La catena delle opzioni mostra i dati chiave delle opzioni azionarie di Essential Utilities a vari prezzi di esercizio e date di scadenza. I trader utilizzano queste informazioni per analizzare potenziali operazioni e valutare il sentiment del mercato per Essential Utilities..

Essential Utilities (NYSE:WTRG) Azioni, Catena delle Opzioni

Essential Utilities

Essential Utilities is a Pennsylvania-based holding company for US water, wastewater, and natural gas distribution utilities. The company's water business serves 3 million people in eight states. Its largest service territory is in Pennsylvania, primarily suburban Philadelphia. Its Peoples subsidiary serves more than 740,000 gas distribution customers in Pennsylvania and Kentucky. It completed the sale of its West Virginia gas utility and the bulk of its nonregulated assets in 2024.

Essential Utilities Inc

B of A Securities analyst Kenneth Bruce upgrades American Express (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>) from Neutral to Buy and lowers the price target from $325 to $274.

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Analyst Ratings

B of A Securities Upgrades American Express to Buy, Lowers Price Target to $274

Abigail Disney, filmmaker and heir to the Disney fortune, is known for her frank views on wealth, inequality, and politics. She recently expressed her concerns about the rise of Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and the culture of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44710082/trumps-liberation-day-tariffs-wipe-out-174-billion-from-the-net-worth-of-worlds-top-10-billionaires-including-warren-buffett">unbridled privilege</a>, while advocating for systemic change and grassroots resistance.
What Happened: In a recent conversation <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/07/abigail-disney-every-billionaire-who-cant-live-on-999m-is-kind-of-a-sociopath">with</a> The Guardian&#8216;s John Harris, Disney criticized Trump's sense of entitlement grounded in inherited wealth, calling it "the worst way to raise a person."
She argued that both Trump and Musk represent a moral void, highlighting Musk's role in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43781034/bill-gates-hopes-elon-musk-will-rethink-slashing-usaid-their-work-is-something-every-taxpayer-would-be-proud">defunding</a> life-saving global health programs like PEPFAR.
Disney has long called for taxing the ultra-rich, stating, "Every billionaire who can't live on $999 million is kind of a sociopath." She has donated around $70 million to organizations supporting marginalized women.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44367634/bill-gates-says-hes-not-an-overly-frugal-billionaire-but-by-his-grandmothers-standards-hes-crazy"> Bill Gates Says He&#8217;s Not an Overly Frugal Billionaire—But by His Grandmother&#8217;s Standards, He&#8217;s &#8216;Crazy&#8217; for Tossing Gift Bags and Wrapping Paper</a>
Why It Matters: Disney believes Trump's success is not an accident but the outcome of years of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44658417/warren-buffett-stands-tall-in-2025-as-elon-musk-jeff-bezos-and-mark-zuckerberg-bleed-billions-in-net-worth-oracle-of-omaha-emerges-as-lone-gainer-among-top-billionaires-amid-market-rout">cultural adulation of wealth</a>. "Our magazine covers used to show war heroes or civil rights leaders—now it's all CEOs," she observed.
She holds the media, celebrity culture, and social media responsible for platforming figures like Trump, who "came along at the correct moment and played his role brilliantly."
Disney advocated for the restructuring of civic institutions and backing "authentic" voices in politics. She urged figures like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44400603/starbucks-must-end-its-greed-bernie-sanders-calls-out-starbucks-ceo-for-getting-96-million-for-4-months-of-work">Bernie Sanders</a>, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and younger politicians like Maxwell Frost to consolidate public support and chart a coordinated campaign.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44706255/trump-loses-500-million-in-personal-wealth-as-his-own-tariff-policy-sparks-sharp-declines-across-his-business-empire">Trump&#8217;s Tariff Push Drags Down His Personal Fortune — Here&#8217;s How Much The Billionaire President Has Lost Since &#8216;Liberation Day&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock

Politics

'Every Billionaire Who Needs More Than $999M Is Kind Of A Sociopath,'  Says Abigail Disney

China has announced a 60 billion yuan (US$8.2 billion) government-aided fund for jump-starting early-stage artificial intelligence projects, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44268864/chinese-investors-rushing-to-find-the-next-deepseek-says-vc-as-ai-boom-fuels-investment-surge-after-nvidia-selloff">consolidating its ambition </a>to dominate the global AI race.
The move comes amidst escalating trade tensions with the U.S. and an increasing country-wide push for technological self-sufficiency.
What Happened: Zhang Jianhua from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology said the AI Industry Investment Fund was set up in January with support from the Big Fund's third phase, according <a href="https://www.scmp.com/tech/policy/article/3306047/new-ai-fund-china-pour-us8-billion-early-stage-projects">to</a> the South China Morning Post.
Moderated by state-owned Guozhi Investment, the fund will invest throughout the AI supply chain, including computing power, data, algorithms, and applications. Embodied AI, which refers to intelligent systems in physical form, is a key area of focus.
"The development of embodied AI will provide an effective path for the commercialisation of AI," Zhang said.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43770990/chinas-ai-boom-is-reshaping-the-global-economy-and-the-u-s-isnt-ready">China&#8217;s AI Boom Is Reshaping The Global Economy—And The U.S. Isn&#8217;t Ready</a>
Why It Matters: Launched almost immediately after new <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44756353/xi-jinping-says-there-are-no-winners-in-tariff-war-as-china-slaps-125-tariffs-on-us-goods-urges-trump-to-immediately-correct-wrongdoings">U.S. tariff policies</a>, the fund highlights China's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44740040/chinas-growth-outlook-dims-as-trumps-125-tariffs-put-millions-of-jobs-at-risk-goldman-warns">push for tech independence</a>. With the AI market estimated to hit 5.6 trillion yuan by 2030, Beijing is using state capital to stay ahead of the curve.
Zhang added the fund will actively back companies in Shenzhen, stating: "The National AI Industry Investment Fund is willing to work with all relevant parties in Shenzhen to increase capital, confidence and capacity."
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44745275/alibaba-bets-big-on-ai-with-new-cloud-tools-as-jack-ma-reemerges-in-company-comeback">Alibaba Bets Big On AI With New Cloud Tools As Jack Ma Reemerges In Company Comeback</a>
Image via Shutterstock

