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Robert Kiyosaki recently shared his views on Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) on X, comparing them to &#8220;pictures of guns&#8221; and advocating for real assets.
On Friday, Kiyosaki shared his thoughts on ETFs. He acknowledged the ease they provide for average investors, even recommending gold, silver, and Bitcoin ETFs. However, he also issued a word of caution.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">BEWARE of PAPER I realize ETFs make investing easier for the average investor….so I do recommend ETFs for the average investor. Yet I extend these words of caution: For the average investor I recommend: Gold ETFs Silver ETFs Bitcoin ETFs Yet an ETF is like having a picture…
&mdash; Robert Kiyosaki (@theRealKiyosaki) <a href="https://twitter.com/theRealKiyosaki/status/1948640635373932683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
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He likened owning an ETF to&nbsp;having a picture of a&nbsp;gun for personal defense, emphasizing the importance of holding real assets like gold, silver, Bitcoin, and even a gun. 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43423389/robert-kiyosaki-predicts-gold-silver-bitcoin-crash-over-trumps-tariffs-says-its-a-buying-moment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Robert Kiyosaki Predicts Gold, Silver, Bitcoin Crash Over Trump's Tariffs—Says It's A Buying Moment</a>
&#8220;Know the differences when it&nbsp;is best to have real&nbsp;and when it's best to&nbsp;have paper,&#8221; Kiyosaki posted.
His post underscores the ongoing debate between owning physical assets versus their financial counterparts. While ETFs offer liquidity and ease of trading, they lack the tangible security that physical assets provide.
His advice to &#8220;know the differences&#8221; suggests the importance of understanding the unique benefits and risks associated with each type of investment. 
It also implies that a savvy investor should be able to strategically utilize both to maximize returns and safeguard their wealth.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43759418/robert-kiyosaki-predicts-wall-street-crash-and-layoffs-prepare-for-market-crash-depression-and-war">Robert Kiyosaki Predicts Wall Street Crash and Layoffs: &#8216;Prepare for Market Crash, Depression and War&#8217;</a>
Image: Shutterstock/hamdi bendali

News

Robert Kiyosaki Says ETFs Are Like Pictures of Guns, Real Assets Are Better

Donald Trump administration has been making significant investments in U.S. companies, a move not commonly seen outside of major crises or wartime. This includes taking stakes in companies and embracing state intervention in industries deemed crucial for national security.
What Happened: The Trump administration&#8217;s investments include a controversial merger between Japan&#8217;s Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel, where Trump now holds a &#8220;golden share,&#8221; giving him veto power over major business decisions.
Additionally, the Department of Defense has agreed to purchase a $400 million equity stake in rare-earth miner MP Materials, becoming the company&#8217;s largest shareholder, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/26/under-trump-us-an-active-investor-at-scale-not-seen-outside-major-crises.html">reports </a>CNBC. 
"You know who has the golden share? I do," Trump said at a summit last week. 
This level of federal support for a mining company is unprecedented, Gracelin Baskaran, who is an expert on critical minerals at the Center for Strategic and International Studies told the outlet. 
These moves indicate a shift in the Republican Party, traditionally a champion of free-market capitalism, towards state intervention in industries considered vital for national security. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46510518/trump-family-crypto-business-nabs-26-million-profit-from-quarter-billion-ethereum-stake">Trump Family Crypto Business Nabs $26 Million Profit From Quarter-Billion Ethereum Stake</a>
"This is the biggest public-private cooperation that the mining industry has ever had here in the United States. Historically, DOD has never done equity in a mining company or a mining project," Baskaran said. 
This approach is similar to nationalizing a company but without the benefits usually associated with such a move, like direct government investment.
Why It Matters: Experts suggest that this level of state intervention could be a new norm, as the Trump administration develops policies to support U.S. companies against state-backed competition from China. 
The government&#8217;s investment in MP Materials is seen as a model for future public-private partnerships.
However, the question remains&nbsp;whether state intervention can solve&nbsp;the failure of the free&nbsp;market to address national security&nbsp;concerns in industries like rare&nbsp;earths, as it could lead to&nbsp;a cascade of new market&nbsp;failures.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46508771/gen-x-voters-boost-donald-trumps-approval-rating-heres-whats-driving-it">Gen X Voters Boost Donald Trump&#8217;s Approval Rating — Here&#8217;s What&#8217;s Driving It</a>

Politics

Federal Government Becomes Major Investor Under Donald Trump, Echoing Wartime Scale

The&nbsp;U.S. Attorney for the District&nbsp;of New Jersey,&nbsp;Desiree Leigh Grace, has been dismissed by the Justice Department. 
What Happened: The Justice Department announced the termination of Desiree Leigh Grace from her position as the&nbsp;U.S. Attorney for the District&nbsp;of New Jersey. This move followed the decision of&nbsp;federal judges in the state&nbsp;to select Grace over President Donald Trump&#8216;s nominee, Alina Habba.
Earlier in March, Trump had appointed Habba as the interim U.S. Attorney for New Jersey. However, the federal judges in the state decided against making Habba the permanent top federal prosecutor, <a href="https://abcnews.go.com/US/former-trump-attorney-alina-habba-passed-permanent-us/story?id=123971287">reports</a> ABC News.
Following this decision, Attorney General&nbsp;Pam Bondi&nbsp;announced Grace&#8217;s dismissal, stating,&nbsp;&#8220;This Department of Justice does&nbsp;not tolerate rogue judges &#8212;&nbsp;especially when they threaten the&nbsp;President&#8217;s core Article II powers.&#8221;
Before her promotion, Grace had served as Habba&#8217;s first assistant. Habba, who was awaiting Senate confirmation, saw&nbsp;her 120-day term as interim&nbsp;U.S. Attorney come to an end this week.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46508771/gen-x-voters-boost-donald-trumps-approval-rating-heres-whats-driving-it">Gen X Voters Boost Donald Trump&#8217;s Approval Rating — Here&#8217;s What&#8217;s Driving It</a>
Under current law,&nbsp;district judges have the authority&nbsp;to appoint&nbsp;a United States attorney if&nbsp;the president&#8217;s nominee does not receive Senate approval within 120 days. 
It remains to be seen whether the Trump administration will&nbsp;seek Senate confirmation for Habba.
Why It Matters: This incident underscores the ongoing tension between the Trump administration and the federal judiciary. The dismissal of Grace, following her selection over Trump&#8217;s pick, highlights the administration&#8217;s assertive stance on its nomination prerogatives. 
This could potentially set a precedent for future appointments and dismissals, impacting the balance of power between the executive branch and the judiciary.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46264859/ex-trump-family-attorney-raises-alarms-over-trumps-actions-as-president-i-have-never-been-as-concerned">Ex-Trump Family Attorney Raises Alarms Over Trump&#8217;s Actions as President: &#8216;I Have Never Been As Concerned&#8217;</a>
Image: Shutterstock/Joe Tabacca

New Jersey US Attorney Fired After Being Chosen Over Former Trump Lawyer Alina Habba

