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On his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/04/45069781/trumps-first-100-days-what-he-delivered-where-he-fell-short-how-markets-reacted">100th day in office</a> during his second term, President Donald Trump returned to a familiar setting — a rally stage in Michigan — to energize supporters, defend his policies, and lash out at critics as Democrats prepared a coordinated protest in the Senate.
What Happened: On Tuesday, before a crowd in the battleground state he flipped in 2024, Trump touted his administration's economic record, declaring, "We've already ended inflation," and vowed further spending cuts to boost growth, <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/04/29/trump-presidency-news-100-days/">reported</a> The Washington Post.
"We will cut more than $1 trillion in wasteful and unnecessary spending," he stated, adding, "We will end inflation, slash prices — we've already ended inflation — raise wages and give you the greatest economy in the history of the world."
In a speech that echoed his campaign rallies, Trump <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42980742/trump-off-hook-in-2020-election-case-special-counsel-smith-says-evidence-was-sufficient-to-obtain-and-sustain-a-conviction">repeated false claims</a> about the 2020 election and accused Democrats of trying to influence the 2024 outcome. "That's their single greatest trait," Trump said, the report noted.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44999959/how-the-us-china-trade-war-is-unintentionally-boosting-demand-for-intels-older-chips-amid-economic-uncertainty" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Intel's Older Parts Are In Demand Thanks To US-China Trade War: ‘Tariffs Have Everybody Hedging Their Bets,' Says Executive</a>
The president also defended his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/04/44891977/pete-hegseth-shared-yemen-strike-details-in-another-signal-group-chat-this-time-with-his-wife-brother-and-personal-lawyer-report">embattled defense secretary</a>, Pete Hegseth, calling him a "tough cookie."
He also said <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/25/04/45064937/donald-trump-threatens-to-veto-any-gop-bill-that-touches-medicaid-or-social-security-if-it-cuts-it-i-would-not-approve">Republicans will defend Medicaid</a>. "We will always protect Medicare and Social Security for our great seniors with no cuts, and we will defend Medicaid for those great people that are in need,"
Trump said, despite criticism from Democrats and analysts who argue his budget plan would force cuts.
The President also saved some of his sharpest criticism for Democratic figures, including Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/23/09/34249216/trump-goes-all-in-on-his-nickname-for-biden-sleepy-joe-becomes-crooked-joe-says-indicted-former-">mocked former President</a> Joe Biden, polling the crowd on whether to call him "Sleepy Joe" or "Crooked Joe," the report said.
Meanwhile, Democratic senators intend to spend hours on the Senate floor Tuesday evening criticizing Trump's first 100 days in office, the report added.
Why It's Important: Trump has completed 100 days of his second term, with mixed progress on key 2024 campaign promises.
He's largely delivered on immigration <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/45032435/trump-tariffs-prompt-suspension-of-chinese-factory-operations-and-shift-to-new-markets">and tariffs</a>, imposing a 10% import tax and targeting trade imbalances. Gas prices are down, but grocery costs have risen due to tariffs.
His vow to end the Ukraine war <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44888482/trump-set-ultimatum-for-russia-ukraine-peace-talks-not-going-to-continue-with-this-endeavour-for-weeks-and-months-says-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio">remains unmet</a>, though diplomatic efforts are underway.
Trump also signed an executive order banning transgender athletes from women's sports and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43088148/trump-pardons-1500-jan-6-defendants-including-key-proud-boys-figures-after-bidens-final-hour-clemency">pardoned over 1,500 people</a>, including Jan. 6 defendants.
Economic pledges like tax cuts on tips and overtime remain unfulfilled. The Associated Press rates four promises as kept, 15 in progress, and five as "complicated."
Photo Courtesy: Rawpixel.com 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.

