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Apple is among the largest companies in the world, with a broad portfolio of hardware and software products targeted at consumers and businesses. Apple's iPhone makes up a majority of the firm sales, and Apple's other products like Mac, iPad, and Watch are designed around the iPhone as the focal point of an expansive software ecosystem. Apple has progressively worked to add new applications, like streaming video, subscription bundles, and augmented reality. The firm designs its own software and semiconductors while working with subcontractors like Foxconn and TSMC to build its products and chips. Slightly less than half of Apple's sales come directly through its flagship stores, with a majority of sales coming indirectly through partnerships and distribution.

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Apple deberá pagar 14.000 millones en impuestos a Irlanda mientras lanza el iPhone 16, su primer smartphone con IA integrada.

Apple obligada a pagar $14000M en impuestos a Irlanda mientras lanza el iPhone 16 con IA

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Huawei presenta su Mate XT plegable con IA avanzada y un precio inicial de 2800 dólares. ¿Podrá competir con el nuevo iPhone 16?

Huawei lanza el Mate XT: Teléfono plegable de alta gama para competir con el iPhone 16 de Apple

Apple presenta el iPhone 16 y Apple Watch 10, destacando su enfoque en inteligencia artificial y salud. Descubre todas las novedades aquí.

Apple presenta el iPhone 16: potencia en IA y cámaras mejoradas

Apple Inc

Over the week, the tech world buzzed with significant developments. From potential policy shifts affecting Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) suppliers to Japan&#8217;s leap into the AI industrial revolution, the landscape is changing rapidly. Here&#8217;s a quick roundup of the top stories.
Nvidia, Apple Suppliers Brace for Policy Changes
Key suppliers for Nvidia and Apple, including Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HNHPF#OTC">HNHPF</a>), also known as Foxconn, Pegatron Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PGTRF#OTC">PGTRF</a>), and Quanta Computer (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QUCCF#OTC">QUCCF</a>), are gearing up for a potential surge in U.S. investments amid potential trade policy shifts under a possible second term for Donald Trump.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42001994/nvidia-and-apple-suppliers-brace-for-trumps-return-foxconn-pegatron-quanta-ready-for-rapid-us-investment-surge-amid-trade-policy-shifts">Read the full article here.</a>
Nvidia and SoftBank&#8217;s AI Supercomputer in Japan
In a significant move towards becoming a global AI powerhouse, Nvidia and SoftBank Group (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBF#OTC">SFTBF</a>) announced a partnership to establish Japan&#8217;s most powerful AI supercomputer. The collaboration, unveiled at the Nvidia AI Summit Japan, will leverage Nvidia&#8217;s advanced Blackwell platform.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41929194/nvidia-and-softbank-to-build-japans-top-ai-supercomputer-on-blackwell-platform-jensen-huang-says-tokyo-is-leaping-into-the-ai-industrial-revolution">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41927913/amazon-confirms-vendor-data-breach-affecting-2-8m-employee-contacts-adds-to-growing-list-of-moveit-hack-victims?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Confirms Vendor Data Breach Affecting 2.8M+ Employee Contacts, Adds To Growing List Of MOVEit Hack</a>
AMD&#8217;s Workforce Cut Amid AI Chip Development Shift
Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>) has reportedly decided to lay off approximately 1,000 employees, representing 4% of its global workforce. The move is part of AMD&#8217;s strategic shift towards AI chip development to compete with Nvidia in the data center chip market.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41961230/amd-plans-to-cut-4-of-workforce-amid-strategic-shift-toward-ai-chip-development-to-rival-jensen-huang-led-nvidias-dominance-report">Read the full article here.</a>
Nvidia&#8217;s Blackwell Chip Revenue Forecast
Ahead of Nvidia&#8217;s third-quarter results announcement next week, Morgan Stanley analyst Joseph Moore has previewed the company&#8217;s outlook. Despite supply constraints on new products, Moore predicts several billion in revenue from Blackwell chips alone in the January quarter, with a more precise figure of between $5 billion and $6 billion.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41883803/nvidias-blackwell-chip-revenue-could-hit-6-billion-next-quarter-analyst">Read the full article here.</a>
AI Capabilities Plateau, Say Andreessen Horowitz Founders
The founders of venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz have noted a plateau in artificial intelligence capabilities, citing data shortages and computational limitations as key barriers. This observation aligns with recent statements from Ilya Sutskever, co-founder of OpenAI and Safe Superintelligence (SSI), who acknowledged that results from traditional AI scaling approaches have plateaued.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41932289/ai-capabilities-plateauing-say-andreessen-horowitz-founders-echoing-concerns-of-openai-co-founder-ilya-sutskever">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/42022443/ibm-disney-and-other-large-advertisers-return-to-elon-musks-x-after-a-year-long-boycott-we-super-appreciate">IBM, Disney And Other Large Advertisers Return To Elon Musk&#8217;s X After A Year-Long Boycott</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

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Nvidia, Apple Suppliers Prepare For Policy Shifts, Japan's AI Leap, And AMD's Workforce Cut: This Week In AI

It was a rollercoaster week for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>). From facing a hefty legal claim in the UK to receiving directives from the EU, the tech giant had its hands full. Amidst these challenges, Apple also revealed exciting plans for new tech products set to challenge industry competitors. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the major stories that unfolded over the weekend.
Apple Faces $3.8B Legal Claim Over iCloud
Consumer group Which? has lodged a £3 billion ($3.81 billion) legal claim against Apple, alleging the company breached UK competition law with its iCloud service. The claim suggests that Apple has exploited its market dominance by directing customers towards its integrated iCloud service without presenting alternative cloud storage options. The case could result in compensation for approximately 40 million UK iPhone and iPad users.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41964915/apple-faces-legal-action-over-rip-off-icloud-charges-could-pay-out-38b-to-uk-customers">Read the full article here.</a>
EU Orders Apple to End Geo-Blocking Practices
The European Union has instructed Apple to cease geo-blocking on its media services. The European Commission identified several geo-blocking practices on Apple's platforms, including the App Store, Apple Arcade, Music, iTunes Store, Books, and Podcasts. The Commission warned of potential enforcement actions by national regulators if Apple fails to address these issues.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41897368/apple-ordered-by-eu-to-end-geo-blocking-on-app-store-itunes-and-other-apps">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41895759/amazon-set-to-introduce-new-ai-chips-in-december-to-rival-jensen-huangs-ai-stalwart-we-want-to-be-absolutely-the-best-place-to-run-nvidia?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Set To Introduce New AI Chips In December To Rival Jensen Huang&#8217;s AI Stalwart</a>
Apple&#8217;s New AI Wall Tablet Set to Challenge Amazon and Google
Apple reportedly plans to unveil a new AI wall tablet, codenamed J490, to compete with Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and 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>) Google in the smart home race. The device, expected to be announced as early as March, will serve as a home command center.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41928049/apples-new-ai-wall-tablet-with-siri-and-video-calling-set-to-challenge-amazon-and-google-in-smart-home-race">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple&#8217;s Smart Camera Coming in 2026
Apple is reportedly planning to enter the smart home IP camera market in 2026, aiming for "tens of millions" of annual shipments, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. The device will integrate with Apple products, with a goal of more than 10 million annual shipments.
<a href="https://benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41891237/apples-smart-camera-coming-in-2026-cupertino-eyeing-tens-of-millions-in-annual-shipments-says-top-supply-chain-analyst">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple&#8217;s iOS 18.1 Update Adds &#8216;Inactivity Reboot&#8217;
Apple has introduced an automatic reboot feature for idle iPhones in its latest iOS 18.1 update to enhance device security. The new feature triggers an automatic reboot of an iPhone that has been idle for a certain period.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41873261/apples-ios-18-1-update-adds-inactivity-reboot-to-lock-down-unused-iphones-heres-how-it-protects-your-privacy">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41932289/ai-capabilities-plateauing-say-andreessen-horowitz-founders-echoing-concerns-of-openai-co-founder-ilya-sutskever?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI Capabilities Plateauing, Say Andreessen Horowitz Founders, Echoing Concerns Of OpenAI Co-Founder Ilya Sutskever</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Unsplash
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

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This Week In Appleverse: $3.8B Lawsuit, EU Directives, And Upcoming Products

