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Garden Stage Ltd is a Hong Kong-based financial services provider principally engaged in the provision of placing and underwriting services; securities dealing and brokerage services; and asset management services. Its business is carried out through its wholly owned Operating Subsidiaries: a) I Win Securities, which is licensed to conduct Type 1 (dealing in securities) regulated activities under the SFO in Hong Kong, and b) I Win Asset Management, which is licensed to conduct Type 4 (advising on securities) and Type 9 (asset management) regulated activities under the SFO in Hong Kong.

Garden Stage Ltd

In the wake of a contentious app update, Sonos Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONO#NASDAQ">SONO</a>) CEO Patrick Spence stepped down from his role last week.
What Happened: Spence&#8217;s departure follows an app update that resulted in a decrease in sales and customer satisfaction for Sonos. 
The update, which eliminated features that customers found useful, was intended to lay the groundwork for future improvements but instead disrupted many features for existing users.
Interim CEO Tom Conrad, in a communication to staff, acknowledged the company&#8217;s errors and stressed the importance of rebuilding customer trust, as reported <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/13/24342354/sonos-interim-ceo-tom-conrad-employee-letter?utm_source=chatgpt.com">by</a> The Verge.
"I've heard from many of you about your own frustrations about how far we've drifted from our shared ideals," he wrote in the letter. 
"There's a tremendous amount of work in front of us, including what I'm sure will be some very challenging moments, decisions, and trade-offs, but I'm energized by the passion I see all around me for doing right by our customers and getting back to the innovation that is at the heart of Sonos' incredible history," Conrad wrote. 
&#8220;I know as well as anyone the incredible power of what we can do. A Sonos Move was playing in the delivery room when my daughter (11 months just last week!) was born. Sonos provides a similar soundtrack for millions of lives throughout the world every single day. When it all works, it's absolute magic,&#8221; he further added. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43076734/could-cupertino-save-struggling-sonos-speculation-about-apple-bid-abounds">Could Cupertino Save Struggling Sonos? Speculation About Apple Bid Abounds</a>
&#8220;It's also true that when it doesn't work, our customers are taken out of the moment and are right to feel that we've let them down. I think we'll all agree that this year we've let far too many people down. As we've seen, getting some important things right (Arc Ultra and Ace are remarkable products!) is just not enough when our customers' alarms don't go off, their kids can't hear their playlist during breakfast, their surrounds don't fire, or they can't pause the music in time to answer the buzzing doorbell,&#8221; he wrote in the letter. 
Despite successful product introductions like&nbsp;the Sonos Ace headphones and&nbsp;the Arc Ultra soundbar, Sonos faces a challenging journey to mend its brand and customer relationships.
Why It Matters: The resignation of Spence underlines the significant impact of the app update debacle on Sonos&#8217;s leadership and overall business. 
The company&#8217;s future success hinges on its ability to restore customer confidence and effectively manage the fallout from the controversial update. 
The shakeup in leadership, coupled with the need to repair its brand image, presents a critical juncture for Sonos. The company&#8217;s next steps will be closely watched by investors and customers alike.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/01/42947823/sonos-shares-jump-after-company-announces-ceo-transition-the-details">Sonos Announces CEO Transition: The Details </a>
Image: Shutterstock

News

Tech

SONO

Sonos' Interim CEO Hits The Right Notes In Employee Letter, Here's The Key Takeaway

Charlie Munger, who passed away in 2023 at the age of 99, shared his final reflections on life and career, offering profound insights into his journey to success.
What Happened: Munger, a Harvard Law graduate, initially embarked on his career in a prestigious California firm. Despite his success, he sought&nbsp;more than what a senior&nbsp;law partner could earn, leading him to explore investments in stocks, businesses, and property development, and eventually founding a law firm with colleagues.
Munger&#8217;s&nbsp;three basic rules for career&nbsp;satisfaction included striving to deserve what you want, working under people you admire, and having intense interest in your work. He emphasized the importance of reputation and integrity, and the joy derived from earning deserved trust.
&#8220;I have three basic rules for career satisfaction that have always helped me, and I believe they can help any young person evaluating a career decision. While meeting all three is nearly impossible, you should try anyway,&#8221; Munger <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/11/29/charlie-munger-these-basic-career-rules-made-me-successful-in-life-with-warren-buffett-i-had-all-3.html">wrote</a> for CNBC.
First, he advised never to sell anything one wouldn't buy for oneself. He believed the best approach to achieving what one wants is to focus on deserving it, a notion rooted in the golden rule. 
&#8220;There is no ethos, in my opinion, that is better for any person to have. By and large, the people who have had this ethos win in life, and they don't win just money and honors — they win the respect and the deserved trust of the people they deal with,&#8221; he wrote. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42935637/heres-how-charlie-mungers-final-investment-move-doubled-his-money-reveals-his-close-friend-li-lu">Here&#8217;s How Charlie Munger&#8217;s Final Investment Move Doubled His Money, Reveals His Close Friend Li Lu</a>
Second, Munger stressed the importance of working only for those one respects and admires. He warned against working under individuals one does not admire, noting the risks posed by authority figures who exert influence, especially through rewards. 
Munger further wrote, &#8220;Generally, your outcome in life will be more satisfactory if you work under people whom you correctly admire.&#8221;
Finally, Munger encouraged working alongside people whose company one genuinely enjoys. He argued that excelling in any field requires a deep interest in the subject and enjoyment of the process. He advocated for aligning one&#8217;s work with personal interests and surrounding oneself with enjoyable colleagues. 
&#8220;I've had marvelous partners, full of assiduity, all my life. I think I got them partly because I tried to deserve them, and partly because I was shrewd enough to select them, and partly because there was some luck,&#8221; he concluded. &nbsp;
Why It Matters: Munger&#8217;s career and life philosophy have been a guiding light for many in the investment world. His emphasis on integrity, reputation, and passion for work, coupled with his successful partnership with Warren Buffett, have left an indelible mark on the industry. 
His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill, but his teachings and principles will continue to inspire and guide future generations of investors. His legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, integrity, and passion in achieving success.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/06/39347990/this-famous-piece-of-wisdom-from-charlie-munger-can-go-a-long-way-in-investing-and-in-life-say-inves" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">This Famous Piece Of Wisdom From Charlie Munger Can Go A Long Way In Investing — And In Life, Say Investment Experts</a>

Success Stories

COST

DJCO

Charlie Munger's 3 Rules For Success: 'Don't Sell What You Wouldn't Buy, Work For Those You Admire, Partner With People You Enjoy'

Billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban has shared that the best time to start a business is when you&#8217;re at your lowest. This strategy, he says, is what <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41196856/heres-how-mark-cubans-drunken-splurge-of-125-000-turned-into-a-profitable-investment">transformed him into a millionaire</a>.
What Happened: In a recent podcast interview, Cuban said that having nothing to lose is the ideal time to kickstart a business. This was his situation&nbsp;when he launched his first&nbsp;tech company, MicroSolutions, in 1983.
Cuban, who had recently lost his job and was living in a crowded apartment, sold MicroSolutions seven years later for $6 million, turning him into a millionaire. His subsequent venture, Broadcast.com, was&nbsp;sold to Yahoo for $6&nbsp;billion in 1999, catapulting him into the billionaire&#8217;s club.
"If you've got nothing, it's the perfect time to start a business. If you want to take that next step, you have to be able to deal with the consequences of changing your circumstances. Creating a business gives you the greatest potential upside and the greatest leverage on your time, but it also creates the most risk,&#8221; Cuban <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0cn3VBjfN8g">said</a>.  
Today, 66-year-old Cuban boasts&nbsp;an estimated net worth of&nbsp;$7.79 billion. He underscored the significance of being ready for the risks and uncertainties that come with entrepreneurship. 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41703723/mark-cubans-million-dollar-advice-to-teens-if-i-were-16-again-id-start-this-lucrative-side-hustle" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Cuban's Million-Dollar Advice To Teens: ‘If I Were 16 Again, I'd Start This Lucrative Side Hustle'</a>
He further recommended&nbsp;saving at least six months&#8217;&nbsp;worth of living expenses and conducting an in-depth study of the prospective business&#8217; industry.
Why It Matters: Cuban&#8217;s advice comes at a time when many are grappling with job losses and financial instability due to the ongoing pandemic. 
His success story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. His emphasis on preparedness and research highlights the importance of strategic planning in business. 
His journey from a crowded apartment to a billionaire&#8217;s lifestyle is a testament to the power of resilience and determination in the face of adversity.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42380812/mark-cuban-shares-the-one-thing-he-splurged-on-after-striking-it-rich-im-not-a-big-spender">Mark Cuban Shares The One Thing He Splurged On After Striking It Rich: &#8216;I&#8217;M Not A Big Spender&#8217;</a>

Mark Cuban's Success Mantra: 'If You've Got Nothing, It's The Perfect Time To Start A Business'

Maye Musk is proving that reinvention and resilience can open doors, no matter your age or industry. Known primarily as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/12/42381822/elon-musks-mom-maye-says-she-likes-to-sit-in-on-meetings-with-her-son-and-ramaswamy-says-wealthy-and-billionaire-are-degrading-words">Elon Musk's mother</a>, Maye has carved her path as a model, author and dietitian with a thriving presence on the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu – often dubbed "RedNote" by English speakers, but also Douyin and Weibo.&nbsp;
As <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43035577/nio-ceo-welcomes-tiktok-users-to-rednote-amid-us-ban-concerns">TikTok users look for new platforms</a> due to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/43049496/as-tiktok-faces-us-ban-vpn-searches-skyrocket-800-will-workarounds-work-experts-weigh-in">possible bans in the U.S.</a> and other countries, Maye's rise on Xiaohongshu shows how people and businesses can use these platforms to grow.
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<li>The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?</li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A New Kind of Influencer</h2>
At 76, Maye Musk is not your typical influencer. With more than 577,000 followers on Xiaohongshu, she publishes various lifestyle content, such as postings about travel, wellness and cultural appreciation, as The Guardian recently reported. Her captions, like "Feel the oriental aesthetics" and "Let's review the wonderful experience in 2024," resonate with her audience, who see her as a role model for aging gracefully and embracing new challenges.
Interestingly, she has reportedly been compared to figures like Henry Kissinger for fostering goodwill between cultures, showing her strong impact in China.
Maye's popularity matches a trend in China called "silver influencers." These are older people who inspire younger generations, like Millennials and Gen Z. Most of Maye's followers are young women who admire her independence, style and strength.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/62-years-old-with-1-mil-saved">I&#8217;m 62 Years Old And Have $1.2 Million Saved. Is This Enough to Retire Stress-Free?</a>
Maye's influence extends beyond social media. In recent years, she's become a global ambassador for brands like Oppo, AISE Baobao and Fila, attending high-profile events in China's fashion and luxury sectors. She has walked in fashion shows for JNBY and attended events for brands like Moncler alongside stars like Rihanna and A$AP Rocky.
Her endorsements highlight the business potential of tapping into China's consumer market. With <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42737037/tesla-shanghai-megafactory-starts-trial-production-seven-months-after-breaking-ground">Tesla's largest factory in Shanghai</a> and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42637260/elon-musk-accused-of-bullying-republicans-to-scrap-us-china-investment-safeguards-to-protect-teslas-interests">Elon Musk's strong ties to the country</a>, Maye's rising popularity complements her son's business interests, fostering goodwill for the Musk brand.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Bestselling Author in China</h2>
Maye's book, A Woman Makes a Plan, has also found a receptive audience in China. Its Chinese edition has been described as a bestseller, with readers praising her life story of overcoming adversity and thriving in multiple careers. Her narrative – from surviving an abusive marriage to raising three successful children and building her career – strikes a chord in a culture that values perseverance and self-reliance.
Trending: 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">Lessons for Business and Finance</h2>
Maye's success on Xiaohongshu provides valuable insights for businesses and entrepreneurs. As TikTok faces potential bans in some countries, diversifying onto platforms like Xiaohongshu can help safeguard and expand reach, particularly in lucrative markets like China. Maye's posts emphasize the importance of authenticity, showing how sharing personal stories and values can foster deeper connections with audiences.
The rise of "silver influencers," like Maye, reveals the untapped potential of older demographics in marketing. Including diverse age groups in campaigns can broaden a brand's appeal and impact. Additionally, Maye's embrace of Chinese culture – from celebrating festivals to appreciating infrastructure – has strengthened her relatability and appeal in the local market.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A New Era of Influence</h2>
As some TikTok creators migrate to Xiaohongshu amid uncertainty, Maye Musk's flourishing presence demonstrates the platform's viability for global influencers and businesses. Her ability to connect with young audiences while staying true to her brand is a master class in adaptability and innovation – qualities any entrepreneur or marketer can learn from.
Read Next:
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<li>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></li>
<li>Built on the trusted network of Fortune 500 companies, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/web3-enabler-the-most-boring-blockchain-company-partners-with-salesforce">this blockchain company partners with Salesforce to uproot lengthy and expensive B2B transactions, and you can invest with just $100.</a></li>
</ul>

Elon Musk's Mom Maye – Model, Author And 'International Dietitian' – Is A Sensation On RedNote As TikTokers Flee To The Chinese Platform

