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Now that Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco are engaged – just 18 months after they started dating – they'll have to decide which of the bride's mansions they'll call home.
In a post captioned "Forever begins now," the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/09/40758541/selena-gomez-enters-billionaire-club-thanks-to-rare-beautys-triumph">32-year-old singer</a> shared her happy news on Instagram, posting photos showing her embracing her fiance while showing off her diamond ring, according to The New York Post.
Gomez and Blanco, a renowned record producer, began dating in 2023 after years of collaborating on various music projects. Their partnership eventually evolved into a romantic relationship.
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Since the start of their relationship, Gomez, a former Disney star, has reached new heights professionally. This fall, she joined the exclusive billionaire club, largely thanks to the success of her <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/24/04/38113933/serena-williams-launches-a-new-company-that-shes-been-working-on-for-6-years">Rare Beauty</a> brand, now valued at $2 billion.
Gomez continues to dominate on social media, becoming the most-followed woman on Instagram with 423 million followers.
With their engagement now official, the couple must decide which of their mansions will serve as their marital home.
Read on to see their options.
See Also: Unlock the hidden potential of commercial real estate —<a href="https://equitymultiple.com/benzinga?invite=benzinga&amp;utm_campaign=product-promotion-earn&amp;utm_source=yahooFinance&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_content=unlockboost-yahoo"> This platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Encino</h2>
In 2020, Gomez purchased a Southern California property once owned by fellow musician Tom Petty for $4.9 million.
The 9,000-square-foot Encino estate, custom-built in 1989, boasts unique features that likely appealed to Gomez. However, Petty moved out after his divorce in 1996. Traces of his legacy remain, including a recording studio and sunken performance space – perfect touches for a singer like Gomez.
The five-bedroom mansion offers soaring ceilings and a gourmet kitchen, while its lower level includes a wine cellar, gym, massage room, creative workspace, additional kitchen, vocal booth, den and a guest suite.
Trending: Wondering if your investments can get you to a $5,000,000 nest egg? Speak to a financial advisor today.<a href="https://smartasset.com/retirement/find-a-financial-planner?utm_source=benzinga&amp;utm_campaign=ben&amp;utm_content=y2_5MilNestEgg"> SmartAsset&#8217;s free tool matches you up with up to three vetted financial advisors who serve your area, and you can interview your advisor matches at no cost</a> to decide which one is right for you.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Woodland Hills</h2>
Another potential home for the newly engaged couple is a charming property Gomez purchased in 2017 for $1.8 million.
Built in 1949, the private, gated estate sits on half an acre and spans 3,500 square feet, featuring four bedrooms and four bathrooms. The home boasts hardwood floors, a wood-burning fireplace in the living room and abundant natural light.
The modern kitchen includes Wolf appliances and quartz countertops, while the family room features a home theater, wood-beamed ceilings and built-ins. The primary suite offers a spacious walk-in closet, a cozy fireplace and a spa-like bathroom with a rainfall shower and jetted tub.
The outdoor amenities are just as impressive, with a pool, fire pit and outdoor kitchen.
Trending: This Jeff Bezos-backed startup will allow you to <a href="https://arrivedhomes.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=15&amp;aff_id=1006&amp;aff_sub=yahoo&amp;aff_sub2=byerscta100">become a landlord in just 10 minutes, with minimum investments as low as $100 for properties like the Byer House from Stranger Things.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New York City</h2>
Blanco, a songwriter and producer known for collaborating with stars like Katy Perry, Justin Bieber and Ed Sheeran, has been trying to sell his New York City apartment. Blanco, whose real name is Benjamin Joseph Levin, purchased the three-bedroom Chelsea loft in 2011 for $3.4 million.
Initially listed for nearly $4 million in May, the property has seen a price reduction to $3.75 million after failing to attract buyers. The fully renovated condo is in a coveted corner location and has 11-foot ceilings and southeast-facing windows that flood the space with light.
The compact kitchen with a breakfast bar opens seamlessly to the main living area. The building&#8217;s residents enjoy an array of amenities, including 24/7 door attendants, concierge services, a gym, a roof deck and a children's playroom.
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Real Estate

Selena Gomez And Benny Blanco To Tie The Knot, But Which Mansion Will Be Home Sweet Home?

Regarding selling luxury cars, brands like Ferrari (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RACE#NYSE">RACE</a>), Rolls-Royce and Maserati use strategies that are as extravagant as their vehicles. These automakers know how to make their cars irresistible – and sometimes even make their customers feel like they're getting a deal when doing the company's work for them.
Take Ferrari, for instance. A prominent marketing expert, Rory Sutherland, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcjAFJu39Ok">pointed out</a> how the brand has devised a smart way to shift delivery costs onto its customers while framing it as an exclusive experience. The company can deliver a Ferrari to your local dealership for free if you buy it. But for around £500 ($630), you can opt for a &#8220;factory tour&#8221; in Maranello, Italy, where you pick up your car and drive it home at your own cost.&nbsp;
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Customers willingly pay to collect their cars because the experience is marketed as a unique privilege. It looks like a brilliant psychological play that makes customers feel special while cutting Ferrari's costs.
Meanwhile, according to Sutherland, Rolls-Royce and Maserati took a different approach to make their luxury cars seem like impulse buys. Instead of showcasing their vehicles at traditional car shows – where their high price tags stand out – they moved to yacht and private jet shows. The logic? If you've spent all day looking at multimillion-dollar yachts and jets, a $250,000 car suddenly feels like a much smaller expense – an impulse buy.
See Also: It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $70 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a>
Ferrari is also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/07/39935966/ferrari-revs-up-crypto-payments-in-europe-expanding-on-us-success">making bold moves into cryptocurrency payments</a>. After successfully rolling out crypto payments in the U.S., the brand expanded the option to Europe in July. Partnering with BitPay, Ferrari now accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum and USD Coin for its cars, instantly converting the payments to traditional currency. According to the company&#8217;s representative, this was done in response to consumer demand and to suit the tastes of their affluent, tech-savvy audience. By the end of 2024, Ferrari plans to offer crypto payments globally where legally permitted.
Ferrari isn't stopping there. The brand is gearing up to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38984035/ferrari-aims-to-challenge-tesla-with-launch-of-electric-supercar-in-2025">launch its first electric supercar</a> in the fourth quarter of 2025. Ferrari ensures its EVs maintain the brand&#8217;s signature appeal with a new factory in Maranello dedicated to hybrid and electric vehicles and a state-of-the-art lithium battery research lab.
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CEO Benedetto Vigna is reinventing the sound of electric motors to preserve the classic sensory experience of driving a Ferrari. Ferrari is placing a big bet on strong consumer interest across age groups to compete with market leaders like Tesla.
Even as Ferrari accelerates into the future, its financial performance remains strong. The automaker reported an 11% year-over-year sales growth in Q1 2024, bringing in $1.72 billion in revenue. Shipments held steady at 3,560 units and Ferrari is on track for fiscal 2024 net revenues exceeding €6.4 billion.
Whether paying to pick up your car, splurging on a $250,000 vehicle after looking at luxury yachts or buying a Ferrari with Bitcoin, one thing stands out: luxury car brands know how to keep people coming back. They use smart strategies, cool technology and new financial trends to stay ahead in the world of high-end cars.
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News

RACE

Ferrari Devised A Clever Way To Play Customers, But Rolls-Royce And Maserati Took A Different Route – 'A $250,000 Car Is An Impulse Buy'

<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New On The Block</h2>
Honeywell (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HON#NASDAQ">HON</a>) is back at it again with big plans and boardroom brainstorms. This time, the Charlotte, North Carolina-based company is considering sending its aerospace business <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/asset-sales/24/12/42505835/honeywell-advances-strategic-review-explores-aerospace-business-separation">off to fly solo</a>. Recently, Honeywell unveiled plans to spin off its Advanced Materials business into a standalone public company by late 2025 or early 2026. Additionally, the company is selling its Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) business to Protective Industrial Products for $<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42140202/honeywell-to-exit-ppe-business-with-1325-billion-sale-plans-advanced-materials-spinoff">1.325 billion in cash</a>.
Textron Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TXT#NYSE">TXT</a>) has decided it's time to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/guidance/24/12/42558931/textron-hits-the-brakes-on-powersports-strategic-shift-amid-soft-demand">hit the brakes on</a> its Powersports product line, part of the Industrial segment&#8217;s Textron Specialized Vehicles business. The segment manufactures snowmobiles and off-road vehicles under the Arctic Cat label. Deere &amp; Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DE#NYSE">DE</a>) is rumored to be interested in acquiring it. Textron expects to wrap up its restructuring in the first half of the new year.
DLocal, a Latin American payments provider with a market value of about $3.6 billion, is on the auction block. The Montevideo, Uruguay-based company hired Morgan Stanley to gauge takeover offers from bidders. Private equity firm General Atlantic is DLocal&#8217;s largest shareholder.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Updates From The Block</h2>
The European Commission <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/24/12/42621868/nvidia-secures-eu-approval-for-runai-deal-us-probes-china-export-breach">granted unconditional approval</a> for Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) to acquire Run:ai Labs Ltd, an Israel-based provider of GPU orchestration software. The decision under the EU Merger Regulation concluded the acquisition would not raise competition concerns within the European Economic Area. Nvidia aims to integrate Run: ai&#8217;s software into its ecosystem. Run:ai specializes in software that helps organizations optimize and manage their artificial intelligence compute workloads across various environments, including on-premises and cloud platforms.
Soho House's billionaire chairman Ron Burkle wants to whisk the private members' club away from the U.S. stock market. Burkle and his squad of investors have thrown down a flashy <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42597812/soho-house-jumps-over-50-on-receiving-acquisition-offer-with-83-premium">$1.8 billion buyout bid</a>, offering $9 per share—a snazzy 83% premium to the stock&#8217;s closing price on Wednesday, Dec. 18. This isn't Soho House's first flirtation with delisting. Just a few months ago, it turned down a mysterious suitor's offer.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Off The Block</h2>
Chevron Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVX#NYSE">CVX</a>) and Woodside Energy Group Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WDS#NYSE">WDS</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/contracts/24/12/42584936/chevron-secures-larger-north-west-shelf-stake-in-asset-swap-400m-payment-to-woodside">finalized an asset swap deal</a> on Wednesday. As part of the agreement, Woodside will transfer its 13% non-operated interest in the Wheatstone Project and its 65% operated interest in the Julimar-Brunello Project in Western Australia. In return, Woodside will acquire Chevron&#8217;s 16.67% stakes in the North West Shelf Project and the NWS Oil Project, along with a 20% interest in the Angel Carbon Capture and Storage Project. Additionally, Chevron will make a cash payment to Woodside of up to $400 million. This includes a $300 million payment at completion, and contingency payments of up to $100 million, tied to the handover of the Julimar Phase 3 Project and subsequent production performance.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bankruptcy Block</h2>
Furnishing and retailer Big Lots Inc.&#8216;s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in September and impending store closures could benefit rival Ollie&#8217;s Bargain Outlet Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OLLI#NASDAQ">OLLI</a>), JPMorgan analyst Matthew R. Boss says. On Sept. 9, Big Lots filed for Chapter 11 and announced a subsequent sale of its assets to Nexus Capital Management LP. The company&#8217;s stock was subsequently delisted from the New York Stock Exchange. Its third-quarter financial report revealed a company struggling with declining sales, eroding margins and a continual bleeding of cash. On Dec. 19, the Columbus, Ohio-based company said its sale to Nexus Capital fell through, noting it &#8220;continues to work toward completing an alternative going concern transaction with Nexus or another party.&#8221; CEO Bruce Thorn announced a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42624759/big-lots-holds-liquidation-sales-analyst-pegs-competitor-as-major-beneficiary-market-share-capture-opportunity">going-out-of-business sale</a>.
FTX announced that its<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42151412/bankrupt-crypto-exchange-ftx-to-commence-payments-to-customers-creditors-in-early-2025"> Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization plan</a> will become effective on Jan. 3, 2025. Customer and creditor distributions will be facilitated through partnerships with cryptocurrency platforms Kraken and BitGo. The first round of distributions is expected to occur within 60 days of the plan's effective date. The initial distribution will cover holders of allowed claims in the Convenience Classes, while timelines for other claim classes will be announced later.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Notes From The Block</h2>
Benzinga recently interviewed Tony Roma&#8217;s CEO Mohaimina (Mina) Haque on a variety of topics, including the restaurant chain&#8217;s capital raising initiatives:
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">BZ: What's the global stage look like?</h3>
There's a lot of interest globally. We are in Dubai and Berlin as well as Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia and Perth, Australia. There is a lot of brand awareness. Stateside, as Gen Z and millennials were growing up, there was a decrease in unit size. So, we are working on building that bridge between those who are nostalgic for Tony Roma's and those who haven't experienced it yet. There are challenges, including the supply chain and ensuring that franchise partners uphold our intellectual property.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">BZ: Is M&amp;A still on the cards?</h3>
It is a possibility. We have parties interested in helping us to expand our global and national footprint. So, it's still in the cards, with either a venture capital or private equity firm. For anyone interested and who wants to see more explosive growth for the company, we are looking for partners capable of heavy capital infusion.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">BZ: What size investment do you think would you go to ballpark it?</h3>
If I have to ballpark it, maybe somewhere between $10 million and $20 million
For the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/12/42553401/comfort-food-comeback-how-mina-haque-plans-to-make-tony-romas-sizzle-again">full Q&amp;A, click here</a>.
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Deal Dispatch: Honeywell, Textron And Soho House Are Making M&A Moves