He did everything right—at least on paper. Built wealth in tech. Amassed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43539942/are-you-rich-heres-what-americans-think-you-need-to-be-considered-wealthy-2">an eight-figure net worth</a>. Never drank, never smoked, stayed in shape. But now, at 53, he's looking around and realizing: he's alone. No spouse, no kids, no real sense of meaning. Just money. And regret.
"I let my life pass me by," <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Adulting/s/oCrzEjM9Ew">he wrote in a post</a> that struck a nerve with thousands on Reddit. "I worked 13 hours a day, rejected women, and built a system that's long retired. It meant nothing."
Now he watches young people give up in their twenties, and all he can feel is frustration—and envy. "It makes me sick how 23-year-old men are giving up," he wrote. "I would give it all today to be 23 again."
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He's not angry at them. He's angry at time.
"You become invisible when you get older," he said. "Even women your age don't want you."
Despite having more money than most people dream of, he admits he feels like he missed the point.
He's watched time disappear in a blur of late nights and long hours. He remembers 1994 "like yesterday," when he had just graduated and was working 13-hour shifts in a big-name finance firm. Two of his managers are now dead. The system he helped build is gone. "It meant nothing," he wrote.
Now he's facing what he calls a "lifetime of being alone." No family. No partner. Just the weight of time and a gnawing feeling that he spent decades chasing things that didn't matter. "Hope this post is a wake-up call," he said. "Too late for me."
Trending: This AI-Powered Trading Platform Has 5,000+ Users, 27 Pending Patents, and a $43.97M Valuation — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/finally-a-fully-automated-trading-platform-for-individual-investors?">You Can Become an Investor for Just $500.25</a>
But thousands of Reddit users didn't agree. Some said he was still young—53 isn't a death sentence. Others pointed out that people tend to romanticize the past. At 18, they missed being 10. At 25, they missed the freedom of 18. And at 53, it's easy to miss 23. That's how time works—no matter where you are, the last chapter always looks easier.
One user offered a perspective shift: instead of wishing you were 23 again, imagine you're 90 and just got dropped back into your 50s with a second chance. You'd probably do something with it.
Those words snapped something open: the realization that money alone can't fill the emptiness of time wasted or relationships neglected.
See Also: <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.
It echoes something Warren Buffett—now in his 90s—<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/05/45607543/warren-buffett-you-can-make-a-fortune-but-your-life-is-a-disaster-if-you-overlook-this-one-thing">once said about what true success looks like</a>:
"When you get to my age, you really measure your success … by how many of the people you want to have love you actually do love you."&nbsp;
Buffett's words cut through the noise: a big bank account is useless if your life is empty of the people you care about.
Plenty reminded him that having money and good health <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46227704/are-you-secretly-rich-heres-what-the-top-10-of-people-in-their-50s-actually-have">at 53 puts him ahead of more people</a> than he realizes. It's not over. There's still time to build something that matters—not a company or a system, but a life. A good one.&nbsp;
The real tragedy isn't being alone. It's believing you have to stay unhappy and lonely.&nbsp;
Read Next: 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>
Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

53-Year-Old Tech Millionaire Says He's Invisible, Alone, And Full Of Regret — 'I Let My Life Pass Me By. I'd Give Up Everything To Be 23 Again'

Elon Musk has made a bold prediction that artificial intelligence (AI) will increase birth rates.
Musk responded to a post on X on Saturday suggesting that the combination of technology and AI could lead to sterilization, particularly among&nbsp;those with high time preference&nbsp;and low impulse control. 
Musk disagreed, stating that AI will actually boost birth rates.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Wake up, kid, that was happening even before the Internet. US birth rate has been below replacement since ~1971, except for a split second echo of the baby boom. AI will increase birth rates in order to maximize the future light cone of neurotransmitter tonnage.
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1949043119162606023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Musk&#8217;s response came on a Tuesday, as part of a conversation about the potential impact of AI on society. He argued that the decline in birth rates predates the internet, with the US birth rate falling below replacement levels since around 1971.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44550912/elon-musk-reveals-the-one-thought-that-keeps-him-awake-at-night">Elon Musk Reveals the One Thought That Keeps Him Awake at Night</a>
Musk&#8217;s views challenge the common fear that advancing technology could lead to a decrease in population. 
Instead, he suggests that AI could be used to maximize the &#8220;future light cone of neurotransmitter&nbsp;tonnage,&#8221; potentially leading to an increase in birth rates.
While Musk&#8217;s prediction is speculative, it reflects his optimistic view of the potential benefits of AI. 
This perspective is significant given Musk&#8217;s influence in the tech industry and his role at the helm of Tesla, a company at the forefront of AI development.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46266380/ex-trump-lawyer-sent-this-message-to-elon-musk-after-feud-with-donald-trump-erupted">Ex-Trump Lawyer Sent This Message To Elon Musk After Feud With Donald Trump Erupted</a>

TSLA

Elon Musk Predicts AI 'Will Increase Birth Rates in Order To Maximize Future Light Cone of Neurotransmitter Tonnage'

President Donald Trump&#8216;s approval rating has seen a notable dip among independent voters, as indicated by a new Gallup survey.
What Happened: The <a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/692879/independents-drive-trump-approval-second-term-low.aspx?utm_source=twitterbutton&amp;utm_medium=twitter&amp;utm_campaign=sharing">poll</a>, conducted from July 7 to 21, 2025, shows a significant drop in Trump&#8217;s job approval rating among all American adults, now at 37 percent, the lowest in his second term. 
The approval rating among self-identified independent voters is even lower, standing at just 29 percent, equaling his lowest rating with this group&nbsp;in either of his terms.
Key&nbsp;issues including the federal budget,&nbsp;economy, and immigration are believed to be contributing factors to this decline. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46266316/donald-trumps-approval-rating-jumps-among-baby-boomers-heres-whats-driving-it">Donald Trump&#8217;s Approval Rating Jumps Among Baby Boomers — Here&#8217;s What&#8217;s Driving It</a>
The poll indicated&nbsp;that 73 percent of independents&nbsp;are dissatisfied with Trump&#8217;s handling of the federal budget, while 68 percent expressed disapproval&nbsp;of his handling of the&nbsp;economy.
Trump&#8217;s approach to immigration, a key part of his agenda, also failed to win over independent voters, with a mere 30 percent expressing approval.
Why It Matters: This downward trend in approval ratings could serve as a red flag&nbsp;for Republican leaders as they&nbsp;strategize for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, where they hope to maintain their hold on the House and Senate. 
The dwindling support from independent voters, often seen as the swing vote in elections, could potentially upset their plans.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45482902/poll-shows-trumps-approval-rating-underwater-on-nearly-everything-from-economy-to-abortion" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Poll Shows Trump's Approval Rating Underwater on Nearly Everything From Economy to Abortion</a>
Image: Shutterstock/Shutterstock AI

Independent Voters' Approval Rating Of Donald Trump Plummets, Latest Poll Indicates

A long-dormant Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) whale has resurfaced after more than 14 years of inactivity, moving a whopping $469.8 million in Bitcoin, as per recent on-chain data.
What Happened: A dormant Bitcoin whale wallet sprung back into action after an approximately 14.5-year hiatus. 
Blockchain tracking platform Lookonchain disclosed that the whale moved Bitcoin valued at nearly $469.8 million, having been inactive since its last transaction on January 15, 2011.
During this&nbsp;period, the price of Bitcoin&nbsp;soared from about $0.393 to $118,561, marking a remarkable&nbsp;gain of at least 30,168,093%.&nbsp;The whale had&nbsp;accumulated the Bitcoin over two&nbsp;days starting on January 13, 2011.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Update: This whale has transferred all 3,962 <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a>($468M) to a new wallet bc1qcz after being dormant for 14.5 years.<a href="https://t.co/GOp1mQk1Ih">https://t.co/GOp1mQk1Ih</a><a href="https://t.co/2vZYhjVCcp">https://t.co/2vZYhjVCcp</a> <a href="https://t.co/Dv0N34Cj1g">pic.twitter.com/Dv0N34Cj1g</a>
&mdash; Lookonchain (@lookonchain) <a href="https://twitter.com/lookonchain/status/1948350896452104660?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Prior to moving the enormous Bitcoin stash, the whale executed&nbsp;a test transaction for $218.&nbsp;Despite the wallet&#8217;s inactivity for over 14 years, it may have been subjected to dusting attacks. 
These attacks involve sending minuscule amounts of Bitcoin to a specific address in an attempt&nbsp;to de-anonymize the wallet owner.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45335892/decade-old-bitcoin-whale-emerges-transfers-207-51-million-btc-with-nearly-112000-profit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Decade-Old Bitcoin Whale Emerges, Transfers $207.51 Million BTC With Nearly 112,000% Profit</a>
This resurgence&nbsp;comes less than a month&nbsp;after two addresses made headlines&nbsp;by moving 80,000 BTC after&nbsp;being dormant since April 2011. At that&nbsp;time, Coinbase director Conor Grogan&nbsp;suggested&nbsp;that the addresses could have&nbsp;been recipients of Bitcoin stolen&nbsp;following a hack.
Earlier this week, crypto analytics&nbsp;platform Santiment reported a minimal drop in&nbsp;Bitcoin whales holding over 1,000&nbsp;BTC amid a slight decrease&nbsp;in the price of BTC.
Why It Matters: The awakening of this Bitcoin whale after such a long period of dormancy has sparked intrigue in the crypto community. 
The significant movement of Bitcoin by dormant addresses can often lead to speculation and volatility in the market. The fact that this whale accumulated Bitcoin when it was worth less than a dollar and held onto it through numerous market cycles is a testament to the long-term belief in the value of Bitcoin. 
This event also highlights the potential risks associated with dusting attacks, reminding Bitcoin holders to remain vigilant about their wallet security.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44348215/bitcoin-whale-takes-332-million-short-position-heres-where-it-gets-liquidated" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin Whale Takes $332 Million Short Position, Here&#8217;s Where It Gets Liquidated</a>

