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HCM II Acquisition Corp

Many people will tell you to invest money if you want to build a nest egg and retire early. Putting your money to work in the stock market can allow it to multiply much faster than the cash in your savings account.
However, the stock market can also feel overwhelming when you are getting started. That's why a 30-year-old who's ready to invest $5,000 per month turned to the Investing subreddit for some advice. He wanted to know <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/investing/comments/1lnwt8g/what_would_you_do_if_you_had_5000_per_month_to/">the best place to put money</a> and was eager to hear everyone's thoughts.
"[I'm] finally in a place where I can steadily invest," he stated.
Redditors shared their suggestions in the comments. These were some of the top responses.
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<li>Invest early in CancerVax's breakthrough tech aiming to disrupt a $231B market. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-company-may-have-found-a-way-to-treat-cancer-by-tricking-the-bodys-immune-system-and-early-studies-show-some-promise-find-out-how-you-can-invest-in-the-future-of-cancer-treatment">Back a bold new approach to cancer treatment with high-growth potential.</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The S&amp;P 500 Is A Good Starting Point</h2>
Most Redditors recommended ETFs that tracked the S&amp;P 500. This benchmark holds 500 of the largest and most profitable U.S. corporations. The index periodically adds and removes stocks from its holdings to trim the laggards and focus on promising stocks that fulfill the S&amp;P 500's requirements.
The index gives investors broad exposure to numerous industries. Tech stocks make up the highest percentage of the fund's total assets, with the Magnificent Seven stocks playing a key part in the S&amp;P 500's overall performance.
You don't have to know much about investing to get started with the S&amp;P 500. If the economy continues to grow, the S&amp;P 500 will continue to grow with it. You don't have to risk it all with a single stock pick or monitor a bunch of holdings when an ETF that follows the S&amp;P 500's performance can work for most people.
Trending: Invest early in CancerVax's breakthrough tech aiming to disrupt a $231B market. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-company-may-have-found-a-way-to-treat-cancer-by-tricking-the-bodys-immune-system-and-early-studies-show-some-promise-find-out-how-you-can-invest-in-the-future-of-cancer-treatment">Back a bold new approach to cancer treatment with high-growth potential.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Nasdaq-100 Is Poised To Benefit From Artificial Intelligence</h2>
Redditors also recommended ETFs that follow the Nasdaq-100 due to its tech-heavy concentration. Tech stocks may produce outsized gains in the years ahead due to artificial intelligence. Although investors have heard about this technology for years, it's still in the early innings.
Even without artificial intelligence, the Nasdaq-100 and other tech-heavy benchmarks have outperformed the S&amp;P 500 over the past few years. For instance, the Nasdaq-100 is up by roughly 118% over the past five years, while the S&amp;P 500 has only gained 97% during the same stretch.
The Nasdaq-100 also outpaces the S&amp;P 500 year-to-date and over the past year. When the stock market rallies, funds that track the Nasdaq-100 tend to grow faster than funds that track the S&amp;P 500.
See Also: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Focus On Low-Cost ETFs</h2>
While the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq-100 are two popular benchmarks for ETF investors, Redditors emphasized the importance of investing in low-cost ETFs. While each investor has a different definition of a low-cost ETF, you'll be OK if you have an ETF with an expense ratio below 0.20%.&nbsp;
You'll get the lowest expense ratios if you invest in passively managed ETFs. These funds follow a predetermined benchmark instead of doing anything fancy like selling covered calls to increase the yield. You can find some passively-managed ETFs with expense ratios below 0.10%.
The expense ratio indicates how much money you must pay the fund manager to keep your money in the ETF. This expense happens automatically within the fund, so you'll never see the money directly leave your account. If you have $10,000 in a fund with a 0.10% expense ratio, you only have to pay a reasonable $10 to keep your money in the fund each year. However, if that same fund had a 1% expense ratio, you would have to pay $100 per year for that fund.
Investors are willing to pay extra for funds that significantly outperform the market, but most actively-managed funds don't hold up to the S&amp;P 500. It's better to invest in low-cost ETFs than it is to try your luck with an actively-managed ETF with a high expense ratio.
Read Next: GoSun's Breakthrough Rooftop EV Charger Already Has 2,000+ Units Reserved — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/meet-the-company-seeking-to-give-americans-energy-independence-and-learn-how-you-can-become-an-early-investor">Become an Investor in This $41.3M Clean Energy Brand Today</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

A 30-Year-Old Asks Where's The Best Place To Invest $5,000 Per Month: 'Finally In A Place Where I Can Steadily Invest'

India has reportedly notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its intention to impose retaliatory tariffs against the United States, following Washington&#8217;s decision to enforce a 25% import duty on foreign-made <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46263813/trump-to-send-take-it-or-leave-it-tariff-letters-to-12-countries-on-monday-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">automobiles and auto components</a>.
According to the notification, the Indian government estimates that the new U.S. tariff would impact approximately $2.89 billion worth of Indian exports, reports Reuters.
In response, New Delhi plans to implement countermeasures equivalent to the projected $725 million in duties collected by the U.S.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46263399/trump-says-us-will-raise-tariffs-to-up-to-70-as-july-9-deadline-looms" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Says US Will Raise Tariffs To Up To 70% As July 9 Deadline Looms</a>
Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-04/india-plans-retaliatory-duties-on-us-goods-in-hardening-stance?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">quoted</a> Piyush Goyal, India&#8217;s trade minister, &#8220;Free trade agreements are only possible when it&#8217;s win-win for both nations.&#8221; India is negotiating on its own terms and won&#8217;t be driven by external deadlines, the minister said.
Though India has yet to detail the specific goods or rates it will target with these retaliatory measures, the move comes at a critical moment. Both countries are racing to conclude a bilateral trade agreement before a self-imposed July 9 deadline set by President Donald Trump.
Trump has threatened a sweeping 26% tariff on all Indian imports should the negotiations fail.
New Delhi has expressed willingness to lower some tariffs to ease trade tensions.
However, India continues to resist U.S. pressure to open its agricultural and dairy sectors—longstanding points of contention in previous trade discussions, Reuters adds.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46264224/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-72" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga&#8217;s &#8216;Stock Whisper&#8217; Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don&#8217;t Talk About Yet</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock/Mc_Cloud