House conservatives are pressuring Speaker Mike Johnson after a rocky week of negotiations and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42624528/government-shutdown-threat-stocks-wobble-holiday-travel-and-paychecks-could-face-delays-what-you-need-to-know" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">infighting over a government spending bill</a>.
Johnson, who narrowly avoided a government shutdown, now faces intense scrutiny from his party with a speakership vote looming in two weeks, <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2024/12/20/johnson-unsteady-speakership-time-00195784" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> Politico.
The Louisiana Republican is caught between President-elect Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and the right wing of his party, and many in his conference are not satisfied with his leadership.
A few members have already vowed to oppose him, and others are openly questioning his ability to lead, especially after the contentious spending battle.
The conflict over the spending bill put Johnson at odds with several key figures, including Trump, who publicly criticized the funding plan before Johnson switched strategies.
Critics, including members of the Freedom Caucus, expressed frustration over the lack of communication and poor handling of the bill. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis (R-N.Y.), a moderate, described the leadership&#8217;s actions as &#8220;completely unacceptable&#8221; and said there was &#8220;zero communication&#8221; between the leadership and members, Politico adds.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42635098/senate-avoids-shutdown-with-last-minute-deal-amid-trumps-debt-ceiling-demands" rel="noreferrer noopener">Senate Avoids Shutdown With Last-Minute Deal Amid Trump&#8217;s Debt Ceiling Demands</a>
Others, like Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), have vowed to wait until January 3 to announce how they will vote on Johnson's speakership, reflecting the uncertainty about his future in the role.
Johnson did manage to get the spending bill passed with a relatively small number of defections, but the damage to his credibility may be long-lasting.
The incident has become a test of his ability to manage the fractious Republican conference, especially as the party looks to push ambitious legislation on the border and energy early in the new Congress, the report reads.
For many Republicans, Johnson's handling of this crisis will set the tone for how he leads in the future.
Some members believe Johnson still has a chance to rebuild his support, though the challenge remains formidable. If the situation doesn't improve, Johnson may face a leadership challenge, with names like Jim Jordan and Tom Emmer being floated as potential replacements.
Despite the turmoil, Johnson does have some allies, particularly within the House Freedom Caucus, who appreciate his fight to implement the Trump agenda.
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Equities

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General

Johnson Averts Shutdown But Faces Growing Pressure From Right

Peter Buffett, son of billionaire investor&nbsp;Warren Buffett, made a life-changing decision 47 years ago when he traded his inheritance to &#8220;buy time." Although he missed out on what would have been hundreds of millions of dollars in profit, he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/warren-buffett">stands by his decision</a>.
Finding His Path:&nbsp;At 19, Buffett received a portion of the proceeds from the sale of his grandfather's farm, which his father invested in Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/brk-a#NYSE">BRK-A</a>) (NYSE:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/brk-b#NYSE">BRK-B</a>), amounting to $90,000, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2020/05/07/warren-buffett-son-doesnt-regret-spending-berkshire-stock-he-got-at-19-worth-200-million-now.html?utm_campaign=trueanthem&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=facebook&amp;fbclid=IwAR2ltNtAQUUEhAViImalKNS2NdjCrlgyZxhj00Z4cr2TZQJm1mqBy-thwSY">CNBC</a>. His father made it clear that this was all the financial support he would receive for personal use. Despite knowing it was his entire inheritance, Peter sold his Berkshire stock to fund his passion for music.
Buffett dropped out of Stanford University, purchased a modest studio apartment in San Francisco, and invested in upgrading his recording equipment. He dedicated his time to honing his piano and music production skills.
His big break came unexpectedly when a neighbor asked him about his profession, setting him on the path to a successful career in music.
He told the neighbor that he was a "struggling composer" and the neighbor offered to introduce him to his son-in-law who was an animator looking for ad tunes for a new cable station — it turned out to be&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mtv">MTV</a>.&nbsp;
Buffett is now 66 years of age and has released around 15&nbsp;studio albums over his successful career.&nbsp;
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42558080/warren-buffett-says-the-poorest-2-of-earners-live-better-than-john-d-rockefeller-richest-man-in-the-world-people-have-more-money-now">Warren Buffett Says The Poorest 2% Of Earners Live Better Than John D. Rockefeller – Richest Man In The World: &#8216;People Have More Money Now&#8217;</a>
The Path Not Taken:&nbsp;If the son of the legendary investor would have stayed in college and held onto his $90,000&nbsp;investment in Berkshire Hathaway, it would be worth over $400 million today.&nbsp;
"But I didn&#8217;t make that choice and I don&#8217;t regret it for a second.&nbsp;I used my nest egg to buy something infinitely more valuable than money: I used it to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/04/31687018/couple-uses-huge-airbnb-profits-to-buy-time-they-only-spend-1-hour-working-per-week">buy time</a>," Buffett said.&nbsp;
That's a decision that his father would be proud of, he noted. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/billionaires">billionaire</a>&nbsp;taught his son that work isn't about making as much money as possible, instead it's about doing something that you love to do.
Buffett acknowledged that the money was a privilege, calling it a gift that he had not earned.
&#8220;Without those hundreds of unpaid hours spent fiddling with my recording gear, I would not have found my sound or approach," Buffett said.&nbsp;
The musician used the money to buy time to pursue something that he enjoys waking up and doing&nbsp;each day, which is exactly what his father tells young people to do. The billionaire has previously recommended that people pursue careers they would want even if money was not part of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/03/31592697/if-you-want-to-move-forward-and-make-better-decisions-you-need-to-remember-these-3-words">decision-making process</a>.&nbsp;
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This story is part of a new series of features on the subject of success,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/benzinga-inspire">Benzinga Inspire</a>.&nbsp;Some elements of this story were previously reported by Benzinga and it has been updated.
Photo: Shutterstock

Success Stories

Warren Buffett's Son's $90K Inheritance Would Be Worth More Than $400 Million Today, But He Sold His Berkshire Stock 47 Years Ago To Buy Something 'Infinitely More Valuable'

Google (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) has reduced its top management roles by 10% as part of a multi-year effort to streamline operations <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/09/34392201/google-salary-leak-reveals-mind-blowing-earnings-top-engineers-make">and boost efficiency</a>.
What Happened: On Wednesday, CEO Sundar Pichai revealed during an all-hands meeting that the move reflects Google&#8217;s broader push to simplify its structure and adapt to a rapidly evolving tech landscape.
According to employees who attended the meeting, Pichai explained that the efficiency drive included changes to managerial, director, and vice president roles. 
Some positions were restructured to nonmanagerial roles, while others were eliminated entirely. The changes align with Pichai's 2022 statement that he wanted the company to become "20% more efficient," a goal that resulted in 12,000 layoffs in January of this year. 
According to the report <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/google-ceo-company-cut-manager-vp-roles-2024-12">by</a> Business Insider, Google&#8217;s pursuit of efficiency comes as competition intensifies in the artificial intelligence space, with rivals like OpenAI launching products that challenge Google's dominance in search.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42378596/openais-chatgpt-makes-headway-in-search-threatening-googles-reign">OpenAI&#8217;s ChatGPT Makes Headway In Search, Threatening Google&#8217;s Reign</a>
In response, Google has infused generative AI into its core services and unveiled innovations such as a new AI video generator and its Gemini AI models, including a "reasoning" model designed to showcase its thought process.
During the meeting, Pichai also addressed Google's cultural identity, discussing the term &#8220;Googleyness,&#8221; which he said needed an update to reflect the company&#8217;s modern values and direction. 
The term has long been associated with Google's work culture, and its evolution signals the company's commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly changing industry.
As Google continues its efficiency drive and AI innovation efforts, it remains a key player in shaping the future of technology while adapting its structure and culture for the challenges ahead.
Read Next
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Tech

GOOGL

Google Announces Major Layoffs As Pichai Stresses Efficiency

Peter Lynch, a renowned investor and former fund manager of the Magellan Fund at Fidelity Investments, achieved a legendary compound annual return of 29% during the 1980s. 
What Happened: In a 1997 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myu4Nv0pt0U">speech</a>, Lynch shared key principles from his 25-year career that guided his success. He emphasized that these principles were timeless, applicable then, now, and for decades to come. Below are three of his essential investing lessons.
Lynch advises against bias towards specific stocks or industries. He emphasizes that great investment opportunities can be found in unexpected places, including companies facing bankruptcy or skepticism. 
&#8220;There are great stocks everywhere, even those in bankruptcy or close to it. Often times great investments are the ones where everyone else will think you are crazy,&#8221; Lynch said during his speech. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42499608/investment-guru-peter-lynch-if-you-cant-explain-to-an-11-year-old-in-2-minutes-or-less-why-you-own-t">Investment Guru Peter Lynch: &#8216;If You Can&#8217;t Explain To An 11-Year-Old In 2 Minutes Or Less Why You Own The Stock, You Shouldn&#8217;t Own It&#8217;</a>
Lynch recommends documenting the reasons for purchasing a stock. If those reasons no longer apply due to changes in the company's story, it may be time to sell. &#8220;When the story changes, the investment thesis changes,&#8221; he asserts.
A critical point Lynch underscores is that a stock dropping significantly doesn't mean it won't fall further. &#8220;Stocks can always go lower,&#8221; he warns, citing the example of Polaroid, which plummeted from $140 to $18 over nine months. He also cautions against assuming stocks will rebound solely because they've declined.
&#8220;Stocks also don't have to bounce back just because they went down,&#8221; he added. 
Why It Matters: These principles highlight Lynch's disciplined and thoughtful approach to investing, which continues to inspire investors today.
Lynch's principles offer timeless guidance for investors at all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals. His focus on deeply understanding the business, prioritizing individual stock analysis, and exercising patience mirrors the strategies of legendary investors like Warren Buffett.
These insights serve as a powerful reminder that true success in investing comes not from chasing short-term gains but from making well-informed decisions and committing to a long-term
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Stock Split

