Pacific Ventures Group Stock (OTC:PACV), Trade Ideas

Pacific Ventures Group Inc is focused on expansion within the consumer products, food, beverage, and alcohol-related industries. Its customers range from a wide variety of restaurants, including many well-known in Southern CA, to institutions, schools, and re-distributors such as U.S. Foods and Sysco as well as to local distributors. It supplies wholesale food and restaurant supplies to San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside and offers same-day service. In addition, it has clients in Arizona and Colorado that come to its facility to pick up their orders.

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The following post was written and/or published as a collaboration between Benzinga’s in-house sponsored content team and a financial partner of Benzinga.

Photo by Maria Lin Kim on Unsplash 

Pacific Ventures CEO Shannon Masjedi Forges a Path in Male-Dominated Industry

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The following post was written and/or published as a collaboration between Benzinga’s in-house sponsored content team and a financial partner of Benzinga.

California Isn&#39;t Just for Tech Disruption — This Food and Beverage Distributor is Turning Heads, Too

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ALEAFIA HEALTH INC ORD by Aleafia Health Inc.

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EMERALD HEALTH THERAPUTCS by Emerald Health Therapeutics Inc.

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AMERICAN LITHIUM CORP ORD by American Lithium Corp.

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PACIFIC VENTURES GROUP by Pacific Ventures Group Inc.

Pacific Ventures Group Inc

The New York Attorney General Letitia James' office has moved to invalidate the $175 million bond secured by former President Donald Trump to delay payment of a larger monetary damage award in his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/02/37203878/peter-schiffs-theory-on-trump-ny-civil-fraud-case-ruling-attempt-to-scare-other-bus">civil fraud </a>case.
What Happened: The New York attorney general&#8217;s office has filed a request with a judge to nullify the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38037983/trump-clears-175m-bond-in-new-york-fraud-case-avoiding-potential-asset-seizures">$175 million bond</a> that Trump secured, arguing that the former president and his co-defendants failed to prove the surety used to obtain the bond has the money to back it, <a href="https://thehill.com/regulation/court-battles/4606053-ny-ag-trump-civil-fraud-judge-declare-175m-bond-without-effect/">The Hill</a> reported. 
The bond was secured by the California-based Knight Specialty Insurance Company. The state lawyers contended that Knight is a &#8220;small insurer that is not authorized to write business in New York&#8221; and had &#8220;never before written a surety bond in New York&#8221; until Trump.
The company&#8217;s total policyholder surplus is just $138 million, and under New York state law, companies like Knight can&#8217;t expose themselves to liabilities greater than 10% of their surplus.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38305609/teary-biden-slams-trump-for-remarks-on-service-members-who-the-hell-does-he-think-he-is?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Teary Biden Slams Trump For Remarks On Service Members: &#8216;Who The Hell Does He Think He Is?&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: The civil fraud case against Trump and his organization was initiated by the New York Attorney General. The case alleges that Trump and his organization <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38103939/letitia-james-raises-questions-legitimacy-of-trumps-175m-bond-ex-presidents-attorney-says-another-wi">manipulated the value of assets</a> to obtain loans and tax benefits.
The judge is expected to address the issues raised by the attorney general&#8217;s office in a hearing on Monday, which will run parallel to the opening statements in Trump&#8217;s New York criminal trial.
These developments come amid a series of dramatic events surrounding Trump&#8217;s legal proceedings. On Friday, a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/24/04/38342704/protester-sets-self-on-fire-outside-trump-hush-money-trial-jury-selection-concludes-before-monda">protester set themselves on fire</a> outside the courtroom where Trump&#8217;s hush money trial was being held. This incident briefly interrupted the jury selection process.
Donald Trump is currently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/03/31392130/trump-camp-slams-stormy-daniels-case-as-witch-hunt-by-radical-left-democrat-prosecutor" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">dealing with legal challenges</a> on both federal and state levels, across different places like New York City, Washington, Atlanta, Florida, and Georgia. Despite the allegations, he continues to assert his innocence, describing the cases as a &#8220;witch hunt.&#8221;
<a href="https://www.realclearpolitics.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">According</a> to Real Clear Politics, at the national level, Trump held 44.6% support among voters, While Biden trailed with 44.2% support.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38305694/former-trump-attorney-says-very-unusual-to-have-lawyers-on-the-jury-they-can-be-a-very-strong-voice?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Former Trump Attorney Says &#8216;Very Unusual&#8217; To Have Lawyers On The Jury: &#8216;They Can Be A Very Strong Voice&#8217;</a>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Politics