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

Cryptocurrency

Markets

$BTC

Dormant Bitcoin Whale Awakens After 14 Years, Moves $469.8 Million Worth of BTC

After losing both her husband and father within two years, Ana turned to spending as a way to cope with overwhelming grief. Travel, shopping, and dining out became temporary comforts — but they also led to $41,000 in credit card debt.
Now 37, Ana has made major financial strides. She stopped unnecessary spending, purchased her first home, and is on track to pay off a 30-year mortgage in just 15. She earns $160,000 a year and has built up $419,000 in a Roth 401(k). She also holds an inherited IRA worth $82,000 — and she&#8217;s wondering if it's wise to tap that account to wipe out her lingering debt.
Ana recently posed her question to Suze Orman on an <a href="https://omny.fm/shows/suze-ormans-women-and-money/ask-kt-suze-anything-should-i-take-money-from-an-ira-to-pay-off-credit-card-debt">episode</a> of the "Women &amp; Money" podcast, looking for an outside perspective not just on the numbers, but on the emotional weight behind her financial choices.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Financial Reality of Tapping the IRA</h2>
Orman's first reaction was clear: from a purely financial standpoint, using the inherited IRA to erase the debt doesn't make sense. Because Ana lives in California and has a relatively high income, a large portion of the IRA withdrawal would go toward taxes. Orman estimated Ana would need to withdraw $70,000 to $75,000 to net $41,000 after taxes.
"It&#8217;s going to cost you an additional $30,000 in taxes approximately to do so," Orman explained. "Makes absolutely no sense at all."
Inherited IRAs also come with a 10-year withdrawal rule, meaning Ana has until 2031 to deplete the account. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46517847/mom-says-her-sons-girlfriend-owes-4000-in-back-rent-suze-orman-tells-her-to-kick-them-both-out-you-have-30-days-to-get-out">Orman</a> encouraged her to consider spreading withdrawals over several years to minimize the tax burden and preserve more of the inherited funds.
Trending: This AI-Powered Trading Platform Has 5,000+ Users, 27 Pending Patents, and a $43.97M Valuation — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/finally-a-fully-automated-trading-platform-for-individual-investors?">You Can Become an Investor for Just $500.25</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What About the Emotional Weight?</h2>
But Orman didn't ignore the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46417602/vibe-based-budgeting-and-revenge-saving-how-emotion-based-habits-could-actually-boost-your-net-worth">emotional side</a>. She acknowledged that the debt represents more than purchases — it symbolizes grief, loss, and perhaps guilt. Orman posed a powerful question: Would eliminating the debt help Ana reclaim a sense of herself and bring closure to the pain she experienced?
Only Ana can truly answer that. Still, Orman noted that even in Ana's own words, she seemed to recognize that using the IRA in this way might mirror the emotional spending that caused the debt in the first place.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Smarter Alternatives for Paying Off Debt</h2>
Orman offered a few practical alternatives. If Ana has a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/what-is-a-good-credit-score">good credit score</a>, she could consider a 0% balance transfer credit card to reduce or eliminate interest charges. Then, with her high income, she could commit to paying off the debt aggressively — without sacrificing retirement funds.
See Also: The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?
Another option would be to withdraw small amounts from the IRA over time. For example, taking out $17,000 annually over the next few years — depending on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46509151/what-worked-for-you-5-or-10-years-ago-may-not-be-the-right-strategy-suze-orman-warns-retirees-to-rebalance-while-markets-are-up">market performance</a> and tax impact — could help reduce the debt gradually, while preserving most of the account's value.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final Takeaway</h2>
In the end, Orman left the final decision up to Ana. From a financial lens, the answer is no: paying off credit card debt using a lump-sum IRA withdrawal is inefficient and costly. But emotionally, it's more complicated. Orman urged Ana to see the debt not as a burden, but as a reminder of how far she's come — and a gift she gave herself to survive unimaginable loss.
With a strong income, solid retirement savings, and a clear commitment to change, Ana has the tools to move forward without draining the inheritance her father left behind.
Read Next: 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>
Image: Shutterstock

After Losing Her Husband And Father, She Turned To Spending — Now She's Asking Suze Orman If An Inherited IRA Can Pay Off Her $41K Debt

Sen. Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.) has been advocating for Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), asserting its importance for the U.S. economy and its citizens.
What Happened: During an interview, Lummis communicated her belief that Bitcoin is more than a speculative asset.
She said that she sees it as a form of freedom money that can improve the lives of Americans. Lummis is recognized for her efforts to mainstream Bitcoin and to clarify its regulatory status within the U.S. financial system.
Lummis suggests that Bitcoin can serve as a digital gold, facilitating transactions on a global scale. She underscored the transformative potential of cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, referring to&nbsp;it as the freedom money&nbsp;that every American requires for daily transactions.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Bitcoin is freedom money and will make life better for every American. Easier, faster, and cheaper transactions. <a href="https://t.co/pIHq6kWsU1">pic.twitter.com/pIHq6kWsU1</a>
&mdash; Senator Cynthia Lummis (@SenLummis) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenLummis/status/1948810480577073370?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
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From a wider economic perspective, Lummis contends that Bitcoin can offer protection against inflation, reduce transaction costs, and promote financial inclusivity. She also pointed out the advantages for everyday Americans, such as simpler, quicker, and more affordable transactions.
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>
In her pursuit to incorporate Bitcoin&nbsp;into the U.S. financial system,&nbsp;Lummis, along with other political figures, has recently proposed a bill. 
This bill aims to provide&nbsp;clear definitions for non-security tokens,&nbsp;tailored disclosures, and updated&nbsp;SEC oversight for cryptocurrencies, especially&nbsp;Bitcoin.
Despite recent sideways trading, market participants continue to be optimistic about Bitcoin, affirming its appeal to both retail and institutional investors.
Why It Matters: Senator Lummis&#8217; advocacy for Bitcoin underscores the growing recognition of cryptocurrencies in the political sphere. 
Her efforts to clarify regulatory guidelines and integrate Bitcoin into the U.S. financial system could potentially pave the way for wider acceptance and usage of cryptocurrencies. This could have significant implications for the U.S. economy, potentially offering protection against inflation and promoting financial inclusivity. 
The proposed bill, if passed, could provide much-needed regulatory clarity, which could further boost investor confidence in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock

Senator Lummis Champions Bitcoin as Essential: 'Freedom Money and Will Make Life Better for Every American'

A renowned cryptocurrency trader has forecasted a substantial surge for Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>).
What Happened:&nbsp;Ali Martinez, a widely followed crypto analyst, has projected a 109% rise for Dogecoin if it manages to regain a crucial support level. 
In a post on X, he shared that Dogecoin may be forming a bullish reversal pattern on the three-day chart and increase by more than 109% from its current value.
"If Dogecoin is truly forming a double bottom, this is the spot for a rebound. Reclaiming $0.26 as support could set the stage for a rally toward $0.46!" he mentioned. 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">If Dogecoin <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24DOGE&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$DOGE</a> is truly forming a double bottom, this is the spot for a rebound. Reclaiming $0.26 as support could set the stage for a rally toward $0.46! <a href="https://t.co/L9IgDef4Ia">pic.twitter.com/L9IgDef4Ia</a>
&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1948668042000347468?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2025</a></blockquote>
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The popular memecoin, currently priced at at around $0.2370, could rally to $0.46 if it successfully forms a bullish reversal pattern.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46508809/dogecoin-set-to-soar-2600-and-hit-1-trillion-market-cap-says-this-crypto-analyst">Dogecoin Set To Soar 2,600% and Hit $1 Trillion Market Cap, Says This Crypto Analyst</a>
Dogecoin continues to rank among the world's top cryptocurrencies, currently sitting at 8th place with a market valuation exceeding $35.6 billion. 
In another post he mentioned that Dogecoin is back in a range that has historically served as a buying zone, triggering major bull runs. 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Dogecoin <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24DOGE&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$DOGE</a> is back in a range that has historically served as a buying zone, triggering major bull runs! <a href="https://t.co/bzHM1K4zBf">pic.twitter.com/bzHM1K4zBf</a>
&mdash; Ali (@ali_charts) <a href="https://twitter.com/ali_charts/status/1948988654430327062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2025</a></blockquote>
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In the past 24 hours alone, it has seen over $2.27 billion in trading activity—signaling robust market engagement and high liquidity, even in the face of recent price fluctuations.
Martinez also forecasted a potential 55% rise for Avalanche if it can turn&nbsp;the $27 level into support.&nbsp;The layer-1 blockchain is presently trading at $23.22.
Why It Matters: These predictions come at a time when the cryptocurrency market is experiencing significant volatility. The potential rallies for these altcoins could indicate a broader bullish trend in the crypto market. 
Investors and traders will be closely watching these developments, as they could significantly impact the value of their holdings. 
The predictions also underscore the increasing influence and acceptance of memecoins in the crypto market. 
However, as with any investment, potential investors should conduct thorough research and consider the inherent risks associated with investing in cryptocurrencies.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock/alfernec

