ai-education-in-schools-rolling-back-obama-era-policies-and-cracking-down-on-foreign-funds-ai-seems-to-be-where-its-at">Read the full article here.</a>
Jim Cramer Remains Bullish on AI Stocks
Despite growing skepticism on Wall Street, CNBC's&nbsp;Jim Cramer&nbsp;remains optimistic about the future of AI infrastructure and data center stocks. Cramer acknowledged the turbulence in AI stocks, particularly following revelations from DeepSeek, a Chinese startup. He also expressed concerns about Donald Trump&#8217;s tariff policies potentially hurting the broader economy.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/45001882/jim-cramer-stays-bullish-on-data-centers-says-if-trump-tariffs-eases-these-ai-stocks-will-fly-again-despite-wall-street-doubts">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/45026632/bill-gates-says-luckily-his-daughter-phoebe-gates-never-asked-him-to-back-her-business" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates Says &#8216;Luckily&#8217; His Daughter Phoebe Gates Never Asked Him To Back Her Business</a>
Amazon and Nvidia Dismiss AI Data Center Pullback Fears
Despite recession fears and market speculation, tech giants&nbsp;Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>)&nbsp;and&nbsp;Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)&nbsp;insist that the demand for AI data centers remains robust. Executives from both companies dismissed concerns about a potential slowdown in the construction of AI data centers at a conference in Oklahoma City.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45001873/amazon-and-nvidia-dismiss-fears-of-ai-data-center-pullback-we-continue-to-see-very-strong-demand">Read the full article here.</a>
OpenAI&#8217;s Restructuring Raises Concerns Among AI Experts
A coalition of over 30 leading AI researchers and ethicists has issued an urgent warning about OpenAI‘s proposed corporate restructuring. They expressed grave concerns that the changes could undermine public oversight and the company's original mission. The group published an open letter urging California and Delaware Attorney Generals to intervene in OpenAI's plan.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/04/44975360/geoffrey-hinton-ex-openai-insiders-and-top-ai-experts-sound-alarm-on-openais-restructuring-warn-it-could-strip-public-of-oversight-betray-agi-mission">Read the full article here.</a>
Satya Nadella Introduces Microsoft 365 Copilot&#8217;s AI Glow-Up
On Wednesday,&nbsp;Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)&nbsp;introduced a newly redesigned version of its Microsoft 365 Copilot app. The development was shared by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, who referred to it as the &#8216;scaffolding for his workday&#8217;.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44973292/satya-nadella-calls-it-scaffolding-for-my-workday-introduces-microsoft-365-copilots-ai-glow-up-to-reshape-how-we-work">Read the full article here.</a>
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<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44979720/teslas-robotaxi-launch-in-june-will-likely-be-a-non-event-says-gary-black-this-isnt-really-a-test-market-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla&#8217;s Robotaxi Launch In June Will Likely Be A &#8216;Non-Event,&#8217; Says Gary Black: &#8216;This Isn&#8217;t Really A Test Market. It&#8217;s An Experiment&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

AMZN

MSFT

NVDA

Trump's AI Education Push, Cramer's AI Stock Optimism, And More: This Week In Artificial Intelligence