Investment Guru Peter Lynch: 'Often Great Investments Are The Ones Where Everyone Else Will Think You Are Crazy'

Mary Trump, niece of President-elect Donald Trump and one of his most vocal critics, has issued a stark warning about what to expect from her uncle's second administration. 
What Happened: Speaking on the podcast by The Daily Beast, Mary Trump referred to the upcoming presidency as a "regime" and described it as more dangerous than his first term.
During <a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/why-trumps-niece-is-even-more-afraid-for-his-second-term/">the</a> interview, Mary Trump argued that the incoming administration, which she described as a "lame duck," will see Donald Trump "unleashed" because he will not face the pressures of reelection.
"He's not running for reelection. He doesn't have to play any games. He doesn't have to stay within the lines," she said, emphasizing that the lack of accountability could lead to more extreme policies and actions.
She said, &#8220;Trump&#8217;s presidency already is more dangerous than the first one as we see by his appointments and his nominations to key positions in the executive branch and then Cabinet positions."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42497190/mary-trump-slams-uncle-over-anti-birthright-citizenship-stance-a-deeply-ignorant-cruel-man">Mary Trump Slams Uncle Over Anti-Birthright Citizenship Stance: &#8216;A Deeply Ignorant, Cruel Man&#8217;</a>
She pointed to Trump's controversial Cabinet and executive branch nominations as evidence of the potential dangers. 
These include Pete Hegseth, a Fox News personality tapped for the Pentagon, and anti-vaccine advocate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been nominated to lead the Department of Health and Human Services. 
Mary Trump characterized these appointments as alarming signs of the administration's direction.
"The most depressing thing," she said, "is that everybody in corporate media, everybody in the Republican Party, and a significant percentage of Donald's voters knew it was going to be more dangerous, and yet, here we are."
Mary Trump's comments underscore concerns among critics about the implications of Donald Trump's second term, which they believe could dramatically reshape key aspects of governance and policy.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Image: Wikimedia Commons

Mary Trump's Warning: Donald Trump's Second Term 'Already Is More Dangerous Than the First'

As <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41857278/iranian-plot-against-trump-unveiled-as-tensions-with-us-grow">political tensions</a> rise in the United States, a unique opportunity is catching the attention of election-weary travelers. Villa Vie Residences, a Florida-based cruise company, offers a multiyear global adventure aboard its luxury vessel, the Villa Vie Odyssey. Dubbed the "Skip Forward" program in a press release from Villa Vie, the cruise is part of a 15-year worldwide journey that allows travelers to hop on or off at various ports, providing a way to "escape from reality."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Floating Escape</h2>
Villa Vie's "Skip Forward" program offers a four-year continuous voyage to over 425 ports in 140 countries across all seven continents. Villa Vie's website lists prices starting at $159,999 per person for a four-year double-occupancy cabin, with options for shorter durations. Travelers seeking more affordable arrangements can book smaller segments of the "hop on hop off" cruise – a few months out of the planned itinerary – for anywhere from $8,344 and up. Alternatively, the premium double-occupancy ocean-view cabins total $350,000 for the full four-year term.
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Villa Vie's website also lists that the program includes accommodations, meals, housekeeping, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41061483/spacexs-starlink-now-connects-4m-customers-with-more-than-6k-operational-satellites-adds-a-million-u">high-speed Starlink internet</a> and even limited alcoholic beverages during dinner. Guests also enjoy wellness classes, fitness facilities and opportunities to invite friends or family to join for $129 per day. Villa Vie touts the cruise as an "all-inclusive" lifestyle, eliminating concerns about hidden fees or additional taxes.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Highlights of the Itinerary</h2>
The Odyssey's route promises an immersive exploration of global wonders. Currently sailing through the Caribbean, the ship will conclude the year in Guayaquil, Ecuador, before embarking on a four-month South American tour. Highlights include transits through the Panama Canal, a visit to Rio de Janeiro's Carnival and an eight-day journey along the Amazon River. Travelers will also experience iconic landmarks such as the Chilean Fjords and a sail-by of Antarctica.
According to Mikael Petterson, CEO of Villa Vie Residences, the program was conceived before the recent <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/42444997/biden-harris-and-trump-campaigns-responsible-for-more-than-6-billion-ad-impressions-combined-on-meta">U.S. presidential election</a>. "Quite frankly, we don't have a political view one way or the other," Petterson told Newsweek. "We just wanted to give people who feel threatened a way to get out."
See Also: The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gameflip"> for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Rising Trend in Extended Travel</h2>
Villa Vie's offer is part of a broader trend among travel companies responding to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/42023971/after-the-election-americans-are-exploring-life-abroad-but-what-are-the-financial-costs">heightened interest in leaving the U.S.</a> following the recent election. Google searches for phrases like "how to move" and "work visa" surged by more than 500% after Election Day, reminiscent of similar spikes after the 2016 election. While few Americans make permanent moves abroad – data from CNN shows that only about 2,000 applied for residency in Canada after the 2016 election – the growing availability of digital nomad visas and extended travel options offers alternative avenues for long-term escapes.
The "Skip Forward" program aligns with these trends, positioning itself as a cost-effective alternative to urban living. According to The Street, the annual cost of the cruise is comparable to or less than renting in cities like New York or Los Angeles.&nbsp;
"Your villa is your bedroom and the ship is your home," said Anne Alms, Villa Vie's Head of Sales, in Villa Vie's press release. "She'll take you across the globe to endless horizons."
Trending: It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $70 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Flexibility and Adventure</h2>
Villa Vie's emphasis on flexibility allows travelers to customize their experience. Whether booking a one-year "Escape from Reality" or committing to the full four-year "Skip Forward," passengers can join or leave the cruise at various ports. The company highlights this adaptability as a key feature of its offering, making it a compelling option for those seeking adventure and comfort.
As the Villa Vie Odyssey continues its 15-year global journey, its promise of cultural immersion and hassle-free living appeals to those eager to explore the world or leave behind the political stresses of home. Prospective adventurers can contact Villa Vie Residences or visit their website to book a consultation.
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Startups

'Skip Forward': Cruise Company Markets $159K 4-Year World Tour To Election-Weary Travelers

The alleged murderer of UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) CEO Brian Thompson has been transferred to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York. 
What Happened: The detention facility is also home to high-profile inmates, including convicted crypto fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried, who is serving a 25-year sentence for his role in the collapse of the FTX cryptocurrency exchange.
Luigi Mangione, 26, is accused of planning and executing the fatal shooting of Thompson on December 4 in New York City. The public murder shocked the city and sparked a days-long manhunt before Mangione was arrested at a McDonald's in Altoona, Pennsylvania. Prosecutors allege Mangione planned the attack for months, motivated by his disdain for the U.S. healthcare system. 
According to the report <a href="https://apnews.com/article/unitedhealthcare-ceo-killing-luigi-mangione-4cc18cfa71b96aaa39b321f60145d2f0">by</a> the Associated Press, Mangione now shares the Metropolitan Detention Center with Bankman-Fried, whose fraudulent management of FTX led to the crypto platform's bankruptcy in November 2022, wiping out billions of dollars.
The jail has also recently housed music producer Sean "Diddy" Combs, who faces racketeering and sex trafficking charges. Combs reportedly shared space with Bankman-Fried and used one of the disgraced crypto mogul's attorneys, according to court filings.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42512814/luigi-mangione-lived-a-privileged-life-of-real-estate-wealth-before-arrest-in-ceo-case">Luigi Mangione Lived a Privileged Life Of Real Estate Wealth Before Arrest In CEO Case</a>
Bankman-Fried's fall from grace came after FTX, once a leading cryptocurrency exchange, went bankrupt due to what prosecutors called criminal mismanagement. The platform had allowed users to trade digital coins and tokens, but its rapid collapse left many investors in financial ruin.
Meanwhile, Mangione faces charges of premeditated murder, with prosecutors painting him as a calculated individual whose actions stemmed from long-standing contempt for the healthcare industry. 
As the case unfolds, Mangione's transfer to the Brooklyn jail adds another layer of intrigue to the detention center's high-profile roster of inmates.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Legal

Luigi Mangione Lands In Same Brooklyn Jail As Diddy And FTX's Bankman-Fried

The cryptocurrency market has shown resilience following a significant downturn, with Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42254813/shiba-inu-burn-skyrockets-7400-nearly-2b-tokens-destroyed">leading the recovery</a>.
What Happened: A prominent market analyst predicts the dog-themed token could achieve a massive 235% rise, reaching a new yearly high of $0.00005816.
The broader crypto market faced turbulence earlier this week, as Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) plunged over 10% in two days, causing a ripple effect across altcoins. 
Shiba Inu retraced to a key support level around $0.0000185 during this period. However, SHIB has rebounded impressively, surging 28% from its lows and trading above $0.0002216 as of Saturday morning. According to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga </a>Pro, It is almost up by 9% in the last 24 hours. 
Renowned analyst Dollars Maker <a href="https://www.tradingview.com/u/Dollars_Maker/">shared</a> a bullish outlook on Shiba Inu in a recent TradingView post. He noted that the token has further upside potential, outlining three ambitious price targets. According to Dollars Maker, SHIB could first see a 92% increase to $0.00003339, followed by a 163% surge to $0.00004566.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42256519/shiba-inu-soars-to-eight-month-high-up-13-as-meme-coins-rally" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shiba Inu Soars To Eight-Month High, Up 13% as Meme Coins Rally</a>
Ultimately, the analyst predicts SHIB will achieve a 235% spike, hitting $0.00005816. This would surpass its previous high of $0.000045 recorded in March 2024, but no specific timeline was provided for this projection.
Shiba Inu's recent recovery and growing optimism among analysts suggest that the token may be gearing up for significant gains, making it a focal point for crypto enthusiasts in the weeks ahead.
The meme coin surged by 208% so far in 2024, catapulting its market capitalization to $18.28 billion.
According to data from&nbsp;Benzinga, SHIB's market cap has been steadily increasing since September, with capital&nbsp;inflow into the Shiba Inu&nbsp;network propelling the ecosystem's market cap&nbsp;from $7.57 billion in the&nbsp;first week of September to&nbsp;$19.41 billion as of December&nbsp;5.
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

