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Former hedge fund manager Martin Shkreli called quantum computing stocks IonQ Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IONQ#NYSE">IONQ</a>) and Rigetti Computing Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGTI#NASDAQ">RGTI</a>) &#8220;one of the best shorts&#8221; of his career, despite both companies seeing substantial gains in recent trading sessions.
What Happened: Shkreli, posting on X on Tuesday, criticized the operational status of quantum computers from both companies, sharing an Amazon Web Services Braket dashboard showing multiple quantum processing units offline. 
The dashboard revealed that all three of IonQ&#8217;s quantum devices and both of Rigetti&#8217;s systems were either offline or experiencing errors.
This bearish stance comes as IONQ shares have surged 286% over the past year, while RGTI stock has skyrocketed more than 1,170%. 
On Tuesday alone, RGTI jumped 42.22% to close at $13.98, while IONQ gained 16.51% to end at $45.31, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">another day and <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24IONQ&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$IONQ</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24RGTI&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$RGTI</a> shitty/tiny QCs are offline. but the stock are up? this is one of the best shorts i&#39;ve seen in my career. we are further away from quantum than even I thought: check out the Los Alamos roadmap from a while back for a laugh&#8230; <a href="https://t.co/Kgr63SjVf7">pic.twitter.com/Kgr63SjVf7</a>
&mdash; Martin Shkreli (@MartinShkreli) <a href="https://twitter.com/MartinShkreli/status/1881718784689574165?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
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See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/43118941/oracles-larry-ellison-says-cancer-vaccine-tailored-in-48-hours-could-soon-be-a-reality-as-trump-announces-500-billion-ai-investment">Oracle&#8217;s Larry Ellison Says Cancer Vaccine Tailored In 48 Hours Could Soon Be A Reality As Trump Announces $500 Billion AI Investment</a>
Why It Matters: Shkreli&#8217;s comments align with recent skepticism from tech industry leaders about quantum computing&#8217;s near-term potential. Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) CEO Jensen Huang and Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) CEO Mark Zuckerberg both suggested quantum computing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42936751/mark-zuckerberg-backs-nvidia-ceo-jensen-huangs-view-on-quantum-computing-its-still-quite-a-ways-off">applications may be 15 to 20 years away</a> from practical implementation.
Shkreli, known as &#8220;Pharma Bro&#8221; from his controversial tenure as CEO of Turing Pharmaceuticals where he raised an antiparasitic drug&#8217;s price by 5,455%, was convicted of securities fraud in 2017 and carries a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/21/11/23904774/wall-street-crime-and-punishment-martin-shkreli-the-self-destructive-pharma-bro">lifetime ban from the pharmaceutical industry</a>.
The AWS Braket service, which provides access to quantum computing hardware from various manufacturers, showed only four out of ten total quantum devices were operational at the time of Shkreli&#8217;s post, with Amazon&#8217;s own classical quantum simulators among the few systems showing &#8220;online&#8221; status.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/43118598/warren-buffetts-pilot-co-exits-global-oil-trading-refocuses-on-us-operations-report">Warren Buffett&#8217;s Pilot Co Exits Global Oil Trading, Refocuses On US Operations: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Equities

News

Markets

Tech

IONQ

NVDA

RGTI

Martin Shkreli Calls IonQ And Rigetti 'Best Shorts' Despite Recent Stock Gains, Cites Offline Quantum Systems

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) mining reportedly helped Texas avoid $18 billion in energy costs by eliminating the&nbsp;need for new gas peaker&nbsp;plants.
What Happened: The findings were made in a Monday <a href="https://www.da-ri.org/articles/how-bitcoin-mining-saved-texans-18-billion">report </a>by the Digital Assets Research Institute, which credited the efforts of Electric Reliability Council of Texas&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Brad Jones in identifying Bitcoin mining as a better alternative to stabilize the Texas electrical grid instead of the costly and polluting gas peaker plants.
Natural gas-fired plants have been traditionally used to stabilize grids during peak demand. However, their popularity has dipped owing to significant carbon footprints, high setup and maintenance costs, and large idle time. 
Bitcoin mining, on the other hand, offered a more flexible solution, creating far less emissions than gas peaker plants, the report stated, citing data.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43087038/trump-names-uyeda-acting-sec-chair-as-crypto-regulations-get-set-for-a-makeover">Trump Names Uyeda Acting SEC Chair, Regulators Get Ready For Crypto Makeover</a>
Most major Bitcoin mining companies, including Riot Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIOT#NASDAQ">RIOT</a>), joined in the so-called &#8220;Demand Response&#8221; programs undertaken by the Texas grid, rendering the gas peaker plants unnecessary.
&#8220;The estimated cost of gas peaker plants, which would be passed on to Texan power users in the form of higher power bills, has now ballooned to&nbsp;$18 billion, &#8221; the report read.
Why It Matters: Miners help <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/23/09/34368164/bitcoin-miners-hit-pause-in-texas-as-energy-crisis-stalls-operations">stabilize the state&#8217;s power&nbsp;grid</a> by powering up their operations when there is an excess capacity of electricity while drastically lowering it when the state requires more usage during extreme weather conditions.
This flexibility allows grid operators to use less energy from less efficient power plants and incorporate renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, which can go underutilized during peak demand.
Price Action: The Valkyrie Bitcoin Miners ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WGMI#NASDAQ">WGMI</a>), which provides exposure to top Bitcoin mining companies, closed 1.58% lower at 24.97 on Tuesday, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
According to a recent report, U.S. miners controlled over 30% of the global network hash rate, marking a 9% increase in market share since&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-bitcoin-halving#:~:text=TL%3BDR%3A%20The%20Bitcoin%20halving,the%20price%20of%20Bitcoin%20soaring.">April's halving</a>.
Read Next:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43086309/trumps-doge-committee-faces-lawsuit-over-alleged-federal-advisory-violations-and-lack-of-transparency">Trump&#8217;s DOGE Committee Faces Lawsuits Over Alleged Federal Advisory Violations, Lack Of Transparency</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: 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 courtesy: Shutterstock<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/apis?utm_source=benzinga.com&amp;utm_campaign=article-bottom" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"></a>

