A Pennsylvania man says <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/25/01/43310996/elon-musk-outshines-zuckerberg-200-billion-richer-dominates-politics-and-emerges-as-trumps-right-hand-power-player">Elon Musk</a>&#8216;s promise turned into a financial nightmare—and he&#8217;s taking it to court. The man, referred to as &#8220;John Doe&#8221; in court documents for his safety, filed a<a href="https://legacy.www.documentcloud.org/documents/25878399-doe-v-musk"> class-action lawsuit</a> April 1 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.&nbsp;



He claims Musk&#8217;s America Political Action Committee owes him at least $20,000 for voter referrals tied to a petition push that offered cash for signatures. According to the lawsuit, the PAC promised $100 per signature and another $100 for every successful referral during the 2024 election campaign.



Don't Miss:



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



<li><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.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">When a $100 Promise Turns Into a $5 Million Headache</h2>



The initiative targeted swing states like Pennsylvania and Wisconsin and encouraged voters to support petitions tied to free speech and gun rights. The plaintiff says he was paid his hourly canvassing wage and received partial referral payments—but a substantial chunk, amounting to $20,000, never came through.



According to <a href="https://whyy.org/articles/lawsuit-elon-music-bucks-county-2024-petition-signatures/">WHYY</a>, he repeatedly contacted America PAC in hopes of receiving the remainder but got no response. His lawsuit, which seeks a jury trial, alleges breach of contract and states the plaintiff suffered &#8220;significant emotional and physical distress,&#8221; including damage to his credit and health due to missed bills.



Speaking to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-america-pac-pennslyvania-voter-lawsuit-class-action-2025-4">Business Insider</a>, plaintiff attorney Shannon Liss-Riordan said, &#8220;Our client relied on that promise because he believed in Elon, but unfortunately, that promise was not kept. It appears the promise was broken for many others as well.&#8221; &#8220;He relied on these payments to pay his bills—but they never came.&#8221;



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>



The complaint also says that over 100 people might be in the same situation, pushing potential claims above $5 million.&nbsp;



America PAC spokesperson Andrew Romeo told Business Insider that the organization &#8220;is committed to paying for every legitimate petition signature&#8221; and has &#8220;paid tens of millions of dollars to canvassers.&#8221; Romeo added that while they cannot verify John Doe&#8217;s specific claims, the PAC has the right to withhold payments from &#8220;fraudsters.&#8221;



The lawsuit adds another layer to Musk&#8217;s already controversial 2024 campaign efforts. In addition to the $100-per-signature initiative, America PAC launched a $1 million-per-day sweepstakes to boost voter turnout.&nbsp;



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



However, the <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/national-security/2024/10/24/doj-elon-musk-1-million-giveaway-election-laws/">Department of Justice</a> warned that this could violate federal election laws. Philadelphia District Attorney, Larry Krasner, even filed a lawsuit calling the program an &#8220;illegal lottery scheme.&#8221;



A Pennsylvania judge allowed the giveaway to continue, ruling it didn&#8217;t legally constitute a lottery. According to<a href="https://pbswisconsin.org/news-item/what-does-wisconsin-law-say-about-musk-having-offered-money-to-voters/"> PBS Wisconsin</a>, Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul challenged the sweepstakes' legality under election bribery laws, but the state&#8217;s Supreme Court declined to intervene.



The program went ahead. Notably, just before the Wisconsin Supreme Court election earlier this month, Musk&#8217;s PAC handed out two $1 million checks to voters who&#8217;d signed the petitions, per<a href="https://wisconsinexaminer.com/briefs/musk-pac-offers-wisconsin-voters-100-for-signing-petition-against-activist-judges/"> Wisconsin Examiner</a>.



Read Next:



<ul>
<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>With shares starting at $1.52, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-a-10k-bet-on-health-care-originals-could-have-skyrocketed-your-portfolio">this could be your chance to invest in the future of healthcare</a>.</li>
</ul>



Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

Elon Musk's $100-Per-Signature Offer Sparks $5 Million Lawsuit—Canvasser Says: 'He Relied On These Payments To Pay His Bills—But They Never Came'

Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) has gone from being an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/artificial-intelligence">AI crown jewel</a> to a geopolitical chess piece. And, it looks like Wall Street just got a front-row seat to a high-stakes poker game between Washington and Beijing.



After weeks of tension, the first real blow in the U.S.-China tech trade war has landed: the White House is blocking Nvidia's H20 chip sales to China. "This week were the first shots fired in the trade war in the tech world," said Wedbush analyst Dan Ives.



With 145% reciprocal tariffs in play, and tech still awaiting Section 232 hits &#8211; Nvidia is now "caught in the eye of this Category 5 storm," said Ives. While the financial damage may be manageable for now, the strategic signal is deafening. America's most prized chipmaker just got walled off from the world's second-largest economy. "Nvidia is one of the most important pieces in this chess game with China&#8230;and restricting its H20 chips is an important move that will clearly spark more actions from Beijing."



Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44882893/billionaire-peter-hargreaves-backed-fund-offloads-stake-in-meta-microsoft-amid-global-economic-woes">Billionaire Peter Hargreaves-Backed Fund Offloads Stake In Meta, Microsoft Amid Global Economic Woes</a>



Meanwhile, CEO Jensen Huang is reportedly in China &#8211; an eyebrow-raising detail amid rising tensions. As Ives puts it, "the Street waits for the next poker move."



While Nvidia's dominance in AI remains unchallenged, the short-term turbulence is real. The market is already "baking in a 7%-10% (or more) cut to 2025 numbers across the board," Ives says. The upcoming June quarter? A mulligan, with "minimal/no guidance expected during this earnings season."



