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Morgan Stanley Direct

Morgan Stanley Direct Lending Fund is a fund whose investment objective is to achieve attractive risk-adjusted returns via current income and to a lesser extent, capital appreciation by investing predominantly in directly originated senior secured term loans issued by U.S. middle-market companies backed by private equity sponsors. It invests predominantly in directly originated senior secured term loans including first lien senior secured term loans including unitranche loans and second lien senior secured term loans, with the balance of the investments expected to be in higher-yielding assets such as mezzanine debt, unsecured debt, equity investments and other opportunistic asset purchases.

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Morgan Stanley Direct Lending Fund

The past week was a whirlwind of economic news. From President Donald Trump&#8217;s aggressive trade deal deadline to Mark Cuban&#8217;s insights on inflation, the stories were as varied as they were impactful. Let&#8217;s dive into the details.
Trump&#8217;s Trade Deadline
President&nbsp;Donald Trump pushed for countries to submit their best trade negotiation, as his administration raced against a July 8 deadline. The U.S. is seeking proposals on tariff and quota offers for U.S. industrial and agricultural products, plans to remedy non-tariff barriers, digital trade and economic security commitments, and country-specific commitments.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/45740592/trump-sets-july-8-deadline-for-trade-deals-demands-best-offers-from-global-partners-by-wednesday-report">Read the full article here.</a>
Mark Cuban On Inflation
Billionaire investor&nbsp;Mark Cuban&nbsp;shared his thoughts on why inflation hasn&#8217;t surged as much as economists predicted in response to Trump&#8217;s &#8220;Liberation Day&#8221; tariffs. According to Cuban, businesses are using their cash reserves or taking on debt to stockpile inventory in anticipation of potential tariff hikes.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/Opinion/25/06/45714060/mark-cuban-says-these-are-the-reasons-prices-havent-risen-despite-trumps-liberation-day-tariffs-and-none-of-them-are-positive">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/market-summary/25/06/45798808/trump-announces-china-trade-talks-tesla-stock-slumps-whats-driving-markets-thursday" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Announces China Trade Talks, Tesla Stock Slumps: What&#8217;s Driving Markets Thursday?</a>
Howard Lutnick&#8217;s National Emergency
U.S. Commerce Secretary&nbsp;Howard Lutnick&nbsp;has declared America&#8217;s trade deficit a national emergency that requires immediate action. In a recent interview, Lutnick reaffirmed the Trump administration&#8217;s commitment to its tariff strategy, stating that tariffs are &#8220;not going away.&#8221;
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/06/45758956/howard-lutnick-calls-1-2-trillion-trade-deficit-a-national-emergency-says-trumps-tariffs-are-not-goi">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s Relationship With Xi Jinping
President Trump has expressed his admiration for Chinese President&nbsp;Xi Jinping, but also acknowledged the difficulty in negotiating with him. This comes as U.S.-China trade negotiations remain at a standstill, despite a temporary truce reached in May.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45764844/trump-says-he-likes-xi-jinping-of-china-but-calls-him-very-tough-and-extremely-hard-to-make-a-deal-with">Read the full article here.</a>
The Future of the Dollar
Veteran investor&nbsp;Rick Rule&nbsp;has warned of potential instability in the U.S. Dollar, suggesting that unchecked federal spending and unfunded liabilities could significantly reduce the greenback&#8217;s purchasing power over the next decade.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/45738637/dollar-to-lose-75-of-its-buying-power-in-next-10-years-rick-rule-says-if-1970s-are-an-indicator-it-could-happen">Read the full article here.</a>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/06/45739846/snowflake-sets-sights-on-350-billion-database-market-with-crunchy-data-acquisition" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Snowflake Sets Sights On $350 Billion Database Market With Crunchy Data Acquisition</a></li>
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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/ananya-gairola" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ananya Gairola</a>
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Economics

Trump's Trade Deadline, Cuban On Inflation, Lutnick's National Emergency And Trump-Xi Relations: This Week In Economics

After years in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45184462/yeah-no-its-low-wages-a-worker-responds-to-whether-the-skilled-labor-shortage-is-just-because-everyone-was-told-to-go-to-college">low-paying retail</a>, a Reddit user recently landed a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/11/41714026/28-year-old-software-developer-who-retired-after-working-just-7-years-shares-his-stock-portfolio-and">software development job</a> with a $105,000 salary. But instead of feeling relief or success, they&#8217;re overwhelmed by financial anxiety.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Money, More Worries</h2>
&#8220;Just hit $105K salary (software dev, finally escaped retail hell) and I thought I&#8217;d feel&#8230; rich? Or at least comfortable?&#8221; the poster wrote in the <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/MiddleClassFinance/comments/1l3hg5w/made_it_to_six_figures_but_somehow_feel_broker/">r/MiddleClassFinance</a> subreddit. &#8220;Instead, I&#8217;m lying awake at 2 a.m. doing mental math about whether I can <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45670256/screw-this-economy-a-worker-says-theyre-finally-too-broke-for-boba-and-coffee-with-tips-it-hit-20-more-than-their-hourly-wage">afford the $6 fancy coffee</a> tomorrow.&#8221;
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They explained that their old life on a $45,000 salary came with simplicity. &#8220;I lived in a sh&#x2A;tty studio, ate ramen, had like $200 leftover each month but somehow felt fine??&#8221; Now, with more income, they shop at Whole Foods, rent a one-bedroom apartment, and save $1,500 a month. Yet every expense feels heavier. &#8220;Now I&#8217;m stressed about every purchase over $50.&#8221;
&#8220;I think I&#8217;m experiencing some twisted version of lifestyle inflation,&#8221; they added. &#8220;When I made $45K I&#8217;d buy a $15 shirt without thinking. Now I make $105K and I spent 20 minutes last night researching if a $40 sweater was &#8216;worth it.'&#8221;
This sentiment hit home for many commenters who said they've experienced the same thing.
&#8220;When I was making less, I mentally felt &#8216;whatever&#8217; since the progress I was going to make on lower income was minimal,&#8221; one person shared.&nbsp;
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
&#8220;Before I made enough to save anything, there was no point thinking about money that much. Now my spending habits can make thousands of dollars of a difference in my annual savings and I am thinking of everything in terms of how it <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/38845785/living-on-edge-nearly-90-of-retirees-worried-inflation-will-eat-away-savings">impacts my retirement</a>,&#8221; another added.
Another person said, &#8220;My <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/04/38462785/finally-hit-1-million-and-ive-never-been-more-miserable-this-woman-wants-to-quit-job-but-struggl">higher-paying job is miserable</a> so now every dollar has inherently more value to it. Each one represents endured suffering and relatively few things seem worth the cost.&#8221;
Others blamed the problem on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/05/45710917/whats-driving-americans-to-live-paycheck-to-paycheck-one-person-says-its-like-being-thrown-into-adulthood-without-a-map">lifestyle creep and expectations</a>. &#8220;At $50K, spending $100 on a fancy keyboard was a way to feel like I could spend money. At $110K, spending $100 on a fancy keyboard I don&#8217;t really need is just opportunity cost,&#8221; a commenter explained.
One philosophical reply suggested this is a predictable psychological trap. &#8220;Kierkegaard coined the term &#8216;angst&#8217; to describe how it feels when you know that your choices have future consequences, but you don't know exactly which choice will result lead to which consequence,&#8221; they wrote. In essence, when one is broke, their options are limited. When they&#8217;re making six figures, there are more forks in the road.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Several commenters pointed out that a six-figure salary today <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/01/43403375/58-of-people-say-100000-a-year-is-the-bare-minimum-to-avoid-the-financial-stress-of-daily-life-heres-how-many-actually-earn-this">doesn&#8217;t go as far</a> as it once did. &#8220;$100K now is more like $60K pre-COVID,&#8221; one person wrote. Another broke down their expenses on a $160,000 salary and still had less than $1,200 a month left after taxes, healthcare, housing, and child support. &#8220;I should be swimming in cash like Scrooge McDuck.&#8221;
And when it comes to groceries? Whole Foods got roasted. &#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45517752/dave-ramsey-whatever-you-think-youre-spending-at-the-grocery-store-youre-wrong-its-more-than-that">Shopping at Whole Foods</a> is kind of a waste unless you have certain health requirements,&#8221; one person noted. &#8220;There's a reason they call it Whole Paycheck.&#8221;
The original poster may not feel wealthy, but many agreed their habits show long-term thinking.&nbsp;
Read Next: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.
Image: Shutterstock