NY AG Letitia James Seeks To Void Trump's $175M Bond In Civil Fraud Case

Renowned crypto skeptic Peter Schiff took to X, formerly Twitter, to mock "Bitcoiners" after the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38345043/bitcoin-shrugs-off-fourth-halving-miner-rewards-halved-price-holds-strong">recent halving event</a>, suggesting that the "hodlers" will soon experience a halving of their net worth.
What Happened: Schiff sarcastically congratulated Bitcoin holders and asked if they were "throwing parties" to celebrate the halving event.
"Congratulations Bitcoiners on the Halving. Are you guys commemorating this occasion by throwing parties tonight? I haven&#8217;t been invited to any."
Bitcoin halving has taken place, with the 840,000th block having been mined. The mining reward has now been reduced to 3.125 BTC per block, compared to 6.25 BTC previously.
Bitcoin halving takes place every 210,000 blocks, and there are 21 million blocks in total. It is expected that this limit will be reached in 2040.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38299089/trump-related-maga-memecoin-onboards-roger-stone-as-partner?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump-Related MAGA Memecoin Onboards Roger Stone As Partner</a>
While the halving event has reduced rewards for miners, Schiff mocked those holding the King Crypto.
"I think halving is an appropriate name for what&#8217;s happening as soon Bitcoin HODLers will experience a halving of their net worths."
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="581" height="259" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/19213002/Peter-Schiff-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-300797" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/19213002/Peter-Schiff-1.jpg 581w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/19213002/Peter-Schiff-1-300x134.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 581px) 100vw, 581px" /></figure>
Why It Matters: The post comes after the completion of the fourth Bitcoin halving event, which occurred after the 840,000th block was mined. This event, which happens approximately every four years, is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38341469/happy-bitcoin-halving-day-what-experts-predict-happens-next">designed to manage scarcity</a> and regulate the inflationary supply of Bitcoin.
This process effectively slows down the rate at which new Bitcoin is created. The last three halvings occurred in 2012, 2016, and 2020, leading to significant drops in mining rewards over time.
Some analysts have warned of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38340794/bitcoin-in-the-danger-zone-is-a-20-price-crash-imminent">potential price volatility</a> following the halving. Pseudonymous cryptocurrency analyst Rekt Capital, for example, cautioned that the imminent Bitcoin halving may lead to price volatility.
Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was hovering at $63,600, down 0.1% in the last hour, and up 2.4% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38284502/dogecoin-killer-shiba-inu-sees-significant-increase-in-token-burn-rate-as-price-recovers-i?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;Dogecoin Killer&#8217; Shiba Inu Sees Significant Increase In Token Burn Rate As Price Recovers</a>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Pete Linforth from Pixabay

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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

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Tech

Peter Schiff Mocks 'Bitcoiners' After Halving Event, Asks If They're 'Throwing Parties:' 'Hodlers Will Experience A Halving Of Their Net Worths'

