La vendita allo scoperto per Vanguard Information Tech ETF dà agli investitori un'idea del grado in cui gli investitori stanno scommettendo sul declino delle azioni di Vanguard Information Tech ETF. I dati relativi alle vendite allo scoperto vengono aggiornati ogni due settimane.

Vanguard Information Tech ETF (ARCA:VGT), Report sulle vendite allo scoperto

Vanguard Information Tech ETF

Vanguard Information Tech ETF - DNQ

Technology

Industrials

Communication Services

Financial Services

Other

Basic Materials

Healthcare

Consumer Cyclical

The fund employs an indexing investment approach designed to track the performance of the MSCI US Investable Market Index/Information Technology 25/50, an index made up of stocks of large, mid-size, and small U.S. companies within the information technology sector, as classified under the Global Industry Classification Standard. The Advisor attempts to replicate the target index by seeking to invest all, or substantially all, of its assets in the stocks that make up the index, in order to hold each stock in approximately the same proportion as its weighting in the index. It is non-diversified.

Microsoft Corp

Apple Inc

Nvidia Corp.

Broadcom Inc

Advanced Micro Devices Inc.

Adobe Inc

Salesforce Inc.

Oracle Corp.

Qualcomm Inc.

Applied Materials, Inc.

Vanguard Information Technology Index Fund ETF

VGTel Inc

On Thursday, the technology sector witnessed a major drop,&nbsp;with the Nasdaq closing 6%&nbsp;lower. This marked the most severe single-day decline for tech stocks in over five years.
What Happened: The sharp fall triggered widespread apprehension regarding the future of the tech sector. Dan Ives, the Global Head of Technology Research at Wedbush Securities, spoke to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Miyrnlfi_10">CNBC </a>and linked the market&#8217;s downfall to the proposed tariffs and their potential effects on global supply chains and consumer costs.
The tech sector, traditionally a favorite among investors, found itself in a vulnerable position due to fears of economic disruption. Ives characterized the situation as &#8220;essentially an economic Armageddon&#8221; if the current tariff proposals, which could impose&nbsp;a 54% duty on Chinese imports, are not revised.
Companies with significant exposure to China, such as Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), and various semiconductor firms, bore the brunt of the sell-off. The Magnificent Seven stocks saw a collective market cap loss of over $1 trillion on Thursday.
Ives underscored the unprecedented uncertainty that has gripped the market, stating, &#8220;This is as nervous as I&#8217;ve seen investors since Covid March 2020.&#8221;
In the run-up to upcoming earnings calls, Ives identified three key factors for investors to watch: 
Firstly, the future of the tariffs is uncertain. Economic Advisor Peter Navarro hinted at possible negotiations, but if the tariffs remain, Ives warned they could reduce demand by 15–20% due to rising costs. Second, the lack of clear guidance from companies due to the &#8216;head-scratching nature of the tariffs&#8217; could exacerbate market jitters. Finally, Ives pointed to specific areas of focus: the AI revolution, data center buildouts, and consumer-facing products like the iPhone.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44636065/bitcoin-ethereum-xrp-dogecoin-dump-on-tariff-news" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin Dump On Tariff News &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Why It Matters: Dan Ives is usually bullish on the potential for technology, however, he has turned cautious as the proposed tariffs, aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing, could instead disrupt&nbsp;supply chains that have been&nbsp;fine-tuned over decades. 
Ives highlighted the gap between policy statements and real-world challenges, warning that moving production entirely to the U.S. could significantly raise costs for tech giants like Apple.
"Talking in front of a microphone in the 202 area code is a lot different than the reality of moving the supply chain."
Despite the current market upheaval, Ives maintains a cautious optimism for the long term, advising investors to look beyond the immediate chaos and consider&nbsp;potential buys if tariff fears&nbsp;ease. 
"You have to look on the other side, assuming some sort of normalized earnings into 2025 and even 2026," he advised, naming Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Apple as potential buys if tariff fears subside.
Vanguard Information Technology Index Fund ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) dropped 7.24%, while the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>) fell 6.82% on Thursday. 
<ul>
<li>Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44640598/xrp-emerges-as-retail-favorite-outpacing-bitcoins-institutional-rally-analyst-explains-how-trajectories-of-the-two-cryptos-differ" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">XRP Emerges As Retail Favorite, Outpacing Bitcoin&#8217;s Institutional Rally: Analyst Unpacks Their Distinct Journeys &#8211; Benzinga</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.

News

Markets

Tech

AAPL

MSFT

NVDA

As Nvidia, Apple And Other Mag 7 Stocks Wipe Out Over $1 Trillion In Investor Wealth On Thursday, Top Analyst Warns Of 'Economic Armageddon' For Tech Sector If Current Tariffs Remain

Investing can feel like walking a tightrope for some, especially if they are not enjoying <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44402198/aggressive-trader-with-nearly-1m-in-play-bets-big-on-market-drop-what-if-we-dont-get-there-reddit-debates-his-high-risk-strategy">high-risk</a> bets. For many investors, the dream is to grow their money steadily and reliably so they won&#8217;t be kept at night worrying about market crashes.
That&#8217;s why so many risk-averse investors turn to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/02/43897884/dividend-investor-making-5-000-per-month-with-632-000-reveals-portfolio-it-takes-time-but-its-doable">dividend</a> assets, be it stocks or ETFs. Dividend-focused holdings offer a tangible return while still providing possible growth in the long run. Still, even within this safer zone of investing, choices can be daunting.
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That is exactly what a Reddit user is faced with. The investor has done his homework, comparing two popular ETFs, Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOO#NYSE">VOO</a>) and Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCHD#NYSE">SCHD</a>), and found that their performance is 97% correlated.
&#8220;After carefully doing a correlation function against SCHD, the results were 97% correlation (same market directions) for the last 5 years. Buying SCHD will double my quarterly income by almost 2x more than VOO. But then again, 3+ years has a higher percentage gain for VOO over SCHD. I know the underlying assets are different between these ETFs and the fee is lower in favor of VOO. What would you do?&#8221; he wrote.
He aims to generate $1,000 per month in dividend income and he's also cautious about locking the funds away in tax-deferred accounts, preferring to have control over his investments. The investor is also holding Global X NASDAQ 100 Covered Call ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QYLD#NASDAQ">QYLD</a>)​ but says it doesn&#8217;t have great growth, so he&#8217;s wondering which of the two ETFs he should go with.
Trending: If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?
The Reddit community has shared insights and advice in the comments, so let&#8217;s analyze them.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">VOO Vs. SCHD: Where to Invest $50,000?</h2>
Why Not Both?
Many Redditors argued that since both ETFs are highly correlated but serve slightly different purposes, splitting the investment between the two makes sense.
&#8220;Split the total investment between both and just enjoy the gains and that you aren&#8217;t putting everything into just one ETF,&#8221; a Reddit user suggested.
A commenter pointed out that investing in both ETFs will secure the poster&#8217;s portfolio because, if one ETF goes down, he has the other as backup.
&#8220;If one sector of the market does poorly, you can rely on the other for growth. If done right, both would still pay in dividends, you&#8217;ll just have good growth overall. Plus, if for whatever reason you need to liquidate the asset in the poor-performing market sector, you&#8217;ll have the backup,&#8221; he said.
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SCHD All The Way
Most commenters in the thread pushed for SCHD as the better choice, especially since the investor mentioned he's focused on generating dividend income.
&#8220;Just go with SCHD. There are YouTube videos out there that cover the long-term results of all these different funds and even compare them. SCHD blows the others away,&#8221; a user wrote.
&#8220;SCHD over VOO any day,&#8221; another suggestion reads.
A Redditor recommended the poster go with VOO if he&#8217;s looking at the total returns, but if he&#8217;s focused on dividends, he should choose SCHD.
&#8220;If the goal is total return, I&#8217;d go with VOO; if the goal is dividend income, I&#8217;d go with SCHD,&#8221; he said.
See Also: Dogecoin millionaires are increasing –<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/dogecoin-millionaires"> investors with $1M+ in DOGE revealed!</a>
Consider Alternative Holdings
While most comments revolved around SCHD and VOO, several Redditors mentioned alternative assets, both high-yield plays and growth-oriented holdings.
&#8220;Have you considered [AG Mortgage Investment Trust (NYSE: MITT] or QYLD? Both these stocks have double-digit dividends,&#8221; a commenter asked.
&#8220;I'd do like 30/40 in VOO or SCHD and the rest in [Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vgt#NYSE">VGT</a>)] or [Vanguard Growth ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vug#NYSE">VUG</a>)],&#8221; a piece of advice reads.
A Redditor suggested selling covered calls rather than investing in VOO and SCHD.
&#8220;I am all in [Microsoft (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/msft#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)] and I have no problems with it. I sell MSFT calls monthly. You&#8217;d probably get better yield going all in on [SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/spy#NYSE">SPY</a>)] and writing calls there rather than splitting between VOO and SCHD,&#8221; he said.
Sharing his favorite assets to buy, this commenter highlighted the dividend income he receives from his holdings.
&#8220;I have $50,000 in QYLD. The monthly dividend is over $500 every single month. The bulk and rest of my s&#8211;t is in [​Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vti#NYSE">VTI</a>)]. Then, I'm buying [Realty Income Corporation (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/o#NYSE">O</a>)], [Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qqq#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>)], VUG, [JPMorgan Equity Premium Income ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/jepi#NYSE">JEPI</a>)], [iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/mtum#NYSE">MTUM</a>)], [Financial Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/xlf#NYSE">XLF</a>)], [Kinder Morgan (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/kmi#NYSE">KMI</a>)] (since it dropped so much, how could I not?), [Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/amd#NASDAQ">AMD</a>)], and [Apple (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/aapl#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)],&#8221; he wrote.
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</ul>

Personal Finance

JEPI

MTUM

QYLD

SCHD

Reddit In Chaos As Investor With $50K Faces Huge ETF Dilemma – 'I Prefer A Nice Dividend With Overall Steady Growth,' But Is VOO The Answer?