$DOGE

Dogecoin Is Back in Historic Buying Zone That Triggered Bull Runs — Is It a Good Time To Buy?

A 33-year-old woman with no debt, a stable income, and even a paid-off master's degree <a href="https://youtu.be/MnQJxBaJ7_U?si=tRWe6lKQmLr-YpcS">called into "The Ramsey Show"</a>—not for advice on what to fix, but to ask a more haunting question: Why does it feel like I'm still losing at life?
Despite earning $60,000 a year, owning a home with just $140,000 left on the mortgage, and having no other debt, the caller—Hillary—admitted, "I just see a lot of people my age or younger bragging and boasting about their nice cars, houses, and vacations, and I just feel like I'm losing at life."
Rather than rush to soothe her, Dave Ramsey got right to the root of what he believes is fueling that discontent.
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"This is the problem," Ramsey said. "The millennial, your generation, was one of the first ones to really, really struggle with it."
He was referring to the social media comparison trap—a constant bombardment of filtered, curated glimpses into the seemingly perfect lives of others.
Ramsey explained that in the past, people compared themselves to the Joneses—neighbors with real, visible lives. You saw the new car in the driveway, sure, "but you also saw them have big fights, and you also knew that their kids were messed up."
"But on social media," he warned, "you're only thing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/01/43011673/dave-ramsey-says-stop-trying-to-keep-up-with-the-joneses-theyre-broke-warns-people-are-fake-rich-average-household-debt-is-175075">you're looking at is the highlight reel</a>… Nobody posts on there, ‘My husband just got me a 1992 Honda. #Blessed.'"
Even the exotic vacations people post about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/45750505/broke-people-love-to-give-financial-advice-says-dave-ramsey-theyre-scared-youll-outpace-them-by-doing-smart-things-with-money">don't necessarily tell the full story</a>. Hillary mentioned hearing coworkers mention trips to the Bahamas and brand-new Escalades, which left her questioning her own choices.
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But Ramsey was quick to set the record straight.
"That Escalade is actually really an amazing car… and 99% chance <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44752907/dave-ramsey-says-if-you-want-to-know-what-driving-a-new-car-really-costs-open-your-car-window-once-a-week-and-toss-out-a-100-bill">that's not real money that bought that</a>."
In fact, had Hillary simply called in and said, "I'm a 33-year-old single female, I make 60 grand, I only have $120,000 left on a house I bought myself," Ramsey said the reaction would've been pure celebration.
"We would be going, touchdown! We would celebrate you as like the model," he told her. "I hope my daughter Josephine is in that kind of situation… You're amazing. You've done a great job. You're doing it right."
Co-host John Delony chimed in, likening Hillary's comparison dilemma to indie filmmaking: "You're the indie filmmaker and all you have is a camera and you're telling real stories, and you can't compete with the Godzilla movies that are made in computer labs."
Hillary admitted she had also just paid cash for her master's degree—something she confessed had her second-guessing the trade-off. "All that money I had saved, I'm just like, that could have been a vacation or a car. I shouldn't have done that."
But Ramsey wasn't having it.
"Dude, you just put an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/45980923/study-says-college-has-higher-roi-than-stocks-but-only-if-you-follow-these-rules-suze-orman-says">investment in yourself for the next 50 years</a> of your life. You traded a master's degree for Bahamas. This is a good trade."
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>
He shared a personal story to drive the point home. At 28, Ramsey was driving a Jaguar—and went broke. What followed was a season of driving a "hooptie," including a beat-up loaner car that was 90% Bondo with a torn vinyl roof that "filled up with air like a parachute" when he drove.
"I used to have to pull up in those hoopties… Meanwhile I'm sitting next to people in nice cars that just got home from the Bahamas, and I'm looking at them going, what am I doing wrong?"
But perspective changed everything.
"Today, if you did that… the average car payment at that stoplight is $750."
As the call wrapped up, Delony offered Hillary a final insight: beneath all the comparison, maybe the real issue was something deeper.
"How much of these videos you're seeing… are reinforcing a sense of loneliness?"
"Probably a lot," Hillary admitted. "Because I feel like they just can go do whatever, you know?"
Delony's advice was simple: "Start creating opportunities to have friends and community and connection and laughter right where you live… and it's going to make the other shiny stuff… not be that big a deal."
Because no matter what TikTok or Instagram tells you, success isn't about Escalades or beach resorts. Sometimes, it's just about being 33, debt-free, and already winning—even if you don't feel like it.
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

33-Year-Old With $60K Income And No Debt Says She Feels Like She's 'Losing At Life' — Dave Ramsey Blames 'Problem' On Her Generation

President Donald Trump touched down in Scotland on Friday evening for a private four-day visit, marking his return to a country where he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46647776/us-may-ditch-trade-negotiations-with-canada-trump-says-havent-really-had-a-lot-of-luck" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">has long-standing personal and business ties</a>.
Trump arrived at Prestwick Airport shortly before 8:30 p.m. local time and was greeted by Ian Murray, the UK&#8217;s Secretary of State for Scotland, and Warren Stephens, U.S. Ambassador to the UK, BBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy8g8w431wyo" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
Trump headed straight to his Turnberry golf resort in South Ayrshire, where he is expected to spend the weekend.
Trump said &#8220;it&#8217;s great to be in Scotland&#8221; as he arrived for a four-day private visit.
Also Read:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46647448/us-cant-meet-its-own-beef-demand-let-alone-export-so-much-to-australia-say-traders-after-trumps-boast-not-going-to-be-selling-anything" rel="noreferrer noopener"> US Can&#8217;t Meet Its Own Beef Demand, Let Alone Export &#8216;So Much&#8217; To Australia, Say Traders After Trump&#8217;s Boast: &#8216;Not Going To Be Selling Anything…&#8217;</a>
Speaking to the press, he expressed admiration for UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, stating the newly agreed trade deal was &#8220;a win&#8221; for the UK. He noted, &#8220;They&#8217;ve been working on this deal for 12 years, he got it done &#8211; that&#8217;s a good deal, it&#8217;s a good deal for the UK.&#8221;
Trump also praised First Minister John Swinney of Scotland ahead of their meeting, which will take place Monday.
Swinney, in response, said he plans to address key issues like trade opportunities and international humanitarian crises, including the Gaza conflict. He also encouraged protesters to demonstrate lawfully and peacefully.
Trump will spend time at his property in Aberdeenshire after Turnberry, where he plans to inaugurate a new 18-hole course at Menie.
He credited the late actor Sean Connery with helping navigate the bureaucratic process to secure permits for the development, calling his support instrumental.
While discussing energy policy, Trump took aim at wind farms, claiming they degrade natural landscapes and harm wildlife.
He referenced his failed legal challenge from 2019, when a Scottish court upheld the installation of wind turbines near his Menie course, a project he had opposed for aesthetic reasons.
Turning to migration, Trump described illegal immigration in Europe as an &#8220;invasion,&#8221; and said the continent faces cultural and economic risks if current policies continue.
He contrasted that with what he claimed were recent successes in U.S. border control under his influence, accusing President Joe Biden of weakening the system.
When questioned about the recently surfaced Epstein documents and Ghislaine Maxwell&#8217;s Department of Justice interview, Trump dismissed the topic, saying the media overblew it and that it was &#8220;not the time&#8221; to discuss potential pardons.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves called the visit a &#8220;tangible benefit,&#8221; highlighting its economic benefits to Scotland, from Scotch whisky exports to defense partnerships.
The visit comes ahead of an official state reception in September, when King Charles will host Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at Windsor Castle.
Though rare, visits by sitting American presidents to Scotland have occurred before.
Trump himself visited in 2018 and again in 2023 following his electoral defeat.
His return also has a personal dimension—Trump&#8217;s mother, Mary Anne MacLeod, hailed from the Isle of Lewis in Scotland&#8217;s Outer Hebrides before emigrating to the U.S. during the Great Depression.
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General