Adding fuel to the fire: Advanced Micro Devices Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) and others are now seeing similar restrictions, a trend that's been brewing since the Biden administration but is now front and center in Trump's trade war redux. Ives doesn't mince words: "The Trump Administration knows there is one chip and company fueling the AI Revolution and it's Nvidia… and put a ‘Do Not Enter' sign in front of China."



Nvidia remains the ace in America's AI hand &#8211; but right now, it's being played in a global poker game, not an earnings report.



Read Next: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44883683/xi-jinpings-minister-urges-nvidia-us-firms-to-invest-more-in-china-during-meeting-with-jensen-huang-despite-chip-export-curbs">Xi Jinping&#8217;s Minister Urges Nvidia, US Firms To Invest More In China During Meeting With Jensen Huang, Despite Chip Export Curbs</a></li>
</ul>



Image: Shutterstock/gguy

Analyst Color

Long Ideas

Analyst Ratings

Tech

Trading Ideas

NVDA

Nvidia's 'Do Not Enter' Sign: Caught In A Category 5 Tariff Storm

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



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



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



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



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



The Bulls



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



The Bears



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

News

Markets

APLD

NFLX

PLTR

SBUX

TSLA

USAR

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:



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



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



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



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



Read Next:



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

Exclusives

EQIX

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Now Read:



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

Asset Sales

ALGM

GRPN

LYFT

PAYX

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

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



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



Here's everything you need to know.



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



Avicanna Reports Record Year



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



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



Key 2024 milestones include:



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



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



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



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



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



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



Tilray Plans Reverse Stock Split



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



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



Safe Harbor and FundCanna Join Forces



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



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



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



Congress Reintroduces STATES 2.0 Act



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



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



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



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



Minnesota Finalizes Adult-Use Cannabis Rules



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



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



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



Slovenia Unveils Progressive Medical Cannabis Law



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



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



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



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



DeSantis Faces Scrutiny Over Anti-Cannabis Funding



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



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



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



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



Carmelo Anthony Launches STAYME7O In New York



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



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



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



Curaleaf Turns Dispensary Into Hemp Shop



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



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



Trulieve Invests $19.6M To Revive Legalization Push



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



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



Herbwell Cannabis Targets Manhattan's Elite



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



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



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



New Jersey's First E-Bike Weed Delivery



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



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



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



Mike Tyson Becomes CEO Of Carma HoldCo



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



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



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



Weedmaps Drops 420 1's Sneaker Collab With CEEZE



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



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



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



Swatch's 4/20 Watch Gets a Second Life



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



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



Dreka Gates, Tiffany Haddish And Chamath Sound Off



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



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



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



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



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



Landmark Study Confirms Cannabis Benefits for Cancer Patients



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



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



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



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



Israel Slaps 165% Tariffs on Canadian Cannabis



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Cannabis

Earnings

Politics

General

AVCNF

CURLF

SHFS

TCNNF

TLRY

TSX:AVCN

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

President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;has excluded a range of technology products, including certain consumer electronics made in China, from the reciprocal tariffs. The list of exemptions, released by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, effectively <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44784092/apple-smci-nvidia-and-amd-stocks-climb-in-monday-pre-market-whats-going-on" rel="noreferrer noopener">reduces the scope of the imposed levies</a>.



The exclusions apply to smartphones, laptops, hard drives, and computer processors and memory chips, shielding them from Trump&#8217;s proposed 125% tariff on Chinese goods and the baseline 10% global tariff on most other countries.



Pedestrians in at least three California cities were met with bizarre AI-generated voice clips mimicking Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and Meta Platforms Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) Mark Zuckerberg after crosswalk buttons were <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44784312/hacked-crosswalk-buttons-in-california-cities-play-ai-generated-elon-musk-zuckerberg-voice-clips-mocking-democracy-and-begging-for-friends" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reportedly hacked over the weekend.</a>



Automotive



Rivian Automotive Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) founder and CEO RJ Scaringe has said the company boasts a "U.S.-centric" supply chain amid&nbsp;Donald Trump&#8216;s 25% <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44836493/rivians-us-centric-supply-chain-could-offer-edge-amid-trumps-auto-tariffs-says-ceo-rj-scaringe" rel="noreferrer noopener">tariffs on the auto industry</a>.



Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) has released a cheaper, long-range version of the Model Y facelift. The new version replaces the limited-run launch edition, which is no longer <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44809616/heres-how-the-new-2025-tesla-model-y-long-range-differs-from-the-limited-run-launch-edition" rel="noreferrer noopener">available for sale by the company</a>.



A&nbsp;Tesla Model Y was spotted testing in India&#8217;s Mumbai, adding to the anticipation of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44833951/elon-musk-led-teslas-model-y-spotted-testing-in-mumbai-ahead-of-india-debut" rel="noreferrer noopener">the company&#8217;s debut in India</a>.



Social Media/Entertainment



Netflix Inc.&nbsp;has begun testing an artificial intelligence–powered search engine that enables subscribers to find movies and TV shows based on their emotions, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44778760/netflix-debuts-openai-backed-search-engine-that-lets-you-discover-movies-and-tv-shows-based-on-emotions-not-just-titles" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">preferences, or specific situations</a>.



TikTok‘s U.S. public policy chief,&nbsp;Michael Beckerman, is leaving his Washington-based role to transition <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/04/44856624/tiktoks-us-policy-chief-steps-down-as-bidding-war-heats-up-after-trump-extends-deadline-report">to a global advisory position</a>.