$BTC

$SHIB

Analyst Bullish on Shiba Inu, Sees 235% Surge Despite Recent Fall

If your investment portfolio feels like a headache right now, legendary investor Bill Ackman says not to worry—it'll eventually be a "blip." 
What Happened: The billionaire hedge fund manager, who founded Pershing Square Capital in 2004, has built a fortune of $3.7 billion by sticking to a set of straightforward investing principles.
Despite achieving significant success, Ackman has experienced both wins and losses throughout his career. Speaking on The Julia La Roche <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VV949D8AUKU&amp;t=3s">Show</a> last year, he shared his belief that maintaining a long-term perspective is crucial for navigating difficult periods.
"If you look at the chart of Pershing Square over time, the difficult periods look like nothing now," he said. "You won't even notice the little blip in a decade or two decades, and you just have to have that kind of perspective."
In 2022, Pershing Square posted an 8.8% loss amid a turbulent market year, but this followed three years of double-digit gains: 26.9% in 2021, 70.2% in 2020, and 58.1% in 2019. 
Ackman attributed this resilience to a disciplined approach rooted in his "basic commandments" for investing, which are engraved on stone tablets at Pershing Square's New York headquarters.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42499608/investment-guru-peter-lynch-if-you-cant-explain-to-an-11-year-old-in-2-minutes-or-less-why-you-own-t">Investment Guru Peter Lynch: &#8216;If You Can&#8217;t Explain To An 11-Year-Old In 2 Minutes Or Less Why You Own The Stock, You Shouldn&#8217;t Own It&#8217;</a>
"We want to buy the best businesses in the world," Ackman explained, describing them as "simple, predictable, free cashflow generative, dominant companies with… a moat around them." The concept of an economic moat, popularized by Warren Buffett, refers to a company's ability to maintain a competitive edge and long-term stability. 
Ackman also emphasized the importance of strong balance sheets, excellent governance, and conservative valuations. "Own the best, super-durable companies you can find with conservative balance sheets," he said. "Buy them at attractive prices and ensure they're managed and governed correctly."
Ackman also highlighted red flags to avoid, such as businesses reliant on constant fundraising to sustain operations. He advised against shorting stocks or investing in commodity-sensitive industries. 
"Stay away from shorting stocks, avoid commodity-sensitive industries, and you do great," he said. He also warned investors to consider potential technological disruptions in today's dynamic landscape.
"There's a part of investing that's very simple. just make sure you think about the potential for disruption because we're in a world where technology is a very dynamic force," he said during the interview. 
Drawing inspiration from Buffett's famously simple advice—"don't lose money, and don't forget the first rule"—Ackman's principles reflect a disciplined yet straightforward approach to building long-term wealth.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Bill Ackman's Advice: 'Stay Away From Shorting Stocks, Avoid Commodity-Sensitive Industries, And You Do Great'

Eric Trump, executive vice president of the Trump Organization and son of President-elect Donald Trump, recently shared his views on tariffs, inflation and Federal Reserve policy.
Speaking exclusively with&nbsp;Benzinga‘s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/bibhu-pattnaik" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bibhu Pattnaik</a>, Eric Trump outlined his father's plans to address economic challenges, including energy costs, government spending, and international trade policies.
On tariffs, Eric Trump dismissed concerns about their potential to drive inflation. "What's going to drive inflation decreasing is frankly freeing up energy," he explained, adding that energy costs account for a significant portion of inflation. 
He expressed confidence that his father's policies, focused on increased domestic drilling and utilization of natural resources, would lower energy prices. Combined with proposed government spending cuts of $1 trillion in the first year or two.
&#8220;Energy makes up about 60% of inflation. And energy is going to come down in a very big way. Because my father wants a drill. He wants to utilize natural resources. And you won&#8217;t have a war on energy. Then second of all, you&#8217;re going to look at DOGE. And they&#8217;re going to cut a trillion dollars out of spending in the first year or two. Which has to happen. And when you look at the cuts in spending and when you look at, you know, obviously oil and gas coming down, that&#8217;s going to drive inflation way down. That&#8217;s going to drive interest rates down,&#8221; Eric Trump told Benzinga. 
Eric Trump argued these measures would bring down inflation, reduce interest rates, and make financing homes, businesses, and even crypto investments more affordable.
Also Read:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42496864/exclusive-eric-trump-calls-elon-musk-albert-einstein-of-our-time-says-tesla-ceo-will-help-build-a-stronger-america" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;EXCLUSIVE: Eric Trump Calls Elon Musk ‘Albert Einstein Of Our Time,' Says Tesla CEO Will Help Build ‘A Stronger America'</a>
&#8220;That&#8217;s going to free up a lot of capital that could otherwise be used. It&#8217;s going to make buying a new home more affordable. That&#8217;s going to be financing businesses more affordable. That&#8217;s going to make borrowing so you can purchase crypto more affordable. I think there&#8217;s a lot of great things to come,&#8221; he added. 
When asked about the Federal Reserve's approach to balancing inflation and recession risks, Eric Trump declined to offer specifics. However, he touched on his father's broader leadership strategy, emphasizing his firm stance on international conflicts and economic policies.
"He's put a lot of people on notice… to stop playing games," Eric Trump said, referencing efforts to resolve global conflicts and hold foreign powers accountable for trade imbalances.
Eric Trump praised his father's commitment to protecting U.S. interests through tariffs and strong foreign policy. He highlighted moves like signaling disengagement from prolonged Middle Eastern conflicts and pushing back against unfair practices by China and NATO. 
"He's going to stop getting ripped off by foreign powers," he said, underscoring his father's approach to fostering peace, stability, and economic strength.
As the Trump administration prepares to take office, these statements offer a glimpse into its potential economic priorities, signaling a focus on energy independence, fiscal responsibility, and assertive international policies.
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Image: Shutterstock

Interview

EXCLUSIVE: Eric Trump Predicts Inflation Drop Through Energy Policies And Spending Cuts

The Biden administration has made another major move to tackle the student debt crisis, approving $4.28 billion in <a href="https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/biden-harris-administration-approves-additional-428-billion-student-debt-relief-nearly-55000-public-service-workers-0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">loan forgiveness</a> for nearly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/student-debt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">55,000 public service workers</a>.
This latest round of relief brings the total student loan forgiveness to a staggering $180 billion, benefiting nearly five million Americans.
The move is part of the administration&#8217;s broader efforts to fix the broken Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program and provide much-needed relief to teachers, nurses, firefighters, and other public servants who dedicate their lives to the community.
In a statement celebrating the success, Education Secretary Miguel Cardona emphasized that the administration&#8217;s commitment to public service workers has resulted in life-changing debt relief.
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&#8220;Four years ago, the Biden-Harris Administration made a pledge to America's teachers, service members, nurses, first responders, and other public servants that we would fix the broken Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, and I'm proud to say that we delivered,&#8221; Cardona said.
The $4.28 billion announced on Friday is part of the ongoing transformation of the PSLF program, which has now forgiven $78 billion in loans for over a million borrowers under this administration alone.
The PSLF program, which offers forgiveness for borrowers who make 120 qualifying monthly payments while working in public service, has been significantly overhauled by the Biden-Harris administration.
The recent changes include improvements that make it easier for borrowers to qualify for forgiveness and track their progress toward the 120-payment requirement.
The department also made regulatory changes to expand eligibility, helping more public service workers access relief.
In addition to the PSLF fixes, the administration has implemented several other measures to alleviate student loan debt.
These include approving $56.5 billion for over 1.4 million borrowers under Income-Driven Repayment plans, which offer more affordable payment terms based on income. The government also provided $28.7 billion in loan forgiveness for borrowers defrauded by their schools or who attended institutions that closed unexpectedly.
Furthermore, the Biden administration has approved $16.2 billion in relief for nearly 572,000 borrowers with total and permanent disabilities, ensuring that they are not burdened by student loans they are unable to repay. These measures are part of a broader strategy to make higher education more accessible and reduce the financial barriers many face after graduation.
In addition to these student debt relief efforts, the administration also increased the maximum Pell Grant by $900, marking the largest increase in a decade.
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Biden Student Loan Forgiveness Tops $180 Billion With Latest Relief

A car-ramming attack at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, Germany, on Friday night has left five people dead, including a nine-year-old child, with more than 200 injured <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and dozens critically wounded</a>.
The incident occurred when a car sped 1,200 feet into a crowd of shoppers in a narrow alley, NBC News <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/car-ramming-christmas-market-germany-rcna185066" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the event as &#8220;terrible&#8221; and expressed concern over the condition of nearly 40 critically injured individuals.
The suspect, a 50-year-old Saudi doctor who has lived in Germany since 2006, was apprehended by authorities.
Initially employed as a psychiatrist at a psychiatric hospital in Bernburg, the man had been off-duty since October due to illness and vacation.
While officials have not disclosed a clear motive, Interior Minister Nancy Faeser confirmed that the suspect had &#8220;clearly Islamophobic&#8221; views.
Also Read&#8221; <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/12/42635025/benzinga-bulls-and-bears-tesla-broadcom-unitedhealth-bitcoin-and-dogecoin-bull-had-to-sell-after-price-plunge" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Bulls And &#8220;ears: Tesla, Broadcom, UnitedHealth, Bitcoin And Dogecoin Bull &#8216;Had To Sell&#8217; After Price Plunge</a>
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities focusing on understanding the attacker&#8217;s motivations, NBC News adds.
The attack has sparked renewed debate in Germany, especially ahead of the February snap elections.
The anti-immigration Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has seen significant gains, is expected to play a key role in shaping the upcoming government.
This incident has added fuel to discussions surrounding uncontrolled immigration, with the AfD likely to use it as a platform in the elections.
A memorial service will be held in Magdeburg&#8217;s cathedral, and a memorial has been set up near St. John&#8217;s Church to honor the victims.
The Saudi government and the U.S. State Department have expressed solidarity with Germany, condemning the attack and sending condolences to the victims&#8217; families, the report adds.
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Image: Wikiemedia Commons

Movers

Car Rams Into Christmas Market in Germany, Killing Five and Injuring More Than 200

The debt ceiling has become a central point of contention in Washington this week, disrupting year-end <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42154761/majority-of-americans-approve-of-trumps-second-term-agenda">government funding talks</a> that were resolved early Saturday.
What Happened: President-elect Donald Trump has called for either raising or completely eliminating the borrowing limit, a move that could resolve the issue before he assumes office and allow him to pursue his agenda without future debt-ceiling battles.
"Congress must get rid of, or extend out to, perhaps, 2029, the ridiculous Debt Ceiling," Trump wrote in a Truth Social <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/113683687655180611">post</a> on Friday. "Without this, we should never make a deal. Remember, the pressure is on whoever is President."
This differs from Trump&#8217;s past view. In January 2013, he wrote, "I cannot believe the Republicans are extending the debt ceiling — I am a Republican and I am embarrassed!"
According to a report <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-raise-eliminate-debt-ceiling-default-economic-consequences-interest-rates-2024-12">by</a> Business Insider, the debt ceiling, which caps how much the federal government can borrow, has long been a contentious political tool. Failing to raise it risks a government default, jeopardizing programs like Social Security, Medicaid and housing assistance.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42257531/heres-how-ray-dalio-thinks-trumps-second-term-could-reshape-the-us-and-the-world">Here&#8217;s How Ray Dalio Thinks Trump&#8217;s Second Term Could Reshape the US and the World</a>
A default could also spike interest rates, as the U.S. might lose its reputation as a creditworthy borrower. "It would mean higher rates on mortgages and credit cards, potentially leading to a deep recession," Len Burman of the Urban Institute told the outlet.
Trump's position aligns with some Democrats who advocate abolishing the debt ceiling altogether. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) recently voiced agreement, arguing that the ceiling is frequently weaponized to force spending cuts.
During previous standoffs, unconventional solutions like invoking the 14th Amendment or minting a $1 trillion platinum coin were proposed to sidestep the limit. Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) suggested that such options remain viable if Congress fails to act.
Why It Matters: Despite Trump's push, many Republicans oppose eliminating the debt ceiling, citing its role as a check on federal borrowing. Trump has warned that GOP members opposing his stance may face primary challenges. 
The country is projected to hit the debt limit early next year, though the Treasury Department could delay default until late spring through accounting measures.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Why Trump Wants Debt Ceiling Killed Before He Takes Office