In a surprising revelation, Jeffrey Epstein, the disgraced financier, was allegedly offered a plea deal <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41703154/michael-wolff-on-donald-trump-jeffrey-epstein-relationship">by federal prosecutors</a>.
What Happened: The deal was contingent on Epstein providing information that could potentially lead to the impeachment of President-elect Donald Trump. This claim comes from Epstein&#8217;s former cellmate.
Epstein&#8217;s ex-cellmate, Nicholas Tartaglione, made the startling claim that Epstein was given an opportunity to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for information against Trump. 
According to the report <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/01/18/us-news/feds-offered-jeffrey-epstein-a-deal-for-dirt-on-trump-ex-cellmate/">by</a> The New York Post, Tartaglione, a former Westchester cop and convicted murderer, was Epstein&#8217;s cellmate at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan a few weeks before Epstein&#8217;s death in August 2019.
According to Tartaglione, Epstein disclosed the details of the deal after a meeting with federal prosecutors. 
Epstein was quoted as saying, &#8220;They told me they&#8217;d&nbsp;let me plead out something&nbsp;small, and I&#8217;ll&nbsp;do just a couple of&nbsp;years in a camp, if&nbsp;I can give them something&nbsp;on Trump to get him&nbsp;impeached.&#8221;
"He says, but the government told me I don't have to prove what I say about Trump, as long as Trump's people can't disprove it," Tartaglione told the outlet adding that Epstein considered "making stuff up" to save his skin. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/05/38630738/jeffrey-epsteins-second-black-book-is-up-for-sale-and-it-contains-the-names-of-over-200-previously-u">Jeffrey Epstein&#8217;s Second &#8216;Black Book&#8217; Is Up For Sale — And It Contains The Names Of Over 200 Previously Undisclosed People, Including Carl Icahn</a>
Epstein, who was facing a slew of charges&nbsp;including sex trafficking of minors&nbsp;and sexual exploitation, was found dead in his cell in August 2019. His death has been a hotbed of controversy and speculation.
Tartaglione also shared that Epstein confessed he didn&#8217;t have any significant information about Trump. Epstein reportedly told Tartaglione that his relationship with Trump was purely social and they were not friends. 
Tartaglione further claimed that Epstein contemplated fabricating information to save himself.
No other source has confirmed the allegations made by Tartaglione. Representatives for Manhattan federal prosecutors have&nbsp;declined to comment on these claims.
Why It Matters: This revelation, if true, could add a new dimension to the Epstein case and the controversies surrounding President Trump. It raises questions about the lengths prosecutors were willing to go to gather information against Trump. 
However, with Epstein&#8217;s death and the lack of any other source to confirm these allegations, the truth of these claims remains uncertain.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/22/06/27557540/musk-says-he-wants-to-see-epstein-maxwell-client-list-twitterati-cant-stop-trolling-him-3">Musk Asks Why Epstein-Maxwell Client List Hasn&#8217;t Leaked, Responds To Twitter User Who Suggested He Was A Client Himself</a>

Politics

Jeffrey Epstein Allegedly Offered Plea Deal In Exchange For Trump Info: 'If I Can Give Them Something On Trump To Get Him Impeached'

Sherpa, a highly followed crypto analyst, has forecasted a significant surge for the altcoin Hyperliquid (CRYPTO: HYPE). 
What Happened: In a <a href="https://x.com/AltcoinSherpa/status/1880248083956789654">post</a> on X, Sherpa shared his bullish perspective on Hyperliquid. The crypto analyst anticipates that HYPE, a utility token of the decentralized open financial system, could surge by at least 116% from its current level before the end of this cycle.
Despite seeing potential in HYPE, Sherpa advises his followers to gradually scale in their positions. He also mentioned, &#8220;Not one to give you&nbsp;a 10x at these current&nbsp;levels for this cycle in&nbsp;my opinion but could still&nbsp;be a safe one to&nbsp;hold.&#8221;
Last month, the altcoin&nbsp;earned $26.5 million in USDC revenue through platform fees and ticker auctions.
Regarding XRP, Sherpa advises patience, noting that it&#8217;s&nbsp;not at an ideal level&nbsp;for long entries. When it comes to Cardano (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ada/usd">ADA</a>), Sherpa sees strength in the altcoin&nbsp;on the weekly time frame, predicting it could continue to rise if other first-generation altcoins appreciate.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39125451/crypto-trader-says-these-two-meme-coins-are-set-to-spike-and-neither-of-them-are-dogecoin-">Crypto Trader Says These Two Meme Coins Are Set To Spike — And Neither Of Them Are Dogecoin Or Shiba Inu</a>
Lastly, Sherpa remains optimistic about Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>),&nbsp;the largest memecoin by market&nbsp;cap. He suggests that DOGE could trade within a range for a&nbsp;while before revisiting its&nbsp;42-month high of around $0.485.
Why It Matters: Sherpa&#8217;s predictions are significant given his large following and the current volatile nature of the crypto market. His bullish outlook on Hyperliquid could potentially influence other traders and investors. 
His cautionary advice on XRP and optimism for Cardano and Dogecoin also provide valuable insights for those navigating the crypto market. 
However, as always, investors should conduct their own research and consider multiple perspectives before making investment decisions.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42319671/ethereum-killer-hyperliquid-explodes-for-274-7-day-gain-could-create-more-millionaires-than-microsoft-at-this-rate-trader-says">Hyperliquid Explodes For 274% 7-Day Gain, Could Create &#8216;More Millionaires Than Microsoft At This Rate,&#8217; Trader Says</a>

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

Cryptocurrency

Markets

$ADA

$DOGE

Forget Dogecoin And Shiba Inu - This Altcoin Expected To Skyrocket By 116% Before End Of This Cycle

German opposition leader Friedrich Merz, who is seen as the frontrunner to become the country&#8217;s next chancellor, said that Donald Trump&#8216;s second term will provide <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/eurozone/25/01/43061813/german-voters-head-to-polls-to-tackle-immigration-economic-stagnation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">more clarity for the European Union</a>.
Merz made the comments during a meeting in Berlin with key conservative EU figures, including Manfred Weber, the head of the European People&#8217;s Party (EPP), the largest group in the European Parliament, reports Reuters.
While Merz views Trump&#8217;s predictability as beneficial for European planning, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42935683/scholz-warns-of-tension-with-trump-as-border-integrity-and-nato-spending-loom-over-germanys-election" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expressed concerns about Trump&#8217;s foreign policy</a>.
Scholz has specifically raised alarms over Trump&#8217;s rhetoric on border integrity, particularly his remarks about neighboring countries like Canada and Greenland. Scholz stressed that the inviolability of borders is a core principle of Western values and warned that no smaller country should fear its larger neighbors.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43074163/exclusive-will-bitcoin-dogecoin-shiba-inu-or-xrp-gain-more-on-trumps-inauguration-day-41-pick-this-crypto" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: Will Bitcoin, Dogecoin, Shiba Inu Or XRP Gain More On Trump&#8217;s Inauguration Day? 41% Pick This Crypto</a>
Merz, on the other hand, emphasized the importance of European unity, particularly in relation to the U.S, Reuters adds.
He argued that Europe must present a united front to be respected globally and to strengthen its position within the Western alliance.
With Trump&#8217;s inauguration imminent, Merz suggested that his hawkish policies could present opportunities for Europe, especially in terms of joint military procurement.
As Germany&#8217;s conservative opposition leader, Merz is poised to succeed Scholz after the collapse of Scholz&#8217;s coalition government over economic disagreements.
Merz believes that Trump&#8217;s second term could accelerate efforts to bring European power together, allowing Europe to act more cohesively on the global stage.
The contrasting views between Merz and Scholz highlight the complex challenges European leaders face as they navigate a changing transatlantic relationship under a returning Trump administration.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43059744/exclusive-can-sp-500-repeat-large-gains-from-donald-trumps-first-term-a-second-time-around-readers-say-this-return-range-most-likely" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: Can S&amp;P 500 Repeat Large Gains From Donald Trump&#8217;s First Term A Second Time Around? Readers Say This Return Range Most Likely</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