Equities

News

Politics

Markets

General

India Hits Back At US, Plans Retaliatory Tariffs at WTO

Henrik Werdelin, co-founder of BarkBox and longtime startup advisor, has launched a new venture named Audos, which recently raised $11.5 million in seed funding led by True Ventures. Other investors include Offline Ventures, Bungalow Capital, and notable angel investors Niklas Zennström and Mario Schlosser,<a href="https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/26/this-ai-powered-startup-studio-plans-to-launch-100000-companies-a-year-really/"> TechCrunch</a> reports.
Based in New York, Audos offers AI tools and startup-building support to everyday people who want to launch <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/opinion/25/04/44813789/adapt-or-disappear-how-ai-is-leveling-the-playing-field-for-small-businesses-in-2025">small businesses</a> without any technical background. Unlike accelerators or traditional venture models, TechCrunch says that Audos charges a 15% perpetual revenue share instead of taking equity from founders.
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</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From BarkBox to AI Business Builders: How Audos Plans to Create a Million-Dollar Movement</h2>
Werdelin, who previously built startup studio Prehype, told TechCrunch that Audos combines years of startup-building expertise into an accessible platform anyone can use to launch a digital product.
"What we're trying to do is to figure out how you make a million companies that do a million dollars [in annual revenue]," Werdelin said. That goal, if realized, would create what he calls a trillion-dollar turnover business, a term that sets a new benchmark for bottom-up innovation.
The company uses social media platforms like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/05/45510687/instagram-is-offering-creators-up-to-20000-to-bring-new-users-to-the-mark-zuckerberg-led-platform-heres-the-nitty-gritty">Instagram</a> and Facebook to reach potential founders and identify whether their business ideas can generate customers at a sustainable cost. According to TechCrunch, Audos's AI agent interacts with users directly, helping them clarify their offer and go to market quickly using natural language inputs.
Trending: Named a TIME Best Invention and Backed by 5,000+ Users, Kara's Air-to-Water Pod Cuts Plastic and Costs — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/americans-spend-1000-per-year-on-plastic-water-bottles-kara-pod-gives-you-clean-drinking-water-by-pulling-moisture-from-the-air">And You Can Invest At Just $6.37/Share</a>
So far, Audos has supported the launch of what Werdelin calls "low hundreds" of businesses in its beta phase, TechCrunch reports. These include ventures like a virtual golf swing coach, an AI nutritionist, a mechanic offering quote evaluations, and even an "after-death logistics" consultant.
Each founder received up to $25,000 in funding, access to Audos's proprietary tools, and support in distributing their offer through paid social ads. According to TechCrunch, Werdelin refers to these micro-businesses as "donkeycorns," signaling modest yet profitable ventures that aim to support personal freedom rather than billion-dollar exits.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Permanent 15% Cut May Spark Questions About Long-Term Cost for Founders</h2>
According to TechCrunch, Audos's model may spark discussion over the long-term cost of a 15% revenue share, which continues indefinitely like Apple's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)&nbsp; App Store platform fee. While some entrepreneurs may welcome the no-equity route, others could see the permanent cut as a costly tradeoff over time.
See Also: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wiseradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation.&nbsp;</a>
Werdelin acknowledged that the market is rapidly filling with similar AI tools, saying, "the world is full of these tools" and they are "getting better rapidly," TechCrunch says. Audos distinguishes itself by helping non-technical users go to market quickly using natural language prompts and social media targeting.
True Ventures partner Tony Conrad expressed confidence in Audos, citing its potential to support thousands who want to start small, independent businesses with real revenue potential. "There are just lots and lots of people" who need this opportunity, Conrad told TechCrunch.
Audos currently operates with just five employees but aims to expand its impact exponentially without building a large internal team. Werdelin believes the next wave of entrepreneurship should be built by people previously left out of the ecosystem. "We believe that the world is better with more entrepreneurship," he told TechCrunch, pointing to mom-and-pop shops as his inspiration rather than venture-backed unicorns.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Image: Shutterstock

AAPL

This $11.5M Startup Backed By Niklas Zennström Wants To Help You Launch A Million-Dollar AI Business From Your Sofa

Abbe Lowell, a prominent lawyer who has represented members of President Donald Trump&#8216;s family, expressed serious concerns about the potential harm that the current administration could cause to the country&#8217;s institutions.
What Happened: Lowell, who defended&nbsp;Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump&nbsp;during Robert Mueller&#8216;s Russian investigation, has voiced concerns about the pressure the White House is putting on the nation&#8217;s institutions. 
Lowell fears that these institutions may not be able to withstand the current strain. Speaking with <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/54e4cb31-44c4-45b1-ae0d-ce67d5c8c736">the</a> Financial Times, Lowell said, &#8220;I have never been as concerned as to whether our system can withstand the pressure it is being put to."
He also said that the White House is "pushing the tree to the point that it could break," noting that during Trump's first term, critics of the president said democracy was "tested but didn't break." 
Lowell, who has also represented prominent Democrats like Bill Clinton and Hunter Biden, was hired by Kushner and Ivanka in 2017 as the Russia investigation escalated. He is now warning that Trump&#8217;s actions in his second term could break the constitutional &#8220;wall&#8221; that separates the courts from executive power.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/36923522/donald-trump-is-spending-millions-on-his-legal-defense-here-are-the-lawyers-who-are-cashing-in-the-m">Donald Trump Is Spending Millions On His Legal Defense: Here Are The Lawyers Who Are Cashing In The Most</a>
"The crack you put in the wall today becomes the gash tomorrow," Lowell told Congress back in 1998. Reflecting on that now, he told the outlet, "That wasn't a bad prophecy—the structure is more than cracked, though not yet crumbled."
Lowell has established Lowell &amp; Associates to fight against what he calls government &#8220;over-reach,&#8221; and has already attracted several defectors from other law firms. 
His clients&nbsp;include New York Attorney General&nbsp;Letitia James and&nbsp;former DHS official Miles Taylor,&nbsp;who are both hoping that Lowell&#8217;s aggressive approach can counter a series of executive orders targeting various institutions.
Why It Matters: Lowell&#8217;s concerns highlight the increasing tension between the executive branch and the nation&#8217;s institutions. 
His strategy of building&nbsp;cases on First Amendment grounds, rather than presidential authority, could be crucial in challenging the administration, especially given a Supreme Court that &#8220;believes&nbsp;in an executive branch with&nbsp;broad power.&#8221;
Lowell&#8217;s new firm, Lowell &amp; Associates, could play a significant role in this battle, especially with high-profile clients like Letitia James and Miles Taylor on board. 
As the pressure on the nation&#8217;s institutions continues to mount, the legal strategies employed by Lowell and his team could have far-reaching implications for the balance of power in the U.S.
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Image: Shutterstock

Ex-Trump Family Attorney Raises Alarms Over Trump's Actions as President: 'I Have Never Been As Concerned'

The person you marry is the most important decision you make. You have to weigh a lot of factors, such as your potential spouse's character, their parents, and how you feel when you're together.&nbsp;
However, financial guru Vincent Chan says you should also <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@vincentchanco/video/7519855839453203745?lang=en">consider money when choosing a spouse</a>. Surprisingly, Chan isn't talking about salaries. It's possible for a hard-working spouse to boost their income over time, and they may get extra motivation upon being married and when they approach parenthood.&nbsp;
Chan is talking about something more important, which is the spouse's relationship with money. Here's why it's so important to pay attention to how your spouse treats their finances.
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</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Your Spouse Significantly Affects Your Wallet</h2>
Your spouse's money habits will affect your wallet more than anything else. Chan mentions that studies have proven this claim. He proceeds to explain that a financially responsible individual can get into a lot of financial challenges if they marry a spouse with bad credit while spending money freely.
Some people learn from their mistakes, but it's good to see a potential spouse learn from their bad money habits before committing to a marriage. A lack of money or feeling like you don't earn enough can lead to significant stress and self-worth issues.&nbsp;
Your expenses will also go up when you start a family with your spouse. The kids will pick up money habits from you and your spouse, but if your spouse spends heavily and encourages your kids to do the same, it can create an uphill battle.
Trending: Tired of Grid Failures and Charging Deserts? This Startup Has a Solar Fix and $25M+ in Sales — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/meet-the-company-seeking-to-give-americans-energy-independence-and-learn-how-you-can-become-an-early-investor">Now Raising at $3/Share</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Money Can Result In A Lot Of Stress And Fights</h2>
Most people stress about not having enough money, even if they are not married. Those stresses can multiply when you have new commitments, such as a spouse, children, cars, and a mortgage.
Stress around money can lead to disagreements about how to spend the money that you both accumulate, and that can result in fights. Chan mentions that money stress and the fights that arise from those anxieties are the second most common reason for divorce.&nbsp;
Making sure your potential spouse has good money habits and agrees with core values that you hold about money can lead to a smoother marriage. Of course, some marriages end in divorce even if both spouses are frugal, but being on the same page with your finances significantly reduces the risk of getting a divorce.
See Also: Invest early in CancerVax's breakthrough tech aiming to disrupt a $231B market. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-company-may-have-found-a-way-to-treat-cancer-by-tricking-the-bodys-immune-system-and-early-studies-show-some-promise-find-out-how-you-can-invest-in-the-future-of-cancer-treatment">Back a bold new approach to cancer treatment with high-growth potential.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ask Your Potential Partner About Their Financial Goals&nbsp;</h2>
Before you marry someone, it's good to have conversations about money and assess their financial goals. Asking about long-term financial goals and what your potential spouse is doing to achieve those goals can help you gauge if this person is the right one for you.
It's good to hear someone say that they want to save and invest money for a meaningful goal, like a down payment, saving up for retirement, or something similar. Then, let the potential spouse know about your financial goals. It's only fair since you asked the question, and you can make your potential partner feel more comfortable with you.
While it's good to know how your potential partner treats money, it's just as important to communicate your money values. That way, your potential partner knows what they're getting if they marry you. Furthermore, displaying good money habits can make you more attractive in a relationship. If the potential partner runs off because you want to live a frugal lifestyle and avoid overspending, it may be better to part ways instead of getting married.
Read Next: The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?
Image: Shutterstock

