Before he became the richest man in the world, Elon Musk set out to prove something to himself—that if all his bold ideas failed, he could still survive in America. Literally.



In a 2015 interview with astrophysicist <a href="https://startalkmedia.com/show/the-future-of-humanity-with-elon-musk/">Neil deGrasse Tyson on StarTalk Radio</a>, Musk reflected on his early mindset, revealing just how far he went to test his personal threshold for survival. At the time, he had already founded Tesla and SpaceX, but the conversation turned to a much earlier phase in his life—just after college, when he first arrived in the U.S.



"In America, it's pretty easy to keep yourself alive," Musk told Tyson. "So my threshold for existing is pretty low. I figure I could be in some dingy apartment with my computer and be okay and not starve."



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So that's exactly what he tested. Musk challenged himself to live on just $1 a day for food. His grocery list? Hot dogs, oranges, pasta, and bulk green peppers with a big jar of sauce.



"You get really tired of hot dogs and oranges after a while," he admitted, laughing. "And of course pasta and a green pepper and a big thing of sauce. That can go pretty far, too."



He wasn't trying to impress anyone—he just wanted to prove that even if every business venture failed, he wouldn't. "If I can live for a dollar a day, then at least from a food cost standpoint, well it's pretty easy to earn like $30 in a month anyway, so I'll probably be okay."



Musk immigrated to the U.S. from South Africa in the mid-1990s, during his early twenties. By 1995, after earning degrees in physics and economics from the University of Pennsylvania, he co-founded his first startup, Zip2. Back then, money was so tight that he and his brother Kimbal slept in the office and showered at the local YMCA.



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



At the time, a dollar stretched further. In the mid-90s, the average cost of a loaf of bread was under $1, and hot dogs ran about $1.29 per pound. By comparison, the average cost of hot dogs today has soared to over $5.22 per pound. Inflation has made Musk's once-thrifty diet virtually impossible to replicate. Even pasta—once a budget staple—is now often $1.50 to $2 a box, and fresh produce prices have more than doubled since his college days.



Now, decades later, he controls some of the most valuable companies in the world and has an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/25/01/43101102/elon-musk-the-richest-man-in-the-world-is-estimated-to-earn-over-23-million-every-single-hour-of-the-day-heres-how-hes-spending-it">estimated net worth topping $340 billion</a>, according to Forbes and Bloomberg. But that extreme frugality never really left him.&nbsp;



Musk has said he doesn't own a yacht or even a home, doesn't take vacations, and considers his private jet—used for work—his largest personal expense. "It would be very problematic if I was spending billions of dollars a year in personal consumption," he said in a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/cdZZpaB2kDM?si=qTBimIpxJtYaJxm9">2022 TED interview with Chris Anderson</a>. He added, "but that is not the case."



See Also: Invest early in CancerVax's breakthrough tech aiming to disrupt a $231B market. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-company-may-have-found-a-way-to-treat-cancer-by-tricking-the-bodys-immune-system-and-early-studies-show-some-promise-find-out-how-you-can-invest-in-the-future-of-cancer-treatment">Back a bold new approach to cancer treatment with high-growth potential.</a>



Today, spending just $1 a day on food in America seems laughable, especially with inflation and rising grocery prices. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, <a href="https://www.fns.usda.gov/research/cnpp/usda-food-plans">the average cost of food per person per month in 2024</a> was over $300—even on a thrifty plan.



And for context: a $1 daily food budget in today's economy breaks down to 33 cents per meal—less than a single egg, a slice of bread, or even half a banana in most U.S. cities. For millions of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43748849/food-prices-are-expected-to-keep-rising-in-2025-ramsey-solutions-explains-why-grocery-prices-are-so-high-offers-tips-for-saving">Americans now facing food insecurity,</a> that number isn't just unrealistic—it's unthinkable.



Still, Musk's point wasn't about inflation or cuisine—it was about fear. Or rather, the absence of it. He believed that if he could handle having nothing, he could risk everything. That mindset helped him bet big on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/25/05/45480331/elon-musk-says-earth-only-has-10-of-its-life-left-before-its-incinerated-by-the-sun-calls-colonizing-mars-humanitys-life-insurance-polic">rockets, electric cars, solar panels</a>—and win.



