Banzai International Bolsa (NASDAQ: BNZI)

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Banzai International

Banzai International Inc is a marketing technology (MarTech) company that produces data-driven marketing and sales solutions for businesses of all sizes. Its mission is to help its customers accomplish their mission by enabling marketing, sales and customer engagement outcomes. The company has two reportable operating segments, Banzai Operating and OpenReel. The company's segments deliver SaaS tools that leverage data, analytics, and AI to provide marketing and sales solutions for business of all size. it derives maximum revenue from Banzai Operating segment. Geographically, it operates in Americas, Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA), and Asia Pacific.

Banzai International, Inc. - Class A Common Stock

Banzai International Inc

Banco Invex SA Institucion De Banca Multiple-Invex Grupo Financiero Certificados Bursatiles Fiduciarios Inmobiliarios Series 14

Banco Invex SA Institucion De Banca Multiple-Invex Grupo Financiero

In an era of inflation shocks, shifting alliances, and economic volatility, one thing hasn't changed: central banks are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-gold-trading-strategies">doubling down on gold</a>. While investors may debate crypto, equities, or cash, the institutions managing national reserves are quietly — and consistently — boosting their gold holdings. And they're doing it in record amounts.
The latest Central Bank Gold Reserves <a href="https://www.gold.org/goldhub/research/central-bank-gold-reserves-survey-2025">survey</a> from the World Gold Council offers fresh insights into why this centuries-old asset remains so essential in modern reserve strategy. The message is clear: gold isn't just a relic — it's a key tool for navigating global uncertainty.
The takeaway? Confidence in gold is strong. Nearly all respondents (95%) believe global gold reserves will increase over the next year, and 43% say they personally plan to add more to their own reserves. None reported plans to decrease their holdings.
Why the continued interest? It comes down to a few key factors: gold tends to perform well during periods of crisis, it provides portfolio diversification, and it holds long-term value — something that matters when inflation or geopolitical risk are on the rise.
The survey also shows changing views around currency reserves. A majority (73%) of central banks think <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/us-dollar">the U.S. dollar</a>'s share of global reserves will shrink over the next five years, while assets like the euro, Chinese renminbi, and gold are expected to gain ground.
More central banks are also actively managing their gold, with 44% now doing so — up from 37% last year. Risk management and return optimization were cited as the top reasons. And while the Bank of England remains the most popular place to store gold, more banks are bringing their reserves closer to home — 59% now store at least some gold domestically.
Bottom line: in a world of uncertainty, gold remains a trusted asset for central banks — and their continued buying signals long-term confidence in its role as a stabilizer in turbulent times.
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Photo: Shutterstock

Financial Advisors

Commodities

Why Are Central Banks Still Stockpiling Gold?

Thousands of Afghan nationals residing in the United States may soon be deported as the Trump administration moves to revoke their temporary protected status, triggering widespread fear within <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the refugee community.</a>
The Guardian reports that the policy shift removes Afghanistan from the TPS list, a classification that previously shielded Afghans from deportation and allowed them to work legally in the U.S.
This reversal has placed many at immediate risk, even those who supported American forces during the 20-year war.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44209655/the-heart-breaking-story-of-afghan-women-facing-deportation-after-trumps-usaid-aid-cuts" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Heart-Breaking Story Of Afghan Women Facing Deportation After Trump&#8217;s USAID Aid Cuts</a>
Shir Agha Safi, who leads the non-profit Afghan Partners in Des Moines, Iowa, said community members are gripped by anxiety, drawing parallels with the recent deportations of Venezuelan migrants.
Safi said, &#8220;They would choose suicide over being tortured and killed by the Taliban,&#8221; the report adds.
The Department of Homeland Security, now under the leadership of Kristi Noem, has justified the change by claiming that Afghanistan&#8217;s security has improved.
A DHS statement cited a decrease in kidnappings and a rise in tourism as signs of stability.
However, critics point to the same report DHS references, which also highlights deteriorating civil conditions, suppression of legal systems, and widespread fear under Taliban rule.
The State Department continues to advise U.S. citizens against travel to Afghanistan, labeling it a high-risk zone due to threats of violence, terrorism, and arbitrary detentions, The Guardian adds.
Despite these warnings, DHS insists the country is safe enough to accept returning nationals.
Afghans initially gained TPS under the Biden administration in 2022 following the Taliban&#8217;s return to power.
Their status was already precarious before Trump&#8217;s re-election, but the new directive threatens to dismantle legal protections for thousands. Immigration advocates say the move could devastate families who have spent years integrating into American society.
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News

General

Better Dead Than Back To Taliban: Afghan Refugees Fear Forced Return Under Trump

On Saturday night President Donald Trump declared successful strikes on three crucial Iranian nuclear sites, terming it a &#8216;spectacular military success&#8217;.
What Happened: The US military executed precision strikes on the Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear facilities&nbsp;in Iran around midnight local&nbsp;time. 
&#8220;Our objective was the destruction&nbsp;of Iran&#8217;s nuclear enrichment capacity,&nbsp;and a stop to the&nbsp;nuclear threat posed by the&nbsp;world&#8217;s number one state sponsor&nbsp;of terror,&#8221; Trump said while <a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/C7eSJ011Muc">addressing </a>the nation.
&#8220;A short time ago, the U.S. military carried out massive precision strikes on the three key nuclear facilities in the Iranian regime: Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan,&#8221; Trump said. &#8220;Everybody heard those names for years as they built this horribly destructive enterprise. Our objective was the destruction of Iran&#8217;s nuclear enrichment capacity, and a stop to the nuclear threat posed by the world&#8217;s number one state sponsor of terror. Tonight, I can report to the world that the strikes were a spectacular military success.&#8221;&nbsp;
&#8220;For 40 years, Iran has been saying, ‘Death to America. Death to Israel.' They have been killing our people, blowing off their arms, blowing off their legs with roadside bombs,&#8221; Trump added. &#8220;That was their specialty. We lost over a thousand people and hundreds of thousands throughout the Middle East and around the world have died as a direct result of their hate in particular.&#8221;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46042298/trump-publicly-contradicts-dni-gabbards-claim-that-iran-lacks-nuclear-capabilities-shes-wrong">Trump Publicly Contradicts DNI Gabbard&#8217;s Claim That Iran Lacks Nuclear Capabilities: &#8216;She&#8217;s Wrong&#8217;</a>
The President had previously announced last Thursday that he would decide&nbsp;on whether to strike Iran&nbsp;within a two-week period. 
Despite his calls for Iran to negotiate on its nuclear program, the country withdrew from scheduled talks with the US and declined to return to the negotiation table.
Trump announced the successful attacks via a Truth Social post on Saturday evening. The US reportedly used six bunker-buster bombs and&nbsp;30 tomahawk missiles launched from&nbsp;American submarines in the strikes.
Earlier, on June 12, Israel had ordered strikes on Iran as Israeli intelligence indicated that Iran&#8217;s nuclear program was advancing rapidly. The Israeli strikes, known as &#8220;Operation Rising Lion,&#8221;&nbsp;targeted Iran&#8217;s nuclear and missile&nbsp;infrastructure.
Why It Matters: The strikes come amid escalating tensions between the US and Iran over the latter&#8217;s nuclear program. The US has long accused Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons, a charge Iran denies. 
The successful strikes represent a significant escalation in the US&#8217;s efforts to curb Iran&#8217;s nuclear ambitions. The decision to strike follows Iran&#8217;s refusal to engage in talks about its nuclear program, further straining relations between the two countries.
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Politics

Donald Trump Announces 'Spectacular Military Success' As US Strikes Key Iranian Nuclear Sites

The Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged at 4.25%–4.50% for the sixth straight meeting, with Chair Jerome Powell signaling no near-term cuts despite <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/46011739/jerome-powell-led-fed-has-left-interest-rate-unchanged-what-does-it-mean-for-savings-mortgages-credit-cards-and-your-bank-account" rel="noreferrer noopener">mounting pressure from the White House.</a>
Meanwhile, global uncertainty ticked higher as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt revealed the U.S. remains open to negotiations with Iran, even as President Donald Trump weighs potential military action—<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/06/46017426/trump-gives-iran-2-weeks-to-strike-a-deal-or-face-us-military-action" rel="noreferrer noopener">promising a decision "within the next two weeks."</a>
Amid these macro headlines, the consumer tech sector pressed on with notable developments.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/04/44873349/openai-and-softbanks-stargate-considers-major-uk-investment-to-fuel-ai-growth" rel="noreferrer noopener">OpenAI And SoftBank's Stargate Considers Major UK Investment To Fuel AI Growth</a>
Earnings Results
Accenture (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACN#NYSE">ACN</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $3.49 per share, topping&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/06/46024923/accenture-new-bookings-fall-in-q3-but-it-raises-profit-outlook" rel="noreferrer noopener">the&nbsp;analyst consensus estimate of $3.31</a>.
Accenture announced a&nbsp;strategic overhaul of its growth model, effective September 1, 2025, with a sharpened focus on AI.
Technology
Nvidia&nbsp;Corporation&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)&nbsp;venture capital arm,&nbsp;NVentures, has joined a $650 million funding round for&nbsp;TerraPower, a nuclear energy company founded by&nbsp;Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)&nbsp;co-founder&nbsp;Bill Gates.
Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is reportedly looking to harness the power of generative artificial intelligence to accelerate the development of the&nbsp;custom chips that power&nbsp;its devices, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010207/apple-hardware-executive-says-iphone-maker-plans-to-use-ai-for-speeding-up-custom-chip-design-high-potential-in-getting-more-design-work-in-less-time" rel="noreferrer noopener">according to senior executive&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010207/apple-hardware-executive-says-iphone-maker-plans-to-use-ai-for-speeding-up-custom-chip-design-high-potential-in-getting-more-design-work-in-less-time" rel="noreferrer noopener">Johny Srouji</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010207/apple-hardware-executive-says-iphone-maker-plans-to-use-ai-for-speeding-up-custom-chip-design-high-potential-in-getting-more-design-work-in-less-time" rel="noreferrer noopener">.</a>
Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXN#NASDAQ">TXN</a>) announced a&nbsp;$60 billion plan&nbsp;to expand U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturing, marking what the company says is the largest investment in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45998624/texas-instruments-announces-60-billion-us-semiconductor-manufacturing-boost" rel="noreferrer noopener">foundational chip production in the nation's history.</a>
Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>)&nbsp;cloud unit is set to launch its second data center in South Korea to capitalize <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46032308/alibaba-expands-ai-cloud-footprint-in-south-korea-with-new-data-hub-launching-in-june" rel="noreferrer noopener">on the generative AI frenzy.</a>
Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>)&nbsp;is reportedly in discussions to hire&nbsp;Nat Friedman, former CEO of&nbsp;GitHub, to support <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010604/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-reportedly-looking-to-hire-former-github-ceo-nat-friedman-and-investor-daniel-gross-as-part-of-aggressive-ai-expansion-strategy" rel="noreferrer noopener">its artificial intelligence efforts</a>.
The&nbsp;Trump Organization&nbsp;is&nbsp;entering the wireless industry&nbsp;with plans to launch a smartphone called the &#8220;T-1 Phone,&#8221; priced at $499 and promoted as being manufactured in the U.S.—a promise experts say may <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45990957/trump-mobile-plans-to-launch-499-t-1-phone-made-in-the-usa-but-expert-says-you-dont-have-the-employees-that-can-do-it" rel="noreferrer noopener">not hold up under scrutiny.</a>
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Softbank Group Corp (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SFTBY#OTC">SFTBY</a>)&nbsp;founder&nbsp;Masayoshi Son is spearheading an alliance with&nbsp;Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>), proposing a $1 trillion industrial complex in Arizona.
OpenAI chief executive&nbsp;Sam Altman says he &#8220;didn&#8217;t think Elon was going to abuse his power in the government to unfairly compete&#8221; but now believes he was wrong after Tesla&#8217;s founder allegedly tried to derail OpenAI&#8217;s $500 billion <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46023822/sam-altman-says-he-didnt-think-elon-musk-would-abuse-government-power-tesla-ceo-hits-back-with-scam-altman-jibe" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8220;Stargate&#8221; data-center deal.</a>
Automobiles
Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)&nbsp;is reportedly working on a 6-seater <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46020870/elon-musks-tesla-to-expand-model-y-lineup-with-new-6-seater-version-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">variant of the Model Y crossover SUV.</a>
Tesla will shut down production at the Texas Gigafactory, which manufactures the Cybertruck and the Model Y, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45989148/tesla-will-shut-down-production-at-the-texas-gigafactory-over-the-4th-of-july-weekend" rel="noreferrer noopener">over the Independence Day weekend.</a>
Ford Motor Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) has recalled more than 197,000 vehicles in the latest recall over an issue affecting the backseat occupants, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46012477/ford-recalls-over-197000-vehicles-for-backseat-issue-that-could-trap-occupants-in-emergency-situations" rel="noreferrer noopener">where they may remain locked inside the vehicle.</a>
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Equities

Markets

Tech

AAPL

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Consumer Tech News (June 16-June 20): Fed Holds Rates, Trump Eyes Iran Moves, Apple Taps AI, Accenture Shifts Strategy