Technology



Nvidia Corp.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>) and&nbsp;Alphabet Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) have reportedly decided to invest in the artificial intelligence startup co-founded by former&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44778730/nvidia-and-alphabet-to-back-openai-co-founder-ilya-sutskevers-new-ai-startup-safe-superintelligence-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44778730/nvidia-and-alphabet-to-back-openai-co-founder-ilya-sutskevers-new-ai-startup-safe-superintelligence-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">chief scientist&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44778730/nvidia-and-alphabet-to-back-openai-co-founder-ilya-sutskevers-new-ai-startup-safe-superintelligence-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ilya Sutskever</a>.



Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s&nbsp;Google&nbsp;rolled out its&nbsp;Veo 2&nbsp;model <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44832438/googles-veo-2-will-allow-you-to-create-high-resolution-videos-with-text-in-gemini-app-sundar-pichai-shows-off-cyberpunk-style-anime" rel="noreferrer noopener">to&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44832438/googles-veo-2-will-allow-you-to-create-high-resolution-videos-with-text-in-gemini-app-sundar-pichai-shows-off-cyberpunk-style-anime" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gemini Advanced</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44832438/googles-veo-2-will-allow-you-to-create-high-resolution-videos-with-text-in-gemini-app-sundar-pichai-shows-off-cyberpunk-style-anime" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;users</a>.



Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s&nbsp;Google&#8217;s DeepMind&nbsp;is diving into marine science with a new AI model designed to help <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44833198/can-ai-talk-to-dolphins-googles-deepmind-creates-dolphingemma-to-explore-animal-language" rel="noreferrer noopener">researchers decode dolphin communication</a>.



Meta Platforms announced Friday it will appoint&nbsp;Dina Powell&nbsp;McCormick&nbsp;and&nbsp;Stripe&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Patrick Collison&nbsp;to its board of directors, effective April 15. The move increased the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44782094/meta-board-shake-up-trump-era-veteran-dina-powell-and-stripe-ceo-join-as-zuckerberg-reshapes-companys-political-and-strategic-direction" rel="noreferrer noopener">board&#8217;s size to 15 members</a>.



Microsoft Corporation&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) announced a research preview of &#8220;Computer Use,&#8221; a new tool within&nbsp;Copilot Studio&nbsp;that enables AI agents to perform tasks on desktop and web <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44831264/microsoft-debuts-computer-use-tool-for-copilot-studio-ceo-satya-nadella-says-anyone-can-build-agents-that-take-action-on-the-ui-across-desktop-and-web-apps" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">applications by interacting directly</a>.



Bill Gates&nbsp;says artificial intelligence will soon wipe out chronic shortages of skilled workers like doctors and teachers, eventually forcing societies to rethink the value of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44857520/bill-gates-says-his-kids-and-grandkids-will-live-in-a-very-changed-world-as-ai-puts-an-end-to-shortage-of-teachers-and-doctors">time and the concept of ‘work hours</a>'.



Smartphones



Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) investors breathed a much-needed sigh of relief on Friday when the Trump administration announced a decision to exempt iPhones, iPads, and Macs from the latest wave of reciprocal tariffs. This might have saved the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/04/44788262/apples-margins-catch-a-break-but-road-ahead-still-looks-bumpy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> company from a near-term cost storm</a>.



Image: Shutterstock/Gorodenkoff

Equities

Large Cap

AAPL

GOOG

MSFT

RIVN

Consumer Tech News (Apr 14-Apr 18): Trump's 125% China Tariff Sidesteps Consumer Tech, Tesla Model Y Spotted in India & More

Stock market expert Jon Erlichman recently shared a review of stock returns during the last six U.S. recessions, highlighting those that have performed well in difficult times.



In a video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27Lm9FH-c70">post</a> and also on X, Erlichman shared his analysis of stock returns during the past six recessions in the U.S.



&#8220;The Great Recession, which was longer from 2007 to 2009. We added in the dot-com recession, the recession in the early 90s, and the recessions in the early 80s. So you look at that, you start to get a better sample size,&#8221; he said. 



<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">We reviewed stock returns in the past 6 U.S. recessions. Here's a list of stocks that have navigated well during tough times. <a href="https://t.co/vPPsxp9UUE">https://t.co/vPPsxp9UUE</a>&mdash; Jon Erlichman (@JonErlichman) <a href="https://twitter.com/JonErlichman/status/1913326228255232100?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



In alphabetical order, he mentioned about stock number one, AutoZone (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZO#NYSE">AZO</a>). He said that AutoZone is a great example of a stock that has done well during past recessions. Stock number two was Clorox (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CLX#NYSE">CLX</a>). He said that Clorox is a great example of a stock that did well during the last recession.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44550770/study-investor-fears-of-crash-could-actually-fuel-stock-market-performance">Study: Investor Fears of Crash Could Actually Fuel Stock Market Performance</a>



The other recession proof stocks he suggested were, General Mills (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GIS#NYSE">GIS</a>), IBM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), J.M. Smucker (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SJM#NYSE">SJM</a>), McDonald&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>), Newmont (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEM#NYSE">NEM</a>), Netflix (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>), O&#8217;Reilly Automotive (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORLY#NASDAQ">ORLY</a>), Sherwin-Williams (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHW#NYSE">SHW</a>), and Walmart (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>). 



&#8220;And if you go back through all these six recessions, this is the stock that really stands out as a recession-proof stock. Now, of course, we&#8217;ve got the tariff uncertainty right now. That&#8217;s not great for retailers, but Walmart executives have already come out,&#8221; he said in the post. 



