El interés en corto de PowerFleet da a los inversores una idea del grado en que los inversores apuestan por la caída de las acciones de PowerFleet. Los datos de interés en corto se actualizan cada dos semanas.

PowerFleet (NASDAQ:AIOT) Bolsa, Informe de interés en corto

POWERFLEET INC

PowerFleet

PowerFleet Inc is engaged in Internet-of-Things (IoT) solutions providing valuable business intelligence for managing high-value enterprise assets that improve operational efficiencies. It provide critical information that powers unified operations throughout organizations. It is solving the challenge of inefficient data collection, real-time visibility, and analysis that leads to transformative business operations. Its SaaS cloud-based applications take data from IoT devices and ecosystem of third-party and partner applications to present actionable information for customer.

Stock,Market,Graph,Going,Down

Pre-Market Outlook

AIOT

APPS

Aquí tienes cinco acciones estadounidenses que podrían llamar la atención de los inversores este lunes: RNW, LEN, JCI, AIOT y APPS.

5 acciones en el foco este lunes: RNW, LEN, JCI, AIOT y APPS

PowerFleet Inc

Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) has reportedly invested a staggering $250 million to secure the talents of 24-year-old AI prodigy, Matt Deitke.
What Happened: Deitke, a former doctoral student at the University of Washington, initially turned down Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg&#8216;s offer of around $125 million over four years. 
However, following a meeting with Zuckerberg, Deitke accepted a revised offer of approximately $250 million, with the potential to earn $100 million in the first year alone.
As per the report <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/08/01/business/meta-pays-250m-to-lure-24-year-old-ai-whiz-kid-we-have-reached-the-climax-of-revenge-of-the-nerds/">by </a>New York Post, this high-profile recruitment underscores Meta&#8217;s aggressive strategy in acquiring AI talent. The company has reportedly spent over $1 billion to assemble a team of industry heavyweights, including former Apple AI models team leader, Ruoming Pang. 
Meta&#8217;s capital expenditures are projected to surge to $72 billion in 2025, marking a $30 billion increase from the previous year.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46382291/mark-zuckerberg-poaches-sam-altmans-talent-with-multimillion-dollar-offers-to-build-metas-ai-team">Mark Zuckerberg Poaches Sam Altman&#8217;s Talent With Multimillion-Dollar Offers To Build Meta&#8217;s AI Team</a>
Deitke has gained recognition in the AI research community through his work at Seattle&#8217;s Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence and his co-founded startup, Vercept. His research on multimodal systems aligns with Meta&#8217;s strategic interests.
Why It Matters: While Meta&#8217;s recruitment of top-tier AI talent could fuel innovation, it has also sparked concerns about increasing economic inequality and the concentration of power in AI development. Critics have lambasted companies like Meta for awarding huge sums to a select few elite researchers while simultaneously laying off thousands of workers.
As Meta continues to invest heavily in AI, the implications of this strategy on the broader tech industry and society at large remain to be seen. 
The recruitment of Deitke and other top AI talents is a clear indication of Meta&#8217;s commitment to AI, but whether this will translate into sustainable success or exacerbate existing inequalities is a question that will unfold in time.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46157544/meta-exec-dismisses-openais-sam-altmans-claims-of-100-million-signing-bonuses-sam-is-just-being-dishonest-here" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Meta Exec Dismisses OpenAI's Sam Altman's Claims of $100 Million Signing Bonuses: ‘Sam Is Just Being Dishonest Here'</a>

News

Tech

Meta Just Paid $250M To Lure This 24-year-old AI Whiz Kid: A Strategic Move Or A Power Play?

The United States is preparing to eliminate its long-standing &#8220;de minimis&#8221; tariff exemption for low-value imports from every country, effective August 29, in a sweeping move to curb tariff evasion and<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/07/46781583/trump-slaps-35-tariff-on-canadian-goods-hits-68-other-nations-with-new-trade-war-amid-fentanyl-security-china-tensions" rel="noreferrer noopener"> bolster import oversight.</a>
Starting late August, packages valued at $800 or less—excluding those arriving via international postal services—will no longer qualify for duty-free entry, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.scmp.com/economy/global-economy/article/3320315/trumps-order-end-de-minimis-tariff-break-expands-china-rest-world" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> South China Morning Post.
See Also:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46749812/trump-jamie-dimon-reportedly-meet-after-presidents-fed-visit-ending-years-long-rift-what-changed" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump, Jamie Dimon Reportedly Meet After President&#8217;s Fed Visit, Ending Years-Long Rift: What Changed?</a>
Instead, these shipments will face full tariffs, as part of an executive order issued by President Donald Trump, aimed at halting patterns of abuse reported in global trade, analysts say.
Platforms like Shein, Temu, Etsy, and eBay, which have built businesses on ultra-cheap shipping to U.S. consumers, are set for disruption.
These businesses must now contend with higher compliance costs and potentially lower margins as new tariffs take effect.
According to U.S. officials, loopholes in the de minimis provision have enabled the smuggling of opioids and underpriced goods that undercut domestic producers.
The acceleration of the exception&#8217;s repeal—originally scheduled for mid-2027 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act—reflects rising concern over national security and economic fairness.
This action complements earlier steps taken in May to restrict duty-free imports from China and Hong Kong.
One expert observed that eliminating workarounds has pushed firms toward domestic warehousing or alternative export markets.
Read More:
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</ul>

Equities

Politics

Markets

General

US Ends De Minimis Tariff Loophole for All Imports, Disrupting Global E-Commerce

For people trying to get better with money, one <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44657313/ramit-sethi-shares-a-valuable-lesson-about-money-that-most-people-miss-few-people-teach-you-how-to-spend-money-meaningfully">mindset shift</a> can make a big difference: stop thinking of purchases in dollars and start thinking of them in hours of your life.
This idea recently gained traction on <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/DeepThoughts/comments/1m854qz/money_is_hours_of_our_life/">Reddit</a> after a person shared how earning $18 an hour changed the way they look at spending. "When I see something that costs $20 like a candy or some small thing I ask myself: ‘Does this mean I'm giving up an hour of my life for it?'" they wrote. "And that thought stops me every time."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From Dollars To Decisions</h2>
That simple shift from thinking &#8220;$20 isn&#8217;t much&#8221; to &#8220;this cost me an hour of my life&#8221; struck a nerve with others. Many said this mindset has helped them stop impulse spending and prioritize what really matters.
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&#8220;Every dollar you save is another minute of freedom you get back,&#8221; one person wrote.
Another added, &#8220;I dropped $40 into a slot machine, pulled the handle and it said: &#8216;You Lose.&#8217; I just poured 2 hours of my life into that machine. This sucks. I never gambled again.&#8221;
Some took it even further, linking money to freedom and control over time. "That's what wealth is, the ability to buy time," one user said. "Money is the closest thing we have to a store of time."
Others pointed out that time doesn't always have to equal money. &#8220;It might mean an hour of my job, which seems like a lot,&#8221; one person noted. But if it makes the rest of their day better, it could be worth it to them.
Trending: Accredited Investors: Grab Pre-IPO Shares of the AI Company Powering Hasbro, Sephora &amp; MGM—<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">Just $0.63 Before NASDAQ Launch</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mindful Spending, Not Miserable Budgeting</h2>
While this idea can help people be <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/06/39565262/you-may-be-suffering-from-money-dysmorphia-almost-one-third-of-americans-are-and-heres-why">more conscious about money</a>, people warned it shouldn&#8217;t become a joy-killing habit. &#8220;Sometimes it&#8217;s nice to make yourself happy. Just don&#8217;t let that be an excuse for everything,&#8221; one commenter advised.
Some offered a helpful twist: focus on the experience, not just the cost. &#8220;If that candy cost 20 bucks, you better do everything in your power to get the best experience you can for that candy,&#8221; one person wrote. &#8220;Make the experience worth the twenty bucks, NOT the purchase.&#8221;
Some also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-personal-finance-books">pointed to the book</a> &#8220;Your Money or Your Life,&#8221; by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez, which lays out this exact framework. Several people said it changed their lives.
In the end, many agreed on one thing: seeing purchases as chunks of your life can help you pause, think, and spend more intentionally. It's a simple but powerful way to align your spending with what actually matters to you.
Read Next:
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<li>Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $10.</a></li>
<li>Many are using retirement income calculators to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a></li>
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Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