Government

News

Media

Trump Says He's 'Already Ended Inflation' At Michigan Rally Held To Mark 100 Days In Office, Promises To Protect Medicare And Social Security — Democrats Plan Senate Barrage

Former Vice President Mike Pence published a pointed op-ed in The Wall Street Journal on Tuesday, grading President Donald Trump's first 100 days of his second term and warning against a departure from the conservative principles that defined their previous administration. 
What Happened: Pence credited Trump with a "political comeback unrivaled in modern American history," highlighting early wins such as cutting illegal immigration by over 90% at the southern border and restoring American strength abroad, particularly in the Middle East. However, Pence cautioned in the <a href="https://www.wsj.com/opinion/what-the-47th-president-can-learn-from-the-45th-trump-second-term-policy-ea1bf83e">op-ed</a> that these "hard-won and overdue" gains could be lost if the administration strays from its original playbook.
The former Vice President praised Trump's decisive actions, stating, "No new laws. Just a president with the backbone to do his job and keep America safe." He also lauded the administration's military investments and tough stance on universities tolerating antisemitism. Yet, Pence sounded alarms over what he called "troubling signs of retreat," especially regarding wavering support for Ukraine and renewed negotiations with Iran, warning, "Only renewed American military support for our close partner provides any hope for a just and lasting peace."
On the economic front, Pence criticized Trump's sweeping tariffs as "the largest peacetime tax hike in American history," arguing they threaten to derail economic recovery: "Since the president announced his ‘Liberation Day' tariffs, the only thing America has been liberated from is trillions of dollars in investments." He called for the extension of all Trump-Pence tax cuts, warning that failure to do so "would amount to the largest middle-class tax hike in modern history, costing millions of American jobs."
Pence summed up his message with a stark reminder: "A strong first 100 days is a foundation. But only a return to the conservative principles that guided our administration and achieved peace and prosperity during the president's first term will ensure that this administration builds something lasting-for the president's legacy, and for America's future."
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/45061180/trump-orders-english-only-rule-for-truck-drivers-this-is-common-sense-says-white-house-wit" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Orders English-Only Rule For Truck Drivers: &#8216;This Is Common Sense,&#8217; Says White House, With Enforcement And Penalties Set Within 60 Days</a>
Why It Matters: In a recent <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/45047432/trump-says-i-run-the-country-and-the-world-yet-polls-plummet">interview with The Atlantic</a>, Trump claimed, &#8220;I run the country and the world,&#8221; yet his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/45047432/trump-says-i-run-the-country-and-the-world-yet-polls-plummet">approval ratings have seen a decline</a>. The first 100 days of his second term have been marked by both achievements and controversies, impacting his public perception.
Pence has previously criticized Trump&#8217;s tariff policies, calling them a &#8220;misstep&#8221; that could harm working families economically. Pence warned that these tariffs, particularly the 125% on China, could become a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44728777/pence-calls-trumps-tariff-moves-misstep-cites-potential-economic-harm-to-working-families">major political issue for Republicans</a> in the upcoming midterm elections. He noted that the tariffs could be seen as &#8220;the largest peacetime tax hike in American history&#8221; if not adjusted.
In terms of market performance, Trump&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/25/04/45069781/trumps-first-100-days-what-he-delivered-where-he-fell-short-how-markets-reacted">first 100 days</a> have had mixed reactions from the stock market. While some sectors have benefited from his policies, others have faced challenges due to the economic uncertainties brought by the tariffs and international tensions.
Photo Courtesy: Gino Santa Maria On Shutterstock.com
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

Politics

General

Mike Pence Says Trump Comeback 'Unrivaled' In Modern American History But Only Return To Values Of First Term Will Ensure President's Legacy