General

German Opposition Leader Sees Trump's Return as a Clarifying Force for EU

JPMorgan Chase&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) has reportedly spent an enormous $2.14 billion on legal costs over the last two years.
What Happened: The bank&#8217;s 8-K <a href="https://data.fca.org.uk/artefacts/NSM/Portal/NI-000110939/NI-000110939.pdf">filings</a> with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission indicate that it expended $1.4 billion in 2023 and $740 million in 2024 on legal disputes.
These expenses encompass a significant settlement with the SEC, where JPMorgan disbursed&nbsp;$151 million in combined civil&nbsp;penalties and voluntary payments to&nbsp;investors.
Recently, the&nbsp;Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)&nbsp;initiated a lawsuit against JPMorgan,&nbsp;along with Bank of America,&nbsp;Wells Fargo, and Zelle, for alleged failures to&nbsp;address widespread fraud and unauthorized&nbsp;transactions on the Zelle platform.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42965086/peter-lynchs-money-making-advice-when-things-go-from-terrible-to-semi-terrible-to-ok-you-can-make-a">Peter Lynch&#8217;s Money-Making Advice: &#8216;When Things Go From Terrible to Semi-Terrible to OK, You Can Make a Lot of Money&#8217;</a>
Since 2000,&nbsp;JPMorgan has paid more than&nbsp;$40 billion in fines and&nbsp;settlements due&nbsp;to anti-competitive practices, securities abuses, and other violations, as per the public Violation Tracker.
Why It Matters: Despite the hefty legal expenses, JPMorgan managed to report a profit of $14 billion in Q4 2024, marking&nbsp;its largest-ever annual profit at&nbsp;$58.5 billion. This indicates the bank&#8217;s resilience and ability to weather financial storms.
The lawsuit filed by the CFPB also puts a spotlight on the bank&#8217;s ability to manage fraud and unauthorized transactions, especially on digital platforms like Zelle. 
As digital transactions continue to rise, the ability to effectively manage and prevent fraud will be critical for maintaining customer trust and loyalty.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/11/35865043/us-banks-are-abruptly-freezing-accounts-heres-how-you-can-save-yours">US Banks Are Abruptly Freezing Accounts — Here&#8217;s How You Can Save Yours</a>

Here's The Jaw-Dropping Total JPMorgan Chase Paid To Fight Legal Battles Over Two Years

In an interview with Barron&#8217;s in 2019, celebrated investor Peter Lynch shared his unique perspective on identifying high-potential companies and the significance <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">of investing in growth stocks.</a>
What Happened: Lynch stressed the importance of understanding a company&#8217;s narrative and investing in stocks that are in the &#8220;second innings of the ballgame.&#8221;
He elaborated that growth stocks, characterized by substantial sales growth, outperform non-growth stocks.
Lynch also noted the success of passive management in asset accumulation, a trend not observed at&nbsp;Fidelity. He highlighted that numerous funds at Fidelity have consistently outperformed their benchmarks over the years.
According to Lynch, the hallmark of a great company is that investors don&#8217;t need to fret about the bigger picture. He used&nbsp;Stop &amp; Shop&nbsp;and&nbsp;Dunkin&#8217; Donuts&nbsp;as examples of thriving local businesses.
Speaking with <a href="https://www.barrons.com/articles/peter-lynch-how-to-find-growth-opportunities-in-todays-stock-market-51576877980">the</a> outlet, Lynch recommended investors to stay in the stock market during the &#8220;second inning of the ballgame&#8221; and exit by the seventh, a period that could span 30 years. He cautioned against drawing conclusions without a solid foundation.
&#8220;My best stocks have been ones where I didn't have to worry about the big picture. A company with a better mousetrap, a growth company in a non-growth industry,&#8221; Lynch said. 
He expressed apprehension about the current scarcity of growth companies and the trend of capital concentration in a handful of firms. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42935107/peter-lynchs-money-making-advice-when-things-go-from-terrible-to-semi-terrible-to-ok-you-can-make-a-lot-of-money">Peter Lynch&#8217;s Money-Making Advice: &#8216;When Things Go From Terrible to Semi-Terrible to OK, You Can Make a Lot of Money&#8217;</a>
Lynch also touched upon the challenges created by companies remaining private for extended periods, which complicates matters for individual investors.
On the topic of unicorns, Lynch suggested that the next Google might remain private for an additional decade, further complicating the landscape for individual investors. 
Lynch also advised investors to adhere to certain rules, comprehend the story of the company they are investing in, and scrutinize the financials before making an investment.
&#8220;You can see things better. The one thing I want everybody who is buying individual stocks to get is that they have to understand the story, the five reasons something is going to go right for the company. If you can't convince an 8-year-old why you own this thing, you probably shouldn't own it. Don't invest in a company before you look at the financials. If you made it through fifth grade, you can handle the math,&#8221; he said during the interview. 
Why It Matters: Lynch&#8217;s investment philosophy has always centered around understanding the company&#8217;s story and its growth potential. His advice comes at a time when the market is seeing a scarcity of growth companies, and money is increasingly flowing into a select few. 
His insights serve as a reminder for investors to be diligent, understand the companies they invest in, and not be swayed by market trends without a solid basis.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/stock-split/25/01/42804677/investment-guru-peter-lynch-if-you-invest-only-in-an-index-youll-never-beat-it-brushing-up-on-stock-picking-skills-is-wise" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Investment Guru Peter Lynch: ‘If You Invest Only in an Index, You'll Never Beat It. Brushing Up on Stock-Picking Skills Is Wise'</a>
Image: Shutterstock

MSFT

Peter Lynch's Advice: 'Don't Invest in a Company Before You Look At the Financials. If You Made It Through Fifth Grade, You Can Handle the Math'

America&#8217;s ageing population does not only show up in a larger proportion of adults nearing or reaching retirement, advisors themselves are also aging out of the business. Yet preparations for how to deal with this shift are at all-time lows in the industry, according to a <a href="https://www.planadviser.com/ria-succession-planning-hits-new-low/">new national survey</a> by consultancy DeVoe &amp; Co.
The firm polled 100 senior RIA executives, principals and owners whose responses reveal that only 42% of advisories have written succession plans in place. That&#8217;s the lowest number since the firm started asking the question in 2019.
While soaring advisory valuations make it less likely that junior employees will be able to buy out founders, consultants at DeVoe point out that succession planning is important not just for economic reasons, but to ensure steady management and reliability. That in turn may increase the value of the advisory even more, which would help founders looking to sell to a competitor and retire.
One big hurdle DeVoe identified is that respondents generally say they&#8217;d prefer to have their companies taken over by internal candidates, though they also report a lack of trust in the next generation. Only one-third say they trust the next generation to take care of their company, another third have medium confidence. The remaining third has none at all.
This suggests there&#8217;s a huge gap in expectations and training between senior advisor executives and partners on the one hand, and their more junior employees on the other. For a smoother transition, better client experience and higher advisory valuation, advisories should consider instituting mentoring and training programs to quickly and internally build up a suite of potential leaders that executives will trust to manage the company.
To enable that, advisories will need to use financial incentives to attract the best advisors so they can be trained for leadership roles. DeVoe&#8217;s survey identifies another gap. Only 49% of respondents said they have a clear plan for compensating advisors, with another 28% saying they give informal direction and 15% saying they give discretionary bonuses. Most respondents would not recommend their company&#8217;s compensation plan to a friend.
This marks a huge opportunity for RIAs. Reworking incentive plans will help hire, cultivate and retain the best talent, as well as ensure a smooth transition for the company.

