Justine Musk, the first wife of billionaire Elon Musk, once shared her unique insights on the journey to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/22/05/27458121/heres-elon-musks-piece-of-advice-for-ex-girlfriend-amber-heard"> becoming a billionaire.</a>



What Happened: In 2015, Justine Musk responded to a Quora thread questioning whether determination and hard work alone lead to a billion-dollar fortune. As Elon Musk's first wife, she firmly answered, &#8220;No.&#8221;



She suggested that the question was misguided, emphasizing that determination alone falls short of the mark. To become a billionaire, one must be ready to tackle extreme challenges head-on.



She <a href="https://www.quora.com/Will-I-become-a-billionaire-if-I-am-determined-to-be-one-and-put-in-all-the-necessary-work-required">wrote</a>, &#8220;You&#8217;re determined. So what? You haven&#8217;t been racing naked through shark-infested waters yet,&#8221; underlining the high level of risk and resilience required to accumulate such wealth.



&#8220;Will you be just as determined when you wash up on some deserted island, disoriented and bloody and ragged and beaten and staring into the horizon with no sign of rescue?&#8221; she further wrote in the post.



&#8220;Shift your focus away from what you want a billion dollars and get deeply, intensely curious about what the world wants and needs. Ask yourself what you have the potential to offer that is so unique and compelling and helpful that no computer could replace you, no one could outsource you, no one could steal your product and make it better and then club you into oblivion (not literally). Then develop that potential. Choose one thing and become a master of it. Choose a second thing and become a master of that,&#8221; she continued. 



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/09/35016865/elon-musks-father-open-to-more-children-despite-age-if-shes-under-35-i-wouldnt-think-twice-about-hav" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk's Father Open To More Children Despite Age: "If She's Under 35, I Wouldn't Think Twice About Having Another Child"</a>



Justine Musk&#8217;s insights are based on her personal experience being married to Elon Musk, who has an estimated net worth of $12.1 billion. 



&#8220;The world doesn&#8217;t throw a billion dollars at a person because the person wants it or works so hard they feel they deserve it. The world does not care what you want or deserve. The world gives you money in exchange for something it perceives to be of equal or greater value: something that transforms an aspect of the culture, reworks a familiar story or introduces a new one, alters the way people think about the category and make use of it in daily life. There is no roadmap, no blueprint for this; a lot of people will give you a lot of advice, and most of it will be bad, and a lot of it will be good and sound but you&#8217;ll have to figure out how it doesn&#8217;t apply to you because you&#8217;re coming from an unexpected angle,&#8221; she wrote in the post. 



Elon Musk is renowned for his roles in founding PayPal and leading innovative companies like Tesla and SpaceX.



Why It Matters: Justine Musk&#8217;s comments provide a rare glimpse into the mindset and challenges of those who have achieved billionaire status. Her unique perspective, shaped by her close relationship with one of the world&#8217;s most successful entrepreneurs, offers valuable insights for those aspiring to similar levels of success. 



Her emphasis on the need for resilience and a willingness to face extreme challenges echoes the experiences of many successful entrepreneurs. 



This serves as a reminder that the path to significant wealth is often fraught with risk and requires more than just determination and hard work.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/07/39657381/elon-musks-mother-recounts-time-her-children-used-to-ask-for-food-she-couldnt-afford-after-">Elon Musk&#8217;s Mother Recounts Time Her Children Used To Ask For Food She Couldn&#8217;t Afford After Her Divorce: &#8216;If They Complained, I Didn&#8217;t Listen&#8217;</a>

News

Social Media

TSLA

Elon Musk's Ex-Wife Spills The Truth About What It Really Takes To Be A Billionaire: 'There Is No Roadmap, No Blueprint For This'

President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;has strongly criticized the U.K. government&#8217;s demand for&nbsp;Apple Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) to&nbsp;create a backdoor&nbsp;into its encrypted cloud storage, comparing the move to authoritarian surveillance <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/03/44069785/trump-blasts-uks-apple-encryption-order-warns-against-grave-privacy-violations-thats-something-you-hear-about-with-china" rel="noreferrer noopener">tactics used in China</a>.



First Lady&nbsp;Melania Trump&nbsp;used her first major public appearance to call for stronger protections against online abuse, advocating for legislation&nbsp;targeting deepfake&nbsp;and revenge pornography while criticizing <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/03/44100458/melania-trump-attacks-democrats-for-skipping-key-discussion-on-deepfakes-first-lady-wants-tougher-safeguards-for-children" rel="noreferrer noopener">Democrats for their absence at the discussion</a>.



Smartphones



Honor&nbsp;has ramped up its AI ambitions with a $10 billion investment over the next five years, alongside a deeper<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44068933/google-and-chinas-honor-deepen-ai-partnership-as-huawei-spin-off-takes-on-apple-and-samsung-with-10-billion-investment" rel="noreferrer noopener"> partnership with&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44068933/google-and-chinas-honor-deepen-ai-partnership-as-huawei-spin-off-takes-on-apple-and-samsung-with-10-billion-investment" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alphabet Inc.&#8217;s&nbsp;Google</a>.



Technology



Major tech firms, including&nbsp;Meta Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>),&nbsp;ByteDance-owned&nbsp;TikTok, and&nbsp;Snapchat, are urging Australia to reconsider the exemption of&nbsp;YouTube, an online video sharing platform owned by Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) Google, from its&nbsp;ban on social media<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44132618/meta-tiktok-and-snapchat-push-back-against-youtubes-exemption-from-australias-social-media-ban-for-children-under-16" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> access&nbsp;for users under 16</a>.



Apple, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) launched <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44143576/apples-latest-macbook-air-with-m4-chip-is-twice-as-fast-as-its-predecessor-with-lower-price" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">its newest MacBook Air</a> with equipped with the advanced M4 chip for improved speed, longer battery life, and a 12MP camera. The base version costs as low as $999.



Google has begun disabling uBlock Origin and other extensions that rely on its outdated Manifest V2 framework, leaving millions of Chrome users scrambling for alternatives as the company fully transitions <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/03/44135027/googles-chrome-changes-disable-ublock-origin-for-even-more-users-can-you-still-block-ads" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">to its new extension standard, </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/03/44135027/googles-chrome-changes-disable-ublock-origin-for-even-more-users-can-you-still-block-ads" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Manifest V3</a>.



Ransomware operators have found a way to exploit a Windows-signed driver from&nbsp;Paragon Partition Manager, posing a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44105518/microsoft-adds-paragon-partition-manager-driver-to-blocklist-as-ransomware-hackers-exploit-windows-signed-driver-for-attacks" rel="noreferrer noopener">threat to system security</a>.