Each week, Benzinga'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/25/06/45750724/exclusive-mays-20-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-where-do-apple-palantir-coreweave-nvidia-rank" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: May&#8217;s 20 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro — Where Do Apple, Palantir, CoreWeave, Nvidia Rank?</a>
Here&#8217;s a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending June 20:
SS&amp;C Technologies (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SSNC#NASDAQ">SSNC</a>): The software and solutions for hedge fund and private equity companies saw increased interest from investors with minimal news on the week. The company recently announced it <a href="https://investor.ssctech.com/news-and-events/news-details/2025/SSC-to-Power-Wesleyans-New-Digital-First-Wealth-Platform/default.aspx">partnered </a>with Wesleyan Assurance Society for the mutual fund company's digital-first wealth management platform. SS&amp;C Technologies has beaten analyst estimate for both revenue and earnings per share in six straight quarters and could be one of the stocks most investors haven't heard of. Shares are up 5.3% year-to-date in 2025 with a slight drop during the last trading week.
<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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="501" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957090" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457-300x150.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225526/Screenshot-457-768x385.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>
Roblox (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>): Don't look now, but shares of gaming company Roblox are trading where they were back in late 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. The company is likely being helped by surprise hit minigame "Grow a Garden," which Roblox users can play. The game is seeing high concurrent user figures for people playing Roblox and also helping increase monetization on the platform. Hit games on Roblox have a tendency to help boost quarterly results with higher in-game spending coming from new and old users. Roblox has also seen a handful of analyst ratings with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RBLX/analyst-ratings">higher price targets </a>including Oppenheimer taking the price target from $80 to $125 and Wedbush taking the price target from $91 to $110. The gaming company<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/06/45859607/roblox-hires-paramounts-cfo-will-naveen-chopra-fuel-the-platforms-next-big-leap"> also announced new </a>Chief Financial Officer Naveen Chopra, who comes with years of experience at Paramount Global. Chopra also previously oversaw Amazon.com's Devices and Services division, helping power growth of items like the Kindle, Alexa and Fire TV. Roblox was also recently announced <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/gaming/25/06/45850712/microsoft-vs-nintendo-handheld-gaming-console-includes-nvidia-vs-amd-battle-which-one-will-come-out-on-top">as a partner</a> for the new Microsoft handheld video game console, which will mark the first time the game can be played natively and be optimized for handhelds. Roblox stock is up 74% year-to-date in 2025 with shares up 9% for the week.
<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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="502" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957091" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225541/Screenshot-458-768x387.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>
Millicom International Cellular (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TIGO#NASDAQ">TIGO</a>): The Latin American telecommunications company saw increased interest from readers during the week, which could be related to the closing of an acquisition. Millicom recently <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/06/13/3099331/0/en/Millicom-Tigo-Strengthens-South-American-Leadership-with-USD-380-Million-Acquisition-of-Telef%C3%B3nica-Ecuador.html">closed </a>the acquisition of Telefónica's telecommunications operations in Ecuador. The deal valued at $380 million will help strengthen Millicom's presence in the company and continued expansion in South America. The company highlighted favorable demographics for Ecuador that could see increased consumer spending and mobile growth. Millicom servs over 46 million customers in its regions. Shares of the company were down on a Scotiabank analyst downgrade during the week, but the stock remains up 43% 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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="995" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957092" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462.png 995w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225555/Screenshot-462-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 995px) 100vw, 995px" /></a></figure>
Carlisle Companies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSL#NYSE">CSL</a>): The building materials company saw strong interest from readers on no new news. The company is a leading manufacturer and supplier of roofing products for the commercial building sector. Products include roofing products, insulation and weatherproofing with the company completing many acquisitions in recent years. Carlisle has paid out consecutive and increasing dividends since 1976 and the company has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in eight of the last 10 years. The stock is down 15% year-to-date in 2025 and could be one to watch with the consistent earnings per share beats, dividend increases and interest from readers.
<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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="507" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957093" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225609/Screenshot-463-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>
Vistra (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VST#NYSE">VST</a>): The power producer continues to see shares trade higher hitting new all-time highs during the week with shares up 24% year-to-date in 2025 with an already impressive gain during the 2024 year. Readers continued to show strong interest in the stock, which could be related to President Donald Trump's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/mid-cap/25/05/45587750/uranium-stocks-surge-trumps-nuclear-push-sparks-double-digit-gains">comments on nuclear energy </a>and the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45816468/ai-data-centers-are-eating-electricity-and-these-3-energy-stocks-could-be-the-biggest-winners-says-analyst">increased demand</a> likely needed for AI companies. Morgan Stanley <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VST/analyst-ratings">maintained an Overweight rating</a> on the stock and increased the price target from $176 to $186, while UBS maintained a Buy rating on the stock and increased the price target from $160 to $207.
<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=0620"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464.png" alt="" class="wp-image-957094" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/21225625/Screenshot-464-768x388.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>
Stay tuned for next week'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=0620" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>
Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/05/45482435/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-65" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May 16</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/25/05/45600269/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-66" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May 23</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/05/45710022/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-67" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May 30</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45827517/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-68" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">June 6</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/45938888/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-69">June 13</a></li>
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Benzinga's 'Stock Whisper' Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don't Talk About Yet

The past week in the world of finance and technology was nothing short of exciting. From the backing of a crypto-friendly startup bank by big names in tech to the stunning surge of Circle&#8217;s stock, there was no shortage of intriguing developments.
Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories that made headlines.
Anduril And Palantir Founders Back Crypto-Friendly Startup Bank
Palmer Luckey, founder of defense technology startup&nbsp;Anduril Industries, and&nbsp;Joe Lonsdale, co-founder of&nbsp;Palantir Technologies, have reportedly invested in a cryptocurrency-friendly banking startup. The startup aims to provide stability to Silicon Valley and assist tech entrepreneurs in growing their businesses.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45944062/anduril-founder-palmer-luckey-palantir-co-founder-joe-lonsdale-to-invest-in-crypto-friendly-startup-bank-report">Read the full article here.</a>
Circle&#8217;s Stock Skyrockets By 540%
Circle Internet Group, Inc., the issuer behind the USD Coin, saw its stock surge by a whopping 540% since its IPO on June 5. The rally gained further momentum following the U.S. Senate&#8217;s passage of the GENIUS Act, a bill that would formally regulate dollar-backed stablecoins.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46030182/circle-stock-rockets-540-cathie-wood-says-weve-just-begun">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/06/46032425/tokens-are-a-lemon-market-heres-how-to-fix-it" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tokens Are A Lemon Market&#8230;Here&#8217;s How To Fix It</a>
Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Remain Rangebound
Leading cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Dogecoin, moved sideways as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell signaled slower growth and hotter inflation. Bitcoin consolidated in the $104,000-$105,000 range.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/46010229/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-rangebound-as-fed-chair-jerome-powell-highlights-tariff-induced-uncertainty-analyst-says-these-2-levels-are-key-for-btc">Read the full article here.</a>
Dogecoin Could See A 60% Move
Cryptocurrency analyst Ali Martinez projected a 60% price move for Dogecoin once it breaks free from a symmetrical triangle pattern. This pattern typically indicates a period of consolidation in the market before a potential breakout or breakdown.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/06/46020265/dogecoin-could-see-a-60-move-if-it-breaks-out-of-this-range-says-analyst-but-what-determines-its-direction">Read the full article here.</a>
Elizabeth Warren&#8217;s Warning on Stablecoins
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) warned that stablecoin legislation could enable billionaires like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos to exploit user data and engage in unfair trade practices. She argued that the GENIUS Act has a major loophole that allows Big Tech and major retailers to issue their own stablecoins.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45965853/elizabeth-warren-says-billionaires-like-jeff-bezos-and-elon-musk-will-track-your-purchases-if-allowed-to-launch-stablecoins-and-stick-you-with-the-bill-when-it-blows-up">Read the full article here.</a>
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/ananya-gairola" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ananya Gairola</a>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

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

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Crypto-Friendly Startup Bank, Circle's Stock Surge And More: This Week In Crypto

Pakistan has announced plans to nominate President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, citing his role in easing tensions between nuclear-armed neighbors India and Pakistan.
The proposal follows Trump&#8217;s unexpected declaration of a ceasefire in May, which came during a four-day standoff between the two South Asian rivals, <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/21/pakistan-to-nominate-genuine-peacemaker-trump-for-nobel-peace-prize" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> Al Jazeera.
His intervention, Islamabad claims, helped de-escalate a situation that risked spiraling into war.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/45003238/trump-says-he-may-deserve-a-nobel-peace-prize-for-this-reason" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Says He May Deserve A Nobel Peace Prize For This Reason</a>
Islamabad praised Trump&#8217;s diplomatic approach, hailing his &#8220;strategic foresight&#8221; in engaging both capitals during the crisis.
According to a <a href="https://x.com/GovtofPakistan/status/1936159807326900577" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">statement </a>on X, the Pakistani government described Trump as a &#8220;genuine peacemaker&#8221; whose dialogue-driven strategy demonstrated a commitment to global stability.
However, India has challenged that narrative, maintaining that the ceasefire was a direct result of mutual military agreement and not foreign mediation.
New Delhi reaffirmed its position that it does not and will never accept third-party involvement in its disputes with Pakistan.
While Trump has frequently claimed he prevented a nuclear war and saved countless lives, his remarks have often been accompanied by frustration over what he sees as a lack of recognition, the report reads.
In a recent social media <a target="_blank" href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114717932061341718" rel="noreferrer noopener">post</a>, he listed several conflicts he said he resolved, including the Abraham Accords and Indo-Pak tensions, quipping that &#8220;I won&#8217;t get a Nobel Peace Prize no matter what I do.&#8221;
The Nobel talk arrives as Pakistan&#8217;s top military officer, Field Marshal Asim Munir, dined with Trump at the White House—an unusual invitation while Pakistan&#8217;s civilian government remains in office.
Aljazeera adds that analysts believe the move may be aimed at currying favor with Trump, who remains a significant figure in global politics, especially as speculation swirls around his foreign policy intentions should he return to office.
Still, the nomination has sparked backlash within Pakistan.
Prominent journalist Talat Hussain criticized the move, pointing to Trump&#8217;s outspoken support of Israeli military actions in Gaza and aggressive rhetoric on Iran. &#8220;Israel&#8217;s sugar daddy in Gaza… isn&#8217;t a candidate for any prize,&#8221; Hussain wrote on X.
While some observers frame the nomination as shrewd realpolitik, others see it as pandering to Trump&#8217;s ego—a diplomatic gamble with mixed domestic reception.
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Image: Shutterstock/Bertil Jonsson