While top executives like Mark Zuckerberg and Jamie Dimon sold off hundreds of millions in stock before markets tanked, Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy says he took the hit right along with everyone else.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Executives Cashed Out Before Market Downturn</h2>
According to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-04-20/zuckerberg-dimon-are-among-top-sellers-ahead-of-tariff-stock-rout?embedded-checkout=true">Bloomberg</a>, insiders, including Meta (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) CEO Zuckerberg, Oracle (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) CEO Safra Catz, and JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) CEO Jamie Dimon, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44891097/zuckerberg-dimon-sold-shares-ahead-of-stock-rout-triggered-by-trump-tariff-talk">cashed out</a> a combined billions of dollars worth of shares in the first quarter of 2025.&nbsp;
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Zuckerberg sold 1.1 million Meta shares for $733 million, all before the tech giant's stock dropped more than 30%. Catz unloaded $705 million in Oracle stock before a similar decline, and Dimon sold more than $234 million in JPMorgan stock ahead of the crash. All of these sales were made before President Donald Trump's tariff announcements, which triggered a sharp market downturn.
The downturn has had ripple effects throughout the financial and tech sectors. Elon Musk, the world's richest person, has seen his net worth fall by $129 billion so far this year. Some insiders are now taking advantage of lower share prices to buy back stock, but many investors and everyday traders weren't so lucky.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Portnoy: ‘I Got Smoked Like Everybody Else'</h2>
<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">In other news. Dave Portnoy did NOT unload any stock. Got smoked like everybody else <a href="https://t.co/Zzrmn5I6Wt">https://t.co/Zzrmn5I6Wt</a>
&mdash; Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) <a href="https://twitter.com/stoolpresidente/status/1914429319499165931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Portnoy, on the other hand, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44706019/barstool-founder-dave-portnoy-takes-20-million-hit-amid-trump-tariff-induced-market-crash">revealed earlier this month</a> that he lost $20 million in the crash, which he said represents about 15% of his net worth. Initially, he estimated a $7 million loss following the plunge, but later updated the figure on his livestream.
However, a couple of days later, he <a href="https://x.com/stoolpresidente/status/1910037503756923291">posted</a> on X in all caps, &#8220;I'm up 8.2 million today! Where are all the people in my mentions now!&#8221;
On Easter Monday, Portnoy responded to a social media <a href="https://x.com/unusual_whales/status/1914428176840728646?t=rcfiZYuZ7nDZrgLFAPNYCA&amp;s=19">post</a> by Unusual Whales highlighting insider selling by top executives. "In other news. Dave Portnoy did NOT unload any stock," he tweeted. "Got smoked like everybody else."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Despite the financial blow, Portnoy remains a vocal supporter of Trump. On his <a href="https://x.com/stoolpresidente/status/1907881579978043894">livestream</a>, he called Trump "a smart guy" and said he believes Trump is playing a high-stakes game with the tariffs. "I&#8217;m going to roll with him and see how it plays out," Portnoy added.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Insider Selling Down, But Timing Raised Eyebrows</h2>
Overall, insider selling was down compared with the same time last year, per Bloomberg. Insiders sold $15.5 billion worth of stock in Q1 2025, compared with $28.1 billion in Q1 2024. Still, a small group of executives made particularly well-timed moves. Zuckerberg, Catz, and Dimon were among just 10 sellers who collectively unloaded more than $3.8 billion in stock before the tariffs were announced.
Apparently, Portnoy wasn't one of them. He's riding out the storm just like everyone else.
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ORCL

In Response To Zuckerberg And Dimon Stock Sell-Offs, Dave Portnoy Says He Didn't Unload Anything—'Got Smoked Like Everybody Else'