The European Union has directed&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) to discontinue geo-blocking on its media services. The European Commission has identified several geo-blocking practices on Apple's platforms, including the App Store, Apple Arcade, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41897368/apple-ordered-by-eu-to-end-geo-blocking-on-app-store-itunes-and-other-apps" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Music, iTunes Store, Books, and Podcasts</a>.
Following the 2024 U.S. Presidential election, Taylor Swift's fanbase, known as "Swifties," have reportedly started leaving Elon Musk‘s social media platform X, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41872302/taylor-swift-fans-abandon-elon-musks-x-for-bluesky-how-trumps-election-victory-triggered-swifties-uprising" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">formerly </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41872302/taylor-swift-fans-abandon-elon-musks-x-for-bluesky-how-trumps-election-victory-triggered-swifties-uprising" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Twitter</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41872302/taylor-swift-fans-abandon-elon-musks-x-for-bluesky-how-trumps-election-victory-triggered-swifties-uprising" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">, for </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41872302/taylor-swift-fans-abandon-elon-musks-x-for-bluesky-how-trumps-election-victory-triggered-swifties-uprising" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bluesky</a>.
Gaming
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) Gaming CEO&nbsp;Phil Spencer&nbsp;has confirmed the company has its sights set on a handheld gaming device under the Xbox brand. He did temper expectations, saying the device is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/11/41948549/xbox-handheld-a-few-years-out-says-microsoft-gaming-ceo-hints-at-cross-platform-games-new-acquisitions" rel="noreferrer noopener">still &#8220;a few years out&#8221;&nbsp;from release</a>.
Nintendo Co., Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTDOY#OTC">NTDOY</a>) filed a lawsuit against a gamer for allegedly streaming pirated games <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/11/41887408/nintendo-sues-streamer-over-pirated-games-claims-millions-dollars-lost-revenue" rel="noreferrer noopener">before their&nbsp;official release dates</a>.
Valve is launching a limited-edition Steam Deck OLED: White Edition on Nov. 18, with global <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/11/41914135/valves-steam-deck-oled-gets-makeover-heres-what-you-need-to-know" rel="noreferrer noopener">availability and limited stock.</a>
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/gaming/24/11/41884190/did-rockstar-drop-gta-6-trailer-hint-fans-spot-moon-clue-pointing-to-nov-22" rel="noreferrer noopener">Did Rockstar Drop GTA 6 Trailer Hint? Fans Spot Moon Clue Pointing To Nov. 22</a>
Smartphones
Apple introduced an automatic reboot feature for idle&nbsp;iPhones in its latest&nbsp;iOS 18.1 update <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41873261/apples-ios-18-1-update-adds-inactivity-reboot-to-lock-down-unused-iphones-heres-how-it-protects-your-privacy" rel="noreferrer noopener">to bolster device security</a>.
Apple has begun selling repair parts&nbsp;for its latest&nbsp;iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models via <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41870693/apple-starts-selling-iphone-16-repair-parts-heres-what-you-need-to-know-about-diy-fixes-for-your-iphone" rel="noreferrer noopener">its self-service repair store</a>.
Apple reportedly plans to make its "first foray" into the smart home IP camera market in 2026, aiming for "tens of millions" of annual shipments, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41891237/apples-smart-camera-coming-in-2026-cupertino-eyeing-tens-of-millions-in-annual-shipments-says-top-supply-chain-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41891237/apples-smart-camera-coming-in-2026-cupertino-eyeing-tens-of-millions-in-annual-shipments-says-top-supply-chain-analyst" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ming-Chi Kuo</a>.
Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41894509/apples-next-big-bet-think-smaller-says-analyst-there-will-never-be-another-iphone" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple&#8217;s Next Big Bet? Think Smaller, Says Analyst: &#8216;There Will Never Be Another… iPhone&#8217;</a>
Apple reportedly plans to unveil a new AI wall tablet to challenge&nbsp;Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and&nbsp;Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41928049/apples-new-ai-wall-tablet-with-siri-and-video-calling-set-to-challenge-amazon-and-google-in-smart-home-race" rel="noreferrer noopener">in the smart home race</a>.
Apple announced a new feature for its Find My app that allows users to share the location of lost items <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41931360/apples-airtag-users-can-now-share-location-with-airlines-for-faster-recovery-of-lost-luggage" rel="noreferrer noopener">with third parties, including airlines</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41931521/apples-2024-mac-mini-is-a-compact-powerhouse-but-its-power-button-placement-is-not-the-most-accessible-here-are-some-workable-fixes" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple&#8217;s 2024 Mac Mini Is A Compact Powerhouse, But Its Power Button Placement Is Not The Most Accessible: Here Are Some Workable Fixes</a>
Consumer group&nbsp;Which?&nbsp;has filed a £3 billion ($3.81 billion) legal claim against&nbsp;Apple, accusing the tech giant of breaching U.K. competition law <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41964915/apple-faces-legal-action-over-rip-off-icloud-charges-could-pay-out-38b-to-uk-customers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">through its&nbsp;iCloud service</a>.
Online Retail
In a move to attract holiday shoppers,&nbsp;Amazon.com rolled out early Black Friday discounts on a range of&nbsp;Apple products. These deals offer significant savings on the latest MacBook Pro, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41872968/amazon-offers-early-black-friday-deals-with-up-to-350-off-on-apple-macbooks-heres-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mac mini, and MacBook Air models</a>.
Amazon is reportedly&nbsp;developing smart eyeglasses for its&nbsp;delivery drivers, aiming to streamline&nbsp;the final stretch of an&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41891126/amazons-new-smart-eyeglasses-for-drivers-aim-to-shave-seconds-off-deliveries-but-theres-more-than-what-meets-the-eye" rel="noreferrer noopener">order's journey to a customer's&nbsp;home</a>.
Amazon is preparing to introduce its newest artificial intelligence chips in December. His strategic move aims to leverage Amazon's significant investments in semiconductors and reduce reliance on Jensen <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41895759/amazon-set-to-introduce-new-ai-chips-in-december-to-rival-jensen-huangs-ai-stalwart-we-want-to-be-absolutely-the-best-place-to-run-nvidia" rel="noreferrer noopener">Huang's&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41895759/amazon-set-to-introduce-new-ai-chips-in-december-to-rival-jensen-huangs-ai-stalwart-we-want-to-be-absolutely-the-best-place-to-run-nvidia" rel="noreferrer noopener">NVIDIA Corporation </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41895759/amazon-set-to-introduce-new-ai-chips-in-december-to-rival-jensen-huangs-ai-stalwart-we-want-to-be-absolutely-the-best-place-to-run-nvidia" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)</a>.
Amazon.com&nbsp;confirmed a vendor data breach exposing employee contact information, linking the company to the widening&nbsp;MOVEit&nbsp;hack. The exact number of affected employees is unclear, but a screenshot from the hacking forum shows over 2.8 million lines <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41927913/amazon-confirms-vendor-data-breach-affecting-2-8m-employee-contacts-adds-to-growing-list-of-moveit-hack-victims" rel="noreferrer noopener">in the alleged Amazon dataset</a>.
Socia Media &amp; Technology
Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>)&nbsp;is reportedly planning to introduce ads on its&nbsp;Threads&nbsp;platform in early 2025 as&nbsp;Elon Musk's X&nbsp;is&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/41963996/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-eyes-2025-to-introduce-ads-on-threads-as-elon-musks-x-loses-favor-with-major-brands-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">losing favor with major brands</a>.
Several prominent French media organizations, including those owned by billionaire&nbsp;Bernard Arnault, have filed a lawsuit against&nbsp;Elon Musk's&nbsp;social media platform&nbsp;X&nbsp;for allegedly using <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/41964636/elon-musk-bernard-arnault-once-discussed-potential-spacex-louis-vuitton-collab-the-french-billionaires-media-group-has-now-sued-x-over-alleged-unpaid-content-use" rel="noreferrer noopener">their content without compensation</a>.
Google Gemini&nbsp;app has been spotted as a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41891904/googles-standalone-gemini-app-for-iphone-spotted-with-live-activity-what-it-could-mean-for-your-ai-experience" rel="noreferrer noopener">standalone&nbsp;app on the&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41891904/googles-standalone-gemini-app-for-iphone-spotted-with-live-activity-what-it-could-mean-for-your-ai-experience" rel="noreferrer noopener">App Store</a>.
Microsoft President&nbsp;Brad Smith&nbsp;emphasized China's swift technological advancements, suggesting they <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41939983/microsoft-president-warns-beijings-tech-progress-is-catching-up-with-the-west-people-who-dont-go-to-china-too-often-assume-theyre-behind" rel="noreferrer noopener">are on par with Western nations</a>.
Artificial Intelligence
To counter AI-driven misinformation,&nbsp;OpenAI's ChatGPT&nbsp;rejected 250,000 deepfake image requests of candidates in the month<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41870783/chatgpt-denies-250k-deepfake-requests-in-lead-up-to-election-day-aiming-to-curb-ai-driven-misinformation-in-2024-presidential-race" rel="noreferrer noopener"> before the&nbsp;2024 election</a>.
OpenAI CEO&nbsp;Sam Altman&nbsp;has expressed his appreciation for&nbsp;Tesla&nbsp;and&nbsp;SpaceX&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Elon Musk's&nbsp;initial financial <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41893707/openai-ceo-sam-altman-thanks-elon-musk-for-early-support-in-chatgpts-rise-and-shares-advice-hed-give-his-younger-self-at-stanford" rel="noreferrer noopener">backing&nbsp;in&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41893707/openai-ceo-sam-altman-thanks-elon-musk-for-early-support-in-chatgpts-rise-and-shares-advice-hed-give-his-younger-self-at-stanford" rel="noreferrer noopener">ChatGPT</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41893707/openai-ceo-sam-altman-thanks-elon-musk-for-early-support-in-chatgpts-rise-and-shares-advice-hed-give-his-younger-self-at-stanford" rel="noreferrer noopener">-parent</a>.
OpenAI co-founder&nbsp;Greg Brockman&nbsp;has announced his comeback to the AI startup<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41927135/greg-brockman-returns-to-work-at-chatgpts-parent-company-back-to-building-openai" rel="noreferrer noopener"> after a three-month leave</a>.
OpenAI&nbsp;reportedly plans to launch a new&nbsp;AI agent, codenamed <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/11/41964846/openais-operator-ai-agent-will-perform-tasks-like-coding-travel-booking-and-more-launch-expected-in-january-next-year-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8220;Operator,&#8221; in January</a>.
Dario Amodei, CEO of&nbsp;Anthropic, predicts&nbsp;AGI could become&nbsp;a reality by 2026 or 2027 but warns that external <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41928832/anthropic-ceo-says-ai-similar-to-human-intelligence-could-be-around-the-corner-well-get-there-by-2026-or-2027" rel="noreferrer noopener">factors may delay progress</a>.
Unbabel, a startup based in Lisbon, has introduced a new AI-powered translation service called Widn.AI. The company's CEO,&nbsp;Vasco Pedro, predicts that human translators might become<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41932536/ai-coming-for-translator-jobs-this-ceo-says-humans-wont-be-needed-for-translation-except-most-difficult-use-cases-in-3-years" rel="noreferrer noopener"> obsolete within the next three years</a>.