Pakistan Will Nominate 'Genuine Peacemaker' Trump for Nobel Peace Prize

The tech world was abuzz over the week with a variety of stories, each more intriguing than the last. From potential acquisitions to massive data leaks, the weekend was anything but dull. Here&#8217;s a quick roundup of the top stories that shaped the tech landscape over the weekend.
Apple Considers Acquisition of Perplexity AI
Top executives at&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)&nbsp;have reportedly been discussing the potential acquisition of Perplexity AI. Adrian Perica, Apple&#8217;s head of M&amp;A, has been floating the idea with senior leaders, including services chief Eddy Cue, according to Bloomberg.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46041473/apple-eyes-perplexity-ai-acquisition-while-facing-shareholder-lawsuit-over-exaggerated-ai-progress-report">Read the full article here.</a>
Massive Data Leak Exposes Billions of Login Records
A massive data leak has exposed over 16 billion login credentials tied to platforms like Apple, Google, and Facebook. This marks one of the most extensive exposures of personal data in history, according to cybersecurity researchers.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46016990/apple-google-and-facebook-among-services-exposed-in-massive-leak-of-more-than-16-billion-login-records">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45990957/trump-mobile-plans-to-launch-499-t-1-phone-made-in-the-usa-but-expert-says-you-dont-have-the-employe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Mobile Plans To Launch $499 &#8216;T-1 Phone&#8217; Made In The USA: But Expert Says &#8216;You Don&#8217;t Have The Employees That Can Do It&#8217;</a>
Apple to Use AI for Speeding Up Custom Chip Design
Apple is reportedly exploring the use of generative artificial intelligence to accelerate the development of its custom chips. This was revealed by Johny Srouji, Apple&#8217;s senior vice president of hardware technologies, during a speech in Belgium last month.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46010207/apple-hardware-executive-says-iphone-maker-plans-to-use-ai-for-speeding-up-custom-chip-design-high-potential-in-getting-more-design-work-in-less-time">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple Avoids $300 Million Patent Penalty
Apple has managed to dodge a $300 million patent infringement penalty after a federal appeals court ruled that faulty jury instructions violated the tech giant&#8217;s constitutional rights in its dispute with patent licensing firm Optis Cellular Technology.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/06/45989818/apple-dodges-300-million-patent-penalty-as-appeals-court-cites-jury-instruction-errors-in-lte-dispute-with-optis">Read the full article here.</a>
Apple Extends iOS 26 Feature to Third-Party Apps
Apple is reportedly extending one of iOS 26&#8217;s new features—animated album art on the lock screen—to third-party music and audio apps. This breaks its exclusive tie to Apple Music.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45942472/apple-opens-ios-26-lock-screen-animation-to-spotify-and-other-third-party-music-apps-report">Read the full article here.</a>
Photo courtesy: jamesteohart / Shutterstock.com
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Apple's Potential AI Acquisition, Massive Data Leak, And More: This Week In Appleverse

A plot of land neighboring Jeff Bezos&#8216; property in Miami was sold for a staggering $105 million. The undeveloped lot was sold <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36631415/this-amazon-applicants-interview-answer-earned-her-a-seat-3-feet-away-from-amazons-bezos">by German investor Mikhail Peleg.</a>
What Happened: The sale of the property on Indian Creek Island has set a new record for this ultra-exclusive location. The buyer of the property remains anonymous, but the transaction was made in cash, as per Forbes.
Peleg, a resident of Switzerland, bought the approximately 2-acre&nbsp;land in 2018 for $27.5&nbsp;million. Although he initially planned to build on the plot, the project was eventually abandoned. 
&#8220;When&nbsp;I purchased this property in&nbsp;2018, it was the highest&nbsp;sale price on the market,&#8221; Peleg told the <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/06/20/real-estate/mikhail-peleg-sold-his-jeff-bezos-adjacent-lot-for-105m/">outlet</a>. 
&#8220;People&nbsp;told me I was overpaying,&nbsp;that it wasn't a smart&nbsp;investment. But I saw the&nbsp;long-term potential in both the&nbsp;land and the vision we&nbsp;had for the property.&#8221;
The property, located&nbsp;at 9 Indian Creek Island&nbsp;Road, was&nbsp;listed for $200 million late&nbsp;last year. It drew attention due to its proximity to properties owned by Bezos. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/05/45601150/jeff-bezos-called-out-in-hunts-point-acts-like-he-owns-hunts-point-not-much-of-a-neighbor-busy-with-national-stuff">Jeff Bezos Called Out in Hunts Point: &#8216;Acts Like He Owns Hunts Point,&#8217; &#8216;Not Much of a Neighbor,&#8217; &#8216;Busy With National Stuff&#8217;</a>
The final sales price of $105 million&nbsp;sets a new record for&nbsp;Indian Creek Island,&nbsp;just $15 million shy of&nbsp;Miami's most expensive home sale.
Why It Matters: Indian Creek Island is renowned for its exclusivity, with access heavily restricted. 
The island is home to high-profile residents such as Tom Brady, Carl Icahn, and Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump.
The record-breaking sale price of this property underscores the high demand for real estate in this exclusive location, despite the high costs. 
The sale also highlights the potential for significant returns on investment in the luxury real estate market, as demonstrated by Peleg&#8217;s substantial profit from his 2018 purchase.
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Image: Shutterstock/lev radin

Mystery Seller Behind $105 Million Plot Next to Jeff Bezos Estate Finally Revealed