Global

Tech

General

China's $8.2 Billion Fund Targets AI Startups In The Race For Global Tech Leadership

Housing inflation is finally showing signs of easing, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March posting a 4% year-over-year increase in housing costs — the slowest uptick since November 2021. 
Yet, buyers still grapple with steep price tags and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/reit/25/04/44703014/tariff-turmoil-sends-mortgage-rates-higher-contract-signings-remain-well-below-normal-historical-levels">volatile</a> mortgage rates. Despite this cooling trend, prospective homeowners need to decide whether they should leap into the market or sit tight, especially as the Federal Reserve's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/25/04/44733390/march-inflation-rate-cools-far-more-than-expected-raises-hopes-for-near-term-fed-rate-cuts">inflation fight</a> continues.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Rates and Prices Are A Double-Edged Sword</h3>
Throughout 2024, mortgage rates soared past 8%, but they've since receded to an average of around 6.76%, per recent Bankrate <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/historical-mortgage-rates/">data</a>. Meanwhile, the National Association of Realtors (NAR) <a href="https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/existing-home-sales-accelerated-4-2-in-february">reports</a> that February's median home price stood at $398,100 — still historically high. While higher rates and record-breaking prices might deter many buyers, securing a loan now means you start building equity sooner, and you can refinance later if rates drop.
See also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44706575/millions-of-seniors-could-be-shut-out-of-social-security-services-as-phone-applications-get-axed-study">Millions Of Seniors Could Be Shut Out Of Social Security Services As Phone Applications Get Axed: Study</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Three Key Factors At Play</h3>
The NAR data shows that homes spent an average of 42 days on the market in February (up from 38 last year), giving buyers more breathing room. Active listings have also increased by 17% year-over-year, improving choice and negotiation power. That said, real estate remains hyper-local, which means that supply and demand can swing dramatically even within a single metro area, so it's crucial to partner with an agent familiar with the nuances of your chosen neighborhood.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Recession Worries And More Careful Consideration</h3>
Talk of an impending recession clouds the future. A downturn could <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-prepare-for-a-recession-9-tips">undermine job security</a> and dampen demand, which in turn might push prices lower. On the flip side, a recession can create opportunities for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-to-look-for-when-buying-a-house">well-prepared buyers</a> unburdened by layoffs or shaky finances. If you opt to wait, it would be a good idea to focus on boosting your credit score and padding your savings since a stronger financial position means better loan terms when the right time finally arrives.
Ultimately, this market hinges on personal stability. Whether housing inflation has cooled enough or not, ask yourself: Are you ready to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mortgage-tips">manage a mortgage</a>, maintain a steady income, and stay put long enough for the investment to pay off? If yes, buying now might be less daunting than it seems.
Featured Image via Shutterstock
Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44756759/new-research-shows-donald-trumps-25-tariffs-could-cost-auto-companies-108billion-report">More Homes Hit The Market, But Pending Sales Dip As Buyers Hesitate</a>

Financing

Housing Inflation Had Its Lowest Uptick In March But Is Now The Worst Time To Buy A House?