Want To Save More And Spend Smarter? Try Seeing Every Purchase As Hours Of Your Life—It Puts Things In Perspective Fast

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) posted a 3.8% decline in second-quarter operating earnings, dragged down by weak insurance underwriting and a hefty $3.8 billion impairment<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46815600/berkshire-hathaway-warns-of-adverse-consequences-on-most-if-not-all-operating-businesses-as-q2-results-reflect-mounting-global-pressures" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> tied to its stake in The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KHC#NASDAQ">KHC</a>).</a>
However, other parts of Warren Buffett&#8217;s sprawling conglomerate helped cushion the blow.
Insurance underwriting profits fell 12% year-over-year to $1.99 billion, with reinsurance losses offsetting modest gains at GEICO.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/07/46713700/warren-buffetts-berkshire-now-earns-138-every-second-how-decades-old-bets-on-apple-coca-cola-chevron-are-paying-off-big-in-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warren Buffett&#8217;s Berkshire Now Earns $138 Every Second—How Decades-Old Bets On Apple, Coca-Cola, Chevron Are Paying Off Big In 2025</a>
In contrast, BNSF Railway saw a rebound with 19.5% growth year over year to $1.47 billion, logging strong earnings growth on the back of improved freight volumes and better pricing.
However, BNSF&#8217;s outstanding debt was $23.9 billion as of June 30, 2025 an increase of $355 million since December 31.
Berkshire Hathaway Energy delivered steady results with 7.2% growth to $702 million, supported by regulated utilities that provided a buffer amid broader market uncertainty.
Berkshire didn&#8217;t repurchase any of its own shares during the period.
The firm&#8217;s earnings <a target="_blank" href="https://www.berkshirehathaway.com/qtrly/2ndqtr25.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">report </a>highlighted that it will not repurchase stock if it reduces consolidated cash, cash equivalents and U.S. Treasury Bills holdings to below $30 billion.
But Berkshire affirmed that it may &#8220;repurchase its shares any time that Warren Buffett, Berkshire&#8217;s Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, believes that the repurchase price is below Berkshire&#8217;s intrinsic value, conservatively determined.&#8221;
In this regard, The Wall Street Journal <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wsj.com/business/earnings/berkshire-hathaway-q2-earnings-warren-buffett-deeff105" rel="noreferrer noopener">quoted </a>CFRA Research analyst Cathy Seifert, &#8220;Against the backdrop of very mediocre results, the lack of buybacks does not send a particularly confident or inspiring message for investors looking to get back into the stock.&#8221;
An Edward Jones analyst, Kyle Sanders told Reuters, &#8220;Investors are getting antsy and want to seek activity, and nothing is happening. Buffett definitely views the market as overvalued, and will sit back and wait for something to come to him.&#8221;
On the consumer side, Berkshire&#8217;s results were more mixed. Consumer products group revenues declined 5.1% year over year.
Year-to-date revenues declined at Fruit of the Loom (down 11.7%), Garan (down 10.1%) and Jazwares (down 38.5%), primarily attributable to lower volumes, including the impacts of business restructurings and uncertainties arising from international trade policies and tariffs, which produced delays in orders and shipments, particularly in the second quarter.
Service group revenues increased 8.9% in the second quarter, with p pre-tax earnings increasing 15.2%.
Berkshire said that shareholders&#8217; equity at June 30 was $668 billion, an increase of $18.6 billion since December 31, 2024.
Still, the most eye-catching figure remains Berkshire&#8217;s growing cash reserves.
As of June 30, the firm sat on $344.1 billion, just below the March record. With valuations cooling and interest rates still elevated, analysts speculate that Berkshire could target acquisitions across sectors—ranging from mid-sized insurers and industrials to energy infrastructure and even logistics.
&#8220;He probably feels that there&#8217;s less opportunity to allocate their capital at the moment and he&#8217;s talked about being patient,&#8221; Macrae Sykes, a portfolio manager at Gabelli, which owns Berkshire shares <a target="_blank" href="https://www.wsj.com/business/earnings/berkshire-hathaway-q2-earnings-warren-buffett-deeff105" rel="noreferrer noopener">told </a>The Wall Street Journal. &#8220;That&#8217;s a continuation of the last several quarters.&#8221;
As Buffett prepares to step aside at the end of 2025, successor Greg Abel may be poised to put some of that war chest to work, reshaping Berkshire&#8217;s dealmaking legacy in a new era.
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Earnings

Movers

Berkshire Buyback Pause Signals Caution Despite $344 Billion Cash Hoard, Rail Gains

Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), has expressed concerns over potentially losing control of the electric vehicle giant <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44657033/elon-musk-loses-11-billion-as-tesla-stock-plummets-in-wake-of-new-trump-tariffs">due to the influence of activist shareholders</a>.
What Happened: Musk, who currently owns a 12.8% stake in Tesla, is apprehensive about being dethroned by shareholders who may not align with his vision for the company&#8217;s future. 
He suggests that a 25% ownership stake would offer him adequate influence, while still leaving room for his possible removal.
Musk&#8217;s fears are rooted in past instances where shareholders voted in favor of a compensation package tied to the company&#8217;s growth targets, only to be overruled by&nbsp;Delaware Chancery Court Judge Kathaleen&nbsp;McCormick. 
Earlier in January in a post on X, he shared that about 25 percent ownership stake&nbsp;would be enough "to be influential, but not so much that I can't be overturned.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">I am uncomfortable growing Tesla to be a leader in AI &amp; robotics without having ~25% voting control. Enough to be influential, but not so much that I can't be overturned. Unless that is the case, I would prefer to build products outside of Tesla. You don't seem to understand…
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1746999488252703098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Musk has the opportunity to acquire an additional 304 million shares, which would boost his voting control by roughly 4% post-tax.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46510590/elon-musk-returns-to-intense-work-schedule-back-to-working-7-days-a-week-and-sleeping-in-the-office">Elon Musk Returns To Intense Work Schedule: &#8216;Back To Working 7 Days a Week and Sleeping in the Office&#8217;</a>
In a recent statement on Friday on X, Musk affirmed that he has no personal loans against Tesla stock and reiterated his anxieties about being ousted by &#8220;activist shareholders&#8221;. He expressed optimism that these concerns would be addressed at the forthcoming shareholders&#8217; meeting.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Just fyi I don't have personal loans at this time against Tesla stock. Also, the taxes on the options are ~45%, so net gain in voting control is more like 4%. It is worrying in that I don't want to build millions of robots and then potentially be ousted by activists and…
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1951025300156092778?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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There are rumors that Musk may resign if his ownership stake is curtailed, akin to the limitations imposed on his pay package. 
Nonetheless, a majority of shareholders who endorsed Musk&#8217;s pay package continue to support his leadership of Tesla&#8217;s operations.
Why It Matters: Musk&#8217;s concerns highlight the potential power dynamics at play within Tesla&#8217;s shareholder base. His potential loss of control could significantly impact the company&#8217;s strategic direction, given his instrumental role in shaping 
Tesla&#8217;s innovative trajectory. The upcoming shareholders&#8217; meeting will be a critical event, potentially determining the future of Musk&#8217;s leadership at Tesla.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/05/45602416/elon-musk-commits-to-intense-focus-on-x-xai-and-tesla-back-to-spending-24-7-at-work-sleeping-in-conference-server-factory-rooms" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Commits To Intense Focus on X/xAI and Tesla: ‘Back To Spending 24/7 at Work, Sleeping in Conference/Server/Factory Rooms'</a>
Image: Shutterstock