The analysis shared by Erlichman is particularly relevant in the current economic climate. With ongoing market volatility and uncertainty, investors are constantly on the lookout for stocks that can weather economic downturns. 



Erlichman&#8217;s review offers a historical perspective on stocks that have demonstrated resilience in the face of recessions, potentially guiding investors towards more stable investment options during turbulent times.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44448912/bear-market-in-diversification-eases-as-investors-seek-alternative-assets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bear Market in Diversification Eases as Investors Seek Alternative Assets</a>



Image: Shutterstock/iQoncept

ORLY

Stocks That Weathered Past Recessions: Expert Shares Picks That Withstood Every Downturn

The International Monetary Fund, or IMF, has expressed concern over escalating trade tensions sparked by new U.S. tariffs but emphasized that a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44884282/analyst-predicts-recession-is-coming-despite-financial-crisis-put-on-hold-warns-rich-kids-insulated-from-their-own-actions" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">global recession is not on the horizon</a>.



The organization acknowledged a sharp rise in economic uncertainty, particularly in relation to trade policy, yet maintained a cautiously optimistic outlook for global growth, BBC reports.



While financial markets have faltered and geopolitical trust has deteriorated, the IMF stated that its revised projections reflect a slowdown—but not a full-blown recession.



Global equity markets have taken a hit since U.S. President Donald Trump introduced sweeping tariffs on April 2, an event dubbed &#8220;Liberation Day&#8221; by the White House.



Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/04/44871428/blackstone-president-warns-of-recession-risk-tied-to-trumps-tariffs" rel="noreferrer noopener">Blackstone President Warns Of Recession Risk Tied To Trump&#8217;s Tariffs</a>



Major indexes remain down, with investor sentiment shaken by fears of retaliatory trade measures and sluggish global investment.



The World Trade Organization (WTO) has predicted a contraction in international trade volumes this year, directly linking the outlook to Washington&#8217;s tariff strategy, BBC adds.



Kristalina Georgieva, managing director of the IMF, urged nations to use the moment as an opportunity for structural reform.



BBC quotes Georgieva saying, &#8220;A better balanced, more resilient world economy is within reach.&#8221;



&#8220;We must act to secure it,&#8221; she said.



Georgieva called on the U.S. to address its fiscal deficit, encouraged China to bolster social safety nets, and pressed Europe to eliminate internal trade barriers in services and deepen its economic integration.



Despite lingering fears of a downturn, the IMF&#8217;s current stance offers reassurance that the global economy can weather the turbulence—provided governments act decisively.



The organization emphasized collective responsibility and policy coordination as the path to renewed growth and stability.



Read Next:&nbsp;



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/04/44817229/chinese-tiktok-influencers-expose-cheap-nike-lululemon-suppliers-to-bypass-trump-tariffs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chinese TikTok Influencers ‘Expose' Cheap Nike, Lululemon Suppliers To Bypass Trump Tariffs </a></li>
</ul>



Image: Shutterstock/Maxx Studio

Recession? Not So Fast, Says IMF — Even After Trump Tariff Chaos

Bill Ackman&#8216;s hedge fund Pershing Square Capital Management has acquired a significant stake in Hertz Global Holdings Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HTZ#NYSE">HTZ</a>).



What Happened: The stake, which includes both&nbsp;share ownership and total return&nbsp;swaps, has been built up since the end of last year. 



Ackman is of the opinion that Hertz can bounce back from an ill-advised investment in&nbsp;Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) electric vehicles and leverage a potential surge in used-car prices triggered by President Donald Trump&#8216;s&nbsp;tariff on US auto imports.



In a post on X, Ackman said that the company has "a 19.8% stake in the company comprised of outright share ownership and total return swaps."



<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">We began accumulating shares in <a href="https://twitter.com/Hertz?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hertz</a> late last year, and as of today, we have a 19.8% stake in the company comprised of outright share ownership and total return swaps. Hertz can be thought of as an operating company combined with a highly leveraged portfolio of automobiles.…&mdash; Bill Ackman (@BillAckman) <a href="https://twitter.com/BillAckman/status/1912955549542744462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 17, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



"Hertz is uniquely well-positioned in the current tariff environment. Hertz owns a fleet of over 500,000 vehicles valued at approximately $12 billion. A 10% increase in used car prices would equate to a $1.2 billion gain on its auto assets – equivalent to approximately half of the company's current market capitalization," Ackman added in the post. 



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44065982/bill-ackman-predicts-strong-future-for-berkshire-hathaway-after-warren-buffett-steps-down">Bill Ackman Predicts Strong Future for Berkshire Hathaway After Warren Buffett Steps Down</a>



Following the news, Hertz&#8217;s shares soared&nbsp;44% in New York trading&nbsp;on Thursday, doubling in value over a two-day rally. 



The company&#8217;s CEO, Gil West, who is responsible for managing the company&#8217;s significant debt and implementing the turnaround, expressed gratitude for Ackman&#8217;s support in a note to employees.



Ackman also suggested a future where Hertz, leveraging its global presence, could manage a fleet of autonomous vehicles for&nbsp;Uber Technologies Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>). Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi responded positively to the idea, expressing interest in expanding their existing partnership.



&#8220;Investing is risky. There are no guarantees of a successful outcome. Caveat emptor,&#8221; he concluded in his post. 



Why It Matters: Ackman&#8217;s investment in Hertz is a strong vote of confidence in the company&#8217;s turnaround strategy. The hedge fund manager&#8217;s belief that Hertz can recover from its investment in Tesla and benefit from&nbsp;a potential rise in used-car&nbsp;prices due to tariffs on US auto imports could signal a positive future for the company.