'Great To Be in Scotland': Trump Kicks Off Golf-Filled Getaway

Is a stock that's worth $100 per share cheap or overvalued? You can't arrive at an answer just with the stock price. Investors have to review various data points before determining if a stock is fairly valued at its current price.&nbsp;
Financial guru Humphrey Yang recently shared what goes into <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@humphreytalks/video/7527353321313651998?lang=en">valuing a stock</a> and used Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) as examples.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Stock Price Means Nothing</h2>
Yang mentioned that Nvidia trades at a lower price per share than Tesla. However, that doesn't mean Tesla is worth more than Nvidia. He told his audience to look at a stock's market cap to determine the company's value. Nvidia's market cap exceeds $4 trillion, while Tesla only has a $1 trillion market cap.
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Nvidia is valued at more than four times Tesla's valuation, even though Nvidia trades at a lower price per share than Tesla. That's because Nvidia has more shares in circulation than Tesla. The market cap measures the number of shares in circulation times the trade price. For instance, if there are 10 billion shares in circulation of a stock that is valued at $8 per share, then the company would have a market cap of $80 billion.
Yang revealed that Tesla has 3.210 billion shares in circulation, while Nvidia has 24.49 billion shares in circulation. The large difference in the amount of shares in circulation explains why Nvidia has a lower stock price than Tesla, despite the difference in market caps.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Does The Market Cap Tell The Entire Story?</h2>
You will need more than a company's market cap to assess if a stock presents a good buying opportunity. The market cap simply helps you gauge the percentage of ownership you have in a company. If you have a $1 million position in a company that is worth $100 million, you have a 1% stake in that position. However, you're more likely to have a microscopic stake in a publicly-traded corporation, especially the companies with market caps above $1 trillion.
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You have to look at a company's tailwinds. For instance, Nvidia is poised to benefit immensely from the rising demand for artificial intelligence. Tesla faces some obstacles if the demand for its electric vehicles continues to wane, but significant revenue growth from robotaxis and humanoid robots are catalysts worth monitoring.
Investors also have to look at a company's financial strength. Revenue and net income growth rates are vital for gauging if a stock's valuation makes sense. You can then compare a stock with its peers by assessing metrics like financial growth rates, P/E ratios, and PEG ratios. For instance, it would make sense for investors to compare Nvidia with Broadcom (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) and Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>). It makes zero sense to compare Nvidia to a bank stock since they have different opportunities and growth trajectories.&nbsp;
See Also: <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.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Index Funds And ETFs Make Investing Easier</h2>
It takes a lot of research and conviction to pick individual stocks and outperform the stock market. You have to review various metrics and know key details about the companies you buy.&nbsp;
However, you can also take a simpler route and buy shares in an index fund that tracks a benchmark like the S&amp;P 500. These funds have low expense ratios since they aren't actively managed, and they have the potential to multiply your money in the long run.
Investors can also consider a mix of individual stocks and ETFs instead of committing to a single type of asset. That way, you have a diversified portfolio that leans into a particular group of stocks.
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Image: Shutterstock

AVGO

NVDA

Stock Prices Don't Tell the Story—Here's What Humphrey Yang Says You Should Focus On Instead

The CEO of&nbsp;JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>),&nbsp;Jamie Dimon, recently shared a personal anecdote about the day he was fired from Citigroup Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>) and the impact it had on his family and career.
What Happened: Dimon was unexpectedly asked to resign from his position at Citigroup in 1998, where he was the President, a moment that he described as a turning point in his career, during the Acquired Podcast last week.
Dimon was hosting potential candidates at his New York City apartment on a Sunday afternoon when he was summoned for a meeting with Citigroup&#8217;s Sandy Weill and John Reed. The executives asked Dimon to resign amidst some structural changes to the team, a decision that initially made no sense to him.
During the podcast, Dimon recalled how he broke the news to&nbsp;his wife and three young&nbsp;daughters at home, who were 14, 12, and 10 at the time. &#8220;Daddy&#8230;do we have to sleep on the streets?&#8221; asked his youngest daughter, to which Dimon said, &#8220;No, no, we&#8217;re we&#8217;re okay.&#8221;&nbsp;
The middle daughter asked if she could continue going to college, while the eldest one asked for Dimon&#8217;s phone, saying &#8220;Great. Since you don&#8217;t need it, can I have your cell phone?
Following his dismissal, Dimon&#8217;s apartment was filled&nbsp;with about 50 senior managers&nbsp;from Citibank to mark&nbsp;his departure. 
&#8220;I tell people it was my net worth, not my self-worth, that was involved,&#8221; said the JPMorgan CEO.
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46612914/bitcoin-could-go-to-300000-before-great-depression-crisis-traders-argue" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin Could Go To $300,000 Before &#8216;Great Depression&#8217; Crisis, Traders Argue &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Why It Matters: Dimon&#8217;s career trajectory has been marked by notable turning points. After his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46511576/jamie-dimon-reveals-a-coffee-table-chat-with-jeff-bezos-in-1999-that-almost-made-him-never-wear-a-suit-againlive-on-a-houseboat">dismissal </a>from Citigroup, Dimon had a close encounter with the tech industry. In 1999, he had a conversation with Amazon.com Inc.&#8216;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) Jeff Bezos that nearly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46511576/jamie-dimon-reveals-a-coffee-table-chat-with-jeff-bezos-in-1999-that-almost-made-him-never-wear-a-suit-againlive-on-a-houseboat">swayed him </a>away from Wall Street. However, Dimon later invested half of his net worth in Bank One, purchasing $60 million in stock, a move that paved the way for JPMorgan&#8217;s top job.
Dimon&#8217;s early experiences in the stock market also shaped his approach to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46488893/at-14-jamie-dimon-owned-his-first-stock-watched-a-45-market-crash-only-to-learn-this-investment-lesson-history-does-rhyme">risk management</a>. At 14, he bought his first stock and witnessed a 45% market crash within two years, a lesson that taught him to always factor in invisible risks.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"> 
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="The Jamie Dimon Interview: How JP Morgan Became an $800 Billion Bank" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AR_1IPhzAtU?start=2124&#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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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

AMZN

When Jamie Dimon's Daughter Asked If They Have To 'Sleep On Streets' After He Was Fired From Citigroup: 'It Was My Net Worth, Not My Self-Worth...'