Kevin O&#8217;Leary is being brutally honest when it comes to China and its impact on American businesses. The &#8220;Shark Tank&#8221; investor and chair of O&#8217;Leary Ventures recently spoke out on social media and MSNBC, slamming China&#8217;s track record since joining the World Trade Organization in 2000.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8220;They Never, Ever Complied&#8221;</h2>
According to O&#8217;Leary, the original plan to bring China into the WTO was based on the hope that exposure to democracy and fair trade practices would influence the country.&nbsp;
&#8220;I think it was Clinton&#8217;s administration, 2000, when he said, look, the way to win over China is to give them a taste of democracy on a worldwide basis,&#8221; O&#8217;Leary said in a video <a href="https://x.com/kevinolearytv/status/1915529242860830727">posted</a> on social media. &#8220;Let&#8217;s invite them into the World Trade Organization if they&#8217;re willing to abide by the covenants of all the other nations.&#8221;
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But O&#8217;Leary said China never followed through. &#8220;They never, ever complied to a single covenant. Not the first week, not the 20th year,&#8221; he said. Grievances have piled up within the WTO and have never been resolved, he added.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Knockoffs Flood the Market</h2>
O&#8217;Leary shared a real-world example to show how U.S. businesses suffer. He pointed to a simple, patented product called &#8220;DrainWig.&#8221; As soon as it approached $5 million in sales, &#8220;boom,&#8221; knockoffs appeared everywhere, he said. &#8220;They didn&#8217;t have to spend any money in R&amp;D or any legal fees for patenting it,&#8221; O&#8217;Leary explained.
&#8220;I&#8217;ve come to the conclusion they don&#8217;t even care,&#8221; he said. &#8220;And the reason they don&#8217;t care is there&#8217;s never any consequence.&#8221;
Trending: Donald Trump Just Announced a $500 Billion AI Infrastructure Deal — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/seize-a-share-while-you-still-can-in-the-2-trillion-entertainment-market-with-elf-labs-at-just-2-25-share">Here's How You Can Invest in the Entertainment Market's Next Big Disruptor for Just $998</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Backing Trump&#8217;s Trade Policies</h2>
During his <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztWvIPUxT0s">MSNBC</a> appearance, O&#8217;Leary stood firmly behind Donald Trump&#8217;s tariff strategies, arguing that they&#8217;re long overdue. While critics like economist Paul Krugman and investor Bill Ackman have called the trade war risky, O&#8217;Leary said it&#8217;s the only way to get China to take the U.S. seriously.
&#8220;This is a game of chicken right now,&#8221; he said, as <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44902888/kevin-oleary-says-chinas-actions-have-wiped-out-millions-of-american-companies-i-dont-know-why-anyone-is-okay-with-it">higher tariffs are necessary</a> to bring China to the negotiating table.
O&#8217;Leary emphasized that he supports policy, not politicians. &#8220;There are millions of American companies wiped out by what China does,&#8221; he said. &#8220;I don&#8217;t know why you&#8217;re okay with it. You shouldn&#8217;t be.&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Small Businesses Hit the Hardest</h2>
O&#8217;Leary pointed out that small businesses are the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/08/40284639/kevin-oleary-declares-i-am-not-ashamed-of-capitalism-agrees-theres-anti-elitism-and-applauds-musk-on">backbone of the U.S. economy</a>, creating 62% of American jobs. &#8220;I&#8217;m just speaking on behalf of every small entrepreneur in America, and I think I have my army behind me,&#8221; he said.
Despite his frustrations, O&#8217;Leary said he remains open to doing business with China, but only if fair play is enforced. &#8220;We want to form some kind of a union that&#8217;s not so antagonistic. But you can&#8217;t cheat, you can&#8217;t steal,&#8221; he said.
Looking ahead, O&#8217;Leary is hopeful that new trade policies will start showing results soon. &#8220;Give it a few weeks,&#8221; he said. &#8220;I think we&#8217;re going to get something worked out here. Xi is also in a bad place.&#8221;
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Image: Shutterstock

'Boom—Knockoffs Flood The Market,' Says Kevin O'Leary About Inviting China Into The WTO Thinking They'd Play Fair—'They Never Did'