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Consumer Tech News (November 11-15): Apple Plans To Launch An AI Wall Tablet, Meta Plans To Introduce Ads On Threads & More

In the tech world, few <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/10/41457050/bill-gates-once-said-he-was-so-jealous-of-apples-steve-jobs-and-labeled-him-a-genius-and-wizard-no-o">rivalries are as legendary</a> as that between Apple's Steve Jobs and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/10/41580000/bill-gates-turns-69-5-things-you-might-not-know-about-microsoft-co-founder">Microsoft's Bill Gates</a>. The two pioneers changed the personal computer industry and how we use technology by pushing the envelope in their special ways for decades. However, when asked about his relationship with Gates in a rare joint interview, Jobs didn&#8217;t respond with competitiveness or rivalry – instead, he quoted a line from a Beatles song.
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During the 2007 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wvhW8cp15tk">interview</a>, Jobs and Gates reminisced about their long history in the industry. They laughed, remembering their early years when they were frequently the youngest in the room. Gates noted how it was always wonderful to see someone like Jobs persevere through the many challenges and trends offered by the rapidly changing computer sector.&nbsp;
Jobs, known for his passion for music, quoted The Beatles' reflective line: "You and I have memories longer than the road that stretches out ahead,&#8221; before adding, &#8220;And that&#8217;s clearly true here.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">When Steve Jobs was asked about his relationship with competitor and business rival, Bill Gates, he answered with a lyric from this reflective Beatles song: <a href="https://t.co/CovfClpMim">pic.twitter.com/CovfClpMim</a>
&mdash; The Beatles Earth (@BeatlesEarth) <a href="https://twitter.com/BeatlesEarth/status/1856357686956237143?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
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The lyric from The Beatles' "Two of Us" <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLQox8e9688">song</a> perfectly captured the sentiment. For all their competition, Jobs and Gates shared a deep mutual respect. The song is about friendship, shared memories and a sense of journey – and that's exactly how Jobs saw his connection with Gates. After all, they'd both been through the ups and downs of building billion-dollar companies, watching trends come and go and surviving the intense pressures of leading groundbreaking tech firms.
It was a moment that showed the softer side of their relationship and that despite being rivals, Jobs and Gates weren't just competing tech CEOs – they were two individuals who'd shared a unique journey in an industry they helped to shape. Their antagonism had subsided into camaraderie based on mutual knowledge of what it required to get to where they were, shared experiences and the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41340693/bill-gates-saved-rival-apple-from-bankruptcy-by-investing-150-million-steve-jobs-thanked-him-pub">rare act of cooperation</a>.
See Also: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a>
Back in the late '70s and early '80s, Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) was working hard to get its personal computers into homes, schools and offices, aiming to make computers friendly, accessible and even stylish. Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), on the other hand, was all about software under Gates&#8217; direction. Gates aimed to install Microsoft&#8217;s operating system on as many machines as possible, including IBM, Apple&#8217;s main rival. And a long-standing rivalry was sparked by this action.&nbsp;
Microsoft's Windows operating system, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41872487/bill-gates-introduced-windows-41-years-ago-today-heres-how-much-youd-have-if-you-invested-1000-in-microsoft-when-it-went-public">introduced in 1983</a>, was strikingly similar to Apple's Mac OS and Jobs was not happy about it. He famously accused Gates of copying Apple&#8217;s interface, saying that Microsoft had no shame in borrowing ideas.
Ultimately, this brief Beatles reference from Jobs was a reminder of the humanity behind the industry giants. For those who grew up with either an Apple device or Microsoft software – most of us have used both – their partnership and rivalry have always felt like a part of our own experience with technology.
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Startups

When Asked About His Business Rivalry With Bill Gates, Steve Jobs Replied With A Beatles Lyric From This Reflective Song

To gain an edge, this is what you need to know today.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://thearorareport.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/2024-11-15_08h38_46.png" alt="" style="width:624px" /></figure>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Powell Speaks The Truth</h3>
Please <a href="https://thearorareport.com/chart-analysis-stock-powell-speech-trump-appointments-spy-mc-11152024">click here</a> for an enlarged chart of SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) which represents the benchmark stock market index S&amp;P 500 (SPX).
Note the following:
<ul>
<li>It is worth a reminder that The Arora Report is politically agnostic.&nbsp; Our sole job is to help our members extract the maximum amount of money out of the markets with the least possible risk.</li>
<li>The price action on the chart shows that the rip roaring Trump rally is taking a breather.</li>
<li>The chart shows that the stock market is still above the breakout line.</li>
<li>RSI on the chart shows that the stock market has pulled back, reflecting a loss of momentum. The stock market is still overbought.</li>
<li>The chart shows that the volume remains low.&nbsp; This indicates that institutional investors are not rushing to buy stocks.</li>
<li>Yesterday, Powell spoke that truth – the market did not like it.&nbsp; Powell said, "The economy is not sending any signals that we need to be in a hurry to lower rates."&nbsp; Powell elaborated, "The strength we are currently seeing in the economy gives us the ability to approach our decisions carefully."</li>
<li>Powell's remarks brought some selling into stocks and bonds.</li>
<li>This morning, in the early trade, selling continues.</li>
<li>The reason for some selling is that the prevailing wisdom on Wall Street has been that another rate cut in December was a sure thing.&nbsp; The Arora Report has been questioning Wall Street's wisdom and sharing with you that the data does not support another rate cut.</li>
<li>Some conservative commentators are upset believing that the reason Powell started rate cuts with a 50 bps cut was to help Kamala Harris get elected.&nbsp; Now that Trump has been elected, Powell is in no hurry to cut rates.</li>
<li>In The Arora Report analysis, even though the data does not support a rate cut in December, Powell is going to feel pressure from Trump and Republicans to cut rates.&nbsp; There is also a significant amount of data between now and the December Fed meeting.</li>
<li>In The Arora Report analysis, based on a 360 degree view, including the political pressure and the pressure from Wall Street to cut rates, the probability of a rate cut in December is now about 60%.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
<li>There is consternation about several Trump picks.&nbsp; Impacting the market most are Trump's picks of RKF Jr, Matt Gaetz, and Pete Hegseth.&nbsp; These picks are bringing selling in vaccine makers such as Moderna Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRNA#NASDAQ">MRNA</a>), BioNTech SE ADR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BNTX#NASDAQ">BNTX</a>), Novavax Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVAX#NASDAQ">NVAX</a>), Merck &amp; Co Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), and Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>).&nbsp; There is also selling in other healthcare stocks, including weight loss drug companies Eli Lilly And Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>) and Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVO#NYSE">NVO</a>), and packaged food stocks such as The Kraft Heinz Co (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KHC#NASDAQ">KHC</a>).&nbsp; There is also selling in defense stocks such as Boeing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>), Lockheed Martin Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>), Northrop Grumman Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>), and Rtx Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>).&nbsp; There is also selling in big tech stocks.</li>
<li>The latest economic data is strong.&nbsp; The U.S. economy is about 70% consumer based.&nbsp; For this reason, prudent investors pay attention to retail sales.&nbsp; Here are the details of the just released data:
<ul>
<li>Retail sales came at 0.4% vs. 0.3% consensus.</li>
<li>Retail sales ex-auto came at 0.1% vs. 0.2% consensus.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>There are hundreds of indicators.&nbsp; At The Arora Report, the system has been refined through decades of research to share with you only those indicators that matter.&nbsp; Normally, we do not mention the NY Fed Empire State Manufacturing Index.&nbsp; Today, we are mentioning it due to its exceptional strength.&nbsp; The index came at 31.2 vs. 3.3 consensus.&nbsp; This indicates that manufacturing in the New York area has picked up steam. &nbsp; If similar strength is happening in the rest of the country, that would argue against further cutting interest rates. The problem for investors is that stock valuations are so high that to sustain them, rate cuts are needed.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Magnificent Seven Money Flows</h3>
In the early trade, money flows are positive in Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are negative in Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), Alphabet Inc Class C (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>), Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), and NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>).
In the early trade, money flows are negative in S&amp;P 500 ETF (SPY) and Invesco QQQ Trust Series 1 (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Momo Crowd And Smart Money In Stocks</h3>
Investors can gain an edge by knowing money flows in SPY and QQQ.  Investors can get a bigger edge by knowing when smart money is buying stocks, gold, and oil.  The most popular ETF for gold is SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>).  The most popular ETF for silver is iShares Silver Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SLV#NYSE">SLV</a>).  The most popular ETF for oil is United States Oil ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>).
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Bitcoin</h3>
Even the slightest dips in Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) are being bought.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Protection Band And What To Do Now</h3>
It is important for investors to look ahead and not in the rearview mirror.&nbsp; The proprietary protection band from The Arora Report is very popular.&nbsp; The protection band puts all of the data, all of the indicators, all of the news, all of the crosscurrents, all of the models, and all of the analysis in an analytical framework that is easily actionable by investors.
Consider continuing to hold good, very long term, existing positions. Based on individual risk preference, consider a protection band consisting of cash or Treasury bills or short-term tactical trades as well as short to medium term hedges and short term hedges. This is a good way to protect yourself and participate in the upside at the same time.
You can determine your protection bands by adding cash to hedges.&nbsp; The high band of the protection is appropriate for those who are older or conservative. The low band of the protection is appropriate for those who are younger or aggressive.&nbsp; If you do not hedge, the total cash level should be more than stated above but significantly less than cash plus hedges.
A protection band of 0% would be very bullish and would indicate full investment with 0% in cash.&nbsp; A protection band of 100% would be very bearish and would indicate a need for aggressive protection with cash and hedges or aggressive short selling.
It is worth reminding that you cannot take advantage of new upcoming opportunities if you are not holding enough cash.&nbsp; When adjusting hedge levels, consider adjusting partial stop quantities for stock positions (non ETF); consider using wider stops on remaining quantities and also allowing more room for high beta stocks.&nbsp; High beta stocks are the ones that move more than the market.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Traditional 60/40 Portfolio</h3>
Probability based risk reward adjusted for inflation does not favor long duration strategic bond allocation at this time.
Those who want to stick to traditional 60% allocation to stocks and 40% to bonds may consider focusing on only high quality bonds and bonds of five year duration or less.&nbsp; Those willing to bring sophistication to their investing may consider using bond ETFs as tactical positions and not strategic positions at this time.
The Arora Report is known for its accurate calls. The Arora Report correctly called the big artificial intelligence rally before anyone else, the new bull market of 2023, the bear market of 2022, new stock market highs right after the virus low in 2020, the virus drop in 2020, the DJIA rally to 30,000 when it was trading at 16,000, the start of a mega bull market in 2009, and the financial crash of 2008. Please click here to sign up for a free forever <a href="https://thearorareport.com/generate-wealth-newsletter-benzinga">Generate Wealth Newsletter</a>.