This summer, millions of Americans are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/45839291/travelers-plan-to-spend-4600-on-vacations-this-summer-up-16-from-2024">planning trips</a> — and a growing number are using buy now, pay later services to help cover the cost. These short-term installment loans, offered by companies like Klarna and Affirm, are being used to pay for flights, hotels, cruises, and even event tickets.
According to a NerdWallet <a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/travel/2025-summer-travel-report">survey</a>, 18% of summer travelers planned to use BNPL this year. Klarna reported a 50% year-over-year jump in travel bookings, and Affirm (AFRM:NASDAQ)&nbsp; said its travel-related volume rose 38% in late 2024, topping $1 billion.
While BNPL may seem appealing — especially when it comes with no upfront costs or interest — experts caution that it's not always a smart choice.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">It's Not Just Luxury Travel Anymore</h2>
BNPL was once associated with high-end purchases, but that's changing. Andrew Lokenauth, founder of TheFinanceNewsletter.com, told <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/23/using-bnpl-for-travel-more-are-using-it-especially-gen-z-travelers.html">CNBC</a> that many of his clients now use BNPL to pay for basic travel, such as visiting family or attending weddings.
"It's not just luxury vacations anymore," he said. "I've worked with over 100 clients drowning in BNPL travel debt, and it's not pretty."
BNPL loans typically have zero flexibility — miss a payment, and you might face late fees or damage to your <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46510561/fico-to-roll-out-new-scores-to-reflect-your-buy-now-pay-later-habits-impacting-millions-of-americans-credit">credit score</a>. Even Affirm, which doesn't charge late fees, began reporting pay-over-time products to credit bureaus this year.
Trending: This AI-Powered Trading Platform Has 5,000+ Users, 27 Pending Patents, and a $43.97M Valuation — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/finally-a-fully-automated-trading-platform-for-individual-investors?">You Can Become an Investor for Just $500.25</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Debt Can Outlast the Trip</h2>
The biggest risk with BNPL travel financing is that the fun may end, but the debt lingers. NerdWallet found that 30% of travelers who used credit cards for summer travel in 2024 still haven't paid off their balances. The average credit card interest rate, according to the <a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/TERMCBCCINTNS">Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis</a>, is over 22%.
BNPL doesn't charge interest in many cases, but it can still lead to overextension. A recent Consumer Finance Protection Bureau <a href="https://files.consumerfinance.gov/f/documents/cfpb_BNPL_Report_2025_01.pdf">report</a> found that 63% of BNPL borrowers had more than one loan at a time — also known as "loan stacking" — at some point in 2021 and 2022.
Disney vacation planner Jackie Steele said he's seen more clients use BNPL to pay for Disney trips, sometimes to make last-minute travel happen or to upgrade their experience. "I always caution people — especially younger adults or families on tight budgets — to look beyond the monthly breakdown," he told CNBC.
See Also: 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>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Use Caution and Have a Backup Plan</h2>
Some travelers say <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45139105/more-americans-are-using-buy-now-pay-later-loans-to-pay-for-groceries-and-falling-behind">BNPL</a> made their trips possible. One traveler told CNBC she used it to book a last-minute trip to Miami, calling it a "lifesaver." But when she missed one payment reminder, she was hit with extra fees.
Some experts say that BNPL can work if used wisely. Fiserv Head of Embedded Finance Sunil Sachdev told CNBC that the service has matured in recent years and, so far, hasn't resulted in widespread defaults.
Still, Lokenauth doesn't sugarcoat it: "If you can't pay for a vacation outright, you probably shouldn't take it."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Smart Alternatives for Summer Travel</h2>
Before reaching for BNPL, consider alternatives. According to NerdWallet, 91% of travelers are already looking for ways to save — such as using credit card points or choosing budget hotels.
"Travel rewards aren't fine wine — they don't get better with age," NerdWallet spokesperson Sally French says. "In fact, with airlines and hotels constantly tweaking their loyalty programs to a level that's usually not in your favor, your points could be worth less next summer than they are right now."
No matter your destination this summer, planning ahead — and paying responsibly — can help you avoid turning your dream vacation into a long-term debt burden.
Read Next: 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>
Image: Shutterstock

'If You Can't Pay For The Trip, You Shouldn't Take It': Expert Warns Against Buy Now, Pay Later Travel Trend

Most people think becoming a police officer comes with a steady paycheck, maybe a pension, and the kind of stability that helps build a future. But one 31-year-old cop from Philadelphia says he's barely treading water — <a href="https://youtu.be/8GTrcB5_dXk?si=YSaFYdxV6Nw-Hz3F">buried under $451,000 in debt and living on just $40,000</a> a year after deductions.
"I bring in $70,000 a year, but after pension and everything else is taken out, it's more like $40,000," Mike <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/07/46382396/dave-ramseys-shortest-call-in-show-history-came-from-a-20-year-listener-with-211k-cash-and-a-mortgag">told "The Ramsey Show."</a> His debt load includes $252,000 in student loans and $185,000 from a mortgage he said he took on for emotional reasons.
"I purchased the house in September. My father passed in July," he explained. "It was across the street from his house. It was the last conversation we had — he really wanted me to get it." Since he had just purchased the home, there was no equity in it, so selling wasn't really on the table.
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Host Dave Ramsey didn't waste time easing into it. "You bought things you couldn't afford with money you didn't have — both under the influence of your parents," he said. "You make $70K a year, and you're so far in debt you can't breathe."&nbsp;
Mike's massive student loan balance came from attending a private university, initially for finance. He later switched majors to criminal justice and eventually earned a master's degree — which didn't do much for his career prospects in law enforcement.
"My mother wanted me to go to that school," he admitted.
"Well," Ramsey replied, "you're 31. You're going to have to love your parents without letting them dictate your financial life."
Mike lives with his girlfriend and her daughter, but they aren't married. She's studying to become a nurse practitioner and reportedly earns around $89,000 a year — but she's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43768530/should-married-couples-split-expenses-dave-ramsey-says-no-youre-married-not-roommates">not interested in discussing finances</a>.
"She said she's too busy with school and doesn't want to worry about that right now," Mike said.
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That drew a sharp warning from Ramsey: "If you're not on the same page about money, you're not ready to be on the same page about marriage. The number one cause of divorce is money fights and money problems. You already see it when you go on domestic calls."
Even if the relationship does move toward marriage, Ramsey told Mike the numbers still don't work. "You <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/07/46265990/dave-ramsey-calls-58-year-old-with-1-million-in-her-401-k-a-victim-of-the-real-estate-market-for-cho">cannot afford a $185,000 house</a> making $70,000 a year — especially not alone," he said. "That house is in your name, not hers. And right now, you can't afford it."
After breaking down the debt and income mismatch, Ramsey offered a clear short-term goal: boost income fast.
"You need side work," he said. "Security gigs outside your department pay $40 to $50 an hour. That's what it's going to take to dig out."
For anyone in Mike's position — overwhelmed by six-figure student debt, a mortgage they may not be able to afford, and a household with separate finances — there are a few non-financial-advice takeaways:
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>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Re-evaluate the house: If you're not married and the house is solely in your name, you're the one on the hook. Downsizing or renting could relieve pressure — even temporarily.</li>
<li>Don't count other people's income: If you're not legally tied, you can't build your budget around someone else's paycheck.</li>
<li>Increase income by any means: Overtime, second jobs, contracting, or monetizing skills — it doesn't have to be forever, but it has to start somewhere.</li>
<li>Have hard conversations early: If a partner refuses to talk about debt, that's a red flag. Financial compatibility is real — and necessary.</li>
</ul>
Ramsey offered to enroll Mike and his girlfriend in Financial Peace University, but the bigger question loomed: Would they take the next step together, or would the silence around money keep digging the hole deeper?
"You're heading straight at the wall with the accelerator on the floor," Ramsey told him. "You have to turn the wheel."
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

31-Year-Old Philly Police Officer Is $451,000 in Debt and Brings Home Just $40K — Dave Ramsey Warns 'You're Heading Straight at the Wall'

