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These ten large-cap stocks were top performers last week. Are they a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas" rel="noreferrer noopener">part of your portfolio</a>?
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Astera Labs, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALAB#NASDAQ">ALAB</a>) stock gained 30.68% last week after the company reported better-than-expected Q2 financial results and issued <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/08/46909372/astera-labs-stock-is-ripping-higher-whats-driving-the-momentum" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Q3 guidance above estimates.</a></li>
<li>Nebius Group N.V. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NBIS#NASDAQ">NBIS</a>) stock gained 29.97% last week after it reported second-quarter revenue of $105.1 million, up 625% year-over-year and up 106% on a quarter-over-quarter basis. The revenue increase was driven by continued strong demand from increasing AI use cases, growth in adoption and the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46961930/whats-going-on-with-nebius-group-stock-thursday" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expansion of the company's client base.</a></li>
<li>Shopify Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHOP#NASDAQ">SHOP</a>) stock gained 24.24% last week after the company reported better-than-expected second-quarter sales. Also, multiple analysts<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/08/46967247/shopify-fires-on-all-cylinders-as-q2-results-trigger-bullish-analyst-forecasts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> raised their price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>CoreWeave, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWV#NASDAQ">CRWV</a>) stock soared 21.81% last week. The company is scheduled to announce its second-quarter <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/07/b46586469/coreweave-announces-date-of-second-quarter-2025-financial-results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">results on August 12.</a></li>
<li>Gold Fields Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GFI#NYSE">GFI</a>) stock<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/movers" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> gained 17.54% last week.</a></li>
<li>Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) stock gained 17.73% last week after the company reported better-than-expected second-quarter financial results, issued third-quarter sales guidance above estimates, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/08/47003196/palantir-technologies-stock-hits-a-new-all-time-high-whats-going-on" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">raised its FY25 sales guidance.</a></li>
<li>Applovin Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APP#NASDAQ">APP</a>) stock gained 17.22% last week. The company reported third-quarter financial results. Also, multiple analysts raised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/08/46966984/whats-going-on-with-applovin-stock-thursday" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the price forecast on the stock.</a></li>
<li>BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BWXT#NYSE">BWXT</a>) stock gained 18.46% last week after  the company reported better-than-expected Q2 financial<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/08/b46839582/bwx-technologies-reports-second-quarter-2025-results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> results and raised its FY25 guidance.</a></li>
<li>Arista Networks, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ANET#NYSE">ANET</a>) stock gained 19.79% last week after the company reported better-than-expected second-quarter financial results. Also, multiple analysts raised the price forecas<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/08/46918902/why-arista-networks-stock-is-skyrocketing-wednesday" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">t on the stock.</a></li>
<li>Pan American Silver Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PAAS#NYSE">PAAS</a>) stock gained 16.65% last week after the company reported better-than-expected<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/08/b46928952/pan-american-silver-reports-unaudited-second-quarter-2025-results" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> second-quarter financial results.</a></li>
</ol>
Read Next
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/08/46817306/six-months-in-trump-struggles-to-sell-his-economic-vision-to-skeptical-americans" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Six Months In, Trump Struggles To Sell His Economic Vision To Skeptical Americans</a></li>
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Shopify, Palantir, And Applovin Are Among Top Large Cap Gainers Last Week (August 4-August 8): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