Elon Musk last month appeared on the <a href="https://youtu.be/BDREZmpkIz8?si=OrWW63POKaHORcJN">"Verdict with Ted Cruz" podcast</a>, where the Texas senator threw him a rare question: Who's the smartest guy you've ever met?
Musk didn't hesitate. He named two heavyweights — Larry Ellison and Larry Page — both billionaires, both tech legends, and at one point, both close friends of Musk.
"Larry Ellison's very smart," Musk said. "I will say Larry Ellison is one of the smartest people."
He added, "You know, Larry Page… there are a lot of people that are very smart."
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He didn't stop there. Musk also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/04/44992374/elon-musk-is-122-billion-poorer-in-2025-and-still-richer-than-bezos-huang-cuban-combined">tipped his hat to Jeff Bezos</a>, acknowledging that Bezos had accomplished "a lot of difficult and significant things" — even if their rivalry over space has stretched on for more than two decades.
But when it came to Ellison and Page, Musk had more personal history.
Ellison wasn't just impressed by Musk from afar. In 2018, when Tesla was battling lawsuits and controversy over Musk's "funding secured" tweet about taking the company private, Ellison stepped in. He bought a $1 billion stake in Tesla, joined the company's board, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41185303/elon-musk-says-larry-ellison-is-awesome-after-oracle-ctos-old-video-praising-tesla-ceo-resurfaces">publicly backed Musk</a>, calling Tesla an "amazing company" and describing Musk as a "very close friend."
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At a time when investors were running for cover, Ellison was standing next to him.
Page's relationship with Musk ran even deeper — and ultimately more complicated.
Musk and Page once shared an easy friendship, spending long nights talking about humanity's future, space colonization, and artificial intelligence. Musk said he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/03/37923084/elon-musk-used-to-email-ex-google-ceo-larry-page-when-he-was-kind-of-homeless-and-ask-can-i-come">would even stay at Page's house</a> while visiting Silicon Valley.
But the friendship cracked. Musk believed AI development needed strict oversight; Page, according to Musk, was "cavalier" about the risks. The philosophical divide led Musk to help launch OpenAI as a nonprofit competitor to Google's DeepMind, and the two friends drifted apart.
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Still, before things soured, Page made it clear just how much faith he had in Musk.
In a 2014 <a href="https://blog.ted.com/computing-is-still-too-clunky-charlie-rose-and-larry-page-in-conversation/">TED interview with Charlie Rose</a>, Page said: "If I were to get hit by a bus today, I should leave all of it to Elon Musk."
Page argued that Musk's mission to "<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42154628/larry-page-google-co-founder-said-hed-leave-his-fortune-to-elon-musk-over-charity-because-of-his-plans-to-go-to-mars-to-back-up-humanity">back up humanity" by building a future on Mars</a> was a better bet than funneling billions into traditional charities.
Musk's answer wasn't about old alliances or loyalty. It showed that even after friendships cracked, companies competed, and philosophies clashed, he could still recognize brilliance when he saw it — and wasn't afraid to applaud it, even from a distance.
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Personal Finance

Elon Musk Was Asked 'Who's the Smartest Guy You've Ever Met?' He Picked Two CEOs, Both Named Larry — And One Even Said He'd Leave Him His Fortune

IDEXX Laboratories (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IDXX#NASDAQ">IDXX</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 11.03% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 21.28%. Currently, IDEXX Laboratories has a market capitalization of $35.41 billion. 
Buying $100 In IDXX: If an investor had bought $100 of IDXX stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $669.58 today based on a price of $436.97 for IDXX at the time of writing.
<h3>IDEXX Laboratories's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745970316_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Trading Ideas

IDXX

Here's How Much $100 Invested In IDEXX Laboratories 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