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

Cryptocurrency

$BTC

MARA

RIOT

WGMI

Bitcoin Miners Helped Texas Avoid $18 Billion Energy Costs: Report

Leading U.S.-based firms were competing hard to mine more Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), with many increasingly retaining the newly-created coins for long-term benefits.
What happened: American Bitcoin mining companies added nearly 16 ExaHash per second of mining capacity, or an 8% increase, from November-end up to Jan. 15, according to a JPMorgan research report released Thursday.
The total hash rate, or the computational power needed to validate transactions and mine new Bitcoins, has more than doubled to 238 EH/s year-over-year. With this, U.S. miners control over 30% of the global network hash rate, marking a 9% increase in market share since <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-bitcoin-halving#:~:text=TL%3BDR%3A%20The%20Bitcoin%20halving,the%20price%20of%20Bitcoin%20soaring.">April's halving</a>.
The growth was led by the world's biggest Bitcoin miner, MARA Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MARA#NASDAQ">MARA</a>), which saw a 7.1 EH/s increase in hash rate. CleanSpark Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CLSL#NASDAQ">CLSL</a>) ranked second on the list with an estimated 5.4 EH/s growth.
Interestingly, these two companies also mined the most Bitcoin in December, at 890 BTC and 668 BTC, respectively.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/42994641/italys-largest-bank-leaps-into-bitcoin-trading-with-1-million-test-investment-but-ceo-says-he-doesnt-invest-in-btc-personally">Italy&#8217;s Largest Bank Leaps Into Bitcoin Trading With $1 Million &#8216;Test&#8217; Investment But CEO Says He Doesn&#8217;t Invest In BTC Personally</a>
Many firms also reported a sharp increase in their Bitcoin holdings. MARA, which adopted a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/07/g39955751/mara-purchases-100-million-of-bitcoin">full HODL approach</a> last year, saw its balance zoom by 28% to 44,893 BTC as of Jan. 15.
Riot Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIOT#NASDAQ">RIOT</a>), the second-largest Bitcoin miner by market capitalization, increased its HODL balance by 55% to 17,722 BTC. Cleanspark's BTC stash grew from 9,297 at the end of November to 10,000 as of Jan. 15.
Why It Matters: A rise in the hash rate is usually a good sign because it indicates growing competition among miners to safeguard the network.
The rush to mine and hoard more Bitcoin could also be a defensive tactic against potential financial pressure from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42867736/us-bitcoin-miners-hoard-apex-crypto-to-shield-against-rising-expenses-mara-riot-replicate-microstrategys-playbook">high expenses</a>.
The average cost to produce one Bitcoin in the fourth quarter of 2024 was $106,000, according to a <a href="https://coinshares.com/corp/resources/research/bitcoin-mining-report-q3-2024/">report </a>by leading investment firm CoinShares. The prevailing price of one Bitcoin, meanwhile, was $101,981.38.
Additionally, President-elect Donald Trump&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/41081939/trump-wants-us-to-be-bitcoin-mining-capital-of-the-world-core-scientifics-move-to-buy-chip">apparent support </a>for the industry may be encouraging miners to run their machines at full capacity. During his election campaign, Trump said he wanted the U.S. to become the world&#8217;s Bitcoin mining capital.
Price Action: Shares of MARA Holdings closed 0.83% higher at $18.30 during Thursday&#8217;s regular trading session, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA.." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.&nbsp;The Valkyrie Bitcoin Miners ETF, which provides exposure to top Bitcoin mining companies, rose 0.04% to 24.58.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42993521/michael-saylors-microstrategy-not-alone-in-bitcoin-acquisition-says-bitwise-chief-investment-officer-its-a-bona-fide-megatrend">Michael Saylor&#8217;s MicroStrategy Not Alone In Bitcoin Acquisition, Says Bitwise Chief Investment Officer: &#8216;It&#8217;s A Bona Fide Megatrend&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

CLSL

US Bitcoin Miners Boost Mining Capacity, Capture 30% Of Global Hash Rate — MARA Holdings Sees Sharp Jump In BTC Balance

Oracle Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) co-founder Larry Ellison unveiled plans for an artificial intelligence-driven cancer vaccine system that could deliver personalized treatments within 48 hours, speaking at a White House briefing alongside tech leaders and President Donald Trump on Tuesday.
What Happened: The announcement came as part of a broader $500 billion AI infrastructure initiative called Stargate, a joint venture between Oracle, OpenAI, and SoftBank Group. The project will <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43111153/nvidia-and-ai-stock-rises-as-trump-announces-500-billion-stargate-ai-infrastructure-venture">establish massive data centers</a> across the United States, starting with a facility in Abilene, Texas.
&#8220;We can diagnose cancer using AI through a simple blood test,&#8221; Ellison explained during the briefing. &#8220;Once we sequence the genes of that cancer tumor, we can design an mRNA vaccine for each individual robotically using AI in about 48 hours.&#8221;
The initiative sparked a rally in AI-related stocks, with Oracle shares climbing 7.17% to close at $172.57. Other tech companies also saw significant gains, with NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) rising 3.95%, Arm Holdings plc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARM#NASDAQ">ARM</a>) up 8.94%, and Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>) advancing 4.20%.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/01/43116755/trumps-plan-to-end-7500-ev-tax-credits-could-be-devastating-for-telsa-rivals-poll-says-could-be-bullish-for-elon-musks-company">Trump&#8217;s Plan To End $7,500 EV Tax Credits Could Be &#8216;Devastating&#8217; For Telsa Rivals, Poll Says Could Be Bullish For Elon Musk&#8217;s Company</a>
Why It Matters: The Stargate venture will initially invest $100 billion in U.S.-based AI infrastructure, with plans to expand to $500 billion over four years. The project includes the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43111153/nvidia-and-ai-stock-rises-as-trump-announces-500-billion-stargate-ai-infrastructure-venture">construction of ten 500,000-square-foot data centers</a>, with potential expansion to 20 facilities beyond the initial Texas location.
During the announcement, Ellison also highlighted AI applications in healthcare, particularly focusing on electronic health records. The system would enable doctors in remote locations to access treatment protocols from leading cancer centers like Memorial Sloan Kettering.
The project represents one of the largest private sector investments in AI infrastructure to date, positioning the United States to strengthen its leadership in artificial intelligence technology development.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/43118598/warren-buffetts-pilot-co-exits-global-oil-trading-refocuses-on-us-operations-report">Warren Buffett&#8217;s Pilot Co Exits Global Oil Trading, Refocuses On US Operations: Report</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