Moreover, the idea of Hertz managing a fleet of autonomous vehicles for Uber could open up new avenues for the company, further strengthening its position in the market. However, Ackman has warned investors about the inherent risks, stating, &#8220;Investing is risky. There&nbsp;are no guarantees of a&nbsp;successful outcome. Caveat emptor.&#8221;



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42635629/bill-ackmans-advice-stay-away-from-shorting-stocks-avoid-commodity-sensitive-industries-and-you-do-great">Bill Ackman&#8217;s Advice: &#8216;Stay Away From Shorting Stocks, Avoid Commodity-Sensitive Industries, And You Do Great&#8217;</a>



Image: Shutterstock/Tupungato

UBER

Ackman Bets Big on Hertz as Tariff Tailwinds Boost Fleet Value: 'Investing Is Risky, There Are No Guarantees of a Successful Outcome'

Cryptocurrency analyst Benjamin Cowen has proposed that Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) could potentially see a 137% increase in a perfect market scenario.



What Happened: Cowen, during his discussion with Kyle Chasse, put forth that Bitcoin could reach up to $200,000 if it&nbsp;is currently in a right-translated&nbsp;cycle. This type of market cycle is characterized by prices peaking later rather than sooner.



During the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nTKdVWUM1Y">interview</a>, Cowen inferred that in such a cycle, Bitcoin could experience a 10x increase from its lowest point, positioning it around $150,000. However, he does not anticipate Bitcoin reaching $300,000 in this cycle, even though he is confident it will eventually hit that mark.



The analyst stressed that for Bitcoin to stay on course for new all-time highs in this cycle, it needs to uphold the 2024 high of&nbsp;approximately&nbsp;$72,000 on the weekly chart. He expressed a positive outlook for later in the year if Bitcoin can sustain this level, even in the face of another pullback.



"I would say that it's possible if we get a right translated cycle that from the bottom Bitcoin could go up about 10x or something, which would probably put it around $150,000. So I would say, in a right translated cycle my guess is that it would be anywhere from like $120,000 to like $150,000,&#8221; he said. 



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44888965/this-crypto-analyst-forecasts-bitcoins-superiority-over-altcoins-until-this-happens">This Crypto Analyst Forecasts Bitcoin&#8217;s Superiority Over Altcoins Until This Happens</a>



&#8220;It's possible in the perfect scenario that it could go all the way up to $200,000. I don't think Bitcoin will hit $300,000 this cycle. I do think Bitcoin will eventually hit $300,000, but I don't think it will be this cycle," Cowen added. 



&#8220;I would definitely become more optimistic later on this year. That's my main concern right now, is, if there is another pullback, can we hold it? The good news is we've held it so far, and we actually technically we haven't even tested it. So the good news is if there is another drop, you probably would have some bulls try to hold the line at those levels because we haven't even tested those levels yet," he continued. 



At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading at $84,483, with no significant change on the day.



Why It Matters: Cowen&#8217;s predictions come at a time when Bitcoin&#8217;s performance is under intense scrutiny. The cryptocurrency&#8217;s ability to maintain a high weekly chart, as Cowen suggests, could be a key determinant of its future trajectory. 



His forecast of a potential 137% surge under ideal conditions underscores the volatile and unpredictable nature of the crypto market. However, it also highlights the immense potential for growth that Bitcoin holds, reinforcing its appeal to investors. 



Despite the lack of a specific timeline for when Bitcoin might hit the $300,000 mark, Cowen&#8217;s optimism provides a positive outlook for the cryptocurrency&#8217;s long-term performance.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44065728/crypto-analyst-predicts-195-bitcoin-rally-says-bull-market-not-over-yet" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Crypto Analyst Predicts 195% Bitcoin Rally, Says Bull Market Not Over Yet</a>



Image: Shutterstock/Bukhta Yurii

Cryptocurrency

$BTC

This Crypto Analyst Predicts Bitcoin Could Soar 137% Under Perfect Market Conditions

Chocolate lovers are in for a rude awakening this Easter, with their favorite bars, cherished brands, and even the iconic Cadbury Creme Egg are significantly dearer compared to prior years.



The 370% rally in cocoa prices, from $2,600 a ton in 2023 to $12,200 in April 2024, is more than just a bitter pill for consumers. It is weighing on the entire supply chain, from farmers and traders to confectionery giants and small chocolatiers alike.



While prices have stabilized this year, they are still well above historic averages at $7,750 a ton, and analysts warn that there is little relief on the horizon.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Turmoil In West Africa &#8211; Poor Weather, Crop Failures &amp; Floods</h2>



The world produces nearly 6 million tonnes of cocoa beans each year, with two-thirds of them coming from the West African nations of Ghana and Ivory Coast. Starting with the 2022-23 cocoa season, however, the region has been hit by a perfect storm of floods, crop failures, and shifting weather patterns.



According to the International Cocoa Association, the global market has faced three consecutive years of deficit, the latest being a 150,000 tonne deficit during the 2024-25 season.&nbsp;



Following devastating floods that wiped out key growing regions, the extra dry Harmattan season roasted the cocoa pods, according to a <a href="https://think.ing.com/articles/cocoa-deficit-concerns-grow-chocolate-prices-record/">report</a> by ING Group analysts. Harmattan refers to dusty easterly or north-easterly winds on the West African coast that prevail between December to February. 