Last week, former White House Communications Director Anthony Scaramucci offered a surprising assessment of Donald Trump, calling his political comeback historic and cautioning critics not to confuse his communication style with a lack of intelligence.
What Happened: In a video posted to his YouTube channel, Scaramucci—who once described working for Trump as the "biggest mistake" of his life—expressed his stance on the president's intellect and political savvy.
"If you think the president is stupid, you don't know the president," Scaramucci said. "He may talk like a fifth grader … but he's a very smart and very clever guy."
Scaramucci, who briefly served as Trump's White House communications director in 2017, suggested Trump may struggle with conditions like dyslexia or ADHD but compensates with heightened situational awareness.
He also praised Trump's political strategy, saying, "He understands this trick—the trick is to tell the big lie and to repeat the big lie and to create a mantra and narrative around it."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46265725/elon-musk-announces-formation-of-america-party-emerges-in-wake-of-donald-trumps-historic-spending-bill" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Announces Formation of ‘America Party' Emerges in Wake of Donald Trump's Historic Spending Bill</a>
Calling Trump's return to the White House "the greatest comeback in political history," Scaramucci noted, "He went from being a reality television star and a moderately successful real estate developer to the American presidency in 18 months—and he just reascended to the presidency."
<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="Donald Trump is Not Dumb I Anthony Scaramucci" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ap7aK5klJ-M?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>
Why It's Important: While Scaramucci has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45253032/anthony-scaramucci-gives-donald-trump-b-or-a-on-crypto-but-warns-presidential-meme-coin-defi-project-risk-derailing-policy-progress">commended Trump</a> for advancing digital asset regulation and establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve without taxpayer funding, he has also criticized several aspects of Trump&#8217;s presidency, including tariffs and economic decisions.
He strongly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44602870/anthony-scaramucci-hates-it-when-trump-pumps-his-own-coin-but-loves-the-presidents-bitcoin-moves-this-complex-crypto-relationship-decoded">condemned the launch</a> of Trump's official meme coin, the Official Trump (CRYTO: TRUMP), calling it "Idi Amin-level corruption" and likening a related Truth Social post to a market "pump."
Scaramucci also joined others in questioning the timing of Trump's crypto-related announcements, suggesting possible manipulation.
Despite his political criticisms, Scaramucci holds substantial crypto investments, with over 55% of his net worth in Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and a significant stake in Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>).
Earlier this year, Scaramucci also said that his brief 11-day stint in the White House during Trump's first term rekindled his interest in Bitcoin.
A July 2025 <a href="https://fortune.com/2025/07/02/anthony-scaramuccis-mooch-cryptocurrency-donald-trump/">report</a> by Fortune said that, as per sources, Scaramucci's net worth is estimated to be between $150 million and $200 million, largely tied to volatile crypto assets.
His wealth stems from personal investments and management fees through SkyBridge Capital, which had $2.6 billion in assets at the end of 2024. He also earns royalties from several books, including The Little Book of Hedge Funds.
While some in the crypto industry criticize his financial expertise, others, like SALT CEO John Darsie, credit Scaramucci for strategic pivots that saved SkyBridge—such as shifting from hedge-fund seeding to a fund-of-funds model via a Citi acquisition in 2010 and moving heavily into crypto in 2020.
Earlier this week, Scaramucci also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/07/46516846/anthony-scaramucci-says-lets-spend-as-he-backs-trumps-big-spending-plan-but-only-if-one-rule-is-met">voiced support for Trump's</a> infrastructure-focused spending—if it creates long-term economic value—calling for "Big, Beautiful Spending" with a real multiplier effect, like Boston's "Big Dig."
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Photo Courtesy: Al Teich On Shutterstock.com
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

$SOL

Anthony Scaramucci May Not Have Seen Eye-To-Eye With Trump On Crypto, But Called His Second Term, 'The Greatest Comeback In Political History'

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) has been one of the most active stock investors from the political fraternity, and several of her trades have received significant media attention.
What happened: The lawmaker has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46620387/marjorie-taylor-greene-increases-these-2-stocks-in-portfolio-including-this-ai-name-up-over-100-ytd">expanded her portfolio with stocks</a> from several large-cap companies, including Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Class B (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>). Greene <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44723570/marjorie-taylor-greene-buys-the-dip-congresswoman-purchases-shares-of-apple-amazon-nike-and-more-fol">purchased Berkshire Hathaway Class B shares</a>, with a reported value range between $1,001 and $15,000, on April 4.&nbsp;
The congressperson bought the market dip, precipitated by President Donald Trump's sweeping tariff measures. The stock had slipped more than 8% over the previous two days.
But if the idea was to accumulate the stock before it began a sustained rally, that hasn&#8217;t precisely happened.&nbsp;
While shares rebounded on easing tariff measures, the upsurge was short-lived. After hitting yearly highs of $539.80, BRK.B reversed course and went on to slide below $500. Since the purchase, the shares have been down 2.62%
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44621245/gold-backed-cryptos-match-yellow-metals-highs-following-trumps-liberation-day-shock"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46620387/marjorie-taylor-greene-increases-these-2-stocks-in-portfolio-including-this-ai-name-up-over-100-ytd">Marjorie Taylor Greene Increases These 2 Stocks In Portfolio, Including This AI Name Up Over 100% YTD</a>
Let's assume instead of Warren Buffett's high-profile holding company, the Republican would have chosen to buy Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), the world's largest cryptocurrency. Since we don't know the exact amount invested, let&#8217;s go with the top range.
A $15,000 investment in Berkshire Hathaway Class B stock would have been reduced to $14,607.On the other, a $15,000 investment in Bitcoin on the same date would now be worth $20,700.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Asset</td>
<td>Price (Recorded on April 4, 2025)</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 2:52 a.m. ET)</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Berkshire Hathaway Class B</td>
<td>$493.54</td>
<td>$480.60</td>
<td>-2.6%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin</td>
<td>$83,100</td>
<td>$115,370.79</td>
<td>+38.83%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The BRK.B stock exhibited a very high Growth score but lagged in Momentum as of this writing. Use Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings to see how it compares to &#8221;Mag 7&#8221; equities.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="433" height="192" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/25034912/image-383.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1000244" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/25034912/image-383.png 433w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/25034912/image-383-300x133.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 433px) 100vw, 433px" /></a></figure>
Notably, Greene was ranked 23rd&nbsp;among members of Congress <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46620387/marjorie-taylor-greene-increases-these-2-stocks-in-portfolio-including-this-ai-name-up-over-100-ytd">who made stock transactions based on a return of</a> +30.2% in 2024.
However, her trades have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/politics/25/04/44852406/marjorie-taylor-greene-brushes-off-stock-buying-criticism-says-portfolio-manager-bought-the-dip">drawn scrutiny</a>, particularly for well-timed stock purchases around market events, such as those before and after Trump&#8217;s tariff pause announcement. Greene has dismissed the criticism as &#8220;laughable.&#8221;
Read Next:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46612914/bitcoin-could-go-to-300000-before-great-depression-crisis-traders-argue">Bitcoin Could Go To $300,000 Before &#8216;Great Depression&#8217; Crisis, Traders Argue</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Marjorie Taylor Greene's Berkshire Hathaway Investment Falters After She Bought The Shares At April Lows — What If She Had Chosen Bitcoin Instead?