DELL

ORCL

Oracle's Larry Ellison Says Cancer Vaccine Tailored In 48 Hours Could Soon Be A Reality As Trump Announces $500 Billion AI Investment

President Donald Trump made the first public statement on his newly launched meme coin on Tuesday, stating that he knows little about it.
What Happened: Trump was taking questions from reporters during his first White House news conference.
A journalist, referring to the Official Trump&nbsp;(TRUMP) meme coin, asked Trump whether he would continue selling products that benefit him personally.&nbsp; 
&#8220;I don&#8217;t know if it benefited me; I don&#8217;t know where it is,&#8221; the president responded. &#8220;I don&#8217;t know much about it other than I launched it. I heard it was very successful. I haven&#8217;t checked where is it today.&#8221;
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Watch President Trump&#039;s first White House news conference in full" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/k-Up6GjRgsM?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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When the journalist suggested that he had made &#8220;several billion dollars&#8221; from the venture, Trump responded, &#8220;That is peanuts for these&nbsp;guys.&#8221;
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43087038/trump-names-uyeda-acting-sec-chair-as-crypto-regulations-get-set-for-a-makeover">Trump Names Uyeda Acting SEC Chair, Regulators Get Ready For Crypto Makeover</a>
Why It Matters: Trump&#8217;s comments come as the meme coin, which was launched last weekend, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43080060/donald-trump-and-melania-memecoins-combined-market-value-is-now-higher-than-that-of-warren-buffetts-hot-pick">quickly gained</a> tens of billions of dollars in market valuation, causing a stir in the cryptocurrency sector.
While the coin tanked on Day 1 of Trump&#8217;s presidency, possibly due to no mention of cryptocurrencies in the inaugural address, it regained momentum on Tuesday following the formation of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/25/01/43110946/sec-launches-crypto-task-force-to-establish-clear-regulatory-framework">dedicated cryptocurrency task force</a> by the SEC.
CIC Digital LLC,&nbsp;an affiliate of the Trump Organization, and a related entity,&nbsp;Fight Fight Fight LLC,&nbsp;own an 80% share of the Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>)-based asset, according to the coin&#8217;s official website. At a fully diluted valuation of $41.43 billion as of this writing, it would mean a controlling stake of $33.21 billion.
Taking a cue, First Lady Melania Trump also launched a memecoin, MELANIA, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43078040/trump-coin-tanks-36-even-as-melania-trump-launches-her-own-token-top-analyst-says-his-short-is-going-very-very-well">which has amassed </a>over $4 billion in fully diluted valuation.
Price Action: At the time of writing, TRUMP was exchanging hands at $41.08, surging 22% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43086309/trumps-doge-committee-faces-lawsuit-over-alleged-federal-advisory-violations-and-lack-of-transparency">Trump&#8217;s DOGE Committee Faces Lawsuits Over Alleged Federal Advisory Violations, Lack Of Transparency</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Politics

$SOL

Trump Memecoin Regains Momentum, Rallies 22% As The President Calls Billions Earned Through The Venture As 'Peanuts'

Pilot Co., fully owned by Warren Buffett&#8216;s Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>), is shuttering its international oil trading business to concentrate on its core U.S. travel center operations.
What Happened: The Knoxville, Tennessee-based company has dismissed most of its international trading staff in recent months, including veteran distillate fuel traders Anthony Hicks and Nghiem Nguyen, Reuters <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/warren-buffetts-pilot-co-shuts-oil-trading-business-sources-say-2025-01-21/">reported</a>, citing sources.
A small team, including fuel trader Ajai Hari, remains to wind down existing contracts with customers like Ecuador&#8217;s PetroEcuador.
&#8220;Our core capabilities are focused on delivering reliable fuel supply to our travel centers and customers across North America,&#8221; Pilot Energy President Gary Hoogeveen said in a statement, though the company didn&#8217;t specifically comment on the trading unit closure.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43118289/trump-open-to-elon-musk-or-larry-ellison-buying-tiktok-calls-us-permit-key-to-1-trillion-valuation">Trump Open To Elon Musk Or Larry Ellison Buying TikTok: Calls US Permit Key To $1 Trillion Valuation</a>
Why It Matters: The strategic shift comes after Berkshire Hathaway acquired the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/m-a/24/01/36654103/warren-buffetts-berkshire-hathaway-snaps-up-remaining-20-stake-in-pilot-travel-centers-from-haslam-f">remaining 20% stake in Pilot</a> from the Haslam family in January 2024, following a legal dispute over the company&#8217;s valuation. Pilot&#8217;s performance has declined significantly, with pre-tax profit falling from $2.3 billion in 2022 to $1.06 billion in 2023.
The company began scaling back its trading operations in 2023, laying off 15 employees including Vice President Steven Hollerbach, after Buffett increased his stake to 80%. The latest move represents a complete withdrawal from international trading, which Pilot had expanded into after Berkshire&#8217;s initial 39% investment in 2017.
Pilot, founded in 1958 by Jim Haslam, operates more than 650 travel centers and 75 fuel-only locations across North America. The company reported revenue of over $36 billion in the first nine months of 2024, with pre-tax earnings of approximately $486 million, both showing year-over-year declines.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43111153/nvidia-and-ai-stock-rises-as-trump-announces-500-billion-stargate-ai-infrastructure-venture">Nvidia, AI Stocks Rise As Trump Announces $500 Billion Stargate AI Infrastructure Venture</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Warren Buffett's Pilot Co Exits Global Oil Trading, Refocuses On US Operations: Report

