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Ibstock PLC is a manufacturer of building products with a varied range of clay and concrete products and solutions primarily to customers in the UK residential construction sector. Its product range includes clay bricks, brick components, concrete roof tiles, concrete stone masonry substitutes, concrete fencing, pre-stressed concrete products, and concrete rail products. The company's operating segment includes Clay and Concrete. It generates maximum revenue from the Clay segment.

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Billionaire entrepreneur and investor Mark Cuban, who owns the Dallas Mavericks, has transformed the lives of many of his employees by making them millionaires.
What Happened: After acquiring majority ownership of the Mavericks in 2000, Cuban, known for his innovative approach and genuine concern for his employees, aimed to make a significant impact on the franchise.
He held a strong belief in acknowledging the efforts of&nbsp;those who contributed to his&nbsp;success, a principle he adopted during his initial business endeavors.
Upon selling the Mavs in 2023, Cuban ensured that long-serving team employees received $35 million in bonuses that significantly altered their lives. His influence, however, was not limited to his employees. His investment in the team, facilities, fan experience, and talent attraction resulted in the Mavericks making their first playoff appearance in over a decade during the 2000-01 season.
&#8220;I&#8217;m not there without them; I did it with my first two companies, and I wanted to do the same with the Mavs. They were there for me the whole time; it was enough money that for those who were there 20 years or more, it was life-changing money,&#8221; Cuban <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-CbpEr5dXXw&amp;t=10s">said</a> in an interview.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42154924/mark-cubans-for-negotiation-success-silence-is-money">Mark Cuban&#8217;s For Negotiation Success: &#8216;Silence Is Money&#8217;</a>
"I did it with MicroSolutions, you know, we had 80 employees, they all got paid. I did it with Broadcast.com — out of 330 employees, 300 became millionaires. And I wanted to do the same thing with the Mavs. You know, they were there for me the whole time … for those who were there 20 years or more it was life-changing money," he added. 
Why It Matters: Cuban&#8217;s leadership and investment in the Mavericks not only led to the team&#8217;s first championship in franchise history in 2011 but also set a high standard for team ownership in the sports industry. 
His approach to rewarding employees has been seen as a benchmark for other franchises.
Read Next
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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Mark Cuban Hands Out $35M In Bonuses To Mavericks Employees: 'It Was Life-Changing Money'

Hong Kong-based gaming firm Boyaa Interactive has traded its Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) holdings for nearly $50 million in Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>). This strategic move comes as Bitcoin is on the brink of reaching a significant $100,000 price milestone.
What Happened: As per a company statement released on Friday, Boyaa Interactive has converted its Ethereum holdings into Bitcoin. The gaming giant exchanged 14,200 Ethereum (ETH) for approximately&nbsp;515 Bitcoin between November 19-28,&nbsp;thereby increasing their Bitcoin holdings to 3,183 BTC, valued at $310 million at the time of the announcement.
According to&nbsp;the <a href="https://www1.hkexnews.hk/listedco/listconews/sehk/2024/1129/2024112900231.pdf">statement</a>, the value of Boyaa&#8217;s Bitcoin stash is nearly triple that&nbsp;of Japanese investment firm Metaplanet's&nbsp;Bitcoin holdings, which are around $111 million. Boyaa had initially acquired its Ethereum tokens&nbsp;for $39.45 million, at an&nbsp;average price of $2,777 per&nbsp;token.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42155055/crypto-analyst-bitcoin-poised-to-skyrocket-to-180k-and-eventually-top-1m">Crypto Analyst: Bitcoin Poised To Skyrocket To $180K and &#8216;Eventually&#8217; Top $1M</a>
This considerable Bitcoin acquisition is in line with Boyaa&#8217;s wider strategy to invest in digital assets. In the previous year, the company had committed to investing&nbsp;up to $100 million in&nbsp;cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, and&nbsp;stablecoins.
Why It Matters: Boyaa Interactive is not the only company to bolster its Bitcoin reserves. Other major firms like Metaplanet and&nbsp;MicroStrategy Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) have also been increasing their Bitcoin holdings. 
MicroStrategy recently announced the purchase of an additional 55,500 BTC, worth $5.4 billion, taking its total Bitcoin holdings to over $37 billion.
This trend indicates a growing interest and confidence in Bitcoin among major companies, despite the cryptocurrency&#8217;s notorious volatility. 
By diversifying their investments into digital assets, these firms are not only hedging against traditional market risks but also positioning themselves to benefit from potential future gains in the cryptocurrency market.
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

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$BTC

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MSTR

Gaming Company Bets Big On Bitcoin, Selling Ethereum For $50M Boost

If someone told you that earning $435,000 a year would make you one of the top 1% of earners in a U.S. state, you might scoff and guess somewhere obscure. But the real answer? It's West Virginia, where earning nearly half what's required in places like Connecticut or California can secure a spot <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/39069576/are-you-rich-heres-the-net-worth-you-need-to-be-poor-middle-class-and-wealthy">among the financial elite</a>.
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In West Virginia, an annual income of $435,302 gets you into the exclusive top 1% club. Compare that to Connecticut, where you'd need a whopping $1,192,947 or California at $1,072,248. The disparity is striking, but it highlights a deeper conversation about regional living costs, economic opportunities and what it means to feel "rich" in America.
How Does West Virginia Compare to Other States?
While West Virginia tops the charts for the lowest income threshold to join the top 1%, a few other states also have relatively "affordable" entries into the elite bracket:
<ul>
<li>Mississippi: $456,309</li>
<li>New Mexico: $493,013</li>
</ul>
These figures pale in comparison to states like New York, Massachusetts or even Texas, where top earners require closer to – or over – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/24/01/36665585/how-much-money-do-you-need-to-make-to-be-among-the-top-1-5-or-10-based-on-inc">a million dollars annually</a>.
See Also: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $100.</a>
What's the Average Salary in West Virginia?
As of 2024, the average salary in West Virginia is roughly $55,560 per year, significantly lower than the national average of around $74,000. This gap speaks volumes about the state's economic makeup. Many industries in West Virginia, like mining, manufacturing and health care, don't offer the kind of high salaries seen in tech or finance-driven states.
This contrast between average and elite incomes shows that while $435,000 might make you a top dog, most West Virginians live in a much more modest income range.
Trending: Groundbreaking trading app with a ‘Buy-Now-Pay-Later' feature for stocks tackles the $644 billion margin lending market –<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wolfpack"> here&#8217;s how to get equity in it with just $100</a>
Why Does It Take Less to Be Wealthy Here?
The reasons for West Virginia's lower threshold are pretty straightforward:
Cost of Living: West Virginia's cost of living is among the lowest in the nation. Essentials like housing, groceries and utilities cost significantly less than in coastal states.
Housing Market: Zillow reports the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/10/41541572/purely-supply-demand-imbalance-5-u-s-cities-with-homes-still-under-300k">average home value</a> in West Virginia is just $168,172, compared to the national median of $412,000. That's an enormous gap – and a huge factor in what a top salary can get you here.&nbsp;
Economic Landscape: The state lacks industries with high-paying jobs, like tech or investment banking. Fewer massive salaries mean the bar for the 1% stays lower.
Trending: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.
Does This Mean a Better Quality of Life?
Maybe. With a lower cost of living, $435,000 goes much further in West Virginia than in Connecticut or California. That money can buy a beautiful home, cover all your expenses and leave plenty for savings and vacations. For many, that's the dream.
But it's not all roses. The state's economic challenges mean fewer opportunities for upward mobility and fewer options for high-paying careers. The trade-off for affordability can be fewer chances to earn more.
See Also: These five entrepreneurs are worth $223 billion –<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-homes-private-credit-fund"> they all believe in one platform that offers a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends</a>
Would You Feel Rich Here?
Wealth is relative. A $435,000 salary in West Virginia is undeniably "rich." Still, it might not come with the same perks as being wealthy in a bigger city – fewer Michelin-starred restaurants, no bustling nightlife and fewer big-name career opportunities.
Would you trade the hustle of a high-cost state for the affordability and natural beauty of West Virginia? It all comes down to your priorities. If you're looking for a place where your <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/can-you-guess-how-many-americans-successfully-retire-with-1-million-saved">money stretches further</a>, West Virginia makes a strong case – especially for high-paid remote workers who aren't limited by the state's average income levels. It might just be the perfect blend of opportunity and simplicity.
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<li>Many are using this retirement income calculator to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a></li>
<li>Studies show 50% of consumers think Financial Advisors cost much more than they do —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/money-pickle"> to debunk this, this company provides matching for free and a complimentary first call with the matched advisor.</a></li>
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Personal Finance