The past week was a roller coaster ride for the cryptocurrency market. Major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), XRP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>), and Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) experienced significant surges, hinting at a potential bullish momentum. Meanwhile, Bitcoin mining costs have seen a sharp increase, causing concern among miners. Amidst these developments, calls for clear regulatory rules for cryptocurrencies have been made by the SEC Chair, Paul Atkins. Here&#8217;s a detailed look at these stories.
Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin Experience Bullish Momentum
Cryptocurrency markets traded higher over the weekend, with whales continuing their accumulation spree. This activity could potentially fuel the bullish momentum in the market.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/45020090/bitcoin-ethereum-xrp-dogecoin-surging-but-choppy-weekend-could-precede-the-next-push">Read the full article here.</a>
Bitcoin Climbs 12% On The Week
Bitcoin saw a 12% increase over the week, following a familiar crypto cycle pattern of improving sentiment and shifting macro signals. Crypto analyst Alex Wacy noted the cyclical nature of the market, which often takes just a few bullish headlines and a green daily candle to reignite momentum.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/45017648/bitcoin-climbs-12-on-the-week-as-traders-eye-run-to-100000">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44970313/missed-fortune-trump-trader-loses-45-million-profit-opportunity-before-dinner-announcement" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trader Dumps TRUMP Tokens Before Presidential Dinner Revelation: Meal Cost Early Seller $4.5 Million</a>
Bitcoin Mining Costs Jump To $137,000 Per Coin
Bitcoin mining expenses rose sharply in the final quarter of 2024, with CoinShares reporting that the total average cost to produce one Bitcoin, including non-cash items, climbed to $137,018. This figure includes depreciation and stock-based compensation, offering a more comprehensive look at the financial stress facing miners despite the strength in Bitcoin&#8217;s market price.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/45017261/bitcoin-mining-costs-jump-to-137000-per-coin-when-accounting-for-non-cash-expenses-coinshares">Read the full article here.</a>
SEC Chair Calls for Clear Crypto Regulations
New SEC Chair Atkins indicated a friendlier approach toward cryptocurrency during his tenure, highlighting the need for a clear regulatory policy to help the industry thrive in the U.S. Atkins emphasized the significance of blockchain technology in modernizing the financial system, predicting it to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, increase transparency, and mitigate risks.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/45027836/sec-chair-paul-atkins-says-crypto-deserves-clear-regulatory-rules-praises-crypto-mom-hester-peirces-efforts">Read the full article here.</a>
Senator Buys More Bitcoin ETF Shares
Senator David McCormick (R-PA) has been actively buying shares of the Bitwise Bitcoin ETF BITB and may have taken advantage of a dip in Bitcoin's price during March before the recent rally back to the $95,000 level. McCormick&#8217;s total bet on Bitcoin is now in the $375,000 to the $850,000 range since February.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/45018551/senator-on-digital-assets-committee-buys-more-bitcoin-etf-shares-2025-is-the-year-for-digital-assets">Read the full article here.</a>
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

$ETH

$XRP

Cryptocurrencies Surge, Bitcoin Mining Costs Soar, SEC Chair Calls For Clear Crypto Regulations: This Week In Crypto

The past week was a rollercoaster for&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>). The tech giant dodged a bullet with the new reciprocal tariffs, only to face potential supply chain disruptions. Plans to shift iPhone production from China to India emerged, while rising costs and AI delays led to a price target cut. The week ended with the EU slapping Apple with a hefty fine, triggering a political backlash in Washington. Here&#8217;s a recap of the week&#8217;s major events.
Apple Dodges Tariffs, But Supply Chain Woes Loom
Apple managed to sidestep steep tariffs on Chinese-made electronics, thanks to an exemption granted by former President Donald Trump. However, leading analyst Ming-Chi Kuo warns that Apple&#8217;s supply chain could still face significant disruptions in the coming months.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44781528/apples-preemptive-iphone-stockpile-could-disrupt-supply-chain-amid-looming-semiconductor-tariffs-warns-top-analyst-says-this-may-be-cupertinos-best-option-beyond-white-house-talks">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple&#8217;s India Shift Amid Tariff and Geopolitical Pressures
Reports suggest that Apple plans to import most iPhones sold in the U.S. from India by the end of 2026. This move would require Apple to double its annual iPhone output in India to over 80 million units.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45014074/apple-plans-iphone-shift-from-china-to-india-amid-tariff-pressures-geopolitical-risks">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/45026632/bill-gates-says-luckily-his-daughter-phoebe-gates-never-asked-him-to-back-her-business" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates Says &#8216;Luckily&#8217; His Daughter Phoebe Gates Never Asked Him To Back Her Business</a>
Bank of America Cuts Apple&#8217;s Price Target Over AI Delays, Rising Costs
Bank of America has cut its price target for Apple due to fears of looming tariffs and rising supply chain costs, despite near-term sales being fueled by early iPhone buyers.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44985682/apples-ai-delays-rising-cost-pressures-trigger-price-target-cut-from-bank-of-america">Read the full article here.</a>
Analysts Lower AAPL Stock Price Target Amid Anticipated Tariffs, Supply Chain Concerns
UBS analyst David Vogt has lowered the price target for Apple shares from $236 to $210 in anticipation of widespread tariffs, despite a year-over-year rise in iPhone revenue for the March quarter.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44973883/analysts-slash-aapl-stock-price-target-amid-anticipated-tariffs-supply-chain-concerns-a-lose-lose-choice">Read the full article here.</a>
EU&#8217;s Hefty Fine on Apple Sparks Backlash in Washington
The European Union&#8217;s enforcement of its Digital Markets Act led to a fine of approximately $540 million on Apple, triggering political backlash in the U.S. and potentially igniting new U.S.-EU trade tensions.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/44972575/trumps-team-blasts-eus-nearly-800-million-fine-on-apple-and-meta-as-extortion-could-us-retaliate-against-the-digital-markets-act">Read the full article here.</a>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