TSLA

Elon Musk Warns of Losing Tesla Control, Denies Personal Loans Tied To Shares

Warren Buffett&#8216;s&nbsp;Berkshire Hathaway Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) has reported&nbsp;a $3.8 billion impairment on&nbsp;its stake in&nbsp;Kraft Heinz Co.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KHC#NASDAQ">KHC</a>), marking a significant setback for the billionaire investor.
What Happened: Berkshire Hathaway has reduced&nbsp;the carrying value of its&nbsp;Kraft Heinz investment to $8.4&nbsp;billion, a significant drop from over&nbsp;$17 billion at the end&nbsp;of 2017. 
This marks&nbsp;a rare disappointment for Buffett,&nbsp;who played a key role in the merger of&nbsp;Kraft and Heinz about a&nbsp;decade ago, reports Bloomberg. 
The&nbsp;stock of the packaged foods&nbsp;giant has plummeted 62% since the merger, while the S&amp;P 500 has surged 202%. 
Berkshire&#8217;s&nbsp;Kraft Heinz stake is now&nbsp;marked at its fair value&nbsp;as of the end of&nbsp;June. The writedown was &#8220;overdue,&#8221; Kyle Sanders, an analyst at&nbsp;Edward Jones, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-08-02/buffett-s-berkshire-takes-3-8-billion-hit-on-kraft-heinz-stake?srnd=homepage-americas">told </a>the outlet. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46815600/berkshire-hathaway-warns-of-adverse-consequences-on-most-if-not-all-operating-businesses-as-q2-results-reflect-mounting-global-pressures">Berkshire Hathaway Warns of &#8216;Adverse Consequences on Most, If Not All, Operating Businesses&#8217; as Q2 Results Reflect Mounting Global Pressures</a>
Kraft Heinz is currently considering&nbsp;a spinoff of part of&nbsp;its business as it grapples&nbsp;with challenges such as inflation and a shift in consumer preference towards healthier alternatives. 
Last month, the company reported&nbsp;a decline in sales that&nbsp;wasn&#8217;t&nbsp;as bad as analysts had&nbsp;predicted, thanks in part to higher prices.
Why It Matters: The recent developments indicate a shift in Berkshire&#8217;s relationship with&nbsp;Kraft Heinz. In May, Kraft&nbsp;Heinz announced that Berkshire gave&nbsp;up seats on the packaged&nbsp;foods company's board.&nbsp;
The writedown, disclosed Saturday in&nbsp;a regulatory filing, was driven&nbsp;in part by the sustained&nbsp;decline in fair value. 
This could potentially signal a strategic move by Berkshire to distance itself from the underperforming packaged foods company.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/stock-split/25/07/46266095/warren-buffett-skips-big-banks-like-jpmorgan-and-wells-fargo-bets-459-million-on-this-one-asset">Warren Buffett Skips Big Banks Like JPMorgan and Wells Fargo, Bets $459 Million On This One Asset</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Berkshire Hathaway Faces $3.8 Billion Loss Tied to Kraft Heinz Stake

For many <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-pay-off-debt">drowning in debt</a>, filing for bankruptcy seems like the only escape. But one Redditor insists they escaped tens of thousands in debt with a risky bluff — one that skirted the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/25/07/46386533/dave-ramsey-warns-bankruptcy-is-huge-red-flag-that-can-delay-homeownership-by-years">scarlet letter</a> of a formal bankruptcy. <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/UnethicalLifeProTips/comments/1m8mavu/ulpt_tell_creditors_youre_declaring_bankruptcy/?share_id=5G5kTZvSj2BBCQ1HQspM5&amp;utm_medium=ios_app&amp;utm_name=iossmf&amp;utm_source=share&amp;utm_term=4&amp;sort=qa">Their story</a>, which garnered over 7,000 upvotes in the notorious Unethical Life Pro Tips subreddit, sparked kudos, curiosity and some skepticism.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Play? A Then-Unintentional Bluff</h2>
Years ago, the original poster was buried under credit card debt, with some accounts in default for multiple years. Collection calls were escalating, and lawsuits seemed imminent. Instead of ignoring the calls or folding under pressure, OP paid a bankruptcy attorney an initial retainer — roughly $1,800 — and directed all creditors to them.
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"I'm in the process of declaring bankruptcy and here is the attorney," became their mantra. Almost instantly, the calls stopped. No lawsuits followed. Creditors, assuming OP was on the verge of bankruptcy, seemingly wrote off the debt as a lost cause.
The twist? OP never ended up actually filing. Over time, the debts aged past the statute of limitations, and most were canceled. Five years later, they claimed to have an 800-plus credit score, a mortgage and multiple car loans, all while avoiding the stain of bankruptcy on their record —&nbsp;although it's worth noting that bankruptcy doesn't condemn you to being persona-non-grata with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-mortgage-lenders-that-work-with-chapter-7">lenders</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why the Unorthodox Tactic Might Work</h2>
Bankruptcy departments at creditors often pause aggressive collections once an attorney is involved, as pursuing a debtor nearing bankruptcy is often futile. But the poster's success hinged on a critical detail: They actually retained a lawyer, even if only briefly.
Trending: $100k+ in investable assets? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wiseradvisor-retirement-planning">Match with a fiduciary advisor for free to learn how you can maximize your retirement and save on taxes</a> – no cost, no obligation.
"To be clear I did actually retain the bankruptcy attorney," OP said in the comments. "Then I never followed through with whatever else I was supposed to provide and the bankruptcy filing never got done." This distinction may have been enough to deter creditors from escalating.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Similar Experiences and Skeptics Weigh In</h2>
Not everyone was convinced. One former Citibank collections employee noted that creditors often verify attorney retention. If they can't confirm it, calls resume and debtors may consequently even face a heightened level of scrutiny.
Another commenter, however, backed OP's story with their own experience: "I didn&#8217;t even retain a lawyer. I simply told every collector that called me that I was &#x2A;going to&#x2A; declare bankruptcy and that I was ‘in the middle' of it," they wrote.
See Also: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $10.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Fine Print</h2>
While OP's strategy worked in their case, it's far from foolproof. Creditors may still sue if they suspect bad faith, and lying about bankruptcy could have legal consequences. Plus, unpaid debts can linger on credit reports for years, even if uncollectible.
But whether a loophole or just luck, for OP the gamble paid off: "I avoided tens of thousands in debt with no real repercussions."&nbsp;
Read Next: The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?
Image: Shutterstock

No Bankruptcy, No Lawyer — Just One Risky Statement That Paused the Collection Calls