Each week, Benzinga&#8217;s Stock Whisper Index uses a combination of proprietary data and pattern recognition to showcase five stocks that are just under the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/stock-whisper-index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface and deserve attention</a>.
Investors are constantly on the hunt for undervalued, under-followed and emerging stocks. With countless methods available to retail traders, the challenge often lies in sifting through the abundance of information to uncover new opportunities and understand why certain stocks should be of interest.
Read Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/46157351/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-71" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: June's 20 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro — Where Do CoreWeave, Nvidia, Apple Stock Rank?</a>
Here's a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending July 25:
Ensign Group (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENSG#NASDAQ">ENSG</a>): The healthcare services company saw strong interest from readers during the week after reporting second-quarter financial results. The company beat analyst estimates for both revenue and earnings per share. Ensign Group also raised full-year guidance for both earnings per share and revenue after the report.
"Our local teams achieved another outstanding quarter, raising the bar again for what is possible, even in a quarter where we historically have experienced more seasonality. The clinical results they achieved continue to be the primary driver of our success," Ensign CEO Barry Port said.
The company saw strong results for its same store occupancy and also acquired new operations that Port said will help with "long-term upside." Ensign's portfolio consists of 348 healthcare operations, including 31 that are also senior living operations, in 17 states. The company owns 146 real estate assets, with 110 being operated by an Ensign affiliate.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0725"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="508" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181428/Screenshot-512.png" alt="" class="wp-image-999817" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181428/Screenshot-512.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181428/Screenshot-512-300x153.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181428/Screenshot-512-768x391.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>
IonQ Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IONQ#NYSE">IONQ</a>): The quantum computing sector continues to be hot for investors and IonQ was searched by an increased number of readers during the week. The company <a href="https://investors.ionq.com/news/news-details/2025/IonQ-Expands-Across-APAC-Through-Strategic-Collaboration-With-Australian-Company-Emergence-Quantum/default.aspx">announced </a>a new collaboration with Emergence Quantum to co-develop electronics and materials. IonQ said the partnership will help the company's global expansion roadmap and help Australia's quantum capabilities. Investors are likely eagerly awaiting the company's second-quarter financial results set for Aug. 6. Analysts expect the company to report a loss of 27 cents per share. IonQ has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in three of the last five quarters. Investors expect the company to report quarterly revenue of $17.23, which would be a record. The company has beaten analyst estimates for revenue in more than 10 straight quarters. Recent <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/IONQ/analyst-ratings">analyst activity </a>saw Cantor Fitzgerald initiate the stock with an Overweight rating and price target of $45 and Benchmark maintain a Buy rating and raise the price target from $50 to $55.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0725"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="497" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181442/Screenshot-513.png" alt="" class="wp-image-999819" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181442/Screenshot-513.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181442/Screenshot-513-300x150.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181442/Screenshot-513-768x383.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>
Brinker International (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EAT#NYSE">EAT</a>): The restaurant company that owns Chili's and other brands saw increased interest from readers during the week. The company has received <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EAT/analyst-ratings">mixed ratings from analysts</a> during the month of July with mostly Neutral and Equal-Weight ratings. Most analysts have been raising their price targets on the restaurant company. Brinker will report fourth-quarter financial results in August. Analysts predict the company will show increased earnings per share and revenue on a year-over-year basis. The company has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in nine of the last 10 quarters and beaten estimates for revenue in seven of the last 10 quarters.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0725"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="502" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181457/Screenshot-514.png" alt="" class="wp-image-999820" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181457/Screenshot-514.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181457/Screenshot-514-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181457/Screenshot-514-768x386.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>
PulteGroup Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PHM#NYSE">PHM</a>): The homebuilder company saw strong interest during the week and shares up over 5% after reporting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/07/46543464/pultegroup-posts-solid-earnings-but-revenue-misses-whats-next-for-the-homebuilder">second-quarter financial results</a>. The company beat analyst estimates for earnings per share and narrowly missed a consensus revenue estimate of $4.41 billion with $4.40 billion reported. The company reported 7,639 homes closed and net new orders of 7,083. The company's unit backlog was 10,779 at the end of the quarter. Multiple analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/price-target/25/07/46581345/pultegroup-analysts-increase-their-forecasts-after-better-than-expected-q2-earnings">raised their price targets </a>on the stock after the report with optimism for the company's second half of 2025 outlook.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0725"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1001" height="498" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181512/Screenshot-515.png" alt="" class="wp-image-999821" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181512/Screenshot-515.png 1001w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181512/Screenshot-515-300x149.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181512/Screenshot-515-768x382.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1001px) 100vw, 1001px" /></a></figure>
Hims &amp; Hers Health (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>): The telehealth company saw strong interest from readers during the week. Shares traded lower in June after the company announced it would no longer be working with Novo Nordisk, losing direct access to Wegovy. Shares have <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/07/46586702/whats-going-on-with-hims-hers-stock-wednesday">rebounded in July </a>ahead of the company's second-quarter earnings report set for Aug. 4. Analysts expect the company to report quarterly earnings per share of 15 cents, up from 6 cents per share in last year's second quarter. The company has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in six straight quarters and nine of the last 10 quarters overall. Analysts expect the company to report quarterly revenue of $549.8 million, up from $315.7 million in last year's second quarter. The company has beaten analyst estimates for revenue in more than 10 straight quarters. While this figure would be a beat, it would mark the first time the company didn't grow revenue on a quarter-over-quarter basis in some time. Truist recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HIMS/analyst-ratings">maintained a Hold rating</a> on the stock and increased the price target from $45 to $48. Shares remain up over 100% year-to-date in 2025.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0725"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="503" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181526/Screenshot-516.png" alt="" class="wp-image-999822" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181526/Screenshot-516.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181526/Screenshot-516-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/24181526/Screenshot-516-768x388.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>
Stay tuned for next week&#8217;s report, and follow Benzinga Pro for all the latest headlines and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0725" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>
Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46264224/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-72" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">July 4</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46381556/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-73" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">July 11</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46508365/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-74">July 18</a></li>
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Benzinga's 'Stock Whisper' Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don't Talk About Yet

Imagine this: a hospital conference room, lights low, filled with decision-makers. A sales representative clicks through slides driven by Palantir Technologies&#8217; (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) Foundry platform, highlighting real-time data integration and pinpoint analytics that would <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46640145/how-palantir-tempus-nvidia-backed-recursion-are-disrupting-big-pharma">make Pharma R&amp;D from the past</a> look like it&#8217;s still sending lab results by fax. Down the same hallway, Tempus AI (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEM#NASDAQ">TEM</a>) is making its pitch: a genomics-driven diagnostics pipeline that has the potential to condense drug development months into weeks. Down the street, Recursion Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RXRX#NASDAQ">RXRX</a>), connected to Nvidia&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) AI muscle, is whipping up molecules more quickly than most of the major pharma companies can convene a patent meeting.
Track Palantir's stock moves <a href="https://archive.ph/o/RcesA/https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PLTR" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a>.
This isn&#8217;t a sci-fi movie. It&#8217;s 2025. And it&#8217;s the future of medicine.
But what if you peek under the hood of most <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">healthcare ETFs</a>, and find the list still dominated by old-school giants: Pfizer (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>), Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JNJ#NYSE">JNJ</a>), all good revenue machines, yes, but now stalled in terms of stock momentum and innovation hype. So the elephant-in-the-room question hangs: are ETF issuers missing the real excitement in AI-native biotech?
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The ETF Landscape: Are We Still Wearing 2015 Goggles?</h2>
Even with this tectonic shift in where innovation is really occurring, the world of ETFs hasn&#8217;t yet caught up. The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>) remains top-heavy in UnitedHealth (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>), and Eli Lilly (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>). The iShares U.S. Pharmaceuticals ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IHE#NYSE">IHE</a>) is laser-beamed on the usual suspects. 
However, very few thematic funds such as the ARK Genomic Revolution ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKG#BATS">ARKG</a>) have piled into Tempus AI and Recursion — although Cathie Wood&#8217;s ARK is infamous for dipping its toes into Palantir waters.
It raises the question: if AI is reshaping healthcare at its source — the molecule, the diagnosis, the trial protocol — why are investors still paying for exposure to the output, rather than the architects?
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/07/46639976/3-pharma-stocks-that-arent-sweating-the-coming-200-drug-tariffs">3 Pharma Stocks That Aren&#8217;t Sweating the Coming 200% Drug Tariffs</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AI-Native Pharma Is Already A Thing And It&#8217;s Moving Fast</h2>
Let&#8217;s begin with the numbers. Palantir is up more than 11% in the past month and has already shown a phenomenal YTD performance as investors prepare for its Q2 earnings. The company&#8217;s expansion into healthcare is no side gig, it&#8217;s quietly establishing itself as the digital scaffolding for hospital systems and military-grade medical planning, too.
Tempus AI, though experiencing a modest 6% retreat in the last month, has remained firm at around $64, indicating market faith in its capability to use AI to industrialize cancer diagnosis. And Recursion Pharmaceuticals has been up 15% since late June, while remaining in loss for the year, a classic biotech early-stage pattern, but now infused with algorithmic drug discovery.
NVIDIA, whose chips reside at the center of Recursion&#8217;s wet-lab-meets-silicon-brain hybrid model, remains the underlying facilitator of this whole thing.
And Big Pharma, meanwhile? Pfizer languishes at around $24, while Merck hovers at around $85, not exactly the material for breakout tales.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The ETF Opportunity</h2>
The pressure is obvious. Conventional drugmakers still control manufacturing, regulation, and distribution. But AI-first companies are beginning to own the upstream, the concepts, the iterations, the trial designs. And in a space where delays in R&amp;D can run into billions and cost patient lives, speed and accuracy are no longer niceties — they&#8217;re necessities.
ETF providers now have a choice. Are they going to keep tracking yesterday&#8217;s winners in healthcare, or pre-emptively shift portfolios towards the players really shaping tomorrow&#8217;s innovation?
There is an open invitation here to innovating. A specially designed &#8220;AI &amp; Next-Gen Healthcare ETF&#8221; that combines genomics-based diagnostics, machine learning-assisted discovery, and healthtech infrastructure could grab the very growth that conventional pharma ETFs are not seeing.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h2>
Palantir, Tempus AI, and Recursion are not merely healthcare-adjacent technology companies. They&#8217;re the leading edge of a very lucrative spear — one that already has pieced biotech&#8217;s old armor. And although Big Pharma is still, well, pharma, it&#8217;s the AI-born upstarts who are flexing the future.
The ETF business might need to begin paying attention, because the actual biotech bull cycle may not be occurring in corner offices, but in server racks, sequencing labs, and real-time data dashboards.
Read Next: 
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