On Thursday, April 10, U.S. markets closed lower as renewed fears over President Trump&#8217;s escalating trade war with China erased much of the previous day&#8217;s historic rally.
The S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq had surged following a 90-day tariff reprieve, but investor uncertainty quickly returned. Meanwhile, inflation eased in March, nearing the Fed&#8217;s 2% target, though the central bank&#8217;s path forward remains uncertain amid ongoing trade tensions with both China and Europe.
In economic data, Consumer inflation slowed to 2.4% year-over-year, down from 2.8% in February and below expectations of 2.6%—marking the lowest reading since September 2024. On a monthly basis, the Consumer Price Index fell 0.1%, the first decline since May 2020.
Most S&amp;P 500 sectors ended lower, led by sharp losses in energy, technology, and communication services. However, consumer staples outperformed, closing in positive territory.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 2.50% to 39,593.66, the S&amp;P 500 fell 3.46% to 5,268.05, and the Nasdaq Composite declined 4.31% to close at 16,387.31.
Related: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44756353/xi-jinping-says-there-are-no-winners-in-tariff-war-as-china-slaps-125-tariffs-on-us-goods-urges-trump-to-immediately-correct-wrongdoings" rel="noreferrer noopener">Xi Jinping Says &#8216;There Are No Winners In Tariff War&#8217; As China Slaps 125% Tariffs On US Goods, Urges Trump To Immediately Correct &#8216;Wrongdoings&#8217;</a>
Asia Markets Today
<ul>
<li>On Friday, Japan&#8217;s Nikkei 225 fell 2.96% to close at 33,584.50, led by losses in the Paper &amp; Pulp, Transport and Communication sectors.</li>
<li>Australia&#8217;s S&amp;P/ASX 200 was down 0.82% and closed at 7,646.50, led by losses in the Healthcare, Utilities and Energy sectors.</li>
<li>India&#8217;s Nifty 50 was up 1.89% at 22,822.35, and Nifty 500 rose 1.94% at 20,749.50.</li>
<li>China&#8217;s Shanghai Composite rose 0.45% to 3,238.23, and Shanghai Shenzhen CSI 300 increased 0.41% to 3,750.52.</li>
<li>Hong Kong&#8217;s Hang Seng Index gained 1.26% to 20,943.00.</li>
<li>China raised tariffs on U.S. goods to 125%, escalating its trade war with Washington after Trump&#8217;s 145% hike. Beijing condemned the move as unilateral bullying.</li>
</ul>
Eurozone at 05:45 AM ET
<ul>
<li>The European STOXX 50 was down 1.23%.</li>
<li>Germany&#8217;s DAX declined 1.68%.</li>
<li>France&#8217;s CAC 40 fell 0.96%.</li>
<li>U.K.&#8217;s FTSE 100 index traded lower by 0.16%.</li>
</ul>
Commodities at 05:45 AM ET
<ul>
<li>Crude Oil WTI was trading higher by 0.27% at $60.23/bbl, and Brent was up 0.19% at $63.46/bbl.</li>
<li>Natural Gas fell 0.65% to $3.691.</li>
<li>Gold was trading higher by 2.00% at $3,241.60, Silver was up 2.01% to $31.380, and Copper rose 2.62% to $4.4500.</li>
<li>Gold <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/04/44754594/gold-miners-rally-as-bullion-hits-3212-record-trump-tariffs-fuel-over-20-year-to-date-surge-across-sector" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">recorded </a>a new high as mining stocks continued their post-inauguration rally amid escalating U.S.-China trade tensions.</li>
</ul>
U.S. Futures at 05:45 AM ET
<ul>
<li>Dow futures were down 0.17%, S&amp;P 500 futures declined 0.06%, and Nasdaq 100 futures rose 0.39%.</li>
<li>U.S. stock futures fell as China hiked tariffs to 125%, escalating trade tensions. Markets fear global recession, with investors rattled by supply chain risks and economic fallout from the intensifying conflict.</li>
</ul>
Forex at 05:45 AM ET
<ul>
<li>The U.S. Dollar Index declined 1.60% to 99.23, USD/JPY was down 1.51% to 142.32, and USD/AUD slid 1.20% to 1.6050.</li>
<li>The U.S. dollar sank to a near two-year low as trade tensions escalated and confidence in U.S. assets eroded. Investors flocked to the euro, Swiss franc, and British pound instead.</li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Asia

Emerging Markets

Eurozone

Commodities

Forex

Markets

ADIV

AGOV

ASHR

BBEU

BOIL

CQQQ

PowerShares DBmmodity Index Optimum Yield Diversified Fund

EEMA

FLAX

CurrencyShares British Pound Sterling Trust

IEMG

IEUR

KraneShares Trust KraneShares S&P Pan Asia Dividend Aristocrats Index ETF

KDIV

SPEM

USDU

PowerShares DB US Dollar Index Bullish Fund

China's Retaliatory Tariff Hike Escalates Trade War, Gold Soars, Dollar Hits Two-Year Low - Global Markets Today While US Slept

In its most recent move to tackle <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44447338/donald-trump-administration-to-strip-legal-protections-from-over-half-a-million-migrants-as-he-argues-joe-bidens-parole-programs-overstepped-federal-law">unregulated migration</a>, the Trump administration has reclassified over 6,000 living immigrants as deceased and disabled their Social Security numbers.
This move strips them of their work eligibility and pushes them to leave the country.
What Happened: According <a href="https://time.com/7276631/social-security-immigrants-trump-work-eligibility-benefits-services-self-deport/">to</a> Time Magazine, immigrants&#8217; names were moved into a federal death-tracking database, removing access to jobs, banking, and services.
Many of those targeted had legal status under Biden-era programs, including users of the CBP One app. "It wasn't immediately clear how the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44067679/trumps-immigration-policy-could-be-the-key-to-inflation-and-market-shifts-investors-warn">6,000-plus immigrants</a> were chosen," the sources speaking to Time Magazine said.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44753700/a-waste-of-resources-u-s-spent-40-million-to-hold-400-migrants-at-guantanamo-in-just-6-weeks">A &#8216;Waste of Resources&#8217;? U.S. Spent $40 Million To Hold 400 Migrants At Guantánamo In Just 6 Weeks</a>
Why It Matters: Critics view this tactic as a strategy to force "self-deportation." "This President continues to engage in lawless behavior," said Skye Perryman of Democracy Forward, sharing plans to sue. Meanwhile, a new IRS-ICE data-sharing agreement drew widespread backlash and led to the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/25/04/44708720/irs-turmoil-deepens-after-unheard-of-treasury-interference-triggers-commissioners-departure"> IRS commissioner's resignation</a>.
Legal challenges to this new move are expected as advocacy groups raise alarms about further overreach by the administration. "We will likely sue over the Social Security numbers," Perryman added.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44706330/irs-reverses-stance-agrees-to-share-undocumented-migrant-taxpayers-information-with-ice-this-is-unprecedented">IRS Reverses Stance, Will Hand Over Undocumented Taxpayer Info To Immigration Authorities: &#8216;It&#8217;s Unprecedented</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Shutterstock

Government

Regulations

Over 6,000 Immigrants Declared Dead By Social Security In Effort To Revoke Benefits And Force 'Self-Deportation'