News

A Software Developer Who Finally 'Escaped Retail Hell' Says They Finally Hit Six Figures But Feel Poorer Than Ever—'I Thought I'd Feel Rich'

The past week was filled with political drama, billionaire power plays, and potential economic impacts. The ongoing feud between President Donald Trump and Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO Elon Musk showed no signs of abating. Meanwhile, high-profile billionaires are attempting to reshape the Democratic Party, and former President Joe Biden is dismissing Trump&#8217;s allegations. Lastly, the auto industry is bracing for the impact of Trump&#8217;s steel tariffs.
Trump-Musk Feud Continues
President Donald Trump has declared he has no plans to engage with Elon Musk, further fueling their ongoing disagreement over the controversial &#8216;Big, Beautiful Bill.&#8217; Despite wishing Musk success with Tesla, Trump has made it clear that a conversation with the EV giant&#8217;s CEO is not on his agenda.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45826692/trump-musk-feud-may-not-end-anytime-soon-as-president-says-he-has-no-plans-to-speak-to-the-tesla-ceo">Read the full article here.</a>
Musk Supports Trump&#8217;s Impeachment
The war of words between Trump and Musk escalated when Musk publicly endorsed a call to impeach Trump and replace him with Vice President JD Vance. The call for impeachment was made by right-wing commentator Ian Miles Cheong.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45808078/elon-musk-says-yes-to-impeaching-trump-replacing-him-with-jd-vance-amid-fierce-back-and-forth-over-big-beautiful-bill">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/topics/25/05/45709073/bono-tells-joe-rogan-that-300000-people-have-died-from-doge-led-usaid-cuts-elon-musk-calls-him-a-liar-says-zero-people-have-died" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bono Tells Joe Rogan That 300,000 People Have Died From DOGE-Led USAID Cuts: Elon Musk Calls Him A Liar, Says &#8216;Zero People Have Died&#8217; &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Billionaires Reboot Democratic Party
Billionaires like James Murdoch and LinkedIn&#8217;s Reid Hoffman are backing a new centrist movement within the Democratic Party. The initiative, known as WelcomeFest, aims to energize moderate voices and build a structured political movement to counterbalance the party&#8217;s progressive wing.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45789292/billionaires-like-james-murdoch-and-linkedins-reid-hoffman-are-fueling-a-centrist-reboot-of-the-democratic-party">Read the full article here.</a>
Biden Dismisses Trump&#8217;s Allegations
Former President Joe Biden has refuted allegations made by Trump concerning his mental health and the use of an autopen for signing official documents. Biden dismissed these allegations as a distraction from the &#8216;disastrous&#8217; bill that Trump and Congressional Republicans are pushing.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45786416/joe-biden-calls-trump-probe-a-distraction-from-disastrous-gop-bill-aiming-to-raise-costs-for-americans-all-to-pay-for-tax-breaks-for-the-ultra-wealthy">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s Steel Tariff Impacts Automakers
Trump&#8217;s 50% tariff on steel imports could significantly increase costs for U.S. auto manufacturers. The industry is now scrambling to restructure its supply chain in response to these tariffs.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45786145/trumps-50-steel-tariff-could-drive-up-the-costs-for-automakers-almost-2000-of-cost-for-each-car">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44450232/white-house-says-gold-reserves-may-be-used-to-purchase-bitcoin" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">White House Says Gold Reserves May Be Used to Purchase Bitcoin &#8211; Benzinga</a>
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/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>
Photo courtesy: Joey Sussman / Shutterstock.com

Politics

TSLA

Trump-Musk Feud Escalates, Billionaires Look To Reboot Democratic Party, And More: This Week In Politics

It's incredible how many different ways you can make money, and financial guru Graham Stephan was impressed to hear that someone makes $300,000 per year with a <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@grahamstephan/video/7511475338715843883?lang=en">vending machine business</a>.
He proceeded to compare it with real estate, explaining that vending machines generate cash flow without having to worry about tenants. Stephan pointed out that each vending machine has to be maintained and that a business owner likely has to restock the machines every one to two weeks.
"It's not bad," Stephan said while expressing approval for the business model.
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You don't have to invest in real estate to generate cash flow. Vending machine businesses may be right for you, and they are easier to build if you're on a budget.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Upfront Costs</h2>
You don't need a lot of money to buy a vending machine. The price of a good vending machine ranges from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on whether you want an old machine or a new machine with the most features. Then, it's a matter of stocking the shelves with the initial inventory. Once that inventory performs well, you can proceed to buy more inventory and reinvest the profits into additional vending machines.
You'll also have to contend with some legal registration fees and franchise fees. The location fee is also a factor; this fee usually represents a percentage of total sales, typically 5% to 25% of that machine's revenue. Most commission arrangements are on the lower end, but the location plays a big factor.
This is a great business model since the owner of the location is financially incentivized to promote the vending machine and keep it in good condition. The business owner who puts your vending machine in their area will want the machine to do well since it translates into more revenue.
Trending: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Looking For Profitable Locations</h2>
There's a lot less pressure with finding your first profitable vending machine location than there is to be profitable with your first real estate investment. The relatively low cost of vending machines makes it easier to scale, but naturally, you still want to be profitable with every vending machine location.
Some cities and suburban areas have more foot traffic than others, but you should also assess which types of buildings get the most traffic. Schools, hospitals, and office buildings are some of the most promising areas. You will have to contact the property owner to determine the terms and see if it's a good deal.&nbsp;
It's perfectly fine to contact several property owners before deciding on the right location. Reaching out to multiple people will give you an idea of what payment structure you can negotiate.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Set Ambitious Goals</h2>
The vending machine business model can offer steady cash flow without the stress of managing tenants. It's also more affordable to enter the industry than real estate and can be lucrative.&nbsp;
You will still encounter some obstacles along the way. If there weren't challenges with this business model, then everyone would be rushing to do it.&nbsp;
Stephan showcased an individual who makes $300,000 per year with vending machines. Stories like those demonstrate what is possible, and if you set ambitious goals and work toward them, you can become the next case study.&nbsp;
Read Next: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.
Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

Graham Stephan Shares A Story Of A Guy Who Makes $300,000 Per Year With Vending Machines: 'It's Not Bad'