Can You Guess Which State Requires The Lowest Income To Join The Top 1%? You May Be Surprised At How Little It Takes To Be Rich Here

Chinese e-commerce platforms&nbsp;Temu&nbsp;and&nbsp;Shein&nbsp;are outperforming Western retailers, using social media and a wide range of affordable goods to lure consumers.
What Happened: Temu and Shein have transformed the online shopping landscape with their innovative business models and robust digital advertising. 
Owned by Chinese e-commerce firm PDD Holdings, Temu, along with its main rival Shein, have amplified consumerism with their limitless selection of low-cost products, most of which are shipped directly from Chinese vendors in response to real-time demand.
Software firm Salesforce estimates that roughly one in five online purchases in the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada will be made through four Asian-based or founded online marketplaces: Shein, Temu, TikTok Shop, and AliExpress, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/shein-temu-holiday-shopping-discounts-2d551895e123dedd49fa35ec58d07634">reports</a> The Associated Press.
These platforms are projected to generate around&nbsp;$160 billion in global sales&nbsp;outside of China, with Temu and Shein capturing the lion&#8217;s share.
Shein, now headquartered in Singapore,&nbsp;primarily targets young women through&nbsp;collaborations with social media influencers, using web design features like pop-up coupons and ads to keep shoppers engaged. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42254975/shoppers-spent-11-3m-per-minute-online-on-black-friday">Shoppers Spent $11.3M Per Minute Online on Black Friday</a>
Conversely, Temu caters to a wider demographic, offering a diverse range of products from practical items to novelty goods.
However, their success has not been without controversy. Both platforms have come under fire and could face potential regulatory challenges. 
Last year, a group&nbsp;of unnamed brands and organizations&nbsp;initiated a campaign against Shein, while U.S. lawmakers expressed concerns about Temu potentially&nbsp;allowing goods made with forced&nbsp;labor into the country.
Despite these challenges, both&nbsp;Shein and Temu have set&nbsp;up warehouses in the U.S.&nbsp;to speed up delivery times&nbsp;and compete with Amazon. As they continue to grow, they are also striving to diversify their customer base beyond bargain-hungry shoppers.
Why It Matters: The rise of Temu and Shein underscores the growing influence of Chinese e-commerce platforms in global markets. 
Their success is a testament to the power of digital advertising and social media in driving consumer behavior. However, their rapid expansion also raises important questions about regulatory oversight and labor practices in the e-commerce industry. 
As these platforms continue to evolve, they will likely face increased scrutiny from lawmakers and competitors alike.
Read Next
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This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Shutterstock

Retail Sales

Temu and Shein Are Shaking Up Western Retailers This Holiday Season

Edward Snowden has found allies in the incoming second Donald Trump administration, hinting at a possible change in his legal standing.
What Happened: Snowden, who has been residing in Russia since 2013 following his leak of classified documents from the National Security Agency, has won over influential supporters within Trump&#8217;s proposed Cabinet.
Trump&#8217;s choice for the director of national intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, co-sponsored a resolution in 2020 calling for the U.S. to dismiss all charges against Snowden. A source close to Gabbard suggested that she would likely push for clemency for Snowden&#8217;s during Trump&#8217;s second term, reports <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/11/30/us-news/edward-snowden-has-powerful-allies-in-trump-white-house/">the</a> New York Post.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Trump&#8217;s pick to head Health and Human Services, is another Snowden supporter who had previously voiced his intention to &#8220;pardon Edward Snowden.&#8221;
While Vice President-elect JD Vance has not made any public statements about Snowden, insiders believe he would empathize with the whistleblower&#8217;s predicament, reports the outlet.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42254953/scaramucci-on-trump-deportation-plan-were-going-to-have-a-stock-market-crash">Scaramucci on Trump Deportation Plan: &#8216;We&#8217;re Going To Have a Stock Market Crash&#8217;</a>
Trump had contemplated pardoning Snowden in late 2020, but was met with resistance from his top officials. However, the dynamics could shift with the incoming administration.
Ben Wizner, Snowden&#8217;s lawyer, argued that Snowden&#8217;s case is &#8220;exactly the kind of case that the pardon power was created for.&#8221;
"This is exactly the kind of case that the pardon power was created for. He broke the law in the public interest, for love of country, and he's paid a price. He does not belong in exile," Wizner told the outlet. 
Tucker Carlson, a close ally of Trump, said, "Ed Snowden is a whistleblower who exposed the crimes of others, yet he's the one who's been punished while the criminals remain in power. It's hard to think of a more grotesque injustice. Anyone who argues against his pardon is your enemy." 
Why It Matters: The support Snowden has garnered within the next Trump administration could signal a significant shift in his legal status. This change could have far-reaching implications for whistleblowers and the handling of classified information.
The potential pardon of Snowden would also represent a notable departure from the stance of previous administrations. 
This development is worth monitoring as it could influence future policy decisions and the treatment of whistleblowers.
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This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Wikimedia Commons