Leading cryptocurrencies surged Tuesday after the SEC under President Donald Trump launched a dedicated cryptocurrency task force.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 8:00 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+4.61%</td>
<td>$105,950.10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+3.83%</td>
<td>$3,353.90</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+3.45%</td>
<td>$0.3707</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin sailed above $107,000 during U.S. afternoon hours, following Day 1 of Trump's presidency, which made no mention of cryptocurrencies.
Profit-taking pulled the apex digital asset to the $105,000 zone in overnight trading.
Ethereum also made strides, rising to an intraday high of $3,360.
The recovery coincided with the formation of a dedicated task force by SEC's Acting Chair, Mark Uyeda, intending to develop a clear regulatory framework for the cryptocurrency industry.
The uptick hit traders betting on price declines in futures markets, with about $133 million in short positions getting liquidated.
Bitcoin's Open Interest jumped 4.71% in the last 24 hours. An increase in Open Interest, coinciding with an increase in the spot price, indicated an influx of new money into the derivatives.
That said, the number of traders shorting Bitcoin rose in comparison to those betting on a price increase, according to the Long/Short Ratio.
The "Extreme Greed" sentiment in the market intensified, according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index.
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
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<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 8:00 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ai16z (AI16Z)</td>
<td>+22.01%</td>
<td>$1.13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Official Trump (TRUMP)</td>
<td>+18.77%</td>
<td>$42.97</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sonic (prev. FTM (S)</td>
<td>+17.69%</td>
<td>$0.608</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.63 trillion, rising by 2.02% in the last 24 hours.
Stocks rallied a day after Trump was sworn in as U.S. president. The Dow Jones Industrial Average lifted 537.98 points, or 1.24%, to close at 44,025.81. The S&amp;P 500 rose 0.88%, ending at 6,049.24, while the tech-focused Nasdaq Composite gained 0.64% to close at 19,756.78.
The rally came as the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/01/43084601/trump-day-1-executive-order-tsunami-incoming-energy-inflation-immigration-in-focus-but-what-about-tariffs"> president stopped short</a> of imposing new import tariffs on his first day in office, providing temporary relief for the market.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Widely followed cryptocurrency analyst Ali Martinez noted that Bitcoin's network activity was robust, with growth in daily active addresses and whale transactions.
"This trend signals a positive outlook for potential price appreciation," the analyst remarked.
<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"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> network activity remains strong, with daily active addresses and whale transactions increasing simultaneously. This trend signals a positive outlook for potential price appreciation. <a href="https://t.co/EMf8uyv3SB">pic.twitter.com/EMf8uyv3SB</a>
&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1881806474050941315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Martinez highlighted whale interest in his other post, showing that over $2.24 billion worth of Bitcoin was snapped by large investors over the last 3 days.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Whales have bought over 22,000 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> in the last 72 hours, worth more than $2.24 billion! <a href="https://t.co/bl87JcROKU">pic.twitter.com/bl87JcROKU</a>
&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1881853030582395093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Popular cryptocurrency trader Michaël van de Poppe issued bold predictions for Bitcoin and altcoins in the ongoing cycle.
"I&#8217;d rather look at valuations similar to the Dot.com bubble. $15-25 trillion of cryptocurrency market valuations. Bitcoin to $300,000+," the trader projected.
<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">I think that this cycle we&#39;ll see <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> tend to have a 2017-type of cycle. In that sense, $150K isn&#39;t a target for me. I&#39;d rather look at valuations similar to the <a href="https://t.co/GoodB359DI">https://t.co/GoodB359DI</a> bubble. $15-25T of crypto market valuations. Bitcoin to $300K+.
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1881792381017874591?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

$DOGE

$ETH

Bitcoin, Ethereum Rally Amid SEC's Plans To Establish Crypto Regulations: Top Trader Issues $300,000 Target For BTC This Cycle