After more than 30 years as a meteorologist, John Morales says he can&#8217;t promise Florida the same level of confidence this year when it comes to forecasting dangerous storms, including hurricanes. And the reason, he says, isn&#8217;t the weather itself — it&#8217;s the state of the country&#8217;s weather infrastructure.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Florida Offices Are Short-Staffed, Data Is Lacking, And Accuracy Is Suffering</h2>
&#8220;I am here to tell you that I am not sure I can do that this year, Morales said during a June 3 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwmmPlw06_0">WTVJ-TV</a> broadcast, reflecting on his calm reassurance during Hurricane Dorian in 2019, which devastated the northwest Bahamas as a Category 5 storm while many Floridians feared a direct hit.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">South Florida weatherman tells viewers he can&#39;t accurately predict hurricanes because of government cuts <a href="https://t.co/n0xolylA6C">pic.twitter.com/n0xolylA6C</a>
&mdash; &#x1f30a; R Saddler (@Politics_PR) <a href="https://twitter.com/Politics_PR/status/1930094865020232136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
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Why is he no longer confident in his forecasting? &#8220;Because of the cuts, the gutting, the sledgehammer <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45619523/neil-degrasse-tyson-says-cutting-science-and-education-funding-is-so-severe-if-a-foreign-power-did-it-wed-call-it-an-act-of-war">attack on science in general</a>,&#8221; he said, &#8220;I could talk about that for a long, long time and how that is affecting the U.S. Leadership in science over many years and how we&#8217;re losing that leadership.&#8221;
Morales is among many meteorologists and scientists raising alarms about the recent wave of budget cuts and layoffs hitting the National Weather Service and its parent agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Central and South Florida NWS offices are currently operating with 20% to 40% fewer staff than needed, according to Morales.
He also mentioned that because of some of these cuts, the NOAA &#8220;Hurricane Hunter&#8221; aircraft will not be able to fly this year. As Morales put it, that means, &#8220;We may be flying blind and not exactly know how strong a hurricane is before it reaches the coastline.&#8221;
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
The Trump administration cut nearly 600 NWS positions earlier this year. Some field offices were no longer staffed around the clock. Weather balloon launches dropped by 20%, and critical hurricane reconnaissance flights were at risk of being canceled. Those flights collect key data that help experts understand storm strength and direction.
&#8220;This could result in another Otis,&#8221; Morales warned, referring to Hurricane Otis in 2023, which was forecast as a tropical storm just 24 hours before slamming into Acapulco, Mexico as a Category 5 hurricane.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Forecast Models Are Getting Worse, Not Better</h2>
The staffing and data shortages have already apparently started to affect the accuracy of forecast models. &#8220;The quality of the forecast is becoming degraded,&#8221; Morales said.
The situation drew national attention earlier this year when news broke that the Trump administration was planning to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44222551/meteorologist-warns-that-gutting-noaa-will-bankrupt-the-us-says-every-single-dollar-of-our-economy-is-impacted-by-the-weather">cancel the lease</a> for NOAA&#8217;s main forecasting center in Maryland, a facility housing supercomputers and data hubs essential for weather prediction.
See Also: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.
Meteorologist Brad Panovich with WCNC-TV in Charlotte, North Carolina, warned that this kind of move could have wide-reaching consequences. &#8220;Every single dollar of our economy is impacted by the weather,&#8221; he <a href="https://x.com/wxbrad/status/1896700892633612369">posted on X</a> at the time. &#8220;This will literally bankrupt the U.S.&#8221;
University of Pennsylvania climatologist Michael Mann called the dismantling of NOAA &#8220;catastrophic,&#8221; telling <a href="https://www.newsweek.com/doge-set-cancel-lease-weather-nerve-center-tornado-season-begins-2040142">Newsweek</a> that &#8220;Without NOAA, we are flying blind into a climate abyss.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rehiring Starts, But The Damage Is Already Done</h2>
Following public backlash and several deadly storms, the NWS recently received authorization to rehire 126 employees, including forecasters and radar technicians. But former NOAA undersecretary Mary Glackin told <a href="https://www.npr.org/2025/06/03/nx-s1-5422198/nws-national-weather-service-hires-again-trump-cuts">NPR</a> that it might be too little, too late. &#8220;This is kind of putting a band-aid on a rather large wound,&#8221; she said. &#8220;We&#8217;re in the middle of a severe weather season. It&#8217;s not a good time to be understaffed.&#8221;
According to Glackin, the rehires won&#8217;t be in place until at least September, and the NWS still remains short by several hundred positions. The agency is trying to stabilize operations, but many meteorologists worry the country&#8217;s forecasting system may already be compromised.
&#8220;I just want you to know that what you need to do is call your representatives and make sure that these cuts are stopped,&#8221; Morales urged.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Image: Shutterstock

Veteran Florida Weatherman Says He's Struggling To Forecast Hurricanes, Blames 'The Gutting, The Sledgehammer Attack On Science'

How do you know if you're actually rich — like, rich rich?
If you've ever wondered whether your savings, investments, or home equity stack up to the country's wealthiest, there's a number that draws the line. And while it might sound like an elite bracket reserved for finance bros and inheritance babies, the top 5% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43759794/are-you-a-top-1-earner-heres-what-you-need-to-rake-in-to-be-among-the-richest">isn't as far out of reach as some might think</a>.
You'll hear people toss around figures like "I want to retire with $5 million," or "You're not rich until you never check your balance." Fair. But in the background, many are just quietly checking to see if their net worth is even close to making the cut. You'll spot them in Reddit threads, in comment sections, or sitting across from you at brunch, casually mentioning their Roth IRA.
So—how rich do you need to be to join the top 5% of households?
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</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Number: $3.8 Million</h2>
According to the <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/scfindex.htm">Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances</a>, you'd need a net worth of about $3.8 million to break into the top 5% of U.S. households. That includes everything you own—retirement accounts, investments, your home—minus any debts you owe.
Seems steep? Compared to the median net worth in America, which is around $192,700, it is. But if you've been aggressively saving, investing wisely, or just got lucky with some real estate timing, you might be closer than you think.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Average vs. Median: Why It Matters</h2>
The average net worth of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44891276/the-average-household-is-a-millionaire-with-a-1-06-million-net-worth-according-to-the-fed-so-why-do-people-still-feel-broke">households in the U.S. is about $1.06 million</a>, but don't let that fool you. Averages get warped by the ultra-wealthy. The median is a better measure for the "typical" household—and that's why $192,000 matters. If you're above it, you're ahead of most. If you're below it, you're not alone.
Trending: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Counts in That $3.8 Million?</h2>
This number includes:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Retirement savings (401(k), IRA)</li>
<li>Brokerage and investment accounts</li>
<li>Real estate equity</li>
<li>Business ownership or equity</li>
<li>Cash and bank holdings</li>
</ul>
Minus credit card debt, student loans, mortgages, etc. 
It doesn't count income—this is strictly net worth, not how much you make.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How To Grow Your Net Worth</h2>
Whether you're halfway there or just getting started, here are a few things that actually move the needle:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Automate your investing. Consistency beats timing.</li>
<li>Pay down high-interest debt. It eats your momentum.</li>
<li>Own appreciating assets. Think equities or property, not depreciating toys.</li>
<li>Reinvest wisely. Compound interest rewards the patient.</li>
</ul>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">So… Are You Rich?</h2>
Comparing yourself to others isn't the recipe for happiness—but it is human nature. Benchmarks like this help give context, not judgment. Some people live well below their means and still feel broke. Others drive a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/40963028/suze-orman-says-keep-your-car-for-15-years-or-longer-instead-of-leasing-a-new-one-every-3-years-">15-year-old car and feel free</a>.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Your version of "rich"</a> might mean peace of mind, flexibility, or just not sweating the small stuff. These numbers are guideposts, not gospel.
But if you're aiming for top 5% status? Now you know the number. The rest is strategy.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Image: Shutterstock

Want To Be In The Top 5% Of Households? Here's Exactly How Much You Need—And It's Much Lower Than You'd Guess

President Donald Trump issued a warning to Elon Musk, stating that there would be &#8220;serious consequences&#8221; if Musk chooses to financially back Democratic candidates against Republicans who support the GOP&#8217;s budget bill.
What Happened: According to an interview with NBC News on Saturday, Trump said, "If he does, he'll have to pay the consequences for that."
However, he did not elaborate on what the repercussions might be for Musk, if he decides to fund Democratic candidates.
"He'll have to pay very serious consequences if he does that," Trump added while speaking with the <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-elon-musk-consequences-funds-democratic-candidates-rcna211605">outlet</a>.
This warning follows a public spat between Trump and Musk earlier in the week. Trump has shown no interest in reconciling with Musk, assuming their relationship to be beyond repair.
When asked if he thought his relationship with Musk was over, Trump said, "I would assume so, yeah."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45827968/trump-vs-musk-betting-markets-anticipate-next-move-in-musk-trump-feud-predict-low-chances-of-musk-forming-political-party">Trump vs. Musk: Betting Markets Anticipate Next Move in Musk-Trump Feud, Predict Low Chances of Musk Forming Political Party</a>
Trump further added that he has no plans to speak with Musk. "I'm too busy doing other things. I have no intention of speaking to him."
The President has accused Musk of showing disrespect towards the office of the President. This accusation was in response to Musk&#8217;s series of posts against Trump, including a now-deleted post that highlighted past connections between Trump and the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Prior to their public fallout, Musk had expressed his disapproval&nbsp;of a GOP-led spending bill&nbsp;that was passed by the House last month. 
Trump, in response, expressed his disappointment in Musk, reminding him of the support he had extended to him in the past.
Trump suggested that one&nbsp;way to save money in&nbsp;the budget could be to cut Musk&#8217;s government subsidies and contracts, specifically&nbsp;referring to federal contracts with&nbsp;SpaceX. However, he confessed that he hadn&#8217;t given this idea much consideration.
Despite calls for an investigation into Musk&#8217;s business practices and immigration record, Trump stated that it wasn&#8217;t a priority for him at this time.
Musk has previously donated a significant amount of money to Trump&#8217;s 2024 presidential campaign, contributing over $250 million to support him in swing states. 
Despite their current disagreement, Trump believes that it has brought attention to&nbsp;the benefits of the bill.
Why It Matters: The public feud and subsequent warning from Trump could potentially impact Musk&#8217;s political and business decisions. 
It remains to be seen how this situation will unfold and what the potential consequences might be for Musk, Tesla, and SpaceX.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45827849/public-fight-between-trump-and-musk-rocks-tesla-spacex-here-are-the-biggest-bombshells">Public Fight Between Trump and Musk Rocks Tesla, SpaceX: Here Are the Biggest Bombshells</a>
Image: Shutterstock/bella1105