Discord, the popular&nbsp;social chat app&nbsp;favored by gamers, is reportedly in early discussions with investment bankers <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44157952/discord-reportedly-exploring-ipo-in-2025heres-what-we-know-about-the-gaming-chat-titans-plans" rel="noreferrer noopener">about a potential initial public offering in 2025.</a>



Former&nbsp;Intel Corp.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) CEO&nbsp;Craig Barrett&nbsp;has strongly criticized calls to divide Intel&#8217;s business, arguing that the company should focus on its recent <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44070969/former-intel-ceo-craig-barrett-warns-that-splitting-the-company-would-be-a-costly-mistake-a-far-better-move-might-be-to-fire-the-intel-board-and-rehire-pat-gelsinger" rel="noreferrer noopener">chipmaking breakthroughs instead</a>.



Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44070785/top-analyst-shuts-down-nvidia-cowos-order-cut-rumors-confirms-tsmcs-2025-expansion-is-steady-at-70000-wafers-per-month" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ming-Chi Kuo Dismisses Nvidia Order Cut Speculation Amid Intact AI Demand, Confirms TSMC Expansion On Track</a>



Reddit Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDDT#NYSE">RDDT</a>) co-founder and venture capitalist&nbsp;Alexis Ohanian&nbsp;has joined&nbsp;Frank McCourt&#8217;s&nbsp;bid to acquire&nbsp;TikTok&#8217;s&nbsp;U.S. operations, as competition intensifies with rival groups that include&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;star&nbsp;Jimmy Donalson, aka&nbsp;MrBeast, tech entrepreneur&nbsp;Jesse Tinsley, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/03/44100560/reddit-co-founder-alexis-ohanian-joins-frank-mccourts-tiktok-bid-amid-competition-from-mrbeast-jesse-tinsley-and-reid-rasner" rel="noreferrer noopener">and&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/03/44100560/reddit-co-founder-alexis-ohanian-joins-frank-mccourts-tiktok-bid-amid-competition-from-mrbeast-jesse-tinsley-and-reid-rasner" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wyoming</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/03/44100560/reddit-co-founder-alexis-ohanian-joins-frank-mccourts-tiktok-bid-amid-competition-from-mrbeast-jesse-tinsley-and-reid-rasner" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;investor&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/03/44100560/reddit-co-founder-alexis-ohanian-joins-frank-mccourts-tiktok-bid-amid-competition-from-mrbeast-jesse-tinsley-and-reid-rasner" rel="noreferrer noopener">Reid Rasner</a>.



Artificial Intelligence (AI)



Tencent Holdings&#8217; (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCEHY#OTC">TCEHY</a>) Yuanbao AI&nbsp;chatbot has surpassed&nbsp;DeepSeek&nbsp;as the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44101621/deepseek-loses-top-spot-as-tencents-yuanbao-ai-becomes-no-1-iphone-app-amid-intensifying-ai-battle" rel="noreferrer noopener">most downloaded&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44101621/deepseek-loses-top-spot-as-tencents-yuanbao-ai-becomes-no-1-iphone-app-amid-intensifying-ai-battle" rel="noreferrer noopener">iPhone</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44101621/deepseek-loses-top-spot-as-tencents-yuanbao-ai-becomes-no-1-iphone-app-amid-intensifying-ai-battle" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;app in China</a>.



Chinese AI startup&nbsp;DeepSeek&nbsp;revealed cost and revenue estimates for its popular&nbsp;V3&nbsp;and&nbsp;R1&nbsp;models, showing a theoretical cost-profit <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44069178/chinas-deepseek-report-545-theoretical-daily-profit-margin-once-again-raising-questions-about-openai-and-other-us-ai-firms-billion-dollar-chip-investments" rel="noreferrer noopener">ratio of up to 545% per day</a>.



Anthropic&nbsp;CEO&nbsp;Dario Amodei&nbsp;has called for stronger U.S. AI safeguards, warning that autocratic regimes like China and Russia could use artificial intelligence to enhance their<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44069535/jeff-bezos-backed-anthropic-pushes-for-stronger-us-ai-safeguards-saying-autocracies-like-china-russia-could-use-ai-to-expand-their-power-some-very-dark-possbilities" rel="noreferrer noopener"> control and military capabilities</a>.



Anthropic and&nbsp;Google has raised $3.5 billion in a Series E funding round,<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44099466/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-nosedive-as-trumps-tariff-moves-wipe-out-crypto-reserve-fueled-gains-analyst-says-breaking-through-this-barrier-will-help-btc-touch-new-highs" rel="noreferrer noopener"> bringing its valuation to $61.5 billion</a>.

Equities

Large Cap

Tech

AAPL

GOOG

INTC

RDDT

TCEHY

Consumer Tech News (Mar 3-Mar 7): Discord May Initiate IPO, Apple's New MacBook Air With M4 Chip, Tencent' Yuanbao AI Surpassed DeepSeek As Most Downloaded & More

Benzinga examined the prospects for<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas"> many investors' favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here's a look at some of our top stories.



Market volatility has surged due to uncertainties around U.S. trade tariffs. President Trump's shifting stance on a 25% import tariff has unsettled investors, leading to a sharp decline in the U.S. dollar, which saw its worst weekly drop since November 2022.



Stock markets have also been affected, with the S&amp;P 500 and Nasdaq 100 extending their losses. The Nasdaq 100 entered correction territory, dropping over 10% from its peak. Investors now anticipate potential Federal Reserve rate cuts amid trade uncertainty and weaker economic data.



Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) has not been spared, slipping below $90,000 despite the U.S. establishing a strategic reserve. This reflects broader market fears and the interplay between financial policies and digital assets. The mix of trade concerns, currency fluctuations, and market reactions highlights ongoing financial instability.



Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week's most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look.



The Bulls



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44181200/broadcom-stock-surges-on-q1-earnings-beat-revenue-beat-strong-guidance-we-expect-continued-strength-in-ai-semiconductor-revenue">"Broadcom Stock Surges On Q1 Earnings Beat, Revenue Beat, Strong Guidance: ‘We Expect Continued Strength In AI Semiconductor Revenue'"</a> by Adam Eckert reports that Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) reported first-quarter revenue of $14.92 billion, surpassing analyst estimates of $14.61 billion, and adjusted earnings per share of $1.60, exceeding expectations of $1.49, with the company anticipating continued strength in AI semiconductor revenue.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44126630/chargepoint-shares-climb-after-solid-q4-report-q1-guidance-details">"ChargePoint Shares Climb After Solid Q4 Report, Q1 Guidance: Details"</a> by Erica Kollmann reports that ChargePoint Holdings Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CHPT#NYSE">CHPT</a>) posted a Q4 loss of 14 cents per share, meeting expectations, while revenue of $101.88 million slightly exceeded forecasts, driving shares higher.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/25/03/44149912/jd-com-stock-soars-102-in-a-year-can-q4-earnings-keep-the-rally-alive">"JD.Com Stock Soars 102% In A Year: Can Q4 Earnings Keep The Rally Alive?"</a> by Surbhi Jain reports that JD.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JD#NASDAQ">JD</a>) has surged 102% in a year, with investors eyeing Q4 earnings to determine if the rally will continue.