U.S.–Russia ceasefire feelers set the backdrop as President Donald Trump&#8217;s surprise gold-bar tariff and broader trade moves met resilient tech earnings, lifting Wall Street after a jobs miss and June inflation uptick, while oil<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> pared losses .</a>
Reports from Washington and Moscow indicate exploratory talks on a Ukraine ceasefire that could formalize some Russian territorial gains, with a Trump–Putin summit under consideration next week.
On trade, President Donald Trump announced a surprise U.S. import tariff on gold bars, a move seen pressuring Switzerland&#8217;s refining industry; the New York futures–spot spread widened to a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/08/46999430/trump-tariffs-gold-switzerland-federal-reserves" rel="noreferrer noopener">record $90/oz as bullion edged 0.1% higher to $3,400/oz.</a>
Also Read:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46949685/zuck-poaching-effect-pushes-openai-to-announce-1-5-million-bonus-for-all-employees-even-new-hires-says-tech-entrepreneur" rel="noreferrer noopener"> &#8216;Zuck Poaching Effect&#8217; Pushes OpenAI To Announce $1.5 Million Bonus For All Employees—Even New Hires, Says Tech Entrepreneur</a>
On the tariff front, Trump&nbsp;doubled duties on Indian imports to 50%, targeting New Delhi&#8217;s purchase and resale<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/market-summary/25/08/47014113/weekly-market-review-apple-trump-tariffs-india-waller" rel="noreferrer noopener"> of Russian crude.</a>
He also confirmed a 39% tariff on Swiss imports and imposed new duties on one-kilogram gold bars, a move that could pressure Swiss gold refineries and disrupt the gold futures market.
After last week&#8217;s declines—sparked by a weaker-than-expected jobs report and a June inflation uptick—<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/magnificent-seven" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wall Street rebounded as earnings momentum remained firm.</a>
In commodities, oil briefly dipped below $64/bbl before paring losses, positioning to end a six-session slide.
Earnings:
Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) reported second-quarter revenue of $1.004 billion, beating&nbsp;analyst estimates of $939.71 million. The company reported second-quarter adjusted earnings of 16 cents per share, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46840353/palantir-q2-earnings-revenue-eps-beat-estimates-company-raises-guidance-citing-astonishing-impact-of-ai-leverage" rel="noreferrer noopener">beating analyst estimates of 14 cents per share</a>.
Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>) reported second-quarter revenue growth of 18% year-on-year to $12.65 billion, beating the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46902272/uber-q2-earnings-trips-surge-20-billion-stock-buyback-ceo-sees-no-slowdown" rel="noreferrer noopener">analyst consensus estimate&nbsp;of $12.46 billion.</a>
Airbnb, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABNB#NASDAQ">ABNB</a>) reported $3.1 billion in revenue in second-quarter, up 13% year-over-year, and ahead of consensus<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/reiteration/25/08/46977375/airbnb-impresses-with-earnings-yet-wall-street-flags-travel-headwinds-and-tougher-comps" rel="noreferrer noopener"> estimates at $3.03 billion.&nbsp;</a>
Shopify Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHOP#NASDAQ">SHOP</a>) reported adjusted EPS of 35 cents in the second quarter, up 34.6% year over year, but missed the&nbsp;analyst <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46904989/shopify-stock-pops-on-strong-sales-global-momentum-cfo-highlights-merchant-surge-across-regions" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus&nbsp;estimate&nbsp;of 29 cents.</a>
DoorDash, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DASH#NASDAQ">DASH</a>) reported second-quarter earnings of&nbsp;65&nbsp;cents per share, which beat the analyst <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46927549/doordash-stock-climbs-after-q2-report-orders-up-20-revenue-up-25-yoy" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus estimate of&nbsp;43&nbsp;cents.</a>
Super Micro Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) reported fourth-quarter net sales of $5.76 billion, up from $4.6 billion in the third quarter and $5.4 billion<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46872363/super-micro-computer-q4-earnings-highlights-shares-fall-on-double-miss-lower-guidance" rel="noreferrer noopener"> in last year&#8217;s fourth quarter.</a>
Datadog, Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DDOG#NASDAQ">DDOG</a>) &nbsp;fiscal second-quarter&nbsp;revenue increased 28% year-over-year&nbsp;to $826.76 million, beating the&nbsp;analyst <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46969076/datadog-raises-full-year-outlook-after-125-ai-feature-launches-but-openai-pullback-clouds-long-term-growth" rel="noreferrer noopener">consensus estimate&nbsp;of $790.97 million</a>.
Block, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XYZ#NYSE">XYZ</a>) reported second-quarter earnings of 62 cents per share, which <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46982165/block-stock-climbs-after-q2-earnings-report-heres-why" rel="noreferrer noopener">missed the analyst consensus estimate of 68 cents</a>.
The Trade Desk, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TTD#NASDAQ">TTD</a>) reported second-quarter earnings of&nbsp;41&nbsp;cents per share, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46981305/the-trade-desk-stock-plunges-after-q2-earnings-report-details" rel="noreferrer noopener">which is in line with the analyst estimate.</a>
Applovin Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APP#NASDAQ">APP</a>) reported second-quarter revenue of $1.26 billion, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46927942/applovin-q2-earnings-revenue-miss-eps-beat-shares-slide" rel="noreferrer noopener">missing analyst&nbsp;estimates of $1.31 billion</a>.
Rivian Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) reported second-quarter net sales of $1.303 billion, up 5.1% year-over-year. The revenue beat a<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46872875/rivian-q2-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-miss-delivery-guidance-stays-on-track-but-with-heavier-losses" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Street consensus estimate of $1.29 billion.</a>
Technology:
Intel Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) CEO&nbsp;Lip-Bu Tan has responded to calls for his resignation by President&nbsp;Donald Trump, asserting his loyalty to the U.S. and his <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46993754/intel-ceo-responds-to-trumps-call-for-resignation-over-china-ties-says-board-fully-supportive-my-reputation-has-been" rel="noreferrer noopener">commitment to the company&#8217;s success.</a>
Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) has confirmed a data breach that has affected some of its customers. The breach was attributed to a hacking group known as ShinyHunters, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46955003/google-confirms-its-salesforce-database-hacked-shinyhunters-strike-again" rel="noreferrer noopener">also referred to as UNC6040.</a>
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>) stock jumped following confirmation from Taiwanese officials that the world&#8217;s largest contract chipmaker is exempt from President&nbsp;Donald Trump&#8217;s proposed 100%<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/08/46947393/apple-nvidia-supplier-tsmc-surges-nearly-5-in-overnight-trade-as-taipei-says-chip-giant-exempt-from-trumps-100-chip-tariffs" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;tariffs on semiconductor chips.</a>
Wedbush&nbsp;Securities&#8217;&nbsp;Dan Ives&nbsp;has warned that&nbsp;Apple Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>)&nbsp;failure to innovate in artificial intelligence could tarnish CEO&nbsp;Tim Cook&#8217;s&nbsp;legacy, as other tech giants<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/47018540/apples-in-f1-race-while-tim-cook-sips-lemonade-on-park-bench-dan-ives-warns-ai-misstep-could-stain-his-legacy" rel="noreferrer noopener"> race ahead in the AI revolution.</a>
Artificial Intelligence:
OpenAI, a leading artificial intelligence (AI) company, has introduced its latest AI chatbot, GPT-5, which it claims offers expertise at a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46995470/openai-unveils-gpt-5-with-phd-level-expertise-more-authenticity-industry-call-for-scrutiny" rel="noreferrer noopener">PhD level in various fields.</a>
Trump Media &amp; Technology Group Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DJT#NASDAQ">DJT</a>) &nbsp;rolled out public beta testing of its new AI-powered search feature&nbsp;on the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46919491/trump-media-perplexity-partner-to-bring-ai-powered-search-to-truth-social" rel="noreferrer noopener">Truth Social platform.</a>
The firm has partnered with&nbsp;Perplexity&nbsp;to introduce&nbsp;Truth Search AI&nbsp;in its web interface, with mobile testing on iOS and Android slated to begin soon.
Automobiles:
President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;has defended&nbsp;Tesla, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO&nbsp;Elon Musk&nbsp;amid backlash over the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46953333/trump-calls-elon-musk-a-good-person-amid-backlash-over-the-tesla-ceos-politics" rel="noreferrer noopener"> billionaire&#8217;s political activities.</a>
Tesla has pulled the plug on its&nbsp;Dojo Supercomputer team, responsible for developing in-house AI capabilities, including self-driving chips <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46989375/tesla-scraps-dojo-supercomputer-ai-team-as-elon-musk-abandons-internal-chip-effort-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">and AI model training efforts.</a>
Ford Motor Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) will reportedly delay plans to develop an all-electric pickup truck as well as a van to push for smaller, affordable electric vehicles <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46992346/ford-delays-plans-for-electric-pickup-van-to-2028-amid-affordable-ev-push-due-to-stiff-competition-from-china" rel="noreferrer noopener">amid rising competition from China.</a>
General Motors Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>) will import LFP batteries from China&#8217;s&nbsp;Contemporary Amperex Technology Limited, or&nbsp;CATL, until its partner, Korea&#8217;s&nbsp;LG Energy Solutions, can ramp <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/46993116/gm-to-import-chinese-batteries-from-catl-for-chevy-bolt-until-lg-ramps-us-production" rel="noreferrer noopener">up domestic battery production in the U.S.</a>
The firm has announced a partnership with Korean automaker&nbsp;Hyundai Motor Co., Ltd. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HYMTF#OTC">HYMTF</a>)&nbsp;to develop over 5 new models amid rising competition from Chinese automakers.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/08/46885394/amazon-opens-used-vehicle-listings-to-dealers-across-us-starting-in-la-with-over-130-cities-in-pipeline" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Amazon Opens Used Vehicle Listings To Dealers Across US, Starting In LA With Over 130 Cities In Pipeline</a></li>
</ul>