Trump Warns Musk Against Aiding Democrats: 'He'll Have To Pay Serious Consequences If He Does That'

Mass layoffs have rattled the U.S. workforce over the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/top-stories/24/06/39457749/tesla-leads-2024-us-tech-layoffs-so-far-followed-by-dell-cisco-xerox-paypal-microsoft">past year</a>, hitting nearly every sector from tech to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44277188/a-poverty-sentence-heres-why-some-say-losing-a-federal-job-is-worse-than-being-fired-in-the-private-sector">federal agencies</a>. As job security erodes and economic uncertainty deepens, one uncomfortable question is echoing louder in online communities: Are we being quietly pushed to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43850350/dave-ramsey-says-hes-going-to-be-miserable-if-when-a-wife-asks-if-her-husband-should-join-the-military-to-get-student-loans-forgiven">enlist in the military</a>?
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;Give Me A Weapon&#8217;</h2>
That question recently took center stage in a popular Reddit thread on r/Layoffs. The original post was straightforward: &#8220;With all the layoffs, are we being pushed to enlist into the military?&#8221;
Commenters responded, not with patriotism, but with sarcasm, exhaustion and deep cynicism.
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&#8220;I've been unemployed over 2 years. Sure, give me a weapon,&#8221; one person wrote. Another added, &#8220;They won't take me. I'm too old now. I think we're just supposed to die for the oligarchy?&#8221;
While some dismissed the idea outright, others pointed to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/25/05/45484549/inflation-still-tops-americans-financial-concerns-but-worries-are-shifting">rising economic pressure</a> and lack of job alternatives, especially for younger people or those without a college degree. One person said, &#8220;The military is not for the faint of heart. Wendy&#8217;s suits you more,&#8221; mocking the narrow options many face.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Some See It As A Smart Financial Move</h2>
A handful of veterans and current service members shared a different perspective. One Redditor, who served a short stint in active duty, said he and his wife left the military with paid-for degrees, $400,000 in investments, and about $5,000 a month in tax-free disability pay. &#8220;Mileage may vary,&#8221; he noted, but the payoff can be real.
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
Another encouraged young people to consider it strategically: &#8220;If you are under 30 and can&#8217;t get a job&#8230; consider joining the military. It&#8217;s not a bad idea. You only need 25 years of service to retire&#8230; You are also the first choice for hire in city jobs.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Barriers To Entry Are Real</h2>
Several commenters noted that even if they wanted to enlist, they likely couldn't. The military has strict entry requirements. &#8220;The basic physical minimums probably eliminate 70% of people alone,&#8221; someone said, adding that antidepressants, past drug use, and even dental issues can disqualify applicants.
The original poster shared his own doubts: &#8220;I&#8217;m 37M who weighs about 300lbs and I don&#8217;t have a thyroid gland&#8230; I can lose weight but idk if the military will accept my medical condition.&#8221;
See Also: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Bigger Picture?</h2>
Many tied the issue to broader trends: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/05/45613320/ai-is-gutting-entry-level-jobs-and-gen-z-is-paying-the-price-warns-linkedins-aneesh-raman">AI taking over junior white-collar jobs</a>, soaring housing prices, and what some called a &#8220;coordinated effort&#8221; to push people out of higher education and into manual labor or military service. &#8220;They just want manual labor now as they believe AI will take over all thinking jobs,&#8221; one comment read.
Others echoed distrust in the system altogether. &#8220;We are forced on 401(k)s on a market that can&#8217;t grow forever, have money in banks that steal from us, and depend on our health care from jobs that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45250949/tech-layoffs-get-the-headlines-but-its-uncle-sam-doge-whos-bleeding-workers-in-2025">get rid of us</a> like flies.&#8221;
Whether the shift toward military enlistment is intentional or not, the sentiment is that many people are starting to feel boxed in.
As one person put it, &#8220;Joining the military is just another way to sell your body to rich men.&#8221;
Read Next: Many are using retirement income calculators to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a>
Image: Shutterstock

With Tech, Fed And Corporate Layoffs Surging, One Question Is Gaining Traction: 'Are We Being Pushed To Enlist Into The Military?'

Rich people seem to have their mindsets hardwired differently from most people, but many of these same people share their biggest wealth-building secrets online. Small business guru Codie Sanchez recently shared a secret that <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@realcodiesanchez/video/7511405633338494251?lang=en">rich people use to build wealth</a>, and she regularly uses it herself.
"Turn every expense into an income stream," she explained.
Viewing every expense as an opportunity to make money can be an eye-opening experience. Here's how you can make it happen.
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</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Invest In Small Businesses</h2>
Sanchez mentions several examples of how she turned regular expenses into income. For instance, she bought vending machines when she realized she was spending too much money on gym snacks. The vending machine now makes her $1,000 per month.
While $1,000 per month isn't life-changing, it's part of a mindset shift that can lead to riches. Sanchez also bought part of a window cleaning company when she realized she was spending too much money on window cleaning. Making that investment generates cash flow, but it also allows her to save money on window cleaning services.
Sanchez repeated the process by buying part of a painting company. You can also follow this strategy by investing in shares of publicly traded corporations. For instance, if you spend a lot of money on Amazon, buying Amazon shares can help you pay for those expenses.&nbsp;
Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;
Although it wouldn't make sense to sell Amazon shares just to buy things on Amazon, those shares can gain value over time. If the returns compound, you can end up making more in Amazon stock gains than you spend on Amazon orders.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Investing In Businesses With Zero Money Or Experience</h2>
Sanchez proceeds to explain how you can invest in small businesses even if you have no money or experience. Seller financing makes equity stakes more accessible, but you can also raise money with an SBA loan. The only catch with an SBA loan is that it can take up to 90 days to get approved for a 7(a) loan.
If you buy the business outright, she suggests finding a top-tier professional and offering him 10% equity in your business. Then, the company's cash flow can pay off the debt and the operator. This model involves the operator running the entire business for you.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Only Skills You Need</h2>
Sanchez wraps up the video by explaining that you just have to be a good dealmaker to make it work. Dealmaking allows you to buy businesses and take back Main Street from Wall Street.&nbsp;
However, it's also good to know how to get the business in front of more people. You will need to know a few marketing channels very well, such as online ads, local SEO, or content marketing. Good dealmaking enables these types of opportunities while knowing marketing or hiring someone who knows how to implement the best marketing strategies is also essential.
It's good to have some business knowledge before going into any deal, but the best way to learn is by doing. Sanchez has acquired partial and full stakes in many small businesses, and that has diversified her income in the process.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
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Codie Sanchez Reveals A Secret That Rich People Use To Compound Wealth: 'Turn Every Expense Into An Income Stream'