Bitcoin experienced a 1.5% increase over the last 24 hours following the successful completion of the fourth Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-bitcoin-halving">halving event</a>, signifying a notable reduction in miner rewards. The event, which occurs every 210,000 blocks, has seen the reward for mining a block drop from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC.
What Happened: The fourth Bitcoin halving event, a programmed process in the Bitcoin protocol, has taken place after the 840,000th block <a href="https://bitcoinhalving.club/">was</a> mined. This event, which occurs approximately every four years, is designed to manage scarcity and regulate the inflationary supply of Bitcoin.
As a result of the halving, Bitcoin miners will now receive 3.125 BTC per mined block, down from the previous 6.25 BTC. This process effectively slows down the rate at which new Bitcoin is created. The last three halvings occurred in 2012, 2016, and 2020, leading to significant drops in mining rewards over time.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38284502/dogecoin-killer-shiba-inu-sees-significant-increase-in-token-burn-rate-as-price-recovers-i?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;Dogecoin Killer&#8217; Shiba Inu Sees Significant Increase In Token Burn Rate, As Price Recovers — Is A Turnaround In The Making?</a>
Despite short-term predictions of price volatility within the crypto community, there remains optimism about the long-term potential of Bitcoin&#8217;s price. Billionaire investor Tim Draper believes that the halving is going to help push Bitcoin's price up to "$250,000 or more," a forecast he has consistently proclaimed, particularly in 2022.
&#8220;The Bitcoin halving is a pivotal event that historically signals a shift in the market, usually initiating a bullish trend over the following months. As we approached the fourth halving, the anticipation built, suggesting a continued—if slightly more subdued—upward trajectory,&#8221; M2 CEO Stefan Kimmel <a href="https://cointelegraph.com/news/bitcoin-halving-2024-completion-confirmed">told</a> Cointelegraph.
Why It Matters: Cryptocurrency <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38342981/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-pick-up-steam-the-pre-halving-week-in-retrospect">markets surged on Friday</a>, with a 47.5% spike in total crypto liquidations reaching $258.7 million and a more than double increase in total exchange inflows, as investors eagerly awaited the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/bitcoin-halving" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin Halving</a>.
The global cryptocurrency market cap now stands at 2.35 trillion, up 4.7% in the past 24 hours. In the same period, 84,226 traders were liquidated, with total liquidations amounting to $257.93 million, on late Friday. 
Price Action: At the time of writing BTC was trading at $63,914, gaining 0.7% in minutes after halving, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro.</a>
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/04/38293168/macro-guru-raoul-pal-says-80-of-his-crypto-investment-is-in-this-ethereum-rival-and-i-have?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Macro Guru Raoul Pal Says 80% Of His Crypto Investment Is In This Ethereum Rival: &#8216;And I Have 1% In Stupid S&#x2A;&#x2A;t Like Dogwifhat, Dogecoin And Bonk&#8217;</a>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

$BTC

Bitcoin Shrugs Off Fourth Halving: Miner Rewards Halved, Price Holds Strong

SMFL

Trading Halt: Halted at 7:50:00 p.m. ET - Trading Halt: Halt News Pending

As 4/20 is upons us, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/weedmaps">Weedmaps </a>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MAPS#NASDAQ">MAPS</a>) has provided valuable insights to forecast a significant sales boost for the industry and a widespread celebration of marijuana. The data, derived from big data analysis of user activities on the platform, indicates that the previous year&#8217;s 4/20 was highly successful, with Weedmaps experiencing a twofold increase in normal operations.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Big Data, Big Deals</h2>
Weedmaps pointed out that consumers are prioritizing value, as the platform registered a 200% surge in orders that redeem deals through the platform during 4/20 week of 2023 compared to 2022.&nbsp;
Furthermore, the platform has observed a rising trend in usage, with deal claims increasing by 100% over 2022. This uptick is likely motivated by price reductions, as the costs for flowers, vape pens, and edibles have continued to decrease for the second consecutive year, showing declines of 15%, 14%, and 17% when compared to 2021.
Weemaps also shared that consumers will probably be expending even more in goods than years before, since the average order value surged to $96.22 in 2023, a 14% increase compared to an average Thursday in April of 2023. This is despite deflation.
Additionally, the quantity of orders expanded by an average of 25% in terms of items per basket on 4/20 of last year, in comparison to 2022.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Category Insights</h2>
<ul>
<li>During the 4/20 retail week of 2023, vape pens witnessed a 29% growth over 2022, and an impressive 126% increase compared to 2020, with the largest demographic being Gen Z (31%).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Edibles are predominantly favored by consumers aged 50 and above, accounting for nearly half of all edible sales. The edibles category saw a 36% rise in orders during the 4/20 week of 2023 compared to the previous year.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Cannabis flower remains the top choice across all age groups, with nearly half of all orders on 4/20 in 2023 falling into this category. Remarkably, sales of flowers through Weedmaps surged by 47% on 4/20 compared to the prior year, and this growth expanded to 202% when compared to 4/20 in 2020.</li>
</ul>