Politics

Snowden Finds Unexpected Allies In Trump's New Team

If you have scrolled through UK property listings recently, you might have been surprised to see stunning brand-new condos in prime London locations for as low as £100,000 ($126,000). With a 10% down payment, the home could be yours for as little as $12,600 out of pocket (not including closing costs). It almost seems too good to be true.
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<li>Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a></li>
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A closer look at the fine print will alert you to the term &#8220;shared ownership.&#8221; What exactly does that mean? That you&#8217;ll be living with roommates who own a piece of your home? Thankfully, no. The other owner in question is the local city authority and the shared ownership concept allows new buyers to get a foothold on the UK property ladder without a high down payment. So why has the US yet to adopt this scheme and what are the downsides, if any?&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;Rent to Own&#8217; On Steroids</h2>
The concept works similarly to a &#8216;rent to own&#8217; model that many real estate investors use privately in the US to allow their tenants to buy their homes one day. However, it is less widespread than the government-backed scheme in the UK. In London, a £125,000 purchase price displayed on listing sites is not the full cost of the home but rather a percentage of ownership, usually 25%. So, the full cost of the home would be £500,000, of which the buyer owns £125,000. But what about the other £375,000? The local housing authority owns that percentage and the owner pays them rent aside from the mortgage payment they make on the percentage they own.
See Also: During market downturns, investors are learning that unlike equities, these<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/connect-invest-real-estate-notes"> high-yield real estate notes that pay 7.5% &#8211; 9% are protected by resilient assets, buffering against losses.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Staircase To Full Ownership</h2>
A homeowner can buy increasing percentages of the home from their landlord in as little as 1% increments, a process called &#8220;staircasing.&#8221; According to the UK government website, there are two ways to &#8220;staircase&#8221;:
<ul>
<li>Gradual staircasing: buying shares of 1% each year</li>
<li>Standard staircasing: buying shares of 5% or more</li>
</ul>
Beyond these two amounts, there are no in-between percentages for staircases and strict guidelines govern how your home is evaluated when you wish to buy a greater ownership stake.
Trending: Unlock the hidden potential of commercial real estate —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/marcus-millichap-backed-platform-makes-it-easy-to-invest-in-real-estate"> This platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Downside: Increased Costs&nbsp;</h2>
Although &#8220;shared ownership&#8221; has been celebrated as a low-cost means of home ownership, recently, owners have complained about soaring service charges (management/maintenance, comparable with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41310400/exorbitant-hoa-fees-are-driving-florida-retirees-to-relocate-heres-why-costs-are-spiraling-so-hi">condo/HOA charges</a> in the US), which have increased by as much as 40%, according to an investigation by the UK&#8217;s Observer. These charges have become more expensive than the rental portion of the owner&#8217;s monthly bills.&nbsp;
&#8220;There is absolutely no clarity on what people are being charged for,&#8221; Labour MP Clive Betts, chair of the Levelling Up, Housing and Communities committee, told the Guardian. &#8220;These are not affordable homes and there is a lack of proper advice about shared ownership.&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Would A Shared Ownership Scheme Work In The US?</h2>
Certain programs run by non-profits in the US are very similar to the UK shared ownership program. These shared equity homeownership programs have income caps and are limited to first-time owner-occupants — the same as in the UK. Also, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-fractional-real-estate-ownership">fractional ownership</a> is popular, again on an individual basis — not through the government — in vacation homes, resorts and commercial buildings.&nbsp;
Generally, the model for personal residences is not as widespread as in the UK, as states differ markedly in their approach to housing. Sharing equity in property has not caught on nationwide in the US as a means to home ownership. However, as the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/11/41841883/housing-crisis-forces-airbnb-and-vrbo-into-the-hot-seat-as-cities-grapple-with-soaring-rents-and-mounting-public-backlash">affordability crisis</a> deepens in the US, creative concepts such as shared ownership could become more widespread.
Currently, America has various affordable housing initiatives, such as government-backed financing through<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-fha-lenders"> FHA mortgages</a> (allowing homeowners to put as little as 3.5% as a down payment even with a low credit score). No-interest second mortgages are available to cover down payment and closing costs ranging from $2,000 to $6,000 and special loans for essential workers are also common in many expensive cities. Additionally, in the US, homeowners can deduct mortgage interest on personal residences from their taxes, which is not the case in the UK.
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Real Estate

Could The UK's Concept Of Government-Backed Shared Ownership Be The Answer To Solving America's Affordability Crisis?

Black Friday in the U.S. saw unprecedented online sales this year, with generative AI chatbots being a key driver in boosting retail website traffic.
What Happened:&nbsp;The online expenditure during the shopping festival hit $10.8 billion, a 10.2% jump from 2023. 
According to a report <a href="https://www.barrons.com/amp/articles/black-friday-shopping-cyber-monday-d31144da">by</a> Barron&#8217;s, AI chatbots, engineered to simulate human interactions to aid shoppers, played a crucial role in this year&#8217;s online shopping surge, leading to an 1,800% explosion in retail website traffic compared to the previous year.
Caila Schwartz, the&nbsp;director of consumer insights at&nbsp;Salesforce, told the outlet, &#8220;Digital&nbsp;retailers who are using generative&nbsp;AI and agents in their&nbsp;customer service experiences saw a&nbsp;nine percent higher conversion rate&nbsp;compared to those who are&nbsp;not."
Moreover, Salesforce&#8217;s data revealed a 31% annual growth in the utilization of AI-powered online chat services on Black Friday. The firm&#8217;s data also&nbsp;showed U.S. Black Friday online&nbsp;sales at $17.5 billion, a 7% year-over-year increase.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42254975/shoppers-spent-11-3m-per-minute-online-on-black-friday">Shoppers Spent $11.3M Per Minute Online on Black Friday</a>
In contrast, traditional Black Friday shopping continued its downward trend, with in-store traffic falling 3.2% nationwide compared to 2023. Mobile sales made up&nbsp;55% of all online sales,&nbsp;amounting to $5.9 billion, a 12.1% year-over-year increase, reports Barron&#8217;s. 
With Cyber Monday around the corner, both Adobe and Salesforce anticipate sustained online shopping growth, with Adobe predicting a 7% rise in online spending during Cyber Week compared to last year.
Why It Matters: The record-breaking online sales on Black Friday 2024 underscore the transformative impact of AI technology on the retail industry. 
The significant role of AI chatbots in driving online traffic and conversion rates highlights the growing importance of digital customer service experiences in boosting sales. The continued decline in physical store shopping and the rise in mobile sales further emphasize the shifting consumer shopping habits towards online platforms. 
As the retail industry adapts to these changes, the use of AI and other digital tools will likely become increasingly critical in enhancing customer experiences and driving sales growth.
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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.