To make matters worse, nearly 600,000 hectares of the 1.4 million hectares of land in Ghana that is under cocoa production has been infected with Swollen Foot Virus, which affects cocoa trees, harming their yield, and ultimately killing them, according to Reuters.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="710" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/18044906/cc1_com-1024x710.png" alt="" class="wp-image-878110" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/18044906/cc1_com-1024x710.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/18044906/cc1_com-300x208.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/18044906/cc1_com-768x532.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/18044906/cc1_com.png 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Chart representing Cocoa prices in USD per Tonne: source: tradingeconomics.com



Even as the dust settles on these issues, climate change-driven shifting weather patterns are threatening to destroy West Africa's cocoa industry for good.



Max Dugan-Knight, a climate data scientist at Deep Sky, a Canadian carbon capture startup, says that cocoa is grown in tropical climates, but persistent temperatures above 90°F kill cocoa trees. Both Ivory Coast and Ghana now see extended periods above these thresholds every year.



Climate change is causing more extreme heat, extreme precipitation, and larger swings between hot and cold and wet and dry. None of that is good for crops like cocoa, he adds.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tariffs &amp; Other Structural Issues</h2>



While critical problems continue to persist across key areas of the supply, new structural issues have since cropped up, further adding to the complexity of this crisis.



With just two days left for Easter, the White House is planning its annual Easter Egg Roll, a time-honored tradition going back nearly 150 years. The event will use 30,000 real eggs, but for those who want to celebrate with chocolate Easter Bunnies and eggs, things aren't as festive.



Recently, the U.S. Government <a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44616760/donald-trump-sets-reciprocal-tariffs-on-key-trade-partners-in-historic-policy-shock">imposed reciprocal tariffs</a> of 21% on the Ivory Coast and 10% on Ghana, making cocoa more expensive for importers and chocolate producers located in the United States. To make matters worse, no region in the U.S. besides small parts of Hawaii is suitable for cultivating cocoa.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Shrinkflation Takes Hold of Big Chocolate</h2>



The big chocolate and confectionery companies such as Hershey Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HSY#NYSE">HSY</a>) and Mondelez International Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDLZ#NASDAQ">MDLZ</a>), which owns Cadbury's, have come under pressure from rising raw material prices, but not to the extent that was expected.



While cocoa prices have rallied over 300%, Hershey's has raised prices by 12% to 13% for some products, Mondelez by less than 10% for its chocolate products, while other popular brands such as Lindt &amp; Spruengli AG have hiked prices by 6.5%.



According to the consumer price index, the retail price of chocolate has increased by 3% over the past year. A part of this was owing to the extensive hedging strategies and long-term contracts used by the big companies to handle volatility, but that doesn't last very long.



As cocoa prices show no signs of retreating, companies have begun employing other strategies to maintain their prices and margins in the long run.&nbsp;



This includes a reduction in product sizes, or ‘Shrinkflation,' along with changing formulations, with some products now labeled &#8220;chocolatey&#8221; or &#8220;chocolate flavored&#8221; to reflect reduced cocoa content, according to a <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-02-29/rising-cocoa-prices-drive-mars-hersey-to-use-less-chocolate">report</a> by Bloomberg.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Small Craft Chocolatiers Are Doing Better</h2>



Smaller craft chocolatiers see an opportunity in this crisis and are using their unique niche positioning to pass on the costs to consumers.



According to Chaitanya Muppala, the CEO of Manam Chocolate, an Indian craft chocolate brand focused on ethical sourcing and sustainability, "Given that for many companies the cacao content is going to change to cushion the volatility, this stands as an opportunity for us to truly familiarize people with premium quality, world-class chocolate."



Muppala adds that fine flavor cacao that craft chocolatiers work with has always traded at a premium to bulk cacao, and while the gap has narrowed, it still trades at a considerable premium. "We don't bother much about spot cacao prices," he says.



According to Carla Martin, director of the Fine Cacao and Chocolate Institute at Harvard University, there are 400 specialty chocolate companies in the U.S., a number that has doubled since 2017. She now worries that the rising prices alongside the new tariffs by the Trump administration could kill this nascent industry, as <a href="https://www.marketplace.org/story/2025/01/03/climate-related-cocoa-shortages-put-strain-on-the-global-chocolate-industry">reported</a> by The Marketplace. &nbsp;



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Easter Bunnies: More Expensive Than Ever, Not Getting Any Cheaper</h2>



Chocolate Easter bunnies, already costlier to produce due to their intricate shapes, are expected to see price increases, with German manufacturers reporting bunnies are 2 to 3 times more expensive than regular chocolate bars, according to a <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/germany-high-global-cocoa-prices-hamper-easter-bunny-output/a-72220808">report</a> by DW.&nbsp;



Cocoa's rally has turned a holiday indulgence into a bellwether for climate resilience and trade policy. Whether the industry can channel record prices into better farm incomes and sustainable replanting will determine if the current boom ends in relief, or another meltdown the following Easter.



Photo Courtesy: LenaAndPhoto via Shutterstock.com



Read Next: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/04/44856564/former-cable-exec-says-netflixs-1-trillion-goal-is-very-realistic-heres-why-its-not-far-fetched">Netflix&#8217;s $1 Trillion Goal &#8216;Very Realistic&#8217;, Says Former Cable Executive: &#8216;It&#8217;s Not That Hard To Get There&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Commodities

MDLZ

Easter Candy Sticker Shock: Trump Tariffs And Climate Threaten to Make Your Chocolate Bunny A Luxury Item

<ul>
<li>Coinbase Institutional has suggested that the cryptocurrency market is at the start of a bearish cycle.</li>



<li>Bitcoin and major altcoins have fallen below a key technical level.</li>



<li>Coinbase Institutional does not expect the cryptocurrency bear market cycle to last long.</li>
</ul>



Amid <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44830360/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-match-stock-futures-decline-as-nvidia-faces-pressure-analyst-sees-signs-of-resumption-of-btcs-uptrend">declining prices and growing market uncertainty</a> over the past few months, the burning question on the minds of several cryptocurrency market participants has been: Is the bull market cycle over?