U.S. home sellers are pulling their properties off the market as buyers resist high asking prices.
What Happened: According to a report from Realtor.com, 48% surge in nationwide delistings in July compared to the same period last year. For every 100 homes newly listed in the US market in July, 21 were delisted. 
This trend suggests that sellers are clinging&nbsp;to peak-era price expectations and&nbsp;are unwilling to negotiate, said Danielle Hale, chief economist at Realtor.com.
The US housing market is at a pivotal juncture, with potential buyers wrestling with skyrocketing home prices, high mortgage rates, and other escalating costs. 
This has resulted in a lackluster home selling season this year.&nbsp;As a result, sellers are&nbsp;increasingly offering&nbsp;price discounts, and the market&nbsp;is slowly tilting in favor of buyers.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/06/46062859/mystery-seller-behind-105-million-plot-next-to-jeff-bezos-estate-finally-revealed">Mystery Seller Behind $105 Million Plot Next to Jeff Bezos Estate Finally Revealed</a>
&#8220;We are just getting past the peak of the selling season traditionally, and home sales tend to slow through the rest of the year as kids get back to school and families settle in,&#8221; Joel Berner from Realtor.com <a href="https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/summer-sales-home-inventory-housing-weekly-market-update-2025/">said</a>. 
The highest proportion&nbsp;of delistings compared to new&nbsp;listings nationwide was observed in Miami, Florida, at 59, more&nbsp;than double compared to May.&nbsp;Phoenix, Arizona, and Riverside, California, followed with 37 and 30 delistings respectively.
The current situation in the US housing market is a clear indication of the challenges sellers face in a market dominated by high prices and elevated mortgage rates. 
The reluctance of buyers to meet these high asking prices has led to a shift in the market dynamics, with sellers being forced to offer discounts or withdraw their properties from the market. 
This trend, if it continues, could have significant implications for the overall health of the US housing market.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45601025/trumps-mar-a-lago-neighbor-lists-home-for-12-5-million-32-times-original-price">Trump&#8217;s Mar-a-Lago Neighbor Lists Home for $12.5 Million — 32 Times Original Price</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Real Estate

American Home Sellers Retreat as Buyers Push Back Against Record Prices

When times feel uncertain — especially during retirement — it can be tempting to lock in a sense of security. For one couple, that meant wondering if they should prepay their rent for the next two to three years using a work bonus. But financial expert <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/07/46637541/worried-about-job-insecurity-suze-orman-recommends-making-this-smart-career-move-right-now">Suze Orman</a> says this move could cause more problems than it solves.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Question: Is Prepaying Rent a Smart Move?</h2>
On a <a href="https://omny.fm/shows/suze-ormans-women-and-money/ask-kt-suze-anything-how-can-i-get-a-mega-retirement-account">recent episode</a> of the "Women &amp; Money" podcast, Orman and her partner, KT, read a question from a listener named Linda. Linda and her wife, both recently retired at ages 73 and 70, asked whether they should use a recent bonus to pay several years of rent in advance. The couple already had $600,000 in a diversified investment portfolio and hoped to avoid drawing from it until 2028.
Orman's answer? A firm no.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Paying Rent in Advance Can Be Risky</h2>
"Rent is the keyword here," KT said quickly after reading the question. Orman agreed — and for what she called "a whole lot of reasons."
One of the biggest concerns is that prepaying rent doesn't give you anything in return — it's not building equity like a mortgage would, and it doesn't improve the value of an asset. It's simply money spent, upfront, for a place you don't own. That can become a problem if your circumstances change.
Orman isn't against renting itself. In fact, she's recommended it in certain situations. But handing over two or three years of rent in advance during retirement raises red flags. Here's why:
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Life changes happen. Anything could happen to you or your partner over the next few years. If you pay now and plans change — due to health, relocation, or other circumstances — you might not be able to get your money back.</li>
<li>Landlords can change too. "Who is she paying rent to?" Orman asked. "The landlord." Landlords can sell, pass away, or change the terms of a lease. That could complicate things — especially if rent payments were made years in advance.</li>
<li>The money could work harder elsewhere. Instead of locking it away in rent, Orman suggests keeping it in a safe, interest-earning account like a money market fund. That way, it's still accessible if needed and earning something in the meantime.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Better Approach for Retirees</h2>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46383766/can-you-guess-what-a-rich-retiree-with-3-million-spends-per-year-its-a-lot-less-than-youd-expect">Retirees</a> looking to delay drawing down investment income may benefit more by keeping bonus funds liquid. Orman pointed out that even in volatile markets, there are ways to grow your money conservatively. "Just put it somewhere safe as your rent money, making money market interest rates," she said. "These markets still have a lot to go."
In short, tying up tens of thousands of dollars in prepaid rent isn't just unnecessary — it could limit your financial flexibility during retirement.
See Also: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $10.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bottom Line</h2>
While <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/25/07/46383048/gen-z-doomed-to-pay-rent-forever-number-of-first-time-buyers-shrink-as-average-house-tops-422000">paying rent</a> years in advance might seem like a smart way to reduce future stress, Orman says it introduces too many risks. From changes in your own life to uncertainties with landlords, the safer strategy is to keep that money earning interest and available for when you need it.
As Orman put it, "That's such a waste of money — I cannot even tell you."
Read Next: Many are using retirement income calculators to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a>
Image: Shutterstock

'Should We Pay Our Rent 2 To 3 Years In Advance?' Suze Orman Says No For 'A Whole Lot Of Reasons'

In the face of potential penalties threatened by President Donald Trump, India has affirmed its decision to continue buying cheap oil from Russia. This development surfaces amidst ongoing India-U.S. talks concerning a bilateral trade agreement.
What Happened: According to a report, Indian officials have expressed their determination to persist with their oil imports from Russia, despite the looming&nbsp;threat of penalties from President&nbsp;Trump. 
The U.S. President had recently announced a new series of tariffs, incorporating an unspecified penalty on India should it not halt&nbsp;its imports of Russian crude&nbsp;oil.
Two high-ranking Indian officials <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/02/world/asia/india-russia-oil-trump-threats.html">told </a>The New York Times on Saturday that there has been no alteration in their policy. One of them stated that the government has not directed oil companies to cut down imports from Russia. The precise nature of the potential penalty from the U.S. is yet to be clarified.
India&#8217;s purchases of Russian oil have seen a significant surge&nbsp;since the war in Ukraine&nbsp;commenced. Russia now supplies over a third of India&#8217;s oil imports, positioning India as&nbsp;the second largest importer of&nbsp;Russian oil after China. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46714946/trump-warns-india-of-25-tariffs-as-trade-talks-stall-ahead-of-august-1-deadline">Trump Warns India Of 25% Tariffs As Trade Talks Stall Ahead Of August 1 Deadline</a>
There is speculation that Trump&#8217;s emphasis on India&#8217;s procurement&nbsp;of Russian oil could be&nbsp;a strategic move in the ongoing trade agreement negotiations between the two countries.
Why It Matters: India&#8217;s decision to continue importing Russian oil despite U.S. threats of penalties underscores the country&#8217;s strategic and economic considerations. With Russia accounting for over a third of India&#8217;s oil imports, the country&#8217;s energy security is closely tied to its relationship with Russia. 
This move also indicates India&#8217;s determination to maintain its foreign policy independence, even in the face of potential economic sanctions.
The ongoing trade agreement negotiations between India and the U.S. add another layer of complexity to the situation. 
If President Trump&#8217;s focus on India&#8217;s purchase of Russian oil is indeed a negotiating tactic, it could potentially impact the outcome of these discussions. However, with India standing firm on its decision, the ball is now in the U.S.&#8217;s court to respond.
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Image: Shutterstock