Market Summary

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Federal Reserve

Markets

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MRNA

NVAX

TSLA

Powell Speaks The Truth - Market Does Not Like It, Consternation About Kennedy, Gaetz, And Hegseth

Ulta Beauty, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>) stock is moving lower Friday after Warren Buffet&#8216;s Berkshire Hathaway <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/41993666/warren-buffetts-berkshire-hathaway-slashes-apple-bofa-holdings-adds-dominos-pizza-in-q3">cut its position in the company. </a>
What To Know: Buffet&#8217;s Berkshire Hathaway cut nearly all of its position in the beauty brand, according to Berkshire&#8217;s latest 13F filing.
Berkshire initially reported holding 690,106 shares in Ulta in an August filing. The latest 13F filing, released Thursday, shows its position has been reduced to 24,203 shares, a 96% cut.
The filing also indicates new positions in Domino&#8217;s Pizza Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DPZ#NYSE">DPZ</a>) and Pool Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/POOL#NASDAQ">POOL</a>). Berkshire acquired 1,277,256 shares of Domino&#8217;s, valued at approximately $549 million, and 404,057 shares of Pool Corp, worth about $152 million.
Furthermore, the filing shows that Berkshire continued to reduce its stake in Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>). The August filing represents the company&#8217;s holdings as of June 30, while Thursday&#8217;s filing reports Berkshire&#8217;s holdings as of Sept. 30.
How To Buy Ulta Stock
Besides going to a brokerage platform to purchase a share &#8211; or fractional share &#8211; of stock, you can also gain access to shares either by buying an exchange traded fund (ETF) that holds the stock itself, or by allocating yourself to a strategy in your 401(k) that would seek to acquire shares in a mutual fund or other instrument. 
For example, in Ulta Beauty's case, it is in the Consumer Discretionary sector. An ETF will likely hold shares in many liquid and large companies that help track that sector, allowing an investor to gain exposure to the trends within that segment.
Related Link: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41988194/trump-plans-to-erase-ev-tax-credit-analyst-says-its-net-bullish-calls-sell-off-wrong-knee-jerk-reaction">Trump Plans To Erase EV Tax Credit: Tesla Analyst Says It&#8217;s &#8216;Net Bullish,&#8217; Calls Sell-Off &#8216;Wrong Knee-Jerk Reaction&#8217;</a>
ULTA Price Action: At the time of writing, Ulta stock is moving 2.39% lower at $373.24, Domino&#8217;s shares are moving 2.07% higher at $444.98, Pool stock is moving 2.52% higher at $366.51, Bank of America shares are trading 0.86% higher at $46.29, and Apple stock is moving 1.45% lower at $244.88 per data from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Image: Photo via Wikimedia Commons

Movers

POOL

ULTA

What's Going On With Ulta Beauty Shares Friday?

Amidst today's fast-paced and highly competitive business environment, it is crucial for investors and industry enthusiasts to conduct comprehensive company evaluations. In this article, we will delve into an extensive industry comparison, evaluating Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) in comparison to its major competitors within the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry. By analyzing critical financial metrics, market position, and growth potential, our objective is to provide valuable insights for investors and offer a deeper understanding of company's performance in the industry.
<h3>Apple Background</h3>
Apple is among the largest companies in the world, with a broad portfolio of hardware and software products targeted at consumers and businesses. Apple's iPhone makes up a majority of the firm sales, and Apple's other products like Mac, iPad, and Watch are designed around the iPhone as the focal point of an expansive software ecosystem. Apple has progressively worked to add new applications, like streaming video, subscription bundles, and augmented reality. The firm designs its own software and semiconductors while working with subcontractors like Foxconn and TSMC to build its products and chips. Slightly less than half of Apple's sales come directly through its flagship stores, with a majority of sales coming indirectly through partnerships and distribution.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>P/E</th>
<th>P/B</th>
<th>P/S</th>
<th>ROE</th>
<th>EBITDA (in billions)</th>
<th>Gross Profit (in billions)</th>
<th>Revenue Growth</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Apple Inc</td>
<td>37.54</td>
<td>60.57</td>
<td>8.99</td>
<td>23.83%</td>
<td>$32.5</td>
<td>$43.88</td>
<td>6.07%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co</td>
<td>15.13</td>
<td>1.26</td>
<td>0.97</td>
<td>2.34%</td>
<td>$1.23</td>
<td>$2.44</td>
<td>10.11%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NetApp Inc</td>
<td>23.11</td>
<td>26.03</td>
<td>3.93</td>
<td>23.9%</td>
<td>$0.38</td>
<td>$1.1</td>
<td>7.61%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Western Digital Corp</td>
<td>69.47</td>
<td>1.88</td>
<td>1.47</td>
<td>4.28%</td>
<td>$0.86</td>
<td>$1.55</td>
<td>48.91%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pure Storage Inc</td>
<td>115.36</td>
<td>11.24</td>
<td>5.79</td>
<td>2.52%</td>
<td>$0.08</td>
<td>$0.54</td>
<td>10.91%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Super Micro Computer Inc</td>
<td>8.96</td>
<td>1.93</td>
<td>0.73</td>
<td>6.68%</td>
<td>$0.4</td>
<td>$0.6</td>
<td>37.87%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eastman Kodak Co</td>
<td>8.14</td>
<td>0.38</td>
<td>0.39</td>
<td>2.09%</td>
<td>$0.05</td>
<td>$0.06</td>
<td>-9.49%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turtle Beach Corp</td>
<td>49.23</td>
<td>3.01</td>
<td>0.91</td>
<td>3.3%</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>$0.03</td>
<td>59.51%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Immersion Corp</td>
<td>4.76</td>
<td>1.20</td>
<td>1.69</td>
<td>13.41%</td>
<td>$0.03</td>
<td>$0.06</td>
<td>1323.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AstroNova Inc</td>
<td>16.95</td>
<td>1.17</td>
<td>0.72</td>
<td>-0.34%</td>
<td>$0.0</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>14.12%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Average</td>
<td>34.57</td>
<td>5.34</td>
<td>1.84</td>
<td>6.46%</td>
<td>$0.34</td>
<td>$0.71</td>
<td>167.04%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<style>
 table {
 width: 100%;
 border-collapse: collapse;
 font-family: Arial, sans-serif;
 font-size: 14px;
 }