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DDOG

GOOG

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TSLA

UBER

Consumer Tech News (August 4–August 8): Earnings From Palantir, Uber, Shopify & More Amid Trump's Tariff Saga

The past week has been a whirlwind of news in the world of cryptocurrency and finance. From Robert Kiyosaki&#8217;s bold predictions of the U.S. Federal Reserve to President Donald Trump&#8217;s potential penalties on banks, there&#8217;s a lot to unpack.
Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories of the week.
Robert Kiyosaki: Trump&#8217;s Crypto Vision
Author Robert Kiyosaki has offered his insights on the future of the U.S. Federal Reserve in light of recent developments in cryptocurrency policy. Kiyosaki believes that Trump&#8217;s dedication to making the U.S. a global hub for cryptocurrency could lead to the dissolution of the Federal Reserve. However, no official steps have been taken to either remove Fed Chairman Jerome Powell or disband the central bank.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/08/46817165/robert-kiyosaki-donald-trump-just-fired-the-marxist-fed-to-make-america-the-crypto-capital">Read the full article here.</a>
Trump&#8217;s Penalties On Discriminatory Banks
The White House is reportedly preparing an executive order to impose penalties on banks accused of discriminating against conservatives and cryptocurrency firms. The news came out on Monday, but details about the potential penalties remain unclear.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/08/46847545/trump-prepares-to-impose-penalty-on-banks-found-to-discriminate-against-conservatives-crypto-firms-">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/08/46947431/xrp-trades-higher-on-crypto-market-rebound-analyst-sets-price-target-at-7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">XRP Trades Higher On Crypto Market Rebound — Analyst Sets Price Target At $7</a>
Bitcoin: The Digital Real Estate?
Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) is being redefined by institutions, not as a volatile asset, but as digital infrastructure similar to real estate. This perspective was shared by Fundstrat co-founder and Bitmine chairman Tom Lee, who compared owning Bitcoin to owning the land under a McDonald&#8216;s franchise.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/08/46861936/fundstrats-tom-lee-owning-bitcoin-is-like-owning-land-under-a-mcdonalds">Read the full article here.</a>
Scaramucci&#8217;s Endorsement Of Avalanche
SkyBridge Capital founder and cryptocurrency advocate Anthony Scaramucci has endorsed the Avalanche network, suggesting it is on the brink of significant growth.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/08/46958926/anthony-scaramucci-thinks-this-ethereum-killer-networks-moment-is-coming-here-is-why">Read the full article here.</a>
Arthur Hayes&#8217; Bitcoin and Ethereum Predictions
Arthur Hayes, Chief Investment Officer of Maelstrom and co-founder of BitMEX, anticipates a sharp correction in Bitcoin and Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) due to potential macroeconomic jitters. Hayes believes that a speculated U.S. tariff bill in the third quarter, along with the release of the lower-than-expected July jobs data, is likely to exert increased macroeconomic pressure.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/08/46818995/arthur-hayes-expects-bitcoins-pullback-to-100000-ethereum-to-test-3000-on-trump-tariffs-induced-headwinds">Read the full article here.</a>
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/22/11/29640123/just-in-crypto-com-suspends-these-withdrawals-deposits-on-solana-chain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Just In: Crypto.com Suspends These Withdrawals, Deposits On Solana Chain</a></li>
</ul>
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: Volodymyr Maksymchuk on Shutterstock.com