The past week was a rollercoaster ride for the financial world. From&nbsp;Elon Musk&#8216;s dire warnings about the U.S. debt to&nbsp;Jerome Powell&#8216;s firm stance on interest rates, the week was filled with significant events that could shape the future of the global economy. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories.
Musk Warns Of &#8216;De Facto&#8217; Bankruptcy
Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, CEO of&nbsp;Tesla Inc., raised concerns about the U.S. fiscal outlook. Musk warned that the U.S. is on the brink of &#8220;de facto bankruptcy&#8221; as the federal debt surpasses $37 trillion, with interest payments now accounting for a quarter of all tax revenue.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/45988656/elon-musk-warns-us-faces-de-facto-bankruptcy-if-37-trillion-debt-not-tackled-peter-schiff-says-we-are-already-bankrupt">Read the full article here.</a>
Powell Holds Steady On Interest Rates
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell defended the decision to keep interest rates unchanged, citing easing inflation and trade and geopolitical risks. Despite three consecutive months of positive inflation data, Powell stated that inflation is still running somewhat above the Fed&#8217;s 2% longer-run objective.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/46006680/powell-holds-line-on-interest-rates-blames-tariff-uncertainty-for-delay-in-cuts">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/06/45888833/mcdonalds-just-got-hammered-by-weight-loss-drugs-twice" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">McDonald&#8217;s Just Got Hammered By Weight-Loss Drugs — Twice</a>
Swiss Interest Rate Hits Zero
The Swiss National Bank cut its benchmark interest rate to 0%, the lowest level since 2022. This move amplifies the gap between U.S. and Swiss rates to record highs, influenced by declining inflationary pressure and a deteriorating global economic outlook.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/eurozone/25/06/46015245/switzerland-interest-rate-reaches-0-gap-with-fed-funds-soars-to-historic-levels">Read the full article here.</a>
Rate Cut Odds Amid Middle East Tensions
Economist Jon Faust, a former senior advisor to Fed Chair Jerome Powell, suggested that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could significantly alter the equations surrounding a rate cut. Faust believes that the Israel-Iran tensions could potentially tip the U.S. economy into a slowdown.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/45944853/rate-cut-odds-50-50-amid-israel-iran-conflict-says-jerome-powells-ex-advisor-jon-faust">Read the full article here.</a>
Powell Blames Tariffs For Inflation
Jerome Powell, during his press conference, attributed the rise in the inflation median forecast to the effects of tariffs. This statement has left analysts divided, with some believing that the central bank is overplaying the inflation story.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/46011863/jerome-powell-blames-trump-tariffs-for-inflation-analyst-claps-back-says-fed-is-overplaying-the-card">Read the full article here.</a>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45988475/us-military-action-on-iran-odds-rise-on-crypto-betting-site-polymarket-as-trump-demands-unconditional-surrender" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">US Military Action On Iran? Odds Rise On Crypto Betting Site Polymarket As Trump Demands ‘Unconditional Surrender'</a></li>
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/ananya-gairola" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ananya Gairola</a>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Economics

Musk's Debt Warning, Powell's Rate Stance And More: This Week In Economics

The week was abuzz with political and business news, with headlines dominated by the ongoing legal battle between California and the Trump administration, escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, and Elon Musk&#8217;s decision to step away from politics. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories.
California vs. Trump: The National Guard Dispute Intensifies
California&#8217;s legal conflict with the Trump administration over the deployment of military forces in Los Angeles has taken a new turn. An appeals court decision has provided Trump with a procedural advantage, allowing him to maintain control over the National Guard troops he deployed amid protests against immigration raids.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46041458/california-trump-legal-battle-over-national-guard-deployment-escalates-after-court-ruling">Read the full article here.</a>
Iranian Official Calls on Trump to End Conflict with Israel
An Iranian official has stated that diplomacy with the U.S. could resume instantly—if Donald Trump ordered Israel to stop bombing Iran. Majid Farahani, an official with Iran&#8217;s presidency, said the U.S. holds the key to ending the escalating conflict between Iran and Israel.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46041289/trump-could-stop-this-war-with-one-phone-call-says-iranian-official-as-tehran-warns-us-of-retaliation-if-conflict-with-israel-escalates">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46022419/elon-musk-says-cleaning-up-government-is-like-picking-up-trash-on-a-beach-before-a-thousand-foot-ai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Says Cleaning Up Government Is Like Picking Up Trash On A Beach Before A Thousand-Foot AI Tsunami Hits—And That&#8217;s Why He&#8217;s Done With Politics</a>
Elon Musk Steps Away from Politics
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), has announced that he&#8217;s done with politics. Speaking at the AI Startup School by Y Combinator, Musk described his brief stint in the federal government as a "side quest" that quickly proved less impactful than his core mission, which is building transformative technologies.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46022419/elon-musk-says-cleaning-up-government-is-like-picking-up-trash-on-a-beach-before-a-thousand-foot-ai-tsunami-hits-and-thats-why-hes-done-with-politics">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump Applauds Senate&#8217;s Passing of Stablecoin Legislation
President Donald Trump has praised the Senate's passing of the stablecoin legislation, urging Congress to get it to his desk without delays. In a Truth social post, Trump said that the "incredible" GENIUS Act would position the U.S. as the "undisputed" leader in digital assets.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46009971/trump-cheers-incredible-stablecoin-bill-passed-by-senate-get-it-to-my-desk-asap-no-delays">Read the full article here.</a>
Musk Responds to Trump&#8217;s Drug Accusations
In response to Trump&#8217;s &#8216;big-time drug addict&#8217; jibe, Elon Musk posted laboratory results showing negative drug test results for over 20 substances, including cocaine, opiates, and cannabinoids. Musk shared the lab report with a simple "lol" comment.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45968031/elon-musk-claps-back-at-trumps-big-time-drug-addict-jibe-says-he-tested-negative-for-over-20-substances">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46041289/trump-could-stop-this-war-with-one-phone-call-says-iranian-official-as-tehran-warns-us-of-retaliation-if-conflict-with-israel-escalates" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Could Stop This War With One Phone Call, Says Iranian Official As Tehran Warns US Of Retaliation If Conflict With Israel Escalates &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Photo courtesy: Maxim Elramsisy / Shutterstock.com
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Trump's Legal Win, Iran's Plea, Musk's Exit And More: This Week In Politics

Iran's Foreign Minister&nbsp;Abbas Araghchi&nbsp;warned on Saturday, before the U.S. launched airstrikes on the country's nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan, that if the United States got involved in the Israel-Iran conflict, the result would be "very, very dangerous" for everybody. The U.S. launched attacks on Saturday evening around 8:00 pm ET.
"The tweets, interviews by the U.S. President, [it's] quite clear that he&#8217;s talking about the U.S. leadership on these questions [of a potential U.S. involvement]," Aragachi told reporters, <a href="https://time.com/7296396/iran-new-warning-trump-united-states-israel-conflict-dangerous/">according</a> to Time Magazine. &nbsp;"Unfortunately, we have heard that the U.S. may join in this aggression. That would be very unfortunate and I think that would be very, very dangerous for everybody."
President Trump announced the Iran strikes on <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114724035571020048">Truth Social</a>. 
&#8220;We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan. All planes are now outside of Iran air space. A full payload of BOMBS was dropped on the primary site, Fordow. All planes are safely on their way home. Congratulations to our great American Warriors. There is not another military in the World that could have done this. NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE! Thank you for your attention to this matter.&#8221;
Trump had previously indicated that the U.S. was not involved in the Israeli strikes and that he was intending to give the situation two weeks, implying that U.S.-Iran negotiations were a possibility. Iranian officials replied that talks would not be helpful while Israeli attacks continued.
"In order for us to come back to diplomacy, the aggression should be stopped," Araghchi said. "I cannot go to negotiation with the United States when our people are under bombardment, under the support of the United States."
Following Saturday&#8217;s U.S. bombing, Iranian officials said the country's nuclear agency had already moved all relevant nuclear material from the three sites that were hit, according to MSNBC.
Trump has stated multiple times in the first months of his second term that a deal with Iran would have to include a ban on the nation&#8217;s enriching uranium—something that would allow them to produce nuclear weapons.
He has also called for something more permanent than a cease-fire. 
"We&#8217;re looking for better than a cease-fire," Trump told reporters on Air Force One on June 17 as he left the G7 summit. "A real end, not a cease-fire. An end… giving up, entirely."
Meanwhile, following Saturday&#8217;s U.S. air strikes, Iran has said all communications inside the country had been cut to avoid what officials have called &#8220;Israeli infiltration.&#8221; Per reports, chaos and insecurity have deepened on the ground among Tehran&#8217;s approximately nine million residents.
Photo: Shutterstock

Iran Calls US Bombing Of Nuclear Sites 'Very, Very Dangerous For Everybody'

<a href="https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31603" title="https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31603">https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31603</a>

iShares MSCI Israel Capped Investable Market Index Fund

President Trump Says 'I will be giving an Address to the Nation at 10:00 P.M., at the White House, regarding our very successful military operation in Iran.'