'Consider Money When Choosing Your Life Partner' – Vincent Chan's Controversial Advice Isn't About Your Spouse's Salary

It takes multiple decades for most people to save enough money for their retirement. You have to grow your income, regularly invest your money, and capitalize on opportunities to minimize your tax bill.
A 57-year-old is <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/personalfinance/comments/1lni84w/just_turned_57_thinking_about_retiring_at_60_i/">approaching the finish line</a> and wants enough flexibility to retire at 60. The Redditor shared details about their net worth and laid out how much they want to spend.
"I'd like to plan for annual expenses of $80,000 per year," the Redditor said.
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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wiseradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation. </a></li>
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</ul>
Is the Redditor being realistic with their goals, or is retiring at 60 a bit of a stretch? Redditors chimed in with their thoughts in the comments.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Redditor's Finances</h2>
The Redditor is unmarried with no kids and has a $1.9 million net worth. Almost $1 million is in retirement accounts, while another $652,000 is in a brokerage account. All of the retirement funds are accessible penalty-free by the time the Redditor wants to retire.
The financial picture gets even better when the Redditor mentions they have a $750,000 home that is fully paid off and a car that has also been paid off. The Redditor currently earns $133,000 per year at a job they enjoy and have a reasonable commute.&nbsp;
The Redditor didn't mention their current bills, but with the house and car paid off, the bills are likely low. That was an insight from the top commenter. Another mentioned they would be surprised if the Redditor had any real debt with no mortgage or car payments.
Trending: GoSun's Breakthrough Rooftop EV Charger Already Has 2,000+ Units Reserved — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/meet-the-company-seeking-to-give-americans-energy-independence-and-learn-how-you-can-become-an-early-investor">Become an Investor in This $41.3M Clean Energy Brand Today</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Finances Aren't The Issue</h2>
Some people said the Redditor could retire tomorrow, and the prospects will look even better if the Redditor works until turning 60. That's three additional years of saving money in tax-advantaged accounts and letting your portfolio grow before you have to start withdrawing from it.
If the Redditor follows the 4% withdrawal rule and wants to spend $80,000 per year, the individual needs a $2 million portfolio to retire safely. The Redditor is close enough to that goal and doesn't have to contend with mortgage payments anymore.
The Redditor has saved and invested enough money to have a good retirement. The stock market may experience corrections, but if the Redditor puts their capital into more conservative assets, the drops will be less than average.
See Also: Invest early in CancerVax's breakthrough tech aiming to disrupt a $231B market. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-company-may-have-found-a-way-to-treat-cancer-by-tricking-the-bodys-immune-system-and-early-studies-show-some-promise-find-out-how-you-can-invest-in-the-future-of-cancer-treatment">Back a bold new approach to cancer treatment with high-growth potential.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Retire Right Now?</h2>
Most people leave the workforce early when they despise their jobs, co-workers, or work environment. However, the Redditor mentioned that they like the job, go-workers, and organization. The commute is even a good one, according to the original poster.
If the Redditor retires at 60, the individual will have nothing to do. The Redditor is unmarried and has no kids. While retiring will give the Redditor more time to explore hobbies, fulfilling work offers a sense of purpose that you can't get from hobbies.
If the Redditor really wanted, they could consider taking an extra day off each week, but a sedentary life can get quite boring in a hurry. The Redditor seems to have a solid set-up, and it's important to consider what the Redditor will gain from retiring early that they don't have right now. When extra time turns into idle time, it can become a problem.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gbr-savings-by-age">If You're Age 35, 50, or 60: Here&#8217;s How Much You Should Have Saved Vs. Invested By Now</a>
Image: Shutterstock

A 57-Year-Old Asks If He Can Retire At 60: 'I'd Like To Plan For Annual Expenses Of $80,000 Per Year'

A new tax rule tucked into President Donald Trump&#8217;s spending bill has gamblers worried—and it could ripple across some of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports-betting" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">biggest names in the betting industry</a>.
Professional gamblers are reportedly raising concerns over a new tax measure embedded within Trump&#8217;s sweeping new tax and spending law.
The legislation includes a provision that would significantly limit how gambling losses can be deducted starting in 2026, the New York Post <a target="_blank" href="https://nypost.com/2025/07/04/business/gamblers-sound-alarm-over-1-1b-tax-hike-in-trumps-big-beautiful-bill/" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46168784/2028-election-poll-shows-vance-buttigieg-in-lead-where-trump-newsom-harris-rank-and-betting-odds" rel="noreferrer noopener">2028 Election Poll Shows Vance, Buttigieg In Lead: Where Trump, Newsom, Harris Rank — And Betting Odds</a>
According to the revised rules, only 90% of gambling losses will be deductible against winnings, a shift from the current policy that allows a full 100% offset.
The change is estimated to generate $1.1 billion in additional tax revenue.
The report notes that Zachary Zimbile, an accountant specializing in gaming taxes, said many clients have expressed deep concern over the revision. &#8220;If you add a 10% penalty, it&#8217;s going to eat into a lot of their profit,&#8221; Zimbile told the New York Post.
Professionals fear that the new framework could lead to income tax being assessed even in cases where a gambler breaks even—or ends up in the red.
Illustrative examples provided in the legislation suggest the implications could be significant.
A gambler who earns $100,000 in winnings and records an equivalent amount in losses would now face taxes on $10,000, New York Post adds. Similarly, someone with $500,000 in both winnings and losses—breaking even—would be taxed on $50,000. Even a net loss scenario, such as winning $200,000 but losing $210,000, could result in a tax bill on $11,000 in phantom income.
While professional gamblers will likely bear the brunt due to high transaction volumes, recreational bettors with frequent high-stakes activity might also find themselves affected in years with substantial swings.
The U.S. gambling market has boomed in recent years, thanks in part to digital platforms and state-level legalization.
The American Gaming Association reported that commercial gaming revenue in the U.S. hit nearly $72 billion in 2024—marking a fourth consecutive record-setting year, New York Post notes.
Platforms like Flutter Entertainment Plc (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PDYPY#OTC">PDYPY</a>), the parent of FanDuel, and DraftKings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DKNG#NASDAQ">DKNG</a>) have driven the surge in online wagering.
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Image: Shutterstock/MAYA LAB