President Donald Trump expressed openness to Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Elon Musk or Oracle Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) Chairman Larry Ellison acquiring TikTok, marking a significant shift in the platform&#8217;s uncertain future amid regulatory challenges.
What Happened: Speaking at a press briefing Tuesday, Trump suggested ByteDance could find &#8220;the ultimate partner&#8221; in either tech executive while proposing an unusual arrangement in which half of TikTok&#8217;s ownership would be transferred to the U.S. government in exchange for operating permits.
"I would be if [Musk] he wanted to buy it, yes," Trump said. "I'd like Larry to buy it, too."
The comments follow Trump&#8217;s Monday executive order <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43088960/trump-suspends-us-tiktok-ban-for-75-days-with-executive-order-but-legal-and-market-uncertain">suspending TikTok&#8217;s ban for 75 days</a>, temporarily halting restrictions that took effect after the Supreme Court upheld national security legislation targeting the platform. The law requires ByteDance to divest TikTok&#8217;s U.S. operations to continue operating in the country.
Trump&#8217;s stance on TikTok has evolved considerably since 2020, when he attempted to ban the app through executive action. The shift reportedly came after a February meeting with Jeff Yass, a prominent Republican donor and ByteDance <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42654769/tiktok-ban-under-trump-president-elect-wants-to-keep-months-after-pelosi-said-follow-the-money">investor who also holds stakes</a> in Trump&#8217;s Truth Social platform.
Market analysts value TikTok&#8217;s U.S. operations at approximately $50 billion, though Trump claimed the business could be worth up to $1 trillion with proper operating permits. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43111153/nvidia-and-ai-stock-rises-as-trump-announces-500-billion-stargate-ai-infrastructure-venture">Nvidia, AI Stocks Rise As Trump Announces $500 Billion Stargate AI Infrastructure Venture</a>
Why It Matters: The situation has attracted interest from major tech players. Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43078310/mark-zuckerbergs-instagram-doubles-down-on-tiktok-rivalry-with-new-edits-app-to-lure-creators-as-the-potential-shutdown-sparks-alternatives">launched its video creation app</a> &#8220;Edits&#8221; amid TikTok&#8217;s uncertainty, while Amazon.com Inc. founder Jeff Bezos&#8216; Perplexity reportedly made a $50 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43078206/jeff-bezos-backed-perplexity-reportedly-makes-50-billion-move-to-merge-with-tiktok-but-elon-musks-x-remains-this-analysts-favorite-bidder">billion merger offer</a>.
Chinese officials have shown potential flexibility regarding a sale. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning stated that companies should decide on business operations and acquisitions based on market principles.
The platform&#8217;s fate remains uncertain as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s Google (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) continue withholding TikTok from their app stores, citing U.S. legal requirements, despite service restoration for existing users.
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Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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Trump Open To Elon Musk Or Larry Ellison Buying TikTok: Calls US Permit Key To $1 Trillion Valuation

Fulfilling his campaign promise, President Donald Trump granted Ross Ulbricht, the creator of the illegal drug marketplace Silk Road, a full pardon on Tuesday.
What Happened: Through a post on his Truth Social account, Trump said he signed an executive order granting a &#8220;full and unconditional&#8221; pardon to Ulbricht, who was serving a double life sentence since 2013 for creating the darknet website. 
&#8220;I just called the mother of Ross William Ulbright to let her know that in honor of her and the Libertarian Movement, which supported me so strongly, it was my pleasure to have just signed a full and unconditional pardon of her son, Ross,&#8221; Trump&#8217;s <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113869112741612092">post</a> read.
The president slammed those involved in Ulbricht&#8217;s conviction, referring to them as &#8220;scum&#8221; and &#8220;lunatics.&#8221; Trump said the same group of people weaponized the government machinery against him.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43087038/trump-names-uyeda-acting-sec-chair-as-crypto-regulations-get-set-for-a-makeover">Trump Names Uyeda Acting SEC Chair, Regulators Get Ready For Crypto Makeover</a>
Why It Matters: Trump&#8217;s pardon follows his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/05/39023260/trump-vows-to-commute-sentence-of-silk-road-founder-ross-ulbricht-amid-boos-and-jeers-at-liberta" target="_blank" rel="noopener">campaign promise</a> to commute Ulbricht&#8217;s sentence at the Libertarian National Convention last year. The vow was seen as a bid to court Libertarian voters, who have <a href="https://www.lp.org/libertarian-party-calls-for-pardoning-of-ross-ulbricht/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">long lobbied for his release</a>.
The Silk Road website was established in 2011 and was subsequently shut down by the FBI in 2013, following Ulbricht&#8217;s arrest. The site was a hub of the illegal trafficking of heroin, cocaine, LSD, and other substances, all paid for in Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>). It is estimated that the platform facilitated $1 billion worth of illicit transactions in the apex cryptocurrency.
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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.<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/apis?utm_source=benzinga.com&amp;utm_campaign=article-bottom" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"></a>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

President Trump Signs Executive Order To Pardon Silk Road Creator Ross Ulbricht

ArriVent BioPharma, Inc. (Company or ArriVent) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVBP#NASDAQ">AVBP</a>) a clinical-stage company dedicated to accelerating the global development of innovative biopharmaceutical therapeutics, today announced that it has entered into an exclusive license agreement with Lepu Biopharma Co., Ltd (Stock Code: 02157.HK) for MRG007, an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) that can target several gastrointestinal (GI) cancers. Under the terms of the agreement, ArriVent obtains the exclusive rights to develop and commercialize MRG007 worldwide outside of Greater China which includes mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

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ArriVent BioPharma Entered Exclusive License With Lepu Biopharma For MRG007, An Antibody Drug Conjugate For Treatment Of Gastrointestinal Cancers

Immutep Limited ((ASX: IMM, NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IMMP#NASDAQ">IMMP</a>) ("Immutep" or "the Company"), a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel LAG-3 immunotherapies for cancer and autoimmune disease, today announces that patient enrolment has been completed in the investigatorinitiated EFTISARC-NEO trial. EFTISARC-NEO is evaluating eftilagimod alpha (efti) in combination with radiotherapy plus KEYTRUDA&#xAE; (pembrolizumab) in the neoadjuvant setting for patients with resectable soft tissue sarcoma (STS). The Phase II trial conducted by the Maria Skłodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology (MSCNRIO) in Warsaw, the national reference centre for STS in Poland, has reached its enrolment target of 40 patients

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Immutep Reported Patient Enrolment Completed for EFTISARC-NEO Phase II Trial