American Express (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>) is riding high — and so are its richest customers.
While warnings of a tariff-fueled recession swirl and some Americans are pulling back on spending, AmEx says its most affluent cardholders are still dropping cash on the finer things — especially dining out, which CFO Christophe Le Caillec last week called "the ultimate discretionary expense."
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In Q1, billed business on AmEx cards jumped 7.5% year over year, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/04/44862333/american-express-q1-card-spending-strong-ceo-maintains-annual-outlook-contingent-on-economic-climate">helping push revenue to $17 billion, an 8% increase</a>. That's better than Wall Street expected — and according to CEO Stephen Squeri, it's largely thanks to confident spending from the top tier.
Restaurant and hotel spending stayed strong, while airline spending cooled slightly. But it's not just older cardholders footing the bill anymore. The real surge came from younger Americans: 60% of AmEx's 3.4 million new cardholders last quarter were Gen Z and millennials. Those groups also spent 14% more compared to last year — compared to just a 1% increase from boomers.
AmEx is leaning into that shift. Squeri said younger customers are flocking to the card for its lifestyle perks, like restaurant credits and access to premium dining through acquisitions like Resy and Tock. He even dubbed the revamped Gold Card "the Restaurant Card."
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And despite rising economic uncertainty, AmEx isn't pulling back. Squeri said the company sees no reason to yank its full-year forecast of 8–10% revenue growth. "It's probably easy to pull guidance," <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/american-express-ceo-aprils-stock-market-volatility-hasnt-sent-customers-into-their-bunkers-122606716.html">he told Yahoo Finance</a>, "but what are you going to pull if you know you're still within your guidance range?"
"There's a lot of stability and strength, despite the news and the environment," <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/17/american-express-cardholders-still-spending-despite-trump-tariffs.html">Le Caillec explained to CNBC.</a>
That confidence sets AmEx apart from other companies, including JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) and major retailers, that are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/04/44717888/jpmorgan-jamie-dimon-warns-recession-now-likely-outcome">warning of a slowdown</a> and ditching forecasts due to tariff chaos and market whiplash. Meanwhile, Le Caillec said that while some small businesses may be stockpiling inventory ahead of potential price hikes, AmEx's core spending levels don't appear artificially inflated.
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The rich are still swiping, but what about everyone else?&nbsp;
Beyond the platinum perks and premium cardholders, the broader economy is flashing warning signs. U.S. small business confidence dropped sharply in March, with only 21% of owners expecting better conditions ahead—the lowest since October 2024, according to the <a href="https://www.nfib.com/news/analysis/small-business-optimism-slips-in-march-research/">National Federation of Independent Business</a>.&nbsp;
Sales expectations also fell to their lowest point since before the 2024 election. Meanwhile, consumers across income levels are tightening their belts. A <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/the-state-of-the-us-consumer">McKinsey survey</a> found that 75% of Americans reported trading down in categories like groceries and apparel, and many are delaying non-essential purchases amid inflation concerns.&nbsp;
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American Express Says the Rich Are Still Dining Out and Living Large — While Everyone Else Braces for Recession, Tariffs, and Skyrocketing Prices

Ares Management (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARES#NYSE">ARES</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 13.19% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 23.44%. Currently, Ares Management has a market capitalization of $33.73 billion. 
Buying $100 In ARES: If an investor had bought $100 of ARES stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $826.34 today based on a price of $154.38 for ARES at the time of writing.
<h3>Ares Management's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745969413_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

ARES

Here's How Much $100 Invested In Ares Management 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

Aflac (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AFL#NYSE">AFL</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 10.54% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 24.89%. Currently, Aflac has a market capitalization of $59.69 billion. 
Buying $1000 In AFL: If an investor had bought $1000 of AFL stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $2,965.59 today based on a price of $109.20 for AFL at the time of writing.
<h3>Aflac's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745968512_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Here's How Much You Would Have Made Owning Aflac Stock In The Last 5 Years

Caterpillar (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CAT#NYSE">CAT</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 3.2% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 13.45%. Currently, Caterpillar has a market capitalization of $148.40 billion. 
Buying $1000 In CAT: If an investor had bought $1000 of CAT stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $3,521.19 today based on a price of $307.36 for CAT at the time of writing.
<h3>Caterpillar's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745967612_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$1000 Invested In Caterpillar 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