$ETH

Trump Targets Banks For Crypto Bias, Scaramucci Flags 'Ethereum Killer,' Kiyosaki Slams 'Marxist Fed' As BTC Booms — This Week In Crypto

Each week, Benzinga&#8217;s Stock Whisper Index uses a combination of proprietary data and pattern recognition to showcase five stocks that are just under the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/stock-whisper-index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface and deserve attention</a>.
Investors are constantly on the hunt for undervalued, under-followed and emerging stocks. With countless methods available to retail traders, the challenge often lies in sifting through the abundance of information to uncover new opportunities and understand why certain stocks should be of interest.
Read Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/06/46157351/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-71" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: June's 20 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro — Where Do CoreWeave, Nvidia, Apple Stock Rank?</a>
Here's a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending August 8:
 Crown Holdings Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCK#NYSE">CCK</a>): The metal packaging company saw increased interest from readers during the week. The interest comes after the company reported second quarter results on July 22. The company beat analyst estimates for earnings per share for a sixth straight quarter. The company also beat analyst estimates for revenue in the quarter, which was a fourth straight beat. Analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/CCK/analyst-ratings">raised their price targets </a>after the quarterly results and as Crown Holdings reported strong third-quarter guidance and raised its full-year earnings per share estimates.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0808"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184127/Screenshot-526.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1021320" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184127/Screenshot-526.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184127/Screenshot-526-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184127/Screenshot-526-768x389.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>
Unum Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNM#NYSE">UNM</a>): The insurance company saw strong interest from investors during the week. Unum reported quarterly results on July 29 with earnings per share missing analyst estimates and revenue missing analyst estimates. The company also lowered its full-year earnings per share guidance after the miss. Several analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/UNM/analyst-ratings">lowered their price targets </a>after the results. With the company seeing strong interest and shares being down 5% year-to-date, the stock could be one to keep on the watchlist for a potential rebound.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0808"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="506" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184143/Screenshot-527.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1021321" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184143/Screenshot-527.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184143/Screenshot-527-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184143/Screenshot-527-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>
EMCOR Group Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EME#NYSE">EME</a>): Investors are paying more attention to electrical and mechanical construction company EMCOR Group. The interest likely comes from recent second quarter results. The company beat analyst estimates for earnings per share for a 10th straight quarter. The company also beat revenue estimates, which was the eighth beat in the last 10 quarters. Investors are also likely equally impressed with the company raising full-year guidance for both earnings per share and revenue. While shares trade at all-time highs, the company has been consistently beating analyst estimates and showing strong results. Several analyst<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/EME/analyst-ratings"> raised their price targets</a> ahead of the quarterly earnings and DA Davidson maintained a Buy rating and took the price target from $725 after the quarterly results.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0808"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="502" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184158/Screenshot-528.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1021322" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184158/Screenshot-528.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184158/Screenshot-528-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184158/Screenshot-528-768x386.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>
Agnico Eagle Mines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEM#NYSE">AEM</a>): Gold mining stocks have been popular among Benzinga readers in 2025 and many have found their way onto the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index. The latest candidate is Agnico Eagle Mines, which recently reported second quarter financial results. The company beat analyst estimates for both earnings per share and revenue. This was the company's seventh straight analyst beat for earnings per share and represented the sixth out of the last seven quarters beating revenue estimates. Agnico said it strengthened its balance sheet in the quarter, paying down long-term debt. Agnico was also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/08/46789957/dominion-energy-shake-shack-ethan-allen-interiors-cnbc-final-trades">recently a recommendation</a> by Blue Line Capital founder Bill Baruch on CNBC's "Halftime Report." Baruch highlighted that Agnico beat estimates and almost doubled its free cash flow from the previous quarter.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0808"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="494" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184216/Screenshot-529.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1021323" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184216/Screenshot-529.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184216/Screenshot-529-300x149.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184216/Screenshot-529-768x381.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>
Visa Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>): The well-known credit card company finds its way onto the list with increased interest from investors. The company recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/07/46705658/visa-q3-earnings-highlights-double-beat-ceo-says-consumer-spending-remains-resilient">reported third-quarter financial results</a>, beating both revenue and earnings per share estimates from analysts. Visa said its revenue growth was helped by year-over-year growth in payments volume, cross-border volume and processed transactions. Visa beat analyst estimates for earnings per share for a fourth straight quarter and for the ninth quarter out of the last 10 overall. The company also beat revenue estimates for a fourth straight quarter and ninth quarter out of the last 10. Analysts<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/V/analyst-ratings"> raised their price targets</a> on Visa stock after the quarter. There has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/07/46736888/visa-analyst-aution-lingers-over-outlook-and-valuation">been growing concern</a> over Visa's market share of global payments volume with growing competition and the rise in the use of cryptocurrency and stablecoins for payments worldwide. The company's recent quarterly results and commentary suggests that Visa remains a healthy player in the global financial markets.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0808"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="993" height="501" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184230/Screenshot-530.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1021324" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184230/Screenshot-530.png 993w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184230/Screenshot-530-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/09184230/Screenshot-530-768x387.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 993px) 100vw, 993px" /></a></figure>
Stay tuned for next week&#8217;s report, and follow Benzinga Pro for all the latest headlines and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0808" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>
Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46264224/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-72" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">July 4</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46381556/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-73" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">July 11</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46508365/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-74" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">July 18</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46648171/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-75" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">July 25</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/08/46815464/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-76">August 1</a></li>
</ul>
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Long Ideas