For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44154278/lendingtree-stock-rallies-after-strong-q4-results-details">LendingTree Stock Rallies After Strong Q4 Results: Details</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44096190/quantum-si-shares-climb-despite-worse-than-expected-q4-results">Quantum-Si Shares Climb Despite Worse-Than-Expected Q4 Results</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/25/03/44175102/stocks-of-the-day-are-double-bottom-patterns-bullish-for-valero-marathon">Stocks Of The Day: Are Double Bottom Patterns Bullish For Valero, Marathon?</a>



The Bears



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44180568/bigbear-ai-stock-plummets-after-q4-eps-revenues-miss-details">"BigBear.ai Stock Plummets After Q4 EPS, Revenues Miss: Details"</a> by Erica Kollmann reports that BigBear.ai Holdings Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BBAI#NYSE">BBAI</a>) posted a quarterly loss of 43 cents per share, missing analyst expectations of a 5-cent loss, with revenue of $43.8 million falling short of the anticipated $54.48 million, leading to a 22.1% drop in stock value.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/ipos/25/03/44108760/coreweaves-ipo-3-major-red-flags-investors-cant-ignore">"CoreWeave's IPO: 3 Major Red Flags Investors Can't Ignore"</a> by Surbhi Jain reports that concerns arised over CoreWeave's dependency on Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), aggressive valuation, and competition from tech giants like Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) and Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/03/44152781/marvell-technology-stock-drops-after-q4-results-q1-guidance-roughly-in-line-details">"Marvell Technology Stock Drops After Q4 Results, Q1 Guidance Roughly In-Line: Details"</a> by Erica Kollmann reports that Marvell Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVL#NASDAQ">MRVL</a>) posted a Q4 adjusted earnings per share of 60 cents, slightly surpassing analyst expectations, but shares fell due to in-line Q1 guidance.



For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/25/03/44149416/mongodb-slides-into-q4-earnings-bearish-signals-vs-wall-street-optimism">MongoDB Slides Into Q4 Earnings: Bearish Signals Vs. Wall Street Optimism</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44103584/plug-stock-drops-as-hydrogen-leader-struggles-with-margins-initiates-cost-reduction-plan">Plug Power Tightens Its Belt: Plans Massive Cost Cuts &amp; Cash Burn Control In New Strategy</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/03/44139684/trump-bump-turns-into-slump-spy-sinks-as-sp-500-erases-post-election-gains">Trump Bump Turns Into A Slump: SPY Sinks As S&amp;P 500 Erases Post-Election Gains</a>



Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following <a href="https://twitter.com/Benzinga">Benzinga</a><a href="http://twitter.com/Benzinga"> on X</a>.



Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

Markets

$BTC

AMZN

AVGO

BBAI

CHPT

MRVL

MSFT

NVDA

Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Broadcom, ChargePoint, BigBear.ai — And Tariff Whiplash Confounds Markets

Concerns over <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/tariffs">trade tariffs continue</a> to rattle financial markets, fueling economic uncertainty and sparking heightened volatility across asset classes.



President Donald Trump initially proposed a 25% tariff on imports from Mexico and Canada starting from Tuesday, but later excluded automobiles before ultimately deciding to postpone all tariffs covered under the North American <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44143647/trump-considering-tariff-relief-for-mexico-canada-commerce-secretary-lutnick-says">trade agreement until April 2.</a>



The U.S. dollar suffered heavy losses, with the Dollar Index posting its steepest weekly decline since November 2022, effectively wiping out gains made following Trump's election victory.



Wall Street extended its losing streak to three consecutive weeks, with the Nasdaq 100 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44197558/whats-moving-markets-friday">sliding into correctio</a>n territory after tumbling more than <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44186189/nasdaq-100-to-enter-bear-market-territory-next-two-weeks-crucial-as-35-fall-following-correction-can-make-it-a-reality-warns-analyst">10% from its peak.</a> The S&amp;P 500 also gave up all gains accumulated post-Trump election.



Energy and financial stocks led the decline, as investors trimmed their growth forecasts for the U.S. economy in response to trade uncertainty and weaker economic data.



Fresh estimates from the Atlanta Fed's GDPNow model suggest that real GDP growth for the first quarter of 2025 could shrink by 2.4% annualized. 



Market expectations for Federal Reserve policy have also shifted significantly. Just a month ago, traders priced in only one rate cut by year-end, but now three cuts are fully anticipated.



On the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/03/44194357/markets-breathe-sigh-of-relief-as-february-jobs-data-shows-economy-not-falling-off-a-cliff-economist-says">labor market front</a>, the pace of job creation stood at 151,000 in February, up from 125,000 in January but slightly below forecasts of 160,000. The unemployment rate edged up from 4% to 4.1%, slightly above forecasts of an unchanged reading.



Wage growth also showed signs of slowing, with average hourly earnings rising 0.3% month-over-month, down from January's 0.4% increase.



Bitcoin prices softened despite a major policy move from the White House. Trump signed an executive order establishing a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve, aimed at leveraging seized digital assets for government use.



David Sacks, the White House&#8217;s crypto and AI policy leader revealed the reserve would be entirely funded using Bitcoin confiscated from illicit activities through criminal or civil asset forfeiture cases, meaning it wouldn't impose any direct <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44183572/trump-establishes-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-funded-by-forfeited-assets-i-made-the-promise">financial cost on taxpayers.</a>&nbsp;



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Auto Stocks Surge</h1>



Shares of major Michigan-based automakers rebounded as Trump postponed tariffs on Mexican imports, giving Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>), General Motors Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>), and Stellantis NV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STLA#NYSE">STLA</a>) short-term relief, though <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/25/03/44153070/auto-etfs-surge-on-trumps-tariff-reprieve-but-uncertainty-looms">long-term uncertainty persists.</a> Read Next: •<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44196560/bessent-describes-economic-detox-period-as-us-shifts-to-trump-policies"> Bessent Describes Economic &#8216;Detox Period&#8217; As US Shifts To Trump Policies</a>



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Global

STLA

Tariff Uncertainty Roils Wall Street, Dollar Suffers A Blow, Bitcoin Slips Despite US Strategic Reserve: This Week In Markets

Retail pharmacy giant Rite Aid has agreed to pay $6.8 million to its customers following a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41305389/major-banks-suffer-data-breaches-how-safe-is-your-information"> significant data breach.</a>



What Happened: Hackers from the RansomHub group&nbsp;impersonated a Rite Aid employee&nbsp;and gained access to the company&#8217;s systems. 