India Stands Firm on Russian Oil Imports Despite Trump's Sanction Threats

OpenAI CEO <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45600321/sam-altmans-150m-ai-chip-bet-crashes-rain-ai-faces-sale-as-openai-nvidia-and-microsoft-circle-the-wreckage">Sam Altman</a> delivered a striking metaphor during a recent appearance on Theo Von's "This Past Weekend"<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aYn8VKW6vXA&amp;ab_channel=TheoVon"> podcast</a>, comparing the creation of advanced artificial intelligence systems to the development of the atomic bomb.
Altman acknowledged that the future of AI is far too complex for anyone to map out with certainty, even as its potential impact rivals the most groundbreaking inventions in history. "I think no one can predict the future. Human society is very complex. This is an amazing new technology. Maybe a less dramatic example than the atomic bomb is when they discovered the transistor a few years later," he said.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OpenAI CEO Draws Chilling Parallel to Manhattan Project</h2>
Altman explained that researchers at OpenAI occasionally feel the same moral weight as scientists who witnessed the first nuclear weapon test in 1945. "There are these moments in the history of science where you have a group of scientists look at their creation and just say, you know, what have we done?" he said on the podcast.
Altman also discussed the growing competition in AI development. "I think there is a race to get somewhere, but people don't agree on where it's to," he said, adding that he does not have a clear finish line for what AI success ultimately means.
Trending: $100k+ in investable assets? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wiseradvisor-retirement-planning">Match with a fiduciary advisor for free to learn how you can maximize your retirement and save on taxes</a> – no cost, no obligation.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sam Altman Warns Social Media May Be More Harmful Than AI</h2>
Altman said he believes <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/04/44824966/sam-altmans-openai-explores-creating-social-media-competitor-to-elon-musks-x">social media</a> poses a greater danger to children than artificial intelligence. He described short‑form video platforms as addictive, saying, "I think this scrolling, the kind of like, you know, short video feed dopamine hit, it feels like it's probably messing with kids' brain development in a super deep way."
While older adults may find it difficult to adapt to an AI‑driven economy, Altman believes younger generations will adjust naturally to new technologies. He argued that historically, children who grow up with new tools always find ways to use them effectively, while older adults may struggle to learn radically different skills.
"If you look at the history of the world here, when there's a new technology, like people that grow up with it, they're always fluent," he said. "They always figure out what to do. They always learn the new kind of jobs. But if you're a 50-year-old and you have to kind of learn to do things in a very different way, that doesn't always work. So, I think the kids are gonna be fine."
See Also: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $10.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Concerns About AI Companions and Unpredictable Outcomes</h2>
Altman also warned about potential downsides of "AI companions" that could replace human relationships. "I don't think we know quite the ways in which it's going to have those negative impacts, but I feel for sure it's gonna have some and… I hope we can learn to mitigate it quickly," he said.
Despite the risks, Altman said predicting the future impact of AI is nearly impossible. He compared the uncertainty to how people in 1900 could not imagine life in 2000, saying the unpredictability is part of what makes innovation both thrilling and unsettling.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
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Sam Altman Compares OpenAI To The Manhattan Project—And He's Not Joking About the Risks

Kevin O&#8217;Leary has publicly expressed his disapproval of President Donald Trump&#8216;s decision to fire Erika McTarfer, the Commissioner of the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What Happened: O&#8217;Leary, who is the chairman of O&#8217;Leary Ventures, voiced his criticism on CNN on Friday. He disagreed with Trump&#8217;s decision to dismiss McTarfer, stating, &#8220;You don't shoot the messenger.&#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">&quot;So tell me why the American economy right now is at its highest value in history? This is not an ad for Trump. I&#39;m an investor. Something&#39;s working here. It&#39;s a policy decision. I&#39;m a policy guy.&quot; Kevin O&#39;Leary pushes back aggressively on CNN&#39;s downplaying of Trump&#39;s economy. <a href="https://t.co/c8duz2SKCx">pic.twitter.com/c8duz2SKCx</a>
&mdash; Thomas Hern (@ThomasMHern) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThomasMHern/status/1951331560264761827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Previously, Trump had baselessly accused McTarfer of &#8220;faking&#8221; the job numbers. 
This accusation came after a July report that indicated&nbsp;the weakest job growth in&nbsp;a month since December 2020, and included significant downward revisions for May and June.
In a <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114954846612623858">post </a>on Truth Social, Trump slammed McEntarfer stating she altered job reports to favor former Vice President Kamala Harris during the November election and said he'd given his team orders to dismiss the&nbsp;Biden&nbsp;appointee "IMMEDIATELY."
Despite having previously argued that Trump&#8217;s&nbsp;policies had been beneficial to&nbsp;him as an investor, O&#8217;Leary stated that the decision to fire McTarfer &#8220;makes no sense whatsoever.&#8221;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/macro-notification/25/06/46042491/kevin-oleary-highlights-growing-concern-over-401k-contributions-amid-rising-household-debt">Kevin O&#8217;Leary Highlights Growing Concern Over 401(k) Contributions Amid Rising Household Debt</a>
"We had a bad print on jobs. I did not agree on whacking the commissioner. I don't like that. "Whacking statisticians makes no sense whatsoever. You don't shoot the messenger," O'Leary said during the interview. 
"I think the market is a little concerned about major trading partners not getting deals yet. It's not a good idea to have 35 percent tariffs on Canada. We know that that's coming into place at midnight right now unless something magic happens," O'Leary further added. 
Why It Matters: The dismissal of McTarfer by President Trump has sparked controversy and criticism. The Bureau of Labor Statistics plays a crucial role in providing accurate and essential data related to employment and labor market activity. 
The dismissal of its Commissioner, especially under baseless accusations, raises concerns about the integrity and reliability of future data. 
O&#8217;Leary&#8217;s criticism underscores the importance of maintaining credibility and transparency in such crucial institutions. The impact of this decision on investor confidence and market stability remains to be seen.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock

Kevin O'Leary Slams Trump for 'Whacking' BLS Chief After Disappointing Jobs Report: 'You Don't Shoot the Messenger'

Deciding when to claim Social Security can be a tricky choice — even more so when your partner disagrees with your plan.
One woman recently turned to Reddit's <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/SocialSecurity/comments/1m6rovi/im_going_to_strangle_my_partner/">r/SocialSecurity forum</a> to vent about her 67-year-old partner, who is earning $175,000 annually but wants to start collecting his Social Security benefits now — even though waiting three more years would increase his monthly check by more than $1,000.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why He Wants the Money Now</h2>
Her partner spent much of his career running a business, often paying himself little or nothing in salary. After selling the business, he began working in accounting and now earns a high salary working directly for a private client.
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Despite not needing the money, he wants to claim <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46570058/78-americans-fear-their-social-security-wont-stretch-far-enough-aarp-survey-finds-as-trust-funds-clock-ticks-down">Social Security</a> at 67 — a decision his partner says doesn't make sense. &#8220;He would barely be making $2,000 a month," she wrote. &#8220;With his current income that would jump by over 1000 when he hits 70.&#8221;
But for him, it's not about financial need. He simply wants the money &#8220;in the bank now.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Waiting Until 70 Would Do</h2>
Under current <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/delayret.html">Social Security rules</a>, delaying benefits past full retirement age — which is 66 or 67 depending on your birth year — increases your monthly check by 8% per year, up until age 70.
For someone like this Reddit user's partner, waiting could mean an extra $12,000 a year for life. But the trade-off is missing out on three years' worth of lower payments — about $72,000 total — before that extra income starts.
Trending: ‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. You can <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">invest today for just $0.30/share.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Commenters Weigh In: Is It Worth the Wait?</h2>
The responses to her post highlighted the classic Social Security dilemma: Take the smaller check sooner or hold out for a bigger benefit later?
"It's a gamble," one commenter wrote. "Nobody knows when they'll be taken from this world." Another pointed out that if the partner passes away before 70, all that waiting could amount to nothing.
Others emphasized the break-even point — typically around age 76 to 78 — when the total value of waiting surpasses the value of claiming early. &#8220;He'll be 76 before he starts recovering funds lost that would&#8217;ve been given up by retiring early,&#8221; one user calculated.
Still, some said that if he doesn&#8217;t need the income, waiting seems like a logical move.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Not Married? Survivor Benefits May Not Apply</h2>
Some commenters brought up an important point: if the couple isn't married, survivor benefits may not apply. "I just watched a friend lose out on benefits after her long-time partner passed away," one commenter noted.
See Also: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $10.</a>
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46559438/he-lost-his-wife-and-now-hes-been-waiting-over-6-months-for-her-social-security-benefits">Social Security survivor benefits</a> are generally available only to legal spouses. So if the partner were to pass away before or shortly after claiming, and they aren&#8217;t legally married, the woman might not be eligible to receive those benefits. It's a detail worth clarifying when planning for the long term.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">There's No One-Size-Fits-All Answer</h2>
Ultimately, the decision depends on health, life expectancy, financial needs — and in some cases, peace of mind. Users recommended tools like <a href="http://opensocialsecurity.com/">OpenSocialSecurity.com</a> to help crunch the numbers based on individual situations.
One user summed it up: "It&#8217;s your partner&#8217;s decision to make."
For <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/25/06/46067517/how-much-do-rich-couples-have-saved-for-retirement-heres-what-a-wealthy-nest-egg-really-looks-like">couples nearing retirement</a>, it's a good reminder that Social Security planning isn't just about the numbers — it's also about communication.
Read Next: Many are using retirement income calculators to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a>
Image: Shutterstock