Exclusives

Trading Ideas

Benzinga's 'Stock Whisper' Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don't Talk About Yet

The past week was a rollercoaster ride for the market, with significant developments in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. From Rivian&#8217;s second-quarter earnings report to Lyft&#8217;s stock drop, the EV market hitting new records, Lucid facing near-term headwinds, and Tesla dominating used EV sales, there was no shortage of action. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top stories.
Rivian Automotive Inc&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) Q2 Earnings: A Mixed Bag
Rivian&nbsp;released its second-quarter financial results, which revealed a revenue beat but an EPS miss. Despite heavier losses, the company&#8217;s delivery guidance remains on track.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46872875/rivian-q2-earnings-revenue-beat-eps-miss-delivery-guidance-stays-on-track-but-with-heavier-losses">Read the full article here.</a>
LYFT Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LYFT#NASDAQ">LYFT</a>) Stock Takes A Hit Post Q2 Results
Lyft released its second-quarter results, which led to a drop in its stock. Despite beating the analyst consensus estimate with earnings of 10 cents per share, the market reacted negatively.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/08/46926739/lyft-stock-drops-after-q2-results-heres-why">Read the full article here.</a>
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42712707/tesla-offers-free-lifetime-supercharging-with-foundation-series-cybertruck-as-it-looks-to-clear-inventory" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla Offers Free Lifetime Supercharging With Foundation Series Cybertruck As It Looks To Clear Inventory</a>
Record-Breaking EV Market Share In Europe
The European EV market continues to dominate, with July hitting new records. Only 25 petrol-only vehicles were sold for the month, indicating a significant shift towards electric vehicles.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/08/46829947/evs-hit-record-98-in-this-country-here-are-the-leading-brands">Read the full article here.</a>
Lucid Group Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LCID#NASDAQ">LCID</a>) Faces Near-Term Headwinds Despite Uber Robotaxi Plans
Lucid Group shares fell after the EV maker reported disappointing second-quarter results. Despite plans for an Uber Robotaxi launch, the company faces near-term headwinds.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/08/46919762/lucid-2026-midsize-ev-uber-robotaxi-launch-to-boost-demand-but-near-term-headwinds-linger">Read the full article here.</a>
Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) Dominates Used EV Sales
Tesla continues to dominate the used EV sales on Carvana, with an electrified mix hitting a record 9%. The company reported that 9% of the unit sales were EVs and PHEVs in the second quarter of 2025, up from just over 2% in the same period in 2023.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/08/46989865/tesla-dominates-used-ev-sales-on-carvana-as-electrified-mix-hits-record-9">Read the full article here.</a>
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/esg/25/06/45739698/bill-gates-commits-majority-of-200-billion-foundation-budget-to-africa-over-next-20-years-amid-trumps-massive-usaid-cuts" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates Commits Majority Of $200 Billion Foundation Budget To Africa Over Next 20 Years Amid Trump's Massive USAID Cuts</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>

LCID

LYFT

Tesla Leads Used EV Sales In Record-Setting Week As Rivian Misses, Lyft Stock Falls, Lucid Faces Headwinds — This Week In Mobility