Perennial TV fave Ryan Seacrest is in contract to buy an expansive renovated $36 million estate, according to a report in the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;
The veteran presenter, known for presenting "American Idol," "Wheel Of Fortune" and "Live With Kelly and Ryan," routinely shuttles between New York and LA. He is buying his new home from fashion mogul Serge Azria, who paid $16.455 million for the Bel-Air property in 2020. Azria undertook a three-year renovation of the home before listing the roughly 11,000-square-foot Bel-Air property for $48 million in June.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Relaxing Mediterranean-Styled Escape</h2>
The contemporary Spanish-style home, built in 1928, features simple wood and off-white finishes and furnishings, arched inset porches and light wood beams beneath vaulted ceilings. It has a showbiz pedigree, previously owned by actress Diane Keaton twenty years ago.
&nbsp;Per Azria's intent, the home was remade with a Mediterranean feel, adding four olive trees in the garden to complement the minimalist, soothing color palette. The home also features a separate pool house with a wood-burning fireplace, a 5-6 car garage, a steam room, a sauna, a terrace and two kitchens.
See Also: This Jeff Bezos-backed startup will allow you to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/bezos-landlord-100-dollars">become a landlord in just 10 minutes, with minimum investments as low as $100 for properties like the Byer House from Stranger Things.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Real Estate Moves</h2>
Seacrest – with a net worth of around $500 million – has been as busy buying and selling California real estate as he has presenting. He listed a Napa Valley estate for $22 million in July and sold a Beverly Hills home for $51 million to tech billionaire Brian Long in 2022. Seacrest had purchased the property from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/10/41148149/inside-ellen-degeneress-real-estate-side-hustle-as-she-reflects-on-life-after-comedy">Ellen DeGeneres</a> and Portia DeRossi for $36.5 million in 2012.
Seacrest also sold his New York home – a five-bedroom penthouse in the West Village – to Fanatics billionaire Michael Rubin for $43 million in the summer of 2023, as reported by the Daily Mail.&nbsp;
Trending: During market downturns, investors are learning that unlike equities, these<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/connect-invest-real-estate-notes"> high-yield real estate notes that pay 7.5% &#8211; 9% are protected by resilient assets, buffering against losses.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Business Empire</h2>
Though Seacrest is well known as a jovial on-screen presence, he is at the helm of a business empire offscreen. These include:
<ul>
<li>Ryan Seacrest Productions: Seacrest's production company is behind hit TV shows, including Keeping Up With the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/kim-kardashian"> Kardashians</a>, E! Live from the Red Carpet, Shahs of Sunset, I Love Kellie Pickler, Shades of Blue and Insatiable.</li>
<li>Ryan Seacrest Distinction: A menswear clothing line sold exclusively at Macy's.</li>
<li>Polished: A skincare line discontinued in 2022.</li>
<li>Casa Dragones tequila: Seacrest is the face of Casa Dragones tequila.</li>
<li>iHeartMedia: Seacrest has been an ongoing presence on iHeart Radio and recently inked a new deal that will see him remain the morning voice of radio in Los Angeles until the end of 2027.</li>
</ul>
He will also continue to host iHeart Radio events, including the two-day iHeartRadio Music Festival and LA's iHeartRadio Jingle Ball holiday concert.
In addition to hosting iHeart Radio-affiliated shows, Seacrest is the annual host of Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve with Ryan Seacrest, which he has hosted for the last 18 years, earning $1 million for the night.&nbsp;
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Ryan Seacrest Is Buying An LA Mansion for $36 Million. Here's A Look At His Splashy Property Portfolio

Billy Joel's No Longer In A New York State Of Mind. Music Legend Lists Long Island Manse And Settles In Florida
Billy Joel&#8217;s movin&#8217; out – or rather, has moved out. The music icon, whose 1976 hit New York State Of Mind cemented his association with his home state, has listed his luxury waterfront estate in Centre Island, New York, for $49.9 million.
The Piano Man recently completed a five-year renovation on the sprawling 26-acre property, which contains four separate houses – the Main House, Beach House, guesthouse and Gate House – and sits on over 2,000 feet of private beachfront overlooking the Long Island Sound.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Long Island Landmark</h2>
Known as Middle Sea, Joel told The New York Times he first saw the property as a teen while dredging oysters to earn extra money. He purchased the property in 2002, three years after Forbes estimated his net worth at around $52 million. It is now estimated to be around $250 million. Located between the upscale <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/42252309/carolyn-miles-scents-4-my-soul-ceo-to-be-honored-at-this-year-2024-kwanza-celebration">Long Island</a> neighborhoods of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/09/40943847/piano-man-hits-a-sour-note-billy-joels-mansion-takes-a-15-million-haircut">Oyster Bay</a> and Cold Spring Harbor, Joel&#8217;s moniker for the property stems from its geographic location. It is also an homage to the Middle &#8220;C&#8221; on a piano.
"If it's not for me being able to take piano lessons, I probably would never have been able to afford a high-flying property like this. So, I named it after the first note I learned on the piano, which was C," Joel told The New York Times.
Joel has been active in the Florida real estate market for years. The listing of Middle Sea comes weeks after he sold another of his homes – a beachfront home in Manalapan, South Florida, which was also coincidentally listed for $49.9 million. According to<a href="https://www.mansionglobal.com/articles/billy-joel-finally-finds-a-buyer-for-his-south-florida-spread-a12ad195"> </a>Mansion Global, the home was first listed in 2018 for $31.9 million after Joel purchased it in 2015 for $22.1 million.
See Also: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Flurry of Florida Purchases</h2>
Despite singing the song "You're My Home," Joel might have a problem saying the same thing in real life. According to the Palm Beach Post, he recently bought two neighboring properties in The Sanctuary in Boca Raton – a private 100-home community. According to deed information, one of the homes was purchased for $29 million in the gated and guarded community off Spanish River Boulevard. The 15,000-square-foot residence sits on a corner lot with over an acre of land and 560 feet of waterfrontage on the Intracoastal Waterway. Joel also purchased a townhouse in Palm Beach and an equestrian property in Wellington.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Kinder Climate&nbsp;</h2>
Joel, who had both hips replaced in 2010, recently lost 50 lbs after suffering back surgery pain. Moving to warmer weather could help him avoid frigid New York winters as he ages.
"I'm just gonna spend a little more time in Florida like old Jewish guys from Long Island do," he joked earlier this year when on stage at UBS Arena in New York. He added that he also has another home on Long Island that he plans to keep.
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Billy Joel&#8217;s movin&#8217; out – or rather, has moved out. The music icon, whose 1976 hit New York State Of Mind cemented his association with his home state, has listed his luxury waterfront estate in Centre Island, New York, for $49.9 million.
The Piano Man recently completed a five-year renovation on the sprawling 26-acre property, which contains four separate houses – the Main House, Beach House, guesthouse and Gate House – and sits on over 2,000 feet of private beachfront overlooking the Long Island Sound.
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<li>These five entrepreneurs are worth $223 billion –<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-homes-private-credit-fund"> they all believe in one platform that offers a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends</a></li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Long Island Landmark</h2>
Known as Middle Sea, Joel told The New York Times he first saw the property as a teen while dredging oysters to earn extra money. He purchased the property in 2002, three years after Forbes estimated his net worth at around $52 million. It is now estimated to be around $250 million. Located between the upscale <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/42252309/carolyn-miles-scents-4-my-soul-ceo-to-be-honored-at-this-year-2024-kwanza-celebration">Long Island</a> neighborhoods of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/09/40943847/piano-man-hits-a-sour-note-billy-joels-mansion-takes-a-15-million-haircut">Oyster Bay</a> and Cold Spring Harbor, Joel&#8217;s moniker for the property stems from its geographic location. It is also an homage to the Middle &#8220;C&#8221; on a piano.
"If it's not for me being able to take piano lessons, I probably would never have been able to afford a high-flying property like this. So, I named it after the first note I learned on the piano, which was C," Joel told The New York Times.
Joel has been active in the Florida real estate market for years. The listing of Middle Sea comes weeks after he sold another of his homes – a beachfront home in Manalapan, South Florida, which was also coincidentally listed for $49.9 million. According to<a href="https://www.mansionglobal.com/articles/billy-joel-finally-finds-a-buyer-for-his-south-florida-spread-a12ad195"> </a>Mansion Global, the home was first listed in 2018 for $31.9 million after Joel purchased it in 2015 for $22.1 million.
See Also: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Flurry of Florida Purchases</h2>
Despite singing the song "You're My Home," Joel might have a problem saying the same thing in real life. According to the Palm Beach Post, he recently bought two neighboring properties in The Sanctuary in Boca Raton – a private 100-home community. According to deed information, one of the homes was purchased for $29 million in the gated and guarded community off Spanish River Boulevard. The 15,000-square-foot residence sits on a corner lot with over an acre of land and 560 feet of waterfrontage on the Intracoastal Waterway. Joel also purchased a townhouse in Palm Beach and an equestrian property in Wellington.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Kinder Climate&nbsp;</h2>
Joel, who had both hips replaced in 2010, recently lost 50 lbs after suffering back surgery pain. Moving to warmer weather could help him avoid frigid New York winters as he ages.
"I'm just gonna spend a little more time in Florida like old Jewish guys from Long Island do," he joked earlier this year when on stage at UBS Arena in New York. He added that he also has another home on Long Island that he plans to keep.
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Billy Joel's No Longer In A New York State Of Mind. Music Legend Lists Long Island Manse And Settles In Florida