Financial Advisors

Gaps In RIA Succession Planning Reveal Opportunities

HHS Secretary-designate Robert F. Kennedy Jr.&#8217;s pledge to ban high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and seed oils has reportedly raised concerns among corn farmers, particularly in key <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/11/42254495/trumps-hhs-pick-rfk-jr-has-a-long-history-of-challenging-global-health-policies" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump-supporting regions like western Ohio</a>.
Corn farming in this area is a major industry, and a significant portion of the crop is used to produce HFCS, a sweetener found in a wide range of processed foods, reports The Guardian.
Kennedy, selected by President-elect Donald Trump to head the Department of Health and Human Services, has been vocal about his desire to reduce the use of HFCS, which he links to health issues like obesity and diabetes.
With about 8% of U.S. corn dedicated to HFCS production, farmers worry that any shift away from this market could drastically impact their incomes.
Experts estimate that up to 1.4 billion bushels of corn could be displaced if a ban is implemented, leading to a potential drop in prices.
Also Read:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/01/43073652/tesla-apple-meta-and-dogecoin-influencers-see-pattern-for-post-2025-inauguration-rally" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Tesla, Apple, Meta And Dogecoin Influencers See Pattern For Post-2025 Inauguration Rally</a>
However, while concerns are real, many farmers in Ohio&#8217;s Darke and Shelby counties, where Trump enjoys strong support, are adopting a &#8220;wait-and-see&#8221; approach, the report adds.
The U.S. Corn Refiners Association, which represents major agribusinesses, declined to comment on the potential impact of Kennedy&#8217;s stance.
Meanwhile, some farmers, like Dan Kelley from Illinois, are more focused on external factors such as global competition and trade tariffs than on Kennedy&#8217;s health-focused policies, The Guardian adds.
Despite Kennedy&#8217;s outspoken views on food reform, experts don&#8217;t expect immediate changes to the HFCS market.
Although corn and seed crops are a significant component of U.S. agriculture, the demand for high fructose corn syrup has dropped by nearly 50% since 1999.
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</ul>

Equities

RFK Jr. Pledge Could Shatter Corn Industry: Farmers Brace for Impact

House Speaker Mike Johnson says that his first private meeting with President Joe Biden left him deeply concerned, as Biden appeared unaware of an executive order he had recently signed.
What Happened: In an interview with The Free Press, Johnson alleged that Biden's cognitive state and lack of engagement have raised doubts about his leadership. 
Johnson said that he believed that Biden was not actively managing the country and was instead &#8220;signing what others were putting in front of him.&#8221; The order signed by Biden, which paused liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to Europe, prompted Johnson to ask, "Who is running the country?"
During the discussion, Johnson recalled a January 2022 meeting at the White House. Despite his initial requests for a private meeting with Biden being delayed for months, Johnson said he eventually had a brief one-on-one interaction after an initial session with several Democratic leaders, Vice President Kamala Harris, and a CIA official. 
Biden reportedly asked his advisers to leave the room, allowing the Speaker and the president to speak directly.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/37054062/democrats-are-reportedly-worried-about-the-narrative-around-joe-bidens-memory-lapses">Democrats Are Reportedly Worried About The Narrative Around Joe Biden&#8217;s Memory Lap ses</a>
According to <a href="https://www.thefp.com/p/when-mike-johnson-knew-joe-biden-not-in-charge">the</a> interview, Johnson shared that he brought up concerns regarding a recent executive order impacting his Louisiana constituents. "I asked him, ‘Mr. President, why did you pause LNG exports to Europe? This is causing massive damage to our economy and helping Russian President Vladimir Putin's war efforts,&#8221; Johnson recounted.
According to the Speaker, Biden appeared confused and denied signing such an order. Johnson pressed further, insisting the president had indeed issued the directive, which Biden reportedly attributed to a study on LNG impacts rather than a ban.
"It occurred to me he genuinely did not know what he had signed," Johnson said, describing the encounter as unsettling. He added, "I walked out of that meeting with fear and loathing because I thought, ‘We're in serious trouble.'"
In January 2024, the White House announced a temporary halt on pending LNG export approvals, citing its climate agenda as the primary reason. 
The decision has faced criticism from energy industry stakeholders and lawmakers, particularly from regions reliant on LNG exports.
On Saturday, Elon Musk responded to Johnson&#8217;s statement and said Biden was not in charge.
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<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">As I said a few years ago, Biden was not in charge. Whoever controlled his teleprompter was. <a href="https://t.co/kzwQpWlzx8">https://t.co/kzwQpWlzx8</a>
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1880674586486067387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40764496/biden-took-48-years-worth-of-average-workers-vacation-days-in-less-than-four-years-as-president">Biden Took 48 Years&#8217; Worth Of Average Worker&#8217;s Vacation Days In Less Than Four Years As President</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Speaker Johnson Raises Doubts Over Biden's Awareness of His Own Executive Orders: 'Who Is Running the Country?'