Judge Trevor Neil McFadden has given the green light to the Trump administration's plan requiring undocumented immigrants to register with the federal government.
What Happened: Judge McFadden ruled Thursday in favor of the Trump administration, allowing the enforcement of a policy that mandates undocumented immigrants aged 14 and older to provide their fingerprints or face penalties, including fines or imprisonment, <a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/04/10/immigrant-registry-fingerprints-trump-administration">Axios</a> reported.
The rule, effective from Friday, is a part of the administration&#8217;s escalated efforts to control undocumented immigration.
The Trump administration first announced this plan in February. In a lawsuit filed by the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), the administration defended its stance, stating that it was merely enforcing the existing federal immigration law that requires non-citizens to register with the government.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44749653/bitcoin-ethereum-xrp-dogecoin-lose-steam-trader-warns-of-new-lows-under-one-condition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin Lose Steam, Trader Warns Of &#8216;New Lows&#8217; Under One Condition &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Under the new rule, undocumented immigrants are&nbsp;required to register and create&nbsp;an account on the&nbsp;U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services&nbsp;(USCIS) online page. This rule applies to anyone residing&nbsp;in the U.S. for 30&nbsp;days or more. Once registered and fingerprinted, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will issue &#8220;evidence of registration,&#8221; which immigrants aged 18 and above must carry&nbsp;with them at all times,&nbsp;as per USCIS.
Why It Matters: This ruling comes amid a series of actions taken by the Trump administration to tighten immigration control. In March, the administration revoked legal status for approximately <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44447338/donald-trump-administration-to-strip-legal-protections-from-over-half-a-million-migrants-as-he-argues-joe-bidens-parole-programs-overstepped-federal-law">530,000 migrants</a> from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, reversing a key policy from the Biden era. Later that month, President Trump signed an executive order to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44550693/trump-signs-executive-order-to-combat-crime-and-toughen-immigration-enforcement-in-washington-d-c">enhance immigration enforcement</a> in Washington, D.C. 
These measures have sparked criticism, particularly due to their high cost. For instance, the U.S. government spent approximately <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44753700/a-waste-of-resources-u-s-spent-40-million-to-hold-400-migrants-at-guantanamo-in-just-6-weeks">$40 million</a> in just six weeks to detain fewer than 400 migrants at the Guantánamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba, raising concerns among lawmakers about the high cost and military impact of these operations. Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/25/04/44738770/reddit-investor-asks-is-it-possible-that-trumps-tariffs-are-a-massive-pump-and-dump-scheme-whos-going-to-inv" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reddit Investor Asks, &#8216;Is It Possible That Trump&#8217;s Tariffs Are A Massive Pump And Dump Scheme? Who&#8217;s Going To Investigate Or Stop Him?&#8217;</a>

Federal Judge Clears Trump Plan Requiring Undocumented Immigrants To Register Or Face Penalties

Sen. Bernie Sanders is warning American workers to prepare for enormous changes as AI and robotics reconfigure the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/04/44645518/strong-jobs-report-offers-hope-but-will-it-be-enough-to-counter-tariff-turmoil">job market</a>.
Speaking at a CNN town hall with Anderson Cooper earlier this week, he advised the public to consider the threat seriously.
What Happened: Sanders referred to Elon Musk's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44447947/big-short-investor-danny-moses-warns-of-economic-risks-from-elon-musks-doge-induced-federal-job-cuts">dismissal of federal workers</a> under the Trump administration's Department of Government Efficiency.
"If Musk can do this to federal employees, what do you think he's going to be doing when artificial intelligence and robotics come for your job?" he asked. "The job you have today ain't going to be here in 10 or 15 years."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/44705372/ai-is-quietly-reshaping-how-companies-screen-resumes-nearly-half-of-hiring-managers-now-use-it">AI Is Quietly Reshaping How Companies Screen Resumes — Nearly Half Of Hiring Managers Now Use It</a>
Why It Matters: Sanders accused Musk and tech elites of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44556147/mark-cuban-warns-of-red-rural-recession-as-hundreds-of-small-town-maga-supporters-reportedly-lose-federal-jobs-their-finances-will-be-turned-upside-down">prioritizing profits above people</a>. "They don't give a damn about you," Sanders said. "If this is what they could do to federal employees, think about what they could do to people in the private sector."
"I am not a Luddite," Sanders went on to add. "But new technology, AI, robotics, has got to work for working people, not just for the billionaires and Mr. Musk."
Earlier this week, Shopify CEO Tobi Lutke issued a memo announcing that the company will only recruit new workers if they can <a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44678363/shopify-ceo-tobi-lutke-says-employees-must-prove-ai-cant-handle-their-tasks-before-requesting-more-headcount">prove that AI cannot be used to do the job</a>. Sanders&#8217; warning appears even more stark in light of this new development.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44673195/you-have-defeated-the-wealthiest-person-on-earth-says-bernie-sanders-as-he-applauds-wisconsins-choice-of-susan-crawford">&#8216;You Have Defeated The Wealthiest Person On Earth,&#8217; Says Bernie Sanders As He Applauds Wisconsin&#8217;s Choice Of Susan Crawford</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Bernie Sanders Warns: 'The Job You Have Today Ain't Going To Be Here In 10 Or 15 Years,' As AI And Robotics Threaten US Workforce

Management

IAUX

i-80 GOLD President & Chief Operating Officer Matthew Gili To Step Down; New COO Search Begins

Health Care

BRKR

Bruker To Partner With Ridom For NGS Bioinformatics Applications In Microbiology And Infectious Disease Testing

UNTY

Unity Bancorp Q1 Customer Deposits Increase 4.82% To $90.7M

Unity Bancorp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNTY#NASDAQ">UNTY</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $1.13 per share which met the analyst consensus estimate. This is a 21.51 percent increase over earnings of $0.93 per share from the same period last year.