This breach, which took place over the summer, exposed personal data of approximately 2.2 million customers. The compromised data includes names, addresses, birth dates, and purchase-related IDs from June 2017 to July 2018.



A federal judge has given preliminary <a href="https://dd80b675424c132b90b3-e48385e382d2e5d17821a5e1d8e4c86b.ssl.cf1.rackcdn.com/external/rite-aid-settlement-agreement-02feb2025.pdf">approval </a>to the $6.8 million settlement. Customers affected by the breach&nbsp;can claim up to $10,000&nbsp;for documented losses. 



Rite Aid,&nbsp;which came out of bankruptcy in September 2024, has stated that it is upgrading its digital security and will notify individuals impacted by the breach.



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44089929/t-mobile-to-shell-out-350-million-to-customers-in-wake-of-massive-data-breach">T-Mobile to Shell Out $350 Million to Customers in Wake of Massive Data Breach</a>



More information about the settlement will be available on RiteAidDataSettlement.com in the upcoming weeks, although the site was not operational at the time of the report.



Why It Matters: This settlement comes as a significant development for Rite Aid, which is still recovering from its bankruptcy. The data breach had further tarnished the company&#8217;s reputation, affecting customer trust and loyalty. 



The settlement is a step towards rectifying the damage and restoring faith in the company&#8217;s commitment to data security. 



Furthermore, it serves as a reminder for other companies about the importance of robust digital security systems to protect customer data.



Read Next



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Hackers Expose Customer Data—Retail Pharmacy Giant Paying $6.8M in Compensation

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., the new Secretary of Health and Human Services, is reportedly set to meet with top executives from <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43832950/oreo-maker-mondelez-faces-rising-costs-due-to-new-us-health-policies" rel="noreferrer noopener">several major food brands on Monday.</a>



This gathering marks the first direct encounter between Kennedy and the companies he&#8217;s publicly accused of contributing to Americans&#8217; health issues, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/03/08/rfk-jr-food-industry-meeting-00219631" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports </a>POLITICO, citing sources familiar with the discussions.



Among the expected attendees are senior leaders from General Mills, Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GIS#NYSE">GIS</a>) and PepsiCo, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PEP#NASDAQ">PEP</a>).



The discussion comes at the request of the White House, which has encouraged Cabinet officials to engage with industries they oversee. Kennedy, a vocal critic of the food industry, has long blamed major food conglomerates for fueling the rise of chronic illnesses in children, the report adds.



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His &#8220;Make America Healthy Again&#8221; movement advocates for significant changes to food practices, such as reducing food dyes and banning certain chemicals.



The meeting, which could be a pivotal moment for both the industry and Kennedy&#8217;s agenda, will address concerns such as eliminating seed oils, banning additives, and the FDA&#8217;s new plans for nutrition labels, POLITICO further notes.



Food companies have expressed alarm over Kennedy&#8217;s proposals, particularly his stance on ultra-processed foods and his push for stricter regulations on additives.



Additionally, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Agriculture are expected to finalize the next Dietary Guidelines for Americans, providing another opportunity for the food industry to sway key decisions on nutrition and public health.



The meeting&#8217;s agenda remains uncertain, with some industry players expressing concerns about potential conflicts over the direction of the discussions.



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Politics

General

RFK Jr. Takes On Food Giants: Calls Meeting With PepsiCo And General Mills

Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) is said to be maintaining a clandestine &#8216;do not rehire&#8217; list of its former employees, who are barred from rejoining the company, irrespective of a vice president&#8217;s endorsement.



What Happened: A recent report has revealed that a former engineer at Meta found themselves deemed "ineligible for rehire" after submitting nearly 20 applications. The engineer was among the 10,000 employees who lost their jobs during the company's 2022 downsizing.



The engineer had been associated with the company for more than four years and had consistently exceeded expectations in performance ratings. 



They had also been promoted to a senior technical position the previous year. However, after applying for multiple positions, they noticed a worrying trend. Initial conversations with hiring managers would suddenly cease once the recruitment screening phase was reached, reports <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/meta-secret-block-lists-bar-rehiring-some-former-employees-2025-2?insiderId=79c06dc4-15de-41c4-a938-2ca835542ee0">the </a>Insider. 



Five ex-employees, including two managers, confirmed to Business Insider that Meta maintains internal lists that bar certain former employees from being rehired. Employment experts suggest that while such lists are not illegal, they are not common practice. Even high-performing employees can find themselves on these lists without a clear reason.



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Meta reportedly uses several tracking systems to enforce these restrictions, including a "non-regrettable attrition" designation and a "do not rehire" flag. 



The company asserts that these designations are applied fairly, and rehire eligibility is determined at the time of departure, based on factors such as policy violations and performance metrics.



Meanwhile, former Google HR chief Laszlo Bock has shared his thoughts about Meta&#8217;s internal &#8220;block&#8221; lists, which can prevent certain former employees from being rehired.



In a LinkedIn <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/posts/laszlobock_meta-keeps-block-lists-of-ex-employees-activity-7303157715369897984-rL6E?utm_source=social_share_send&amp;utm_medium=member_desktop_web&amp;rcm=ACoAAAP-gw4B6ptW5YHEGD_6Aq-YEJO11zkExL8">post </a>he wrote, &#8220;I&#8217;ve never heard of anything like this. I&#8217;ve sometimes heard an exec say, &#8216;don&#8217;t ever re-hire this person&#8217;, but never seen a large scale, systematic approach like this. Have folks seen this elsewhere?&#8221;



Why It Matters: This revelation could potentially raise questions about Meta&#8217;s hiring practices and treatment of its employees. The alleged &#8216;do not rehire&#8217; list, if proven true, could impact the company&#8217;s reputation and its ability to attract and retain talent. 



It also raises concerns about the transparency of the company&#8217;s policies towards its employees. The impact of this development on Meta&#8217;s stock performance remains to be seen.



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Meta Secretly Keeps 'Block' Lists of Ex-Employee, Former Google HR Chief Calls It 'Unheard Of'

Billionaire Peter Thiel, who has no formal position in the Trump Administration, has multiple affiliations with <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44197287/us-to-conduct-full-audit-of-bitcoin-holdings-following-strategic-reserve-executive-order" rel="noreferrer noopener">organizations that aim to reform the government.</a>



Thiel&#8217;s connections, which include multiple old and new employees of his companies, have been included in the Trump administration, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bloomberg.com/features/2025-peter-thiel-trump-administration-connections/" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports </a>Bloomberg.



Thiel, who has invested in several of Elon Musk&#8217;s companies, including Boring Co., SpaceX, and Neuralink, has built a diverse empire spanning from the software company Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>)



to investment firms with stakes in leading Silicon Valley startups.



Meanwhile, Musk is a key player in the Trump administration, leading a new advisory body established by US President Donald Trump, responsible for reducing US government jobs and cutting other expenditures, Bloomberg adds.