S&amp;P Global (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPGI#NYSE">SPGI</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 6.45% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 16.7%. Currently, S&amp;P Global has a market capitalization of $150.81 billion. 
Buying $100 In SPGI: If an investor had bought $100 of SPGI stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $465.11 today based on a price of $491.76 for SPGI at the time of writing.
<h3>S&amp;P Global's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745966713_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

SPGI

If You Invested $100 In This Stock 10 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

In a country wrestling with rising crime rates, viral videos of smash-and-grab robberies, and heated debates about bail reform, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44940401/elon-musk-says-hell-only-spend-day-or-two-per-week-on-government-matters-to-ensure-fraud-does-not-come-roaring-back-ceos-focus-to-shift-to-tesla-beginning-may">Elon Musk</a> says the conversation has gone dangerously off track.
A few months ago, Musk sat down with Tucker Carlson earlier this year to talk about what he sees as one of America's growing blind spots: misplaced empathy.
"What I see is what I call shallow empathy," Musk said. "People have empathy for the criminals but not empathy for the victims of the criminals."
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Musk wasn't talking about hypothetical issues. He pointed to a hard reality: a small slice of society — "a few percent," as he put it — struggle with severe anger problems or "enjoy hurting other people." Without serious consequences, he warned, they don't just stop.
"If you do not incarcerate them," Musk said, "they will hurt other people."
Rather than asking what makes politicians or activists feel good about themselves, Musk argued society needs a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/04/44973207/elon-musks-critics-on-x-see-sudden-drop-in-visibility-raising-questions-about-platforms-free-speech-commitments">harder conversation about the greater good</a>. "I believe one should have deep empathy and ask, what is the greater good for society?" he said. "Is it better to incarcerate violent criminals and prevent them from hurting people, or to let them loose and allow those people to be hurt? I think the latter is much worse."
Trending: 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>
Musk's frustration taps into a <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/11/06/us-news/progressive-los-angeles-da-george-gascon-voted-out/">broader national debate</a>. In cities like Los Angeles, efforts to soften criminal sentencing have triggered public backlash. District Attorney George Gascón, criticized for scaling back prosecutions and sentencing enhancements, faced a tough reelection fight against Nathan Hochman, who promised to bring back stricter penalties in the name of protecting victims.&nbsp;
Carlson agreed with Musk, pointing out that modern thinking seems more concerned with showing compassion toward criminals than with protecting victims.
But Musk wasn't finished. He tied the same kind of shallow decision-making to a wider frustration: the suffocation of innovation in America.
Citing endless regulations, ballooning bureaucracy, and the rise of consultants who profit without building anything, Musk compared the situation to an "Atlas Shrugged" scenario, where true creators are buried under a mountain of red tape.
"I build cars, I build rockets, I build satellite internet," Musk said. "I can't put myself in the mindset of someone who wants to do crime. I don't want to hurt people."
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>
Musk blamed part of the problem on people growing up in "<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44598039/elon-musk-says-were-living-in-the-best-time-and-if-you-disagree-you-probably-should-read-a-history-book-when-else-would-you-want-to-be-alive">safe, sheltered environments</a>," unable to grasp the harsh realities of violence because they've never seen it up close. Well-meaning but naive, they design policies with good intentions — but innocent people pay the price.
His message cuts deeper than crime statistics: in a society built on shallow empathy, the real victims aren't just forgotten — they're sacrificed.
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Image: Shutterstock

Elon Musk Says 'Shallow Empathy' Is Making Society Worse — Asks If It's Better To Jail Criminals or Let Them Keep Hurting Innocent People

ASM International (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASMIY#OTC">ASMIY</a>) .

Guidance

ASMIY

ASM International Q2 2025 sales to increase +1% to +6% compared to Q1 at constant currencies.