Let's talk about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/41075540/is-your-401-k-balance-above-average-find-out-if-youre-beating-most-savers">your nest egg</a>. No, not in a "Why haven't you saved more?" way – this isn't a guilt trip. Instead, think of this as a friendly check-in. Whether your savings are soaring or just getting off the ground, it's natural to wonder: How do I measure up? And for those of you eyeing the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41127976/are-you-a-rich-retiree-heres-the-net-worth-and-income-you-need-to-be-in-the-top-10">top 10% of retirement savers</a>, these numbers will show you exactly what it takes.
Spoiler: It's not all doom and gloom; there's always time to make moves. Let's break it down.
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<li>The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?</li>
<li>Can you guess how many Americans successfully retire with $1,000,000 saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/1milsaved"> The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
</ul>
The Averages: Are You Ahead or Behind?
First, let's look at what the average American has saved for retirement by age group. According to the 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances, here's where things stand:
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Average Retirement Savings by Age Group</h2>
Under 35:
• Average savings: $49,130
• Median savings: $18,880
Ages 35-44:
• Average savings: $141,520
• Median savings: $45,000
Ages 45-54:
• Average savings: $313,220
• Median savings: $115,000
Ages 55-64:
• Average savings: $537,560
• Median savings: $185,000
Ages 65-74:
• Average savings: $609,230
• Median savings: $200,000
75 and older:
• Average savings: $462,410
• Median savings: $130,000
If you're beating these averages, that's worth celebrating! But maybe you're eyeing the next level – joining the top 10%. What does that look like?
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/qnetic-2">This 12,000 RPM Spinning Battery With Over $100 Million In LOIs Could Be The Missing Link For Green Energy — Here&#8217;s Why Early Investors Are Flocking To Invest Before Funding Closes</a>
The Top 10%: Where the Big Savers Are
The top 10% of retirement savers are in a league of their own. Here's what it takes to join their ranks:
Median savings: Around $900,000.
Average savings: Roughly $1.3 million.
It's important to mention the average is higher because a few ultra-wealthy savers skew the numbers, while the median shows what most people have.
By age 50, the top 10% of savers often have over $500,000 tucked away.
By 55, they're typically closing in on $750,000 or more.
And the crème de la crème? The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/04/38525546/are-you-on-track-to-join-the-top-1-in-retirement-savings-heres-how-much-they-have-at-every-age">top 1% boast savings of $2.3 million</a>. But, when considering a broader definition of retirement assets, the number soars to $5 million, according to data from DQYDJ, using stats from the Federal Reserve.
What Should You Aim For?
Even if the top 10% feels far off, financial experts offer benchmarks to keep you on track for a comfortable retirement:
• Age 30: Save 1x your annual salary.
• Age 40: 3x your salary.
• Age 50: 6x your salary.
• Age 60: 8x your salary.
• Age 67: 10x your salary.
These milestones aren't hard rules – life happens. But they're a good starting point to see where you stand.
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>
Want to Boost Your Savings? Here's How
If your savings feel a little underwhelming, don't stress. There are plenty of ways to catch up:
1. Max out retirement contributions: Contribute as much as possible to your 401(k) or IRA. And if your employer offers a match, grab that free money!
2. Start saving early: The earlier you start, the more compound interest works in your favor. If you're late to the game, don't worry – you can still catch up.
3. Take advantage of catch-up contributions: For those over 50, you can sock away an additional $7,500 annually in your 401(k). Starting in 2025, individuals aged 60-63 can save up to $11,250.
4. Cut unnecessary expenses: Redirect what you save toward your retirement fund. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/07/39989781/suze-orman-reveals-the-one-expense-you-must-cut-in-retirement-the-very-last-thing-i-would-think-">Small sacrifices now</a> can lead to big wins later.
5. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/11/41726342/can-you-guess-what-asset-the-ultra-wealthy-invest-in-most-heres-a-hint-its-not-stocks">Diversify your investments</a>. A mix of stocks, bonds and other assets can balance risk and grow your nest egg.
It's Not Too Late to Make Moves
If you're behind, don't panic – it's never too late to start. Whether you're playing catch-up in your 50s or just starting in your 20s, every little bit counts. The key is consistency and making smart financial choices now to give your future self a leg up.
So, how does your nest egg stack up? If you're already ahead of the averages, you're in a great spot. And if not, now's the perfect time to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">build a plan</a> and take control of your financial future. Remember, retirement savings aren't about perfection – they're about progress.
&#x2A;This information is not financial advice and personalized guidance from a financial adviser is recommended for making well-informed decisions.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/suze-orman-retirement-bucket">&#8216;Which Bucket Do I Draw From First?&#8217; Suze Orman Explains To 67-Year-Old The Best Order For Tapping Into Her Retirement Accounts</a></li>
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Personal Finance

How Does Your Nest Egg Stack Up? Here's What It Takes To Be In The Top 10% Of Retirement Savers

American workers are increasingly trading higher salaries for the ability to work from home, marking a shift in how employees value workplace flexibility versus compensation.
Half of U.S. workers would accept a pay cut to work remotely, with 26% willing to take a 5% reduction and 24% open to cuts of 10% or even 15%, according to a FlexJobs survey cited by Newsweek. Some workers would give up more than money – 23% would <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/03/37969308/fyi-fully-remote-workers-are-more-likely-to-be-passed-up-for-promotion">forgo professional development opportunities</a>, while others would sacrifice vacation days or health insurance benefits.
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<li>The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?</li>
<li>According to Juniper Research, the total value of B2B cross-border payments stored on the blockchain is projected to exceed $4.4 trillion — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/web3-enabler-future-of-enterprise-transactions">Join the first company to bring blockchain payments to Salesforce early with just $100.</a></li>
</ul>
&#8220;There&#8217;s this unspoken exchange rate between flexibility and compensation and for some candidates, it&#8217;s worth a significant trade-off,&#8221; Theresa L. Fesinstine, founder of peoplepower.ai, told Fortune.
This shift comes as employers and employees wrestle over return-to-office mandates.&nbsp;
Companies have responded by increasingly using remote work as a bargaining chip, while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/01/42899482/73-of-execs-want-you-back-in-the-office-heres-why-and-how-it-impacts-the-economy">others demand a return to in-office work</a>. The HR firm Robert Half reports that 35% of new job postings in last year&#8217;s third quarter offered remote or hybrid options, up from 30% the previous year.
&#8220;While some employers are requiring workers to come back to the office full- or part-time, flexibility remains a leading factor influencing workers&#8217; decisions to stay in their current roles or seek new opportunities,&#8221; Robert Half&#8217;s district president Michelle Reisdorf told Newsweek.
See Also: Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.26/share!</a>
The trade-off between salary and flexibility might be financially rational for some workers. Dr. Alison Collins of Manchester Metropolitan University Business School notes that reduced commuting costs could offset salary reductions of around 10%.
Looking ahead, the dynamic may shift again.&nbsp;
Robert Half projects a hiring boom in 2025, with 63% of companies planning to add positions in the year&#8217;s first half. The increased competition for talent could force employers to offer both flexibility and competitive pay.
The trend reveals deeper changes in how Americans view work-life balance post-pandemic. For many, the ability to work from home has become a benefit worth paying for – even if it means accepting a smaller paycheck.
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Why Americans Are Accepting Pay Cuts For Remote Jobs – And What It Means For The Economy

Sonos Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SONO#NASDAQ">SONO</a>) is grappling with the most severe crisis in its history in the aftermath of a catastrophic software rollout last year. Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman says that several tech giants could potentially save the digital speaker company, with most speculation centering on a possible acquisition by Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>).
What Happened: In his latest Power On newsletter, Gurman <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/01/42947823/sonos-shares-jump-after-company-announces-ceo-transition-the-details">writes</a> that Sonos launched a revamped app last May that was intended to refresh the Sonos experience and pave the way for new products. However, the app was riddled with bugs and missing key features, leading to significant user dissatisfaction and tarnishing the brand&#8217;s image.
Six months post the app&#8217;s launch, the company bid farewell to CEO Patrick Spence and its chief product officer. Tom Conrad, Pandora&#8217;s co-creator and a former executive at Snap Inc., has stepped in as the interim CEO.
With Sonos&#8217; market valuation plummeting to approximately $1.7 billion from over $5 billion, the board is contemplating whether selling the company might be a feasible solution. Apple, given its similar emphasis on premium design and audio technology, is viewed as a potential buyer.
Other possible buyers include:
<ul>
<li>Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), which Gurman says &#8220;seems like the most natural fit,&#8221;</li>
<li>Samsung Electronics Co. (KRX: 005930), a possible &#8220;wild card,&#8221;</li>
<li>Roku Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ROKU#NASDAQ">ROKU</a>), though it &#8220;would probably face antitrust concerns,&#8221; and </li>
<li>Spotify Technology SA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPOT#NYSE">SPOT</a>), which &#8220;has long wanted to get into hardware but struggled to make it happen.&#8221;</li>
</ul>
Despite the rumors, many within Sonos are of the opinion that Conrad may become the permanent CEO if he is open to accepting the role.
Why It Matters: The turmoil at Sonos began with the departure of CEO Patrick Spence. The company&#8217;s shares took a hit following the announcement of the CEO transition.
The subsequent software debacle further eroded the company&#8217;s market value, leading to the current speculation about a potential sale.
The outcome of this crisis could significantly impact the future of Sonos and its stakeholders.