AAPL

Apple's Tariff Dodging, Production Shifts, And EU Fines: This Week In Appleverse

The past week has been a rollercoaster ride for the markets, with significant shifts and potential economic shocks looming on the horizon. From the unique advantage of the US in navigating economic shifts due to its dollar-denominated debt, to the escalating tariff war initiated by President Donald Trump, the economic landscape is rife with uncertainty. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories that shaped the week.
Dollar-Denominated Debt: A Privilege for US Policymakers
Amidst the ongoing market shifts, the U.S.&#8217;s unique position as the issuer of the world&#8217;s reserve currency provides it with a significant advantage. According to Bob Elliot, co-founder, CEO, and CIO of Unlimited and former investment committee member of Bridgewater Associates, the US can prioritize domestic economic conditions due to its debt being denominated in US dollars.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44971850/us-policymakers-are-privileged-says-expert-as-its-debt-in-usd-can-help-avoid-balance-of-payment-crisis">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s Trade War: Deals, Higher Taxes, and Potential Recession Avoidance
JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) predicts that the ongoing tariff war could lead to agreements between the U.S. and its trade partners, along with a significant rise in tax rates. The global investment strategy team at JPMorgan Wealth Management has projected that the effective tax rate could surge to between 10% and 20%.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44891073/donald-trumps-trade-war-jpmorgan-predicts-deals-higher-taxes-and-potential-recession-avoidance">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/04/44994275/gold-now-worth-100x-more-than-silver-analysts-say-its-time-to-buy-the-underdog" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gold Now Worth 100x More Than Silver: Analysts Say It&#8217;s Time To Buy The Underdog</a>
Trump&#8217;s Approval Rating: A Mixed Bag
Despite economic uncertainty, President Donald Trump&#8217;s approval rating stands at 45% in a new Gallup poll. However, an Economist/YouGov poll shows a 16 point drop since he took office in January.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44890428/trumps-gallup-approval-stands-at-45-topping-same-point-in-first-presidency-but-hes-down-16-in-economist-survey">Read the full article here.</a>
Recession on the Horizon?
As the global trade war escalates due to unprecedented U.S. tariffs, Peter Mallouk, the CEO of Creative Planning, has mapped out three possible economic scenarios, with the worst-case outcome forecasting a deep recession and a potential stock market plunge of up to 60%.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44644834/recession-imminent-analyst-flags-60-market-crash-risk-under-worst-tariff-scenario">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s Tariffs: A Potential $30 Trillion Blow
Former Secretary of the Treasury Lawrence H. Summers warns that the tariffs imposed by President Trump could cost the economy $30 trillion, describing them as the "most expensive and masochistic" move by the U.S.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44622754/tariffs-are-most-expensive-and-masochistic-could-cost-30-trillion-to-the-economy-erasing-300k-per-family-explains-former-treasury-secretary-larry-summers">Read the full article here.</a>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Economics

US Dollar Dominance, Trump's Trade War, And The Threat Of Recession: This Week In Economy