A highly publicized ban of TikTok by the U.S. led to other apps getting caught in the crossfire, including a game featuring Marvel superheroes. Here's a look at what happened and what the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43088960/trump-suspends-us-tiktok-ban-for-75-days-with-executive-order-but-legal-and-market-uncertainty-looms-over-platforms-future"> executive order signed</a> by President Donald Trump means for the game's future.
What Happened: The Supreme Court recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43060894/supreme-court-upholds-tiktok-ban-ahead-of-trumps-inauguration">upheld a ban</a> on TikTok in the U.S., following a congressional ruling that parent company ByteDance would have to divest the U.S. division of the company by Jan. 19.
While TikTok <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43076609/tiktok-back-online-in-us-after-trump-vows-monday-executive-order">went dark briefly </a>over the weekend, an executive order signed by Trump provided an additional lifeline for ByteDance for 75 days.
Along with TikTok going dark on app stores from Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>)(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) and Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) as part of the pending ban, other apps owned by ByteDance companies also disappeared from the stores and for a brief time were unusable.
This includes Marvel Snap, a mobile collectible card <a href="https://www.marvelsnap.com/home">game </a>that features characters from the Marvel Universe. The game was developed by Second Dinner and published by Nuverse, a ByteDance subsidiary, in 2022, as <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/news/2025/01/19/tiktok-ban-lemon8-capcut-marvel-snap/77825175007/">reported </a>by USA Today.
The game uses Marvel characters from the comic book company owned by Walt Disney Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>).
A search for Marvel Snap on the Google Play Store Tuesday brought up other Marvel titles with the app still <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42957741/tiktok-ban-deadline-ahead-what-will-happen-to-app-on-your-phone">unavailable for download</a>. Existing owners of the app saw service restored in the U.S, as <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/20/24348353/marvel-snap-tiktok-ban-back-online">reported </a>by The Verge. The ban also impacted the PC version of the game, according to the company's announcement of the ban.
"Unfortunately, Marvel Snap is temporarily unavailable in U.S. app stores and is unavailable to play in the U.S. In a surprise to Second Dinner and our publisher Nuverse, Marvel Snap was affected by the takedown of TikTok late on Saturday, January 18," Second Dinner <a href="https://marvelsnapzone.com/marvel-snap-is-banned-in-the-united-states/">said </a>previously.
Second Dinner Chief Development Officer Ben Brode told followers on social media that no warning was given to the company or Nuverse that their app would be part of the ban.
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Why It's Important: The ban of ByteDance apps was a large talking point mainly around TikTok, but several other apps were hurt by the ruling and are now affected.
Along with Marvel Snap, here are some other apps that ByteDance owns or controls that faced a similar fate.
<ul>
<li>Lemon8: social media platform</li>
<li>CapCut: video editing software</li>
<li>Gauth: artificial intelligence homework aid</li>
<li>Hypic: photo editing software</li>
<li>Lark: enterprise collaboration platform</li>
</ul>
Based on the timing of the ban still pending, these apps and the Marvel game could continue to be disallowed in app stores and could go dark in the future.
Second Dinner is ready to ensure this doesn't happen again by making changes.
"Marvel Snap is back online in the U.S. But to make sure this NEVER happens again, we're working to bring more services in-house and partner with a new publisher. This is the start of a new era for Marvel Snap." the company <a href="https://x.com/seconddinner/status/1881535498709266691">shared </a>on social media.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42654769/tiktok-ban-under-trump-president-elect-wants-to-keep-months-after-pelosi-said-follow-the-money">TikTok Ban Under Trump? President-Elect Reconsiders As Pelosi Says &#8216;Follow The Money&#8217;</a></li>
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Photo: Mino Surkala via Shutterstock

Entertainment

Gaming

Government

Social Media

Marvel Mobile Game Goes Dark After TikTok Ban: How Disney's Superhero Brand Got Caught Up In US Vs. China Battle

PDD Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PDD#NASDAQ">PDD</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 10.01% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 23.27%. Currently, PDD Holdings has a market capitalization of $144.22 billion. 
Buying $1000 In PDD: If an investor had bought $1000 of PDD stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $2,789.23 today based on a price of $103.85 for PDD at the time of writing.
<h3>PDD Holdings's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737503109_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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Citigourp Global Markets 2% Protected Notes Linked To The Djia

$1000 Invested In This Stock 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

As the oldest members of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42325436/despite-having-the-highest-income-gen-x-also-carries-the-most-debt-explaining-their-rock-bottom-consumer-sentiment">Generation X</a> (those born between 1965 and 1980) approach retirement, financial experts warn that many in this group may not be as prepared as they think. Generation X faces unique challenges as they prepare for retired life, from shortfalls in savings to unexpected costs that may arise.&nbsp;
Here's what experts say Gen Xers need to know to avoid these key pitfalls and ensure a more <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/41918104/are-you-on-track-to-retire-rich-heres-the-nest-egg-you-need-to-be-considered-a-wealthy-retiree">secure retirement</a>.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Look At Your Savings Goals</h2>
Many Gen Xers are significantly behind in their retirement savings. A recent study by Northwestern Mutual found that only 7% of Gen X respondents have saved more than 10 times their annual income–the amount most experts recommend for a comfortable retirement.&nbsp;
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<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
<li>The average 401(k) balance soars to a record-breaking high – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/average-401k-balances-soars-to-record-high">but what&#8217;s driving it?</a></li>
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Perhaps even more concerning, over half of Gen X respondents say they have only saved three times their annual income or less. Fidelity recommends having at least three times your annual salary by age 40, six times your salary by age 50 and eight times your salary by age 60 to stay on track for a comfortable retirement.&nbsp;
This shortfall in savings is compounded by the fact that many Gen Xers do not have a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/24/11/41702991/americans-worried-theyll-mess-up-retirement-income-planning-almost-half-fear-">retirement income plan</a>. According to Allianz, only 30% of Gen Xers have mapped out how they will fund their post-work years, the lowest rate among all generations surveyed.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Taxes and Healthcare Expenses</h2>
A common misconception among Americans is that taxes decrease in retirement. However, financial experts caution that many Gen Xers could face higher-than-expected tax burdens. The reason? Most have their retirement savings in tax-deferred accounts, like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/42154984/new-findings-show-iras-and-401ks-contribute-less-than-20-of-retirees-income">401(k)s and IRAs</a>, which require taxes to be paid upon withdrawal.&nbsp;
"The big problem is that a lot of them are going to be faced with a lot of taxes in retirement," Jonathan Dane, founder and chief investment officer for Defiant Capital Group in Pittsburgh, told U.S. News. He says one way to mitigate this is to stop putting money in tax-deferred accounts and transition to Roth accounts, which allow for tax-free withdrawals.
See Also: The Biggest Disruption to IP since Disney — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elf-labs-1">Get in now as they monetize a $2 Trillion market by building content around the most profitable Character IP in history and combining it with the Patented Technology IP of the future.</a>
Another concern is healthcare costs. While Medicare provides comprehensive coverage starting at age 65, it doesn't cover everything. Long-term care expenses, like assisted living, typically aren't included. Experts suggest considering long-term care insurance or using a health savings account (HSA) to prepare for these costs.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Budgeting and Withdrawal Strategies</h2>
Financial planners warn that many Gen Xers don't clearly understand their spending habits. "They've been getting a paycheck for the last 40 years and they just don't know what they spend," Zach Ungerott of Hightower Wealth Advisors told U.S. News.
Knowing when and how much to withdraw from savings can make a significant difference. Starting withdrawals at age 59 ½ allows penalty-free access to funds in tax-advantaged accounts, but withdrawing too much too quickly risks prematurely depleting savings.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Updating Estate Plans and Investments</h2>
Many Gen Xers have outdated estate plans that don't reflect their current wishes. Reviewing and updating wills, beneficiary designations and other documents is essential to ensure assets are distributed as intended.
Investment strategies may also need adjustment. While Gen X has benefited from stock market gains, experts suggest diversifying into more stable assets like bonds or annuities to protect against market downturns.
With retirement on the horizon, Generation X has limited time to close savings gaps, reassess strategies and prepare for potential obstacles. Working with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-online-financial-advisors">financial professional</a> can help this generation create a plan tailored to their needs, ensuring they are better positioned for a secure retirement.
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'It Won't Be Enough': Financial Experts Warn Gen X About Key Retirement Pitfalls