LULU Climbs Higher throughout the Session
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://contributor-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/08220928/Screenshot-2025-08-08-at-6.03.36%E2%80%AFPM-884x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-17170" /></figure>
Lululemon Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LULU#NASDAQ">LULU</a>) experienced a Power Inflow today, a significant event for those who follow where smart money goes and value order flow analytics in their trading decisions. 
Today, at 11:21 AM on August 8th, a significant trading signal occurred for Lululemon Inc. (LULU) as it demonstrated a Power Inflow at a price of $187.10. This indicator is crucial for traders who want to know directionally where institutions and so-called "smart money" moves in the market. They see the value of utilizing order flow analytics to guide their trading decisions. The Power Inflow points to a possible uptrend in Lululemon&#8217;s stock, marking a potential entry point for traders looking to capitalize on the expected upward movement. Traders with this signal closely watch for sustained momentum in Lululemon's stock price, interpreting this event as a bullish sign. Stock prices rise when there are more buyers than sellers. This is what Order Flow Analytics is about.
Signal description
Order flow analytics, aka transaction or market flow analysis, separate and study both the retail and institutional volume rate of orders (flow). It involves analyzing the flow of buy and sell orders, along with size, timing, and other associated characteristics and patterns, to gain insights and make more informed trading decisions. This particular indicator is interpreted as a bullish signal by active traders.&nbsp;
The Power Inflow occurs within the first two hours of the market open and generally signals the trend that helps gauge the stock's overall direction, powered by institutional activity in the stock, for the remainder of the day. This is listed as Large Deal flow on our platform.
By incorporating order flow analytics into their trading strategies, market participants can better interpret market conditions, identify trading opportunities, and potentially improve their trading performance. But let's not forget that while watching smart money flow can provide valuable insights, it is crucial to incorporate effective risk management strategies to protect capital and mitigate potential losses. Employing a consistent and effective risk management plan helps traders navigate the uncertainties of the market in a more controlled and calculated manner, increasing the likelihood of long-term success
If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for LULU,<a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174"> Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.&nbsp;
<a href="https://benzinga.com/apis?_gl=1&#x2A;1hlgn5i&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTY1NjE2NTYxMi4xNzE0NzQ4MTAy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDc0ODEwMi4xLjEuMTcxNDc0ODQyOC4wLjAuMA..">Market News and Data brought to you by Benzinga APIs</a> and include firms, like&nbsp; <a href="https://tradepulse.net/?utm_source=Benzinga&amp;utm_medium=Article&amp;utm_campaign=brand_awareness_Aug2025">https://tradepulse.net/?utm_source=Benzinga&amp;utm_medium=Article&amp;utm_campaign=brand_awareness_Aug2025</a>
which are responsible for parts of the data within this article.
After Market Close UPDATE:
The price at the time of the Power Inflow was $187.10. The returns on the High price ($190.12) and Close price ($189.43) after the Power Inflow are respectively 1.6% and 1.2%. The result underlines the importance of a trading plan that includes Profit Targets and Stop Losses that reflect your risk appetite.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, investment recommendations, or a solicitation to buy or sell securities. The analysis is based on stock order flow data, but accuracy is not guaranteed. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Please consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions.
Benzinga Disclaimer: This article is from an unpaid external contributor. It does not represent Benzinga&#8217;s reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.

Technicals

Opinion

Signals

LULU

Lululemon Athletica Stock Reverses Early Decline, Rises 1.6% After Key Signal

Elon Musk finished dead last in favorability in a recent Gallup poll asking Americans to assess 14 world figures.
What Happened:&nbsp;Musk&#8217;s approval ratings have taken a nosedive following his contentious tenure at the White House and the ensuing fallout with President Donald Trump. 
Musk&#8217;s actions have not only tarnished his personal image but have also triggered a substantial decline in Tesla&#8217;s sales and revenues.
The Gallup <a href="https://news.gallup.com/poll/693155/pope-leo-favorably-viewed-newsmakers.aspx">poll</a> showed that 61% of 1,000 randomly chosen American adults held a negative view of Musk. This follows Musk&#8217;s participation in the Department of Government Efficiency, his warnings about the difficulties under a Trump presidency, and his plans to revamp government agencies.
Before starting his White House work, Musk was viewed slightly more negatively than positively (43% favorable, 47% unfavorable). In the July poll, Musk&#8217;s favorable rating was 33% favorable, with 61% unfavorable &#8212; a 24-point downward swing.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/08/46817700/ex-trump-lawyer-says-trump-could-set-sights-on-musks-billions-it-bothers-him-that-he-is-the-richest-man">Ex-Trump Lawyer Says Trump Could Set Sights on Musk&#8217;s Billions: &#8216;It Bothers Him That He Is the Richest Man&#8217;</a>
The poll also shows a sharp drop in approval ratings for several current and former Trump administration figures, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Trump, signaling a turbulent run-up to next year's midterm elections.
The Gallup poll, conducted from July 7 to 21, revealed that Pope Leo XIV holds a net favorability score of +46, significantly higher than Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (+18) and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) (+11). Pope Leo&#8217;s 57% favorability rating aligns with the initial ratings of his predecessors, Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI. 
Simultaneously, French President Emmanuel Macron and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) received mixed reviews, with a large portion of respondents expressing neutrality. Conversely, personalities like Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were viewed unfavorably.
Why It Matters: The plummeting popularity of Musk, a key figure in the tech and automotive industries, could have far-reaching implications. 
His controversial actions and the resulting public sentiment could potentially influence consumer behavior and investor confidence, impacting not just Tesla but the broader electric vehicle market. 
The termination of the federal program involving Musk also raises questions about the future of public-private partnerships in the tech sector.
Read Next
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Politics