The week brought a flurry of news, with major developments in the political and economic spheres. From President Donald Trump&#8217;s second term being described as &#8216;chaotic&#8217; and &#8216;scary&#8217; by voters to the closure of a key climate diplomacy office, the news cycle was anything but dull. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories:
Trump&#8217;s Second Term: Chaos and Fear?
A recent poll reveals that a significant number of voters describe President Donald Trump&#8217;s second term as &#8220;chaotic&#8221; and &#8220;scary.&#8221; The New York Times/Siena College poll shows that 66% of registered voters label Trump&#8217;s second term as &#8220;chaotic,&#8221; while 59% call it &#8220;scary.&#8221; The poll also indicates a considerable disapproval rate for Trump&#8217;s handling of major issues.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/45027947/trumps-second-term-viewed-as-chaotic-and-scary-by-majority-of-voters">Read the full article here.</a>
Rubio Shuts Down Climate Office
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has decided to dismantle the Office of Global Change, a move that has alarmed global climate advocates. The unexpected announcement has left employees reeling, with no clear timeline for when the closure would be finalized.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/45027993/rubio-shutters-climate-office-alarming-global-climate-advocates">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/25/04/45027755/yale-classmates-urge-bessent-to-reconsider-trump-white-house-role-treasury-secretary-calls-it-an-honor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Yale Classmates Urge Bessent To Reconsider Trump White House Role — Treasury Secretary Calls It an &#8216;Honor&#8217;</a>
Trump&#8217;s Approval Drops Amid Economic Concerns
A new poll conducted by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research shows that President Trump&#8217;s approval rating is taking a hit as Americans express concern about the economy&#8217;s trajectory amid rising consumer costs and potential recession risks.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/45027881/trumps-approval-plummets-as-tariffs-bite-americans-expect-skyrocketing-prices-and-shrinking-wallets">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump Open to Millionaires Tax?
In a recent interview, President Trump expressed openness to a tax increase on millionaires, despite previous opposition. He noted that his main concern is the potential impact on his electoral prospects.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45026565/trump-signals-possible-support-for-millionaires-tax-amid-election-concerns-recalls-george-bushs-promise-he-said-read-my-lips-and-lost-an-election">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s Change of Heart on Autonomous Vehicles
There is renewed optimism for the autonomous driving sector, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration updating regulations that could make testing and regulation easier. This comes after President Trump previously opposed autonomous vehicles.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45022642/trump-change-of-heart-or-musk-influence-president-once-said-would-keep-autonomous-vehicles-from-operating-on-american-roads">Read the full article here.</a>
Letitia James Denies Mortgage Fraud Claims
New York Attorney General Letitia James is fighting back after a Trump administration official referred her to the Justice Department for alleged mortgage fraud. Her lawyer, Abbe Lowell, labelled the referral &#8220;improper political retribution&#8221; and connected it to her prior legal action against Trump.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/45002822/letitia-james-attorney-blasts-mortgage-fraud-claims-as-improper-political-retribution">Read the full article here.</a>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Politics

Trump's Second Term, Climate Office Closure, Millionaires Tax, And More: This Week In Politics

Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), the world's largest company with a $3.04 trillion market capitalization, designs, manufactures, and markets smartphones, personal computers, tablets, wearables, and accessories worldwide.
It is set to report its Q2 2025 earnings on May 1, after the market close. Wall Street analysts expect the company to post EPS of $1.61, up from $1.53 in the prior-year period. According to Benzinga Pro, quarterly revenue is expected to reach $94.07 billion, up from $90.75 billion a year earlier.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">If You Bought Apple Stock 10 Years Ago</h2>
The company's stock traded at approximately $32.15 per share 10 years ago. If you had invested $10,000, you could have bought roughly 311 shares. Currently, shares trade at $199.74, meaning your investment's value could have grown to $62,128 from stock price appreciation alone. However, Apple also paid dividends during these 10 years.&nbsp;
Apple's dividend yield is currently 0.52%. Over the last 10 years, it has paid about $19.77 in dividends per share, which means you could have made $6,149 from dividends alone.&nbsp;
Summing up $62,128 and $6,149, we end up with the final value of your investment, which is $68,277. This is how much you could have made if you had invested $10,000 in Apple stock 10 years ago. This means a total return of 582.77%. In comparison, S&amp;P 500 total return for the same period is 200.20%.
Trending: The secret weapon in billionaire investor portfolios that you almost certainly don't own yet. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">See which asset class has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 (1995-2024) – and with near-zero correlation.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Could The Next 10 Years Bring?&nbsp;</h2>
Apple has a consensus rating of "Buy" and a price target of $236.43 based on the ratings of 29 analysts. The price target implies more than 18% potential upside from the current stock price.
On Jan. 30, the company announced its Q1 2025 earnings, posting revenues of $124.3 billion, beating analyst estimates of $124.13 billion, as reported by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43355688/apple-q1-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-beat-iphone-sales-slip-installed-base-climbs-to-all-time-high-our-best-quarter-ever">Benzinga</a>. The iPhone maker reported adjusted EPS of $2.40, beating analyst estimates of $2.36.
The past week has been turbulent for Apple. Despite a temporary tariff exemption, concerns over chip tariffs have raised fears of supply chain disruptions. Apple's stock has plunged 23% since April 2, amid escalating U.S.-China tensions. CEO Tim Cook reportedly secured the exemption of Apple's China-produced electronic products from import duties through talks with U.S. officials. Meanwhile, rumors about a foldable iPhone are gaining momentum. Check out this <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44890054/apples-week-of-tariffs-iphone-stockpile-stock-slides-and-more-this-week-in-appleverse">article by Benzinga</a> for a full recap of Apple's recent key developments.
Given the historical stock price appreciation and expected upside potential, growth-focused investors may find Apple stock attractive. Furthermore, they can benefit from the company's solid dividend yield of 0.52% and consistent hikes. Apple has raised its dividend consecutively for the last 13 years.
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Image: Shutterstock

If You Invested $10K In Apple Stock 10 Years Ago, How Much Would You Have Now?

This week, markets across the board have remained relatively calm, with price action reflecting a clear consolidation phase. The Nasdaq, for instance, has formed an inside bar on the weekly chart, meaning the current candle is trading within the high and low of last week's range. This often signals indecision or a buildup before a larger move.
Bitcoin is following a similar pattern. After several weeks of upward movement, the cryptocurrency has entered a tight trading range, consolidating just below key resistance levels. This type of price behavior typically precedes a breakout, and the direction of that breakout could set the tone for Bitcoin&#8217;s next major move.
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Weekly Analysis: Bitcoin Trading Within a Defined Range
On the higher timeframe, Bitcoin remains locked within a clear weekly range. Earlier this week, it dipped below the swing low from March 10, capturing liquidity beneath that level before bouncing back. This kind of price action suggests that buyers are still active and willing to step in at lower prices.
However, Bitcoin has not yet pushed through the key range high near 88,742. This level has now acted as resistance twice, reinforcing its importance. If price returns to this area, how it reacts will be crucial. A clean break above it could open the door to a move toward the 92,000s and possibly set the stage for a run toward all-time highs. On the other hand, another rejection could mark the formation of a local top and increase the chances of a deeper pullback.
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Key Levels and Market Scenarios to Watch
As of now, Bitcoin is holding above 83,000, showing signs of strength despite the consolidation. If it continues to trade above this level and gains momentum, the next upside targets to monitor are 88,000 and then the 92,000s. These levels will be essential in determining whether the current consolidation leads to continuation or reversal.
Should Bitcoin break below 83,000 with conviction, particularly on daily closes, a move down toward the low 80,000s becomes likely. If that support fails to hold, price could revisit the mid-74,000s, an area of previous consolidation and strong demand.
For bullish momentum to remain intact in the bigger picture, Bitcoin needs to stay above 66,000, which marked the low around the election period. As long as price holds above this key higher low, the broader uptrend remains in place, and any pullbacks can be viewed as potential buying opportunities.
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Wrapping Up
Bitcoin is currently in a state of pause after a strong run-up, with price coiling beneath resistance and holding above key support. This kind of consolidation often precedes a decisive move, and traders should be prepared for volatility to return once the range is broken. Whether the breakout comes to the upside or downside will depend on the strength of the next move around the 88,000 and 83,000 zones. As always, staying patient and reactive to price behavior at these key levels will be critical for navigating the next phase in Bitcoin's trend.
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Image: Shutterstock

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