Earnings

Unity Bancorp Q1 EPS $1.13, Inline

Dividends

BlackRock Announces Increase Of 2% In Quarterly Cash Dividend Per Share To $5.21 From $5.10 Year Ago

BlackRock (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $11.30 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $11.14 by 1.44 percent. This is a 15.19 percent increase over earnings of $9.81 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $5.28 billion which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $5.60 billion by 5.72 percent. This is a 11.59 percent increase over sales of $4.73 billion the same period last year.

Earnings Beats

Earnings Misses

BlackRock Q1 2025 Adj EPS $11.30 Beats $11.14 Estimate, Sales $5.28B Miss $5.60B Estimate

Mira Murati, the former chief technology officer of ChatGPT-parent OpenAI, is reportedly seeking to raise a staggering $2 billion seed round for her new AI venture, Thinking Machines Lab.
What Happened: The amount is twice the amount Murati was targeting just under two months ago, when she was said to be seeking around $1 billion at a $9 billion valuation, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/mira-murati-new-ai-startup-thinking-machines-funding-2025-4">reported</a> Business Insider, citing people familiar with the matter.
If confirmed, it would be one of the largest seed rounds in tech history, dwarfing previous records and reaffirming the continued investor frenzy around artificial intelligence.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/03/44566020/arm-aims-for-50-data-center-cpu-market-share-by-2025-challenging-intel-and-amd">Arm Aims for 50% Data Center CPU Market Share by 2025, Challenging Intel and AMD</a>
Consider OpenAI cofounder Ilya Sutskever, who raised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40722123/openai-co-founder-ilya-sutskevers-ai-startup-raises-1b-from-andreessen-horowitz-sequoia-as-sam-altma">$1 billion in seed funding</a> for his new venture, Safe Superintelligence — a company that has already been pegged with a massive <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43772135/ex-openai-chief-scientist-ilya-sutskevers-ai-startup-valued-at-30-billion-in-latest-funding-round-report">$30 billion valuation</a>.
Another notable example is Sierra, a conversational AI startup launched in 2023 by Bret Taylor, who also chairs OpenAI and previously co-led Salesforce. That company has reportedly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41591558/bret-taylors-ai-startup-sierra-hits-4-5b-valuation-just-a-year-after-launch-openai-chairs-latest-ven">reached a valuation of $4.5 billion</a>.
It also reflects a broader trend: seed rounds, especially in AI, are getting bigger. In 2015, the largest seed round was just $50 million. In 2025, PitchBook lists the largest closed seed at $200 million, <a href="https://fortune.com/2025/04/10/mira-murati-2-billion-seed-raise-ai-boom-economic-chaos/">noted</a> Fortune.
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: Murati launched Thinking Machines shortly after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41037848/openai-cto-mira-murati-steps-down-i-want-to-create-the-time-and-space-to-do-my-own-exploration-elon">departing OpenAI in late 2024</a>. Though details of the company's product or service remain vague, its website states its mission is "to make AI systems more widely understood, customizable, and generally capable."
Thinking Machines&#8217; <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43803027/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-and-sam-altmans-chatgpt-parent-bleed-talent-to-ex-open-ai-cto-mira-muratis-new-ai-venture">team includes OpenAI veterans</a> such as chief scientist John Schulman, who co-led the development of ChatGPT, and advisors Alec Radford and Bob McGrew. Schulman reportedly left Anthropic after a short tenure to reunite with Murati on the new venture.
Meanwhile, earlier this month, OpenAI also secured a historic $40 billion funding round, pushing its valuation to $300 billion. Major backers in the round include SoftBank Group (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>) and Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
According to data from PitchBook, this marks the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44580172/openai-finalizes-historic-40-billion-funding-round-valuing-company-at-300-billion-with-backing-from-softbank-and-microsoft">largest funding round ever recorded</a> and nearly doubles OpenAI's prior valuation of $157 billion.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/25/03/44554189/openai-and-microsoft-back-mcp-standard-in-major-shift-toward-interoperable-ai-agents-that-can-think-click-and-navigate-the-web-but-google-ceo-sundar-pichai-appears-to-be-mulling-over-it-in-shakespearean-fashion-to-mcp-or-not-to-mcp" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI And Microsoft Back MCP Standard For Web-Surfing AI Agents; Google&#8217;s Sundar Pichai Asks A Shakespearean Question</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Media

MSFT

SFTBF

SFTBY

Former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati Targets Record-Breaking $2 Billion Seed Round For New AI Startup