Coinbase Institutional, the institution-facing arm of the leading U.S. cryptocurrency exchange, is the latest to attempt to answer the question. The answer? Probably, especially in the short term.



Don't Miss:



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



<li><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.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">‘Crypto Winter'</h2>



&#8220;Several converging signals may be pointing to the start of a new &#8216;crypto winter,'&#8221; Coinbase Institutional Global Head of Research David Duong asserted in a Tuesday <a href="https://www.coinbase.com/institutional/research-insights/research/monthly-outlook/monthly-outlook-apr-2025">note</a>.



Crypto winter is an extended bear market phase characterized by falling prices, low volumes, and negative market sentiment.



Amid market uncertainty sparked by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44845141/nvidia-drags-wall-street-down-gold-defies-gravity-ahead-of-powell-remarks-whats-driving-markets-wednesday">the U.S.-led trade war</a>, Duong argues that Bitcoin has been trading in bear market territory since late March and altcoins, specifically the top 50 coins per market cap, since the end of February, citing the 200-day moving average.



The moving average is a technical indicator traders often rely on to cut through the noise from market fluctuations and identify the underlying trend. The 200DMA, in particular, is widely believed to indicate long-term market trends. If an asset&#8217;s price is above the indicator, it is considered to be in a bull market and vice versa.



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>



Bitcoin fell below the 200DMA on March 9 and has failed to hold above since.



Beyond the 200DMA, Duong highlighted significant declines in the total cryptocurrency market capitalization and venture capital funding as further evidence that cryptocurrencies were in a bear market cycle.



Specifically, he noted that the total crypto market capitalization, excluding Bitcoin, stood at $950 billion, down 41% from a December 2024 high of $1.6 trillion and 17% year-on-year.



At the same time, according to the analyst, venture capital funding in the cryptocurrency space remains over 50% below the levels observed during the height of the 2021-2022 cycle, suggesting reduced fresh capital inflows, especially for altcoins.



But Duong remains optimistic that the current cryptocurrency bear market trajectory may not last long.&nbsp;



&#8220;We still believe that crypto prices may be able to find their floor in mid-to-late 2Q25 &#8211; setting up a better 3Q25,&#8221; he wrote.



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">Improved Global Liquidity</h2>



Speaking to Benzinga about why Coinbase Institutional is anticipating a Q3 market recovery, Duong explained that he expects global liquidity to recover in late Q2, helped by anticipated lower borrowing costs from interest rate reductions. At the same time, he asserted that secular trends like AI were likely to sustain long-term growth.



&#8220;Thus, we think it&#8217;s possible that this quarter may represent the low for crypto prices in 2025 – barring any major paradigm shifts – as tax cuts, deregulation and other stimulative fiscal policies may yet materialize later this year. That would also enable some of positive [sic] crypto regulatory developments to support markets,&#8221; he submitted.



The positive cryptocurrency regulatory developments referenced by Duong likely refer to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/25/04/44758705/ripple-sec-move-to-end-legal-dispute-as-both-sides-withdraw-appeals">the less combative approach</a> regulators have taken to the sector under President Donald Trump and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44420122/donald-trump-calls-for-stablecoin-legislation-lauds-bitcoin-reserve-biden-got-a-fraction-of-their-value">the push to pass pro-cryptocurrency regulation</a> before year-end.



Citing similar factors, Cardano founder <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44781236/why-cardano-founder-sees-bitcoin-hitting-250k-this-year-despite-trump-tariffs">Charles Hoskinson recently contended</a> that Bitcoin still had the potential to surge to a new price record of $250,000 this year. At the time of writing, however, the asset is struggling to hold above the $85,000 price point.



Read Next:



<ul>
<li>With high-demand properties in the Midwest, Bam Capital has delivered 2.46x equity multiples in just over 3 years. No losses. No missed payments. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/investing-in-the-midwest-why-multifamily-real-estate-is-a-winning-strategy">Learn more about becoming an investor today</a>.&nbsp;</li>



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



Image: Shutterstock

Coinbase Institutional Says Several Signs Point To 'Crypto Winter' But Remains Optimistic About H2 2025

Mark Cuban isn't interested in patching up the healthcare system with duct tape and buzzwords. He wants to rip it open, throw it under a spotlight, and ask what a lot of Americans are already thinking: Why is this entire industry allowed to operate in complete darkness?



In a February <a href="https://hospitalogy.com/articles/2025-04-04/i-just-wanna-fck-up-healthcare/">fireside chat</a> with Hospitalogy founder Blake Madden—later revisited in April—the billionaire behind Cost Plus Drugs didn't hold back. He took aim at insurance companies, hospitals, consultants, and just about anyone profiting off the confusion. And yes, he said it: "I don't think there's a reason that health insurance should exist."



Don't Miss:



<ul>
<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>Invest in the future of digital engagement: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/vatom-adv">Own a piece of the $100 billion Metaverse for just $500</a>.</li>
</ul>



Cuban's not looking to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43932776/mark-cuban-slams-fd-up-healthcare-system-blames-insurance-designed-deductibles-for-patient-bankruptcy">compete with insurers</a>. He just wants to make them irrelevant. "We're going to try to make it so that self-insured employers have no reason to work with insurance companies," he said. In his view, insurers approve plans that restrict access and bury costs behind layers of red tape. Worse, they don't even ask the most basic questions.