<a href="https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31599" title="https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31599">https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31599</a>
<a href="https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31599" title="https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31599">https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/31599</a>

Macro Notification

President Trump Says 'We have completed our very successful attack on the three Nuclear sites in Iran, including Fordow, Natanz, and Esfahan.'

Billionaire entrepreneur <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/entrepreneurship/25/06/45938396/mark-cuban-talks-about-his-struggles-during-his-first-company-i-didnt-take-a-vacation-for7-years">Mark Cuban</a> is known for shaking up industries — and he continues to propose bold ideas to reform the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43420762/us-health-care-ranks-last-among-wealthy-nations-study-reveals-despite-highest-spending-people-have-lower-than-average-life-expectancies">U.S. healthcare system</a>. In a series of posts on X, Cuban laid out a framework that shifts power away from insurance companies and toward patients and providers.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Broken System: Clawbacks and Underpayments</h2>
Cuban's comments came in response to a <a href="https://x.com/WallStreetApes/status/1934638014090883517">video</a> shared by @WallStreetApes, highlighting an American surgeon's experience with insurance "clawbacks."&nbsp;
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According to the post, the surgeon submitted a bill for a patient's surgery and received only one-third of the requested payment from the insurer. Months later, the insurance company demanded a refund — claiming it had overpaid — and withheld future reimbursements when the surgeon didn't comply quickly enough.
Cuban <a href="https://x.com/mcuban/status/1934826764024598679">weighed in</a>: "This is one more reason why companies should direct contract with providers. Insurance companies underpay providers all the time."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cuban's Healthcare Vision: A Cash-Pay, Patient-Centered Model</h2>
Asked what he would do if he were in charge of U.S. healthcare, Cuban offered a multi-part <a href="https://x.com/mcuban/status/1934826764024598679">response</a>. His ideas center on patient choice, price transparency, and shared responsibility between patients and the government.
Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;
Under Cuban's suggestions:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Patients would choose any provider offering a "cash pay" option with publicly posted prices.</li>
<li>Patients would commit to paying what they can afford — supported by documentation.</li>
<li>The government would finance the remaining cost.</li>
<li>Patients would repay the government through paycheck deductions, capped at 10% of income.</li>
<li>After 15 years, any remaining medical debt would be forgiven without penalties.</li>
</ul>
"There would be zero premiums to insurance companies," Cuban wrote. Instead, individuals would pay $400 to $500 monthly for family "re-insurance," capped at $50,000 annually. This limit would prevent patients from facing catastrophic costs.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">No More Middlemen: Eliminating Insurance and PBMs</h2>
Cuban's framework removes <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45458113/mark-cuban-blasts-health-insurance-companies-as-the-worst-of-the-worst-says-it-should-be-criminal-to-charge-5k-deductibles-to-people-making-25k">traditional insurance companies</a> and pharmacy benefit managers from the equation entirely. He has long said that these intermediaries drive up costs without improving care.
He also suggests eliminating employer-provided health insurance, allowing people to buy private plans if they wish, and switching <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/46014120/social-security-and-medicare-funds-could-run-dry-earlier-than-expected-new-report-shows">Medicare</a> and Medicaid to net pricing for prescription drugs.
See Also: Invest early in CancerVax's breakthrough tech aiming to disrupt a $231B market. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-company-may-have-found-a-way-to-treat-cancer-by-tricking-the-bodys-immune-system-and-early-studies-show-some-promise-find-out-how-you-can-invest-in-the-future-of-cancer-treatment">Back a bold new approach to cancer treatment with high-growth potential.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Concerns About Rising Prices and Access</h2>
While Cuban's ideals about the U.S. healthcare system are praised by some as a fresh take focused on incentives rather than buzzwords, it also raises questions.&nbsp;
Entrepreneur and investment educator Matt Allen <a href="https://x.com/investmattallen/status/1934830618530992291">asked</a> what would prevent providers from raising prices once the government covers the balance. He also pointed out the issue of limited provider choice in rural areas, where patients can't easily shop for lower-cost care.
Cuban <a href="https://x.com/mcuban/status/1934833030377685333">responded</a> that because patients are still financially responsible — through paycheck deductions — they'll be motivated to shop for value. Providers, in turn, would have to compete on price and service. "But it's not free money," he added. "Patients will have to pay out of their paycheck every month.&nbsp; They are on the hook for the care no matter what."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Conversation Starter, Not a Final Plan</h2>
Cuban emphasized that his ideas are a work in progress and based on his companies, not finalized policy. Still, his willingness to outline a detailed approach sparks renewed discussion around healthcare reform — particularly around affordability, transparency, and who should bear the burden of cost.
For many Americans frustrated with rising premiums and complex billing practices, Cuban's approach might offer a starting point for reimagining care.
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

Personal Finance

Mark Cuban Says Patients Should Pay What They Can, And The Government Covers The Rest — With 15-Year Forgiveness

When a Reddit user recently <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Salary/comments/1ldutd5/rant_net_worth_is_much_more_important_than_salary/">posted</a> a rant claiming that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42675663/think-youre-richer-than-your-peers-heres-the-net-worth-you-need-to-rank-among-the-top-10-for-your-age">net worth is more important</a> than salary, it sparked a heated debate. The post criticized people who flaunt six-figure incomes but have little to show for it. The author questioned the value of a high paycheck if it all disappears to debt and lifestyle costs. &#8220;Who cares what you make if you are still broke,&#8221; they wrote.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Net Worth Shows Discipline, Salary Shows Potential</h2>
The poster argued that plenty of six-figure earners live paycheck to paycheck and flex their income despite being buried in debt. &#8220;I would rather make 50k a year and have 250k NW, than 150k a year and be in debt,&#8221; they wrote, adding, &#8220;Having high NW displays financial discipline and competence.&#8221;
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Some people agreed, pointing out that income is only one part of the story. &#8220;I worked with a guy who made over 100k,&#8221; one commenter wrote. &#8220;Refused to save anything, not even 401(k). He bought anything and everything he wanted. He&#8217;s still doing it.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">But High Earners Say They Can Turn Things Around Faster</h2>
Others pushed back, saying a high salary gives you more options and flexibility. &#8220;Give me the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43759794/are-you-a-top-1-earner-heres-what-you-need-to-rake-in-to-be-among-the-richest">high salary</a> and low net worth. Much easier to fix,&#8221; one person said.
Another argued, &#8220;That 150k [salary] can erase debt and build a 250k NW a hell of a lot faster than the 50k / 250k one can increase.&#8221;
A more detailed reply laid out how someone <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/45956996/are-we-being-lied-to-55-year-old-making-150k-says-he-thinks-hes-middle-class-but-everyone-else-appears-to-be-so-much-richer">earning $150,000</a> could contribute aggressively to retirement, get employer matches, and outpace someone with a smaller income within a few years. &#8220;You could waste ALL of your 126.5K minus taxes and end up with a quarter mill in 5 years,&#8221; the commenter explained.
Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Still, Many Agreed It All Comes Down to Habits</h2>
Despite disagreements, one consistent theme emerged: discipline matters more than raw numbers. &#8220;If you have an uncontrollable <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45482962/some-45-of-gen-z-say-theyd-rather-cut-savings-than-give-up-eating-out-have-spending-priorities-gone-off-track">spending problem</a>, it doesn't matter how much you make,&#8221; a user wrote. &#8220;You can make 1 million a year and if you still spend 1.2 million you're an idiot.&#8221;
Another summed it up this way: &#8220;Net worth isn't always a sign of discipline but your post is well taken. If I made a million dollars per year for one year it doesn't make you rich.&#8221;
Several pointed out that net worth often includes illiquid assets like homes, which can inflate the numbers without improving someone's day-to-day finances. &#8220;You can't access your 401(k) without paying a penalty&#8230; unless your net worth is mostly comprised of cash in a mattress, a low salary and high net worth won't increase your buying power,&#8221; one user wrote.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Verdict? It Depends</h2>
In the end, some people argued that the best position is to have both: a strong income and disciplined saving habits. Consistent contributions to your retirement—while increasing the percentage over time— and positive cash flow are even more important, as those will build your net worth over time.
A high income can fuel savings and investment, while net worth provides security when income slows down. Building both and understanding how they support each other is what creates lasting financial stability.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gbr-savings-by-age">If You're Age 35, 50, or 60: Here&#8217;s How Much You Should Have Saved Vs. Invested By Now</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Is Net Worth More Important Than A High Salary? Some Say Yes, Others Argue A High Salary With Low Net Worth Is 'Much Easier To Fix'