The European Union and China have agreed to explore setting minimum prices for Chinese-made electric vehicles as an alternative to tariffs imposed last year, a European Commission spokesperson said Thursday.
What Happened: EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic spoke with Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao within the past 24 hours, with negotiations set to begin immediately, reported Reuters.
The potential pricing agreement would replace EU tariffs currently ranging from 17.0% for BYD (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BYDDY#OTC">BYDDY</a>) to 35.3% for SAIC, on top of the standard 10% car import duty imposed last October.
&#8220;Any minimum prices would need to be as effective and enforceable as the EU tariffs,&#8221; Sefcovic has previously stated, noting that a single minimum price would likely be inadequate for complex products like cars.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44756353/xi-jinping-says-there-are-no-winners-in-tariff-war-as-china-slaps-125-tariffs-on-us-goods-urges-trump-to-immediately-correct-wrongdoings">Xi Jinping Says &#8216;There Are No Winners In Tariff War&#8217; As China Slaps 125% Tariffs On US Goods, Urges Trump To Immediately Correct &#8216;Wrongdoings&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: The negotiations come amid escalating global trade tensions, with U.S. President Donald Trump recently announcing sweeping new tariffs.
Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Elon Musk reportedly appealed directly to Trump to reverse these policies, advocating instead for a &#8220;free trade zone&#8221; between <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44735140/most-people-dont-have-the-balls-to-do-it-says-mark-cuban-praising-musk-for-going-all-in-with-his-own-money-for-his-startups">Europe and the United States</a>. &#8220;At the end of the day, I hope it&#8217;s agreed that both Europe and the United States should move ideally to a zero-tariff situation,&#8221; Musk said during an Italian political event.
Despite Musk&#8217;s significant <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/44679026/elon-musk-made-unsucessful-appeals-to-trump-to-reverse-new-tariffs-as-tesla-likely-to-take-a-hit-report">political contributions to Republicans and his advisory role to Trump</a>, his intervention has been unsuccessful. Tesla&#8217;s stock has declined by more than 33.45% this year amid market uncertainty.
Meanwhile, the U.S. electric vehicle <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44755934/us-q1-ev-sales-data-shows-106-yoy-growth-tesla-experiences-decline-but-still-dominates-domestic-ev-sales">market continues to grow</a>, with sales increasing 10.6% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2025. Tesla maintains market leadership with a 43.5% share despite an 8.6% sales decline, followed by General Motors Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>) at 8.9% and Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) at 7.7%.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/04/44754594/gold-miners-rally-as-bullion-hits-3212-record-trump-tariffs-fuel-over-20-year-to-date-surge-across-sector">Gold Miners Rally As Bullion Hits $3,212: Trump Tariffs Fuel Over 20% Year-To-Date Surge Across Sector</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.

BYDDY

TSLA

Europe, China Eye EV Price Pact To Avert Trump Tariff Escalation After Tesla CEO Elon Musk Pushes For Zero EU Tariffs Amid Declining Sales

The Trump administration announced a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/04/44721874/trumps-tariff-pause-saves-market-from-edge-of-the-cliff-dan-ives-says-biggest-wild-card-still-remains">90-day halt on most tariffs</a>, sending global stocks on the rise after a period of uncertainty. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has refused to implement a halt on the 25% Tariffs on the automotive sector, much to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44729157/michigan-auto-groups-criticize-trump-for-not-halting-auto-tariffs">criticism of stakeholders</a> in the automotive industry as well as policymakers.
What happened: In a new report published by Michigan-based Center for Automotive Research, the organization highlights how the Trump administration's 25% tariffs on the auto sector could cost the industry over $108 billion.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">&#x1f6a8; New CAR Analysis Alert! &#x1f6a8; We&#39;ve just released an analysis on the impact of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/tariffs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#tariffs</a> on imported <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/auto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#auto</a> parts &amp; light vehicles. The modern auto <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SupplyChain?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SupplyChain</a> is complex, and these tariffs have significant implications. Download the full report here: <a href="https://t.co/1kaa2dKlFQ">https://t.co/1kaa2dKlFQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sj1kaN5IRn">pic.twitter.com/Sj1kaN5IRn</a>
&mdash; Center for Automotive Research (@cargroup) <a href="https://twitter.com/cargroup/status/1910392994101862792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The report also shows that the administration's tariffs will cost the three Detroit-based auto manufacturers, namely General Motors Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>), Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>), and Jeep and Chrysler parent company Stellantis NV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STLA#NYSE">STLA</a>) nearly $42 billion.
Why it matters: The tariffs imposed on the Auto sector have forced companies to rethink their strategies. Stellantis scaled back on production in Canada and Mexico, which affected over 5 plants in the U.S., as the company also temporarily laid off 900 employees. Reports also suggest that General Motors has increased truck output at a plant in Indiana.
CAR says the study emphasizes the complexity of the modern automotive supply chain. Dr. K. Venkatesh Prasad, who is the Senior Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer at CAR, said, "automakers and their suppliers are often multinational companies with facilities spread out across the world, making it difficult to discern how much of a vehicle is domestically produced."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">DO NOT RETALIATE AND YOU WILL BE REWARDED
&mdash; The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1910058352278708638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
This study comes in as the Trump administration shows no sign of backing down from its trade war with China, imposing a 125% tariff on Chinese goods. China responded with 84% tariffs on U.S. imports. The White House handle also shared a post on the social media platform X, warning countries to ‘not retaliate'.
Price action: STLA stock experienced a 30.28% year-to-date decline, currently trading at $8.91, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility">following this link.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44705972/ford-motor-general-motors-to-witness-higher-demand-as-american-automotives-reap-the-fruit-of-protectionism-says-expert-heres-a-list-of-potential-gainers-and-losers">Ford, GM To Witness &#8216;Higher Demand&#8217; As American Carmakers Set To &#8216;Reap The Fruit Of Protectionism,&#8217; Says Expert: Here&#8217;s A List Of Potential Gainers And Losers From Trump Tariffs</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