In today&#8217;s fast-paced world, many want to build wealth and achieve long-term financial <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44146342/charlie-munger-said-he-was-passionate-about-getting-rich-but-not-because-i-wanted-ferraris-i-wanted-the-independence">independence</a>. Countless people dream of financially securing their future, and for many, that path is through investments in the stock market.
Yet, the path to financial independence is rarely straightforward, especially for those starting to invest later in life and have little to no knowledge of the <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44287485/peter-lynch-said-theres-always-something-to-worry-about-but-success-in-the-stock-market-depends-on-your-stomach-not-the-brain">stock market</a>, as is the case of one Reddit user.
The individual, a 38-year-old, shared his concerns in a Reddit community of investors. He said that he recently came across a substantial amount of money–$750,000 in cash–but has no other assets such as a house, no pension, and no investments.
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The poster is focused on long-term growth and is seeking advice on how to invest his newly acquired money wisely. He is also cautious about the current market volatility and is wondering whether he should wait a few weeks before he starts investing, whether to go for a dollar-cost average approach and if other options beyond ETFs would suit his goals.
&#8220;I&#8217;m 38 years old with newly acquired $750,000 in cash. How should I invest? My goal is long-term growth. Should I wait a few more weeks? When [dollar-cost averaging]–what amounts and frequency should I shoot for? And advice for investments beyond ETFs given the volatility at the moment?&#8221; he asked.
Trending: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.
The Reddit community has responded to the 38-year-old&#8217;s post with insights and advice, so let&#8217;s dive deeper into the comments to find out what the community has suggested.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Invest $750,000? Reddit Community Shares Insights</h2>
Use Dollar-Cost Averaging and Invest in ETFs
One of the most common suggestions was to use dollar-cost averaging to invest in ETFs, especially those tracking global and U.S. markets.
&#8220;Definitely [dollar-cost averaging] over a year or two. You should buy world ETFs, U.S. ETFs, and 20% bonds,&#8221; a comment says.
One Redditor suggested specific ETFs he thinks would grow the poster&#8217;s money in the long run.
&#8220;[Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/voo#NYSE">VOO</a>)] or [Vanguard S&amp;P 500 Growth ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/voog#NYSE">VOOG</a>)], [Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vgt#NYSE">VGT</a>)] or [Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/xlk#NYSE">XLK</a>)], [Vanguard Total World Stock ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vt#NYSE">VT</a>)] or [Vanguard Total International Stock ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vxus#NASDAQ">VXUS</a>)],&#8221; he said.
A commenter pointed out he has a more structured approach to dollar-cost averaging with a focus on a few particular ETFs.
&#8220;Looking forward to the responses as I'm currently sitting in [iShares 0-3 Month Treasury Bond ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/sgov#NYSE">SGOV</a>)]. My plan is to ladder into [iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ibit#NYSE">IBIT</a>)], VT, and VOO. I will do bi-weekly buys starting in June,&#8221; he wrote.
A Reddit user suggested a mix of global equity exposure and bonds for a diversified portfolio.
&#8220;VT 70%, [Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/bnd#NASDAQ">BND</a>)] 30%. Increase BND 10% for each 10 years of your age from now on. Good luck to you,&#8221; the user said.
&#8220;VT, [Schwab US Dividend Equity ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/schd#NYSE">SCHD</a>)], [iShares Core Dividend Growth ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/dgro#NYSE">DGRO</a>)], [Invesco NASDAQ 100 ETF (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/qqqm#NASDAQ">QQQM</a>)], [JPMorgan Nasdaq Equity Premium Income ETF (NASDAQ: JEPQ]. SGOV or [Vanguard Treasury Money Market Fund (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vusxx#NASDAQ">VUSXX</a>)] for other opportunities,&#8221; a comment reads.
One user mentioned a global stock market ETF but agreed that VXUS is also a good choice.
&#8220;I like [SPDR Portfolio MSCI Global Stock Market ETF (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/spgm#NYSE">SPGM</a>)], but VXUS is good as well,&#8221; a comment reads.
See Also: If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?
Don&#8217;t Time the Market
Many Redditors cautioned against market timing, with some even predicting what they think the new investor will do after investing.
&#8220;Imagine hoarding $750,000 during a 15-year bull market, to only now considering investing it. The market is guaranteed to drop 20% starting the day after the OP invests it. And someone new to investing will get emotional about the 20% drop and sell at the bottom, where it will immediately go on a 5-year bull run again,&#8221; a commenter wrote.
&#8220;Man, you got $750,000 and you didn't put a cent of that into the S&amp;P 500 over the last 5 years. I can see the S&amp;P 500 being very choppy over the next four years with Trump. If I were honestly you, I would keep that money in a savings bank account. And invest new money from my wages into the S&amp;P 500, bonds ETF, and income ETFs,&#8221; another comment says.
Replying to the above user, a Redditor reminded him that the poster didn&#8217;t have the money for long.
&#8220;Sounds like he just came into the $750,000 recently,&#8221; he said.
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DGRO

IBIT

QQQM

SGOV

SPGM

VOOG

VUSXX

VXUS

$750K In Cash But No Assets Or Pension – 38-Year-Old Asks: 'My Goal Is Long-Term Growth. How Should I Invest?' Reddit Is Divided

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/02/43827291/exclusive-will-trumps-tariffs-hurt-or-help-stock-market-59-say-this">Tariffs</a>, elevated mortgage rates, and the cost of maintaining a home amid soaring insurance and energy costs have caused pessimism amongst the home builders tasked with adding housing inventory.
The information comes from the National Association of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43246599/bofa-downgrades-dr-horton-and-smith-douglas-citing-cost-pressures-and-weak-roe-outlook">Home Builders</a><a href="https://www.nahb.org/news-and-economics/housing-economics/indices/housing-market-index"> NAHB</a>/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index, which tracks builders&#8217; confidence in single-family homes based on a monthly survey. February marked the lowest confidence level in five months.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tariffs</h2>
According to NAHB,<a href="https://www.nahb.org/advocacy/top-priorities/material-costs/how-tariffs-impact-home-building"> 7%</a> of all goods used in new residential construction originate from a foreign nation. &#8220;With 32% of appliances and 30% of softwood lumber coming from international trade, uncertainty over the scale and scope of tariffs has builders further concerned about costs,&#8221; NAHB Chief Economist Robert Dietz said on its website.
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NAHB Chairman Carl Harris<a href="https://www.nahb.org/-/media/NAHB/advocacy/docs/letter-to-president-potential-tariffs-013125.pdf?rev=4f33c6137e9846b1866e4692241d2a1d&amp;hash=C2AEFB98FFB519145B3C4DF50296B2B8"> sent a letter</a> to President Donald Trump urging him to exempt &#8220;critical construction materials&#8221; from his tariff policies.
&#8220;Imposing additional tariffs on these imports will lead to higher material costs, which will ultimately be passed on to home buyers in the form of increased housing prices,&#8221; he said in the letter dated Jan. 31.
<a href="https://www.corelogic.com/intelligence/will-trump-tariffs-harm-home-affordability/#framing-affordability">CoreLogic</a>, a real-estate data company, estimates that the higher costs of building materials could add between $17,000 and $22,000 to the cost of building an averagely priced newly constructed home, which is currently about $422,000.
Trending: Unlock the hidden potential of commercial real estate —<a href="https://equitymultiple.com/benzinga?invite=benzinga&amp;utm_campaign=product-promotion-earn&amp;utm_source=yahooFinance&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_content=unlockboost-yahoo"> This platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Interest Rates</h2>
Lower interest rates could have made the Trump tariffs easier to digest. However, despite optimism last year for a series of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43319060/first-rate-cut-in-june-if-at-all-in-2025-economist-says-as-federal-reserve-holds-rates-steady">interest rate cuts</a>, stubborn inflation has caused the Fed to keep rates where they are, which is currently just below 7%, too high to move the needle on home buying.&nbsp;
&#8220;It will take people longer to buy homes as they wrestle with affordability,&#8221; Holden Lewis, home and mortgage expert at NerdWallet told<a href="https://www.marketwatch.com/picks/mortgage-rates-will-pull-back-4-pros-predict-where-mortgage-rates-will-go-in-february-2025-5e015a1c"> MarketWatch</a>. &#8220;As homes linger on the market, the inventory of for-sale homes will keep rising. This increase in supply will diminish upward pressure on prices. Home prices will rise this spring, but not as swiftly as they rose in the past.&#8221;
See Also: Commercial real estate has historically outperformed the stock market, and<a href="https://equitymultiple.com/benzinga?invite=benzinga&amp;utm_campaign=product-promotion-earn&amp;utm_source=yahooFinance&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_content=stockmarket-yahoo"> this platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate with as little as $5,000 offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Insurance</h2>
Compounding the effect of tariffs and interest rates is the soaring cost of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43728496/with-insurance-maintenance-costs-and-rising-home-prices-suze-orman-says-its-ok-to-just-rent">homeowners insurance</a>, particularly in disaster-prone states, as most recently seen with the LA wildfires. According to<a href="https://home.treasury.gov/system/files/311/Analyses_of_US_Homeowners_Insurance_Markets_2018-2022_Climate-Related_Risks_and_Other_Factors_0.pdf"> figures</a> released by the US Treasury Department for 2018-2022, insurance premiums have risen sharply across the country, with people living in the greatest climate-driven risks experiencing the steepest rises. Those in the top 20% of riskiest places for such perils paid, on average, 82% more than those in the 20% lowest climate risk zip codes.&nbsp;
This year,<a href="https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/homeowners-insurance/homeowners-insurance-cost/"> Bankrate</a> showed that the national average cost of home insurance is $2,258 per year for a policy with a $300,000 dwelling limit. —amounting to about $188 per month, a<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/select/homeowners-insurance-skyrocketing-how-to-lower-premium/"> marked increase</a> on the preceding two years.
The<a href="https://www.wsj.com/economy/housing/home-insurance-property-tax-vs-mortgage-cost-43ab76ed"> Wall Street Journal</a> calculated that insurance and taxes make up more than half of the monthly mortgage payment for 9% of single-family mortgages, up from less than 4% at the end of 2014. Adding tariffs and increased construction and home prices to the mix makes homeownership more difficult than ever for many Americans.
Wondering if your investments can get you to a $5,000,000 nest egg? Speak to a financial advisor today.<a href="https://smartasset.com/retirement/find-a-financial-planner?utm_source=benzinga&amp;utm_campaign=ben&amp;utm_content=y2_5MilNestEgg"> SmartAsset&#8217;s free tool matches you up with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost</a> to decide which one is right for you.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Looking For Higher-Yield Opportunities In A Shifting Market?</h2>
The changing interest rate environment has created an incredible opportunity for income-seeking investors to earn massive yields, but not through dividend stocks… Certain private market real estate investments are giving retail investors the opportunity to capitalize on these high-yield opportunities and Benzinga has identified <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/benzingas-favorite-high-yield-investments">some of the most attractive options for you to consider</a>.&nbsp;
For instance, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/go/equitymultiple-yf">Ascent Income Fund</a> from EquityMultiple targets stable income from senior commercial real estate debt positions and has a historical distribution yield of 12.1% backed by real assets. With payment priority and flexible liquidity options, the Ascent Income Fund is a cornerstone investment vehicle for income-focused investors. First-time investors with EquityMultiple can now invest in the Ascent Income Fund with a reduced minimum of just $5,000. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/go/equitymultiple-yf">Benzinga Readers: Earn a 1% return boost on your first EquityMultiple investment when you sign up here (accredited investors only)</a>.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to take advantage of high-yield investments while rates are high. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/benzingas-favorite-high-yield-investments">Check out Benzinga's favorite high-yield offerings.</a>&nbsp;