So yes, Musk once lived off hot dogs and oranges. Not because he had to. Because he needed to know he could.



Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.



Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

Elon Musk Said 'In America, It's Pretty Easy To Keep Yourself Alive' — So He Challenged Himself To Live On $1 A Day, Eating Hot Dogs And Oranges

In the holiday-shortened week, these ten large-cap stocks were the worst performers. Are they a part of your portfolio?



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>AppLovin Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APP#NASDAQ">APP</a>) stock fell 14.68% last week, continuing its fall after a short-sell report <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/short-ideas/25/06/45910389/short-seller-says-applovin-is-desperate-and-doomed-shares-slide" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">issued by Culper Research</a>.</li>



<li>First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>) stock lost 13.6% last week amid a broader decline in solar stocks after the U.S. Senate Finance Committee unveiled its version of President Trump's tax bill, which <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45971345" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">slashed renewable energy incentives</a>.</li>



<li>James Hardie Industries plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JHX#NYSE">JHX</a>) stock declined 11.23%.</li>



<li>BeOne Medicines Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONC#NASDAQ">ONC</a>) stock dipped 10.65% last week.</li>



<li>GlaxoSmithKline plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>) stock dropped 10.4% last week.</li>



<li>Accenture plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACN#NYSE">ACN</a>) stock fell 10.3% amid a selloff following the company's Q3 financial results.</li>



<li>Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANET#NYSE">ANET</a>) stock declined 9.94% amid a tech sector pullback driven by rising Middle East tensions between Israel and Iran.</li>



<li>Li Auto Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LI#NASDAQ">LI</a>) stock fell 9.91% amid China's suspension of trade-in subsidies for EVs and fuel-efficient cars in key urban markets.</li>



<li>Corpay, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CPAY#NYSE">CPAY</a>) stock fell 9.64% last week amid pressure from Coinbase Global&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) announcement of its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/46004688" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">new stablecoin payments</a> stack, which may impact Corpay's business outlook.</li>



<li>Mastercard Incorporated (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) stock lowered 9.56% last week amid a broader selloff in credit card stocks following Coinbase's launch of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/46004688" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">its stablecoin payments infrastructure</a>.</li>
</ol>



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/46043524/ast-spacemobile-and-coinbase-global-are-among-top-10-large-cap-gainers-last-week-june-16-20-are-the-others-in-your-portfolio">AST SpaceMobile And Coinbase Global Are Among Top 10 Large Cap Gainers Last Week (June 16-20): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?</a></li>
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AppLovin, First Solar And Li Auto Are Among Top 10 Large Cap Losers Last Week (June 16-20): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

The past week in tech has been nothing short of exciting, with major companies making bold moves and industry leaders voicing their opinions. From Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) battling with OpenAI for top talent, to YouTube&#8217;s upcoming integration of advanced AI video tools, the landscape is rapidly evolving. Meanwhile, Elon Musk has been vocal about the inflated valuations of AI startups, and Amazon&#8217;s CEO has touted the transformative potential of Generative AI. Here&#8217;s a recap of the top stories.



Meta&#8217;s Battle with OpenAI for Talent Meta&#8217;s billion-dollar hiring spree in AI has hit a snag, according to CTO Andrew Bosworth. OpenAI is not letting its top minds go without a fight and is actively countering Meta&#8217;s lucrative job offers. This revelation came during Bosworth&#8217;s interview with CNBC&#8217;s Closing Bell Overtime on Friday.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46041399/meta-tried-luring-openais-top-minds-with-massive-paychecks-but-sam-altman-neglected-to-mention-that-hes-countering-those-offers-says-andrew-bosworth">Read the full article here.</a>



YouTube Shorts to Feature Veo 3 AI Video Tools YouTube, a subsidiary of 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>), is set to integrate Google&#8217;s latest generative AI video model, Veo 3, into YouTube Shorts. This announcement was made by YouTube CEO Neal Mohan during a keynote at the Cannes Lions Festival.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46011121/youtube-shorts-will-soon-feature-veo-3-ai-video-tools-with-audio-and-higher-quality-but-creators-may-need-a-paid-plan">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46037332/bitcoin-ethereum-xrp-dogecoin-pull-back-after-technical-rejection-no-one-wants-to-be-long-into-the-weekend" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin Pull Back After Technical Rejection &#8211; Benzinga</a>