FORD

STLA

Trump's 25% Tariffs Could Cost Auto Companies $108 Billion: Report

U.S. stock futures were volatile on Friday after losing steam on Thursday. Futures of major benchmark indices were lower in premarket.
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics on Thursday showed the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/25/04/44733390/march-inflation-rate-cools-far-more-than-expected-raises-hopes-for-near-term-fed-rate-cuts"> annual inflation rate falling</a> to a six-month low of 2.4% in March, down from 2.8% in February and below the expected 2.6%.
Monthly, the Consumer Price Index contracted by 0.1%, a decrease from the previous month&#8217;s 0.2% increase and below the anticipated 0.1% rise, marking the lowest monthly reading since May 2020.
Investors will keep an eye on the headline and core producer price index data for March and April&#8217;s consumer sentiment data, slated to be released later today. Major banks will kick off the earnings season as they report earnings before the market opens on Friday.
The 10-year Treasury bond yielded 4.40% and the two-year bond was at 3.80%. The CME Group's FedWatch <a href="https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/interest-rates/cme-fedwatch-tool.html">tool</a>&#8216;s projections show markets pricing a 61.6% likelihood of the Federal Reserve keeping the current interest rates unchanged in its May meeting. 
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Futures</td>
<td>Change (+/-)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>-0.49%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>-0.34%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq 100</td>
<td>-0.33%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>-0.32%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), which track the S&amp;P 500 index and Nasdaq 100 index, respectively, were lower in premarket on Friday. The SPY was down 0.52% to $521.85, while the QQQ declined 0.58% to $443.60, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a> data.
Cues From Last Session:
Energy, information technology, and communication services sectors led Thursday&#8217;s U.S. stock market decline, overshadowing a rise in consumer staples.
The broader market saw the Dow Jones briefly plunge over 1,000 points as investors considered economic risks despite a newly announced 90-day tariff pause.
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) was down 4%, Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) declined 6%, and Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) slipped 7% as these were the significant individual stock decliners.
On the economic front, the Consumer Price Index fell to 2.4% in March, below expectations, with monthly inflation turning negative for the first time since May 2020.
After Thursday&#8217;s fall, the Nasdaq 100 index was 17.46% lower than its previous high of 22,222.61 points. The S&amp;P 500 index was down 14.31% from its record of 6,147.43 points, and the Dow Jones declined 12.16% from its 52-week high of 45,073.63 points.
The Dow Jones index dropped 1,015 points or 2.50% to 39,593.66, whereas the S&amp;P 500 index declined 3.46% to 5,268.05. Nasdaq Composite tumbled to end 4.31% lower at 16,387.31, and the small-cap gauge, Russell 2000, slipped 4.27% to 1,831.39.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Index</td>
<td>Performance (+/-)</td>
<td>Value</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nasdaq Composite</td>
<td>-4.31%</td>
<td>16,387.31</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>S&amp;P 500</td>
<td>-3.46%</td>
<td>5,268.05</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dow Jones</td>
<td>-2.50%</td>
<td>39,593.66</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Russell 2000</td>
<td>-4.27%</td>
<td>1,831.39</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
Insights From Analysts:
As the U.S. Core consumer price inflation excluding food and energy moved down to 2.81%, the lowest level since March 2021. And the overall U.S. CPI moved down to 2.39% in March, the lowest level since February 2021.
&#8220;Fed is likely to cut rates again on June 18th,&#8221; said Charlie Bilello from Creative Planning in an X post.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Overall US CPI moved down to 2.39% in March, the lowest level since February 2021. US Core CPI (ex-Food/Energy) moved down to 2.81%, the lowest level since March 2021. Based on this data the Fed is likely to cut rates again on June 18th (25 bps cut down to 4.00-4.25%). <a href="https://t.co/2qI8nO4nDz">pic.twitter.com/2qI8nO4nDz</a>
&mdash; Charlie Bilello (@charliebilello) <a href="https://twitter.com/charliebilello/status/1910313873929892200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
He added that this data &#8220;should be enough for the Fed to resume cutting rates in June.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">US Core CPI Inflation is back below 3% for the first time in 4 years. This should be enough for the Fed to resume cutting rats in June.<a href="https://t.co/l5IYmkeySJ">https://t.co/l5IYmkeySJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/pvOHrTLqaL">pic.twitter.com/pvOHrTLqaL</a>
&mdash; Charlie Bilello (@charliebilello) <a href="https://twitter.com/charliebilello/status/1910315991218659582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
As tech stocks experienced significant volatility following President Donald Trump‘s tariff announcements, Alexander Morris, CEO of F/m Investments, viewed the pullback as a buying opportunity for select Magnificent 7 companies.
"We have long been investors in the Mag 7 — not all of them, but a handful of them — and you'll see us more into some Apple, which seems to be at a discount," Morris told Reuters. "We picked up some Meta, which seemed to have done well."
Morris recommends investors maintain a disciplined portfolio allocation, like a 60-40 mix, through market volatility, noting the repeated resurgence of such strategies.
He advises choosing an allocation and sticking with it through market cycles until life events necessitate a change, emphasizing its self-balancing nature. Morris also cautions against market timing, as significant returns often occur within a few key days throughout the year.
&#8220;The concern going forward is that prices will rise and the economy will slow,&#8221; said Cooper Howard, director, fixed income strategy at the Schwab Center for Financial Research. &#8220;This will put the Fed in a difficult place.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-trade-futures">How to Trade Futures </a>
Upcoming Economic Data
Here&#8217;s what investors will keep an eye on Friday:
<ul>
<li>The headline and core producer price index data for March will be released by 8:30 a.m. ET.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>April&#8217;s preliminary consumer sentiment data will be announced, while St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem speaks at 10:00 a.m. ET.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>New York Fed President John Williams will speak at 11:00 a.m. ET.</li>
</ul>
Stocks In Focus:
<ul>
<li>Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>) was up 0.019% in premarket on Friday as it is expected to report earnings before the opening bell. Analysts expect a quarterly earnings of $2.20 per share on revenue of $16.57 billion.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Wells Fargo &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>) was 1.13% lower as Wall Street expects it to report earnings of $1.24 per share on revenue of $20.75 billion before the opening bell.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) rose 0.7% as it is expected to report earnings before the opening bell. Analysts expect a quarterly earnings of $4.61 per share on revenue of $44.11 billion.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Bank of New York Mellon Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BK#NYSE">BK</a>) dropped 1.16% as Wall Street expects it to report earnings of $1.51 per share on revenue of $4.77 billion before the opening bell.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>BlackRock Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) was 0.14% higher as it is expected to report earnings before the opening bell. Analysts expect a quarterly earnings of $11.19 per share on revenue of $5.53 billion.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Fastenal Co. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) was 0.32% lower as Wall Street expects it to report earnings of 52 cents per share on revenue of $1.95 billion before the opening bell.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Stellantis NV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STLA#NYSE">STLA</a>) declined 1.68% after reporting estimated consolidated shipments for the three months ending March 31 at 1.2 million units, representing a 9% year-on-year decline.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>MSP Recovery Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSPR#NASDAQ">MSPR</a>) surged 171.88% after securing massive $1.2 billion debt relief via strategic partnerships and creation of an independent servicer.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Calamos Global Dynamic Income Fund (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CHW#NASDAQ">CHW</a>) jumped 43.10% after strategically choosing Pretoria&#8217;s LightDeepEarth as its preferred assay lab to boost assay result turnaround for its Heavy Mineral Sands program and improve operational efficiency.</li>
</ul>
Commodities, Gold, And Global Equity Markets:
Crude oil futures were trading higher in the early New York session by 0.15% to hover around $60.22 per barrel.
Gold Spot US Dollar advanced 1.30% to hover around $3,216.91 per ounce. Its fresh record high stood at $3,227.23 per ounce. The U.S. Dollar Index spot was lower by 1.69% at the 99.163 level.
Asian markets were mixed on Friday as India's S&amp;P BSE Sensex, China&#8217;s CSI 300, and Hong Kong's Hang Seng index advanced. Whereas, Japan's Nikkei 225, Australia's ASX 200, and South Korea's Kospi index declined. European markets were mostly lower in early trade.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44728276/spy-qqq-call-volumes-spiked-minutes-before-tariff-pause-announcement-alexandria-ocasio-cortez-demands-disclosure-from-congress-members">SPY, QQQ Call Volumes Spiked Minutes Before Tariff Pause Announcement: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Demands Disclosure From Congress Members</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Equities