"Why is the health of our entire country based on providers who don't know their own f&#x2A;cking costs?" he asked.



Hospitals don't get a pass either. Cuban blasted their refusal to publish general ledgers or disclose what procedures and services actually cost. He called out the culture of secrecy, noting that executives are afraid of what transparency might reveal. "People don't want to do that because they're scared of what it would do for their business."



Trending: Maker of a life-changing asthma device with 12,000+ patients waiting, FDA clearance, and a 67% drop in attacks — now <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-a-10k-bet-on-health-care-originals-could-have-skyrocketed-your-portfolio">taking final investors at just $1.52 per share.</a>



To Cuban, that's more than just bad management—it's a moral failure. "This isn't the Dallas Mavericks," he said. "This is the health and welfare of our entire country."



And while he proudly calls himself a capitalist, he draws a line when it comes to healthcare. "You don't have to just grab every nickel that you can get when there's this at stake."



If the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44530674/mark-cuban-vows-to-revamp-us-healthcare-by-empowering-independent-pharmacies-wants-no-pharmacy-deserts">industry refuses to act on its own</a>, Cuban believes it's time for regulators to step in. Not to micromanage. Not to take over. Just to require the basics.



"You've got to open the books," he said.



He's pushing for laws that would force hospitals and insurers to disclose actual costs, margins, and spending—something he says should be standard practice in any business that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/25/02/43662970/mark-cuban-says-u-s-healthcare-is-horrific-calls-for-free-medical-school-to-fix-doctor-shortages-and-soaring-costs">deals with life-and-death decisions</a>. If transparency threatens the business model, Cuban's argument is simple: maybe that business shouldn't exist in the first place.



Read Next:



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



Image: Shutterstock

Mark Cuban Says Health Insurance Shouldn't Exist — 'You Don't Have to Grab Every Nickel When It's the Health of the Entire Country at Stake'

Chinese Vice Premier&nbsp;He Lifeng&nbsp;has extended an invitation to U.S. enterprises, including&nbsp;Nvidia Corporation&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), to enhance their footprint in the Chinese market.



What Happened: During a meeting with Nvidia&#8217;s CEO&nbsp;Jensen Huang&nbsp;in Beijing, He Lifeng,&nbsp;also a member of the&nbsp;Political Bureau of the Communist&nbsp;Party of China Central Committee,&nbsp;highlighted the immense investment and consumption potential of the Chinese market, as per a&nbsp;state media agency <a href="https://english.www.gov.cn/news/202504/17/content_WS68010c29c6d0868f4e8f1d40.html">Xinhua </a>on Friday.



He Lifeng highlighted that China&#8217;s ongoing industrial transformation and upgrade create an ideal environment for the new wave of technological and industrial advancements. He also emphasized that China has long been a promising destination for foreign-funded enterprises to invest and engage in trade.



He Lifeng urged U.S.-funded companies, including Nvidia, to focus more on the Chinese market and fully leverage their industrial strengths and capabilities in China, thereby gaining an advantage in global competition.



SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/25/04/44816385/joe-rogan-says-ross-perot-was-right-american-manufacturing-collapsed-because-greedy-executives-sent-jobs-ove" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joe Rogan Says Ross Perot Was Right: &#8216;American Manufacturing Collapsed&#8217; Because &#8216;Greedy&#8217; Executives Sent Jobs Overseas</a>



Why It Matters: This invitation comes at a crucial time when the U.S. has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44858727/jensen-huang-in-china-for-talks-as-us-tightens-nvidia-chip-restrictions-report">tightened restrictions </a>on Nvidia&#8217;s chip sales to China. Nvidia&#8217;s CEO Jensen Huang was in Beijing for discussions with Xi Jinping&#8216;s officials and tech leaders about the implications of the U.S.&#8217;s decision to impose further restrictions on its sales in the country.



The Nvidia CEO expressed confidence in China&#8217;s economic outlook and reiterated Nvidia&#8217;s commitment to expanding its presence in the Chinese market, as per the Chinese government. He also emphasized the company&#8217;s intention to actively contribute to fostering economic and trade cooperation between the United States and China.



Interestingly, this week, Nvidia revealed plans to establish AI servers in the U.S. valued at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44799936/nvidia-to-build-500b-ai-infrastructure-in-us-in-the-next-four-years-details">up to $500 billion</a>. President Donald Trump later asserted that his re-election was the driving force behind Nvidia&#8217;s decision.



Gary Ng, senior economist at Natixis, shared with the BBC that the latest developments indicate global technology is becoming more polarized between &#8220;two systems,&#8221; one led by the US and the other by China. &#8220;Tech will be less global in that sense, and it will be subject to more restrictions,&#8221; stated the senior economist.



Meanwhile, Nvidia stock dropped 6.66% over the past five days, while Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) lost 3.79% during the same period. 



<ul>
<li>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/44860334/china-cuts-us-oil-purchases-by-90-boosts-imports-from-canada-to-new-heights" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China Slashes US Oil Imports By 90% Amid Trump Tariffs, Turns To Canada Instead</a></li>
</ul>



Image via Shutterstock



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

Xi Jinping's Minister Urges Nvidia, US Firms To Invest More In China During Meeting With Jensen Huang, Despite Chip Export Curbs

The Symbol SQCC was not found. Here are some similar symbols and popular symbols to consider.

Symbol Similar to: SQCC

Top Gaining Stocks

Notizie

PARTNER/COLLABORATORE

BENZINGA NEL MONDO