Fortinet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTNT#NASDAQ">FTNT</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 20.28% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 33.54%. Currently, Fortinet has a market capitalization of $74.35 billion. 
Buying $100 In FTNT: If an investor had bought $100 of FTNT stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $411.90 today based on a price of $97.00 for FTNT at the time of writing.
<h3>Fortinet's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737502210_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

FTNT

$100 Invested In Fortinet 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the current bird flu outbreak has caused 67 human cases of bird flu in the U.S. and one death associated with the virus. The virus was confirmed on Friday at a commercial poultry production facility in Georgia, the nation's top state <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/01/43046294/bird-flu-raising-red-flags-among-health-officials-cdc-urges-faster-testing">for chicken production. </a>
What To Know: The CDC said that the current public health risk is low and the agency is watching the situation carefully and monitoring people with animal exposures. Bird flu is "widespread in wild birds worldwide and is causing outbreaks in poultry and U.S. dairy cows with several recent human cases in U.S. dairy and poultry workers," the CDC stated in its <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/bird-flu/situation-summary/index.html">most recent</a> update.&nbsp;
On Friday, the Georgia Department of Agriculture announced it <a href="https://agr.georgia.gov/avian-influenza">detected</a> a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza at a commercial poultry producer in the state. The case marks the first in Georgia, the nation's top state for chicken production, since the 2022 countrywide outbreak. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/01/43106379/trump-reverses-bidens-ai-policies-on-day-1-what-it-means-for-tech-giants-nvidia-amd-alphabet">Trump Reverses Biden&#8217;s AI Policies On Day 1: What It Means For Tech Giants Nvidia, AMD, Alphabet&nbsp;</a>
"This is a serious threat to Georgia's #1 industry and the livelihoods of thousands of Georgians who make their living in our state's poultry industry," Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said in a news release.&nbsp;
According to an AP News<a href="https://apnews.com/article/bird-flu-georgia-chicken-commercial-flock-a5bcad4662d4cf60212f6acb4a55d2ad"> report,</a> the bird flu virus has been detected in 84 commercial and backyard flocks in the past month with 10.7 million birds affected. The virus has also been confirmed in dozens of dairy farms.
What Else: On Friday, Moderna Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>) announced <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/01/43105845/why-is-moderna-stock-trading-higher-on-tuesday-2">it received</a> an additional $590 million award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to accelerate the development of its mRNA-based influenza vaccines, including bird flu.
In 2023, Moderna commenced a Phase 1/2 study to generate safety and immunogenicity data for an investigational pandemic influenza vaccine (mRNA-1018) candidate against the H5 and H7 avian influenza viruses. Based on the preliminary data from the Phase 1/2 study, Moderna is preparing to advance mRNA-1018 into Phase 3. 
Other pharmaceutical companies, including Novavax Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVAX#NASDAQ">NVAX</a>), have bird flu vaccine candidates currently in clinical trials. 
CureVac BV (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVAC#NASDAQ">CVAC</a>) started a phase I/II study on its bird flu vaccine candidate developed in collaboration with GSK plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>). 
Egg producer Cal-Maine Foods Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CALM#NYSE">CALM</a>) reported<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/42862269/cal-maine-foods-stock-climbs-after-strong-q2-results-eps-beat-revenues-beat"> its most recent </a>quarterly revenue of $954.7 million, well above the  $751.49 million consensus estimate, due in part to restricted supply resulting from highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks. Cal-Maine Foods stock gained more than 75% over the past six months. 
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Photo: Shutterstock

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Bird Flu Update: First Commercial Case In Georgia, Moderna Receives $590 Million To Develop Vaccine

Super Micro Computer (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 11.59% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 23.61%. Currently, Super Micro Computer has a market capitalization of $19.00 billion. 
Buying $100 In SMCI: If an investor had bought $100 of SMCI stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $2,795.00 today based on a price of $32.45 for SMCI at the time of writing.
<h3>Super Micro Computer's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737501309_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