Real Estate

JEPQ

SCHG

SPYD

Tariffs, Mortgage Rates, And High Housing Costs Have Caused Builders To Change Strategy On New Home Construction

Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) is one stock that has skyrocketed from its beginning stages, leaving many wishing they got in on it from the start. One woman recently called "The Ramsey Show" for financial advice regarding her Tesla stock, which grew to an astonishing amount from her initial investment.&nbsp;
Her dilemma? Whether to cash out and pay off her mortgage or hold onto the stock because, in her words, "Nobody knows what Tesla&#8217;s capable of."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From $1,000 to $380,000 in Tesla Stock</h2>
The caller explained that she invested $1,000 in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43686887/teslas-stock-climbs-nearly-3-in-thursday-pre-market-as-analyst-predicts-growth-in-ev-ai-and-robotics">Tesla stock</a> in 2011, in the company's early stages. Over the years, without adding any additional money to her investment, the stock surged, reaching upwards of $380,000. She and her family now owe $288,000 on their home and are weighing the benefits of selling the stock to become mortgage-free.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
<li>‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">You can invest today for just $0.26/share with a $1000 minimum.</a></li>
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Financial expert <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/01/43276105/trumps-tax-plan-could-slash-social-security-benefits-33-by-2035-ramsey-show-host-george-kamel-weighs-in">George Kamel</a>, a host on "The Ramsey Show," was impressed by the caller's success. "What?" he reacted in shock, before confirming that she had truly turned just $1,000 into hundreds of thousands of dollars without adding more funds to the investment.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Risks of Holding a Single Stock</h2>
While acknowledging the incredible return, Kamel advised the caller to be cautious. He emphasized the risks associated with keeping such a large portion of wealth in a single stock, even one as well-known as Tesla. "As soon as you can get that house paid off and get out of a single stock, the better," he said.
His advice aligns with common financial principles: diversifying investments can help protect against market downturns. Tesla's stock, like any other, is subject to volatility. Holding onto the stock means exposure to potential price swings that could reduce the value of her gains.
Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Role of Taxes in the Decision</h2>
One of the biggest factors to consider in selling such a large stock position is the tax implication. Kamel advised the caller to consult a tax professional before making any moves. Since the stock's value has increased significantly since she bought it, selling would trigger <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43669470/im-so-sorry-dave-ramsey-left-speechless-after-hearing-the-capital-gains-tax-a-canadian-restaurant-owner-would-owe-if-he-sold-his-business">capital gains taxes</a>. Depending on her income and how long she has held the stock, the tax bill could be substantial.
Instead of selling all at once, Kamel suggested an alternative approach: selling off portions of the stock gradually over a few years. This strategy could help reduce the overall tax burden by spreading the gains across multiple tax years, potentially keeping her in a lower tax bracket.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can Her Income Cover the Mortgage Instead?</h2>
Another consideration is the caller's household income. She shared that her family is earning $275,000 annually, which is a strong financial position. Kamel's advice implies that, with such a high income, they may be able to aggressively pay down the mortgage without relying entirely on the Tesla stock sale.
See Also: If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Should She Do?</h2>
Ultimately, the decision rests on her financial goals and risk tolerance. Paying off the mortgage would provide security and eliminate monthly payments, but holding onto the stock could yield further gains—though with added risk. Consulting a financial and tax professional could help her determine the best course of action based on her specific situation.
For investors who find themselves in a similar position, the key takeaway is clear: while big gains in the stock market can be life-changing, careful planning is essential to ensure those gains translate into lasting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/02/36957443/the-majority-of-americans-dont-feel-financially-secure-and-believe-they-need-to-earn-233-000-a-y">financial stability</a>.
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<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>
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MSTY

NVDY

PLTR

SMCI

TSLA

Should She Cash Out? Woman Who Turned $1,000 Into $380,000 In Tesla Stock Asks The Ramsey Show For Guidance

Following Microsoft&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) second-quarter fiscal 2025 earnings report, ETFs with substantial allocations to the software giant have come <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43320124/microsoft-shares-slide-after-q2-results-cloud-revenue-misses-expectations-details">into the spotlight</a>. 
Despite Microsoft <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43320124/microsoft-shares-slide-after-q2-results-cloud-revenue-misses-expectations-details">beating earnings and revenue estimates</a>, concerns over slowing cloud growth led to a sharp 6% drop in the company&#8217;s shares at market close on Jan. 30. However, the stock has slightly pared the loss as of writing on Jan. 31. Investors are now carefully looking at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">ETFs heavily weighted in Microsoft</a> to assess potential market implications.
Several ETFs with double-digit exposure to Microsoft have gained attention. Some of the most prominent funds include:
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">MSCI Information Technology Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTEC#NYSE">FTEC</a>)</h1>
• Tracks the MSCI USA IMI Information Technology Index.
• Microsoft holds a 16.5% allocation.
• AUM stands at $11.47 billion.
• Charges an expense ratio of 0.08%.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>)</h1>
• Provides exposure to the information technology sector of the U.S. equity market.
• Microsoft accounts for about 16.65% of total holdings.
• AUM stands at $74.4 billion.
• Charges an expense ratio of 0.10%.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">T-Rex 2X Long Microsoft Daily Target ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFX#BATS">MSFX</a>)</h1>
• Seeks to amplify Microsoft&#8217;s daily performance by 200%.
• Charges 1.05% in annual fees.
• Has an asset base of $7.22 million
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">iShares U.S. Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYW#NYSE">IYW</a>)</h1>
• Provides exposure to U.S. electronics, software and hardware companies. Microsoft holds the second-largest position at 15.15%.
• Tracks the Russell 1000 Technology RIC 22.5/45 Capped Index.
• Assets under management (AUM) stand at $18.27 billion.
• Charges 0.4% in fees.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Technology (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>)</h1>
• Microsoft holds 21.5% position among its components.
• Charges an expense ratio of 0.09%.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43381133/chinas-deepseek-r1-lands-on-microsoft-azure-and-awsthe-same-model-that-shook-silicon-valley">China&#8217;s DeepSeek-R1 Lands On Microsoft Azure And AWS — The Same Model That Shook Silicon Valley</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Microsoft&#8217;s Q2 Earnings Highlights</h1>
Microsoft reported earnings per share of $3.23, surpassing the $3.11 consensus estimate and improving from the prior-year earnings of $2.93 per share. Revenue climbed 12% year-over-year to $69.6 billion, slightly ahead of the consensus estimate of $68.70 billion.
Revenue from the Intelligent Cloud segment rose 19% year-over-year to $25.54 billion, with Office 365 Commercial and Dynamics 365 registering sales growth of 16% and 19%, respectively. The Azure cloud computing platform reported a 31% year-over-year revenue increase, marking a slowdown from 33% in the previous quarter.
Despite exceeding Wall Street expectations in the second quarter, Microsoft&#8217;s forecast for slower cloud growth raised concerns among investors, leading to a post-earnings decline in its stock price.
It is important to note that Microsoft has guided revenue growth across key segments for the fiscal third quarter. The company expects:
 • Productivity and Business Processes revenue between $29.4 billion and $29.7 billion, an 11%-12% growth (constant currency) year-over-year.
• Office Consumer and Cloud Services are anticipated to grow in the mid-to-high single digits, LinkedIn in the low-to-mid single digits, and Dynamics in the mid-teens. 
• Intelligent Cloud revenue is forecasted between $25.9 billion and $26.2 billion, with Azure growing 31%-32% at constant currency. 
• Enterprise Services revenue is expected to grow in the low-to-mid single digits, while Server product revenue is projected to decline in the mid-single digits.
Additionally, the company&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/43327008/microsofts-13-billion-run-rate-and-openai-azure-deal-spark-surge-in-enterprise-demand-for-ai-solutions-just-first-tranche-of-future-growth-potential">continued investment in AI and data center expansion</a> signals its long-term growth strategy.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Sector ETFs