ASM International (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASMIY#OTC">ASMIY</a>) expects Sales in FY 2025 to grow by a double-digit percentage range of a 10-20% year on year. &nbsp;

ASM International expects Sales in FY 2025 to grow by a double-digit percentage range of a 10-20% year on year.

A space flight that included Katy Perry and Jeff Bezos' fiancée Lauren Sánchez generated plenty of headlines about their short 11-minute flight and the point of the mission, while it made history for having<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/02/44019974/katy-perry-gayle-king-lauren-sanchez-headline-next-blue-origin-space-flight-how-jeff-bezos-fiancee-crew-will-make-history"> all women aboard.</a>
The company behind the space flight is now taking reservations and deposits for the "new generation of astronauts."
What Happened: Perry, Sánchez and several other women were the latest to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/04/44786258/katy-perry-lauren-sanchez-among-blue-origins-all-women-ns-31-crew-set-to-take-flight-in-west-texas"> take a trip to space</a> aboard the Blue Origin New Shepard, a space flight company founded by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
A <a href="https://x.com/blueorigin/status/1916928601485701442">tweet </a>on X is encouraging those interested in seeing Earth "like never before" to book their trip to space on the New Shepard.
"Return to Earth, Forever Changed," the Blue Origin <a href="https://www.blueorigin.com/new-shepard/fly?utm_campaign=NS_sales_fly_social_campaign&amp;utm_source=partner&amp;utm_medium=social+&amp;utm_content=social_ad">website </a>says.
While in the New Shepard, astronauts soar above the Kármán Line and fly at more than three times the speed of sound. The passing of the Kármán line, the internationally recognized boundary of space 62 miles (100 km) above Earth, is unique as rival space flight company Virgin Galactic (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPCE#NYSE">SPCE</a>) does not take its astronauts to this line.
Blue Origin completed its first human flights in 2021 and has now completed 11 human space flights, including the latest all-women venture.
Among the bigger names to fly to space with Blue Origin along with pop singer Perry include Bezos himself, William Shatner, Michael Strahan and Dude Perfect's Coby Cotton.
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Why It's Important: Blue Origin reservations are open to anyone 18 years or older by filling out some information, including a description of yourself in less than 500 characters.
The one missing detail in the reservation is the total price involved for an unforgettable "Window seat" to space. The reservation form says a $150,000 fully, refundable deposit is collected by Blue Origin after booking a reservation.
This means the space flight with Blue Origin is more than $150,000. Virgin Galactic, which is currently in a pause of taking humans to space, has charged between $200,000 to $450,000 per person for past space flights.
Virgin Galactic is expected to begin taking people to space again in 2026 as long as it passes required tests and its plan stays on track. Previous<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/21/07/21945008/spacex-ceo-elon-musk-books-a-flight-with-richard-bransons-virgin-galactic"> reservation holders for flights </a>with Virgin Galactic included Leonardo DiCaprio, Justin Bieber and Elon Musk. 
Virgin Galactic stock is down 51% year-to-date in 2025 and has fallen over 80% in the last year. Blue Origin remains privately held with Bezos as the owner.
While some people and the Wendy's social media account <a href="https://www.today.com/food/trends/wendys-disses-katy-perry-blue-origin-space-flight-rcna201385">criticized </a>the short flight taken by Perry and the other women, many people would probably welcome the chance to experience space, even if for a short while, if it were more affordable.
Of course, those who read Shatner's book that<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/22/10/29207326/my-trip-to-space-was-supposed-to-be-a-celebration-instead-it-felt-like-a-funeral-william-sh"> included his details</a> on his trip to space might want to skip the trip.
"When I looked in the opposite direction, into space, there was no mystery, no majestic awe to behold, all I saw was death," Shatner said in his book.
Shatner recalled what he saw as a "cold, dark, black emptiness" unlike any blackness you can see on Earth.
Shatner called the trip and views of space "the strongest feelings of grief I have ever encountered."
"My trip to space was supposed to be a celebration; instead, it felt like a funeral."
Read Next: 
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Photo: The NS-31 crew, via Blue Origin