In the world of FIRE—that's short for financial independence, retire early—there's a lot of talk about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/45935161/can-you-guess-how-many-people-retire-with-1-million-saved-hint-way-fewer-than-you-think">hitting the $1 million mark</a>. Some aim for more, especially with inflation, rising home costs, and uncertain market returns. But one <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/Fire/s/quhvItrOyT">Reddit user posed a simple question</a> that cut through the big goals and got people thinking smaller:
"What is the smallest amount of money that would be life changing?"
They followed it up with a scenario many can relate to:
"If you were gifted x amount, how would it change your life? To get you closer to a FIRE lifestyle. For example, I often think, if I ‘just had an extra $300k' I could pay off my house and change to part time work."
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</ul>
That number—$300,000—struck a chord. It wasn't just a wild estimate. It was practical, down-to-earth, and repeated over and over.
One user wrote:
"$300k would be the number for life changing for me and my family."
They explained exactly why: "That would mean the last little bit of school debt goes away, selling our current home and moving out of town a ways to a property with at least an acre of land. It means college savings for kids, a little bit of padding to retirement, and two newer used vehicles that aren't 10+ years old."
They added, "I could do all that, probably with a few bucks left over."
Another put it bluntly:
"I don't need millions, just $300k."
Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;
Others went slightly higher. One user said, "$300-400k is probably what it would take for me to seriously reconsider any of my current plans."
One response pegged the minimum closer to $400,000. "Anything less would be great but not life changing." That amount, they said, would allow both partners in the household to semi-retire permanently.
There were some who shot higher. One said they'd need at least $1 million post-tax to feel a real shift in their life. Someone else responded that $500,000 would still mean five more years of work, and only $1 million would bring their timeline closer to two.
A few were stuck in a limbo of liquid assets and fear. One user said they had $120,000 nearly liquid but were still too scared to buy a home. Another said, "$60,000 would be enough for me to make a down payment on a house, which feels like the next big step in life." But they also admitted, "I have 100k saved in the stock market, and I'm just so attached to it at this point."
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The answers were scattered across the map—from $100 for a babysitter and a nice dinner out to $3 million for a stress-free early retirement with part-time work on the side. But $300,000 kept coming up. Not as a dream number, but as a number that felt real enough to change everything—without making anyone rich.
As one person summed it up:
"10k would just be debt. $100 would be a babysitter and a nice dinner out for my wife and I."
So <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44150876/suze-orman-says-youll-likely-spend-350k-a-year-in-retirement-so-save-millions-you-dont-know-how-long-youre-gonna-live">maybe the real benchmark for FIRE</a> isn't just hitting a fat portfolio number. Maybe it's about figuring out what would let you breathe, slow down, or finally move out of a rental and onto your own land.
And for a surprising number of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">people chasing early retirement</a>, that number isn't seven figures—it's $300,000.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gbr-savings-by-age">If You're Age 35, 50, or 60: Here&#8217;s How Much You Should Have Saved Vs. Invested By Now</a>
Image: Shutterstock

'I Don't Need Millions—Just $300K' People Motivated To Retire Early Share The Smallest Amount Of Money They Consider 'Life-Changing'

Four top tech executives have joined the U.S. Army Reserve as lieutenant colonels, skipping basic training and stepping directly into roles aimed at helping modernize the military.&nbsp;
The initiative is part of a broader push by the Army to bring in private-sector innovation and reshape how the service approaches technology, talent, and modernization.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Army Forms Detachment 201 To Bridge Tech And Defense</h2>
The executives—Palantir (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) Chief Technology Officer Shyam Sankar, Meta (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) CTO Andrew Bosworth, OpenAI Chief Product Officer Kevin Weil, and advisor at Thinking Machines Lab and former OpenAI Chief Research Officer Bob McGrew — will serve in a new unit called Detachment 201, also known as the Army's Executive Innovation Corps.
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</ul>
&#8220;Detachment 201 is being created to bring in tech innovation executives to help the Army … on broader conceptual things like talent management, how do we bring in tech-focused people into the ranks of the military, and then, how do we train them,&#8221; Army Chief of Staff spokesperson Col. Dave Butler, told <a href="https://breakingdefense.com/2025/06/anduril-meta-openai-execs-to-commission-into-army-reserve-form-detachment-201/">Breaking Defense</a> on June 13.
Unlike traditional recruits, these executives will not attend boot camp. Instead, they will go through an express training program that covers marksmanship, physical fitness, Army history, and protocols. They will be expected to serve about 120 hours per year and pass annual fitness tests.
&#8220;You could think of it as a pilot&#8221; of a lighter version of basic training, Butler told <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/tech-execs-just-joined-the-army-boot-camp-not-required-2025-6">Business Insider</a>.&nbsp;
The detachment's name, 201, references the HTTP status code indicating a newly created resource—a fitting metaphor for a new kind of Army asset.
Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Not Just Symbolic: Executives Will Advise On Real Projects</h2>
According to an Army <a href="https://www.army.mil/article/286317">statement</a>, the new officers will work on &#8220;targeted projects to help guide rapid and scalable tech solutions to complex problems.&#8221;
Their advisory roles will include input on AI-powered military systems and optimization tools for soldier fitness. However, safeguards will be in place to avoid conflicts of interest with their current or former employers.
&#8220;We've done this over and over when our nation needed top talent,&#8221; Butler told Breaking Defense. &#8220;The difference is we used to do it in wartime. Now we're doing it ahead of wartime so that we can prepare and deter.&#8221;
This marks another move by the Trump administration to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44209697/how-peter-thiel-and-elon-musk-are-shaping-trump-administration">align more closely</a> with Silicon Valley. Palantir, Anduril, and other VC-backed defense tech startups have increasingly become major players in national security. Meta recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/market-summary/25/06/45810158/anduril-raises-2-5-billion-at-30-5-billion-valuation-doubling-in-a-year-as-defense-contracts-grow">partnered with Anduril</a> to develop augmented reality tools and AI systems for military use.
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Historically, direct commissioning has been used to bring in specialized talent, such as doctors or chaplains, during times of war. This move represents a peacetime shift aimed at long-term transformation.
&#8220;Their swearing-in is just the start of a bigger mission to inspire more tech pros to serve without leaving their careers,&#8221; the Army statement said. &#8220;Showing the next generation how to make a difference in uniform.&#8221;
Read Next: How do billionaires pay less in income tax than you?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/tax-deferring-adv"> Tax deferring is their number one strategy</a>.
Image: Shutterstock