ETFs

BCHP

FTEC

iShares Dow Jones US Technology Sector Index Fund

ETF Opportunities Trust T-Rex 2X Long Microsoft Daily Target ETF

MSFX

5 ETFs To Watch During Microsoft's Post-Earnings Drop

Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) announced <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/01/g43266690/broadcom-delivers-industrys-first-quantum-resistant-network-encryption-enabling-real-time-ransomwa" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emulex Secure Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapters (HBA)</a> on Wednesday. This cost-effective, easy-to-manage solution encrypts all data as it moves between servers and storage.
The cost of ransomware attacks continues to rise, with attacks in 2024 costing an average of $5.37 million per attack.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/price-target/25/01/43110913/apples-iphone-dependence-remains-but-services-wearables-offer-growth-potential-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple&#8217;s iPhone Dependence Remains, But Services, Wearables Offer Growth Potential: Analyst</a>
Upcoming generative AI and quantum computers magnify the risk if data is not encrypted at all points in the data center, including the network.
To address these cybersecurity issues, governments have responded with mandates that require enterprises to modernize their IT infrastructures with post-quantum cryptographic encryption algorithms and zero-trust architecture.
Today, data centers can deploy application encryption or network encryption to protect their data.
Network encryption offers several advantages over application-based encryption, including preserving storage array services.
Network encryption enables real-time ransomware detection, while application-based encryption hides ransomware attacks.
Reportedly, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41325429/chinese-researchers-use-quantum-computers-to-reportedly-crack-rsa-encryption-raising-alarms-in-cyber" rel="noreferrer noopener">quantum computers can</a> threaten data security and privacy for various enterprises.
Broadcom stock surged over 70% in the last 12 months, joining Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) in the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43191472/broadcom-powers-solidigms-high-capacity-ssds-key-driver-for-ai-and-data-intensive-growth" rel="noreferrer noopener">trillion-dollar market cap</a> club in 2024.
Needham&#8217;s N. Quinn Bolton projected upside for Broadcom from growth in XPUs.
JPMorgan&#8217;s Harlan Sur expects Broadcom <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/01/43266292/broadcom-marvell-could-thrive-from-deepseeks-ai-breakthrough" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">to gain from</a> DeepSeek&#8217;s emergence as hyperscalers and cloud providers continue to push for greater AI capabilities, with cost and power performance becoming critical differentiators.
Investors can gain exposure to Broadcom through Vanguard Div Appreciation ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VIG#NYSE">VIG</a>) and Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>).
Price Actions:&nbsp;AVGO stock traded higher by 1.86% at $211.22 premarket at the last check on Wednesday.
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Photo: Shutterstock

AVGO

Broadcom Launches Secure Fibre Channel HBA, Boosting Data Encryption To Combat Rising Cyber Threats

Microsoft&nbsp;Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) could <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42890164/microsoft-plans-to-slash-jobs-again-when-people-are-not-performing-we-take-the-appropriate-action" rel="noreferrer noopener">pause hiring in</a> part of its consulting business in the US, CNBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/14/microsoft-pauses-hiring-in-us-consulting-unit-memo-says.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> from an internal memo.&nbsp;
The company expects the cuts to affect less than 1% of its workforce.
Rival tech companies — Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google, Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) — have slashed workforces, citing cost cuts to tackle the pandemic-induced slowdown, efficiency drive, artificial intelligence expansion drive, and more.
The memo also urged employees to swap travel for internal meetings and remote sessions. Additionally, executives must authorize trips to customers&#8217; sites to justify the spending. The group looks to slash its marketing and nonbillable external resource spending by 35%.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42974632/us-listed-chinese-stocks-rally-on-strong-trade-data-central-bank-support-goldman-forecasts-20-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Listed Chinese Stocks Rally on Strong Trade Data, Central Bank Support, Goldman Forecasts 20% Growth</a>
The consulting division&#8217;s growth lagged behind Microsoft&#8217;s productivity software subscriptions and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41636770/microsoft-q1-earnings-highlights-ai-driven-transformation-is-changing-work-company-beats-revenue-ep" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Azure cloud computing businesses</a>.
Reportedly, in fiscal 2025, Microsoft&nbsp;committed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42980720/microsoft-taps-meta-veteran-to-lead-new-coreai-division-plans-shift-from-openai-dependence">$80 billion&nbsp;to</a> its AI ambitions including developing data centers to train&nbsp;AI models. Also, this week, the company launched the CoreAI division to streamline AI tools and build AI apps.
The Redmond, Washington-based company laid off 10,000 employees in early 2023, implying 4%-5% of its workforce. In January 2024, after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36783057/microsofts-major-gaming-shake-up-1-900-layoffs-and-leadership-changes-in-post-acquisition-strategy">completing the Activision Blizzard acquisition</a>, Microsoft&#8217;s gaming unit cut 1,900 jobs.
In 2023, Google <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/11/36020949/big-tech-prioritize-cost-control-and-ai-scaling-back-workforce-despite-business-growth" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">slashed 12,000 jobs</a>, affecting ~6% of its workforce. Since November 2022, Meta has claimed to have laid off 21,000 employees, implying 25% of its workforce. 
Amazon cut 27,000 roles in 2023. The sector let go of 141,516 employees in the first half of 2023 compared with about 6,000 a year ago, according to Challenger, Gray &amp; Christmas.
Microsoft stock gained close to 7% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) and SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Technology (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>).
Price Action: Microsoft stock is up 0.04% at $415.84 premarket at last check Wednesday.
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Image: Shutterstock

Media

AMZN

GOOG

GOOGL

Microsoft To Cut Costs, Pause Hiring In US Consulting, Tighten Spending

On Monday, Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/microsoft" rel="noreferrer noopener">announced the creation</a> of a new engineering organization called CoreAI—Platform and Tools.
This new <a href="https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2025/01/13/introducing-core-ai-platform-and-tools/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">division </a>will bring together the Dev Div, AI Platform, and some key teams from the Office of the CTO (AI Supercomputer, AI Agentic Runtimes, and Engineering Thrive) to build the end-to-end Copilot and AI stack for its customers to build and run AI apps and agents. The group will also build out GitHub Copilot.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/10/41428765/microsoft-salesforce-battle-heats-up-as-ai-agent-technology-takes-center-stage" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microsoft, Salesforce Battle Heats Up As AI Agent Technology Takes Center Stage</a>
Former Meta Platforms Inc executive Jay Parikh will lead this group as EVP of CoreAI—Platform and Tools.
In October 2024, Microsoft appointed Parikh to its senior leadership <a href="https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2024/10/31/microsoft-names-jay-parikh-as-a-member-of-the-senior-leadership-team/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">team</a>, reporting to Satya Nadella. Parikh previously served as Facebook&#8217;s global head of engineering.
Recently, Microsoft listed <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/01/42803700/microsoft-highlights-6-ai-trends-for-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">six AI trends</a> for 2025, including models with advanced reasoning capabilities like OpenAI o1, AI-powered agents like Microsoft 365 Copilot, expecting Copilot to assist users in their daily lives, AI-enabling advancements in scientific research, improved energy efficiency in data centers and AI safety.
In fiscal 2025, Microsoft <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42801720/microsoft-to-invest-80-billion-in-ai-data-centers-for-fiscal-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">earmarked $80 billion</a> to develop data centers to train&nbsp;AI models and&nbsp;deploy AI and cloud-based applications.
Prior reports indicated Microsoft&nbsp;is planning to&nbsp;reduce its dependence on OpenAI by integrating internal and third-party AI models into its Microsoft 365 Copilot product.
BofA Securities noted Microsoft is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41389192/microsoft-azure-office-365-and-gaming-to-drive-low-double-digit-growth-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">well positioned to</a> generate sustained low double-digit growth in the coming 3-5 years, led by the Azure cloud infrastructure platform, Office 365 productivity suite, and more profitable Games and Game Pass revenue in Xbox.
Goldman Sachs described Microsoft as a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/42096407/microsoft-one-of-the-most-compelling-investment-opportunities-says-goldman-sachs" rel="noreferrer noopener">compelling investment opportunity</a> in the tech space, backed by its moat across the cloud stack and growing momentum in AI.
Microsoft&nbsp;stock gained 7% in the last 12 months. In October 2024, the company reported <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/10/41636770/microsoft-q1-earnings-highlights-ai-driven-transformation-is-changing-work-company-beats-revenue-ep" rel="noreferrer noopener">first-quarter revenue</a> of $65.60 billion, up 16%, above the Street consensus of $64.51 billion. EPS of $3.30 beat the Street consensus of $3.09. Intelligent Cloud grew by 20% to $24.1 billion.
Investors can gain exposure to Microsoft through Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) and SPDR Select Sector Fund &#8211; Technology (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>).
Price Action:&nbsp;MSFT stock is down 0.42% at $415.44 at last check Tuesday.
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</ul>
Image via Shutterstock.