Cannabis

MAPS

Unparalleled 4/20: Weedmaps Unveils Consumer Trends Ahead Of Cannabis Industry's Biggest Holiday

As you may have heard, cannabis consumption among older folks is on the rise. More specifically, seniors are one of the fastest-growing groups of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis">cannabis users in the U.S. </a>
As it turns out, many older adults have been consuming weed for decades and new ones are joining in on the fun. Cannabis consumption among our parents and grandparents has quadrupled in the past eight years.
Study after study suggests that older adults are using cannabis to remedy an array of conditions such as sleep issues, pain,&nbsp;inflammation and to activate their appetites. 
But most consume because they still enjoy getting high.
"Sure, I sleep better with cannabis and topical creams alleviate my knee pain, but that's all new. I've been smoking pot for the past four decades and I see no reason to stop getting high," said Cynthia P who recently retired as an ER nurse in Ohio where recreational marijuana <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/11/35664155/ohio-legalizes-cannabis-and-overwhelmingly-approves-abortion-rights">became legal</a> last November.
Scientists and researchers are wisely becoming interested in this Baby Boomer demographic of 77 million, many of whom are healthy, economically stable and have no plans of checking out anytime soon, so they say.
One particular<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fnagi.2022.804890/full" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;study</a>,&nbsp;that examined marijuana use in adults aged&nbsp;60 to 88 found that&nbsp;whole-plant cannabis did&nbsp;not harm&nbsp;cognition but rather the opposite.&nbsp;Older cannabis users, relative to non-users, had&nbsp;significantly greater neuronal communication between the cerebellum and hippocampus.
Why? Age-related changes in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/22/07/28272841/the-endocannabinoid-system-101-the-basics-made-easy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">endocannabinoid system</a>&nbsp;(ECS) include a decrease in the number of cannabinoid receptors throughout the brain.&nbsp;The ECS,&nbsp;a significant aspect of our human physiology that&nbsp;helps maintain homeostasis,&nbsp;is a complex cell-signaling system in the brain and body that interacts with just about all of our&nbsp;other body systems.&nbsp;
Which means? During normal aging, the decline in cannabinoid receptors correlates with increased levels of inflammation in these brain regions causing a loss of neurons in the hippocampus, which is critical for learning and&nbsp;memory.&nbsp;This, in short, explains age-related memory impairment.&nbsp;&nbsp;
"Oh, I believe that," Cynthia told Benzinga. "While I never consumed for a full shift before going to work, I'm convinced that marijuana has helped keep me and my mind sharp as I aged. I'm not saying it's for everyone, but for people of my generation there's nothing better."
Now Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/04/38341776/hemp-space-grew-3x-the-rate-of-cannabis-where-did-marijuana-get-it-wrong">Hemp Space Grew 3X The Rate Of Cannabis, Where Did Marijuana Get It Wrong?</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

Exclusives

It's 4/20, Do You Know Where Your Parents Are?