AAPL

AMZN

ROKU

SPOT

Could Cupertino Save Struggling Sonos? Speculation About Apple Bid Abounds

Anthony Scaramucci has expressed his disapproval of President-elect Donald Trump&#8216;s newly launched meme coin TRUMP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">TRUMP</a>), <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40666453/scaramucci-trump-is-in-trouble-and-he-knows-it-slams-him-on-conflicting-abortion-statements-hes-shot">labeling it &#8220;corruption.&#8221;</a>
What Happened: On Saturday, Trump announced the launch of his official &#8220;$TRUMP&#8221; meme coin. The coin, which was developed by Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>), has received a substantial market response, with its price escalating from $0.18 to $26.95, marking&nbsp;a 253.75 percent increase in&nbsp;just 24 hours. 
The coin&#8217;s market cap then reached to a staggering $5.39 billion.
Responding to the launch of TRUMP meme coin, Scaramucci criticized the venture on X and referred to&nbsp;it as &#8220;corruption&#8221; and &#8220;bad&nbsp;for the industry.&#8221;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">The Trump meme coin stuff is bad for the industry. Don't delude yourself. It's Idi Amin level corruption.
&mdash; Anthony Scaramucci (@Scaramucci) <a href="https://twitter.com/Scaramucci/status/1880570676043727354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
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</figure>
This is not Trump&#8217;s first foray into selling merchandise featuring his image. He has previously sold items such as digital trading cards, high-top sneakers, T-shirts, and Bibles. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41866624/scaramucci-on-trump-win-i-got-it-wrong-im-not-going-to-whine-about-it">Scaramucci On Trump Win: &#8216;I Got It Wrong, I&#8217;m Not Going To Whine About It&#8217;</a>
His niece Mary Trump has accused him in the past of &#8220;grifting&#8221; through the sale of such merchandise. The meme coin was launched just days before Trump&#8217;s inauguration as president.
Why It Matters: The launch of the &#8220;$TRUMP&#8221; meme coin and its subsequent market response is indicative of the growing influence of cryptocurrencies. However, the criticism from Scaramucci, a former aide and industry insider, raises questions about the ethical implications of such ventures. 
This incident underscores the need for clear regulations and transparency in the cryptocurrency industry to prevent potential misuse and ensure investor protection.
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Image: Shutterstock

$SOL

$TRUMP

Scaramucci Criticizes Donald Trump's Meme Coin Launch: 'Idi Amin-Level Corruption'

As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, one person who won&#8217;t accompany him this time is his daughter Ivanka and her husband, Jared Kushner. The mainstays of the last Trump presidency are done with politics.&nbsp;
The couple relocated to Florida in 2021 and will stay in Miami when Trump Sr. leaves Palm Beach nearby for DC. Speaking on the &#8220;The Skinny Confidential&#8221; podcast, Ivanka candidly stated that she &#8220;hates politics&#8221; and the &#8220;darkness&#8221; surrounding &#8220;that world.&#8221;
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<li>CEO of Integris gathered a team of senior investment managers who have $34.22 billion in combined owned and managed assets in the West Coast —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/integris"> here&#8217;s how to invest in their private credit fund that targets 12% annual interest rate.</a></li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A New Home And A New Life</h2>
Added the former and soon-to-be-first daughter: &#8220;The main reason I am not going back to serve now is, I know the cost,&#8221; she told podcast hosts Lauryn Bosstick and Michael Bosstick. &#8220;And it&#8217;s a price that I&#8217;m not willing to make my kids bear. My primary goals were just to, like, be the best freaking mom. Every time I had to miss something, I&#8217;m like, &#8216;I will never let this happen again in the minute I leave the White House.&#8217; I feel super great about this decision.&#8221;
Helping her decide to stay put was undoubtedly her $24 million megamansion on Miami&#8217;s Indian Creek Island. She and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42645558/jared-kushner-distances-himself-from-father-in-laws-political-influence-in-the-event-that-trump-was-elected-they-should-not-expect-anything-from-me">Jared </a>purchased the six-bedroom, 8.5-bathroom compound in April 2021. The property has a private boat dock and striking views of Biscayne Bay.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Kushners Exploded Their Wealth By Divesting Debt-Ridden Glamor Properties</h2>
Although Jared Kushner temporarily left the family business to serve as an advisor to Trump&#8217;s White House in 2016, the Kushners&#8217; real estate empire has been thriving, growing the family&#8217;s wealth from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/11/41898236/the-kushners-real-estate-empire-now-surpasses-trumps-heres-how-it-grew-from-1-8-billion-to-7-1-billion-since-2016">$1.8 billion in 2016 to $7.1 billion in 2024</a>. So how did they do it?
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>
The Kushners – Charles Kushner, the head of the family and his wife Seryl, own 20% of the real estate firm, with the rest split among their four children: Jared, Nicole, Josh and Dara – made some astute business moves with their portfolio. In 2018, one of their main holdings, 666 Fifth Avenue, was mired in debt. They sold that property, alleviating themselves of debt and stepping away from riskier New York-based investments. Instead, they diversified, buying apartment complexes in New Jersey, Miami and other parts of the South, swelling their portfolio to &#8220;over 27,000 units in 15 states,&#8221; according to a statement by CEO Laurent Morali to Forbes.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Seizing The Need For Affordable Housing</h2>
The Kushners hitched their business wagon to a sorely needed commodity: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42804597/housing-affordability-crisis-prices-wont-fall-without-a-40-drop-or-a-70-wage-boost">affordable housing,</a> focusing on areas of the country with booming populations, such as the Sunbelt. While their portfolio might not contain the glamorous New York properties it once did, these days, it comprises solidly performing apartment buildings that produce substantial cash flow. The Kushner family is now worth an estimated $7.1 billion.&nbsp;
Trending: 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-y2"> you can become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a>
Jared&#8217;s net worth has soared thanks to his controversial, Saudi-backed private equity firm Affinity Partners, which he set up in the Miami suburb of Sunny Isles Beach in January 2021, the same month his father-in-law left the White House and settled at Mar-a-Lago. According to Forbes,
&#8220;Jared Kushner has raised $2 billion from Saudi Arabia&#8217;s $925 billion sovereign wealth fund and more than $400 million in investments from wealth funds in Qatar and Abu Dhabi. Roughly $600 million in additional funds came from an unnamed investor and Taiwanese billionaire Terry Gou, whose Foxconn makes the majority of the world&#8217;s iPhones.&#8221;
Despite this, Forbes notes that Jared's brother Josh is the wealthiest, thanks to his successful investments in tech startups like Instagram and OpenAI.
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<li>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></li>
<li>Commercial real estate has historically outperformed the stock market, and<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=stockmarket-yahoo"> this platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate with as little as $5,000 offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a></li>
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Real Estate