 th, td {
 padding: 8px;
 text-align: left;
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 text-align: left;
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 background-color: #f2f4f8;
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 .dividend-frequency {
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 </style>By analyzing Apple, we can infer the following trends: 
<ul>
<li>
Notably, the current Price to Earnings ratio for this stock, 37.54, is 1.09x above the industry norm, reflecting a higher valuation relative to the industry.
</li>
<li>
With a Price to Book ratio of 60.57, which is 11.34x the industry average, Apple might be considered overvalued in terms of its book value, as it is trading at a higher multiple compared to its industry peers.
</li>
<li>
With a relatively high Price to Sales ratio of 8.99, which is 4.89x the industry average, the stock might be considered overvalued based on sales performance.
</li>
<li>
The company has a higher Return on Equity (ROE) of 23.83%, which is 17.37% above the industry average. This suggests efficient use of equity to generate profits and demonstrates profitability and growth potential.
</li>
<li>
With higher Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of $32.5 Billion, which is 95.59x above the industry average, the company demonstrates stronger profitability and robust cash flow generation.
</li>
<li>
With higher gross profit of $43.88 Billion, which indicates 61.8x above the industry average, the company demonstrates stronger profitability and higher earnings from its core operations.
</li>
<li>
The company is witnessing a substantial decline in revenue growth, with a rate of 6.07% compared to the industry average of 167.04%, which indicates a challenging sales environment.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Debt To Equity Ratio</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1731682846_0.png" alt="debt to equity" />
The debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio helps evaluate the capital structure and financial leverage of a company.
Considering the debt-to-equity ratio in industry comparisons allows for a concise evaluation of a company's financial health and risk profile, aiding in informed decision-making.
In light of the Debt-to-Equity ratio, a comparison between Apple and its top 4 peers reveals the following information:
<ul>
<li>
In the context of the debt-to-equity ratio, Apple holds a middle position among its top 4 peers.
</li>
<li>
This indicates a moderate level of debt relative to its equity with a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.87, which implies a relatively balanced financial structure with a reasonable debt-equity mix.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Takeaways</h3>
For Apple, the PE, PB, and PS ratios are all high compared to its peers in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry, indicating that the stock may be overvalued based on these metrics. On the other hand, Apple's high ROE, EBITDA, gross profit, and low revenue growth suggest that the company is efficiently utilizing its resources and generating strong profits, despite slower revenue growth compared to industry peers.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Exploring The Competitive Space: Apple Versus Industry Peers In Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) shares closed higher on Thursday despite an overall decline <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41964915/apple-faces-legal-action-over-rip-off-icloud-charges-could-pay-out-38b-to-uk-customers">in the stock market</a>.
Consumer group Which? has filed a £3 billion ($3.81 billion) legal claim against Apple, accusing the tech giant of breaching UK competition law through its iCloud service.
Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) reduced stake in Apple from 400 million to 300 million shares. Thus, Berkshire has now cut its position in the Cupertino, California-based tech giant by over two-thirds since <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/41993666/warren-buffetts-berkshire-hathaway-slashes-apple-bofa-holdings-adds-dominos-pizza-in-q3">2023's third quarter.</a>
With the recent buzz around Apple, some investors may be eyeing potential gains from the company's dividends too. As of now, Apple offers an annual dividend yield of 0.44%, which is a quarterly dividend amount of 25 cents per share ($1.00 a year).
So, how can investors exploit its dividend yield to pocket a regular $500 monthly?
To earn $500 per month or $6,000 annually from dividends alone, you would need an investment of approximately $1,369,320 or around 6,000 shares. For a more modest $100 per month or $1,200 per year, you would need $273,864 or around 1,200 shares.
To calculate: Divide the desired annual income ($6,000 or $1,200) by the dividend ($1.00 in this case). So, $6,000 / $1.00 = 6,000 ($500 per month), and $1,200 / $1.00 = 1,200 shares ($100 per month).
Note that dividend yield can change on a rolling basis, as the dividend payment and the stock price both fluctuate over time.
How that works: The dividend yield is computed by dividing the annual dividend payment by the stock&#8217;s current price.
For example, if a stock pays an annual dividend of $2 and is currently priced at $50, the dividend yield would be 4% ($2/$50). However, if the stock price increases to $60, the dividend yield drops to 3.33% ($2/$60). Conversely, if the stock price falls to $40, the dividend yield rises to 5% ($2/$40).
Similarly, changes in the dividend payment can impact the yield. If a company increases its dividend, the yield will also increase, provided the stock price stays the same. Conversely, if the dividend payment decreases, so will the yield.
AAPL Price Action: Shares of Apple gained 1.4% to close at $228.22 on Thursday.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="How to Find Dividend Stocks: Scan, Analyze, and Capture with Benzinga Pro" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pVF0O2lsEH4?start=1&#038;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>
</div>
</figure>
Read More:
<ul>
<li> <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/11/41971544/jim-cramer-recommends-microsoft-praises-american-water-works-for-being-consistent">Jim Cramer Recommends Microsoft, Praises American Water Works For Being &#8216;Consistent&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Long Ideas

How To Earn $500 A Month From Apple Stock

Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Apple Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) key suppliers — Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HNHPF#OTC">HNHPF</a>), popularly known as Foxconn, Pegatron Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PGTRF#OTC">PGTRF</a>), and Quanta Computer (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QUCCF#OTC">QUCCF</a>) — plan to quickly increase U.S. investments <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/11/41869001/heres-how-trumps-policies-might-shape-the-markets-future">should trade policies shift</a> under Donald Trump&#8217;s second term.
What Happened: Foxconn chairman Young Liu announced on Thursday that the company is ready to expand its U.S. operations. The company is a leading contract electronics manufacturer and has substantial production bases in Texas, Wisconsin, and Ohio.
&#8220;We can very quickly adjust&nbsp;our investment if necessary,&#8221; Liu said at an investor&#8217;s conference, <a href="https://asia.nikkei.com/Spotlight/Supply-Chain/Nvidia-and-Apple-suppliers-ready-to-boost-U.S.-investments-under-Trump">reported</a> Nikkei Asia.
Pegatron, a key supplier to Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), and Apple, is also prepared to respond swiftly to any policy changes.
&#8220;If necessary, we can quickly convert [our repair facility in Indiana] into production lines to accommodate policy changes [such as tariffs],&#8221; co-CEO Johnson Deng told investors, according to the report.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41927379/elon-musk-says-the-prophecy-has-been-fulfilled-peanut-the-squirrel-themed-meme-coin-spikes-11?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Says The &#8216;Prophecy Has Been Fulfilled&#8217; — Peanut The Squirrel-Themed Meme Coin Spikes 11%</a>
Quanta Computer&#8217;s cloud-computing subsidiary, QCT, is ready to expand its manufacturing capacity in California if needed, said the company&#8217;s president, Mike Yang.
&#8220;We have continued to expand our capacity there in the past two years and have space to further expand anytime if needed. We also have a footprint in Thailand as well.&#8221;
Why It Matters: During his campaign, Trump underscored his &#8220;America First&#8221; agenda and warned of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41953220/dollar-powers-to-4-month-highs-against-yen-trump-tariff-expectations-spark-carry-trade-frenzy">potential tariffs on various countries</a>, creating uncertainty for the tech supply chain.
Despite these political uncertainties, Foxconn and other leading tech suppliers continue to view artificial intelligence as the key growth driver for the industry through 2025, the report noted.
The stock market and cryptocurrency sector have seen <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/11/41912771/trump-presidency-magnificent-7-stock-impact-benzinga-readers-pick-tech-titan-at-most-risk-following-2024-election">significant growth since Trump&#8217;s victory</a>, with major U.S. stock indexes hitting record highs since Trump&#8217;s win against Vice President Kamala Harris.
Earlier this week, Yang Chin-long, the governor of Taiwan's central bank, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41972365/tsmcs-65b-investment-in-us-will-help-avoid-trade-imbalance-says-taiwan-central-bank-governor-as-trump-returns-to-white-house">voiced optimism about</a> Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.'s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) upcoming $65 billion investment in U.S. factories.
&#8220;Chips and information and telecommunications products are what the U.S. needs most. I don't think the United States would penalize Taiwan,&#8221; he said during a legislative session on Thursday.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41931993/dogecoin-tumbles-despite-elon-musk-vivek-ramaswamys-doge-appointment-this-is-what-indicators-tell-about-its-next-moves?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dogecoin Tumbles Despite Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy&#8217;s &#8216;DOGE&#8217; Appointment: This Is What Indicators Tell About Its Next Moves</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

Nvidia, Apple Suppliers Brace For Trump's Return: Foxconn, Pegatron, Quanta Prepare For Rapid US Investment Boom

Editor&#8217;s Note: The article was changed to reflect Renaissance Technologies, not Jim Simons, who passed away in May 2024.
In its third-quarter update, Renaissance Technologies, founded by the late <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/jim-simons">famed "Quant King</a>&#8221; Jim Simons, showcased some notable pivots within its $66.5 billion portfolio.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Microsoft Stake, Trims Other Tech Names</h1>
Renaissance Technologies increased its stake in Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), betting on the tech giant's expansion in cloud and AI sectors, Renaissance revealed in a <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1037389/000103738924000091/xslForm13F_X02/primary_doc.xml">Wednesday SEC filing</a>.
At the same time, the company pared back investments in high-growth stocks such as Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>). Nvidia's AI boom and Tesla's market lead in EVs didn't deter the company from reducing exposure, perhaps as a hedge against market corrections.
Broadcom Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) was also scaled back, suggesting Renaissance might be positioning itself more defensively as tech valuations reach historic highs.
Renaissance's move to fortify positions in well-established tech names could signal a more cautious stance on speculative growth.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Palantir Takes The Lead In Renaissance's Portfolio</h1>
Among all the holdings, Palantir Technologies Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) now stands as Renaissance's largest position, making up 2.15% of the portfolio. Known for its deep government contracts and burgeoning AI applications, Palantir's data-centric profile aligns well with Renaissance&#8217;s quant-driven approach.
This shift highlights a strategic tilt toward resilient, data-focused tech plays, reflecting the company&#8217;s long-term confidence in the power of predictive analytics and secure data solutions.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/11/41972288/can-palantir-sustain-its-300x-valuation-after-climbing-266-this-year">Can Palantir Sustain Its 300X Valuation After Climbing 266% This Year?</a>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Top Buys: Microsoft, Apple, Cisco</h1>
Alongside Microsoft, Renaissance added significantly to Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and Cisco Systems Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>). This trio signals a preference for big-cap stability in a year marked by market volatility.
While Microsoft's AI and cloud growth makes it a solid pick, Apple and Cisco bring diverse revenue streams, from consumer tech to networking infrastructure, giving Renaissance a balanced tech exposure.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/11/41973572/ray-dalios-bridgewater-cuts-stake-in-microsoft-stock-by-20-is-big-tech-losing-its-shine">Ray Dalio&#8217;s Bridgewater Cuts Stake In Microsoft Stock By 20% – Is Big Tech Losing Its Shine?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Hedge Funds