AI Revolutionizes Black Friday Shopping As Online Sales Reach New Heights

Many people feel like they&#8217;re <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/07/39817447/warren-buffett-says-anyone-who-works-40-hours-a-week-should-live-a-decent-life-heres-what-he-pro">working nonstop</a> but never getting ahead, but Dave Ramsey says there&#8217;s a big reason for this – and it&#8217;s not an accident. According to him, the system is set up so that everyone else can get rich using your money and many people willingly play along without realizing it.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Debt Keeps You Stuck</h2>
Ramsey points out that most of us are &#8220;wandering along,&#8221; stuck in a cycle of debt that keeps us from building real wealth. Who&#8217;s benefiting from this? Companies like credit card issuers, banks and retail stores. They&#8217;re intentional about making money off regular people while they just go along with their plan – and their plan is to keep people in debt. Ramsey&#8217;s message is simple: you&#8217;ll stay broke as long as you keep making payments.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">This is not an accident: Everyone else is getting rich with your money, and you're helping them. THEY are being intentional, and WE are wandering along wondering why we're broke. We don't have any money because we're following THEIR plan for THEM, and it's called staying in… <a href="https://t.co/nyUSx8coOH">pic.twitter.com/nyUSx8coOH</a>
&mdash; Dave Ramsey (@DaveRamsey) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaveRamsey/status/1828823008728748190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 28, 2024</a></blockquote>
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See Also: Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Last Chance to get 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a>
Think about it: every payment you make to someone else means less money for your future. &#8220;Your number one wealth-building tool is your income,&#8221; says Ramsey. If you&#8217;re always making payments on credit cards, car loans or student loans, you&#8217;re letting that income slip away. Instead of saving and investing your money, you&#8217;re making everyone else wealthy, from big corporations to lenders.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Rat Race of Payments</h2>
Ramsey paints a striking picture of what it&#8217;s like to be trapped in debt. You work hard, but it feels like you&#8217;re running in place, like a rat on a wheel. All that energy goes into making payments – for things like that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/11/42014500/shopping-spree-sales-of-ultra-large-xxl-tvs-have-skyrocketed-877-as-prices-drop-by-53-in-the-past-year">big TV at Best Buy</a> or those student loans hanging around for years. He even jokes about people proudly counting their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-airline-credit-cards">credit card points or airline miles</a> while the real cost is their financial freedom.
Trending: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $100.</a>
Most Americans are stuck in this cycle. According to Ramsey, 70% of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-stop-living-paycheck-to-paycheck">people live paycheck to paycheck</a>, even though we live in one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Why? Because we&#8217;re buying into the idea that debt is normal and even smart. We&#8217;re told that student loans are an &#8220;investment&#8221; and that financing a new gadget is no big deal. But Ramsey says it&#8217;s just plain stupid – it&#8217;s &#8220;stupid on steroids,&#8221; as he puts it.
Ramsey is straightforward: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38289131/living-paycheck-to-paycheck-heres-your-4-step-guide-from-financial-guru-dave-ramsey-on-how-to-make-a">you&#8217;ve got to stop giving your income away</a>. That means avoiding debt, cutting credit cards and getting serious about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/high-yield-savings-vs-investing">saving and investing</a>. The only way to get ahead is to use your income to your advantage. The millionaires Ramsey interviewed didn't get there by staying in debt or giving their money to retailers. They saved, they invested and they stayed out of debt. That&#8217;s the kind of intentionality that gets results.
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'Everyone Else Is Getting Rich With Your Money,' Says Dave Ramsey–'This Is Not An Accident'

Tom Lee, a well-known financial analyst, has predicted that Bitcoin&#8216;s (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) price could soar to $250,000 within the next year, driven by potential legitimization in the U.S. and increased adoption.
What Happened: Fundstat&#8217;s Lee expressed his optimistic Bitcoin price prediction during a discussion with Anthony Scaramucci. Lee says Bitcoin could potentially hit a high of $250,000 by the end of 2025.
During the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVqm779p5U8">interaction</a>, Lee underscored his belief if the U.S. government were to legitimize Bitcoin as a strategic reserve asset, it would substantially boost the cryptocurrency&#8217;s long-term price prospects.
"Over the next 12 months, I believe something in the range of $250,000 is possible — perhaps even highly probable, based on the current price cycle," he said.
He also pointed out the potential influence of the government purchasing a million Bitcoins, which would position it&nbsp;as the largest Bitcoin holder&nbsp;globally, thereby reinforcing Bitcoin&#8217;s standing in the worldwide economy.
Lee also spotlighted the contribution of&nbsp;MicroStrategy&nbsp;in advancing Bitcoin adoption.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42255036/kiyosaki-on-bitcoin-100000-almost-impossible-for-the-poor-and-middle-class-to-catch-up">Kiyosaki on Bitcoin $100,000: &#8216;Almost Impossible for the Poor and Middle Class to Catch Up&#8217;</a>
"Additionally, it's almost like taking a page from MicroStrategy's playbook. MicroStrategy has demonstrated that using Bitcoin as a balance sheet asset can create tremendous value for its shareholders," Lee added.
Lee, who had earlier predicted a surge to $150,000 this year, continues to uphold a bullish view on Bitcoin&#8217;s price path.
Why It Matters: Lee&#8217;s prediction comes at a time when Bitcoin is gaining traction as a potential hedge against inflation and a viable alternative to traditional financial systems. 
The potential legitimization of Bitcoin by the U.S. government&nbsp;as a strategic reserve asset&nbsp;could be a game-changer for the cryptocurrency, significantly enhancing its value and adoption. 
Furthermore, the role of companies like MicroStrategy in promoting Bitcoin adoption underscores the increasing acceptance of cryptocurrencies in the corporate world. 
These factors combined could potentially drive Bitcoin&#8217;s price to the predicted $250,000 mark within the next year.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/42154487/robert-kiyosaki-trump-will-make-america-richer-again-by-being-the-first-bitcoin-president" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Kiyosaki: ‘Trump Will Make America Richer Again By Being The First Bitcoin President'</a>

Financial Analyst Says Bitcoin Could Soar To $250,000

<a href="https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/moana-2-box-office/" title="https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/moana-2-box-office/">https://thewaltdisneycompany.com/moana-2-box-office/</a>

Entertainment

General

Disney's Moana 2 Earns $221M In 5 Days, Breaking Thanksgiving Weekend,  Five-Day Opening Domestic Box Office Records