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Palantir, Meta, OpenAI, And Thinking Machines Just Had Their Executives Sworn Into The US Army Reserve

Entrepreneur and &#8220;Shark Tank&#8221; investor,&nbsp;Kevin O&#8217;Leary, has expressed concern over the increasing difficulty Americans are experiencing in contributing to their 401(k) plans due to overspending. 
What Happened: Despite acknowledging&nbsp;the importance of 401(k) plans&nbsp;as a retirement savings tool, O&#8217;Leary points out that many Americans are struggling to make significant contributions due to their spending habits. 
He observes that many are living from&nbsp;paycheck to paycheck, burdened by&nbsp;debt, and holding unrealistic expectations of sudden wealth.
As per the report <a href="https://www.thestreet.com/retirement/shark-tanks-kevin-oleary-sounds-alarm-on-401-k-growing-problem">by</a> The Street, O&#8217;Leary proposes a &#8220;90-Day Number&#8221; calculation, which subtracts total expenses from&nbsp;total income over three months. A positive result suggests room for increased 401(k) contributions, while a negative result serves as a wake-up call to reduce spending and budget more effectively.
According to the 2025 first-quarter&nbsp;Household Debt and Credit Report&nbsp;from the Federal Reserve Bank&nbsp;of New York, total U.S.&nbsp;household debt has increased to $18.2 trillion, with credit card balances reaching $1.18 trillion, a 6% increase from the previous year.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41198968/kevin-oleary-told-student-to-pick-business-over-fianc-e-shes-easier-to-replace">Kevin O&#8217;Leary Told Student To Pick Business Over Fiancée: &#8216;She&#8217;s Easier To Replace&#8217;</a>
O&#8217;Leary highlights the peril of credit card debt, describing it as a &#8220;financial cancer&#8221; that impedes&nbsp;the ability to save and&nbsp;invest. He criticizes credit card companies for their high interest rates and argues that their profit model is heavily dependent on&nbsp;consumers who carry a balance&nbsp;month to month.
O&#8217;Leary believes that credit card companies safeguard this high-yield system by making&nbsp;credit easy to obtain and&nbsp;promoting&nbsp;spending behaviors that trap consumers&nbsp;in debt cycles. 
He encourages Americans to&nbsp;prioritize long-term security over short-term&nbsp;gratification and to make conscious financial decisions that will enable them to contribute adequately to their 401(k) plans.
Why It Matters: The rise in household debt and the difficulty in making 401(k) contributions are intertwined issues. The increasing reliance on credit and the cycle of debt it creates are significant barriers to retirement savings. 
O&#8217;Leary&#8217;s warning serves as a reminder of the importance of financial discipline and the need for effective strategies to manage spending and debt. His &#8220;90-Day Number&#8221; proposal is a practical tool that can help individuals assess their financial health and make necessary adjustments to their spending habits. 
This is crucial in ensuring long-term financial security and the ability to contribute to retirement savings.
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Kevin O'Leary Highlights Growing Concern Over 401(k) Contributions Amid Rising Household Debt

After spending time in multiple career-related subreddits, one Reddit user had a realization that registered with people: Reddit sometimes makes the job market look worse than it really is.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Reddit Isn&#8217;t The Full Picture</h2>
&#8220;I've been <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45184505/she-earns-130k-on-onlyfans-and-has-a-masters-degree-in-business-still-shes-looking-to-switch-careers-because-the-job-is-boring">trying to switch careers</a> recently and joined a bunch of subreddits — tech, healthcare, education, engineering, etc.,&#8221; the original poster <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/jobs/comments/1levt2q/reddit_makes_it_seem_like_literally_every_job_is/">wrote</a>. &#8220;And in every single one, it's the same thing: &#8216;No jobs&#8217; &#8216;The market is dead&#8217; &#8216;Everything's saturated&#8217; &#8216;You should've started 10 years ago&#8217;.&#8221;
But they pushed back on the despair. &#8220;People get hired every single day. That's a fact,&#8221; they said. &#8220;The people who are getting jobs aren't posting here. The ones who are stuck are the ones who are venting.&#8221;
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Their perspective resonated, especially as others chimed in with their experiences. &#8220;I <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44408726/got-laid-off-so-i-went-all-in-on-living-frugally-redditor-shares-how-they-saved-big-and-why-these-tips-may-be-more-important-than-ever">got laid off</a> at the beginning of the year and was terrified because I'm here lurking a lot,&#8221; one person commented. &#8220;Luckily, I'm pretty good at interviewing and landed a [work-from-home] job maybe two weeks after. I never posted about how fast I was able to find work, so what you say is true.&#8221;
Others said the negativity isn&#8217;t universal across fields. &#8220;Tech jobs in education, medical, and finance are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45671051/as-unemployment-trends-upwards-these-college-majors-offer-the-best-job-prospects">booming right now</a>. I moved companies earlier this year and did not have any trouble finding another fully remote position for a significant raise,&#8221; one person added.
Still, the thread also highlighted the brutal side of the market. Many shared long stretches of unemployment and feelings of defeat. One mid-level developer said they&#8217;d sent out over 100 applications in four weeks and heard back from only five. &#8220;I&#8217;m not the best interviewee and am a poster child for, &#8216;if it wasn&#8217;t for bad luck, I&#8217;d have no luck at all.'&#8221;
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New graduates, in particular, seemed to bear the brunt of the pain. &#8220;Some have literally been unemployed for 2-3 years now,&#8221; another person said of recent tech grads. &#8220;One of [my friends] is a camp counselor at a coding camp. The other, working IT at a warehousing startup.&#8221; He described them as &#8220;Smart kids, high 90's in HS and 3.8 and above GPA in university.&#8221;
The nursing and teaching sectors drew mixed responses. Many users acknowledged that these fields continue to experience high demand due to staffing shortages, burnout, and high turnover. However, some pointed out that employers often prefer experienced workers, leaving recent graduates <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/education/25/06/46007465/jamie-dimon-sounds-alarm-on-skills-gap-calls-for-overhaul-of-us-education-system">without opportunities</a> to gain that very experience.&nbsp;
Others emphasized how working conditions and pay in these sectors contribute to why positions remain unfilled, with some describing the workload and pressure as overwhelming despite the steady demand for workers.
Reddit&#8217;s tendency to skew toward doom and gloom was a recurring point. &#8220;Reddit as a collective has the mentality of a depressed 16-year-old. It definitely shouldn&#8217;t be used as a barometer for anything,&#8221; one person joked. Another added, &#8220;It's like reading reviews on Amazon. People only post something negative, while positive is rarely posted.&#8221;
See Also: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;
In the end, the original poster urged job seekers to stay the course. &#8220;Don't let [Reddit] convince you that nothing is working anywhere for anyone. That's just not true. If you're feeling discouraged, I get it. But keep going. You're probably doing better than you think.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">May's Job Market Data</h2>
Recent <a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm">data</a> from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics paints a mixed yet still functional employment picture. In May, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/45812372/us-labor-markets-defies-tariff-concerns-as-nonfarm-payrolls-wages-top-expectations-in-may">employers added 139,000</a> nonfarm payroll jobs, keeping the unemployment rate steady at 4.2%. Job gains were led by health care, leisure and hospitality and social assistance.&nbsp;
While federal government payrolls declined, private-sector hiring continued. Though slower than prior months, growth continues, supporting the idea that &#8220;people get hired every single day.&#8221;
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>
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