AVGO

CSCO

PLTR

Renaissance Technologies Shifts Gears: Microsoft In, Tesla Out, Palantir On Top [CORRECTED]

Billionaire investor Warren Buffett cut several of Berkshire Hathaway Inc&#8216;s (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>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40232279/is-warren-buffett-bearish-or-waiting-to-pounce-berkshire-now-owns-more-t-bills-than-federal-rese">largest holdings this year</a>. 
The Omaha, Nebraska-based holding company&#8217;s latest 13F filing shows that the sell-off trend continues.
What Happened: Berkshire&#8217;s latest 13F filing, filed on Thursday, reflects the company&#8217;s largest holdings as of September 30.
Buffett reduced his stake in Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) from 400 million to 300 million shares. Thus, Berkshire has now cut its position in the Cupertino, California-based tech giant by over two-thirds since 2023&#8217;s third quarter.
The Omaha &#8220;oracle&#8221; also continued to cut his stake in Bank of America Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), trimming back another 23% of Berkshire&#8217;s position.
Berkshire cut nearly all of its position in Ulta Beauty Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ULTA#NASDAQ">ULTA</a>). Buffett <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40385824/warren-buffett-still-holds-400m-apple-shares-reveals-new-investments-in-ulta-beauty-and-heico-el">revealed a position in the cosmetic store chain</a> in August; the company&#8217;s stock has performed roughly even since then. Buffett&#8217;s Ulta holding period was unusually short for the famed value investor.
Meanwhile, Buffett added a couple of fresh faces to Berkshire&#8217;s portfolio.
Buffett bought 1,277,256 shares of Ann Arbor, Michigan-based pizza chain Domino&#8217;s Pizza Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DPZ#NYSE">DPZ</a>). He also made a foray into pool equipment, buying 404,057 shares of Pool Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/POOL#NASDAQ">POOL</a>).
Price Action: Investors quickly reacted to Berkshire&#8217;s 13F filing after hours:
<ul>
<li>Dominoes Pizza shares traded up nearly 7%.</li>
<li>Pool Corp shares traded up nearly 6%.</li>
<li>Ulta Beauty shares fell over 4%.</li>
<li>Apple and Bank of America shed insignificant portions of their market value.</li>
</ul>
Why it Matters: During Berkshire&#8217;s annual shareholder meeting in May, Buffett hinted that his sell-offs were a result of tax implications. 
This <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40385824/warren-buffett-still-holds-400m-apple-shares-reveals-new-investments-in-ulta-beauty-and-heico-el">has not stopped</a> investors&#8217; conjecture that Buffett is perhaps bearish <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/11/41949068/bitcoin-could-reach-1-million-by-2037-economist-says-buy-of-a-lifetime-opportunity">on the market at large</a>.
Alternatively, Buffett could be simply trimming positions that take up an outsized portion of Berkshire&#8217;s portfolio to reduce exposure.
Also Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/11/41988194/trump-plans-to-erase-ev-tax-credit-analyst-says-its-net-bullish-calls-sell-off-wrong-knee-jerk-reaction">Trump Plans To Erase EV Tax Credit: Tesla Analyst Says It&#8217;s &#8216;Net Bullish,&#8217; Calls Sell-Off &#8216;Wrong Knee-Jerk Reaction&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Image via Flickr

Equities

Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Slashes Apple, BofA Holdings, Adds Domino's Pizza In Q3

Third Point 13F Shows Decreased Stake In PG&E Corp By 7% From 53,750,000 To 49,750,000 Shares; Amazon By 27% From 5,100,000 To 3,700,000 Shares; Danaher Corp By 5% From 2,050,000 To 1,950,000 Shares; Vistra Corp By 29% From 4,470,000 To 3,175,000 Shares; Microsoft By 45% From 1,580,000 To 870,000 Shares; Meta Platforms By 50% From 1,100,000  To 545,000 Shares; TSM By 12% From 2,025,000 To 1,780,000 Shares; Apple By 52% From 1,950,000 To 930,000 Shares; Amphenol Corp By 43% From 2,800,000 To 1,600,000 Shares

BRK/A

BRK/B

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Reduced Stake In Apple Inc By 25% To 300M Shares, Worth $69.9B

President-elect Donald Trump's proposal to establish a national Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) reserve has sparked a wave of support across the United States, with Pennsylvania leading the charge by considering its own <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41890600/anthony-scaramucci-optimistic-of-a-us-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-trumps-victory-accelerated-the-cycle">state-held cryptocurrency reserve</a>.
What Happened: This movement aligns with Trump&#8217;s promise to make the U.S. the "<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/40734266/trump-promised-to-turn-the-u-s-into-the-crypto-capital-of-the-world-but-did-he-actually-fo">crypto capital of the planet</a>" and has fueled legislative efforts to recognize Bitcoin as a secure state asset, FOX Business <a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/money/pennsylvania-house-introduces-bill-implement-strategic-bitcoin-reserve">reports</a>.
In Pennsylvania, lawmakers introduced the Pennsylvania Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Act, the first bill of its kind, which would authorize the state's treasury to invest up to 10% of its $7 billion reserves into Bitcoin to hedge against inflation and diversify from traditional assets like bonds and cash.
The bill is set to be a historic move toward recognizing digital assets in state portfolios.
&#8220;The Pennsylvania Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Act is a forward-thinking move to protect our financial future," said Republican state Rep. Mike Cabell, who sponsors the bill. "By integrating Bitcoin, we're safeguarding Pennsylvania against inflation's unrelenting impact while positioning ourselves as pioneers in financial resilience and innovation."
The push for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41938972/donald-trump-to-establish-a-national-bitcoin-reserve-a-30-chance-polymarket-traders-speculate">state-held Bitcoin reserves</a> follows a recent upswing in Bitcoin's value, with prices jumping 20% in the week following Trump's election victory.
Bitcoin recently reached an all-time high of over $93,000 per token, making it the seventh-largest global asset, trailing only behind gold and tech giants like Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Amazon (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and Google (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>).
This state legislation echoes growing momentum for pro-Bitcoin policies at the federal level.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/digital-assets/ "><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="300" height="250" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/29155259/905735A6-57D3-4874-9AA1-75D037842DB3-2.gif" alt="Benzinga Future of Digital Assets conference" class="wp-image-270548" /></a></figure>
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41976407/ben-horowitz-the-biden-regulators-lied-about-crypto">Ben Horowitz: &#8216;The Biden Regulators Lied About Crypto&#8217;</a>
U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis of Wyoming, a well-known cryptocurrency advocate, plans to introduce a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41784950/pro-bitcoin-senator-cynthia-lummis-vows-to-build-a-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-as-industry-e">national Bitcoin reserve bill</a> within the first 100 days of Trump's presidency.
Pennsylvania has also advanced the Bitcoin Rights bill, a proposal aimed at protecting residents' rights to self-custody and use Bitcoin for payments. 
The bipartisan support for this bill, which passed the Democrat-led House by a vote of 176-26, sets a positive precedent for the Pennsylvania Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Act.
Dennis Porter, founder of the Satoshi Action Fund (SAF), an advocacy group that helped develop both bills, sees Pennsylvania's efforts as a model for other states. 
Porter noted that SAF is already in discussions with ten other states about enacting similar legislation, saying, "With public interest in Bitcoin at an all-time high, we anticipate both bills will pass and, ideally, be signed into law next year."
If successful, Pennsylvania would become the first state to incorporate Bitcoin directly into its balance sheet, potentially setting a trend for other states to integrate digital assets into economic strategy. 
"This legislation sends a powerful message," Cabell emphasized. "Pennsylvania is ready to adopt modern financial solutions to secure prosperity for future generations."
The evolution of Pennsylvania's pro-Bitcoin stance highlights a significant trend in the adoption of cryptocurrency at the state level and may pave the way for digital assets to play an increasingly prominent role in U.S. economic policy.
As the policy debate intensifies, the cryptocurrency community, government officials, and investors will gather at Benzinga&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/digital-assets/agenda/">Future of Digital Assets</a> event on Nov. 19, to explore how these legislative shifts could shape the future of digital finance in America.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41973094/elon-musk-says-excess-government-spending-causes-inflation-as-donald-trump-fills-administration-with-cryptocurrency-advocates">Elon Musk Says Excess Government Spending &#8216;Causes Inflation&#8217; As Donald Trump Fills Administration With Cryptocurrency Advocates</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

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

Cryptocurrency

Pennsylvania Introduces Bitcoin Strategic Reserve Act To Invest Up To $700 Million In BTC