Being rich and famous comes with perks such as private jets, luxury homes and expensive vacations. But there&#8217;s another side to being in the spotlight that many people don't think about – the need for constant security. And when you're one of the world's most well-known billionaires, that protection can come at an eye-popping cost.
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</ul>
Regarding keeping billionaires safe, one name stands above the rest: Mark Zuckerberg. Fortune reported that in 2023, Meta (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) spent $23.4 million to keep its CEO and founder safe. To put that in perspective, that's almost 10 times more than what Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) paid to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40864500/elon-musk-has-secret-service-like-security-team-that-calls-him-voyager-growing-threats-after-tesla-a">protect Elon Musk</a> during the same year. If you thought Musk&#8217;s high-profile lifestyle came with a big security bill, Zuckerberg's costs are on a whole different level.
Of the $23.4 million, $9.4 million was spent directly on security services for Zuckerberg and another $14 million was paid as an annual allowance to cover other security-related costs for him and his family. The company pays for everything from round-the-clock bodyguards to advanced home monitoring systems. Meta claims that since the CEO is so closely associated with the company, keeping him secure is crucial because if anything were to happen to Zuckerberg, it would directly impact Meta's reputation and business.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Elon Musk spoke with the media in San Francisco. <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> <a href="https://t.co/kWpWMhoOO2">pic.twitter.com/kWpWMhoOO2</a>
&mdash; DogeDesigner (@cb_doge) <a href="https://twitter.com/cb_doge/status/1618114400514375680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In comparison, Elon Musk's security expenses seem modest. Tesla reportedly spent around $2.4 million in 2023 to keep Musk safe, plus an additional $500,000 for early 2024. That's still a lot of money, but nowhere near Zuckerberg's level. Musk's controversial opinions and habit of being in the public eye certainly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/07/39602346/im-on-the-list-says-elon-musk-and-reveals-two-homicidal-maniacs-tried-killing-him-and-a-bunch-of-oth">put a target on his back</a>, but even he doesn't require the kind of protective detail that Zuckerberg does.
Trending: If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?
But Zuckerberg and Musk aren't the only tech giants who need protection. In 2023, Alphabet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>), Google&#8217;s parent company, spent $6.8 million on security for its CEO, Sundar Pichai. Even Jensen Huang of Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), the CEO whose chips power some of the world's most advanced tech, had a $2.2 million security tab. For Apple&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) CEO Tim Cook, security costs for the year were around $820,000.
Even though these figures appear quite high, they accurately depict the realities of being a well-known CEO in the modern tech industry. These leaders are in actual danger of being kidnapped, extorted or having their lives threatened. Being at the top comes at a high cost, yet for these companies, protecting their leaders is crucial no matter what.
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Startups

AAPL

GOOG

NVDA

TSLA

It Costs 10 Times More To Protect This Billionaire Than It Costs To Protect Elon Musk

Warren Buffett isn't one for sugarcoating, but when it comes to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/42191171/warren-buffett-claims-he-killed-the-dow-investing-peanuts-and-explains-its-a-huge-structural-advantage-to-not-have-a-lot-of-money">America's future</a>, he's got a message that'll make you sit up: things are looking good – really good. In a 2018 piece for Time Magazine, the Oracle of Omaha clearly shows why optimism about the next generation isn't just wishful thinking – it's math.
"I have good news," Buffett began. "First, most American children will live far better than their parents did. Second, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/03/37792386/warren-buffett-says-even-the-bottom-2-of-earners-all-live-better-than-john-d-rockefeller-and-he-">large gains in the living standards</a> of Americans will continue for many generations to come."
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<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
</ul>
That's classic Buffett: bold, direct, and deeply rooted in facts. He acknowledged that Americans are increasingly skeptical about their kids' futures, blaming slow GDP growth and widening inequality. But Buffett's response? Perspective – and a little arithmetic.
Buffett broke it down:
Population Growth: The U.S. population grows about 0.8% a year, a mix of births, deaths, and immigration.
GDP Growth: Even if GDP grows by just 2% annually, that translates to 1.2% growth in per capita GDP.
While that number might seem underwhelming, Buffett flipped the script. "In 25 years – a single generation – 1.2% annual growth boosts our current $59,000 of GDP per capita to $79,000," he wrote. "This $20,000 increase guarantees a far better life for our children."
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So, how's it tracking so far? Buffett's 2018 projection anticipated a per capita GDP of roughly $64,000 by 2024. Currently, the U.S. is on course to meet – and even surpass – that target, with the GDP per capita expected to hit $66,451 by year's end. This upward trajectory suggests Buffett's math was not only sound but possibly conservative.
The Power of Innovation
Why is Buffett so confident? Two words: innovation and productivity. He pointed to the progress he's seen since his birth in 1930:
"Today my <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/42098465/whats-the-average-upper-class-retirement-nest-egg-heres-a-look-at-what-the-wealthiest-20-have-stashed-away">upper-middle-class neighbors</a> enjoy options in travel, entertainment, medicine, and education that were simply not available to Rockefeller and his family," Buffett wrote. Even the richest man in the world back then couldn't buy the everyday comforts we take for granted now.
How did we get here? Innovation, productivity, and machines that replaced labor-intensive jobs freed workers to create entirely new industries. Tractors and cotton gins turned a nation of farmers into a nation of dreamers and doers.
"This game of economic miracles is in its early innings," he insisted.
Trending: Many are using this retirement income calculator to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a>
The Catch: Inequality
But Buffett didn't sugarcoat everything. He flagged one big challenge: inequality. While productivity created unimaginable wealth, it didn't distribute it equally.
"Between 1982 and today, the wealth of the Forbes 400 increased 29-fold," Buffett observed. Meanwhile, many hardworking Americans stayed stuck. "The tsunami of wealth didn't trickle down. It surged upward."
For Buffett, the challenge ahead isn't just <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/39069576/are-you-rich-heres-the-net-worth-you-need-to-be-poor-middle-class-and-wealthy">creating more wealth – </a>it's making sure it benefits everyone. "A rich family takes care of all its children, not just those with talents valued by the marketplace," he wrote.
Despite the hurdles, Buffett's bottom line is not to bet against America. "I have no doubt that America can deliver riches to many and a decent life to all. We must not settle for less."
In classic Buffett style, he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/can-you-guess-how-many-americans-successfully-retire-with-1-million-saved">balanced optimism with realism</a>, laying out a future where growth isn't just possible – it's inevitable. And while the path forward might be uneven, one thing is clear: most American kids will live much better than their parents.
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Warren Buffett Shares 'Good News' For The Future – 'Most American Children Are Going To Live Far Better Than Their Parents Did'