Also Read:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44201364/peter-schiff-blasts-government-crypto-investments-as-waste-of-resources" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Peter Schiff Blasts Government Crypto Investments As &#8216;Waste of Resources&#8217;</a>



The department works under the banner of the&nbsp;Department of Government Efficiency.



According to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Pro</a>,&nbsp;Palantir&#8217;s stock has soared more than 90% since Trump was elected.



Anduril Industries, one of Thiel&#8217;s defense-tech companies, has landed a $20 billion contract from Trump. In fact, the startup&#8217;s valuation can reportedly double with a $2.5 billion funding round that Founders Fund leads. 



This week, Scale AI, another company in the Founders Fund portfolio with its managing director now serving in the Trump administration, revealed a new deal with the Department of Defense.



Although ties between industry and government have always been present, the current situation is &#8220;unprecedented in the modern era,&#8221; Quinn Slobodian, a professor of international history at Boston University, told Bloomberg.



Thiel supported Trump in 2016 but later criticized him. Before the 2024 election, Thiel said he wouldn&#8217;t donate to any candidates. However, he stated he would vote for Trump. Trump selected Thiel ally JD Vance as his vice president.



Peter Thiel and Elon Musk&#8217;s behind-the-scenes influence on the Trump administration is reshaping the very fabric of American governance. With vast investments spanning defense, technology, and government reform, these Silicon Valley titans are wielding power in ways that have never been seen before.



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PLTR

How Peter Thiel And Elon Musk Are Shaping Trump Administration

Millennium Management LLC&nbsp;has reportedly suffered a loss of approximately $900 million this year. The loss is attributed to the ongoing volatility in the global stock market, which has adversely impacted its index rebalancing strategy.



What Happened: The losses were sustained by two teams within Millennium, both of which focus on index rebalancing. The larger team, known as SRBL, is led by Glen Scheinberg, while the other team operates under the leadership of Dubai-based Pratik Madhvani.



Index rebalancing is a strategy that involves wagering on companies that are either entering or exiting various stock indexes. 



While this approach can yield substantial profits for large multimanager hedge funds like Millennium, it can also result in significant losses, particularly in times of market instability and overcrowded trades.



Jeremy Ma, a senior portfolio manager based in Hong Kong who specializes in index-rebalancing trades, has reportedly parted ways with Millennium, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-03-08/millennium-loses-900-million-on-strategy-roiled-by-market-chaos?srnd=homepage-americas&amp;sref=TBDibEcD">reports </a>Bloomberg. 



Despite the losses, the firm, which manages around $75 billion, was down less than 1% this year through February.



Why It Matters: Index rebalancing has a history of generating disappointing returns, as was the case in 2022. Over the years, the number of firms implementing this strategy has grown. 



However, the deteriorating returns have led some traders to abandon this approach. 



The recent losses incurred by Millennium Management highlight the risks associated with index rebalancing, particularly during periods of market volatility.

Millennium Management Faces $900M Loss Amid Market Volatility—What Investors Should Know

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/44031641/elon-musk-blasts-delaware-court-after-100b-pay-package-rejected-sparks-corporate-exodus-threat">Elon Musk'</a>s net worth has taken a hit this year—down by about $52 billion—but he still tops the list as the world's richest person, with a current estimate of $336 billion, according to the<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/billionaires/"> Bloomberg Billionaires Index</a>. Despite this headline-grabbing fall in personal wealth, the challenges facing Tesla are proving even more dramatic.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Riding Through Turbulence</h2>



Tesla's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) shares have experienced a sharp decline recently. Earlier this week, the stock <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/tesla-stock-slides-tuesday-as-tariffs-take-effect-bofa-drops-price-target-11690344">dropped over 4% by market close</a>, and has lost about a third since the start of the year. This downward trend has pushed the company's market capitalization below the $1 trillion mark for the first time since Nov.



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At the same time, Tesla's vehicle sales have experienced a significant setback. In Europe, where the overall electric vehicle market grew by 37% in January, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-02-25/tesla-sales-fall-45-in-europe-as-rivals-ev-registrations-soar?embedded-checkout=true">Tesla's sales plunged by 45% during the same period.</a>&nbsp;



According to <a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/02/27/nx-s1-5311609/tesla-sales-europe">National Public Radio</a>, the slump in sales isn't just a reflection of softer consumer demand—it's also driven by intense competition from Chinese automakers and a slowdown in the U.S.&nbsp;



Much of the criticism these days centers on Musk's political activities. His close association with&nbsp; President Donald Trump and his leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency have stirred considerable controversy.&nbsp;



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<a href="https://www.reuters.com/breakingviews/teslas-future-may-be-more-gm-than-omg-2025-03-04/">Reuters</a> notes that such distractions could undermine Tesla's focus on its core business. While these political maneuvers have dampened investor sentiment, analyst Adam Jonas, reinstated Tesla as his firm&#8217;s &#8220;top pick&#8221; in U.S. autos on Sunday. According to<a href="https://www.investors.com/news/tesla-stock-this-is-why-top-pick-status-is-back/"> Investor&#8217;s Business Daily</a>, Jonas emphasized Tesla&#8217;s competitive advantage in embodied AI and maintained a price target of $430, with a bull case of $800.



This points to Tesla's ambitious plans in autonomous driving and robotics, suggesting that once these projects gain traction, the company could bounce back.



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elon-musk-told-the-u-n-if-they-could-show-a-plan-for-ending-world-hunger-hed-donate-6-billion-i-will-sell-tesla-stock-right-now-and-do-it">Elon Musk Told The U.N. If They Could Show A Plan For Ending World Hunger He'd Donate $6 Billion – ‘I Will Sell Tesla Stock Right Now And Do It'</a>



Back when investors were riding high on the expectation that Musk's ties to the Trump administration would bring deregulation-friendly policies, his net worth surged to a record <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-11-22/elon-musk-s-net-worth-hits-348-billion-setting-new-wealth-record?embedded-checkout=true">$347.8 billion</a> right after the election, Bloomberg reported.&nbsp;



But recent developments—ranging from contentious job cuts to provocative public statements—appear to be causing a shift in sentiment.



Even with the volatility, there are some stable numbers amid the chaos. Over the past week, Musk's net worth dropped by $5.2 billion yet still maintains a comfortable lead of roughly $110 billion over Meta (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) CEO <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43995252/meta-boosts-executive-bonuses-to-200-as-it-slashes-5-of-workforce-laid-off-employees-call-it-unfair">Mark Zuckerberg</a>, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.