Elon Musk&#8217;s Take on AI Startup Valuations Elon Musk has criticized the current AI startup landscape, stating that the hype has led to inflated startup prices. He referred to these startups as a &#8220;herd of unicorns&#8221; during his talk at Y Combinator&#8217;s AI Startup School.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45989519/elon-musk-blames-ai-hype-for-1-billion-startup-valutions-there-are-so-many-frickin-unicorns">Read the full article here.</a>



Meta&#8217;s AI Smart Glasses Collaboration Meta is teaming up with EssilorLuxottica to launch new AI-powered smart glasses under the Oakley and Prada brands. This follows the success of the second-generation Ray-Ban smart glasses, which were launched in 2023 through a partnership between Meta and Luxottica.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/06/45987099/meta-teams-up-with-oakley-prada-for-next-gen-ai-smart-glasses">Read the full article here.</a>



Amazon&#8217;s Embrace of Generative AI Amazon.com Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) CEO, Andy Jassy, highlighted the company&#8217;s extensive use of Generative AI in a recent blog post. Jassy described such technologies as rare and transformative, justifying Amazon&#8217;s aggressive investment.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45982631/amazon-ceo-says-generative-ai-will-reduce-total-corporate-workforce">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/46024990/a-millennial-says-the-older-i-get-and-the-further-in-my-career-i-go-the-more-i-realize-how-deadly-acc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">A Millennial Says, The Older I Get And The Further In My Career I Go, The More I Realize How Deadly Accurate &#8216;Office Space&#8217; Was</a>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



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

Tech

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GOOGL

Meta's Battle With OpenAI, Youtube Innovations, And Billion-Dollar Unicorns: This Week In AI

In the holiday-shortened week, these ten large-cap stocks were top performers. Are they a part of your portfolio?



<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Circle Internet Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRCL#NYSE">CRCL</a>) stock gained 125.53% last week after the U.S. Senate passed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/46034000" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the GENIUS Act</a>, which aims to regulate stablecoins. Seaport Global, which initiated coverage with a Buy rating and a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CRCL/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$235 price forecast</a>, also supported the rally.</li>



<li>Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) stock soared 27.93% last week after it launched its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/46004688" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Coinbase Payments stablecoin stack</a> and secured a crypto license in the EU.</li>



<li>AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASTS#NASDAQ">ASTS</a>) stock upped 24.43% after the company announced a partnership with Vodafone Idea to bring satellite broadband to smartphones in India. ASTS is also set to join the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/46033050" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russell 1000 Index on June 27</a>.</li>



<li>CoreWeave, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWV#NASDAQ">CRWV</a>) stock jumped 23.23% last week after BofA Securities downgraded the stock to Neutral but raised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CRWV/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast to $185</a>.</li>



<li>Symbotic Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYM#NASDAQ">SYM</a>) stock upped 21.39% last week.</li>



<li>Reddit, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDDT#NYSE">RDDT</a>) stock gained 19.75% after launching AI-powered <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45983296" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ad features</a> and gaining visibility as the second most cited source in Google's AI summaries.</li>



<li>QXO, Inc.'s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QXO#NYSE">QXO</a>) stock gained 18.36% last week after it proposed to acquire GMS <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/46009046" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for $95.20 per share in cash</a>.</li>



<li>Jabil Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBL#NYSE">JBL</a>) stock upped 15.14% after reporting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45972232" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">strong Q3 earnings and revenue</a>, prompting several analysts to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/JBL/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raise their price forecast</a>.</li>



<li>Credo Technology Group Holding Ltd (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRDO#NASDAQ">CRDO</a>) stock jumped 15.03% last week. The stock has been gaining since June 2, when it reported better-than-expected Q4 results and received analyst upgrades.</li>



<li>Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RKLB#NASDAQ">RKLB</a>) stock jumped 13.79% after a public spat between Elon Musk and Donald Trump spurred speculation around Rocket Lab's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/46002335" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">potential role in Trump's Golden Dome</a> missile defense system, highlighting its position in national security space tech.</li>
</ol>