She Says He Should Wait Until Age 70 For A $1,000 Bigger Social Security Check — But Her 67-Year-Old Partner Earning $175K Wants The Money Now

A Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) wallet that has been inactive&nbsp;for over a decade was&nbsp;emptied on Friday, marking a significant movement in the cryptocurrency market.
What Happened: The Bitcoin wallet, known by the initial &#8220;1c5Cb,&#8221; was first funded back in 2013 through a CoinJoin address, reveals the blockchain <a href="https://intel.arkm.com/explorer/address/1C5CbStPFhstsxkzxxrat27nCQT7kuR8rq">data</a>. Back then, Bitcoin was primarily used for transactions&nbsp;on the darknet market Silk&nbsp;Road and was valued at around $75.
Since its initial funding, the value of Bitcoin has skyrocketed by 152,300%, bringing the total value of the wallet to a staggering $34.8 million. The recent price of Bitcoin has been fluctuating below $114,000.
Just two weeks ago, another dormant address moved a whopping&nbsp;$4.7 billion to crypto exchange&nbsp;Galaxy Digital. The firm later announced&nbsp;it had sold 80,000 Bitcoin&nbsp;worth $9 billion on behalf&nbsp;of a client. 
A similar transaction involving&nbsp;50 Bitcoin worth $5 million&nbsp;was activated in April.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46510203/1-billion-bitcoin-transfer-triggers-massive-liquidations-this-is-where-it-was-offloaded">$1 Billion Bitcoin Transfer Triggers Massive Liquidations — This Is Where It Was Offloaded</a>
According to on-chain data firm CryptoQuant, Bitcoin may be&nbsp;in a months-long correction phase&nbsp;as long-term holders cash in. The firm noted that the market is experiencing significant selling from large holders, known as &#8220;whales,&#8221;&nbsp;for the third time since&nbsp;2024.
The Bitcoin moved on Friday&nbsp;was split between two wallets,&nbsp;holding 106 and 200 Bitcoin respectively. The transaction&nbsp;did not appear to be&nbsp;heading to an exchange.
CoinJoin addresses are used to&nbsp;enhance the privacy of Bitcoin&nbsp;transactions by combining multiple users&#8217;&nbsp;Bitcoin into a single transaction.&nbsp;This makes it more difficult&nbsp;to track the flow of&nbsp;transactions.
Experts have identified early Bitcoin&nbsp;miners as potential targets for quantum computers, capable of cracking Bitcoin&#8217;s&nbsp;encryption for early wallet-address types.&nbsp;
This includes coins belonging to Bitcoin&#8217;s pseudonymous creator, Satoshi Nakamoto, who is&nbsp;believed to own 1.1 million&nbsp;Bitcoin,&nbsp;worth $125 billion at current&nbsp;prices.
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Image: Shutterstock/Paopano

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

Cryptocurrency

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Decade-Old Bitcoin Wallet Emptied, Millions in BTC Moved Amid Market Correction

Each summer brings us a new "it drink." The last few years have seen the Dirty Shirley, the Chilton, and the Hugo Spritz all having their moment, but this year, a lesser-known pick is taking top billing: the spaghett.
The spaghett consists of a bottled beer – Miller High Life is the preferred choice – topped with Aperol and a splash of lemon. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/spaghett-recession-economy-miller-high-life-aperol-drink-consumer-spending-2025-7">Business Insider</a> says that the wallet-friendly option, which is sometimes called a "trailer park spritz," is yet another recession indicator.
While there are a number of reasons the spaghett is seeing its popularity surge this summer— from a Miller High Life marketing push to a culture shift in attitudes towards alcohol— the outlet says there's one factor that stands out above the rest. Namely, that beer cocktails like the spaghett tend to be a lot cheaper than mixed drinks.&nbsp;
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&#8220;As consumers are looking to pull back a bit on spending and shift to lower ABV beverages, we&#8217;ve seen a rise in the popularity of beer cocktails — across restaurants on Square, orders for Spaghetts and other beer and spirit mixes have been increasing over the past few years,&#8221; Square Head of Food and Beverage Ming-Tai Huh said.&nbsp;
According to Square data, Spaghett orders are up by 65% from the first half of the year, and have increased by 1000% since 2022. Google searches for the drink, the outlet reports, are also on the rise.
As consumers become increasingly concerned about the state of the economy and the impacts tariffs will have on their wallets in the coming months, they've begun to look for easy ways to save a buck or two. They'll vacation closer to home, spend less on eating out, and reduce the number of shopping trips they're partaking in.
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Alcohol spending is another effortless place to cut back. When Business Insider polled a series of bartenders about how they charge for a spaghett, answers varied from no extra charge to a dollar to double the price of a low-cost beer. Regardless of exactly how they configure the bill, it almost always comes out to less than a Hugo Spritz or a Dirty Shirley.
Spaghetts aren't the only beer cocktail trending this summer. The Corona sunrise, the beermosa, the lagerita, and the shandy are also popping up on menus in joints around the country. For many consumers, the drinks are a way to add a little fun to a day without breaking the bank.
If you find yourself appreciating the cost-saving element of the trend, but are unsure about the taste, Julianna McIntosh, author of the beverage recipe book "Pretty Simple Cocktails," says not to worry. "Don&#8217;t knock it till you try it,&#8221; she said of the spaghett. &#8220;It&#8217;s actually really, really fun.&#8221;
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Image: Shutterstock

Step Aside, Hugo Spritz: Why The Spaghett Is The Drink Of The Summer – And A Recession Indicator