The Detroit Lions finished with one of their best records in years for the 2023 season, which means they will have a lower pick in the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/nfldraft/"> 2024 NFL Draft.</a>
Would General Manager Brad Holmes consider trading out of the first round with the 2024 NFL Draft taking place in Detroit?
What Happened: Detroit Lions fans might not like the answer given by Holmes to the media on scenarios that could see the Lions trade their 29th overall first-round pick and move back in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/nfldraft/detroit-live-events/">2024 NFL Draft.</a>
Holmes was asked about a scenario of trading out of the first round and didn't hesitate to say he will do what is best for the franchise.
"We have to do the right thing for the organization," Holmes said, as <a href="https://www.detroitlions.com/news/holmes-prepared-to-apologize-to-fans-if-lions-trade-out-of-first-round">reported </a>by Lions writer Mike O'Hara.
Holmes said while he would consider trading out of the first round, it's important to note that, with the draft taking place in Detroit, there might be a greater chance of upsetting the fans if he makes such a move.
A trade out of the first round could mean that any Lions fans in attendance Thursday will have spent all day downtown to watch other teams take their players in the draft.
Holmes said he would send out a "PSA and apologize" if he trades out of the first round.
"Hopefully, our fans will forgive us. We won't expect immediate forgiveness right then and there, but hopefully when the season starts."
Detroit was announced as the host city for the NFL Draft back in 2022.
"Another opportunity for our franchise and our city and just for the world to kind of migrate to downtown Detroit," Holmes said earlier this week.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports-betting/24/04/38318190/michigan-wolverines-will-have-6-high-demand-players-in-2024-nfl-draft-will-history-repeat-">Michigan Wolverines Will Have 6 High-Demand Players In 2024 NFL Draft: Will History Repeat Itself?</a>
Why It's Important: Holmes is no stranger to trading in the NFL Draft. Since joining as the Lions GM in 2021, Holmes has taken part in several drafts for the team and is known for dealmaking.
This includes the 2023 NFL Draft, which saw the Lions trade their sixth overall pick, acquired from the Los Angeles Rams in the Matthew Stafford trade. The Lions traded the sixth pick to the Arizona Cardinals and received back the 12th, 34th and 168th overall picks.
Lions fans will remember the 2023 Draft saw several impact players taken including running back Jahymyr Gibbs with the 12th pick and tight end Sam LaPorta with the 34th pick. Both rookies played in the 2023 NFL season and were among the top first-year players, finishing third and fourth, respectively, in NFC offensive rookie of the year voting.
The 12-5 record and appearance in the NFC Championship game gives the Lions the 29th overall pick, one of their lowest earned in years.
The Lions also have the 61st overall pick and 73rd, but have only those three picks in the first four rounds, with no fourth-round pick this year. This could prompt Holmes to be open to trades to pick up additional picks. The Lions also have a fifth-round pick, two sixth-round picks and a seventh-round pick, for seven overall picks.
In the 2023 NFL Draft, the Lions had eight picks, including two first-round picks and two second-round picks.
The Lions have had a first round pick in every season since 1994, with 1993 being the last year they didn't select a player in the first round.
The Lions&#8217; top needs by position include cornerback, offensive line and wide receiver. The Lions last took a wide receiver in the first round of 2022 (Jameson Williams) and a cornerback in the first round of 2020 (Jeff Okudah). For the offensive line, the Lions last took a guard or center in the first round in 2018 with Frank Ragnow, and last took an offensive tackle in the first round in 2021 with Penei Sewell. Of these four players, three are still with the Lions.
Join Benzinga's live draft reaction show Thursday, April 25 to hear our instant thought on who the Lions take 29th overall or our reaction to the Lions trading out of the first round.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="&#x1f534; LIVE NFL Draft Watch Party: Benzinga&#039;s Expert Analysis &amp; Reactions!" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XMBqIWZb7h0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Photo via Shutterstock.