Read Next:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46043303/consumer-tech-news-june-16-june-20-fed-holds-rates-trump-eyes-iran-moves-apple-taps-ai-accenture-shifts-strategy">Consumer Tech News (June 16-June 20): Fed Holds Rates, Trump Eyes Iran Moves, Apple Taps AI, Accenture Shifts Strategy</a>



Photo by Primakov via Shutterstock

ASTS

CRCL

CRDO

CRWV

RDDT

RKLB

AST SpaceMobile And Coinbase Global Are Among Top 10 Large Cap Gainers Last Week (June 16-20): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

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



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



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



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



Earnings Results



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



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



Technology



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



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



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



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



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



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



Artificial Intelligence (AI)



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



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



Automobiles



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



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



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



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

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



Apple Considers Acquisition of Perplexity AI



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



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



Massive Data Leak Exposes Billions of Login Records



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



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



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



Apple to Use AI for Speeding Up Custom Chip Design



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



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



Apple Avoids $300 Million Patent Penalty



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



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



Apple Extends iOS 26 Feature to Third-Party Apps



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



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



Photo courtesy: jamesteohart / Shutterstock.com



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

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

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



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



Anduril And Palantir Founders Back Crypto-Friendly Startup Bank



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



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



Circle&#8217;s Stock Skyrockets By 540%



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



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



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



Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Remain Rangebound



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



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



Dogecoin Could See A 60% Move



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



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



Elizabeth Warren&#8217;s Warning on Stablecoins



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



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



Read Next:



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



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



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Cryptocurrency

Media

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

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



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



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



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



Powell Holds Steady On Interest Rates



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



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



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



Swiss Interest Rate Hits Zero



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



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



Rate Cut Odds Amid Middle East Tensions



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



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



Powell Blames Tariffs For Inflation



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



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



Read More:&nbsp;



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



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



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Economics

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Waller is a Trump appointee.



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Now Read:



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



Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Government

Macro Economic Events

Regulations

Econ #s

Federal Reserve

ENPH

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

The past week has been a rollercoaster ride in the tech and auto sectors. From&nbsp;Tesla Inc. making headlines with its upcoming Robotaxi launch to&nbsp;Boeing Co. facing safety concerns, there&#8217;s a lot to unpack.



Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories of the week.



Tesla&#8217;s Robotaxi Launch Could Be Key To $310 Price Target



Gary Black, managing director of Future Fund LLC, has set a $310 price target for Tesla Inc. ahead of the company&#8217;s Robotaxi launch in Austin on June 22. Black shared his insights on the potential impact of the Robotaxi launch on Tesla&#8217;s stock performance on a social media platform.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45991403/teslas-robotaxi-launch-could-be-key-to-310-price-target-says-gary-black">Read the full article here.</a>



Boeing Faces Backlash After Fatal Aircrash



Boeing Co. has been under scrutiny following a fatal air crash in India&#8217;s Ahmedabad. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner, operated by Air India, crashed into a residential area shortly after takeoff, leading to serious questions about the safety and quality of Boeing aircraft.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45991614/if-its-boeing-im-not-going-why-some-people-are-turning-their-backs-on-the-american-plane-maker-in-favor-of-rival-airbus">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46039679/just-as-tesla-lined-up-its-big-move-waymo-went-bigger" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Just As Tesla Lined Up Its Big Move, Waymo Went Bigger</a>



Tesla&#8217;s Production Cost Advantage Over Waymo



Tesla Inc. is reportedly closer to achieving full autonomy than competitors like Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s autonomous driving company, Waymo. This is largely due to Tesla&#8217;s ability to produce cars at a fraction of the price, allowing for more vehicles on the road.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45966726/tesla-vehicle-production-cost-1-7-that-of-waymo-elon-musks-ev-giant-closer-to-full-autonomy-than-competition-report">Read the full article here.</a>



BYD Surpasses Tesla In Global EV Sales



Tesla Inc. has been outpaced in global sales for the first time by rival BYD Co. Ltd. According to the International Council on Clean Transportation, Chinese automakers are building significant leads in the zero-emission vehicle market.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45969242/elon-musk-has-a-new-problem-byd-beats-tesla-in-global-ev-sales-amid-europe-expansion">Read the full article here.</a>