DKNG

PDYPY

Gamblers Say Trump's New Tax Rule Could Cost Them — Even When They Lose

A new poll reveals that 40% of U.S. voters would be inclined to support a political party launched by Elon Musk.
What Happened: The survey, conducted by Quantus Insights between June 30 and July 2, found that 14% of voters would be &#8220;very likely&#8221; to back a political party initiated by Musk, while 26% said they would be &#8220;somewhat likely.&#8221;
Conversely, 38% of respondents indicated&nbsp;they were not likely to&nbsp;support Musk, and 22% were "unsure."
This development follows Musk&#8217;s claim that he would launch the &#8220;America Party&#8221; in response to President Donald Trump's "One Big, Beautiful Bill," which he labeled as "insane." This disagreement led to a public online dispute between the two last month.
The poll&nbsp;also revealed clear divides across&nbsp;party lines and demographics, with&nbsp;male Republicans appearing to be&nbsp;the most interested in a&nbsp;party launched by Musk.&nbsp;Nearly half (47 percent) of&nbsp;independent men said they were&nbsp;likely to support the America&nbsp;Party.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/06/46177116/elon-musk-calls-trumps-megabill-political-suicide-says-it-is-utterly-insane-and-destructive-will-des">Elon Musk Calls Trump&#8217;s Megabill &#8216;Political Suicide,&#8217; Says &#8216;It Is Utterly Insane and Destructive,&#8217; Will &#8216;Destroy Millions of Jobs in America&#8217;</a>
Despite the support, Quantus Insights&nbsp;noted that "skepticism remains high&nbsp;among older and Democratic voters&nbsp;but the signal is clear:&nbsp;a large slice of the&nbsp;electorate is open to something&nbsp;new, something disruptive."
The existing Libertarian Party has also reached out to Musk, <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/07/02/libertarian-chair-asks-elon-musk-to-join-them-00436172">according</a> to Politico, arguing that they already have ballot access across the U.S. Musk has yet to respond.
Why It Matters: The poll results underscore the influence of Musk, who is not only a prominent figure in the tech industry but also increasingly in the political landscape. 
The Tesla CEO&#8217;s hypothetical &#8220;America Party&#8221; has garnered significant attention, reflecting an appetite for political disruption among a sizeable portion of the electorate. However, the poll also highlights the polarizing nature of Musk&#8217;s potential political venture, with clear divides along party lines and demographics. 
The skepticism&nbsp;among older and Democratic voters&nbsp;suggests that while Musk&#8217;s hypothetical party may appeal to a certain demographic, it may face resistance from others. 
This dynamic underscores the complexities and challenges that could arise should Musk decide to venture into the political arena.
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Image: Shutterstock

TSLA

Elon Musk's Hypothetical 'America Party' Gains Support From 40% of Voters

When a listener wrote in to Suze Orman's "<a href="https://omny.fm/shows/suze-ormans-women-and-money/ask-kt-suze-anything-throwing-money-at-a-problem-does-not-always-solve-it">Women &amp; Money</a>" podcast asking whether to keep savings or pay down debt, the answer came fast — and with a dose of financial reality.&nbsp;
The listener, Gloria, believed she was earning 3.75% interest monthly on her $88,000 savings account. Orman was quick to call that out as a misunderstanding — and used it as a teachable moment.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">No, You&#8217;re Not Earning 3.75% Monthly</h2>
During the podcast, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/25/06/46147106/her-daughter-and-boyfriend-asked-to-move-in-suze-orman-told-her-she-should-say-no">Orman</a> responded bluntly: "It is impossible that you are making 3.75% monthly on your $88,000. That would mean that you are being paid 45% a year in interest."
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What Gloria likely meant, Orman explained, was that her account offered a 3.75% annual percentage yield, or APY. That's a key term when it comes to understanding how much your money is actually earning in a savings account.
APY reflects how much interest you'll earn over the course of a full year, factoring in compounding. It's not paid all at once — instead, the interest compounds monthly, quarterly, or even daily, depending on the account. The more often it compounds, the faster your money grows — but 3.75% monthly is not realistic in today's banking world.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Let's Talk About That $43K Debt</h2>
Along with the savings account, Gloria mentioned a home equity line of credit she still owed $43,000 on and that she was paying $500 a month in charges.
Orman's response was clear: "You should absolutely take $43,000 out of that savings account and do what with it? Pay off your home equity line of credit."
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Why? Because even if Gloria's account is earning 3.75% APY, it's unlikely that it's offsetting what she's losing in interest and fees on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/06/46014776/he-makes-150k-she-makes-63k-so-why-did-they-use-a-heloc-to-pay-off-his-45k-debt-suze-">HELOC</a>. A $500 monthly charge on a $43,000 balance is the equivalent of paying around 14% annually — far more than she's earning by letting that money sit in savings.
Orman emphasized that keeping debt at a high interest rate while earning a lower return on savings is a losing strategy. The money could be working much harder by reducing what she owes.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Understanding Your APY&nbsp; —&nbsp; And Why It Matters</h2>
Many consumers confuse interest rates with APY, or assume "monthly" means they're getting a better deal. But APY is what truly reflects an account's annual earning power. It&#8217;s required by law to be disclosed by banks and credit unions, so if you're unsure what your account is earning, don't guess — check your statement or ask your bank directly.
The national average APY for a savings account is currently around 0.38%, according to the <a href="https://www.fdic.gov/national-rates-and-rate-caps">Federal Deposit Insurance Corp.</a> However, top high-yield savings accounts and CDs may offer closer to 4.40% APY, depending on the provider.
Still, that's a far cry from the cost of carrying high-interest debt.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h2>
Orman's advice is rooted in a simple principle: If the interest you&#8217;re paying on debt is significantly higher than what you&#8217;re earning on savings, pay off the debt. Gloria&#8217;s case is a textbook example.
It's easy to get excited about high-yield savings, especially when they offer a low-risk way to earn more on your cash. But as Orman pointed out, knowing the difference between monthly interest and APY can keep your financial expectations — and strategy — grounded in reality.
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Image: Shutterstock

Suze Orman Bursts The Bubble On 3.75% 'Monthly' Savings Account — And Tells Listener To Pay Off $43K Debt Immediately

The U.S. Air Force has decided to terminate a project in collaboration with Elon Musk&#8216;s&nbsp;SpaceX. The project was intended&nbsp;to test hypersonic rocket cargo&nbsp;deliveries from a remote Pacific&nbsp;atoll, as reported by a military publication.
What Happened: The decision to discontinue the project was taken in light of concerns raised by experts about the potential harm to seabirds nesting on the Johnston Atoll, the proposed site for the project.
The Air Force had initially intended to conduct an environmental assessment but is now exploring alternative locations for the program, <a href="https://www.stripes.com/branches/air_force/2025-07-02/johnson-atoll-rocket-air-force-18319741.html">reports</a> Stars and Stripes. 
The planned program involved testing rocket re-entry vehicles capable of delivering&nbsp;up to 100 tons of&nbsp;cargo anywhere on Earth within&nbsp;90 minutes. 
Commercial rockets, including those produced by&nbsp;SpaceX, were to be utilized in the program, although no official announcements regarding industry partners were made.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37768437/elon-musks-spacex-is-secretly-building-a-huge-spy-satellite-network-for-the-us-government">Elon Musk&#8217;s SpaceX Is Secretly Building A Huge Spy Satellite Network For The US Government</a>
The Johnston Atoll, a U.S. territory located approximately&nbsp;800 miles southwest of Hawaii,&nbsp;is&nbsp;a National Wildlife Refuge and&nbsp;home to 14 species of&nbsp;tropical birds. 
A petition urging&nbsp;the Air Force to abandon&nbsp;its plan had collected over 3,800 signatures by Wednesday.
Why It Matters: This is not the first time SpaceX has faced backlash for its environmental impact. 
The company has previously been criticized by conservation groups, with lawsuits filed against the FAA for approving&nbsp;expanded rocket launch operations in&nbsp;South Texas without conducting additional environmental studies. 
The termination of this project underscores the ongoing tension between technological advancement and environmental conservation, a balance that companies like SpaceX will need to navigate moving forward.
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Elon Musk's SpaceX's Hypersonic Rocket Cargo Delivery Project Dropped By US Air Force