Equities

Large Cap

General

Microsoft Launches CoreAI Division: Ex-Meta Exec To Supercharge Copilot And AI Innovations

President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that the Emirati real estate development firm DAMAC Properties will invest $20 billion to construct data centers in the U.S. to meet the growing needs of hyperscale customers. The race for dominance in artificial intelligence hit an inflection point as Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) revealed its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42801720/microsoft-to-invest-80-billion-in-ai-data-centers-for-fiscal-2025">$80 billion investment plan</a> to build AI-driven data centers in fiscal 2025, with special regional focus on the U.S.
These developments serve as a green light for investors looking to invest in this theme. Risk-averse investors who are interested in cashing in on this opportunity, but are reluctant to choose individual stocks can choose from a plethora of ETFs tied to data center and digital infrastructure stocks. Here we name 3 such ETFs, which carry stocks of digital infrastructure providers like Microsoft and are poised to mirror the gains of the digital infrastructure industry.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42806852/microsoft-pauses-construction-on-33-billion-mount-pleasant-data-center-project-cites-technology-changes-and-design-re-evaluation">Microsoft Pauses Construction On $3.3 Billion Data Center Expected To Be Used By ChatGPT-Parent OpenAI For Massive Super Computer</a>
Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>), with a low expense ratio of only 0.10% and $98 billion under management, holds the maximum position in Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) with a 16.19% current weightage. Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Microsoft are right behind, enjoying weightage of 15.42% and 13.05% of the fund&#8217;s total allocation, respectively.
iShares U.S. Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYW#NYSE">IYW</a>) has $20.5 billion funds under management and charges an expense ratio of 0.39%. It derives its allocation strategies from the Russell 1000 Technology RIC 22.5/45 Capped Index. Nvidia (15.59%), Apple (15.57) and Microsoft (14.16%) take up the three biggest pieces of the pie. 
Global X Data Center REITs &amp; Digital Infrastructure ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VPN#NASDAQ">VPN</a>) focuses exclusively on companies developing and operating data centers. Microsoft and Apple might not be included in the fund currently, but compelling stocks like Equinix (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQUIX#NASDAQ">EQUIX</a>), Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) enjoy a place in the fund&#8217;s portfolio. Expense ratio that the fund management charges is 0.50%.
Some Notes On Major Fund Holdings
Data centers run by Apple boast unique design features to support energy conservation and have been running on 100% renewable energy since 2014. Nvidia, on the other hand, is expected to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42269031/nvidias-blackwell-liquid-cooling-revolution-fuels-ai-growth">ramp up production</a> of liquid-cooled GB200 server racks in the current quarter.
Data center REIT Equinix recently acquired BT's data center business in Ireland. Advanced Micro&#8217;s aMI300 product line, featuring high-performance GPU accelerators, is expected to rake in more than $5 billion in revenue for 2024, according to Dataconomy.
Parting Thoughts
Digital infrastructure is the backbone of modern technology. From AI and cloud computing to blockchain and 5G, the global economy relies on robust data centers to keep pace with innovation. A Research And Markets study shows that the Data Center services market, which grew from $56.65 billion in 2023 to $62.23 billion in 2024, is likely to witness a CAGR of 9.99%, hitting $110.34 billion by 2030. Whether it's leveraging Microsoft-heavy funds like VGT or targeting niche players through VPN, investors have a range of tools to capitalize on this transformative megatrend.
See Next: 
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/01/42859212/rocket-lab-surge-sparks-renewed-interest-in-space-focused-etfs-3-funds-in-focus">Rocket Lab Surge Sparks Renewed Interest In Space-Focused ETFs: 3 Funds In Focus</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

EQUIX

Global X Data Center REITs & Digital Infrastructure ETF

3 Digital Infrastructure ETFs In Focus As Trump Reveals Billion-Dollar Data Center Construction Plan

Apple Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) upcoming switch to in-house <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ai-chips" rel="noreferrer noopener">chips for</a> Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections from 2025 will likely impact its partner&nbsp;Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>).
The Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chips will enable Apple devices to go online via wireless networks, pair with headphones, and more.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) manufactured Proxima, which will power Apple&#8217;s first products in 2025, Bloomberg <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-12-12/apple-nears-switch-to-in-house-bluetooth-and-wi-fi-chip-for-iphone-home?sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> familiar sources.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42436800/stmicroelectronics-and-qualcomm-launch-new-iot-module-to-simplify-wireless-connectivity" rel="noreferrer noopener">STMicroelectronics and Qualcomm Launch New IoT Module to Simplify Wireless Connectivity</a>
Apple is developing an end-to-end wireless approach that is integrated with its other components. This will give it an edge in connecting devices to cellular networks and Wi-Fi hubs, paving the way for new device formats.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/13063810/newplot-11.png" alt="" class="wp-image-691115" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/13063810/newplot-11.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/13063810/newplot-11-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
According to the report, Apple&#8217;s component will be compatible with the Wi-Fi 6E standard.
Apple will launch the combined Wi-Fi and Bluetooth chip in 2025 under its new home devices, including refreshed TV set-top box and HomePod mini smart speaker versions.
Apple aims to introduce the components to iPhones in 2025 and iPads and Macs by 2026. However, Broadcom will still provide the radio frequency filter for modems.
Reportedly, Apple tapped Broadcom to develop a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/12/42439155/broadcom-stock-jumps-on-apple-ai-chip-report-whats-going-on" rel="noreferrer noopener">server chip designed</a> for AI tasks to help meet the computing demands of its new AI features.
Prior reports indicated that the iPhone company had worked on its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/05/38680360/apples-secret-project-and-bold-move-towards-in-house-ai-chips-could-this-be-a-threat-to-nvidia" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Chips in Data Center</a> project for several years. This project focused on developing AI inference, an area dominated by Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>). The company also tapped Taiwan Semiconductor for the chip&#8217;s design and production.
Wedbush&#8217;s Dan Ives expects Apple to reach a $4 trillion market cap by early 2025 as consumers&nbsp;resonate with the AI revolution.
Apple stock surged 34% year-to-date. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) and Fidelity MSCI Information Technology Index ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTEC#NYSE">FTEC</a>).
Price Action: AAPL stock is down 0.48% at $246.76 at the last check on Friday.
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</ul>
Photo via Apple

Apple's 2025 Chip Transition Targets New Wireless Edge, Broadcom To Retain Key Role

While the S&amp;P 500 Index continues its post-election surge, breaking through key resistance levels, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/nasdaq-100">the NASDAQ 100</a> is struggling to keep up.
This catch-up is prompting JPMorgan analyst Jason Hunter to ask: Is this a shift in market leadership or a temporary pause for the tech-heavy index?
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">S&amp;P 500 Breaks Out, NASDAQ 100 Stalls</h1>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="794" height="464" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12121428/Screenshot-2024-11-12-at-10.44.09-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-643450" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12121428/Screenshot-2024-11-12-at-10.44.09-PM.png 794w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12121428/Screenshot-2024-11-12-at-10.44.09-PM-300x175.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12121428/Screenshot-2024-11-12-at-10.44.09-PM-768x449.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 794px) 100vw, 794px" /></figure>
After the S&amp;P 500 re-accelerated through April's channel resistance and the 5850-5878 highs post-election, the index remains firmly bullish, with key support holding in the 5600s. The next resistance levels are now pegged at 6166 and 6194. Meanwhile, the NASDAQ 100 has faced a roadblock, unable to surpass its August rebound high. 
Hunter highlights that despite a broad market rally, the NASDAQ has underperformed, suggesting a potential leadership shift away from tech.
This divergence between the two indices is critical. If the NASDAQ 100 fails to break through its recent range, it would further support the idea that a regime change is in the cards — one where sectors outside of tech, like communication services, could be driving the market forward.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/24/10/41214202/ishares-semiconductor-etf-soxx-approaching-death-cross-despite-recent-gains-should-inves">iShares Semiconductor ETF (SOXX) Approaches Death Cross Despite Recent Gains: Should Investors Worry?</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Communication Services Steals The Spotlight</h1>
Interestingly, while the NASDAQ 100 as a whole struggles, the Communication Services sector has been leading the charge in the index's breakout. Good news for investors in the iShares U.S. Telecommunications ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IYZ#NYSE">IYZ</a>) and the SPDR S&amp;P Telecom ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XTL#NYSE">XTL</a>)
Tech and semiconductor stocks have lagged, clustered just below resistance. Relevant for investors in the Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>), the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>), the Invesco QQQ Trust Series I (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) and the Invesco NASDAQ 100 ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQM#NASDAQ">QQQM</a>).
Hunter's outlook suggests that in the coming weeks these hardware-oriented stocks may get "dragged higher" if the broader market rally continues. The question remains: Will they catch up, or will they continue to underperform as the rally unfolds?
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Semiconductor Struggles: A Key Test For Tech's Future</h1>
Semiconductors, once at the heart of tech's dominance, have been particularly sluggish. The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index (SOX) has faced stiff resistance at the 5397 July peak and the 5537 78.6% retracement level.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="794" height="464" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12122734/Screenshot-2024-11-12-at-10.57.21-PM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-643479" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12122734/Screenshot-2024-11-12-at-10.57.21-PM.png 794w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12122734/Screenshot-2024-11-12-at-10.57.21-PM-300x175.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/12122734/Screenshot-2024-11-12-at-10.57.21-PM-768x449.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 794px) 100vw, 794px" /></figure>
While it has managed to hold above the 4997 200-day moving average, Hunter is closely watching whether these resistance levels will break.
If the semiconductor sector can't clear this hurdle, it would signal a continuation of the underperformance that has characterized the group since mid-summer. 
On the other hand, if bullish momentum drags semiconductors through these barriers, it could fuel a catch-up rally in tech stocks, reversing the trend of broad market leadership shifting to other sectors.
Investors in the VanEck Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMH#NASDAQ">SMH</a>), the iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>) and the Direxion Daily Semiconductor Bull 3x Shares (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXL#NASDAQ">SOXL</a>) should remain wary of their holdings.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Will Tech Stage A Comeback?</h1>
Despite these challenges, Hunter remains optimistic that the post-election bullish momentum could eventually carry tech stocks, particularly semiconductors, back into the leadership role they held for much of the 2022-2024 rally. 
But if semiconductors continue to falter, and the broader market continues to rally without them, it could confirm that the days of tech dominance are coming to an end — at least for the near term.
For now, Hunter is watching for any breakouts in the tech sector, especially in semiconductors, to see if they can reclaim their former leadership position. 
The key levels to watch are the 5397 July gap for the SOX Index and the 21433-22306 range for the NASDAQ 100.
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</ul>
This image was created using artificial intelligence MidJourney.