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'Unprecedented Slide': Tesla Sales Plummet 45% In Europe As Musk's Net Worth Dives $5.2B In A Week

President Donald Trump has reportedly limited the authority of his billionaire advisor, Elon Musk, to dismiss federal employees. This development has stirred skepticism among the<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44067298/what-did-you-do-last-week-part-ii-musks-doge-issues-second-email-mandate-for-executive-branch-employees"> workforce and political circles.</a>



What Happened: According to a report, Trump privately communicated to his Cabinet that they have the power over their departments, not Musk. This potential shift could mark a significant change in the Trump-Musk alliance. 



However, the federal workforce remains uncertain due to weeks of inconsistent and contradictory directives, reports <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/03/07/musk-trump-federal-workers-firing-00218733">the </a>Politico. 



David Casserly, an employee at&nbsp;the Department of Labor, voiced his skepticism, saying, &#8220;I&#8217;ll&nbsp;believe it when I see&nbsp;it.&#8221; The news of the Cabinet meeting has spurred widespread speculation about Trump&#8217;s real intentions, particularly in the face of increasing legal and political scrutiny.



Some have interpreted Trump&#8217;s comments as an attempt at &#8220;damage control&#8221; after he announced that Musk is the &#8220;head&#8221; of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) during his joint address to Congress. 



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44067638/elon-musk-claims-rival-billionaire-wants-to-destroy-trump-to-suppress-jeffrey-epstein-client-list">Elon Musk Claims Rival Billionaire Wants to &#8216;Destroy&#8217; Trump To Suppress Jeffrey Epstein Client List</a>



This statement could potentially lead to legal complications, as the White House had previously argued in court that Musk was not the DOGE leader and had no authority to make distinct policy decisions, reports the outlet. 



Despite the skepticism, Trump&#8217;s comments have ignited hope among Democratic lawmakers, who are eager to see Musk&#8217;s influence curtailed and the drastic cuts to the federal workforce reversed.



A State Department official told the outlet. "I don't think it's real. The ‘if they don't cut, Elon will' comments show who's really in charge."



Why It Matters: The recent development is a stark contrast to the earlier alliance between Trump and Musk. The move to limit Musk&#8217;s authority over federal employees could potentially alter the dynamics within the Trump administration. 



The skepticism among the workforce and political circles underscores the uncertainty surrounding this decision. The potential legal implications of Trump&#8217;s previous statements about Musk&#8217;s role in the DOGE further complicate the situation. 



As the story unfolds, the impact of this decision on the federal workforce and the political landscape remains to be seen.



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Trump vs Musk? Federal Workers Unconvinced He'll Take Action: 'If They Don't Cut, Elon will, Comments Show Who's Really In Charge'

YouTube sensation MrBeast—Jimmy Donaldson—has been quietly discussing a major <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44109824/apples-500b-u-s-investment-analyst-calls-it-completely-unrealistic-questions-where-the-money-will-come-from">funding</a> round that could peg his holding company at roughly $5 billion. According to<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-02-27/youtube-star-mrbeast-is-raising-money-at-a-5-billion-valuation"> Bloomberg</a>, his various ventures, including Feastables, Lunchly, and his video production outfit, generated over $400 million in sales last year.&nbsp;



With his channel boasting over 368 million subscribers and YouTube pulling in roughly <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/289658/youtube-global-net-advertising-revenues/#:~:text=In%202024%2C%20YouTube's%20global%20advertising,in%20the%20preceding%20fiscal%20period.">$31.5 billion in ad revenue in 2024</a>, the scale is hard to ignore.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bold Moves and Balancing Risks</h2>



MrBeast's reputation rests on creating high-impact content—from massive giveaways to jaw-dropping challenges—that continues to capture audiences worldwide.



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His ability to consistently drive hundreds of millions of views per video has propelled him to the forefront of digital media. However, as his business model grows, concerns arise about whether such broad appeal can translate into long-term profitability.



Venture capitalist Sam Lessin <a href="https://x.com/lessin/status/1833545048543375856">posted on X </a>that MrBeast's growth pattern resembles that of BuzzFeed (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BZFD#NASDAQ">BZFD</a>). Lessin pointed out that while viral content can skyrocket an audience, it doesn't always convert into a sustainable revenue stream.&nbsp;



He cautioned that if MrBeast's viewership remains too diffuse, the $5 billion figure might overstate the future earnings potential—a reminder of the pitfalls that once hit BuzzFeed.



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On another note, liquidity is a sticking point. Despite Forbes reporting that MrBeast raked in <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/stevenbertoni/2024/10/28/top-creators-2024-the-influencers-turning-buzz-into-billions/">$85 million in 2024</a>, he mentioned on the "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FjrJ2DJN_pA">Diary of a CEO podcast</a>" that his available cash is under $1 million.



Dr. James Mohs, a money and accounting professor at the University of New Haven, told <a href="https://www.marketwatch.com/story/mrbeast-claims-to-be-a-billionaire-who-has-less-than-1-million-in-cash-is-that-normal-for-the-rich-1a68eae7">MarketWatch</a> that for someone of his stature, a cash reserve of about 10% of total wealth is ideal. This revelation raises eyebrows about whether his strategy of funneling nearly all profits back into his ventures might leave little room to maneuver if market conditions sour.



Not one to rest on his laurels, MrBeast recently branched into traditional television with his show &#8220;Beast Games&#8221; on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/44049133/last-week-jeff-bezos-lost-3-9-billion-in-a-day-woke-up-3-9-billion-richer-now-its-gone">Amazon</a> Prime Video. The project, which reportedly cost him "tens of millions of dollars," marks a significant shift from online content to a more mainstream medium.&nbsp;



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Amazon (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) backed the first season with a $100 million investment. Still,<a href="https://www.reuters.com/breakingviews/mrbeast-buzz-risks-being-new-medias-old-story-2025-02-28/"> Reuters</a> reports that such massive outlays come with risks, especially if the digital-first media market experiences unexpected changes.



Another point of concern is the "key man" risk in an empire so closely tied to Donaldson&#8217;s personal brand. While he has successfully raised funds in previous rounds and explored investment opportunities, including potential bids for TikTok stakes, questions remain about the long-term sustainability of a model built on broad, viral content.



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BZFD

MrBeast Raising $200M At $5B Valuation To Expand Empire—From Feastables To Viral Videos, His Business Is Booming

Plans for a strategic reserve including Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and possibly other cryptocurrencies have been one of the hottest topics in<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44183572/trump-establishes-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-funded-by-forfeited-assets-i-made-the-promise"> the cryptocurrency sector.</a>



Benzinga polled readers to ask which cryptocurrencies the White House administration should be most focused on for the strategic reserve.



What Happened: The election of Donald Trump as president in the 2024 election sent many cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/41778425/bitcoins-all-time-high-a-groundbreaking-milestone-and-strong-post-election-rally-coming-ex">to all-time highs.</a>



Trump's new Executive Order to establish a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve will see the initial funding from Bitcoin owned by the federal government that won't be sold.