Market Summary

Bonds

Guidance

Futures

Treasuries

Economics

Federal Reserve

Pre-Market Outlook

ETFs

AAPL

FAST

MSPR

NVDA

US Stocks Likely To Open Lower As Volatility Persists Before Bank Earnings: 'Fed Is Likely To Cut Rates Again On June 18th,' Says Expert

<a href="https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/stock-market-trump-tariffs-trade-war-04-11-25?mod=WSJ_home_mediumtopper_pos_1" title="https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/stock-market-trump-tariffs-trade-war-04-11-25?mod=WSJ_home_mediumtopper_pos_1">https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/stock-market-trump-tariffs-trade-war-04-11-25?mod=WSJ_home_mediumtopper_pos_1</a>

Macro Economic Events

China's Finance Ministry Earlier Announced It Will Raise Additional Tariffs On U.S. Goods To 125% From 84%

<a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-suspends-taking-new-orders-model-s-model-x-chinese-website-2025-04-11/" title="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-suspends-taking-new-orders-model-s-model-x-chinese-website-2025-04-11/">https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-suspends-taking-new-orders-model-s-model-x-chinese-website-2025-04-11/</a>

Reuters Reported Earlier, Tesla Stopped Taking New Orders For Model S And Model X On It's Chinese Website

Press Releases

Essential Utilities Earns Newsweek's 'America's Most Responsible Companies' Recognition for Fourth Consecutive Year

Aqua Pennsylvania Awarded Nearly $29 Million in Funding to Remove PFAS from Drinking Water Across Commonwealth

Aqua Pennsylvania Acquires Greenville Sanitary Authority Wastewater System in Mercer County

Essential Utilities Declares June 2025 Dividend

Essential Utilities Reports Financial Results for Full Year 2024

Essential Utilities Announces Ed Vallejo as New Investor Relations Director

Aqua Pennsylvania Reminds Customers to Apply for 2025 Water and Wastewater Bill Assistance

Essential Utilities Marks Five Years of Strength, Innovation and Growth

Essential Utilities Reminds Customers and Contractors to Practice Safe Digging by Calling 811

Essential Utilities Strengthens America's Infrastructure Through $1B+ Capital Improvement Program

WTRG

Artesian Resources Corporation - Class A Non-Voting Common Stock

Artesian Resources

American Water Works Company, Inc. Common Stock

American Water Works Co

American States Water Company Common Stock

American States Water

Cadiz

Consolidated Water Co. Ltd. - Ordinary Shares

Consolidated Water Co

California Water Service Group Common Stock

California Water Servs Gr

Global Water Resources, Inc. - common stock

Global Water Resources

Middlesex Water

Pure Cycle

Companhia de saneamento Basico Do Estado De Sao Paulo - Sabesp American Depositary Shares (Each repstg 250 Common Shares)

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