Ford Recalls Over 197,000 Vehicles



Ford Motor Co.&nbsp;has issued a recall for more than 197,000 vehicles due to a backseat issue that could potentially trap occupants inside the vehicle. The recall affects Ford Mustang Mach-E models from 2021-2025.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46012477/ford-recalls-over-197000-vehicles-for-backseat-issue-that-could-trap-occupants-in-emergency-situations">Read the full article here.</a>



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<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46022793/nio-sets-stage-for-chip-arm-spin-off-eyes-external-clients-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIO Sets Stage For Chip Arm Spin-Off, Eyes External Clients: Report</a></li>
</ul>



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



Photo courtesy: Ken Wolter / Shutterstock.com

Tesla's Robotaxi, Boeing's Safety Concerns And Ford's Massive Recall: This Week In Mobility

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



California vs. Trump: The National Guard Dispute Intensifies



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



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



Iranian Official Calls on Trump to End Conflict with Israel



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



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



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



Elon Musk Steps Away from Politics



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



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



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



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



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



Musk Responds to Trump&#8217;s Drug Accusations



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



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



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



Photo courtesy: Maxim Elramsisy / Shutterstock.com



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

Politics

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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Photo: Shutterstock

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

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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="501" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957090" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457-300x150.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457-768x385.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="502" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957091" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458-768x387.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>



Millicom International Cellular (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TIGO#NASDAQ">TIGO</a>): The Latin American telecommunications company saw increased interest from readers during the week, which could be related to the closing of an acquisition. Millicom recently <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/06/13/3099331/0/en/Millicom-Tigo-Strengthens-South-American-Leadership-with-USD-380-Million-Acquisition-of-Telef%C3%B3nica-Ecuador.html">closed </a>the acquisition of Telefónica's telecommunications operations in Ecuador. The deal valued at $380 million will help strengthen Millicom's presence in the company and continued expansion in South America. The company highlighted favorable demographics for Ecuador that could see increased consumer spending and mobile growth. Millicom servs over 46 million customers in its regions. Shares of the company were down on a Scotiabank analyst downgrade during the week, but the stock remains up 43% year-to-date in 2025.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957092" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="507" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957093" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957094" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464-768x388.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>



Stay tuned for next week's report, and follow Benzinga Pro for all the latest headlines and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0620" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>



Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:



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



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



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



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



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



Read Next:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45932660/exclusive-sp-500-new-all-time-highs-again-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: S&amp;P 500 To Hit New All-Time Highs Again In 2025? Majority Say Yes, 27% Predict This Range</a></li>
</ul>

Exclusives

Trading Ideas

RBLX

SSNC

TIGO

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

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



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



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



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



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







The Bulls



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



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



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



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



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



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



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







The Bears



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



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



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



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



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



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



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







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



Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

APVO

HUSA

JBLU

OKLO

URNM

XAIR

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

In the wake of President Donald Trump&#8216;s disclosure of U.S. airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear facilities, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) has called on Americans to pray for protection from potential terrorist attacks.



What Happened: In a post on X, she urged Americans to &#8220;unite&nbsp;and pray for the safety&nbsp;of our U.S. troops and&nbsp;Americans in the Middle East.&#8221; Greene also called for prayers for the U.S. to avoid terrorist attacks, citing the open border over the past four years and the entry of over 2 million &#8220;gotaways.&#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">Let us join together and pray for the safety of our U.S. troops and Americans in the Middle East. &#x1f64f; Let us pray that we are not attacked by terrorists on our homeland after our border was open for the past 4 years and over 2 Million gotaways came in.&#x1f64f; Let us pray for peace.…&mdash; Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene&#x1f1fa;&#x1f1f8; (@RepMTG) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMTG/status/1936595045215527336?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



The President&#8217;s announcement, made&nbsp;at 7:50 pm on Saturday, detailed the successful strikes on three Iranian nuclear sites, namely Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. He applauded &#8220;our great American Warriors&#8221; and expressed hopes for peace.