The news follows a social media post from Trump on March 2 that said a reserve <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44068814/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-rally-on-trumps-strategic-crypto-reserve-announcement-cardano-xrp-solana-skyrocket-analyst-says-btcs-new-ath-possible-later-in-the-month">could include cryptocurrencies </a>such as Bitcoin, Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>), Cardano (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ada/usd">ADA</a>) and XRP Token (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>).



Benzinga asked readers about the potential cryptocurrencies.



"Which cryptocurrency do you think the U.S. government should prioritize in its digital strategy?" Benzinga asked.



Here are the results:



<ul>
<li>Bitcoin: 62%</li>



<li>Ethereum: 18%</li>



<li>XRP Token: 16%</li>



<li>Solana: 5%</li>



<li>Cardano: 0%</li>
</ul>



The poll found the majority of readers think Bitcoin should be the priority of any digital asset strategy. Ranking second was a close battle between Ethereum and XRP Token. Solana and Cardano ranked a distant fourth and fifth with Cardano receiving no votes in the poll.



Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44189645/strategic-bitcoin-reserve-cements-digital-gold-narrative-advocates-point-out">Strategic Bitcoin Reserve Cements &#8216;Digital Gold&#8217; Narrative, Advocates Point Out</a>



Why It's Important: Trump has signaled Bitcoin will be the focus of the fund while investors are now left guessing or waiting to hear if other cryptocurrencies will be added to the strategic reserve.



The cryptocurrency community has been mixed on the inclusion of other assets with some questioning why XRP Token or Cardano would be held over Ethereum and other top assets.



Before the&nbsp;strategic crypto reserve&nbsp;was announced by Trump with possible cryptocurrency choices, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44155576/bitcoin-ethereum-solana-stablecoins-or-no-crypto-in-2025-heres-what-readers-choose">Benzinga polled readers</a> asking about 2025.



&#8220;Which crypto asset are you most likely to invest in during 2025?&#8221; Benzinga asked.



The results were:



<ul>
<li>None, I&#8217;m staying away: 43%</li>



<li>Bitcoin: 35%</li>



<li>Ethereum: 10%</li>



<li>Solana: 10%</li>



<li>Stablecoins: 3%</li>
</ul>



The leading vote-getter in the poll was people staying away from cryptocurrency, receiving nearly half of the vote. Of the four cryptocurrency options including stablecoins, Bitcoin was the leading vote-getter with 35% of the vote.



Ethereum and Solana each got 10% of the vote with stablecoins ranking last at 3%.



The poll shows that when it comes to investing in cryptocurrency in 2025, investors are either staying away or likely buying Bitcoin.



Read Next: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44194484/congressman-on-digital-assets-subcommittee-buys-bitcoin-etf-before-trumps-strategic-reserve-announcement">Congressman On Digital Assets Subcommittee Buys Bitcoin ETF Before Trump&#8217;s Strategic Reserve Announcement</a></li>
</ul>



The study was conducted by Benzinga from March 6, 2025, through March 7, 2025. It included the responses of a diverse population of adults 18 or older. Opting into the survey was completely voluntary, with no incentives offered to potential respondents. The study reflects results from 103 adults.



Photo: Shutterstock AI

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Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, XRP Or Cardano: Readers Rank The Order Of Importance For Trump's Crypto Reserve

Billionaire investor Ray Dalio doesn't do baseless fearmongering. When he speaks, people listen—because he's spent decades successfully predicting economic shifts, financial crises, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/02/43969651/billionaire-ray-dalio-says-ai-risks-totalitarian-control-or-anarchy-as-it-could-reshape-world-in-next-5-years-here-is-a-list-of-ai-linked-etfs-for-investors-to-consider">and global power shifts</a>. And his latest warning? The U.S. may have crossed a line where political and social conflicts are no longer solvable through discussion.



"We are probably past the point of being able to resolve that by compromise and empathy and all of that," Dalio said during his appearance on <a href="https://youtu.be/0j1gcGD5DrA?si=dJGMa8bNax0Xfm3j">Tucker Carlson's show last month</a>.



Don't Miss:



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<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>



<li>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">your last chance to become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a></li>
</ul>



This isn't just a passing comment. Dalio is saying that the nation's internal divisions are now so severe that traditional resolutions—like bipartisan cooperation and civil discourse—are no longer viable. His words paint a bleak picture of a country that may be on an irreversible path toward deeper turmoil.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dalio's Track Record: Why His Warnings Matter</h2>



Dalio isn't some doomsday prophet making wild predictions. He's the founder of Bridgewater Associates, the world's largest hedge fund, which has managed over $170 billion in assets. He called the 2008 financial crisis before it happened and has been studying economic cycles for decades. His <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43901059/ray-dalios-holy-grail-investment-strategy-why-10-15-diversified-investments-could-make-you-a-fortune">expertise isn't just in markets</a>—it's in understanding global systems, historical trends, and human behavior.



So when he says the U.S. is facing a crisis beyond repair, it's not a random hot take. It's based on patterns he's seen throughout history—and he believes the warning signs are flashing bright red.



Trending: 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>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A ‘Civil War' of Values and Wealth</h2>



Carlson pressed Dalio to elaborate on his claim that the U.S. is in a civil war, noting that "most Americans don't perceive that." Dalio clarified that while it's not a traditional civil war, it is a "type of civil war" driven by "irreconcilable differences."



"What I mean is that there are irreconcilable differences that each side is willing to fight for in order to get the outcomes that they want," he explained.



The division, in his view, isn't just about politics. It's a combination of economic disparity, clashing values, and growing distrust in institutions.



<ul>
<li>The wealth gap is exploding. The rich are getting richer, while 60% of Americans struggle with below a sixth-grade reading level—making it even harder for them to adapt to a rapidly changing job market.</li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Political polarization is at historic levels. Dalio cited data showing that the gap between conservative and liberal votes in Congress is the largest since 1900 and that the number of votes crossing party lines is the lowest in over a century.</li>



<li>People no longer trust the system. "Does the legal system stand in the way of that fight? Or is there going to be a fight that will make the cause more important than anything?" Dalio asked.</li>
</ul>



His conclusion? The U.S. is no longer functioning as a unified nation.



See Also: 



<ul>
<li>The $1.3 Billion Startup Investment Boom:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/startengine-own"> How This Company's Explosive Growth Is Opening Doors For Everyday Investors With A New $500 Minimum</a></li>



<li>It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $250 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>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Nation on the Brink of Fragmentation</h2>



Dalio doesn't believe this division will magically heal itself. Instead, he predicts that the U.S. will break apart even further.



"I think we're going to more fragmentation," he said, suggesting that different states will become increasingly isolated from one another, operating <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/02/43756938/ray-dalio-warns-of-looming-us-debt-crisis-says-america-faces-economic-heart-attack-without-fiscal-cuts">under vastly different rules</a> and priorities.