Analyst Color

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Specialty ETFs

Technicals

Analyst Ratings

Trading Ideas

iShares Dow Jones US Telecommunications Sector Index Fund

SOXL

iShares PHLX SOX Semiconductor Sector Index Fund

SOXX

NASDAQ 100 Struggles To Close Gap With S&P 500 During Semiconductor Slowdown

Investors are zeroing in on what <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics">potential political outcomes</a> in the U.S. elections Tuesday could mean for the markets.
WisdomTree's Global CIO, Jeremy Schwartz and Senior Economist Jeremy Siegel have shared insights on how a Republican or Democratic win could shape sectors across both the equity and bond markets.
Here's what WisdomTree sees on the horizon.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bond Market Volatility: How Policy Could Shape Yields</h2>
Siegel said bond markets are primed for volatility, with each election outcome pointing to different scenarios for interest rates and yields. A Republican sweep, accompanied by tax cuts and heightened fiscal spending, could push bond yields upward by 20 basis points or more, he said. In this scenario, investors might brace for inflationary pressures and potentially tighter monetary policy, which would counterbalance any short-term equity gains.
On the flip side, a Democratic sweep is seen as a stabilizing force for bonds, with expectations for moderated spending and pro-growth fiscal restraint. 
WisdomTree's Kevin Flanagan, head of fixed income strategy, notes that Democratic policies might offer a predictable, low-volatility environment that helps maintain steady rates and tempers inflation concerns.
A divided government could yield the "best case" for bonds, creating stability through gridlock that limits sweeping fiscal changes and curbs deficit growth.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Equity Market Winners: Mag 7 In Focus Under GOP, Infrastructure &amp; Clean Energy For Democrats</h2>
For equity markets, each scenario presents distinct opportunities, particularly in the growth-oriented and infrastructure sectors. Under a Republican administration, WisdomTree expects an initial boost in stocks like the Magnificent Seven: (Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/meta#NASDAQ">META</a>), Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>). 
The Magnificent Seven stocks could be driven by extended tax cuts, reduced regulation, and potential capital gains exemptions.
The Roundhill Magnificent Seven ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAGS#NASDAQ">MAGS</a>) provides exposure to the Magnificent Seven stocks along with other popular tech-heavy ETFs such as the Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1 (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), the Vanguard Information Technology ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) and the Technology Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLK#NYSE">XLK</a>).
This favorable backdrop for the tech-heavy sector could stimulate momentum, although Siegel cautions that rising yields might cap equity gains by pressuring valuations.
In contrast, a Democratic sweep would likely favor sectors tied to clean energy and infrastructure. With a focus on the Inflation Reduction Act, the Democratic agenda is expected to channel substantial support into solar, hydrogen and renewable energy projects. The Invesco Solar ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TAN#NYSE">TAN</a>) provides exposure to solar stocks.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/esg/24/11/41722922/trump-vs-harris-evgo-cleveland-cliffs-plug-power-nucor-brace-for-2024-election-impact">Trump Vs. Harris: EVgo, Cleveland-Cliffs, Plug Power, Nucor Brace For 2024 Election Impact</a>
This shift would likely benefit clean energy stocks while weighing on small-cap stocks with high U.S. revenue exposure, as they would face the most significant earnings impact from higher corporate tax rates. 
Investors in clean energy ETFs such as the iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ICLN#NYSE">ICLN</a>) and First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart GRID Infrastructure Index (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRID#NYSE">GRID</a>) and those invested in small-cap stocks via ETFs such as the iShares Core S&amp;P Small-Cap ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IJR#NYSE">IJR</a>) or the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) should be wary of their holdings.
According to Wisdom Tree, Democratic leadership could also benefit international markets, as the reduced likelihood of higher tariffs might ease trade concerns and foster demand.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Navigating The Election Landscape</h2>
Beyond direct impacts on stocks and bonds, WisdomTree suggests that a blend of strategies, such as private credit, inflation hedges like gold, and international exposure with currency hedging, may help investors manage market uncertainty.
Trade policies, inflation, and the Federal Reserve's trajectory are all likely to play roles in shaping post-election strategies, underscoring the value of a diversified approach.
As the U.S. awaits the election results, WisdomTree's analysis highlights a divided outlook for investors. Whether the election ushers in policies that lift the Magnificent Seven stocks or bolsters the bond market, each scenario brings unique opportunities and risks to watch in the weeks ahead.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41746843/bond-market-fear-gauge-soars-to-1-year-high-ahead-of-us-election-results-bond-vigil">Bond Market Fear Gauge Soars To 1-Year High Ahead Of US Election Results: &#8216;Bond Vigilantes Have Been Voting Early&#8217;</a></li>
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Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Long Ideas

Politics

First Trust Nasdaq Clean Edge Smart Grid Infrastructure Index Fund

GRID

iShares S&P Global Clean Energy Index Fund

ICLN

MAGS

Republican Win Likely To Lift Magnificent 7 Stocks, Democratic Sweep 'Better For Bonds,' Says WisdomTree

Apple Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) smartphone sales declined 0.3% year over year in the third quarter, though demand for the iPhone 16 series, launched in September, held steady compared to previous generations, according to the IDC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prAP52680124" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a>.
This performance helped Apple regain its No. 2 position in China&#8217;s smartphone market, achieving a 15.6% market share—just behind Vivo, which led the market with an 18.6% share, boosted by 21.5% growth in shipments.
In a strong comeback, Huawei Technologies Co grew its shipments by 42% yearly to capture 15.3% of the market, following four consecutive quarters of double-digit growth.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41526650/apples-ai-powered-future-iphone-growth-surge-by-2026-with-new-iphone-17-ai-integration-analyst-says" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple&#8217;s AI-Powered Future: iPhone Growth Surge By 2026 With New iPhone 17, AI Integration, Analyst Says</a>
Huawei&#8217;s advanced China-made processor, which stoked patriotic support amid the tense geopolitical backdrop, has driven the brand&#8217;s premium segment success despite U.S. sanctions.
Xiaomi Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACF#OTC">XIACF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACY#OTC">XIACY</a>) also saw gains, ranking fourth with a 14.8% market share as its shipments increased by 12.8%, fueled by a push in both budget-friendly and high-end segments.
Honor, the former Huawei sub-brand, took fifth place with a 14.6% share, though its shipments declined by 22.5% during the quarter.
The overall Chinese smartphone market, the world&#8217;s largest, grew 3.2% year on year to 68.8 million units in the third quarter, marking a fourth straight quarter of growth. IDC analyst Arthur Guo attributed this rise to a &#8220;significant wave of device upgrades&#8221; driving China&#8217;s smartphone recovery.
The performance coincides with China&#8217;s stimulus plans and the upcoming holiday season.
Meanwhile, Apple offered <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41399541/apple-iphone-16-sees-20-sales-surge-in-china-but-ai-absence-prompts-early-price-cuts" rel="noreferrer noopener">notable promotions for</a> the iPhone 16 in China, with pre-release discounts on platforms like PDD Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PDD#NASDAQ">PDD</a>) Pinduoduo and Alibaba Group Holding (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) Taobao. Ahead of Singles&#8217; Day, Apple added further price reductions to attract more buyers.
Apple chief Tim Cook <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41478952/tim-cook-engages-with-chinas-it-minister-as-iphone-maker-aims-to-enhance-local-user-experience-w" rel="noreferrer noopener">recently met with</a> Jin Zhuanglong, China&#8217;s Minister for Industry and Information Technology. The minister reportedly expressed hopes that Apple will grow its presence in China and collaborate with local firms.
The visit marks Cook&#8217;s second visit to China in 2024. He showcased his visits to an organic farm and historic neighborhoods during his trip.
Needham&nbsp;analyst Laura Martin&nbsp;expects iPhone sales <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41005053/apple-iphone-to-fuel-96-of-2025-revenue-analyst-says-a-safer-bet-than-ai-heavy-amazon-alphabet-micro" rel="noreferrer noopener">to account for</a> 89%-96% of Apple&#8217;s 2025 revenue.
Apple stock gained 35% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through iShares Global Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IXN#NYSE">IXN</a>) and Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>).
Price Action: AAPL stock is up 0.85% at $232.52 at the last check on Friday.
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Apple's Q3 Smartphone Sales Slip Despite Strong iPhone 16 Demand, Market Share Dropped Slightly

Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) has reduced iPhone 16 prices by up to 1,600 yuan ($225) on its Alibaba Group Holding&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) Tmall store to boost sales during Singles&#8217; Day, the world&#8217;s largest shopping festival.
Beginning Monday evening, Apple offered a 500-yuan voucher for all iPhone 16 models, with the base iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro Max starting at 5,499 yuan and 9,499 yuan, respectively, SCMP <a target="_blank" href="https://www.scmp.com/tech/big-tech/article/3283270/apples-iphone-16-sees-price-cuts-chinese-online-platforms-singles-day-promotions?module=perpetual_scroll_0&amp;pgtype=article" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
These price cuts come as Apple aims to counter the lukewarm initial response to the iPhone 16 on Chinese social media.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/10/41408200/this-bullish-analyst-highlights-taiwan-semis-3nm-strength-and-margin-expansion-pote" rel="noreferrer noopener">This Bullish Analyst Highlights Taiwan Semi&#8217;s 3nm Strength and Margin Expansion Potential, Raises Forecast</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/22053634/newplot-19.png" alt="" class="wp-image-606949" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/22053634/newplot-19.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/22053634/newplot-19-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
The discounting is partly due to Apple Intelligence&#8217;s on-device AI system not supporting Chinese until next year.
Tmall has also introduced a trade-in subsidy of up to 1,100 yuan, allowing customers to save as much as 1,600 yuan on iPhone 16 purchases. JD.com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JD#NASDAQ">JD</a>) announced a similar discount, offering a free AppleCare+ subscription for the iPhone 16&#8217;s base and Plus models. PDD Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PDD#NASDAQ">PDD</a>) Pinduoduo further slashed prices, with the 256GB iPhone 16 Pro Max now priced at 9,199 yuan.
Riding the success of its 5G comeback, Huawei Technologies Co outpaced Apple in mainland smartphone sales in August for the first time in 46 months, SCMP cites CINNO Research.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41399541/apple-iphone-16-sees-20-sales-surge-in-china-but-ai-absence-prompts-early-price-cuts" rel="noreferrer noopener">Prior reports indicated</a> that Pinduoduo and Taobao were slashing the prices of the iPhone 16 series before its official release due to its&nbsp;lack of AI features.
Pinduoduo started selling the iPhone 16 Plus with 512 gigabytes of storage at a 10% discount and the 128GB iPhone 16 at an 11% discount. Both Pinduoduo and Taobao marketplace have slapped a 4% discount on the 256GB version of the high-end iPhone 16 Pro Max.
Needham&nbsp;analyst Laura Martin expects the iPhone to constitute 89%- 96% of Apple&#8217;s <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41005053/apple-iphone-to-fuel-96-of-2025-revenue-analyst-says-a-safer-bet-than-ai-heavy-amazon-alphabet-micro" rel="noreferrer noopener">fiscal 2025 revenue</a>.
Apple&nbsp;stock gained 37% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) and iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWF#NYSE">IWF</a>).
Price Action: AAPL stock is down 0.99% at $234.13 at the last check on Tuesday.
Also Read:
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Photo courtesy: Apple

Government

Apple iPhone 16 Discounts Roll Out on Alibaba's Tmall, AI Delays and Domestic Competitors Fuel Aggressive Pricing

Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is nearing the launch of a budget smartphone by 2025 to regain market share lost to Huawei&nbsp;Technologies Co and Xiaomi Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACF#OTC">XIACF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XIACY#OTC">XIACY</a>).
Apple iPhone&#8217;s market share in China <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40823119/china-is-eating-apples-lunch-where-smartphone-maker-ranks-vs-asian-competitors" rel="noreferrer noopener">slipped to 14%</a>, down from third to sixth place in the second quarter. Huawei bagged the fourth position, and&nbsp;Xiaomi&nbsp;came fifth.
Vivo&nbsp;emerged as the number one brand, OPPO remained second, and HONOR came third in China. Canalys attributed the local brands&#8217; success to the early discounts and promotions, integration of generative artificial intelligence, and their collaboration with regional supply chains.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41139084/nvidia-expands-ai-offerings-with-new-open-source-models-and-unreal-engine-5-plugins" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nvidia Expands AI Offerings with New Open-Source Models and Unreal Engine 5 Plugins</a>
Apple is nearing production of an updated iPhone SE dubbed V59 that will become its new entry-level model, Bloomberg <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-10-01/apple-readies-iphone-se-4-upgraded-ipad-air-for-early-2025?srnd=homepage-asia&amp;sref=TBDibEcD" rel="noreferrer noopener">cites</a> familiar sources.
Reportedly, Apple will transition to an edge-to-edge screen, removing the old home button design. The new SE phone will likely support Apple Intelligence.
Needham&nbsp;analyst Laura Martin&nbsp;expects 89%- 96% of Apple&#8217;s 2025 revenue to depend <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41005053/apple-iphone-to-fuel-96-of-2025-revenue-analyst-says-a-safer-bet-than-ai-heavy-amazon-alphabet-micro" rel="noreferrer noopener">on iPhone sales</a>, underscoring the importance of Apple&#8217;s smartphone strategy.
Apple is also considering iPad upgrades. The company&#8217;s new iPad Air models, dubbed J607 and J637, will likely launch in 2025. A new iPad mini, dubbed J410, will be available by the end of 2024.
Apple&#8217;s updated models include a&nbsp;revamped Mac mini, updated MacBook Pros, and iMacs with the M4 processor and Apple Intelligence features.
However, Barclays analyst Tim Long flagged a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41127362/apples-iphone-16-cycle-faces-headwinds-analyst-warns-of-weaker-demand-macro-pressures-potential-earl" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential 3 million</a> iPhone unit cut for the December quarter due to demand weakness.
Apple stock is up over 30% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through iShares Global Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IXN#NYSE">IXN</a>)
and Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>).
Price Action: AAPL stock is down 0.23% at $225.69 at the last check on Wednesday.
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Image via Shutterstock

Apple To Launch Budget iPhone in 2025, Aims for Market Share Gains from Huawei and Xiaomi

The U.S. exchange-traded fund (ETF) market has reached a monumental milestone, surpassing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SPY/news">$10 trillion in assets</a>. 
This surge was fueled by a remarkable $691 billion in inflows this year alone, as <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-09-27/wall-street-s-etf-assets-hit-10-trillion-milestone-amid-frenzy?srnd=phx-latest&amp;sref=TBDibEcD&amp;leadSource=uverify%20wall">reported</a> by Bloomberg. 
This impressive surge has set the stage for a record-breaking year, with ETF flows on track to shatter the previous record of $900 billion in inflows.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">VOO, VGT Outshine SPY In Fund Flows</h1>
According to ETF.com <a href="https://www.etf.com/etfanalytics/etf-fund-flows-tool">data</a>, as of the end of Aug.2024, the market saw a robust performance, with a total of $71 billion pouring into ETFs during the month. Leading the charge were heavyweights such as the Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VOO#NYSE">VOO</a>) and the Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>), while the SPDR S&amp;P 500 (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) experienced notable outflows.
As investors diversify their portfolios, it's clear that ETFs are becoming the go-to investment vehicle.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">VOO, IVV, VTI Lead YTD Gains</h1>
Among the top gainers for the year were the S&amp;P 500 index-tracking Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF and iShares Core S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IVV#NYSE">IVV</a>). The Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF has made a significant mark, attracting over $60.5 billion in net flows and boasting an impressive $503 billion in assets under management (AUM). This translates to 12.04% of its AUM, a testament to the confidence investors have in the S&amp;P 500's performance.
Following closely is the iShares Core S&amp;P 500 ETF, raking in about $43.4 billion in net flows, while the Vanguard Total Stock Market Index Fund ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VTI#NYSE">VTI</a>) pulled in a respectable $21 billion.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/41096120/if-you-invested-1-000-in-bitcoin-when-donald-trump-said-he-wasnt-a-fan-heres-how-much-youd">If You Invested $1,000 In Bitcoin When Donald Trump Said He Wasn&#8217;t A Fan, Here&#8217;s How Much You&#8217;d Have Today</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Tech-Focused QQQ, Bitcoin ETF Not Far Behind</h1>
The tech sector hasn't been left behind either, with Invesco QQQ Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>) gathering nearly $20.9 billion this year, showcasing a vibrant interest in technology stocks.
The cryptocurrency space is also making waves, as seen in the remarkable inflows into iShares Bitcoin Trust (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBIT#NASDAQ">IBIT</a>), which attracted around $20.9 billion, capturing an astonishing 98.63% of its AUM.
With these trends, it&#8217;s clear that ETFs continue to be a major player in the investment landscape, providing investors with diverse options and strategic exposure to various sectors. 
As the market evolves, one thing is certain: the ETF party is just getting started!
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/09/41033617/voo-vs-vti-vanguards-s-p-500-total-stock-market-etfs-hit-new-highs-as-s-p-500-reaches-record-level">VOO Vs. VTI: Vanguard&#8217;s S&amp;P 500, Total Stock Market ETFs Hit New Highs As S&amp;P 500 Reaches Record Level</a></li>
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Photo: Shutterstock

S&P 500 ETF Titans Drive $691B In 2024 Inflows: Nasdaq, Bitcoin ETFs Close Behind

Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) has appointed Carolina Dybeck Happe <a target="_blank" href="https://blogs.microsoft.com/blog/2024/09/12/microsoft-names-new-executive-vice-president-and-chief-operations-officer/" rel="noreferrer noopener">as its new</a> EVP and COO.
Happe served at GE as SVP and CFO from 2020 until September 2023. Reuters reports that she was pivotal in leading the company&#8217;s turnaround and helped complete the spin-off of energy infrastructure unit GE Vernova in April 2024 after she stepped down from her role as CFO.
Microsoft&#8217;s move coincides with its pursuit of the lead in the cloud services market by solidifying its moat against Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Amazon Web Services.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40707618/whats-going-on-with-amd-stock-on-wednesday" rel="noreferrer noopener">AMD Taps Former Nvidia Exec to Lead AI Vision, Bolstering Strategic Growth</a>
The hiring also followed the CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40791329/microsoft-plans-major-cybersecurity-summit-after-global-it-outage-hits-8-5m-devices-earlier-this-yea" rel="noreferrer noopener">outage that hampered</a> Microsoft devices, Reuters cites D.A. Davidson analyst Gil Luria.
Microsoft made <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38664730/googles-deepmind-co-founder-mustafa-suleyman-shares-his-exciting-first-month-at-microsoft-truly-tran" rel="noreferrer noopener">another critical hiring</a> earlier this year. In March 2024, the company poached the co-founder of&nbsp;Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) Google&nbsp;DeepMind&nbsp;AI lab co-founder Mustafa Suleyman from Inflection AI to lead Microsoft&#8217;s AI division.
Microsoft gained over 27% in the last 12 months. Investors can gain exposure to the stock through iShares Global Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IXN#NYSE">IXN</a>) and Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>).
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Microsoft Stock Prediction For 2024</h2>
Equity research analysts on and off Wall Street typically use earnings growth and fundamental research as a form of valuation and forecasting. But many in trading turn to technical analysis as a way to form predictive models for share price trajectory.
Some investors look to trends to help forecast where they believe a stock could trade at a certain point in the future. Looking at Microsoft, an investor could make an assessment about a stock's long term prospects using a moving average and trend line. If they believe a stock will remain above the moving average, which many believe is a bullish signal, they can extrapolate that trend into the future using a trend line. 
For Microsoft, the 200-day moving average sits at $412.21, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">Benzinga Pro</a>, which is below the current price of $427.0. For more on charts and trend lines, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/">see a description here.</a>
Traders believe that when a stock is above its moving average, it is a generally bullish signal, and when it crosses below, it is a more negative signal. Investors could use trend lines to make an educated guess about where a stock could trade at a later date if conditions remain stable.
Price Action: MSFT stock traded lower by 0.19% at $426.21 premarket at the last check on Friday.
Also Read:
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Management

CRWD

Microsoft Hires Former GE CFO Carolina Dybeck Happe As COO To Boost Cloud And AI Focus

Launched on 05/08/2007, the First Trust Technology AlphaDEX ETF (ARCA:FXL) is a smart beta exchange traded fund offering broad exposure to the Technology ETFs category of the market.
<h2>What Are Smart Beta ETFs?</h2>
For a long time now, the ETF industry has been flooded with products based on market capitalization weighted indexes, which are designed to represent the broader market or a particular market segment.
Investors who believe in market efficiency should consider market cap indexes, as they replicate market returns in a low-cost, convenient, and transparent way.
However, some investors believe in the possibility of beating the market through exceptional stock selection, and choose a different type of fund that tracks non-cap weighted strategies: smart beta.
Non-cap weighted indexes try to choose stocks that have a better chance of risk-return performance, which is based on specific fundamental characteristics, or a mix of other such characteristics.
Methodologies like equal-weighting, one of the simplest options out there, fundamental weighting, and volatility/momentum based weighting are all choices offered to investors in this space, but not all of them can deliver superior returns.
<h2>Fund Sponsor &amp; Index</h2>
The fund is managed by First Trust Advisors. FXL has been able to amass assets over $1.24 billion, making it one of the larger ETFs in the Technology ETFs. Before fees and expenses, FXL seeks to match the performance of the StrataQuant Technology Index.
The StrataQuant Technology Index is a modified equal-dollar weighted index designed by the AMEX to objectively identify and select stocks from the Russell 1000 Index that may generate positive alpha relative to traditional passive style indices through the use of the AlphaDEX screening methodology.
<h2>Cost &amp; Other Expenses</h2>
Investors should also pay attention to an ETF&#39;s expense ratio. Lower cost products will produce better results than those with a higher cost, assuming all other metrics remain the same.
Annual operating expenses for FXL are 0.62%, which makes it on par with most peer products in the space.
FXL&#39;s 12-month trailing dividend yield is 0.41%.
<h2>Sector Exposure and Top Holdings</h2>
It is important to delve into an ETF&#39;s holdings before investing despite the many upsides to these kinds of funds like diversified exposure, which minimizes single stock risk. And, most ETFs are very transparent products that disclose their holdings on a daily basis.
For FXL, it has heaviest allocation in the Information Technology sector --about 80.90% of the portfolio --while Industrials and Telecom round out the top three.
Taking into account individual holdings, Palantir Technologies Inc. (class A) (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/pltr#NYSE">PLTR</a>) accounts for about 2.06% of the fund&#39;s total assets, followed by Godaddy Inc. (class A)&nbsp;and Cognizant Technology Solutions Corporation (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ctsh#NASDAQ">CTSH</a>).
FXL&#39;s top 10 holdings account for about 18.47% of its total assets under management.
<h2>Performance and Risk</h2>
Year-to-date, the First Trust Technology AlphaDEX ETF has lost about -0.82% so far, and is up about 9.32% over the last 12 months (as of 09/09/2024). FXL has traded between $104.07 and $142.51 in this past 52-week period.
The ETF has a beta of 1.14 and standard deviation of 25.32% for the trailing three-year period, making it a medium risk choice in the space. With about 103 holdings, it effectively diversifies company-specific risk.
<h2>Alternatives</h2>
First Trust Technology AlphaDEX ETF is an excellent option for investors seeking to outperform the Technology ETFs segment of the market. There are other ETFs in the space which investors could consider as well.
Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF (ARCA:XLK) tracks Technology Select Sector Index and the Vanguard Information Technology ETF (ARCA:VGT) tracks MSCI US Investable Market Information Technology 25/50 Index. Technology Select Sector SPDR ETF has $64.13 billion in assets, Vanguard Information Technology ETF has $70.17 billion. XLK has an expense ratio of 0.09% and VGT charges 0.10%.
Investors looking for cheaper and lower-risk options should consider traditional market cap weighted ETFs that aim to match the returns of the Technology ETFs.
<a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2333154/is-first-trust-technology-alphadex-etf-fxl-a-strong-etf-right-now?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-smart_beta_etf-2333154">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a>

CTSH

Is First Trust Technology AlphaDEX ETF a Strong ETF Right Now?

Advanced Micro Devices, Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), has hired Keith Strier of Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)&nbsp;as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/09/g40695847/amd-appoints-ai-industry-veteran-keith-strier-to-expand-global-ai-capabilities-and-engagements" rel="noreferrer noopener">senior vice president</a> of global artificial intelligence markets.
Strier will lead AMD&#8217;s AI vision, driving new ecosystem capabilities and accelerating strategic AI engagements globally across public and private sectors.&nbsp;
He recently served as vice president of worldwide AI initiatives at Nvidia, where he was responsible for expanding commercial engagements with foreign governments.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40687996/microsofts-ai-pcs-stumble-with-game-compatibility-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Microsoft&#8217;s AI PCs Stumble With Game Compatibility: Report</a>
Nvidia&#8217;s rival AMD remains engaged in gaining market share through plans to acquire AI server company&nbsp;ZT Systems&nbsp;for $4.9 billion.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="750" height="650" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/04042701/newplot-3.png" alt="" class="wp-image-528757" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/04042701/newplot-3.png 750w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/04042701/newplot-3-300x260.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 750px) 100vw, 750px" /></figure>
At the same time, it grappled with its Ryzen 9000 series sales, as analysts, including&nbsp;Oppenheimer&#8217;s Rick Schafer, Truist Securities&#8217; William Stein, and Wedbush Securities&#8217; Matt Bryson, tout Nvidia as the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40526391/whats-going-on-with-amd-stock-on-friday" rel="noreferrer noopener">critical AI play</a>.
Microsoft Corp&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) new Windows AI features will arrive on some AMD and Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) laptops in November, the Verge <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/9/3/24234687/microsoft-co-pilot-plus-pcs-intel-features-release-date" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
JPMorgan analyst Harlan Sur&nbsp;expects AMD to grow&nbsp;data center GPU revenue&nbsp;by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/24/08/40438854/amd-expands-ai-capabilities-acquires-zt-systems-in-major-4-9b-deal" rel="noreferrer noopener">$5 billion&nbsp;in</a> fiscal 2024, backed by server and PC CPU market share wins.
AMD stock gained 24% in the last 12 months versus Nvidia&#8217;s 123%.
Investors can gain exposure to AMD through Vanguard Information Tech ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VGT#NYSE">VGT</a>) and iShares Semiconductor ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOXX#NASDAQ">SOXX</a>).
Price Action: AMD stock is up 2.49% at $140.35 premarket at last check Wednesday.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40692084/intels-place-in-dow-in-jeopardy-ai-strategy-under-scrutiny-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intel&#8217;s Place In Dow In Jeopardy, AI Strategy Under Scrutiny: Report</a></li>
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Photo via Shutterstock

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