Thousands of Hawaii <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/medical-cannabis">medical marijuana</a> patients are facing a looming crisis due to a legal oversight that threatens to cut off access to their caregivers who grow and process cannabis for them. Caregivers will no longer be allowed to cultivate cannabis starting Dec. 31, 2024. The impending ban also includes the closure of community grow sites that many patients rely on.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Government Admits Mistake</h2>
State legislators admit they are to blame for the lapse in Hawaii&#8217;s medical marijuana rules for caregivers. Written seven years ago, the rules will expire at the end of 2024 and no new ones have been written to replace them.
"It really was a failure that we did not address this impending deadline, and now we have the crisis upon us," said House Public Safety Chair Rep. Della Belatti, <a href="https://www.hawaiinewsnow.com/2024/11/30/cannabis-caregivers-large-grow-sites-will-soon-be-illegal-hawaii-impacting-thousands-patients/">reported </a>Hawaii News Now. 
"They're left either to the black market, which we know is unregulated and unsafe, or without medicine at all. Now we're faced with this situation, and we're going to have to deal with it," she added, referring to medical marijuana patients. There are roughly 32,000 registered medical marijuana patients in Hawaii, <a href="https://hawaiistatecannabis.org/medical/statistics">according</a> to government statistics.
By law, registered caregivers are allowed to grow up to 10 cannabis plants for patients unable to do so themselves. This has been a legal alternative to dispensaries, which some say are too expensive or inconvenient.
State Sen. Joy San Buenaventura, chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, said the situation will have a profound impact on medical marijuana patients. "Especially for Oahu patients who live in condos where they are dependent upon caregivers to grow their medical cannabis for them, they won't be able to have that access and that's huge."
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/02/37114909/hawaii-senators-approve-cannabis-legalization-bill-despite-internal-opposition-to-governors-pro-">Hawaii Senators Approve Cannabis Legalization Bill Despite Internal Opposition To Governor&#8217;s Pro-Reform Stance</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Medical Marijuana Provider Responds</h2>
Jason Hanley, who founded <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/04/31669866/collective-medical-marijuana-farm-in-oahu-hawaii-faces-uncertain-future-amid-legislative-action">Care Waialua</a> eight years ago, says caregivers are vital for many patients, especially those who are bedridden or physically unable to grow their own cannabis. "Caregivers will no longer be able to help people grow, plain and simple. So, if you're a handicapped person or a bedridden person you have to grow your own medicine. There's no caregiving for you," Hanley said. 
The looming December 31 deadline will also limit grow sites to no more than five patients. "They can't afford dispensaries or they can't get their medicine it's as simple as that."
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<li><a href="EXCLUSIVE: Psychoactive Cannabis Seeds To Be Sold Legally In Uruguay For The First Time">EXCLUSIVE: Psychoactive Cannabis Seeds To Be Sold Legally In Uruguay For The First Time</a></li>
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Photo: Benzinga edit with images by <a href="https://www.pexels.com/@troy-squillaci-1303476/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Troy Squillac</a> via Pexels and <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/nicolepineda-22495526/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=6529710" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nicole Pineda</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=6529710" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pixabay</a>

Cannabis

Government

Legal

Hawaii Medical Marijuana Caregiver Ban: 'Government Failure' Sparks Crisis, Threatening Thousands

It started with a joke and quickly spiraled into a viral moment. Elon Musk, Joe Rogan and Donald Trump Jr. recently stirred up social media with a bit of trolling about buying MSNBC and Joe Rogan took it a step further by calling dibs on Rachael Maddow's job – but with his own twist.
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<li>If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?</li>
</ul>
This all began when news broke that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42081224/comcast-plans-major-cable-networks-spinoff-msnbc-and-cnbc-to-form-new-public-company-report">Comcast plans to spin off MSNBC</a> and CNBC into a new publicly traded company. Donald Trump Jr. jumped on this with a tweet tagging Elon Musk, saying, "Hey @elonmusk, I have the funniest idea ever!!!". The joke here was obvious – Musk buying a news network with a decidedly different political leaning.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> I have the funniest idea ever!!! <a href="https://t.co/OEwz6S5ncs">https://t.co/OEwz6S5ncs</a>
&mdash; Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) <a href="https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumpJr/status/1859957346665103747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Of course, Elon Musk – who rarely shies away from online banter – played along. He replied, "How much does it cost?" The exchange caught fire, drawing millions of views, with people both entertained and genuinely curious if Musk might actually do it.
See Also: Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.26/share!</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Joe Rogan Wants In</h2>
Not one to sit out on a joke, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/11/41997920/if-you-dropped-1000-on-spotify-when-joe-rogans-show-became-an-exclusive-heres-how-much-youd-have-today">Joe Rogan</a> jumped in with his idea. He tweeted, "If you buy MSNBC, I would like Rachael Maddow's job. I will wear the same outfit and glasses and I will tell the same lies." Clearly, Rogan was poking fun at Maddow's style and, more importantly, her approach to news coverage – in his eyes, not exactly truthful.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">If you buy MSNBC I would like Rachael Maddow's job. I will wear the same outfit and glasses, and I will tell the same lies.
&mdash; Joe Rogan (@joerogan) <a href="https://twitter.com/joerogan/status/1860088921264390462?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The tweet quickly went viral, garnering tens of millions of views. People couldn't get enough of the mental image of Rogan dressed like Maddow delivering the news in his brand of satire. And then Elon Musk, never missing a beat, replied with "Deal," followed by a mix of rocket, fire and laughing emojis – adding even more fuel to the already blazing conversation.
Trending: This Jeff Bezos-backed startup will allow you to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/bezos-landlord-100-dollars">become a landlord in just 10 minutes, with minimum investments as low as $100 for properties like the Byer House from Stranger Things.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Is It All Just a Joke?</h2>
At its core, this exchange is probably just Musk, Rogan and Trump Jr. having fun at the expense of a network they disagree with. But it's also a reminder of how quickly something that starts as an online joke can become a widely discussed topic – even speculated about.
After all, Musk is known for making what seem like jokes into reality. His purchase of Twitter (now called X) was originally seen as a long shot. Yet here we are. So even if Musk buying MSNBC is mostly in jest, it's hard to ignore the echoes of what's already happened.
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'I Will Tell The Same Lies' – Joe Rogan Says He'd Take Over Rachel Maddow's Job –'Same Outfit And Glasses' – If Elon Musk Buys MSNBC

Meme coin Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) has witnessed a substantial increase in trading volume, indicating a potential major price upswing.
What Happened: <a href="https://www.coinglass.com/currencies/DOGE">Data</a> from CoinGlass show that Dogecoin&#8217;s trading volume has soared by 76.71%.
This surge in momentum is supported by considerable whale activity, including a recent transfer of $120 million DOGE to an unidentified wallet.
<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; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; 300,000,000 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DOGE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DOGE</a> (121,375,564 USD) transferred from unknown wallet to unknown wallet<a href="https://t.co/RwNlh59LhY">https://t.co/RwNlh59LhY</a>
&mdash; Whale Alert (@whale_alert) <a href="https://twitter.com/whale_alert/status/1862387498309009865?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Throughout November, Dogecoin&#8217;s price has shown remarkable growth of 150%, with monthly returns hitting 167%. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42152520/dogecoin-whales-move-214-5m-in-a-single-day-sparking-speculation">Dogecoin Whales Move $214.5M In A Single Day, Sparking Speculation</a>
Earlier in November, crypto trader Peter Brandt offered his perspective on Dogecoin&#8217;s future, suggesting that the cryptocurrency&#8217;s chart displays&nbsp;an inverted head-and-shoulders pattern, which&nbsp;could signal a return to its all-time high of nearly $0.73.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">DOGE <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24DOGE&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$DOGE</a> has been an outstanding charting market following classical charting principles I am going to follow up in a few hours with a comparison chart that will blow your mind (as long as I remember to do so at age 78) <a href="https://t.co/xKuLflPgea">pic.twitter.com/xKuLflPgea</a>
&mdash; Peter Brandt (@PeterLBrandt) <a href="https://twitter.com/PeterLBrandt/status/1856499088918766063?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42185887/astrophysicist-neil-degrasse-tyson-dismisses-musks-vision-to-build-self-sustaining-city-on-mars?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson Dismisses Elon Musk&#8217;s Mars Vision: SpaceX CEO Hits Back, Says &#8216;They Re</a>
Brandt further observed that Dogecoin might&nbsp;be forming an &#8220;upsloping flag,&#8221;&nbsp;a technical pattern often associated&nbsp;with continuation trends. If this pattern materializes, it could suggest a price target of approximately $0.66, in line with the current bullish momentum.
Recently, Dogecoin has demonstrated&nbsp;significant bullish momentum, highlighted by&nbsp;a golden cross — a&nbsp;technical pattern where the 50-day&nbsp;moving average crosses above the&nbsp;200-day moving average. 
This pattern typically indicates&nbsp;strong upward trends and has&nbsp;frequently been a precursor to major price rallies. Dogecoin&#8217;s&nbsp;price has surged, breaking through&nbsp;resistance levels at $0.22 and&nbsp;$0.30, with the growing trading volumes further substantiating this momentum.
Why It Matters: The recent surge in Dogecoin&#8217;s trading volume and the associated bullish momentum are significant indicators of potential future price rallies. 
The involvement of substantial whale activity and the formation of technical patterns such as the inverted head-and-shoulders and the upsloping flag further strengthen the likelihood of a price upswing. 
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/08/40429878/dogecoins-active-users-on-the-rise-will-this-impact-doge-price" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dogecoin's Active Users On The Rise, Will This Impact DOGE Price?</a>