Elon Musk's Favorability Rating Among Americans Has Tanked Since January

One of New York City's hottest new clubs is a yoga studio in SoHo. Its address is a closely guarded secret, and the only way to gain admittance is by invitation of one of its 300 members.
Tera, whose red front door is currently trending all over social media, is selling more than just yoga classes— it's offering exclusivity for some of the city's wealthiest and best connected residents.&nbsp;
"With the referral, we&#8217;re almost filtering our clientele to be somewhat of the same person,&#8221; Tera founder Georgia Wood Murphy told <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/new-yorks-hottest-club-the-invite-only-gym-2025-7">Business Insider</a>. Their ideal clientele is someone "that wants to invest in wellness, that wants to be on trend, and a part of what&#8217;s hot in New York right now.&#8221;
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Tera isn't the only fitness studio building client lists off of referrals and exclusivity. According to the website, millennials and Gen Zers currently make up more than 80% of gymgoers. While their proclivity for regular workouts is great news for their overall health and fitness levels, it's bad news for your average gym.
With so many people popping in and out for their daily sweat sessions, gyms and fitness studios have become overcrowded. Finding yourself deep in line for the squat rack or on a waitlist for that afternoon pilates class has become a regular occurrence. Hence, the rise of the exclusive fitness club.
For their part, these studios take member curation quite seriously.&nbsp;
&#8220;Would you post flyers on the street to invite someone to a dinner party at your house?&#8221; asked Colette Dong, co-founder of trampoline fitness program Ness, which vets all potential members.&nbsp; &#8220;You wouldn&#8217;t. You would curate the vibe.&#8221;
Trending: ‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. You can <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">invest today for just $0.30/share.</a>
It's not just bank accounts these studios are taking into consideration, either. Giving out, what Business Insider and Dong call the "wrong vibes" by doing things like engaging in negative body talk can be enough to get you blacklisted from some places.
"We don't want any of that energy in our community," Dong says.
Dogpound, a boutique gym favored by celebrities, hasn't fully committed to a referral-only model for membership just yet. Instead, they have sky-high fees, which top out at $100,000 per year. Xander Hodge, the gym's general manager, told Business Insider the exorbitant fees are designed to help ensure members are committed, tight-knit, and guaranteed a scene of privacy.
One thirty-something Dogpound member told the outlet that the cost is worth it because it grants her access to a community where it's easy to meet and bond with like-minded people.&nbsp;
&#8220;Fitness in New York can feel very transient,&#8221; Dong told Business Insider. &#8220;There are so many studios and classes, and people often hop around… [studio membership] is reserved for people who are truly engaged with what we offer and who feel aligned with our community.&#8221;
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Image: Imagn Images

Personal Finance

Behind The Rise Of Exclusive Fitness Clubs: Why Workout Studio Memberships Are The Newest Wealth Signifier