When you think of Dave Ramsey, you think of financial freedom, debt-free living and his famous mantra: "Debt is dumb, cash is king." But what happens when the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42380263/elon-musk-asks-if-irs-funding-should-be-deleted-more-than-60-of-respondents-said-yes">dreaded IRS</a> comes knocking with a hefty tax bill you didn't prepare for? Surprisingly, even Ramsey says borrowing money might be the lesser of two evils in this specific case.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Debt is dumb, cash is king, and the paid-off home mortgage has taken the place of the BMW as the status symbol of choice.
&mdash; Dave Ramsey (@DaveRamsey) <a href="https://twitter.com/DaveRamsey/status/1507359648952823813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
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On an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ew__d2xzPo">episode</a> of the EntreLeadership Podcast, Ramsey tackled a real-world scenario from a business owner, Ross, whose electrical contracting business faced an unexpected $200,000 tax bill. Ross admitted he had focused all his extra cash on paying off other debts, leaving nothing aside for taxes. The accountant's suggestion? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-get-a-bank-loan">Borrow the money from the bank</a> to settle the tax debt. While this might sound like heresy to Ramsey's usual no-debt philosophy, he agreed.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Borrowing Beats Owing the IRS</h2>
Ramsey didn't whitewash the reality: if you owe the IRS, you're in trouble. "You'd rather owe the bank on a line of credit than you would the KGB," he said, pointing out that their penalties and interest rates are far harsher than any bank loan. The priority, he emphasized, is to get the IRS out of your life as quickly as possible.
Borrowing from a bank might sting, but it's a strategic move. Ramsey explained that most lines of credit carry lower interest rates – often around 8% or so – which are far more manageable than the fines and stress that come with unpaid taxes. You do not want the IRS breathing down your throat, he warned.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Real Problem: Poor Planning</h2>
While agreeing with the borrowing strategy, Ramsey didn't let Ross off the hook for how he ended up in this mess. "You're running this like it's a $1 million business" when it's a $10 million business, he said bluntly. Ramsey stressed the importance of monthly tax planning, robust accounting systems and professional oversight for a business of Ross&#8217; size. He suggested hiring an in-house controller or CFO and upgrading from entry-level software like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40373775/intuit-faces-growing-risks-in-turbotax-and-quickbooks-morgan-stanley-analyst">QuickBooks</a> to more sophisticated tools like NetSuite.
"You can't outearn stupidity," Ramsey said, telling Ross that he needs systems that match the size and complexity of his business.
Trending: 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">What This Means For You</h2>
Ramsey&#8217;s advice is clear for anyone facing an unexpected tax bill: handle the IRS immediately. If you don't have the cash, a bank loan or line of credit is your best option. But the real lesson here is about preparation. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/39010733/3-financial-fears-and-the-tips-to-overcome-them">Regularly set aside money</a> for taxes, especially if you're experiencing rapid growth or success in your business. Work with a qualified accountant who understands your needs and can help you stay ahead of tax liabilities.
If you're growing fast, it's easy to overlook the administrative side of things. However, as Ramsey pointed out, neglecting your financial systems can result in disaster. "Congratulations on killing it," he told Ross, "but now your lack of systems and sophistication is going to cause you to lose it."
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Personal Finance

Facing A Tax Bill? Dave Ramsey Breaks His 'No-Debt' Policy, Says Borrowing From The Bank Beats Owing The IRS, Which He Calls 'The KGB'

Becton, Dickinson And Co. Agrees To Pay $175 Million Civil Penalty
The Securities and Exchange Commission on Monday announced it had <a href="https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2024-201">settled charges</a> against Becton, Dickinson and Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BDX#NYSE">BDX</a>), known as BD, for repeatedly misleading investors about risks associated with its continued sales of its Alaris infusion pump and for overstating its income by failing to record the costs of fixing multiple software flaws with the pump. BD agreed to pay a $175 million civil penalty.
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"BD repeatedly painted a misleading picture of its Alaris infusion pump for investors and then doubled down by keeping them in the dark when the device's issues came to a head with the FDA in late 2019," said Sanjay Wadhwa, Acting Director of the SEC's Division of Enforcement.&nbsp;
"Public companies have a fundamental duty to accurately disclose material business risks and should expect to be held accountable when they fall short in that regard," Wadhwa added.&nbsp;
The SEC's order finds that BD violated antifraud, reporting, internal accounting controls, books and records and disclosure controls provisions of the federal securities laws. BD agreed to cease and desist from further violations of these provisions, to retain an independent compliance consultant to review and make recommendations concerning its disclosure controls and procedures and to the $175 million civil penalty, without admitting or denying the SEC's findings.&nbsp;
Express Fails To Disclose CEO's Full Executive Compensation&nbsp;
The SEC announced on Tuesday that it has settled charges against fashion retailer Express, Inc. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EXPRQ#OTC">EXPRQ</a>) for failing to disclose executive compensation it paid to its now former CEO with Express agreeing to a cease-and-desist order, without admitting or denying the SEC's findings.
According to the SEC's order, Express failed to disclose $979,269 worth of perks and personal benefits provided to its CEO for fiscal years 2019, 2020, and 2021. As a result, Express understated the "All Other Compensation" portion of its CEO's compensation by an average of 94% over the three years. The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier this year.&nbsp;
"Public companies have a duty to comply with their disclosure obligations regarding executive compensation, including perks and personal benefits, so that investors can make educated investment decisions," said Sanjay Wadhwa, Acting Director of the SEC's Division of Enforcement.&nbsp;
"Here, although Express fell short in carrying out its obligation, the Commission declined to impose a civil penalty based, in part, on the company's self-report, cooperation with the staff's investigation, and remedial efforts," Wadhwa added. 
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Image: Yildiray Yücel Kamanmaz from Pixabay

EXPRQ

Financial Crime Weekly: Becton, Dickinson And Co. Pays $175 Million Penalty, Express Fails To Disclose CEO's Full Compensation

The e-commerce sector looks promising due to the growth of mobile commerce and social media, along with advances in the internet, personalized ads, and improved user experiences. Therefore, adding strong e-commerce stocks like eBay (EBAY), Amazon (AMZN), and Dingdong (DDL) could be a smart move to benefit from the online retail boom. Keep reading... The e-commerce industry is experiencing rapid growth, driven by the surge in online shopping, mobile commerce expansion, and emerging markets in developing countries. Moreover, trends such as social commerce and AI-driven personalization are enhancing customer engagement and online retail sales, presenting promising investment opportunities.
To capitalize on this online retail boom, investors might consider buying strong e-commerce stocks such as eBay Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EBAY/">EBAY</a>), Amazon.com, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AMZN/">AMZN</a>), and Dingdong (Cayman) Limited (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDL/">DDL</a>) now.
E-commerce in 2024 shows promise with advancements like Generative AI and zero-click search, which enhance the user experience. Personalized advertising and retail media networks are gaining momentum, while the rise of second-hand marketplaces, high-quality products, and seamless payment options further boost the sector's appeal. Hence, investing now can help capitalize on these transformative trends.
While overall retail sales growth has slowed slightly, sectors like clothing, accessories, and health products are thriving. Despite high interest rates and economic caution, rising online sales are driving growth. U.S. e-commerce revenue is projected to increase significantly by <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/272391/us-retail-e-commerce-sales-forecast/">$657.8 billion</a>, or 53.79%, from 2024 to 2029. Moreover, China's online sales of physical goods also rose by <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/08/15/china-july-data-retail-sales-industrial-production.html">14% in July</a>.
Notably, U.S. online retail sales are set to hit <a href="https://www.fticonsulting.com/insights/reports/2024-online-retail-report#:~:text=We%20project%20U.S.%20online%20retail%20sales%20will%20hit%20%241.2%20trillion%20in%202024.&amp;text=Estimated%20increase%20in%20U.S.%20online,%2C%20or%209.8%25%20over%202023.&amp;text=Expected%20U.S.%20e%2Dcommerce%20market,at%20the%20end%20of%202023.">$1.2 trillion this year</a>, marking a $108 billion (9.8%) increase from last year. Furthermore, the rise of high-speed internet has transformed global e-commerce, with innovations such as chatbots, headless commerce, AR shopping, and blockchain technology driving significant growth in the sector.
Considering these conducive trends, let's examine the fundamentals of the three above-mentioned <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">Internet</a> stocks, starting with the third choice.
Stock #3: eBay Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EBAY/">EBAY</a>)
EBAY operates marketplace platforms that connect buyers and sellers in the United States and internationally. The company's marketplace platforms include eBay.com and the eBay suite of mobile apps. They enable users to list, buy, and sell various products.
On July 10, 2024, EBAY announced a new revenue-based financing product, Business Cash Advance, in partnership with Liberis. This service provides eligible U.S. eBay sellers with up to $1 million in working capital within 24 hours, featuring flexible payments and a seamless online application process.
On June 13, 2024, EBAY announced the addition of Venmo as a payment option for U.S. buyers, aiming to enhance flexibility and appeal to younger, mobile-first consumers. This integration allows users to pay with their Venmo balance or linked financial accounts during checkout on ebay.com.
In terms of the trailing-12-month <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/ebit.asp">EBIT</a> margin, EBAY's 21.45% is 174.1% higher than the 7.83% industry average. Its 4.35% trailing-12-month Capex / Sales is 45% higher than the 3% industry average. Similarly, the stock's 18.41% trailing-12-month levered FCF margin is 231.3% higher than the 5.56% industry average.
During the fiscal second quarter that ended June 30, 2024, EBAY's net revenues increased 1.3% year-over-year to $2.57 billion. Its gross profit rose marginally year-over-year to $1.84 billion. Also, its non-GAAP net income from continuing operations stood at $602 million and 1.18 per share, up 8.5% and 14.6% over the prior-year quarter, respectively.
Analysts expect EBAY's EPS for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, to increase 14.5% year-over-year to $1.18. Its revenue for the same quarter is expected to grow 1.7% year-over-year to $2.54 billion. It surpassed the Street EPS and revenue estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. Over the past nine months, the stock has gained 37.4% to close the last trading session at $55.83.
EBAY's <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a> reflect its strong fundamentals. It has an overall rating of B, equating to a Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 distinct factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
EBAY has an A grade for Quality and a B for Momentum. It is ranked #16 out of 52 stocks in the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">Internet</a> industry. Beyond what we have stated above, we also have given EBAY grades for Growth, Value, Stability, and Sentiment. Get all the EBAY's ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/EBAY/">here</a>.
Stock #2: Amazon.com, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AMZN/">AMZN</a>)
AMZN sells consumer products and subscriptions through online and physical stores in North America and internationally. It operates through three segments: North America, International, and Amazon Web Services (AWS). The company's products offered through its stores include merchandise and content purchased for resale and products provided by third-party sellers.
On July 11, 2024, AMZN's AWS and Workday announced an expanded partnership to develop generative AI capabilities, enhance custom application development, and accelerate joint go-to-market efforts. This collaboration aims to boost productivity, improve decision-making, and drive cloud transformation for organizations.
On July 25, 2024, AMZN and GE HealthCare announced a strategic collaboration to develop generative AI models aimed at enhancing medical diagnostics and patient care. GE HealthCare will use AWS's cloud and AI services to accelerate healthcare innovation and improve clinical workflows.
In terms of the trailing-12-month net income margin, AMZN's 7.35% is 63.2% higher than the 4.50% industry average. Likewise, its 9.86% trailing-12-month Capex / Sales is 229% higher than the 3% industry average. Moreover, the stock's 1.17x trailing-12-month asset turnover ratio is 18% higher than the 0.99x industry average.
AMZN's total net sales during the fiscal second quarter that ended June 30, 2024, increased 10.1% year-over-year to $147.98 billion. The company's operating income grew 91% from the year-ago value to $14.67 billion. In addition, the company's net income and EPS came in at $13.49 billion and $1.26, up 99.8% and 93.8% over the prior-year quarter, respectively.
Street expects AMZN's EPS and revenue for the quarter ending September 30, 2024, to increase 20.5% and 9.9% year-over-year to $1.13 and $157.27 billion, respectively. It surpassed the Street EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters. Over the past year, the stock has gained 29% to close the last trading session at $177.59.
It's no surprise that AMZN has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system.
AMZN has a B grade for Momentum, Sentiment, and Quality. Within the same industry, it is ranked #12. To see AMZN's ratings for Growth, Value, and Stability, <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AMZN/">click here</a>.
Stock #1: Dingdong (Cayman) Limited (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDL/">DDL</a>)
Headquartered in Shanghai, China, DDL operates as an e-commerce company. The company offers fresh groceries, including vegetables, meat and eggs, fruits, and seafood; prepared food; and other food products such as baked goods, dairy, seasonings, beverages, instant food, oil, and snacks.
In terms of its trailing-12-month Return on Common Equity, DDL's 14.73% is 38% higher than the 10.67% industry average. Also, the stock's 2.87x trailing-12-month asset turnover ratio is 239.7% higher than the 0.85x industry average.
In the fiscal second quarter, which ended June 30, 2024, DDL's total revenues increased 15.7% year-over-year to RMB5.60 billion ($782.78 million). Its non-GAAP income from operations stood at RMB89.60 million ($12.52 million), compared to a non-GAAP loss from operations of RMB5.42 million ($757.62 thousand).
Moreover, its non-GAAP net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and non-GAAP net income per Class A and Class B ordinary share came in at RMB100.84 million ($14.10 million) and RMB0.31, up considerably each over the prior-year quarter, respectively.
For the quarter ending September 30, 2024, DDL's revenue is expected to increase 21.5% year-over-year to $862.10 million. Its EPS for fiscal 2024 is expected to rise 896.4% year-over-year to $0.15. It surpassed the consensus EPS estimates in three of the trailing four quarters. Over the past six months, DDL's stock has gained 67.8% to close the last trading session at $2.03.
DDL's bright prospects are reflected in its POWR Ratings. It has an overall rating of A, equating to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
It has an A grade for Growth and a B for Value. DDL is ranked #2 in the Internet industry. To access the additional grades of DDL for Momentum, Stability, Sentiment, and Quality, <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDL/">click here</a>.
What To Do Next?
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<hr />
AMZN shares were trading at $177.39 per share on Friday afternoon, down $0.20 (-0.11%). Year-to-date, AMZN has gained 16.75%, versus a 17.33% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Abhishek Bhuyan</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/ABhuyan.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Abhishek embarked on his professional journey as a financial journalist due to his keen interest in discerning the fundamental factors that influence the future performance of financial instruments.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=abhishek-bhuyan">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/amzn-ebay-ddl-3-e-commerce-picks-to-ride-the-online-retail-boom/>3 E-Commerce Picks to Ride the Online Retail Boom</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