Sports

Detroit Lions Have First-Round Pick Every Year Since 1994: Would They Really Trade Out With Draft In Motor City?

&quot;We are disappointed to announce the wind-down of our Phase 2 NASH trial, which we attribute entirely to resource constraints,&quot; said John Brancaccio, Executive Chairman of Hepion. &quot;The Company remains committed to its strategic alternative efforts previously announced in December 2023. Given the number of enrolled NASH patients to date and the low probability of generating relevant efficacy data to support a registrational trial with our current cash resources, we have opted to wind down the program and assure that patients are transitioned out of the trial in a safe and compliant manner. There were no safety concerns observed for rencofilstat in the ASCEND-NASH trial.&quot;

Biotech

HEPA

Hepion Pharmaceuticals Says Given The Number Of Enrolled NASH Patients To Date And The Low Probability Of Generating Relevant Efficacy Data To Support A Registrational Trial With Our Current Cash Resources, We Have Opted To Wind Down The Program And Assure That Patients Are Transitioned Out Of The Trial In A Safe And Compliant Manner"

Hepion Pharmaceuticals Shares Resumed Trading

Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) voiced her support for a Department of Justice antitrust case against leading technology company Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), which was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37905532/apple-slams-dangerous-doj-lawsuit-tim-cooks-iphone-suggestion-returns-to-haunt-and-potential-google">announced last month.</a>
In comments shared on social media, Warren took aim at the smartphone market segment of Apple.
What Happened: Apple is one of the largest smartphone companies in the world and in 2023 had seven of the top 10 selling smartphones globally <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/37245799/apple-dominates-2023-smartphone-list-with-7-of-top-10-models-why-its-important-for-iphone-growth">according to a report.</a>
According to Warren, Apple has a monopoly in the smartphone market and one of the company's key features could be ruining friendships and relationships.
"Green texts on iPhones, they're ruining relationships," Warren <a href="https://twitter.com/SenWarren/status/1781086997014040759">said </a>in a video posted on X.
The green texts refer to the texts that come from non-Apple phones in green bubbles versus the blue bubbles displayed by iPhone users.
"Non iPhone users everywhere are being excluded from group texts."
Warren said that this means some non-Apple smartphone users are not being included in chats about vacation plans, group chats or chats with other sports fans.
"And who's to blame here? Apple."
Warren said that the green vs. blue bubble text icons are just one example of the dirty tactics used by Apple to "keep a stranglehold on the smartphone market."
"Apple has used its monopoly on the smartphone to lock Americans into services and amass billions of dollars in profits."
Warren mentioned that apps that would let Google users use iMessage and get blue texts were <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/12/36165068/apple-pulls-plug-on-imessage-for-android-app-beeper-mini-its-back-to-green-bubbles-now-for-android-u">blocked by Apple.</a>
"It's time to break up Apple's monopoly now."
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/03/37876155/apple-doj-lawsuit-could-challenge-core-business-model-leading-analyst-predicts-what">Apple DOJ Lawsuit Could Challenge &#8216;Core Business Model&#8217;: Leading Analyst Predicts What&#8217;s Next For Tech Giant</a>
Why It's Important: The video shared by Warren was Community Noted on X, with readers providing more context.
"As of Jan 2024, iPhone has a 57% market share, to Android 42% in North America. A monopoly is exclusive control, or no close substitutes," the note reads.
In March, the Department of Justice filed an antitrust suit against Apple, which includes allegations that the company restricts access to iPhone hardware and software features.
A <a href="https://9to5mac.com/2024/04/19/elizabeth-warren-on-green-texts/">report </a>from 9to5Mac indicates that the antitrust lawsuit now encompasses claims from non-iPhone users who feel socially stigmatized and excluded in chats with iPhone users. This issue stems from the ongoing<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/09/34818276/get-the-message-google-roasts-apple-with-new-mocking-ipager-add-to-end-green-vs-blue-text-bubbles-wa"> blue vs. green bubble text debate.</a>
AAPL Price Action: Apple shares closed at $165.00 on Friday, versus a 52-week trading range of $162.80 to $199.62.
Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/24/04/38305131/elizabeth-warren-says-trump-had-only-2-accomplishments-as-president-huge-difference-between-bide"> Elizabeth Warren Says Trump Had Only 2 Accomplishments As President: &#8216;Huge Difference Between&#8217; Biden, Trump</a>
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Cosmos Health Received Nasdaq Notice On Late Filing Of Its Form 10-K; On April 17 Received Notification Letter Stating Co Is No Longer In Compliance With Nasdaq Listing Rule 5250(c)(1); Intends To Resolve Deficiency And Regain Compliance With Nasdaq Listing Rules