Greene, a staunch Trump ally, has been an outspoken critic of U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict. She has consistently voted against pro-Israel bills in the House and has publicly voiced her dissatisfaction with the hawkish faction of the GOP.



Als<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46043305/donald-trump-announces-spectacular-military-success-as-us-strikes-key-iranian-nuclear-sites">o Read: Donald Trump Announces &#8216;Spectacular Military Success&#8217; As US Strikes Key Iranian Nuclear Sites</a>



Greene had earlier campaigned against foreign wars and expressed her disapproval of bombing foreign nations on behalf of others, particularly those possessing&nbsp;their own nuclear weapons and&nbsp;significant military power.



Why It Matters: Greene&#8217;s response to Trump&#8217;s announcement underscores her long-standing stance against U.S. intervention in foreign conflicts. Her call for prayers highlights the potential risks associated with such military actions, including the threat of retaliatory terrorist attacks. 



Her reference to the open border and the entry of &#8220;gotaways&#8221; suggests a link between immigration policy and national security, a contentious issue that continues to divide lawmakers. 



The response also reflects the ongoing debate within the GOP about the U.S.&#8217;s role in international conflicts, particularly in the Middle East.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46042298/trump-publicly-contradicts-dni-gabbards-claim-that-iran-lacks-nuclear-capabilities-shes-wrong" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Publicly Contradicts DNI Gabbard's Claim That Iran Lacks Nuclear Capabilities: ‘She's Wrong'</a>



Image: Shutterstock/lev radin

Marjorie Taylor Greene's Response To Trump Bombing Iran: 'Let Us Pray That We Are Not Attacked By Terrorists On Our Homeland'

Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and her husband, venture capitalist Paul Pelosi, experienced a significant increase in their net worth in 2024.



What Happened: The Pelosis&#8217; net worth could now be as high as $413 million, up from a possible $370 million in 2023. The exact figure is unknown as lawmakers are only required to disclose ranges.



Market research firm&nbsp;Quiver Quantitative&nbsp;estimated the couple&#8217;s&nbsp;2024 worth at $257 million, a $26 million increase from the previous year. However, the value of their diverse ventures, including a Napa Valley winery&nbsp;and a stake in a&nbsp;Bay area Italian restaurant, could push Pelosi&#8217;s worth much higher.



As per the report <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/06/21/us-news/pelosi-added-millions-to-net-worth-last-year-report/">by</a> the New York Post, a substantial portion of their wealth comes from a significant stock portfolio and well-timed trades, primarily in Paul Pelosi&#8217;s name.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/01/30615682/elon-musk-apologizes-for-tweeting-conspiracy-theory-about-attack-on-nancy-pelosis-husband">Elon Musk Apologizes For Tweeting Conspiracy Theory About Attack On Nancy Pelosi&#8217;s Husband</a>



Notably, the couple sold 5,000 shares of&nbsp;Microsoft Corp.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)&nbsp;worth an estimated $2.2 million&nbsp;shortly before the Federal Trade Commission&nbsp;announced an antitrust investigation into&nbsp;the tech giant.



Despite some setbacks, their investment portfolio yielded&nbsp;an estimated 54% return in&nbsp;2024, outperforming the S&amp;P 500&#8217;s 25% gain and surpassing&nbsp;every large hedge fund, according&nbsp;to Bloomberg&#8217;s end-of-year tally.



Why It Matters: The financial success of the Pelosi couple comes at a time when there are increasing calls to prohibit Congress members from trading individual stocks. Critics argue that&nbsp;lawmakers have access to market-moving&nbsp;information before the public. 



Pelosi has previously rejected these calls, but recently softened her stance. This change in attitude could potentially impact future trading activities of lawmakers, and possibly even their net worth.



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<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/politics/25/04/45077654/bill-named-after-nancy-pelosi-could-ban-congress-members-from-trading-stocks-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-pelosi-act">Bill Named After Nancy Pelosi Could Ban Congress Members From Trading Stocks: What You Need To Know About The &#8216;PELOSI&#8217; Act</a>



Image: Shutterstock/Asatur Yesayants

Nancy Pelosi's Portfolio Crushed Wall Street Hedge Funds With Jaw-Dropping Returns Last Year

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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Image: Shutterstock

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

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