<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Non-alcoholic beer is projected to grow by 8% this year, according to IWSR, making it the second-largest beer category worldwide in 2025</li>
<li>The sector's growth is largely driven by millennials and Gen Z, among whom sober-curious lifestyles are on the rise</li>
<li>Meticulous Research predicts the global non-alcoholic beer market will reach $34.97 billion by 2032</li>
</ul>
Non-alcoholic beer is set to overtake ale as the second-largest beer category by volume in 2025, according to global drinks provider <a href="https://www.theiwsr.com/insight/developing-markets-key-to-future-tba-growth-after-lacklustre-2024/">IWSR</a>.
The data provider is projecting an 8% growth in the sector in 2024-2025, with the U.S. alone spending $2 billion more on non-alcoholic beer over the next five years.
Despite this growth, non-alcoholic beer is far from the top-selling beer category globally, with only about 2% of the market share according to <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/29/non-alcoholic-beer-to-pass-ale-in-sales-volume-this-year.html">CNBC</a>. Lager, with its 92% market share, remains the leader.
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</ul>
Non-alcoholic beverages have been gaining popularity as consumers cut back on their alcohol consumption, says <a href="https://www.theiwsr.com/insight/key-statistics-and-trends-for-the-us-no-alcohol-market/">IWSR</a>. Millennials and Gen Z are the largest groups of non-alcoholic beverage consumers, and are largely responsible for the push for brewers to invest in zero-proof alternatives.
With companies like <a href="https://ncsolutions.com/the-goods/sober-curious-nation-alcohol-survey/">NCSolutions</a> reporting that 49% of Americans are trying to drink less in 2025, and 58% of Americans are planning to try non-alcoholic beverages this year, major beer brands are cluing in and rolling out alcohol-free versions of their classic products. Guinness, Heineken, and Budweiser have all introduced zero-proof options within the last five years.
Several brands with only non-alcoholic offerings have also sprung up recently. Athletic Brewing, which was founded in 2018, is now the top-selling non-alcoholic beer brand in the U.S., CNBC reports. The upstart holds 17% of the category's volume share, edging out Bud Zero and Heineken's 0.0 version. Just three years earlier, Athletic held only a 4% share of the sector.&nbsp;
Trending: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
As is true with many other branches of the beverage market, no-alcohol beer has experienced a rash of celebrity-backed brands flooding the shelves. Actor Tom Holland launched Bero in 2024, retired NBA player Dwyane Wade helped get Bud Zero off the ground in 2020, and actor Dax Shepherd created Ted Segers in 2023.
Despite projections from <a href="http://bernstein/">Meticulous Research</a> that the global non-alcoholic beer market will reach $34.97 billion by 2032, IWSR says there are still a number of barriers the market must overcome in order to reach that growth potential. Specifically, availability, price, and taste have the ability to affect market value. "Boomers' expectations for lower prices conflict with the higher production costs of most no-alcohol products," the report says.
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Non-Alcoholic Beer Sales Up 9% In 2024, Experts Predict It Will Be The Second-Largest Beer Category Worldwide In 2025

For most of us, a tough question sounds like "Where do you see yourself in five years?" or "Why is your child eating peanut butter off the floor?" But for Warren Buffett—a man who's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43718032/warren-buffett-was-asked-how-a-regular-person-gets-rich-he-detailed-exactly-how-hed-make-30-billion-starting-over-with-only-10000">fielded questions about billions</a>, bailouts, and Berkshire—his hardest question had nothing to do with stocks.
It was about the minimum wage.
In a <a href="https://youtu.be/Pss2x9eOaJw?si=lQIOWfrbPQZ09y49">2015 CNN interview with Poppy Harlow</a>, Buffett was asked if the federal minimum wage should be raised from $7.25 an hour. Harlow didn't tiptoe into it—she reminded him he'd already called it the most difficult question he'd ever been asked.
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</ul>
"Last year when I asked you, Warren, if the federal minimum wage should be raised from $7.25 an hour, you said: ‘That is the toughest question you could ask me, because I've been thinking about it for 50 years, and I don't know the answer.'"
When pressed again, Buffett acknowledged the dilemma hadn't gotten any easier. "I'd like to see everybody make $20 an hour at a minimum," he said, but quickly added, "I know if you increase it to $20 an hour, you'd have millions of people unemployed. I don't know how to calibrate it precisely."
A decade later, it's clear the country doesn't either. The federal minimum wage hasn't budged, and the same economic tension Buffett described—between higher pay and potential job loss—still keeps policymakers in a holding pattern. Even now, the "toughest question" remains unanswered.
Trending: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Happens When You Raise Minimum Wage?</h2>
Buffett isn't alone in wrestling with this. The economic debate over minimum wage is decades deep, and not without its contradictions.
Studies from the <a href="https://www.cbo.gov/publication/56975">Congressional Budget Office</a> and economists across the political spectrum suggest that modest increases in the minimum wage can lift incomes and reduce poverty—but may also lead to some job losses, particularly among young or low-skilled workers. The bigger the hike, the higher the risk.
Cities like Seattle and San Francisco <a href="https://www.frbsf.org/research-and-insights/publications/economic-letter/2015/12/effects-of-minimum-wage-on-employment">have raised their minimum wages</a> well above the federal level and early research has shown mixed results. Some workers earned more. Others saw hours cut. In industries with tight margins—like restaurants and retail—businesses have had to adjust, and not all managed to stay afloat. It's exactly the kind of tradeoff Buffett worries about. "You do lose some employment as you increase the minimum wage," he said. "If you didn't, I would be for having it $15 an hour." The reality, he suggests, is that there's no one-size-fits-all solution—just difficult compromises between helping workers and protecting jobs.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Buffett's Fix Puts Less Pressure on Employers, More Help from Government</h2>
Buffett believes there's a better tool in the policy toolkit: the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43578779/warren-buffett-said-anybody-whos-willing-to-work-40-hours-a-week-deserves-a-decent-life-but-proposes-a-minimum-income-not-minimum-wage-2">earned income tax credit</a>. It's a refundable tax credit that boosts the income of low-to-moderate earners, without placing the full cost on employers.
"I personally believe that the earned income tax credit is a much better way of handling the problem of people who are really not paid enough to live decently," Buffett explained. In 2013, the EITC delivered over $56 billion in aid. Buffett thinks it should go even further—expanded and "done smarter."
It's a solution designed to lift up workers without risking jobs. But unlike wage hikes, the earned income tax credit depends on political will, budget priorities—and it often flies under the radar. Many workers who qualify never even claim it.
Buffett's honesty on this is rare. After 50 years of watching markets, reading economic data, and weighing the trade-offs, he's still torn.
"I don't know if more people will be better off," he admitted. And that's coming from a man who's made a living betting big on long-term outcomes. But maybe that's the point: when even Warren Buffett hesitates to take a side, it's probably not a black-and-white issue.
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Image: Shutterstock

Warren Buffett Says Toughest Question He's Ever Been Asked Is Whether Minimum Wage Should Go Up — 'I Don't Know If People Will Be Better Off'

Five former Proud Boys leaders have filed a sweeping $100 million lawsuit against the U.S. government, alleging they were unjustly prosecuted for their roles in the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45826882/trump-signs-orders-to-strengthen-us-drone-defenses-and-supersonic-flight" rel="noreferrer noopener"> January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.</a>
The plaintiffs—Henry &#8220;Enrique&#8221; Tarrio, Ethan Nordean, Joseph Biggs, Zachary Rehl, and Dominic Pezzola—say their constitutional rights were violated during legal proceedings, which they claim were tainted by political motivations, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cr4z7zyl0gwo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports </a>BBC.
The lawsuit, submitted in a Florida federal court on Friday, accuses federal prosecutors and FBI agents of bias, alleging misconduct such as witness coercion and tampering with evidence.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45800612/trump-says-musk-has-trump-derangement-syndrome-as-battle-over-bill-heats-up-had-a-great-relationship-dont-know-if-we-will-anymore" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Says Musk Has &#8216;Trump Derangement Syndrome&#8217; As Battle Over Bill Heats Up: &#8216;Had A Great Relationship… Don&#8217;t Know If We Will Anymore&#8217;</a>
The defendants argue their treatment was part of a broader effort to persecute allies of President Donald Trump.
Tarrio, the group&#8217;s former chairman, was convicted of seditious conspiracy and received a 22-year sentence—among the harshest tied to the Capitol breach.
The others received similar convictions and prison terms. However, their fortunes shifted dramatically earlier this year when Donald Trump pardoned the group during his second presidential inauguration, describing them as victims of government overreach.
Trump defended his sweeping clemency move, stating, &#8220;What they&#8217;ve done to these people is outrageous,&#8221; and labeled the prosecutions as historically extreme.
The lawsuit echoes these sentiments, calling the federal cases &#8220;corrupt and politically motivated.&#8221;
Filed against the Department of Justice, now led by Attorney General Pam Bondi under the Trump administration, the legal challenge highlights alleged systemic abuses in how the cases were handled.
The plaintiffs argue that federal agents pursued them not out of justice, but due to animus toward their political affiliations.
Over 1,500 individuals have faced federal charges tied to the Capitol attack, with hundreds accused of assaulting law enforcement officers using various makeshift weapons.
Despite this, Trump and his allies have continued to characterize January 6 as a misrepresented event.
His critics, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have called the pardons a slap in the face to justice.
This lawsuit may further complicate ongoing debates surrounding accountability, political bias, and the long-term consequences of the Capitol insurrection.
Also Read:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42714291/anthony-scaramucci-tells-musk-to-stick-to-business-heres-musks-musical-response" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Anthony Scaramucci Tells Musk To ‘Stick To Business' — Here's Musk's Musical Response</a></li>
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Image: Shutterstock/Johnny Silvercloud