A brand's values are becoming central in consumers' shopping decisions, a new <a href="https://www.lightspeedhq.com/news/consumers-embrace-valuespending-intentionality-and-brand-values-now-central-to-purchasing-decisions/">study</a> from Lightspeed Commerce Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LSPD#NYSE">LSPD</a>) shows.&nbsp;
The survey, which looked at 2,000 shoppers across the U.S. and Canada, found that 92% of people consider themselves "somewhat intentional" with their purchases. Additionally, 45% of shoppers say that they will be considering a brand's values in future purchasing decisions. Lightspeed is calling this shift towards more mindful and value-centric shopping, "valuespending."
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While price (78%)&nbsp; and quality (67%) still remain the most critical things consumers are considering when making a purchase, an increasing number (62%) say that it&#8217;s important that the brands they are buying from align with their personal values.
"Consumers today are balancing cost with conscience," Lightspeed's founder and CEO Dax Dasilva said in the report. "It's not always about the lowest price—it's about choosing brands that reflect their values. And when those values align, loyalty can follow more easily. This new era of intentional spending—Valuespending—is reshaping retail and pushing businesses to be more transparent and authentic."
For 32% of the people Lightspeed surveyed, considering a company's values is new. The mindset shift is driven by a number of factors, the study found, including the belief that their spending has a larger impact than ever before, social media influence, and the understanding that we live in a more divided world where every dollar can be politicized.
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So, consumers are putting their personal principles into action. Of the consumers surveyed, 27% said they have made a purchasing decision based on national pride, 18% say they have purchased from a brand because that brand was somehow tied to a charitable cause, 18% have chosen a product because of a brand's sustainability practices, adn 15% have made a purchase because they agree with the CEO's political stances.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, it&#8217;s Gen Z that's leading the valuespending charge. A whopping 96% of Gen Z consumers told Lightspeed that they shop intentionally, with 66% saying it's very important to them that purchases align with their personal values.
&#8220;[Gen Z] are the trendsetters. &#8230; They&#8217;ve come into target as the consumer that everybody wants to sell to,&#8221; Dasilva told <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/06/26/gen-z-shoppers-social-conscious-responsible-price/84292163007/">USA Today</a>.&nbsp;
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Being a trendsetter doesn't come without its own pressures, however. Some 32% of Gen Z shoppers told Lightspeed that they worry about being judged for purchasing from the wrong brands.&nbsp;
&#8220;There&#8217;s that element of peer pressure that we make statements with the things we purchase or the things we wear,&#8221; Dasilva told USA Today. Valuespending may be changing the way we shop, but it&#8217;s not necessarily simplifying it.
"These insights show us that consumer expectations are evolving," Dasilva said in the Lightspeed report. "From sustainability to social impact, the brands that listen, adapt, and ‘walk the talk' can thrive in this age of Valuespending."
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Image: Shutterstock

LSPD

'Valuespending' Is Changing The Way We Shop, 62% Of Consumers Now Say They Consider A Brand's Values When Purchasing

President Donald Trump signed his massive spending and social policy bill into law during an Independence Day event at the White House on Friday. The new law will provide substantial tax relief for affluent Americans, while also implementing significant reductions to social welfare programs.
What Happened: The legislation extends the 2017 tax cuts from Trump&#8217;s initial term indefinitely, and introduces new tax benefits such as tax-free&nbsp;tips up to $25,000 and&nbsp;a &#8220;senior deduction&#8221; for individuals over 65 to evade Social Security taxes.
Nonetheless, some studies imply that the tax reductions&nbsp;for lower earners may be&nbsp;counterbalanced by new expenses&nbsp;from lost support for healthcare and food assistance.
According to a report <a href="https://thehill.com/business/personal-finance/5384586-trump-bill-tax-cuts-medicaid-snap/">by</a> The Hill, the Tax Policy Center estimates that approximately 85% of households would receive a tax cut in 2026. However, certain provisions, like&nbsp;the new deduction for seniors,&nbsp;are set to expire within&nbsp;a few years. By 2030, only about 70%&nbsp;of households would continue to&nbsp;have a tax break.
The Center also projects that nearly 60%&nbsp;of the tax benefits would&nbsp;go to those in the&nbsp;top quintile of annual incomes,&nbsp;or about $217,000 or more.&nbsp;These&nbsp;households would receive an average&nbsp;tax cut of $12,500.
However, the bill&#8217;s comprehensive&nbsp;cuts to Medicaid and nutrition&nbsp;assistance could counterbalance the&nbsp;benefits low-income Americans might see&nbsp;in tax breaks.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/06/46177116/elon-musk-calls-trumps-megabill-political-suicide-says-it-is-utterly-insane-and-destructive-will-des">Elon Musk Calls Trump&#8217;s Megabill &#8216;Political Suicide,&#8217; Says &#8216;It Is Utterly Insane and Destructive,&#8217; Will &#8216;Destroy Millions of Jobs in America&#8217;</a>
Federal Medicaid spending is estimated&nbsp;to decrease by about $1&nbsp;trillion, resulting in about 12&nbsp;million low-income Americans losing their&nbsp;health insurance by 2034, according&nbsp;to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget&nbsp;Office.
The bill also includes work&nbsp;requirements for Medicaid and for&nbsp;Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits,&nbsp;previously known as food stamps,&nbsp;which could disenroll millions from&nbsp;both programs.
Why It Matters: The bill is a significant piece of legislation that could have far-reaching implications for the American economy and society.
While it promises substantial tax breaks for the wealthy, it also proposes major cuts to social welfare programs that could impact millions of low-income Americans. 
The potential benefits and drawbacks of this bill will likely be a major topic of discussion and debate in the coming weeks and months.
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Trump's Megabill Brings Tax Breaks for the Wealthy and Welfare Cuts — Here's How Your Income Taxes Could Change

Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) Chief Executive Elon Musk's controversial stint at President Donald Trump's Department of Government Efficiency ended in May, but debate persists over what he gained or lost, and how it affected his businesses.
Elon Musk's father, Errol Musk, recently told <a href="https://x.com/SkyNews/status/1927840326456168919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1927840326456168919%7Ctwgr%5E8e719785e1bf5a1f15ae066df5103fbf614ab132%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&amp;ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Ffuturism.com%2Ferrol-musk-elon-politics">Sky News</a> that he warned his son against taking part in politics, given both his nature and the realities of political life.
"He's a very straightforward person," the senior Musk said. "He's not terribly complicated at all. He's not a very good conversationalist. He's not a very good politician at all."
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Errol, who often publicly criticizes his billionaire son, said that politics has no boundaries and called it the "deepest pool of human endeavor."
"As I explained to him as well, that politics is a swimming pool that hasn&#8217;t got a bottom, it hasn&#8217;t got sides. No matter which way you go, you are never gonna get to the edge," Errol added.
The two Musks have a strained relationship. In 2017, during an <a href="https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-features/elon-musk-the-architect-of-tomorrow-120850/">interview</a> with Rolling Stone, Elon called his father a &#8216;terrible human being.&#8217;
"My dad will have a carefully thought-out plan of evil. He will plan evil," he said at the time.&nbsp;
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Earlier this year, Errol <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/21/style/elon-musk-father-errol-comments.html#:~:text=On%20a%20recent%20episode%20of,five%20sons%20all%20brought%20up.">criticized</a> Elon's parenting during the "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gagYfbwVXFU">Wide Awake</a>" podcast, saying he "hasn't been a good dad."
"He hasn't got the gift of the gab and apart from that, he likes the idea that everyone who works for him must be an A student," Errol said. "And of course, when you work in government you can&#8217;t have that."
Tesla shares are down 14% so far this year as the company's EV deliveries continue to plunge globally. In May, Tesla sales <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/teslas-german-car-sales-continue-decline-may-2025-06-04/">fell</a> for the fifth consecutive month in Britain, Germany, and Italy.
Wells Fargo recently <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/06/10/wells-fargo-says-tesla-shares-to-drop-60percent-as-sales-slump-.html?taid=68484d55c5f45e0001b957d3&amp;utm_campaign=trueanthem&amp;utm_content=main&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter">said</a> in a note that Tesla shares could drop 60% amid weak deliveries and rising competition. Analyst Colin Langan said Tesla's global deliveries in May fell 23% year over year and added that the company's potential tailwinds, such as autonomous driving, are not likely to offset its delivery declines.
"Most investor attention is directed at the June 12th Austin Robotaxi deployment. We doubt the likely limited debut will be enough to overshadow the poor fundamentals," Langan said. He has a $120 price target for the stock.
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Elon Musk's Father Says He Warned His Son Against Going Into Politics – 'He's Not a Very Good Politician At All'