3 E-Commerce Picks to Ride the Online Retail Boom

With Alphabet (GOOGL) facing growing antitrust challenges, investors question whether the tech giant remains a buy. Discover if GOOGL's financial strength and massive growth in AI and cloud can offset regulatory risks. Read on to learn more... Alphabet Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GOOGL/">GOOGL</a>) has been a dominant player in the tech industry. However, it faces increased scrutiny from regulators worldwide. Google is set to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/us-antitrust-trial-targets-googles-digital-ad-business-2024-09-04/">face trial next week in a second antitrust case</a>, where the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) will challenge the company's methods of monetizing advertising, which prosecutors claim harms news publishers.
This case is part of the Biden administration's broader push to curb the power of Big Tech through antitrust laws. It follows a significant victory for the Justice Department in a separate lawsuit on August 5, when a judge ruled that Google illegally monopolized online search.
Despite these looming challenges, GOOGL's financial strength remains undeniable. The company reported better-than-expected revenue and earnings for the second quarter of 2024. Alphabet reported <a href="https://abc.xyz/assets/19/e4/3dc1d4d6439c81206370167db1bd/2024q2-alphabet-earnings-release.pdf">revenues of $84.74 billion</a>, surpassing analysts' estimate of $84.30 billion. The company's EPS came in at $1.89, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.84.
Its main revenue drivers—Google Search, YouTube, and Google Cloud—remain robust. The company's advertising arm, which is at the center of antitrust scrutiny, still accounts for a significant portion of its revenue, and its dominance in digital ads has positioned Alphabet as a key player in the tech ecosystem.
Additionally, Alphabet is well-diversified with its growing cloud business, artificial intelligence (AI) advancements, and other ventures such as Waymo (autonomous driving) and Verily (health technology).
Shares of GOOGL have gained 17.4% over the past month and 15.3% over the past six months to close the last trading session at $156.45.
Let's look at factors that could influence GOOGL's performance in the upcoming months.
Outstanding Financials
For the second quarter that ended June 30, 2024, GOOGL's revenues increased 13.6% year-over-year to $84.74 billion. Its <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/o/operatingincome.asp#:~:text=Operating%20income%20is%20an%20accounting,of%20goods%20sold%20(COGS).">operating income</a> rose 25.6% from the year-ago value to $27.43 billion. Its net income was $23.62 billion, up 28.6% year-over-year. Its earnings per share grew 31.3% from the prior year's quarter to $1.89 billion.
In addition, the company's cash and cash equivalents totaled $27.23 billion as of June 30, 2024, compared to $24.05 billion as of December 31, 2023. Its total assets were $414.77 billion versus $402.39 billion as of December 31, 2023.
Favorable Analyst Estimates
Analysts expect GOOGL's revenue for the third quarter (ending September 2024) to grow 12.5% year-over-year to $86.26 billion. The consensus EPS estimate of $1.84 for the ongoing quarter indicates an improvement of 18.5% year-over-year. Further, the company has surpassed consensus revenue and EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters, which is impressive.
For the fiscal year ending December 2024, Wall Street expects Alphabet's revenue and EPS to increase 13% and 31.5% from the previous year to $347.35 billion and $7.63, respectively. The company's revenue and EPS for the fiscal year 2025 are expected to grow 11.3% and 14% year-over-year to $386.67 billion and $8.69, respectively.
Solid Historical Growth
GOOGL's revenue has grown at a CAGR of 17.2% over the past five years. Its EBITDA has increased at a CAGR of 20.9% over the same period, and its levered free cash flow has grown at a CAGR of 16%. Furthermore, the company's net income and EPS have improved at CAGRs of 20.3% and 23% over the same timeframe, respectively.
Additionally, the company's total assets have increased at a CAGR of 10% over the past five years.
Robust Profitability
GOOGL's trailing-12-month gross profit margin of 57.64% is 13.3% higher than the 50.88% industry average. Its trailing-12-month EBITDA margin of 35.18% is 90.5% higher than the 18.47% industry average. Likewise, the stock's trailing-12-month net income margin of 26.70% is significantly higher than the industry average of 3.24%.
Furthermore, GOOGL's trailing-12-month ROCE, ROTC, and ROTA of 30.87%, 20.34%, and 21.13% are considerably higher than the industry averages of 3.49%, 3.81%, and 1.37%, respectively. The stock's trailing-12-month levered FCF margin of 13.40% is 65.3% higher than the industry average of 8.10%.
POWR Ratings Reflect Promise
GOOGL's sound fundamentals are reflected in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. The stock has an overall rating of B, which translates to a Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by taking into account 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
Our proprietary rating system also evaluates each stock based on eight distinct categories. GOOGL has an A grade for Sentiment, in sync with its favorable analyst expectations. In addition, the stock has a B grade for Quality, consistent with higher-than-industry profitability.
Within the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">Internet</a> industry, GOOGL is ranked #8 out of 52 stocks.
Beyond what I have stated above, we have also given GOOGL grades for Value, Growth, Momentum, and Stability. Get all GOOGL ratings <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GOOGL/">here</a>.
Bottom Line
While Alphabet's dominance in search and digital ads has put it in the crosshairs of antitrust regulators, its outstanding financial performance, innovation in AI and cloud, and expansion into new markets make it a compelling long-term investment. Given robust financials and a bright growth outlook, GOOGL could be an ideal investment for potential gains.
How Does Alphabet Inc. (GOOGL) Stack Up Against Its Peers?
While GOOGL has an overall POWR Rating of B, investors could also check out these other stocks within the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">Internet</a> industry with an A (Strong Buy) rating: Meituan ADR (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MPNGY/">MPNGY</a>), Dingdong (Cayman) Ltd (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDL/">DDL</a>), and Travelzoo (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/TZOO/">TZOO</a>).
To explore more A or B-rated internet stocks, <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">click here</a>.
What To Do Next?
Discover 10 widely held stocks that our proprietary model shows have tremendous downside potential. Please make sure none of these "death trap" stocks are lurking in your portfolio:
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/10-stocks-to-sell/?formplacement=artbotad_10sell">10 Stocks to SELL NOW! &gt;</a>

<hr />
GOOGL shares were trading at $156.58 per share on Thursday afternoon, up $0.13 (+0.08%). Year-to-date, GOOGL has gained 12.22%, versus a 16.01% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Mangeet Kaur Bouns</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Mangeet-Kaur-Bouns_Image-4.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Mangeet's keen interest in the stock market led her to become an investment researcher and financial journalist. Using her fundamental approach to analyzing stocks, Mangeet's looks to help retail investors understand the underlying factors before making investment decisions.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=mangeet-kaurbouns">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/googl-mpngy-ddl-tzoo-with-antitrust-challenges-looming-is-alphabet-still-a-buy/>With Antitrust Challenges Looming, Is Alphabet Still a Buy?</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

With Antitrust Challenges Looming, Is Alphabet Still a Buy?

South Korea's e-commerce giant, Coupang (CPNG), has surged over 40% this year. Yet, despite this impressive rally, a decline in bottom-line performance raises concerns, leaving investors wondering: Can CPNG keep up its momentum? Read on to find out... Founded in 2010 by Bom Kim, a former Harvard Business School student, Coupang, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/CPNG/">CPNG</a>) has rapidly become South Korea's e-commerce leader, often earning the title of the "Amazon of South Korea." Shares of CPNG have soared 46.5% over the past nine months and 42.1% year-to-date to close the last trading session at $23.
A question lingers in investors' minds despite this impressive run: can Coupang sustain its upward momentum?
While Coupang's financials have shown mixed signals recently, its second-quarter revenue came in at $7.32 billion, slightly missing the anticipated $7.39 billion. However, on the bright side, its adjusted <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/eps.asp">earnings per share</a> of $0.07 exceeded the expected break-even point, delivering a $0.07 surprise.
"This quarter, we continued to see deeper levels of engagement from our customers, powered by our relentless focus on providing even greater levels of selection, service, and savings for customers," said CPNG's CFO Gaurav Anand.
Let's look at factors that could influence CPNG's performance in the upcoming months.
Mixed Financials
In the second quarter of 2024, which ended on June 30, CPNG's net revenue increased 25% year-over-year (or 18% excluding the impact of Farfetch) to $7.32 billion. The company's Product Commerce Active Customers also increased by 12%, reaching 21.7 million, while revenue per active customer rose 5% on a constant currency basis.
Moreover, its gross profit grew 41% year-over-year to $2.14 billion, with a gross margin of 29.3%. CPNG's adjusted EBITDA increased 10% from the year-ago value to $330 million.
However, the company reported an operating loss of $25 million, compared to an operating income of $148 million in the prior year's quarter. In addition, its adjusted attributable net income decreased 14.5% year-over-year to $124 million, and adjusted earnings per share came in at $0.07, down 12.5% year-over-year. CPNG's cash outflow from operating activities declined 33.7% year-over-year to $876 million. 
Mixed Analyst Estimates
Analysts expect CPNG's revenue for the third quarter (ending September 2024) to increase 24.8% year-over-year to $7.72 billion. However, the consensus EPS estimate of $0.01 for the same period indicates a 77.7% year-over-year decline.
Similarly, for the fiscal year ending December 2024, CPNG's revenue is expected to grow 24.4% from the prior year to $30.34 billion, while its EPS for the current year is forecasted to be negative at $0.01.
Stretched Valuation
In terms of forward EV/Sales, CPNG is trading at 1.30x, 7.6% higher than the industry average of 1.21x. Likewise, its forward Price/Sales of 1.36x is 56.8% above the industry average of 0.87x. Furthermore, the stock's forward EV/EBITDA and EV/EBIT multiple of 40.75 and 88.76 compares with the industry averages of 9.76 and 14.24, respectively.
Mixed Profitability
CPNG's trailing-12-month ROCE and ROTA of 31.73% and 6.92% are 175.8% and 69.9% higher than their respective industry averages of 11.50% and 4.08%. Likewise, its trailing-12-month asset turnover ratio of 2.10x is 112.3% above the industry average of 0.99x.
However, the stock's trailing-12-month EBIT and levered FCF margins of 1.14% and 3.95% are below their industry averages by 85.6% and 22.7%, respectively. In addition, the stock's 2.95% trailing-12-month ROTC is 51.7% lower than the 6.11% industry average.
POWR Ratings Exhibit Mixed Prospects
CPNG's stance is apparent in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. The stock has an overall rating of C, which translates to Neutral in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by taking into account 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
Our proprietary rating system also evaluates each stock based on eight distinct categories. CPNG has a B grade for Momentum is justified by its share price, which is currently trading above its 50-day moving average of $21.64 and 200-day moving average of $19.31.
However, with a five-year beta of 1.10, the stock has earned a grade C for Stability. Also, the stock's C grade for Sentiment is consistent with its mixed analysts' estimates.
CPNG is ranked #42 out of 52 stocks in the B-rated <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">Internet</a> industry. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/CPNG/">Click here</a> to access CPNG's Growth, Value, and Quality ratings.
Bottom Line
CPNG remains dominant in South Korea's e-commerce space, but its latest financials raise concerns. While the company exceeded earnings expectations, it missed revenue and customer growth estimates, causing its stock to drop 4.5% immediately following the results. Despite improvements in operational efficiency and adoption of AI-driven automation, the decline in bottom-line performance and mixed analyst forecasts highlight the company's ongoing challenges.
Considering CPNG's higher-than-industry valuation, enhanced volatility, and a slowing retail market in South Korea, it could be wise to wait for a better entry point in this stock now.
How Does Coupang, Inc. (CPNG) Stack Up Against Its Peers?
While CPNG has an overall grade of C, equating to a Neutral rating, you may also check out these A (Strong Buy) or B (Buy) rated stocks within the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">Internet</a> industry: Meituan (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MPNGY/">MPNGY</a>), Dingdong (Cayman) Limited (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDL/">DDL</a>), and Yelp Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/YELP/">YELP</a>). To explore more Internet stocks, <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">click here</a>.
What To Do Next?
Get your hands on this special report with 3 low priced companies with tremendous upside potential even in today's volatile markets:
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/3stocks/?formplacement=artbotad_3s">3 Stocks to DOUBLE This Year &gt;</a>