Equities

Markets

General

Proud Boys Sue DOJ For $100 Million, Slam January 6 Convictions As 'Politically Motivated'

Didi Taihuttu and his family, known widely as the &#8220;Bitcoin Family,&#8221; have reportedly taken dramatic steps to safeguard their digital wealth amid a global uptick <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in violent crypto-targeted crimes</a>.
The family, which famously liquidated all their assets in 2017 to bet entirely on Bitcoin, has revamped their entire security system to minimize physical and digital threats.
CNBC reports that the Taihuttus now store their crypto seed phrases across four continents using a method that combines analog stealth and digital encryption.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45800186/bitcoin-stock-strategy-buy-or-sell-what-technicals-reveal-for-michael-saylors-mstr" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin Stock Strategy— Buy Or Sell? What Technicals Reveal For Michael Saylor&#8217;s MSTR?</a>
After a string of disturbing incidents—including abductions, physical torture, and ransom schemes targeting crypto holders in France and New York—Taihuttu chose to abandon hardware wallets altogether.
Instead, he has implemented a more intricate system: a single 24-word seed phrase, split into four encrypted chunks, each hidden in a separate global location, CNBC adds.
Most of the family&#8217;s digital fortune—roughly 65%—sits in cold storage, completely disconnected from the internet.
The remainder is allocated to hot wallets protected by multi-signature protocols.
Taihuttu uses tools like Safe (formerly Gnosis Safe) for altcoins and layered security structures on centralized platforms such as Bybit.
One of the main reasons behind the hardware wallet exodus is skepticism around device security.
Following controversial firmware updates and fears of backdoor access, Taihuttu replaced them with steel-etched, fireproof backups hidden physically.
The family now avoids even filming at home or sharing real-time travel details due to stalkers identifying their whereabouts.
Beyond traditional multi-signature wallets, Taihuttu is also exploring multi-party computation (MPC).
Unlike standard setups, MPC splits the private key itself among multiple parties, requiring a quorum to initiate any transaction. This ensures no individual has complete control, further reducing vulnerability.
With plans to access their cold wallets only when Bitcoin reaches $1 million—projected by 2033—the Taihuttus are positioning their crypto as a long-term pension fund.
Meanwhile, 80% of their trading now happens on decentralized exchanges like Apex, which let them maintain custody while executing trades.
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

'Bitcoin Family' Hides Crypto Across Four Continents After Kidnap Scare

<h3 class="wp-block-heading"></h3>
Elon Musk&#8216;s claim regarding President Donald Trump&#8216;s connection to the undisclosed Jeffrey Epstein files has ignited a political uproar.
What Happened: Musk made a shocking statement on X, saying,&nbsp;&#8220;Time to drop the really&nbsp;big bomb: @realDonaldTrump is in&nbsp;the Epstein files. That is&nbsp;the real reason they have&nbsp;not been made public.&#8221; 
He, however, did not present any supporting evidence for his claim.
Despite the absence of any concrete proof, House Democrats have capitalized on Musk&#8217;s statement, with two oversight committee members calling for&nbsp;a response from Justice Department&nbsp;officials.
While Trump&#8217;s association with Epstein, the late financier and convicted sex trafficker, is public knowledge, there are no records indicating Trump&#8217;s involvement in Epstein&#8217;s illegal activities. The President has consistently refuted any allegations of misconduct related to Epstein.
Karoline Leavitt, the White House Press Secretary, labeled Musk&#8217;s allegations as &#8220;unfortunate&#8221; and hinted that Musk&#8217;s discontent with the One Big Beautiful Bill could be the driving force behind his claims.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/social-media/25/05/45710915/elon-musk-once-asked-why-epstein-maxwell-client-list-hasnt-leaked-heres-how-he-responded-to-x-user-who-suggested-he-was-a-client">Elon Musk Once Asked Why Epstein-Maxwell Client List Hasn&#8217;t Leaked — Here&#8217;s How He Responded to X User Who Suggested He Was a Client</a>
During his 2024 presidential campaign,&nbsp;Trump had expressed his willingness to make&nbsp;government documents related to Epstein&nbsp;public if he were to be elected.
The phrase &#8220;Epstein files&#8221; remains ambiguous.&nbsp;Attorney General Pamela Bondi and&nbsp;FBI Director Kash Patel have&nbsp;committed to releasing documents related to Epstein in the Justice Department&#8217;s possession. 
However, other agencies potentially holding Epstein-related documents, such as the CIA, have not commented on the issue.
Meanwhile, Musk has deleted some of his posts on X, including one in which he said Trump was named in the Epstein files. He also deleted a tweet announcing his intention to decommission SpaceX&#8217;s Dragon spacecraft.
"I will apologize profusely as soon as there is a full dump of the Epstein files," Musk said in a post which was deleted later on. 
Why It Matters: Musk&#8217;s allegations, though unsubstantiated, have the potential to significantly impact the political landscape. 
The controversy could fuel further investigations into Trump&#8217;s association with Epstein and the undisclosed files. The situation also raises questions about the transparency of government agencies and their willingness to disclose potentially sensitive information. 
The public&#8217;s perception of these high-profile individuals and institutions may be significantly influenced by the unfolding of these events.
Read Next
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<h4 class="wp-block-heading"></h4>

Elon Musk's Bombshell About Donald Trump in Epstein Docs: Here's the Truth Behind the Claim

Global gold supply is expected to grow by 1% in 2025, according to Metal Focus. The precious metals consultancy is expecting this growth from fresh gains in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mining">mine production</a>.
The <a href="https://www.metalsfocus.com/product/gold-focus/">annual publication</a>, which provides comprehensive data and forecasts for the gold market, notes the complex environment characterized by higher supply and a decline in demand from jewelry fabrication, which is expected to weaken by 9%.
Despite this demand factor, the consultancy anticipates gold prices to set a new record annual average of $3,210 per ounce, driven by investor unease over the economic and geopolitical climate.
In 2024, mine output rose to an all-time high of 3,661 metric tons and is expected to increase slightly again to 3,694 tons this year. This growth stems from new mining projects and the continued strength in countries such as Mexico, Ghana, and Canada. Recycling activity, which reached a 12-year high of 1,368 tons last year thanks to substantial contributions from China, is expected to remain flat in 2025 due to constrained near-market stocks and persistent bullish sentiment.
Regardless of the expected increase in overall supply, the market has limited room for maneuver, as the projected surplus of 840 tons is relatively modest in the context of global demand and investment flows.
Retail demand, however, is under pressure. Jewelry fabrication decreased by 9% in 2024 and is projected to decline by a steeper 16% in 2025, with the largest impact in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/08/40403404/rising-gold-prices-take-the-shine-off-chow-sang-sang">price-sensitive regions</a> such as India and China.
High prices are proving a deterrent, though some resilience remains in other regions when adjusting for the dramatic rise in value. Industrial demand has been surprisingly strong, especially in the electronics sector, where the surge in AI-driven technology has led to a 9% increase in consumption for 2024. This trend is expected to continue, with a further 3% growth anticipated this year. However, other segments, like dental and decorative applications, are showing signs of decline, reflecting ongoing long-term structural shifts.
Yet, investment interest remains strong, especially among institutions and Asian retail investors. Furthermore, a volatile global environment and a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/05/45617358/gold-demand-holds-firm-as-dollar-confidence-wavers">strengthening de-dollarization</a> sentiment have driven diversification strategies. Fears regarding the escalation of U.S. debt, interest rate trajectories, and potential trade conflicts under the Trump administration have all contributed to this trend.
Central banks&#8217; continued buying plays a notable role. In 2024, these institutions<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/02/43512109/gold-extends-records-as-central-banks-rush-to-buy-bullion-miners-eye-sixth-straight-winning-week"> purchased a record 1,086 tons</a>, while expectations for 2025 are set at 1,000 tons. It is the fourth consecutive year of banks buying, showing the importance of gold as a hedge against the risks mentioned above. Although Metal Focus notes that some price corrections may occur due to speculative activity, the broader outlook remains highly supportive.
Price Watch: SPDR Gold Shares (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>) is up 26.04% year-to-date.
Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/06/45819573/silver-tops-36-triggering-a-generational-technical-breakout"> Silver Tops $36, Triggering A Generational Technical Breakout</a>