Perplexity Chief Executive Officer Aravind Srinivas says speed and urgency are nonnegotiable as his artificial intelligence startup races tech giants.
"I don't do anything other than working," Aravind Srinivas admitted in a <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/perplexity_ai/comments/1jv9hvm/ama_with_perplexity_cofounder_and_ceo_aravind/">Reddit Ask Me Anything</a> in May, emphasizing the intense focus needed to stay ahead in the AI race. Srinivas leads a $14 billion search engine challenge to Alphabet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>, GOOGL)), Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), and Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>). <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDtxClXAJ2g">Speaking</a> at Y Combinator's AI Startup School in mid-June, he warned that bigger firms will inevitably copy successful ideas.
Investors crave speed, rivals borrow ideas, and users expect quick answers. Srinivas's strategy is clear: move faster than fear and keep building. His advice to founders is to treat urgency as a protective moat until the tech giants catch up.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Embracing Fear As Strategy</h2>
"Live with that fear. You have to embrace it," Srinivas told the students, explaining that founders must remember "your moat comes from moving fast and building your own identity." He added a broader warning: "You should assume that if you have a big hit… a model company will copy it."
Perplexity shocked Silicon Valley with a <a href="https://www.perplexity.ai/page/perplexity-ai-in-talks-for-500-lkMydBK6QFuNZI6P5sg0Hw">$14 billion valuation</a> after its Series C funding round in May. Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-20/apple-executives-have-held-internal-talks-about-buying-ai-startup-perplexity">reported</a> in June that Apple executives even discussed acquiring the startup to strengthen Safari's search abilities. <a href="https://blog.google/products/search/generative-ai-google-search-may-2024/">Google</a> and <a href="https://blogs.bing.com/search/April-2025/Introducing-Copilot-Search-in-Bing">Microsoft</a> responded by adding AI summaries to their search results. Srinivas simply shrugs, insisting that speed outpaces scale.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Work-Life Trade-Offs Get Real</h2>
Srinivas doesn't downplay the personal strain of running an AI startup. In the same Reddit AMA, he admitted to working nonstop, squeezing in audiobooks and podcasts whenever he could—even if sleep had to wait. He <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/doom-scrolling-use-ai-perplexity-ceo-jobs-aravind-srinivas-2025-7">urges</a> individuals to ditch doom‑scrolling on Instagram and focus on mastering AI instead, warning that adaptability and grit—not comfort—will determine who thrives as the field accelerates.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AI Gold Rush Raises Stakes</h2>
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman <a href="https://x.com/zfellows/status/1831304883141558301">predicted</a> a "one-person billion-dollar company" while chatting with Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian last year. Meanwhile, former "Shark Tank" investor Mark Cuban went further in June, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dyRlhORLG6s&amp;t=9s">telling</a> the &#8220;High Performance" podcast that AI may mint the first "trillionaire… just one dude in a basement." Those forecasts intensify the spotlight on Perplexity and the broader AI field.
But with that spotlight comes pressure. Perplexity's head of communications, Jesse Dwyer, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/perplexity-ceo-aravind-srinivas-tech-giants-copy-features-2025-7">told</a> Business Insider that Big Tech companies "not only copy your features but they also try to drown your voice," highlighting the uphill communication battle startups face when competing with dominant platforms.
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'I Don't Do Anything Other Than Working,' Says Perplexity CEO Aravind Srinivas As His $14 Billion AI Startup Challenges Tech Giants

A 90-year-old woman could soon lose her <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46648812/she-just-does-what-she-wants-with-it-disabled-man-says-mom-misused-his-ssi-now-hes-fighting-for-control">Supplemental Security Income benefits</a> due to a paperwork issue — and her only surviving relative is racing against time to resolve it.
The woman, who lives in an assisted living facility and has been in a fragile state for years, recently became the focus of a situation that's raising questions about how <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/07/46682845/warren-buffetts-2005-warning-echoes-louder-as-social-security-faces-18100-benefit-cut-by-2033-crfb-warns">Social Security</a> handles representative payee assignments for beneficiaries who cannot manage their own money.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">SSI Benefits in Jeopardy Without Payee</h2>
According to a <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/SocialSecurity/comments/1m26sp3/90_years_old_in_risk_of_loosing_her_ssimedicare/">post</a> shared on Reddit's r/SocialSecurity forum, the woman's daughter-in-law received a call from the Social Security Administration in May, saying the woman needs a new representative payee — someone officially approved to manage her SSI benefits. Without one, her payments could be suspended.
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The challenge: Her daughter-in-law is not a direct relative, and the assisted living facility where the woman resides won't serve in that role. "They don't do it and don't have capacity for it," the poster explained.&nbsp;
Though she already holds financial power of attorney and is a co-signer on the account, she fears her application to become an official payee may be rejected.
To make matters worse, the woman&#8217;s son — her only child — died in June. No other family members remain to step in.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Is a Representative Payee?</h2>
A representative payee is someone appointed by the SSA to manage benefit payments for individuals who cannot do so themselves due to age, illness, or disability. According to the <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/payee/?tl=1">SSA</a>, they prefer to assign family or friends — and in many cases, a daughter-in-law could qualify. However, the individual must still go through an official approval process.&nbsp;
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If that's not possible, they may appoint a qualified organization; however, the assisted living facility where the woman resides has already said they don't have the capacity to take on that role.
A power of attorney or being a joint account holder is not enough. Only someone officially appointed through SSA's process — usually by completing <a href="https://pl.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/cons_fbu_11.pdf">Form SSA-11</a> — can serve in this role.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Options Still Available</h2>
Reddit users familiar with the system offered potential solutions. One pointed out that the bank has no say in who becomes a representative payee — that authority lies solely with the SSA. Others noted that while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45458742/who-can-be-my-financial-power-of-attorney-if-i-dont-have-anyone-suze-orman-advises-listener-who-doesnt-have-family-or-children">financial power of attorney</a> is helpful, it doesn't carry the same legal weight as being a court-appointed guardian or SSA-approved payee.
Some commenters recommended contacting the local Adult Protective Services office or the Department of Health Services to explore options for guardianship. Another suggested working with a local ombudsman, who may assist in navigating this process, especially when language barriers and cognitive issues are involved.
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If the woman is still capable of signing paperwork, she may be able to designate her daughter-in-law as her preferred payee. However, in cases where the beneficiary can't understand or make decisions, SSA must determine someone appropriate to manage the funds.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Complicated System With Real Consequences</h2>
This case highlights a critical issue facing many older adults: when mental capacity declines and family networks shrink, managing government benefits can become a bureaucratic maze.
The SSA encourages anyone concerned about a beneficiary's ability to manage their payments to call 1-800-772-1213 or visit their local office. When no friends or family are available, the SSA may assign a professional or organizational payee to ensure benefits are still used for the recipient's well-being.
In the meantime, families like this one continue searching for answers — and solutions — to avoid the unthinkable: a senior citizen losing access to the support she depends on.
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Image: Shutterstock

90-Year-Old Faces Loss Of SSI Benefits Over Lack Of Approved Payee — Family Member Scrambles For Options

At a fireside chat in Omaha, billionaire investor Bill Ackman once gave timeless investing advice to an 11-year-old, explaining why uncertain markets often offer the best buying opportunities.
What Happened: During a Q&amp;A session hosted by Pershing Square and UBS before the Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting in May 2025, a young attendee named Olivia asked Ackman whether tariffs—amid ongoing market volatility—created an opportunity for investment or warranted caution.
Ackman, the CEO of Pershing Square Capital Management, praised the question and delivered a powerful lesson in long-term investing.
"Anytime that something happens in markets that creates uncertainty, generally stocks go down, risk premia go up," he said. "If you wait until the uncertainty goes away, then everything reprices… [and] is much more likely to go back to fair value."
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He underscored that periods of maximum uncertainty—whether due to tariffs, COVID-19, or the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/treasuries/25/06/46012056/peter-schiff-predicts-worse-financial-crisis-than-2008-as-fed-holds-rates-the-solution-involves-much-higher-interest-rates-as-years-of-easy-money-trigger-stagflation-and-investor-exodus">2008 financial crisis</a>—often present the best times to deploy capital.
"If you start your compounding at 11, this is an excellent question," Ackman said. "You as an investor should get excited anytime … it gets uncertain, and the clouds come in, the storm is going. That's when you want to have capital to invest."
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Bill Ackman and Ryan Israel - UBS Berkshire Hathaway Fireside Chat (2025)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/EtUcrlU23Oc?start=52&#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>
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Why It's Important: There are several high-profile investors who agree with what Ackman said.&nbsp;
Warren Buffett is one such investor who also views market uncertainty as an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44533852/what-would-buffett-do-with-markets-inches-away-from-the-extreme-fear-zone-is-it-finally-time-to-be-greedy">opportunity rather than a threat</a>. While many investors react to volatility with fear and impulsive decisions, Buffett stays calm and strategic, following his famous advice: "Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful."
Sir John Templeton, the renowned investor, once said that the time of "maximum pessimism" is the best time to buy, highlighting that the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/20/03/15668620/ariel-chairman-john-rogers-thinks-current-market-is-once-in-a-lifetime-opportunity-to-buy-stocks&amp;quot;">greatest investment opportunities</a> often emerge when fear and uncertainty are at their highest.
Renowned economist and financial historian Peter Bernstein also once underscored the critical role of uncertainty in investing, stating, "The greatest tragedies occur when people forget about uncertainty."
Photo Courtesy: Mizkit on Shutterstock.com
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Bill Ackman Once Told An 11-Year-Old The Best Time To Invest In The Stock Market: Here Is What He Told The Child About Smart Money

Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) is facing the heat from global trade tensions and tariff headwinds, as weak insurance and investment hits dragged down its second-quarter performance reported on Saturday morning.
The Omaha-based company&#8217;s operating earnings dipped 3.8% to $11.16 billion in the latest quarter. Sluggish insurance underwriting and a bruising $3.8 billion blow from its stake at The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KHC#NASDAQ">KHC</a>) weighed on profits.
According to the Berkshire&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.berkshirehathaway.com/news/aug0225.pdf" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a>, the decline was largely&nbsp;driven by a 12% plunge&nbsp;in insurance-underwriting profit, which&nbsp;came in at $1.99 billion&nbsp;for the second quarter, down&nbsp;from $2.26 billion a year&nbsp;prior.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/07/46713700/warren-buffetts-berkshire-now-earns-138-every-second-how-decades-old-bets-on-apple-coca-cola-chevron-are-paying-off-big-in-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">Warren Buffett&#8217;s Berkshire Now Earns $138 Every Second—How Decades-Old Bets On Apple, Coca-Cola, Chevron Are Paying Off Big In 2025</a>
The quarterly report marks the first earnings announcement since 94-year-old Warren Buffett announced he will step <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45184410/warren-buffett-to-step-down-as-berkshire-hathaway-ceo-by-end-of-year-asks-board-to-confirm-greg-abel-as-successor" rel="noreferrer noopener">down as CEO at the end of 2025</a>.
Greg Abel, currently vice-chairman overseeing non-insurance operations, is slated to succeed him as CEO. Buffett will continue to serve as chairman of Berkshire&#8217;s board.
&#8220;The pace of changes in these events, including tensions from developing international trade policies and tariffs, accelerated through the first six months of 2025. Considerable uncertainty remains as to the ultimate outcome of these events,&#8221; Berkshire said in its <a href="https://www.berkshirehathaway.com/qtrly/2ndqtr25.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">earnings</a> report.
As of June 30, 2025, Berkshire Hathaway&#8217;s equity portfolio remained heavily concentrated, with five companies:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>American Express Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>)</li>
<li>Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)</li>
<li>Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>)</li>
<li>Coca-Cola Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KO#NYSE">KO</a>)</li>
<li>Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>)</li>
</ul>
These five companies accounted for 67% of total equity holdings at the end of the second quarter, lower than&nbsp;&nbsp;71% as of December 2024.
Berkshire said it and its subsidiaries hold investments that are accounted for pursuant to the equity method.
As of the end of the second quarter, the firm owned 27.4% of the outstanding The Kraft Heinz Company common stock and 28.1% of the outstanding Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OXY#NYSE">OXY</a>) common stock.
On May 20, 2025, Kraft Heinz announced it was exploring potential strategic transactions to boost shareholder value but gave no guarantee of any outcome.
Considering this uncertainty and broader economic conditions, Berkshire determined that the decline in Kraft Heinz&#8217;s stock value was &#8220;other-than-temporary&#8221;.
Warren Buffett&#8217;s cash reserves stood at $344.1 billion at the end of June 2025, just below the record $347 billion reported at the end of March, per a CNBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/08/02/berkshire-hathaway-brk-earnings-q2-2025.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">report</a>.
&#8220;We are currently unable to reliably predict the ultimate impact on our businesses, whether through changes in the availability of products, supply chain costs and efficiency, and customer demand for our products and services,&#8221; the company said.
Berkshire Hathaway continued its trend as a net seller of stocks for the 11th consecutive quarter, offloading $4.5 billion worth of equities during the first half of the year.
&#8220;It is reasonably possible there could be adverse consequences on most, if not all, of our operating businesses, as well as on our investments in equity securities, which could significantly affect our future results.&#8221; Berkshire added.
As Buffett prepares to pass the torch, Berkshire faces a turbulent road ahead—navigating market headwinds, investment volatility, and global economic uncertainty that could reshape its future playbook.
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Berkshire Hathaway Warns of 'Adverse Consequences on Most, If Not All, Operating Businesses' as Q2 Results Reflect Mounting Global Pressures

Jeff Bezos warned Amazon.com's early managers in 1998 that the company would live or die by the caliber of its hires and reduced the company&#8217;s hiring philosophy to three deceptively simple questions that tied down to a common goal.
What Happened: In a shareholder <a href="https://media.corporate-ir.net/media_files/irol/97/97664/reports/Shareholderletter98.pdf">letter</a> that spring, Bezos instructed interviewers to ponder three queries before extending an offer: "Will you admire this person? … Will this person raise the average level of effectiveness of the group they're entering? … Along what dimension might this person be a superstar?"
The questions, he wrote, ensured "the bar has to continuously go up" and kept Amazon "fighting entropy" as it raced across the nascent internet retail landscape.
Bezos illustrated the point with whimsy. &#8220;One person here is a National Spelling Bee champion (1978, I believe). I suspect it doesn't help her in everyday work, but it does make working here more fun if you can occasionally snag her in the hall with a quick challenge: "onomatopoeia!",&#8221; he wrote. Unique talents, even unrelated to a job, he argued, "enrich the work environment for all of us."
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That early doctrine was later formalized into Amazon's "bar-raiser" program, a cadre of trained interviewers who veto any candidate that fails to improve the talent pool, a system Chief Executive Andy Jassy still <a href="https://aws.amazon.com/careers/life-at-aws-amazons-bar-raiser-program-hiring-for-long-term-growth-and-innovation/">hails</a> as "one of Amazon's crown jewels."
Why It Matters: Bezos kept evangelizing high standards long after Amazon scaled beyond books. His 2017 letter <a href="https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/company-news/2017-letter-to-shareholders">declared</a> that "high standards are teachable" and fundamental to meeting ever-rising customer expectations. "Once you've tasted high standards, there's no going back," he summarized to shareholders.
Inside the company, those ideals shape everything from six-page narrative memos that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/12/36337342/jeff-bezos-reveals-why-amazon-did-away-with-powerpoint-presentations-for-a-silent-start-meeting-stra">replace PowerPoints</a> to rigorous interview loops codified this year into a public <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43930484/jeff-bezos-knew-great-hiring-was-crucial-because-he-used-to-ascertain-one-key-thing-in-interviews-now-amazon-has-dropped-6-must-know-secrets-to-landing-a-job-at-the-tech-giant-in-2025">six-step guide for applicants</a>.
Even Amazon's 2020 shareholder letter <a href="https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/company-news/2020-letter-to-shareholders">repeated</a> the 1998 refrain, where it said setting the hiring bar high "will continue to be the single most important element of Amazon.com's success."
Critics say the relentless pace <a href="https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/amazon-jeff-bezos-online-bookstore-h3s289jcs?">breeds</a> a cut-throat culture, yet Amazon's leaders counter that the same toughness powered the company's expansion from online bookstore to global logistics and cloud titan.
Read Next:
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Jeff Bezos Once Revealed Amazon Recruiters Ask These 3 Questions Because They Want To Set The Bar High: Could You Rise To The Challenge?

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