$DOGE

Dogecoin Trading Volume Skyrockets 76%, Indicating Potential Major Price Upswing

These eight mid-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACHR#NYSE">ACHR</a>) shares skyrocketed 65.57% last week.</li>
<li>Scholar Rock Holding Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRRK#NASDAQ">SRRK</a>) stock jumped 49.61%  after rival Biohaven Ltd.'s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BHVN#NYSE">BHVN</a>) taldefgrobep for spinal muscular <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42169246" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">atrophy failed its Phase 3 study</a>.</li>
<li>Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARWR#NASDAQ">ARWR</a>) shares escalated 42.40% after it entered into a global licensing and collaboration agreement with Sarepta Therapeutics Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRPT#NASDAQ">SRPT</a>) for multiple clinical <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42196870" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and preclinical siRNA programs</a>.</li>
<li>Iris Energy Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IREN#NASDAQ">IREN</a>) stock surged 38.99% after the company reported first-quarter results and several analysts raised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42214256" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Hims &amp; Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>) shares upped 33.42% in response to President-elect Donald Trump's plans to nominate Marty Makary to lead the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42177219" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Food and Drug Administration (FDA)</a>.</li>
<li>SoundHound AI, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SOUN#NASDAQ">SOUN</a>) stock grew 33.38%. The company recently announced the deployment of its conversational AI agent, Amelia, at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42145826" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apivia Courtage as part of the AEMA Group</a>.</li>
<li>Joby Aviation, Inc.'s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JOBY#NYSE">JOBY</a>) stock upped 31.62% after Toyota Motor Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TM#NYSE">TM</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42169194" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">invested half a billion dollars</a> in it.</li>
<li>Urban Outfitters, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/URBN#NASDAQ">URBN</a>) shares increased 30.43% after the company reported third-quarter earnings and several analysts raised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42221225" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>
</ol>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/12/42256757/reddit-grab-and-autodesk-are-among-top-11-large-cap-losers-last-week-nov-25-nov-29-are-the-others-in-your-portfolio" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reddit, Grab And Autodesk Are Among Top 11 Large-Cap Losers Last Week (Nov 25-Nov 29): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Archer

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ARWR

BHVN

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JOBY

SOUN

SRPT

SRRK

URBN

Archer Aviation, Hims & Hers Health And Urban Outfitters Are Among Top 8 Mid-Cap Gainers Last Week (Nov 25-Nov 29): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

Soaring New York City rents <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/05/39091231/rents-are-so-high-in-new-york-city-that-even-135kyear-tech-workers-cant-keep-up">have pushed most residents to explore homeownership opportunities</a> in other states, with new data from Realtor.com revealing 85% of Manhattan&#8217;s online home searchers looking beyond state lines.
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The exodus mentality comes as Manhattan&#8217;s median monthly rent hits $4,415. While it does represent a slight 1.1% decline over last year, outer borough increases have kept citywide rents climbing. According to the report, the Bronx leads with an 8.6% jump to $3,164, followed by Queens rising 7% to $3,343, while Brooklyn edges up 0.1% to $3,683.
The city&#8217;s rental market runs counter to national trends, where the top 50 markets have seen 15 consecutive months of rent decreases. New York&#8217;s median asking rent rose 1.7% year-over-year to $3,374 in October 2024, marking a 13.1% increase from pre-pandemic levels.
&#8220;Shoppers who have the flexibility to move away and keep their housing budget at Manhattan rental levels, can fast-track the path to homeownership,&#8221; Realtor.com economics analyst Jiayi Xu was quoted in the report. The typical Manhattan renter&#8217;s income requirement of $176,604 could support home purchases in other markets.
See Also: Unlock the hidden potential of commercial real estate —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/marcus-millichap-backed-platform-makes-it-easy-to-invest-in-real-estate"> This platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a>
Analysis shows Manhattan renters allocating their current $4,415 monthly housing budget toward mortgage payments could afford homes ranging from $600,000 to $750,000 in popular relocation destinations. The calculations assume a 20% down payment and a current 6.43% mortgage rate.
Bridgeport, Connecticut, was a particularly attractive option. Manhattan renters could afford homes priced at $646,150 – nearly double the area&#8217;s median listing price of $322,500. The city offers both beach access and rail connections to New York, the Realtor said.
Trending: Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/red-ventures"> The percentage may shock you</a>.
Similarly, West Palm Beach, Florida presents opportunities with a median list price of $399,900, well within reach of former Manhattan renters&#8217; $655,500 budget. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina offers even greater buying power, with $752,000 in purchase potential against a median listing of $299,900.
Closer to home, New Jersey&#8217;s Long Branch attracts interest despite its $1.22 million median listing price, as Manhattan rental budgets could still secure $624,000 properties. Pittsburgh rounds out popular destinations, offering broad market access with its $255,000 median listing price well below potential buyers&#8217; $599,800 budget.
The trend represents a shift in housing strategies as New Yorkers increasingly view their substantial rental payments as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/06/39433664/top-ten-list-of-cities-where-americans-are-moving-shows-if-you-build-it-affordably-they-will-come">potential mortgage investments in more affordable markets</a>.
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As NYC Rents Hit New Highs, 85% Of Residents Look To Buy Elsewhere – Here's What They Find