Legendary investor Ken Fisher's hedge fund, Fisher Asset Management, grew the value of its portfolio by more than $14 billion dollars <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/41030896/why-ken-fisher-says-capital-preservation-could-cost-you-big-in-retirement">in the last quarter</a>.
Here's a look at the fund's most significant trades.  
Top Holdings: Fisher Asset Management reported approximately $244 billion in assets under management (AUM), according to an SEC<a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/850529/000085052924000012/xslForm13F_X02/primary_doc.xml"> filing</a>. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/24/11/41949068/bitcoin-could-reach-1-million-by-2037-economist-says-buy-of-a-lifetime-opportunity">Bitcoin Could Reach $1 Million By 2037, Economist Says: &#8216;Buy Of A Lifetime&#8217; Opportunity</a>
The firm also added small amounts to each of its top five positions: 
<ul>
<li>Apple, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)</li>
<li>Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)</li>
<li>NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)</li>
<li>Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and </li>
<li>Alphabet, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>). </li>
</ul>
Top Buys: Fisher Asset Management's top buy in terms of value was $2.09 billion in shares of the iShares 7-10 Year Treasury Bond ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEF#NASDAQ">IEF</a>) which provides targeted exposure to U.S. Treasury bonds with remaining maturities between seven and ten years. Treasury bonds are generally considered low-risk investments, which can help balance riskier assets in a diversified portfolio. 
The fund's second and third-largest buys were $850 million in shares of JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) and $490 million worth of shares of oil and natural gas producer ConocoPhillips (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COP#NYSE">COP</a>). 
Top Sells: The hedge fund's top sells by value were $1.35 billion in shares of the iShares iBoxx $ Investment Grade Corporate Bond ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LQD#NYSE">LQD</a>), $750 million worth of Walt Disney Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>) shares and $710 million in shares of Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>). 
New Holdings: One of the fund's most notable new holdings is Nu Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NU#NYSE">NU</a>), a digital banking services provider also backed by Warren Buffett. Fisher Asset management opened a position in Nu Holdings with approximately 7.23 million shares valued at more than $98.7 million.&nbsp;
The hedge fund also took a $28.3 million new position in wealth manager UBS Group AG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBS#NYSE">UBS</a>) and opened a $17.2 million position in the iShares MSCI China A ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNYA#BATS">CNYA</a>), which tracks an index composed of Chinese equities available to international investors.
Why It Matters: Hedge funds often use sophisticated investment strategies and have access to extensive research which can provide insights into emerging market trends. Individual investors can track hedge funds for investment ideas, successful strategies or compare their own performance against professional investors.&nbsp;
Read Next:&nbsp;
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Image: Shutterstock

CNYA

iShares Trust Barclays 7-10 Year Treasury Bond Fund

Here's How Billionaire Ken Fisher's Hedge Fund Made $14 Billion Last Quarter

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Here's the list of options activity happening in today's session: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>NVDA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$149.00</td>
<td>$25.6K</td>
<td>37.8K</td>
<td>114.6K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AAPL</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$227.50</td>
<td>$56.3K</td>
<td>4.2K</td>
<td>9.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ENPH</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$62.00</td>
<td>$83.6K</td>
<td>891</td>
<td>2.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$8.00</td>
<td>$74.0K</td>
<td>4.3K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SMCI</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$64.00</td>
<td>$32.1K</td>
<td>2.9K</td>
<td>376</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AVGO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$170.00</td>
<td>$37.5K</td>
<td>5.7K</td>
<td>356</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TSM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>02/21/25</td>
<td>$190.00</td>
<td>$25.8K</td>
<td>1.2K</td>
<td>278</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CIFR</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$3.00</td>
<td>$72.1K</td>
<td>1.7K</td>
<td>230</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CSCO</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$53.00</td>
<td>$36.0K</td>
<td>221</td>
<td>215</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LRCX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$33.8K</td>
<td>861</td>
<td>192</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These itemized elaborations have been created using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding NVDA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 1 day(s) on November 15, 2024. Parties traded 400 contract(s) at a $149.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.6K, with a price of $64.0 per contract. There were 37833 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 114646 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding AAPL (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 1 day(s) on November 15, 2024. Parties traded 397 contract(s) at a $227.50 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $56.3K, with a price of $142.0 per contract. There were 4209 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 9333 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ENPH (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENPH#NASDAQ">ENPH</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 1 day(s) on November 15, 2024. This event was a transfer of 836 contract(s) at a $62.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 58 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $83.6K, with a price of $101.0 per contract. There were 891 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2269 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For IREN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IREN#NASDAQ">IREN</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 127 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $8.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 15 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $74.0K, with a price of $370.0 per contract. There were 4316 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1217 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding SMCI (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 36 day(s) on December 20, 2024. Parties traded 7 contract(s) at a $64.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $32.1K, with a price of $4597.0 per contract. There were 2961 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 376 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AVGO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 1 day(s) on November 15, 2024. This event was a transfer of 158 contract(s) at a $170.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 8 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $37.5K, with a price of $239.0 per contract. There were 5758 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 356 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding TSM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), we observe a call option trade with bearish sentiment. It expires in 99 day(s) on February 21, 2025. Parties traded 17 contract(s) at a $190.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $25.8K, with a price of $1518.0 per contract. There were 1276 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 278 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For CIFR (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CIFR#NASDAQ">CIFR</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 127 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 200 contract(s) at a $3.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 15 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $72.1K, with a price of $365.0 per contract. There were 1726 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 230 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For CSCO (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 1 day(s) on November 15, 2024. This event was a transfer of 70 contract(s) at a $53.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.0K, with a price of $515.0 per contract. There were 221 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 215 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For LRCX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LRCX#NASDAQ">LRCX</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 64 day(s) on January 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 72 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 6 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $33.8K, with a price of $469.0 per contract. There were 861 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 192 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

CIFR

ENPH

IREN

LRCX

SMCI

10 Information Technology Stocks Whale Activity In Today's Session

The European Commission has penalized a $841 million (797.72 million euros) fine to Meta Platforms Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) for <a target="_blank" href="https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_24_5801" rel="noreferrer noopener">violating EU antitrust laws</a>.
The penalty follows an investigation into Meta's conduct, which found that the company abused its dominant market position by linking its classified ads service, Facebook Marketplace, with its primary social media network, Facebook.
The practice forced users into automatic access to Facebook Marketplace, limiting competition by providing the service with an unfair advantage.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41973754/bilibilis-q3-earnings-revenue-surges-26-record-user-growth-margins-improve-as-games-lead-the-way" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bilibili's Q3 Earnings: Revenue Surges As Games Lead the Way, Stock Buyback And More</a>
The Commission also identified that Meta imposed unfair trading conditions on competing online classified ad providers, leveraging data from Facebook and Instagram ads to benefit its Marketplace service.
The Commission concluded that Meta's actions breached Article 102 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU), prohibiting the abuse of a dominant market position.
The fine was determined based on the duration and gravity of the violations and the revenue generated by Facebook Marketplace. Meta must cease these practices immediately and avoid similar conduct in the future.
The investigation into Meta's business practices began in June 2021, with formal proceedings initiated by the European Commission. In December 2022, the Commission issued a Statement of Objections, to which Meta responded in June 2023.
Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice President for Competition Policy, stated that Meta integrated Facebook Marketplace with its leading social media platform, Facebook, and set unfair trading conditions for rival online classified ad providers.
Vestager noted that these actions unfairly benefited Facebook Marketplace by giving it a significant advantage over competitors, which violates EU antitrust regulations. Meta is now required to halt these practices immediately.
Meta, in its response, said that they would <a target="_blank" href="https://about.fb.com/news/2024/11/our-response-to-the-european-commissions-decision-on-facebook-marketplace/" rel="noreferrer noopener">appeal the decision</a>. The company said they built the marketplace in response to consumer demand and that the European Commission's decision provides no evidence of competitive harm to rivals or any harm to consumers.&nbsp;
The U.S. Big Tech giants, including Meta Platforms, Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Google parent 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 Amazon.Com Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), faced scrutiny and penalties from global antitrust regulators for allegedly crushing smaller players by exploiting their undue influence.
In October, Intel Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) won an EU court ruling, intercepting a 1.06 billion euros fine in a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41522973/intel-triumphs-in-15-year-legal-battle-eu-court-rejects-record-antitrust-penalty" rel="noreferrer noopener">long-standing antitrust</a> case over chip market dominance.
In September, Google&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/09/40915828/google-wins-1-7b-eu-antitrust-fine-appeal-over-5-year-old-online-search-advertising-case" rel="noreferrer noopener">won its appeal</a> against the European Commission's 1.49 billion euros ($1.66 billion) antitrust fine for anticompetitive practices involving its online search advertising business.
Presidential elect Donald Trump <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41395202/tim-cook-called-to-complain-about-billions-in-eu-fines-imposed-on-apple-says-trump-im-not-going-to-l" rel="noreferrer noopener">discussed antitrust fines</a> imposed on U.S. tech giants during his campaigns. He mentioned a conversation with Apple CEO Tim Cook, where Cook highlighted the financial impact of recent EU penalties on Apple.
According to Trump, Cook expressed concern over EU fines totaling $17 billion, including a $15 billion back tax payment and an additional $2 billion antitrust fine.
Trump assured Cook that if elected, he would not allow foreign regulators to exploit American companies, signaling his intent to oppose EU actions targeting U.S. tech firms.
Price Action: META stock is down 0.74% at $575.70 at the last check on Thursday.
Also Read:
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</ul>
Photo by RomanR for shutterstock

Eurozone

INTC

Meta Hit With $841 Million EU Fine Over Antitrust Violations Tied To Facebook Marketplace

<a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/11/14/24296295/google-gemini-app-iphone-ios-ai" title="https://www.theverge.com/2024/11/14/24296295/google-gemini-app-iphone-ios-ai">https://www.theverge.com/2024/11/14/24296295/google-gemini-app-iphone-ios-ai</a>