Commodities

Global Gold Supply To Grow 1% In 2025, Report Shows

JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) is predicting that the S&amp;P 500 will reach unprecedented levels, even amidst the current market instability.
What Happened: In its mid-year outlook, JPMorgan has advised investors to brace for a period of volatility and irregular trading conditions, largely due to the potential repercussions of President Donald Trump&#8216;s tariff policy on economic growth and corporate earnings. Despite this, the bank maintains that these tariffs will not disrupt the enduring bull market.
In its <a href="https://www.jpmorgan.com/content/dam/jpmorgan/documents/wealth-management/mid-year-outlook-2025.pdf">report</a>, JPMorgan has indicated that the White House is implementing strategies to sustain the upward trend of the S&amp;P 500. 
The bank also forecasts that the rise to new all-time highs in the stock market will be significantly fueled by tech stocks, due to robust earnings, relatively undervalued valuations, and the progression of artificial intelligence.
&#8220;Choppy markets may last for a while, but key developed market equity markets, United States, Europe, Japan, should make new highs by the middle of next year. After all, equity markets love to climb the proverbial ‘wall of worry,&#8221; the company said in the report. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44891073/donald-trumps-trade-war-jpmorgan-predicts-deals-higher-taxes-and-potential-recession-avoidance">Donald Trump&#8217;s Trade War: JPMorgan Predicts Deals, Higher Taxes and Potential Recession Avoidance</a>
&#8220;Tech stocks could get a second wind: Company earnings are strong, and valuations are not excessive. What's more, we're big believers in the long-term potential of AI,&#8221; the report added. 
However, JPMorgan&#8217;s CEO Jamie Dimon has cautioned against &#8220;extraordinary optimism&#8221; among investors, who appear to be disregarding the potential adverse impacts of the President&#8217;s tariffs.
Why It Matters: The forecast from JPMorgan, a leading financial institution, provides a significant insight into the potential future of the stock market. Despite the current market turbulence, the bank&#8217;s prediction of new record highs for the S&amp;P 500 indicates a belief in the resilience and potential of the U.S. economy.
The bank&#8217;s expectation&nbsp;that tech stocks will play&nbsp;a crucial role in driving the market&#8217;s rise underscores the growing importance of the technology sector in the U.S. economy. 
This prediction also highlights the potential investment opportunities within this sector, particularly given the ongoing advancements in artificial intelligence.
However, the cautionary note from JPMorgan&#8217;s CEO serves as a reminder to investors of the potential risks associated with market volatility and the impacts of trade policies. 
This underscores the importance of careful investment planning and risk management.
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JP Morgan Forecasts S&P 500 To Hit Record Highs Amid Market Volatility, Says US Markets Climbing 'Wall of Worry'

Many parents want to set their children up for more financial success than what they had growing up. It's a noble goal that may sound challenging, but financial TikToker Vincent Chan recently revealed a simple roadmap for <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@vincentchanco/video/7511319332568223009?lang=en">making your children rich</a>.
"It's a lot easier than you think," he explained.&nbsp;
You've heard of investing, traditional retirement accounts, and Roth IRAs, but Chan is talking about a different account that most people are underutilizing. Here's how you can make your children rich.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Start A 529 Plan</h2>
A 529 Plan is one of the best tax-advantaged accounts for building wealth. This account does not have a maximum contribution limit, and the money grows tax-free. If you're single, you can give up to $19,000 per year for each child. However, if you are married, you can give each child up to $38,000 per year without having those contributions count toward your lifetime gift tax exemption.
You can only use 529 plan funds for educational expenses like college and school supplies. Paying for your child's education will give them a tremendous head start, but that's not the only benefit of this account.&nbsp;
You don't even have to wait until you have children to create one of these accounts. Individuals can create 529 plans for themselves and list their children as beneficiaries later. You can save for your child's financial future before you even get married.
Trending: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Invest The Money And Watch It Grow</h2>
You don't have to make flashy financial moves to make your children rich. Chan recommends investing the money and watching it grow instead of trying to time the stock market or use options.&nbsp;
Most investors just have to find a good ETF that tracks a popular benchmark like the S&amp;P 500 or Nasdaq Composite. These ETFs are already diversified, and you can find ETFs that align with your long-term financial goals.&nbsp;
Your children won't be able to access the money for a while, so it's usually a good idea to take a growth-oriented approach with these accounts. They have plenty of time to ride market volatility and corrections before they can access the money.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Good Money Habits Will Make It Better</h2>
A 529 savings plan is a great resource to cultivate generational wealth, but you still have to practice good money habits to make annual contributions. Chan regularly teaches people how to establish good money habits, but it rarely involves doing anything out of the ordinary.
Chances are you know about most of the good money habits. Creating a budget, knowing your expenses, picking up a side hustle, investing your money, and pursuing career opportunities that boost your income are some of the top money habits.&nbsp;
Building wealth for your children now can give you more motivation to stick with long-term financial goals and develop discipline. It's easier to act upon goals when you have a purpose that is bigger than yourself, and most people discover something bigger than themselves when they become parents.&nbsp;
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
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Vincent Chan Unveils How You Can Make Your Children Rich: 'It's A Lot Easier Than You Think'

Elon Musk has responded to President Donald Trump&#8216;s comments about potentially canceling his federal contracts, stating, &#8220;Fair enough.&#8221;
What Happened: In a post on X, on Friday, Musk responded to a statement by President Trump, who suggested that he might review Musk&#8217;s contracts due to the substantial subsidies he receives. The President&#8217;s statement was shared by a Twitter user, DogeDesigner, to which Musk replied, &#8220;Fair enough.&#8221;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Fair enough
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1931181466488053883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
President Trump&#8217;s comments came in response to a question about Musk&#8217;s contracts, where he said, &#8220;We&#8217;ll&nbsp;take a look at everything.&nbsp;He&#8217;s&nbsp;got a lot of money.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/06/45827390/musk-vs-trump-tesla-suffers-record-152b-one-day-crash-as-ceo-warns-tariffs-will-cause-a-recession-up">Musk Vs. Trump: Tesla Suffers Record $152B One-Day Crash As CEO Warns Tariffs &#8216;Will Cause A Recession&#8217;</a>
He gets a lot of&nbsp;subsidy, so we&#8217;ll&nbsp;take a look at that&nbsp;only if it&#8217;s&nbsp;fair for him and for&nbsp;the country. I would certainly&nbsp;think about it yeah but&nbsp;it has to be fair.&#8221;
Why It Matters: Musk&#8217;s response to President Trump&#8217;s comments has drawn attention due to the potential implications for his businesses. 
The tech mogul&#8217;s companies, including&nbsp;SpaceX&nbsp;and&nbsp;Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), have received significant government subsidies in the past. A review of these contracts could impact the financial standing of Musk&#8217;s companies.
However, Musk&#8217;s nonchalant response suggests that he is not overly concerned about the potential review. This could indicate his confidence in the fairness and necessity of the subsidies his companies receive.
Read Next
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Trump vs. Musk: Trump Hints at Canceling Musk's Contracts: 'We'll Take a Look at Everything, He's Got a Lot of Money.' Here's How Musk Responded