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On Feb 19, Bit Origin Ltd Terminated Employment Of Its CFO, Xia Wang; On April 10, Lucas Wang Resigned As CEO And Chairman Of Board; Current COO, Has Been Appointed CEO, Chairman Of Board And A Director Of Co; Co To Conduct A Search To Replace Xia Wang As Company's CFO

Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on ServiceNow.
Looking at options history for ServiceNow (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOW#NYSE">NOW</a>) we detected 56 trades.
If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 35% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 64% with bearish.
From the overall spotted trades, 25 are puts, for a total amount of $1,473,153 and 31, calls, for a total amount of $2,469,435.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $300.0 to $1040.0 for ServiceNow over the last 3 months. 
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for ServiceNow's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of ServiceNow's whale trades within a strike price range from $300.0 to $1040.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>ServiceNow Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1713559550_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>NOW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$108.8</td>
<td>$106.7</td>
<td>$108.8</td>
<td>$700.00</td>
<td>$598.4K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">142</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">56</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NOW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$37.0</td>
<td>$31.7</td>
<td>$36.5</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$310.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">35</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">85</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NOW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/10/24</td>
<td>$39.1</td>
<td>$36.7</td>
<td>$39.1</td>
<td>$700.00</td>
<td>$293.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">9</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">75</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NOW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/17/24</td>
<td>$32.8</td>
<td>$32.1</td>
<td>$32.1</td>
<td>$720.00</td>
<td>$227.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">75</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NOW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>08/16/24</td>
<td>$33.0</td>
<td>$31.9</td>
<td>$33.0</td>
<td>$800.00</td>
<td>$132.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">131</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About ServiceNow</h3>
ServiceNow Inc provides software solutions to structure and automate various business processes via a SaaS delivery model. The company primarily focuses on the IT function for enterprise customers. ServiceNow began with IT service management, expanded within the IT function, and more recently directed its workflow automation logic to functional areas beyond IT, notably customer service, HR service delivery, and security operations. ServiceNow also offers an application development platform as a service.
<h3>Current Position of ServiceNow</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 1,536,830, with NOW's price down by -2.39%, positioned at $713.91.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 5 days.</li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for ServiceNow, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