'Google's Gemini AI Now Has Its Own iPhone App; Gemini Live Is Also Here To Chat With All You iOS Users' - The Verge

ASML Holding NV (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASML#NASDAQ">ASML</a>) shared its strategic roadmap during the 2024 Investor Day, highlighting key growth drivers and market expectations through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/11/g41962514/asml-provides-updated-view-on-market-opportunities-at-2024-investor-day-meeting" rel="noreferrer noopener">the decade&#8217;s end</a>.
The semiconductor equipment maker projected significant revenue expansion, with scenarios estimating annual sales of $46.51 billion &#8211; $63.43 billion (44 billion euros &#8211; 60 billion euros) by 2030, alongside a gross margin target of 56%-60%.
CEO Christophe Fouquet sees the company&#8217;s extended lithography portfolio and scalable EUV (Extreme Ultraviolet) technology as crucial assets in capturing the potential of these emerging opportunities.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/emerging-markets/24/11/41951575/taiwan-semi-boosts-advanced-chipmaking-with-record-euv-expansion-grabs-56-global-share" rel="noreferrer noopener">Taiwan Semi Boosts Advanced Chipmaking with Record EUV Expansion, Grabs 56% Global Share</a>
ASML expects robust demand from the semiconductor sector, with projected global sales surpassing $1 trillion by 2030.
This outlook translates to an annual market growth rate of around 9% from 2025 to 2030. The firm anticipates a double-digit CAGR for EUV lithography spending within the same period, focusing on advanced Logic and DRAM nodes.
According to ASML, the integration of AI across industries presents a substantial opportunity for semiconductor firms. The company plans to leverage its EUV capabilities to accommodate the rising need for high-performance chips used in AI applications.
The scalability of EUV technology allows for efficient multi-patterning, which ASML expects will drive greater customer adoption through cost-effective manufacturing processes.
ASML&#8217;s CFO, Roger Dassen, highlighted the company&#8217;s confidence in its financial targets, citing a strong pipeline of product demand and increasing lithography spending.
He restated the company&#8217;s capital allocation strategy, which includes substantial returns to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks.
The company is navigating geopolitical tensions between Washington and China as a U.S. ally.
ASML CEO Christophe Fouquet acknowledges <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/11/41876507/asmls-it-outage-affected-chipmaking-operations-worldwide" rel="noreferrer noopener">rising U.S. pressure</a> to restrict chip technology sales to China. Despite this, China remains ASML&#8217;s top market, primarily for sales of mature chips rather than the advanced AI semiconductors targeted by U.S. export restrictions.
ASML dominates the market for specialized lithography machines, essential for companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) in producing cutting-edge chips used in Apple Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) smartphones and Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) AI processors.
Reports suggest that Taiwan Semiconductor plans to purchase advanced ASML lithography equipment by the end of the year, with each unit priced at $350 million.
Price Actions:&nbsp;ASML stock traded higher by 5.09% at $707.67 at the last check on Thursday.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/41977961/mastercards-vision-no-more-passwords-or-card-numbers-by-2030" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mastercard&#8217;s 2030 Vision: A Future Without Passwords, Card Numbers</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via ASML

ASML

ASML Projects Revenue Surge to $63 Billion by 2030, Eyes AI and Chip Market Boom

In the dynamic and cutthroat world of business, conducting thorough company analysis is essential for investors and industry experts. In this article, we will undertake a comprehensive industry comparison, evaluating Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) and its primary competitors in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry. By closely examining key financial metrics, market position, and growth prospects, our aim is to provide valuable insights for investors and shed light on company's performance within the industry.
<h3>Apple Background</h3>
Apple is among the largest companies in the world, with a broad portfolio of hardware and software products targeted at consumers and businesses. Apple's iPhone makes up a majority of the firm sales, and Apple's other products like Mac, iPad, and Watch are designed around the iPhone as the focal point of an expansive software ecosystem. Apple has progressively worked to add new applications, like streaming video, subscription bundles, and augmented reality. The firm designs its own software and semiconductors while working with subcontractors like Foxconn and TSMC to build its products and chips. Slightly less than half of Apple's sales come directly through its flagship stores, with a majority of sales coming indirectly through partnerships and distribution.
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Company</th>
<th>P/E</th>
<th>P/B</th>
<th>P/S</th>
<th>ROE</th>
<th>EBITDA (in billions)</th>
<th>Gross Profit (in billions)</th>
<th>Revenue Growth</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Apple Inc</td>
<td>37.03</td>
<td>59.75</td>
<td>8.87</td>
<td>23.83%</td>
<td>$32.5</td>
<td>$43.88</td>
<td>6.07%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co</td>
<td>15.50</td>
<td>1.29</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>2.34%</td>
<td>$1.23</td>
<td>$2.44</td>
<td>10.11%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NetApp Inc</td>
<td>23.42</td>
<td>26.38</td>
<td>3.98</td>
<td>23.9%</td>
<td>$0.38</td>
<td>$1.1</td>
<td>7.61%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Western Digital Corp</td>
<td>68.95</td>
<td>1.86</td>
<td>1.46</td>
<td>4.28%</td>
<td>$0.86</td>
<td>$1.55</td>
<td>48.91%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pure Storage Inc</td>
<td>115.45</td>
<td>11.25</td>
<td>5.79</td>
<td>2.52%</td>
<td>$0.08</td>
<td>$0.54</td>
<td>10.91%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Super Micro Computer Inc</td>
<td>10.12</td>
<td>2.18</td>
<td>0.82</td>
<td>6.68%</td>
<td>$0.4</td>
<td>$0.6</td>
<td>37.87%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eastman Kodak Co</td>
<td>8.20</td>
<td>0.38</td>
<td>0.39</td>
<td>2.09%</td>
<td>$0.05</td>
<td>$0.06</td>
<td>-9.49%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Turtle Beach Corp</td>
<td>50.10</td>
<td>3.06</td>
<td>0.92</td>
<td>-6.53%</td>
<td>$0.0</td>
<td>$0.02</td>
<td>59.39%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Immersion Corp</td>
<td>4.72</td>
<td>1.19</td>
<td>1.68</td>
<td>13.41%</td>
<td>$0.03</td>
<td>$0.06</td>
<td>1323.8%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AstroNova Inc</td>
<td>16.96</td>
<td>1.17</td>
<td>0.72</td>
<td>-0.34%</td>
<td>$0.0</td>
<td>$0.01</td>
<td>14.12%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Average</td>
<td>34.82</td>
<td>5.42</td>
<td>1.86</td>
<td>5.37%</td>
<td>$0.34</td>
<td>$0.71</td>
<td>167.03%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<style>
 table {
 width: 100%;
 border-collapse: collapse;
 font-family: Arial, sans-serif;
 font-size: 14px;
 }

 th, td {
 padding: 8px;
 text-align: left;
 }

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 background-color: #293a5a;
 color: #fff;
 text-align: left;
 }

 tr:nth-child(even) {
 background-color: #f2f4f8;
 }

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 background-color: #e1e4ea;
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 }
 </style>Upon a comprehensive analysis of Apple, the following trends can be discerned: 
<ul>
<li>
The Price to Earnings ratio of 37.03 for this company is 1.06x above the industry average, indicating a premium valuation associated with the stock.
</li>
<li>
With a Price to Book ratio of 59.75, which is 11.02x the industry average, Apple might be considered overvalued in terms of its book value, as it is trading at a higher multiple compared to its industry peers.
</li>
<li>
With a relatively high Price to Sales ratio of 8.87, which is 4.77x the industry average, the stock might be considered overvalued based on sales performance.
</li>
<li>
With a Return on Equity (ROE) of 23.83% that is 18.46% above the industry average, it appears that the company exhibits efficient use of equity to generate profits.
</li>
<li>
The company has higher Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA) of $32.5 Billion, which is 95.59x above the industry average, indicating stronger profitability and robust cash flow generation.
</li>
<li>
The company has higher gross profit of $43.88 Billion, which indicates 61.8x above the industry average, indicating stronger profitability and higher earnings from its core operations.
</li>
<li>
The company's revenue growth of 6.07% is significantly lower compared to the industry average of 167.03%. This indicates a potential fall in the company's sales performance.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Debt To Equity Ratio</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1731596427_0.png" alt="debt to equity" />
The debt-to-equity (D/E) ratio helps evaluate the capital structure and financial leverage of a company.
Considering the debt-to-equity ratio in industry comparisons allows for a concise evaluation of a company's financial health and risk profile, aiding in informed decision-making.
When examining Apple in comparison to its top 4 peers with respect to the Debt-to-Equity ratio, the following information becomes apparent:
<ul>
<li>
Apple falls in the middle of the list when considering the debt-to-equity ratio.
</li>
<li>
This indicates that the company has a moderate level of debt relative to its equity with a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.87, suggesting a balanced financial structure with a reasonable debt-equitymix.
</li>
</ul>
<h3>Key Takeaways</h3>
For Apple, the PE, PB, and PS ratios are all high compared to its peers in the Technology Hardware, Storage &amp; Peripherals industry, indicating that the stock may be overvalued based on these metrics. On the other hand, Apple's high ROE, EBITDA, gross profit, and low revenue growth suggest that the company is efficiently utilizing its resources and generating strong profits, despite slower revenue growth compared to industry peers.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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