Ivanka Trump And Jared Kushner Won't Trade Their $24 Million Miami Mansion For The White House. Here's How They Made Their Money

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has commenced after a slight delay with the release of three Israeli hostages by Hamas.
What Happened: The ceasefire was scheduled to start early Sunday morning but was postponed as Israeli Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu&nbsp;alleged that Hamas had not delivered on its commitment to reveal the identities of the hostages set for release. 
Despite this, three hostages were freed&nbsp;from Gaza on the first&nbsp;day of the ceasefire, after enduring 471 days in captivity.
Israeli forces verified that the hostages had entered Israel, with the military circulating footage of the freed hostages crossing into Israeli territory, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-ceasefire-hostages-01-19-2025-437f7f1bf49c9d2936718cf78bdf272c">reports</a> the Associated Press.
Simultaneously, ambulances and trucks loaded with humanitarian aid were stationed at the Egyptian border, prepared to enter the Gaza Strip. An Israeli airstrike claimed at least eight lives&nbsp;in the Gaza Strip following&nbsp;the delay in the ceasefire.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36443957/israeli-military-initiates-partial-gaza-withdrawal-amid-economic-challenges">Israeli Military Initiates Partial Gaza Withdrawal Amid Economic Challenges</a>
Despite the delay and the airstrike, Gaza saw celebrations of the ceasefire.&nbsp;A Red Cross convoy was&nbsp;spotted in the Gaza Strip, presumably en route to collect&nbsp;the first Israeli hostages in&nbsp;the territory.
However, the ceasefire was not without its share of devastation. Aerial footage revealed the damage inflicted on&nbsp;the city of Khan Younis&nbsp;in the Gaza Strip due to the 15-month-long battle between Israel and Hamas.
As per the ceasefire agreement, three female hostages were to be released on the first day, with&nbsp;an additional four female hostages&nbsp;set to be freed&nbsp;on the seventh day of&nbsp;the agreement.
Why It Matters: The ceasefire and the release of hostages mark a significant step towards peace after a prolonged period of conflict. The release of hostages, in particular, is a critical aspect of the agreement, demonstrating both sides&#8217; commitment to the ceasefire. 
However, the devastation caused by the 15-month war underscores the long road to recovery that lies ahead for both Israel and Gaza. 
The humanitarian aid waiting at the Egyptian border highlights the immediate needs of the people affected by the conflict.
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Global

Three Hostages Cross Into Israeli Territory After 471 Days as Ceasefire Begins

TikTok came back online in the U.S. shortly after 12:00 p.m. ET, two hours after President-elect Donald Trump said on social media that he will sign an executive order Monday postponing enforcement of the new law requiring the sale of the Chinese-owned platform.
What Happened: As <a href="https://www.axios.com/2025/01/19/trump-tiktok-ban-delay-executive-order">reported</a> by Axios, Trump, who was once at the forefront of the campaign to ban TikTok, is now championing its survival. Trump wrote on Truth Social, &#8220;I will issue an executive order on Monday to extend the period of time before the law&#8217;s prohibitions take effect, so that we can make a deal to protect our national security.&#8221;
US users of the popular video app began finding that access had been restored shortly after noon on the East Coast.
Trump&#8217;s post indicated that the order would absolve any company that assisted in keeping TikTok operational prior to his order from any liability. He voiced his aspiration for the US to secure a &#8220;50% ownership position&#8221; in a joint venture to rescue TikTok. &#8220;By doing this, we save TikTok, keep it in good hands and allow it to [stay] up.&#8221;
However, the specifics of Trump&#8217;s plan, including whether he intends for the US government or a US company to hold this 50% stake, and how he aims to circumvent the law, remain ambiguous, as an executive order cannot supersede it.
The law, signed by President Joe Biden in April, mandated TikTok&#8217;s parent company, ByteDance, to sell the app to an approved buyer by January 19 to evade a ban. The law does allow for the president to initiate a 90-day extension, but only if substantial progress towards divestiture is made and binding legal agreements are in place to facilitate a deal.
Why It Matters: Trump&#8217;s unexpected move to delay the TikTok ban and his proposition for a US stake in the app marks a significant shift in his stance.

TikTok Back Online In US After Trump Vows Monday Executive Order

Zoox, Inc., a robotaxi company owned by Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), plans to launch robotaxi service in<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42432683/teslas-autopilot-hardware-director-zheng-gao-leaves-ev-giant-to-join-amazons-zoox"> Las Vegas in 2025.&nbsp;</a>
The Details: Zoox plans to offer its robotaxi service "quite soon," Zoox's co-founder and chief technology officer Jesse Levinson<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/01/17/amazon-zoox-plans-commercial-expansion.html"> told</a> CNBC. Levinson said Zoox plans to launch an "Early Rider Program" in Las Vegas in the next few months and open its autonomous vehicle ride-hailing service to the general public later this year.&nbsp;
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/01/43041254/unitedhealth-ceo-highlights-hospitals-doctors-pharmas-role-in-soaring-health-care-costs">UnitedHealth CEO Highlights Hospitals, Doctors, Pharma&#8217;s Role In Soaring Health Care Costs</a>&nbsp;
"I don't want to imply that it'll be a commercially meaningful business this year … but it's going to be useful in terms of customers will be able to get value out of it and actually use it to go places. We're excited for that," Levinson said.&nbsp;
"We've taken a pretty conservative and steady approach to scaling and rolling out, just because of the safety-critical nature," he added.&nbsp;
The company was founded in 2014 and acquired by Amazon in 2020 for more than $1.2 billion. Zoox's vehicles have been designed as driver-less from the start and have no steering wheel, pedals or driver's seat. The vehicles are symmetrical and bidirectional and can seat up to four passengers.&nbsp;
Zoox has been testing its driver-less vehicles in Las Vegas since 2023 and began testing in San Francisco last November. Zoox has pegged San Francisco as its next expansion and Levinson said the company also has plans to expand to Miami and Austin, Texas.&nbsp;&nbsp;
"Hopefully by the end of this decade, if you're in most of the major cities in the U.S., this will be your favorite way to get around," Levinson said.
Read Next:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/01/42979220/biden-announces-more-student-loan-forgiveness-bringing-debt-relief-to-nearly-5-million-borrowers">Biden Announces More Student Loan Forgiveness, Bringing Debt Relief To Nearly 5 Million Borrowers</a></li>
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Image: Courtesy of Zoox, Inc.

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