Elon Musk&nbsp;has once again demanded the release of the unredacted Jeffrey Epstein files. This comes in the wake of his allegations against President Donald Trump.
What Happened: Musk&#8217;s renewed call for transparency comes in the aftermath of his accusations that Trump&#8217;s name features in the Epstein files. His demand was a response to MAGA activist Scott Presler&#8216;s call on X to &#8220;Release the unredacted Epstein files.&#8221;
Musk&#8217;s demand was made just hours before the House was set to vote on Trump&#8217;s tax bill earlier this week. Musk has expressed concerns that the bill could lead to &#8220;debt slavery&#8221; in the U.S. This follows a disagreement between Musk and Trump last month over the president&#8217;s &#8220;pork-filled&#8221; signature megabill.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Yes
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1940723866336387438?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Despite facing criticism for releasing Epstein files that contained already public information, Musk maintains that the &#8220;real reason&#8221; the documents remain sealed is due to Trump&#8217;s alleged involvement in Epstein&#8217;s crimes.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43077007/jeffrey-epstein-allegedly-offered-plea-deal-in-exchange-for-trump-info-if-i-can-give-them-something-on-trump-to-get-him-impeached">Jeffrey Epstein Allegedly Offered Plea Deal In Exchange For Trump Info: &#8216;If I Can Give Them Something On Trump To Get Him Impeached&#8217;</a>
Trump, who was friends with Epstein for decades before their relationship soured, has consistently denied any knowledge of Epstein&#8217;s abuse. Despite this, Musk continues to assert that &#8220;The truth will come out.&#8221;
Earlier this week, Trump reignited&nbsp;his feud with Musk, threatening&nbsp;to involve&nbsp;the Department of Government Efficiency&nbsp;against him and suggesting Musk may have to &#8220;go back to South Africa.&#8221;
Why It Matters: Musk&#8217;s renewed call&nbsp;for the release of the&nbsp;Epstein files underscores his commitment to transparency and accountability. 
His allegations against Trump, if proven, could have significant political implications. 
Furthermore, the ongoing feud between Musk and Trump could potentially impact future legislation and regulatory decisions affecting Musk&#8217;s businesses, including Tesla Inc.
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Image: Shutterstock/Copyright Lawrey

Elon Musk Renews Demand for Jeffrey Epstein Files Release, Weeks After Alleging Trump Is Named in Them

President Donald Trump reportedly allowed Iranian leaders to launch a retaliatory attack on a U.S. military base in Qatar in response to the U.S.&nbsp;bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities.
What Happened:&nbsp;Trump disclosed this information during&nbsp;a rally in Des Moines,&nbsp;Iowa. He shared that Iran had communicated their plan to &#8220;take 14 shots&#8221; at a U.S. base as a counteraction to the U.S.&#8217;s bombing of their nuclear facilities. Trump&#8217;s response was, &#8220;Go ahead, I understand.&#8221;
According to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbDzyzYnBVk">a</a> Fox News report, Trump said, "You know, they called me to tell me they have to take a shot at us. This was Iran, very respectful. That means they respect us. Because we dropped 14 bombs, they said we'd like to take 14 shots at you. I said, ‘Go ahead, I understand.'&#8221;
Trump said that the Iranians had detailed the location of the attack, the military base in Qatar, and even requested a suitable time for the attack. The base was subsequently evacuated, leaving only four gunners who successfully intercepted all 14 missiles.
&#8220;They said where they'd do it. I said good. We emptied out the fort, it was a beautiful military base in Qatar, who treated us really fantastically well, and they said, &#8216;Sir, 1 o'clock okay?&#8217; I said it was fine, we could make it later, and we had nobody but four gunners. We had four. They call them gunners and they shoot the Patriots, they shoot the missiles up, it's hard to believe,&#8221; Trump further added.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45940864/trump-threatens-iran-with-unprecedented-us-military-action-in-case-of-attack-if-we-are-attacked-in-any-way-us-armed-forces-will-come-down-on-you-at-levels-never-seen-before">Trump Threatens Iran With Unprecedented US Military Action In Case Of Attack: &#8216;If We Are Attacked In Any Way, US Armed Forces Will Come Down On You At Levels Never Seen Before&#8217;</a>
After the Iranian missile attack, Trump expressed gratitude for Iran&#8217;s &#8220;very weak response&#8221; and reported no American casualties or significant damage. He thanked Iran for the early notice, which he claimed prevented any loss of life or injuries.
In a Truth Social <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114734424268466099">post</a>, Trump said, "I want to thank Iran for giving us early notice, which made it possible for no lives to be lost, and nobody to be injured. Perhaps Iran can now proceed to Peace and Harmony in the Region, and I will enthusiastically encourage Israel to do the same. Thank you for your attention to this matter!&#8221;
Trump&#8217;s admission received some criticism. Josh Marshall of Talking Points Memo <a href="https://talkingpointsmemo.com/morning-memo/trump-says-he-gave-iran-permission-to-bomb-u-s-base-in-qatar-andwell-mostly-crickets">wrote</a>, &#8220;Wouldn't that represent the most shocking dereliction of duty one could imagine for the commander-in-chief?&#8221; He added, &#8220;What would have happened if a Democratic president, particularly one named Joe Biden, had said he let a foreign adversary fire on an American military installation?&#8221;
Why It Matters: This incident marks a significant shift in the U.S.-Iran relations, as it shows a level of communication and understanding between the two nations that has been absent in recent years. 
Trump&#8217;s decision to allow the retaliation, and his subsequent appreciation of Iran&#8217;s &#8220;weak response&#8221;, could be seen as an attempt to de-escalate tensions in the region. 
His call for peace and harmony, and urging Israel to follow suit, further underscores this intent.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock

Trump Reportedly Told Iran It Was OK To Strike Back After US Attack: 'I Said, 'Go Ahead, I Understand''