Entertainment

SPACE

SPCE

Jeff Bezos Wants To Send You To Space After Katy Perry: Here's How Much A Reservation With Blue Origin Costs

Gartner (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IT#NYSE">IT</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 12.98% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 21.06%. Currently, Gartner has a market capitalization of $32.41 billion. 
Buying $100 In IT: If an investor had bought $100 of IT stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $4,668.04 today based on a price of $420.59 for IT at the time of writing.
<h3>Gartner's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745965812_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$100 Invested In Gartner 20 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

ASM International (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASMIY#OTC">ASMIY</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $3.62 per share. This is a 7.89 percent decrease over earnings of $3.93 per share from the same period last year. The company reported $671.98 million in sales this quarter. This is a 3.17 percent decrease over sales of $694.00 million the same period last year.

Earnings

ASM International Q1 Adj. EPS $3.62 Down From $3.93 YoY, Sales $671.98M Down From $694.00M YoY

Enel Chile (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ENIC#NYSE">ENIC</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.13 per share. This is a 160 percent increase over earnings of $0.05 per share from the same period last year. The company reported $1.10 billion in sales this quarter. This is a 8.55 percent decrease over sales of $1.21 billion the same period last year.

ENIC

Enel Chile Q1 EPS $0.13 Up From $0.05 YoY, Sales $1.10B Down From $1.21B YoY

Silicon Motion Technology (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SIMO#NASDAQ">SIMO</a>) sees Q2 sales of $175.000 million-$183.000 million vs $181.96 million analyst estimate.

SIMO

Silicon Motion Technology Sees Q2 Sales $175.000M-$183.000M vs $181.96M Est

Silicon Motion Technology (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SIMO#NASDAQ">SIMO</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.60 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.45 by 33.33 percent. This is a 6.25 percent decrease over earnings of $0.64 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $166.49 million which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $162.69 million by 2.34 percent. This is a 12.05 percent decrease over sales of $189.31 million the same period last year.

Earnings Beats

Silicon Motion Technology Q1 Adj. EPS $0.60 Beats $0.45 Estimate, Sales $166.49M Beat $162.69M Estimate

E2open Parent Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ETWO#NYSE">ETWO</a>) reported quarterly earnings of $0.06 per share which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $0.05 by 20 percent. This is a 20 percent increase over earnings of $0.05 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $152.68 million which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $153.01 million by 0.22 percent. This is a 3.64 percent decrease over sales of $158.45 million the same period last year.

Earnings Misses

ETWO

Correction: E2open Parent Holdings Q4 Adj. EPS $0.06 Beats $0.05 Estimate, Sales $152.68M Miss $153.01M Estimate

Press Releases

INVESTOR ALERT: Pomerantz Law Firm Investigates Claims On Behalf of Investors of MediaAlpha, Inc. - MAX

MediaAlpha Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results

Small Cap

MAX Investors Have the Opportunity to Join Investigation of MediaAlpha, Inc. with the Schall Law Firm

MediaAlpha, Inc. (MAX) Investors Who Lost Money - Contact Law Offices of Howard G. Smith About Securities Fraud Investigation

Securities Fraud Investigation Into MediaAlpha, Inc. (MAX) Announced - Investors Who Lost Money Urged To Contact Glancy Prongay & Murray LLP, a Leading Securities Fraud Law Firm

Legal

Wolf Haldenstein Adler Freeman & Herz LLP announces that it is investigating MediaAlpha Inc. for potential violations of securities laws

Management

MediaAlpha Names Keith Cramer as Chief Revenue Officer

MediaAlpha Adds Bradley Hunt to Board of Directors

MediaAlpha To Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on April 30, 2025

Kaskela Law LLC Announces Shareholder Investigation of MediaAlpha, Inc. (NYSE: MAX) and Encourages Investors to Contact the Firm

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