Options

This Is What Whales Are Betting On ServiceNow

Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on AstraZeneca. Our analysis of options history for AstraZeneca (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZN#NASDAQ">AZN</a>) revealed 12 unusual trades.
Delving into the details, we found 16% of traders were bullish, while 83% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 3 were puts, with a value of $90,336, and 9 were calls, valued at $981,928.
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $66.0 and $77.5 for AstraZeneca, spanning the last three months.
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.
This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for AstraZeneca's options for a given strike price.
Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of AstraZeneca's whale activity within a strike price range from $66.0 to $77.5 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>AstraZeneca Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1713559545_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/19/24</td>
<td>$1.06</td>
<td>$0.9</td>
<td>$0.9</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$594.6K</td>
<td>14.1K</td>
<td>8.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/19/24</td>
<td>$1.65</td>
<td>$1.54</td>
<td>$1.55</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
<td>$69.4K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/19/24</td>
<td>$1.52</td>
<td>$1.51</td>
<td>$1.51</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
<td>$67.6K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/19/24</td>
<td>$1.49</td>
<td>$1.25</td>
<td>$1.49</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
<td>$66.7K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
<td>24</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AZN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/19/24</td>
<td>$1.57</td>
<td>$1.48</td>
<td>$1.49</td>
<td>$67.00</td>
<td>$49.6K</td>
<td>2.5K</td>
<td>920</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About AstraZeneca</h3>
A merger between Astra of Sweden and Zeneca Group of the United Kingdom formed AstraZeneca in 1999. The firm sells branded drugs across several major therapeutic classes, including gastrointestinal, diabetes, cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer, immunology and rare diseases. The majority of sales come from international markets with the United States representing close to one third of its revenue.
Following our analysis of the options activities associated with AstraZeneca, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.
<h3>Where Is AstraZeneca Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 4,720,283, the price of AZN is up by 0.28%, reaching $68.55.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 6 days from now.</li>
</ul>
Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest AstraZeneca options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.

Looking At AstraZeneca's Recent Unusual Options Activity

Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bearish stance on Astera Labs (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALAB#NASDAQ">ALAB</a>).
And retail traders should know.
We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.
Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with ALAB, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.
Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 9 options trades for Astera Labs.
This isn't normal.
The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 44% bullish and 55%, bearish.
Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $55,500, and 8, calls, for a total amount of $413,781.
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $35.0 to $100.0 for Astera Labs during the past quarter. 
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Astera Labs's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Astera Labs's whale trades within a strike price range from $35.0 to $100.0 in the last 30 days. 
<h3>Astera Labs Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1713559539_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" />
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>

<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Ask</th>
<th>Bid</th>
<th>Price</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Open Interest</th>
<th style="text-align: right;">Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>ALAB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$21.0</td>
<td>$20.0</td>
<td>$21.0</td>
<td>$50.00</td>
<td>$73.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">43</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">39</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALAB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$32.7</td>
<td>$30.9</td>
<td>$32.52</td>
<td>$35.00</td>
<td>$65.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALAB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/17/24</td>
<td>$7.7</td>
<td>$7.6</td>
<td>$7.6</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$63.8K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">37</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">89</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALAB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/17/24</td>
<td>$6.1</td>
<td>$5.6</td>
<td>$5.9</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$59.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">37</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">472</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ALAB</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/19/24</td>
<td>$11.1</td>
<td>$10.7</td>
<td>$11.1</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$55.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">425</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">66</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h3>About Astera Labs</h3>
Astera Labs Inc is a company that offers an Intelligent Connectivity Platform, comprised of Semiconductor-based, high-speed mixed-signal connectivity products that integrate a matrix of microcontrollers and sensors. COSMOS, their software suite which is embedded in its connectivity products and integrated into their customers' systems. The Company delivers critical connectivity performance, enables flexibility and customization, and supports observability and predictive analytics. This approach addresses the data, network, and memory bottlenecks, scalability, and other infrastructure requirements of hyperscalers and system original equipment manufacturers.
Having examined the options trading patterns of Astera Labs, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance
<h3>Current Position of Astera Labs</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 3,996,863, with ALAB's price down by -10.18%, positioned at $63.7.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 14 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Astera Labs</h3>
A total of 5 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $88.0.
<ul>
<li>Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Evercore ISI Group lowers its rating to Outperform with a new price target of $100.</li>
<li>An analyst from Barclays downgraded its action to Overweight with a price target of $85. </li>
<li>Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Roth MKM lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $85.</li>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from JP Morgan downgraded its rating to Overweight, setting a price target of $85. </li>
<li>Reflecting concerns, an analyst from Needham lowers its rating to Buy with a new price target of $85.</li>
</ul>
Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Astera Labs, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.

ALAB

Decoding Astera Labs's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

GILD

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Offerings

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