Mark Cuban knows how to troll with a purpose—especially when Elon Musk is involved. But when he sent Musk a congratulatory text for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44333836/built-like-a-juggernaut-with-a-solid-heart-of-gold-shivon-zilis-shares-tribute-to-her-newborn-son-with-elon-musk">birth of yet another child</a>, he didn't expect a reply that sounded straight out of a sci-fi pitch meeting: "Mars needs people."
That's not a punchline. That's the actual text Cuban says he got back.
In a 2022 <a href="https://youtu.be/L_8wm30tLyc?si=hDUjVR1lzQrCgh0b">appearance on the "Full Send Podcast"</a>, Cuban got real about the limits of AI, the longevity of human health, and, naturally, Musk. "He's a different dude," Cuban said, when asked whether they'd ever be close. "I know Elon like a tiny bit. He had another kid—this is before the last three or whatever—and I'm like, ‘Dude, congratulations. How many are you going to have?' He goes—sends me a text back—‘Mars needs people.'" Cuban added, "That's what he does."
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Cue stunned laughter from the podcast hosts. Cuban shrugged, "I don't think he likes me."
And while the line reads like a classic Musk troll, he's dead serious about it. Musk has long argued that humanity's best shot at survival is becoming a multiplanetary species. He's repeatedly said Earth is vulnerable—nuclear war, pandemics, rogue AI—and wants to build a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45612033/elon-musk-touts-spacexs-starship-rocket-ahead-of-launch-says-it-can-reach-mars-in-six-months">self-sustaining city on Mars</a> with up to a million people by 2050. So yeah, when he says "Mars needs people," he's not joking—he's recruiting.
By 2024, Cuban was still retelling the story—this time on <a href="https://youtu.be/fiK6IWhDbWU?si=1R19dO6tXBmcG5sj">"This Past Weekend with Theo Von"</a>—adding a little more context and a few more jabs. "I helped him with something, or tried to, so I had his number," Cuban recalled. "He had a kid and I'm like, ‘Congrats on your 97th kid,' and he texts me back: ‘Mars needs people.' And I'm like, that's funny as f&#x2A;&#x2A;&#x2A;."
But the bromance stops there.
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
Cuban said things got a little rockier when he tweeted something less-than-glowing about Tesla. Musk didn't take it well. "He just sends me a text with the article and it says, ‘F&#x2A;&#x2A;&#x2A; you.' That's it. Just ‘F&#x2A;&#x2A;&#x2A; you,'" Cuban laughed.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45606874/mark-cuban-calls-elon-musk-thin-skinned-but-still-owns-a-tesla-says-hed-rather-drive-his-electric-kia-because-it-doesnt-try-to-be-too-fancy">"He's thin-skinned,"</a> Cuban continued, noting that Musk has <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/dereksaul/2024/01/09/elon-musk-calls-mark-cuban-racist-over-dei-support-as-feud-continues/">since called him a "racist,"</a> hit him with the infamous poop emoji, and hurled other insults. "That just gives me license to f&#x2A;&#x2A;&#x2A; with him even more," Cuban said. "I don't give a f&#x2A;&#x2A;&#x2A; what he thinks."
Despite the name-calling, Cuban made it clear he still respects Musk's entrepreneurial streak. "SpaceX, Starlink, Tesla—dude's the entrepreneur of our generation," he said. "There's nobody close."
Even with that praise, Cuban's stance is unbothered. "He says some stupid s&#x2A;&#x2A;&#x2A;," he admitted. "And I have no problem calling him out."
As for whether they'll ever squash the beef?
Probably not. But Cuban seems just fine keeping the banter alive—<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45425598/elon-musks-dad-says-its-wonderful-he-has-14-kids-and-doesnt-need-to-follow-so-called-morals-hes-not-married-h">one Mars baby joke at a time</a>.
Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
Image: Shutterstock

Mark Cuban Says Elon Musk Is a 'Different Dude' — He Joked 'Congrats on Your 97th Kid' And Got the Wildest Response: 'Mars Needs People'

A Florida family thought they were upgrading their kitchen. Instead, they say they got a disaster — one that soaked their home, drained their finances, and may soon head to court.
<a href="https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2025/05/20/jacksonville-family-forced-to-deal-with-700k-worth-of-damages-after-costco-fridge-installation-goes-awry/">According to WJXT-TV</a>'s News4JAX in Jacksonville, Saint. John's resident Bradley Byrd and his family purchased a $3,500 KitchenAid refrigerator <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/05/45248740/charlie-munger-says-the-secret-is-to-find-costcos-not-good-exits-saying-his-wealth-came-from-relentless-holding-and-not-slick-sell-signals">from Costco</a> in December. The fridge was delivered and installed by a third-party company contracted by the warehouse-club chain — but just six hours later, Byrd got a FaceTime call from his daughter that stopped him cold.
"Dad, the house is underwater," she told him.
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Byrd rushed home to find water flooding the floors. Video footage he later shared shows the damage: soaked carpets, standing water, and furniture floating. The family says the refrigerator's water line had been installed incorrectly — a critical error that allegedly caused the line to rupture after being pinched beneath the fridge's wheels.
"They allowed the refrigerator's wheels to sit on a line, which caused a crack that grew larger and larger," Byrd told News4JAX.
The result? Mold, structural damage, and a $700,000 headache, according to a public adjuster's estimate. The family was forced to evacuate their home just before Christmas and spent months living in an Airbnb. They've since returned, but Byrd says their home is still partially unlivable — with no working kitchen or bathroom, and lawn chairs and folding tables standing in for real furniture.
"We purchased these lovely tables to prepare food on and to eat at," Byrd said, with dry irony.
So far, Byrd estimates he's spent around $300,000 out-of-pocket on remediation, storage, testing, and repairs. While Costco has provided $38,000 for temporary living expenses and — according to Byrd — offered $175,000 toward damages, the family has not accepted the settlement. Legal action is now on the table.
Trending: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
News4JAX reports that its team reached out to Costco multiple times via phone, email, and social media. As of publication, the company had not responded. The contractor responsible for delivery and installation, RXO Last Mile, declined to comment, reportedly stating that the issue is not its to resolve
"They drop the ball and are hoping that I foot the bill with my life savings for their bottom line," Byrd told News4JAX.
He's now documenting the ordeal publicly on CostcoWaterDamage.com and even paid for local billboards to raise awareness. His site includes a detailed cost breakdown, showing the scope of the damage and his mounting expenses, which include:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>$360,000 in estimated damage to the home</li>
<li>$76,000 in personal property losses</li>
<li>$78,000 in alternative housing expenses</li>
<li>$117,000 for mitigation, moving, and storage</li>
<li>$72,000 in professional services and legal preparation</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Who's Liable?</h2>
At the center of the story is a growing concern many <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/02/37313709/warren-buffett-has-spent-66-years-in-the-same-home-and-warns-a-house-can-be-a-nightmare-heres-what-h">homeowners may not think about:</a> who's responsible when a third-party contractor makes a mistake? Costco contracts out appliance installations to outside vendors — in this case, RXO — and the legal responsibility for any errors may ultimately depend on what's proven in court.
While Costco did provide some assistance, the Byrds say it's not nearly enough. As of now, no lawsuit has been filed, but Byrd told News4JAX, "I think that, unfortunately, is the next step."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can Homeowners Protect Themselves?</h2>
This case has raised questions about what recourse homeowners have when something goes wrong with a professional installation. In many cases, appliance damage caused by poor installation may not be fully covered by a <a href="https://www.progressive.com/answers/does-home-insurance-cover-appliances/">standard homeowners insurance policy</a> — especially if the damage is considered preventable or due to contractor error.
Some experts suggest:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Always photograph the installation as it happens</li>
<li>Check water lines and electrical connections before accepting delivery</li>
<li>Request the installer's credentials and inquire whether the work is bonded or insured</li>
<li>Consider supplemental liability insurance or home warranties that cover third-party work</li>
</ul>
As for the Byrds, they're still hoping for resolution — and a return to normal life. Until then, their kitchen remains unfinished, their bathroom nonfunctional, and their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/04/38277365/grant-cardone-gives-7-reasons-why-you-should-rent-instead-of-buying-a-home">story a cautionary tale</a> for anyone who assumes a fridge upgrade is as simple as plug-and-play.
Read Next: The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?
Image: Shutterstock

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