This isn't just speculation. He said we're already seeing it play out:



<ul>
<li>Sanctuary city policies have created deep rifts between federal and state governments over immigration enforcement.</li>



<li>States like California and Texas are essentially operating as their own economic powerhouses with drastically different approaches to governance.</li>



<li>Legal battles over Supreme Court decisions continue to erode public confidence in the justice system.</li>
</ul>



Dalio argues that historically, these types of divisions do not end peacefully. He points out that conflict—whether social, political, or even violent—is the usual outcome when societies reach this level of polarization.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can Anything Stop This?</h2>



When Carlson pressed Dalio on potential solutions, he didn't offer much optimism.



"The only thing that can be done is to have the fear of that create a necessity for having another path," he said.



In other words, unless Americans truly grasp how bad things could get, they won't be motivated to fix it. The problem? He doesn't believe that's happening fast enough.



Dalio compared today's crisis to past historical cycles where nations ignored warning signs until it was too late. He doesn't see any serious efforts to bridge the divide—and that's what worries him most.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Final Thoughts: A Warning We Can't Ignore</h2>



Dalio has built his career on spotting trends before they become crises. His latest warning isn't just about politics—it's about the fundamental breakdown of cooperation, economic stability, and national unity.



If he's right, the U.S. isn't just in a rough patch. It may be on an irreversible course toward fragmentation and conflict.



Read Next:



<ul>
<li>The average 401(k) balance soars to a record-breaking high – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mark-cubans-advice-for-lotto-winners"></a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/average-401k-balances-soars-to-record-high">Here's how to know if your nest egg is keeping pace.</a></li>



<li>If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?</li>
</ul>

Personal Finance

'Probably Past the Point of Compromise and Empathy' — Billionaire Investor Ray Dalio Tells Tucker Carlson We're Already In A 'Civil War'

If you were hoping corporations would take one for the team and absorb the cost of new tariffs, financial expert Dave Ramsey has some bad news: They won't.



With President Donald Trump's latest <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44092335/trumps-tariffs-threaten-canada-mexico-china-and-american-wallets">executive order on tariffs</a> stirring up controversy, consumers are left wondering what it means for their wallets. The plan? Pressure trade partners and boost U.S. manufacturing. The reality? Well, let's just say Walmart isn't in the habit of handing out charity discounts.



When Brianna from Washington, D.C., called into <a href="https://youtu.be/5-an7POj7mA?si=gyQundAuqPyAeo77">The Dave Ramsey Show</a> with the million-dollar question—"How will Trump's new tariffs affect me personally?" co-host Ken Coleman didn't dance around it.



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<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>



<li>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">this is your last chance to become an investor for $0.80 per share today.</a></li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Prices Will Go Up. No Question.</h2>



"Tariffs will affect us, there's no question… Even President Trump has said, and I quote, that prices will go up," Coleman explained.



It's Economics 101: when the government slaps a tax on imported goods, businesses pass that cost straight to the consumer. Coleman put it bluntly: "I have never seen companies not pass on increased costs to consumers."



Still, he acknowledged the long-term effects are uncertain: "It's too soon to tell" how it'll all shake out.



Trending: 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>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ramsey's Take: Not So Fast.</h2>



Ramsey agreed that prices will rise, but he wasn't convinced the situation was as dire as some might think. He pointed to existing trade policies—like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44067456/ive-got-a-friend-building-a-house-in-cabo-dave-ramsey-tries-to-explain-trumps-tariffs-but-people-say-hes-out-of-touch-and-wrong">Mexico's long-standing 33% tax</a> on U.S. goods—as proof that tariffs aren't necessarily economic doomsday.



"If you're an American company wanting to sell things in Mexico, you face a 33% upcharge today. That's been in place for years. Did it crash either economy? No. Did it slow down business in Mexico? Yes. That's the net effect," he said.



And while Americans will undoubtedly feel the squeeze, Ramsey noted that other countries might have more to worry about: "Canadians are very, very afraid of what it's going to do to them. It's much more damaging to them."



That said, he wasn't about to let consumers off the hook:



"You will pay more. No question about it. 100%. Companies do not eat taxes," Ramsey stated.



To drive the point home, he laid it out in everyday terms:



"Corporate taxes are built into the price of the item you buy from Walmart. Walmart does not pay taxes. You pay taxes when you buy potato chips at Walmart. You pay all their taxes for them. It's built into the price. They don't work for nothing."



See Also: 



<ul>
<li>The $1.3 Billion Startup Investment Boom:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/startengine-own"> How This Company's Explosive Growth Is Opening Doors For Everyday Investors With A New $500 Minimum</a></li>



<li>It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $250 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>
</ul>



Coleman's Optimism: Tax Cuts Could Change the Game.



Coleman, however, argued there's another factor at play—tax cuts and deregulation.



"If the president extends his tax cuts, that will help the American consumer," he said. "The second thing I think he'll do is cut regulations on American businesses, and that also offsets tariffs."



Translation? If Trump plays his cards right, "You won't feel it." And Coleman is betting that's exactly what will happen.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ramsey's Prediction: This Is a Negotiation Tactic.</h2>



Ramsey had a different theory. In his view, these tariffs are less about long-term policy and more about leverage.



"It already appears as though none of this is going to happen with Canada and Mexico. That's my opinion. But it may require that Mexico and Canada start treating American goods the way we treat theirs," he said.



He compared Trump's tactics to a street brawl: "I think Trump threw a grenade in the middle of it to get some other stuff. He's a New York street fighter, and that's how he negotiates."



Instead, Ramsey predicted countries like Vietnam—where trade imbalances are significant—would be the real targets of tariffs, while Mexico and Canada will likely reach a deal.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Should You Worry? Ramsey Says No.</h2>



For those worried about rising costs, Ramsey had one simple piece of advice: don't panic.



"<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Debt-free people</a> aren't worried about inflation. And they're not picking up goods in their house going, ‘Wait a minute, was this made in Canada?'"



As for all the economic doom-and-gloom?



"Most of what's on the news is malarkey."



Bottom line: If tariffs take effect, prices will rise. But Coleman believes tax cuts will offset the pain, and Ramsey thinks the tariffs on Canada and Mexico might not even happen. Either way, don't expect corporations to take the hit—it's coming straight to your receipt.



Read Next:



<ul>
<li>The average 401(k) balance soars to a record-breaking high – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mark-cubans-advice-for-lotto-winners"></a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/average-401k-balances-soars-to-record-high">Here's how to know if your nest egg is keeping pace.</a></li>



<li>If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?</li>
</ul>

Dave Ramsey Says 'No Question' Tariffs Will '100%' Raise Prices — 'Walmart Doesn't Pay Taxes. You Pay Taxes When You Buy Potato Chips At Walmart'

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