A new wave of AI-driven consumer <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45772125/90-of-startups-fail-heres-whats-going-wrong">startups</a> is gaining traction among investors in 2025, with many of these platforms blending artificial intelligence with real-world interaction to reshape how people connect, discover, and build communities, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/consumer-startups-watch-social-dating-ai-according-to-vc-investors-2025-6">Business Insider</a> reports.
Vanessa Larco, former New Enterprise Associates partner and founder of the venture firm Premise, told Business Insider, "We're on the brink of another big consumer wave" as interest returns to early-stage consumer tech startups.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Meet the Game-Changing Startups Using AI to Reshape Human Connection</h2>
The following 12 companies were identified by venture capitalists as emerging leaders across dating, social networking, faith, fashion, and in-person experience, with several being backed by top firms including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45618210/y-combinator-startup-firecrawl-offers-1m-for-ai-agents-that-blog-code-and-do-customer-support-without-sleeping">Y Combinator</a> and Thrive Capital.
1. Sitch
This AI matchmaking app uses a chatbot trained by human matchmakers to suggest five setups per week, with tiers from $90 to $160, Business Insider reports. Larco, through Premise, has invested in the company as an angel investor.
2. Margins
Margins is a social reading platform designed for the BookTok generation. Since launching in December, the app has grown to approximately 130,000 users. According to Business Insider, the startup has drawn interest from investors including Rhian Horton at Stellation Capital, though the firm has not backed the company to date.
3. Tolan
Tolan is an AI companion platform designed to simulate conversation and connection. The startup is among those being closely watched by Larco, though she has not invested in the company, Business Insider says.
4. Swsh
Swsh is a Gen Z-focused photo-sharing platform designed for live events like Rolling Loud and Electric Daisy Carnival Vegas. According to its<a href="https://www.joinswsh.com/"> website</a>, Swsh uses AI to help users surface photos and videos from shared albums and includes group chat features for real-time connection.
Trending: GoSun's Breakthrough Rooftop EV Charger Already Has 2,000+ Units Reserved — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/meet-the-company-seeking-to-give-americans-energy-independence-and-learn-how-you-can-become-an-early-investor">Become an Investor in This $41.3M Clean Energy Brand Today</a>
5. Doji
Virtual try-on for fashion, Doji uses AI to generate avatars showing designer clothes and raised $14 million in a Thrive Capital-led seed round, according to Business Insider.
6. Bible Chat
An AI chatbot trained on the Bible, Bible Chat has 25 million users and $16 million in funding, Business Insider says. The company's funding reflects growing investor interest in spiritual AI platforms.
7. Series
This Yale-founded professional networking app employs AI agents to connect early-career users. According to Business Insider, it has strong early-stage capital behind it, fueling interest from investors drawn to AI-driven professional tools.
8. Beli
A real-world dining tracker, Beli gamifies restaurant visits with friend ranking in 30,000 cities and over 65 million ratings. The startup has raised $12 million in funding and highlights how AI and real-world interaction are fueling investor interest, Business Insider says.
9. Lore
A fandom-centric AI platform, Lore is still in beta but has caught VC attention for its focus on niche communities, according to Business Insider.
10. Status
Status is an AI-powered social platform that lets users interact with fictional characters designed to simulate social media experiences. The app was launched by a team that went through Y Combinator in 2022 and has attracted over 2.5 million users to date. Investors including FirstMark's Derek Chu and Patron's Amber Atherton named Status as a startup to watch, though neither firm has backed the company, Business Insider says.
See Also: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wiseradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation.&nbsp;</a>
11. Spillt
Called "Goodreads for recipes," Spillt lets users clip and share recipes and has collected over 400,000 items. Business Insider says that by combining social discovery and cooking, Spillt shows how niche apps build truly engaged communities.
12. Gigi
Marketed as "the AI who knows everyone," Gigi connects users via personalized AI matchmaking. Gigi is co-founded by Clara Gold and backed by Intuition VC angel Hugo Amsellem, according to Business Insider.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Investor Signals Point to a New Era for Consumer Tech</h2>
Artificial intelligence continues to shape the investment landscape in consumer startups. Paul Warren, CEO of Margins, told Business Insider that there have been "no real crazy big raises… unless it is a really strong gen AI angle." That shift in funding strategy is driving the rise of startups that combine AI with specific, high-engagement use cases.
General platforms are losing ground to niche communities, Business Insider says. According to Warren, users are turning toward "much smaller things, cozier things, much more niche-oriented things."
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Image: Shutterstock

12 Next-Gen AI And Social Startups Backed By Thrive Capital And Y Combinator Shaping 2025: 'We're On The Brink Of Another Big Consumer Wave'

President Donald Trump faced criticism from Jewish leaders and lawmakers on Friday after using a term historically associated with antisemitic stereotypes during a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46263734/trump-says-we-pretty-much-have-a-deal-as-he-reveals-us-will-resume-tiktok-deal-talks-with-china-soon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">rally in Iowa the night before</a>.
While speaking about estate taxes, Trump referred to lenders as &#8220;Shylocks and bad people,&#8221; a comment that drew swift backlash, The New York Times <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/04/us/politics/jewish-trump-shylock-slur-adl.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
When questioned about the remark afterward, the president claimed he was unaware that the word carried antisemitic connotations.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="http://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46263553/social-security-administration-sends-unbelievable-email-on-trumps-big-beautiful-bill-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Social Security Administration Sends &#8216;Unbelievable&#8217; Email On Trump&#8217;s &#8216;Big, Beautiful Bill&#8217;: Report</a>
The term &#8220;Shylock&#8221; originates from Shakespeare&#8217;s &#8220;The Merchant of Venice&#8221; and has long been condemned for promoting damaging Jewish stereotypes, the Times adds.
Rep. Dan Goldman (D-NY) took to social media to call out the president&#8217;s language, labeling it &#8220;blatant and vile antisemitism&#8221; and accusing Trump of intentional provocation.
Goldman emphasized that genuine opposition to antisemitism requires denouncing it across the political spectrum.
Rep. Jerry Nadler (D-NY) called the term &#8220;one of the most recognizable antisemitic slurs in the English language.&#8221;
He said that the comment demonstrated how antisemitism within Trump&#8217;s administration is systemic, not isolated, and pointed directly to the president as the source.
The Anti-Defamation League condemned the remark as well, stating that invoking &#8220;Shylock&#8221; reinforces age-old prejudices linking Jewish identity to greed. The organization called the language &#8220;extremely offensive and dangerous,&#8221; The Times adds.
Trump, who has previously stated that combating antisemitism is a priority of his administration, has taken steps like pulling federal funding from universities over alleged antisemitic activity and revoking visas for demonstrators supporting Palestinian causes.
Still, critics argue that his pattern of rhetoric undermines those efforts.
Parallels were drawn to a 2014 incident when then-Vice President Joe Biden apologized for using the same slur during a speech, the report reads.
Biden&#8217;s prompt acknowledgment of the mistake stood in contrast to Trump&#8217;s claim of ignorance.
Public scrutiny continues to grow over the administration&#8217;s language and actions as Jewish organizations and lawmakers call for more consistent accountability.
Trump&#8217;s comment has reignited debate over the boundaries between free expression and the propagation of harmful stereotypes.
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Trump Hit With Backlash Over Use of Antisemitic Slur at Iowa Rally