<hr />
CPNG shares were trading at $23.40 per share on Wednesday afternoon, up $0.40 (+1.74%). Year-to-date, CPNG has gained 44.53%, versus a 16.20% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Shweta Kumari</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Shweta-Kumari_Image-2.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Shweta's profound interest in financial research and quantitative analysis led her to pursue a career as an investment analyst. She uses her knowledge to help retail investors make educated investment decisions.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=shweta-kumari">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/cpng-mpngy-ddl-yelp-can-coupang-keep-up-its-momentum-as-south-koreas-e-commerce/>Can Coupang Keep up Its Momentum as South Korea's E-Commerce Giant?</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

Can Coupang Keep up Its Momentum as South Korea's E-Commerce Giant?

The gig is up and in a good way! The global gig economy is set to surge to nearly $2 trillion by 2031. With increasing demand for flexible work and rising global participation, platforms like Fiverr International (FVRR) are leading the charge. Read on to explore why this stock is worth watching as the gig economy expands. The gig economy has been on an unstoppable rise, thanks to the rise of tech-driven freelance marketplaces and on-demand services. What started with ride-sharing apps has now become a full-fledged marketplace for virtually every service imaginable (from food delivery and groceries to finding a plumber or a graphic designer), all with just a few taps on your smartphone.
As digital technologies advance and the work-from-anywhere trend becomes the norm, the gig economy continues to expand. In the past two years alone, about 35 venture-backed companies have raised nearly $800 million, underscoring this space's booming interest and potential. Developing economies also see a surge in gig participation, further fueling this growth.
In this evolving landscape, should you keep an eye on Fiverr International Ltd. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/FVRR/">FVRR</a>)? Let's find out.
Fiverr is a bustling freelance marketplace where people can hire talent from web design to video production, with job postings starting as low as $5. The platform charges a commission on each transaction and offers various subscription options for buyers and sellers. Freelancers on Fiverr can even turn their gigs into full-time careers.
During the Q2 earnings call, CEO Micha Kaufman shared that the company has navigated a challenging macro environment by maintaining operational excellence and delivering profitable growth. He stated, "We've made remarkable strides in our product evolution with the introduction of profession-based catalog and hourly contracts."
Although FVRR saw a dip in traffic in mid-2024, especially in the programming and tech sectors, the company remains optimistic. "Despite a 7% year-over-year decline in U.S. job openings and a 17% drop in the information sector, AI continues to drive growth for Fiverr, particularly in complex services, and is expected to be a growth driver moving forward", Kaufman added.
Shares of FVRR have gained 13.1% over the past six months to close the last trading session at $24.81.
Now, let's look at factors that could influence FVRR's performance in the upcoming months:
Positive Developments
On July 31, FVRR announced <a href="https://investors.fiverr.com/news-releases/news-release-details/fiverr-deepens-ecommerce-solutions-acquisition-leading">the acquisition of AutoDS</a>, a subscription-based drop-shipping platform. AutoDS, which offers tools for product research, inventory management, and automated fulfillment, is expected to significantly boost FVRR's eCommerce capabilities while introducing a new, recurring revenue stream through subscriptions.
Kaufman said the acquisition of AutoDS, which manages over 150 million products and serves tens of thousands of subscribers, supports the company's transition from a marketplace to a platform offering talent and software solutions. Moreover, with the global drop-shipping market expected to soar from $285 billion to over <a href="https://www.oberlo.com/statistics/dropshipping-market">$2 trillion by 2033</a>, AutoDS' automation tools and expansive network are set to enhance FVRR's position in the growing digital services space.
In addition to the acquisition, the company also rolled out new features, including a profession-based <a href="https://www.fiverr.com/news/summer_product_release_2024">catalog and hourly contracts</a>. These additions are designed to expand its market presence and further align with its goal of becoming a full-service platform for talent and software.
Solid Financial Performance
For the second quarter that ended June 30, 2024, FVRR reported revenue of $94.66 million, up 5.9% year-over-year and slightly above the analyst's estimate of $94.63 million. Its non-GAAP gross profit increased by 6.2% year-over-year to $79.93 million, with a margin of 84.4%.
Further, the company's <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/adjusted-ebitda.asp">adjusted EBITDA</a> rose 16.8% from the year-ago value to $17.85 million, while its cash outflow from operating activities grew 11.9% from the prior year's quarter to $20.97 million. FVRR's non-GAAP net income amounted to $23.83 million and $0.58 per share, reflecting an increase of 18.9% and 18.4%, respectively, from the same quarter last year.
Also, its free cash flow stood at $20.66 million, up 12.5% year-over-year. Additionally, its cash and cash equivalents increased to $188.73 million as of June 30, 2024, compared to $183.67 million as of December 31, 2023.
Favorable Analyst Estimates
The consensus revenue estimate of $96.39 million for the fiscal third quarter (ending September 2024) represents a 4.2% increase year-over-year. The consensus EPS estimate of $0.61 for the current quarter indicates a 10.1% improvement year-over-year. The company has an excellent earnings surprise history, surpassing the consensus EPS estimates in each of the trailing four quarters.
For the fiscal year ending December 2024, the company's EPS is anticipated to grow 20% year-over-year to $2.34, while its revenue is expected to increase 6.6% from the prior year period to $385.17 million.
In addition, Street expects its revenue and EPS for the fiscal year 2025 to grow 9.8% and 10.5% from the same period last year to $423.02 million and $2.59, respectively.
Lower-Than-Industry Valuation
In terms of forward non-GAAP P/E, FVRR is currently trading at 10.52x, 45.4% lower than the industry average of 19.28x. Similarly, the stock's forward EV/EBIT and EV/EBITDA multiples of 9.32 and 8.74 are 41.3% and 23.5% lower than the industry averages of 15.88x and 11.42x, respectively.
Additionally, the stock's 1.63x forward EV/Sales is 10.4% lower than the industry average of 1.82x.
High Profitability
FVRR's trailing-12-month gross profit margin of 83.34% is 165.7% higher than the 31.36% industry average. Likewise, its trailing-12-month levered FCF margin of 18.49% is 181.8% higher than the industry average of 6.56%.
POWR Ratings Reflect Promise
FVRR's promising outlook is reflected in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. The stock has an overall rating of B, which translates to Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by taking into account 118 different factors, with each factor weighted to an optimal degree.
Our proprietary rating system also evaluates each stock based on eight distinct categories.
FVRR boasts an A grade for Growth, consistent with its solid financial performance in the last reported quarter. Additionally, its B grade for Value and Quality is in sync with its discounted valuation and robust profitability.
The stock is ranked #7 in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">Internet</a> industry. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/FVRR/">Click here</a> to access FVRR's Momentum, Stability, and Sentiment ratings.
Bottom Line
The global gig economy isn't just a passing trend; it's on track to become a <a href="https://ssir.org/articles/entry/gig-economy-startups-workers#:~:text=The%20global%20gig%20economy%20is,workers'%20increasing%20demands%20for%20flexibility.">nearly $2 trillion</a> industry by 2031. With a global job shortage and the rising demand for flexible work, gig platforms are thriving. As of March 2024, <a href="https://institute.bankofamerica.com/content/dam/economic-insights/consumer-morsel-gig-economy-is-up.pdf">over 3.8%</a> of Bank of America customers received income from gig platforms, surpassing previous highs. Moreover, the share of gig workers earning monthly income has steadily increased since 2021, underscoring the increasing commitment to freelance work.
As the gig economy continues to grow, FVRR is well-positioned to benefit. With strong financials, increasing profitability, and a bright long-term growth outlook, it could be wise to invest in this stock.
How Does Fiverr International Ltd. (FVRR) Stack Up Against Its Peers?
While FVRR has an overall grade of B, equating to a Buy rating, you may also check out these other stocks within the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">Internet</a> industry: Meituan (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MPNGY/">MPNGY</a>), Dingdong (Cayman) Limited (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DDL/">DDL</a>), and Yelp Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/YELP/">YELP</a>), carrying A (Strong Buy) or B (Buy) ratings. To explore more Internet stocks, <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/internet/">click here</a>.
What To Do Next?
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<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/10-stocks-to-sell/?formplacement=artbotad_10sell">10 Stocks to SELL NOW! &gt;</a>

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FVRR shares were trading at $25.40 per share on Friday afternoon, up $0.79 (+3.21%). Year-to-date, FVRR has declined -6.69%, versus a 19.17% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Shweta Kumari</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Shweta-Kumari_Image-2.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Shweta's profound interest in financial research and quantitative analysis led her to pursue a career as an investment analyst. She uses her knowledge to help retail investors make educated investment decisions.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=shweta-kumari">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/fvrr-mpngy-ddl-yelp-is-fiverr-a-good-stock-to-watch-as-gig-economy/>Is Fiverr a Good Stock to Watch as Gig Economy Expands?</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

Is Fiverr a Good Stock to Watch as Gig Economy Expands?

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