A recent Gallup poll found that U.S. consumers plan to spend upwards of $1,000 each on holiday gifts this year, signaling a potentially fruitful <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40431394/brighter-outlook-goldman-sachs-optimistic-on-u-s-economy-cuts-recession-risk-down-to-20">season for retailers</a>.
What Happened: According to the poll, which was released on Wednesday, the average spending estimate for the holiday season has stayed steady since October, a departure from most years when the estimate typically decreases as the season advances. 
The rise in November&#8217;s holiday spending estimate this year follows a significant jump last year, in stark contrast to 2022 when planned spending declined due to high inflation.
Historically, holiday sales have seen a year-over-year increase, with an average growth of 4% since 2000, as per the National Retail Federation. Gallup&#8217;s <a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/653840/shoppers-plan-spend-000-holiday-gifts.aspx">survey</a> indicates that this year&#8217;s holiday sales are likely to experience a higher-than-average increase, close to 5%.
Groups planning to spend the most on holiday gifts include upper-income Americans, parents with children under 18, and Republicans, all planning to spend over $1,200 on gifts.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41305352/struggling-retailers-brace-for-halloween-consumer-spending-slump">Struggling Retailers Brace For Halloween Consumer Spending Slump</a>
A slight majority of Americans,&nbsp;55%, say they will spend&nbsp;approximately&nbsp;the same on gifts, while&nbsp;a larger percentage&nbsp;say they will spend less&nbsp;(23%) rather than more (19%).
With inflation remaining below 3%, the presidential race uncertainty resolved, and an improved economic outlook for Americans, consumers seem prepared&nbsp;to spend a bit more&nbsp;than usual on holiday gifts.&nbsp;
The enthusiasm observed in October is largely persisting into November.
Why It Matters: The steady holiday spending estimate, despite the usual trend of a decrease as the season progresses, is a positive sign for retailers. 
The potential increase in holiday sales, predicted to be near 5%, could provide a much-needed boost to the retail sector, which has been grappling with the impacts of high inflation. 
Furthermore, the willingness of consumers to spend&nbsp;more than usual on holiday&nbsp;gifts, particularly among upper-income Americans, parents, and Republicans, could stimulate economic activity and contribute to a stronger fourth quarter for retailers.
Read Next
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This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Shutterstock

US Consumers Plan To Spend $1,000 or More on Holiday Gifts This Year

These eleven large-cap stocks were the worst performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol>
<li>Symbotic Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYM#NASDAQ">SYM</a>) shares tumbled 25.83% after the company cut its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42213634" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">first-quarter FY25 revenue outlook</a> and analysts cut <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sym/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Grab Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GRAB#NASDAQ">GRAB</a>) shares dipped 11.82% after analysts downgraded or <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/grab/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">cut the price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Reddit, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDDT#NYSE">RDDT</a>) stock declined 10.97%. The company said it is accelerating its global expansion, focusing on international markets such as India and Brazil to drive<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42221015" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> user growth and unlock advertising opportunities</a>.</li>
<li>Banco Bradesco (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBD#NYSE">BBD</a>) shares dived 10.88%. JP Morgan analyst Domingos Falavina downgraded the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/bbd/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">company from Overweight to Neutral</a>.</li>
<li>H World Group Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HTHT#NASDAQ">HTHT</a>) stock plummeted 10.44%  after the company reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42197824" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">worse-than-expected financial results</a>.</li>
<li>Vertiv Holdings, LLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRT#NYSE">VRT</a>) stock decreased 9.82%.</li>
<li>Itau Unibanco Banco Holding (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITUB#NYSE">ITUB</a>) shares fell 8.53%.</li>
<li>Sabesp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBS#NYSE">SBS</a>) shares were down 8.40% last week.</li>
<li>Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>) shares fell 8.16% after the company reported third-quarter results, and several analysts revised their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42221770" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forecasts for the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Nutanix, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTNX#NASDAQ">NTNX</a>) stock lost 7.98% last week after the company reported better-than-expected Q1 financial results. However, the company&#8217;s Q1 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42221971" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">performance was offset by slowing ARR</a>. Several analysts revised price forecasts on the stock.</li>
<li>Autodesk Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADSK#NASDAQ">ADSK</a>) stock dipped 7.98% after it reported third-quarter financial results, and analysts revised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/42218196" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">their price target on the stock</a>.</li>
</ol>
Image via Shutterstock
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/24/12/42256613/rivian-automotive-rocket-lab-and-moderna-are-among-top-10-large-cap-gainers-last-week-nov-25-nov-29-are-the-others-in-your-portfolio" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rivian Automotive, Rocket Lab And Moderna Are Among Top 10 Large-Cap Gainers Last Week (Nov 25-Nov 29): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?</a></li>
</ul>

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Reddit, Grab And Autodesk Are Among Top 11 Large-Cap Losers Last Week (Nov 25-Nov 29): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

President-elect Donald Trump says he will nominate Kash Patel, a staunch loyalist, to head the FBI. This move suggests a possible restructuring in the bureau&#8217;s future.
What Happened: Trump&#8217;s nomination of Patel, who served in several national security roles during Trump&#8217;s first term, indicates Trump&#8217;s intention to replace current FBI Director Christopher Wray. Patel, known for his advocacy for a significant overhaul of the FBI, has been a staunch supporter of Trump&#8217;s agenda.
Patel has previously expressed his intent to divest&nbsp;the FBI of its intelligence-gathering&nbsp;role, instead redistributing its personnel across the country to focus on criminal pursuit, reports Reuters. 
&#8220;The biggest problem the FBI has had, has come out of its intel shops. I&#8217;d break that component out of it. I&#8217;d shut down the FBI Hoover building on day one and reopen it the next day as a museum of the deep state,&#8221; Patel said in an interview in September.
Wray was named to the post by Trump in 2017, and his 10-year term is not due to end until 2027. Trump would have to fire Wray to replace him at the start of his new administration.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/politics/24/11/42027102/trump-and-musk-want-to-sidestep-senate-floor-votes-on-key-confirmations">Trump And Musk Want To Sidestep Senate Floor Votes On Key Confirmations</a>
At 44, Patel has a diverse background, having served as a federal public defender and a federal prosecutor. He was instrumental in leading the House Republicans&#8217; investigation into the FBI&#8217;s 2016 probe into contacts between Trump&#8217;s campaign and Russia.
Patel also authored a trilogy of children&#8217;s books about Trump called &#8220;The Plot Against the King,&#8221; which feature Trump as a fairy tale monarch and Patel as a knight in his service.
While Patel&#8217;s nomination is likely to face resistance from Senate Democrats and potentially some Republicans, he has garnered public support from several high-profile Republicans, including Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton.
Talking about Patel&#8217;s nomination, an FBI spokesperson told the outlet on Saturday, &#8220;Every day, the men and women of the FBI continue to work to protect Americans from a growing array of threats. Director Wray&#8217;s focus remains on the men and women of the FBI, the people we do the work with, and the people we do the work for.&#8221;
Why It Matters: Patel&#8217;s nomination as FBI Director by President-elect Trump is a clear indication of potential changes in the bureau&#8217;s operations. 
His past advocacy for a significant overhaul of the FBI and his intent to shift the bureau&#8217;s focus from intelligence gathering to criminal pursuit could lead to a major restructuring. This move also signals Trump&#8217;s readiness to replace current FBI Director Christopher Wray, despite his term not ending until 2027. 
The nomination, however, is subject to Senate confirmation and is likely to face opposition, making the future of the bureau uncertain.
Read Next
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This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo: Shutterstock

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