SMCI

Here's How Much $100 Invested In Super Micro Computer 15 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

An executive order signed by President Donald Trump put an emphasis on ending electric vehicle plans put in place by former President Joe Biden and could put an end to the $7,500 tax credits that helped <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/electric-vehicles">boost the sector.</a>
What Happened: One of Trump's first tasks since becoming president <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43090016/here-are-the-evs-which-could-lose-7500-ev-tax-credit-under-trump-administration">was to sign </a>the "Unleashing American Energy" executive order.
Trump's order says he is eliminating the "electric vehicle mandate" and also terminating the Green New Deal.
While Trump may need additional approval to end the $7,500 tax credit American consumers can currently get for buying numerous electric vehicle models, including several from Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), the order pauses the disbursement of funds that were part of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022.
The electric vehicle tax credits have helped boost sales of EVs over the past several years, including Tesla. Once a beneficiary of tax credits for his company, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has changed his tune about the credits in recent years.
Musk <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39934750/trump-presidency-and-ira-cut-would-be-devastating-for-competitors-says-elon-musk-long-term-probably">said recently</a> that he was okay with the tax credits going away and has pledged his support to Trump, who he supported during the 2024 presidential election.
In a quarterly earnings call in July 2024, Musk said Trump winning the election and the end of the tax credits could be "devastating" for Tesla rivals, but would likely end up being a long-term positive for his company. &nbsp;
"Long term probably actually helps Tesla, would be my guess, yes," Musk said at the time.
With the potential of the EV tax credits going away, Tesla influencer Sawyer Merritt conducted a poll on social media platform X to see if people thought the move would help or hurt Tesla.
"Long-term is the U.S. EV credit disappearing bullish, bearish, or neutral for Tesla," Merritt asked.
Here are the poll <a href="https://x.com/SawyerMerritt/status/1881777072017649722">results</a>, based on 16,294 votes.
<ul>
<li>Bullish: 40.4%</li>
<li>Neutral: 27.5%</li>
<li>Bearish: 19.4%</li>
<li>See Results: 12.6%</li>
</ul>
The largest percentage of voters believe the EV tax credit going away would be bullish for Tesla. This is likely related to the belief that the move would be bad for most EV companies, but hurt Tesla's competitors more. Tesla has profitability per vehicle and vertical integration for manufacturing, which helps the company on costs and scale.
When asked for his opinion, Merritt said he was neutral on the potential change.
"Hard to argue that it's really bullish since Tesla is currently the largest beneficiary of the EV credit, but it disappearing I don't think will be a negative as some are suggesting. Tesla is no doubt in the strongest position to withstand the impact of it disappearing vs their legacy auto competition," Merritt said.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/43088582/gary-black-questions-elon-musks-take-on-ev-credit-removal-after-tesla-sales-drop-in-europe-not-sure-how-the-math-works">Gary Black Questions Elon Musk&#8217;s Take On EV Credit Removal After Tesla Sales Drop In Europe: &#8216;Not Sure How The Math Works&#8217;</a>
Why It's Important: Musk's stance on being against tax credits that help boost the market share of electric vehicle companies could be a surprise to many given his past support for the sector.
"Since the company's inception in 2003, Tesla's mission has been to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy," Tesla's website <a href="https://www.tesla.com/elon-musk">reads</a>.
Musk has said in the past that the acceleration of sustainable energy is fundamental to the future of humanity, as reported by <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/02/04/elon-musk-on-the-why-and-purpose-behind-tesla.html#:~:text=We%20created%20Tesla%20to%20accelerate,for%20humanity%2C%22%20Musk%20said.">CNBC</a>.
These days, Musk and Tesla are focusing heavily on autonomous vehicles which could be the next political move by the Trump administration. Trump<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/24/10/41298125/maybe-musk-missed-the-memo-trumps-plan-to-ban-autonomous-vehicles-could-sour-friendship"> previously said he </a>would ban autonomous vehicles from American roads.
Since then, Trump may have reversed his stance and come around to help boost the future of Musk's company by pushing autonomous vehicle testing forward and making Tesla's vision a reality.
Musk has watched his wealth soar <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/24/12/42444955/elon-musk-first-person-worth-400-billion-as-tesla-stock-hits-new-all-time-highs-how-2024-election-helped-could-lead-to-future-gains">to over $400 billion</a> since Trump won the 2024 presidential election.
While the new EV tax credit rules could be bad for the electric vehicle sector over time, the current president is likely going to be good for Musk and his company. The question is what the short and long-term impacts on Tesla will be. Based on the poll, investors don't seem too concerned about the potential loss of EV tax credits.
TSLA Price Action: Tesla stock closed down 0.57% to $424.07 on Tuesday versus a 52-week trading range of $138.80 to $488.54. Tesla stock is up 103% over the last year. Tesla's drop came while many stocks were up on the first trading day after Trump's inauguration with the SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF up 0.92% to $603.05 Tuesday.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42986863/us-electric-vehicle-sales-hit-record-1-3-million-units-in-2024-despite-tesla-declines-top-10-bestsel">US Electric Vehicle Sales Hit Record 1.3 Million Units In 2024, Despite Tesla Declines: Top 10 Bestselling Models</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Courtesy Tesla

Trump's Plan To End $7,500 EV Tax Credits Could Be 'Devastating' For Telsa Rivals, Poll Says Could Be Bullish For Elon Musk's Company

Lockheed Martin (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 3.08% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 11.6%. Currently, Lockheed Martin has a market capitalization of $118.93 billion. 
Buying $100 In LMT: If an investor had bought $100 of LMT stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $897.68 today based on a price of $506.00 for LMT at the time of writing.
<h3>Lockheed Martin's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1737500410_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$100 Invested In Lockheed Martin 20 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

This is subject to the completion of the Reverse Stock Split.

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