A caller to &#8220;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otAjwRukr_Y">The Ramsey Show</a>&#8221; recently shared a hard lesson learned about gambling and debt with hosts George Kamel and Jade Warshaw. Her decision to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45523239/graham-stephan-explains-why-auto-loans-are-the-biggest-scam-in-america-its-scary">skip car payments</a> and try her luck at the casino backfired in a big way, resulting in a repossession and a remaining debt of over $19,000.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">She Tried To Flip Car Payments Into Gambling Winnings</h2>
&#8220;Instead of making my payments, I was thinking I can go to the casino and double it to make payments and things like that,&#8221; the caller said. But it didn't work out. The car was repossessed and later sold for about $3,500, leaving her responsible for the large remaining balance on the loan.
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Adding to the confusion, she began receiving toll road bills tied to the vehicle even after it was sold. &#8220;I did reach out to toll road. They did get confirmation that the car was sold,&#8221; she explained, noting she never received advance notice of the sale.
The woman, who is in Dave Ramsey's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/06/39316291/dave-ramsey-tells-americans-if-you-retire-broke-its-your-fault-explains-how-to-retire-with-1-mil">Baby Step 1 with $1,000 saved</a>, said the gambling addiction played a central role in the situation. She&#8217;s taken steps to address it, including cutting off online ads and distractions, but admitted, she hasn&#8217;t been to Gamblers Anonymous.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">George And Jade Urged A Settlement Approach</h2>
Kamel emphasized that fixing the financial issue won't matter if the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44113652/sports-betting-isnt-just-a-little-hobby-says-dave-ramsey-he-believes-its-an-addiction-thats-ruining-families-the-house-always-wins">gambling problem</a> isn't resolved: &#8220;I just want to make sure that we&#8217;ve resolved the root problem here before we just fix the repo.&#8221;
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When asked how much she owed in total debt, she replied, &#8220;That's all I have for now.&#8221; Her income is $4,000 a month, and her only major monthly expense is $1,300 for rent, which includes utilities. With minimal transportation costs and no dependents, she believes she can save up enough to offer a lump-sum settlement.
Kamel recommended that she negotiate a payoff amount, such as $7,000, and get the terms in writing. &#8220;This is everything I have. Would you be willing to settle in full for this amount?&#8221; he suggested she say when reaching out to the lender.
He also warned, &#8220;Don&#8217;t give them access to your checking account. Get it all in writing, and instead do like a cashier&#8217;s check or a money order.&#8221;
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Warshaw reminded her to make sure the debt is officially marked as paid in full in writing to avoid future issues. If successful, this would leave her completely debt-free.
&#8220;I figured I can do it,&#8221; the caller said, adding that with her children now adults, she doesn't have the same financial responsibilities she once did.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Emotional And Financial Toll</h2>
While the financial loss is steep, Kamel and Warshaw pointed out the emotional cost as well. &#8220;It's heartbreaking to watch,&#8221; Kamel said of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45545468/average-new-car-loan-payment-is-750-and-costs-are-rising-suze-orman-urges-families-to-consider-if-they-could-get-by-with-one-less-car">car repossession</a> videos. &#8220;I feel like the emotional toll on that is just as painful as the financial toll,&#8221; Warshaw added.
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Image: Shutterstock

A Dave Ramsey Caller Skipped Her Car Payments To Gamble And Double The Money. The Plan Failed, And Now She's $19,000 In Debt With No Car

In the latest development in their ongoing feud, Elon Musk and Steve Bannon have each predicted severe legal repercussions for the other.
What Happened: Bannon has suggested that Musk, a naturalized U.S. citizen, should be deported.
During the war of words on X, Musk, in turn, predicted that Bannon — who previously served a four-month sentence for contempt of Congress — could face a longer prison term.
Bannon has expressed criticism of Musk&#8217;s plans to establish a new political party. He questioned the legitimacy of a &#8220;non-American&#8221; starting an America Party and suggested that Musk, who was born in South Africa, &#8220;may be here illegally.&#8221;
Musk responded by predicting that Bannon would return to prison for a long time, stating, &#8220;He&nbsp;has a lifetime of crime&nbsp;to pay for.&#8221; He did not specify the crimes that could potentially land Bannon back in prison.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">The fat, drunken slob called Bannon will go back to prison and this time for a long time. He has a lifetime of crime to pay for.
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1941211464683123048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
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During the 2024 election cycle, Musk reportedly spent approximately $291 million, notably to support Trump, according to OpenSecrets.org. 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Prison for Bannon
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1941404131186573727?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
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However, the two had a falling out over President Donald Trump's signature "big beautiful bill." Musk had stated that he would form his new party as an alternative to both Republicans and Democrats if the bill passed, which it did.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42935180/steve-bannon-targets-elon-musk-pledges-to-expel-him-from-maga-movement-he-is-a-truly-evil-guy">Steve Bannon Targets Elon Musk, Pledges To Expel Him From MAGA Movement: &#8216;He Is a Truly Evil Guy&#8217;</a>
Bannon, who headed Trump's 2016 campaign and served as chief strategist early in Trump's first administration, was pardoned by Trump in 2021 in a fraud case.
Despite this, Musk&nbsp;implied that more legal trouble&nbsp;may be heading Bannon's way.
Why It Matters: This feud between Musk and Bannon, two influential figures in their respective fields, has the potential to impact their future endeavors. 
Musk&#8217;s plans for a new political party could be affected by Bannon&#8217;s accusations, while Bannon&#8217;s legal future could be influenced by Musk&#8217;s predictions. 
The feud also highlights the ongoing tensions within the political landscape, reflecting the broader divisions within American society.
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Musk Says Steve Bannon Will 'Go to Prison for a Long Time' After Deportation Jab: 'He Has Lifetime of Crime To Pay For'

During a segment of "The Ramsey Show," the personal finance expert, Dave Ramsey, explained why real estate can outperform stocks in terms of returns, if investors are willing to deal with the added time, complexity and risk involved.
What Happened: On the show, a caller named Jason from Oklahoma asked Ramsey whether investing in real estate offers better value than the stock market, especially in the then-current economic environment where stock prices seem disconnected from company earnings.
"It just seems like the price of a lot of stocks is completely irrelevant to the company's earnings," the caller said. "If I buy a rental property, for example, it actually generates cash, whereas the only value you get from a stock is when you sell it."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45485070/the-stock-market-is-shooting-through-the-roof-says-dave-ramsey-but-claims-the-medias-silent-they-want-you-addicted-to-fear">&#8216;The Stock Market Is Shooting Through The Roof,&#8217; Says Dave Ramsey. But Claims The Media&#8217;s Silent—&#8217;They Want You Addicted To Fear&#8217;</a>
Ramsey acknowledged that well-managed real estate investments often yield higher internal rates of return (IRR), thanks to three income streams: appreciation, rental cash flow and tax benefits like depreciation.
However, he warned that higher returns don't come free. "It involves more hassle, more of your time—even if you hire a management company," he said.
He went on to note that real estate outperforms "mainly because it's an imperfect market," where buyers and sellers often don't have the same information, making it easier to find undervalued deals.
Ramsey contrasted this with the stock market, which he described as a more efficient and passive investment vehicle, especially when using mutual funds. "You have zero hassle factor … buying a mutual fund and throwing it in the drawer and forget it," he said.
Responding to the caller's concern that the stock market feels like a "casino," Ramsey pushed back, saying, "No, it's not a casino. A casino is a game of chance. With stocks, you can analyze growth, profit margins, management and trends."
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Why It's Important: In January earlier this year, during a podcast, Ramsey predicted a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/25/01/43108825/im-afraid-in-a-good-way-dave-ramsey-bullish-on-2025-real-estate-says-its-going-to-be-a-booming-market-created-by-pent-up-demand">"booming" real estate market</a> in 2025 due to pent-up demand after a sluggish period. However, despite his optimistic views, Ramsey cautioned that 2025 might not be the best time to buy, as overheated markets could lead to overpaying.
According to Celebrity Net Worth, Ramsey currently has a net worth of $200 million. Of his $200 million net worth, $150 million comes from his real estate holdings.
Born in 1960 in Tennessee to real estate developer parents, Ramsey started selling property while studying finance and real estate at the University of Tennessee. By 1986, he had built a $4 million real estate portfolio but filed for bankruptcy in 1988 after new banking regulations led to his loans being recalled.
He began giving financial advice through his church. In 1992, Ramsey became a radio host, eventually creating "The Dave Ramsey Show" (now "The Ramsey Show").
Photo Courtesy: II.studio on Shutterstock.com
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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