There's a certain type of tension that only shows up when a stay-at-home parent falls in love with a luxury purchase—and the breadwinner spouse has the checkbook. And in the latest case, it wasn't a vacation, or a kitchen remodel—it was a used Lexus SUV with a five-figure price tag and a salesman "working out a deal."
In a post titled "AITAH for vetoing my wife's car purchase in the dealership and walking her out of there without looking at the car she picked out?", a 29-year-old man shared his side of the <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/AITAH/s/x55LXr0Rf1">showdown from Reddit's AITAH subreddit</a>.
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His 27-year-old wife is a stay-at-home mom until their kids are old enough for school, and her old Honda had just <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/08/46864496/dave-ramsey-caller-made-the-mistake-of-co-signing-a-60000-car-loan-now-his-brother-in-law-is-off-to-jail-and-hes-paying-for-it">broken down beyond repair</a>. With his full-time work schedule, he couldn't car shop with her right away—but he gave her access to his Mustang Mach-E and laid out a "maximum budget of $20,000," noting it was flexible "if she found something she really liked."
But what she found was a used 2020 Lexus GX 460. He was at work when she called him to the dealership. A friend's boyfriend worked there, she said, and told her they could make her a great deal. The husband showed up, already wary.
When he asked how much the car was "out the door," the salesman dodged with, "How much do you have down?" That's when he shut it down. "Honey, we're not buying a car today, let's go." She pushed back, asking him to at least look at the vehicle, but he refused.
Finally, the price sheet was printed: $56,000 after taxes, fees, and add-ons. The husband said, "No, honey, that's not what we agreed on," and took the keys. The salesman tried to sell him on financing. "I just took the keys from my wife and left," he wrote.
And that monthly payment? The implication was clear—at nearly $800 a month for five years, this wasn't just a car; it was a financial anchor.
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Later, cooler heads prevailed. "Eventually, I was able to sit her down and show her some much more affordable options that wouldn't require us financing the car and going back into debt," he explained. She ended up buying a used Honda Pilot Touring instead. Total cost with maintenance: around $21,000. He called the whole ordeal "a blip" in their marriage—but his wife said he came off as "cold and unreceptive" at the dealership.
His response? "The sales strategy in a dealership sometimes is to make one spouse love the car, and make that spouse feel like the salesperson is on their side so that they might purchase a car from them even if it's not a good decision for the couple."
Commenters rallied around him. "You were kind of ambushed with something other than what you agreed on," one said. "In what world did she think you'd be okay with a car that was $36K over what you told her you guys could comfortably spend?" another added.
Multiple users pointed to the obvious tactics dealerships use to push financing without revealing the true price. "My favorite is when I ask ‘what's the out-the-door price' and they say ‘well the monthly payment is…' Nope. Thanks for your time. That's not what I asked. Bye." Another former car salesman chimed in: "You are 1000% right. Every tactic you described is exactly what they do. Good work."
One commenter went so far as to say the salesperson's behavior was a giant red flag: "Pretty sure that the sales person hadn't told her the total price of the car. They love to tell you how low your monthly payments would be… if you have a perfect credit score and a huge down payment."
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But what stood out most was how readers <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/financial-advisors/25/07/46647765/dave-ramsey-tells-wife-how-to-deal-with-husband-who-wont-stop-overspending-on-dining-out-show-him-the-numbers">interpreted the dynamic between the couple</a>. The husband didn't just say no—he made a financially sound decision based on a clear budget. One person summed it up best: "That's not cold. That's called being married and financially responsible."
And there's some real-world data to back that up. <a href="https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2023/04/13/in-a-growing-share-of-u-s-marriages-husbands-and-wives-earn-about-the-same/">According to Pew Research</a>, 55% of U.S. marriages have a husband as the primary or sole breadwinner. When only one partner earns income, they often carry the burden—and authority—of major financial decisions. Experts say that power imbalance can be tricky, especially when the non-earning partner doesn't feel like an equal decision-maker.
But plenty of couples still find ways to keep things fair, even when one partner earns significantly more.&nbsp; Some split costs based on income percentages, others give each partner their own spending budget. But fair doesn't always mean 50/50. "It's no longer about financial equality," said <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/15/many-couples-dont-split-costs-equally-experts-say-heres-whats-fair.html">psychotherapist Carli Blau</a>, founder of Boutique Psychotherapy in New York. "It's really about what roles you play in your partnership—and whether both people feel heard, seen, appreciated, supported, and validated."
In this case, the husband had already tried that—he offered flexibility, gave her full access to his own car, and kept the conversation open. She still called him "cold," but most Redditors agreed he was just being smart.
After all, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46664160/are-you-an-above%E2%80%91average-couple-heres-the-net-worth-you-need-to-be-richer-than-90-of-households">marriage means sharing more than just a house</a>—it means sharing risk, debt, and everything in between. In this case, walking out of a $56,000 surprise sale might've been the most romantic gesture of all.
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Image: Shutterstock

29-Year-Old Says He 'Vetoed' His Wife's Dream Car, A 2020 $56K Lexus And Got Her A Honda Instead —'I Just Took The Keys From My Wife And Left'

On the surface, borrowing money at 0% APR looks like a great deal. You get to buy a product or service with someone else's money, and you don't have to pay interest for a while. You can find financing options that let you avoid interest payments for 12 months or more, but even though it sounds good, there are a few ways these deals can hurt your finances.
It may seem like there's only one disadvantage. People who borrow money will get burned by high interest rates if they do not repay the balance on time. However, there is a much more <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/personalfinance/comments/1mhuqcb/whats_so_bad_about_0_interest_financing_on/">subtle way</a> that 0% interest deals can wreck your finances.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Unintended Spending</h2>
It's hard enough to resist spending money due to the regular barrage of advertisements, an innate desire to keep up with everyone else, and how easy it has become to part ways with your hard-earned money. This environment makes it easy to spend money, and 0% APR is just another sweetener.
Borrowing money at 0% APR means there isn't any immediate downside to making a purchase. Money doesn't leave your checking account right away, and interest doesn't immediately accrue on your balance.&nbsp; This setup may incentivize people to make purchases they would have otherwise ignored.
Unintended spending has unintended consequences. That's extra money you now have to put toward your credit card bill instead of buying shares of a reliable index fund. Taking enough 0% APR deals can hinder your ability to build up a sufficient nest egg by the time you reach retirement age.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Getting Comfortable With Debt</h2>
Interest-free promotions also get people more comfortable with spending other people's money. While debt can be a productive resource for real estate investors and startup founders, using it for discretionary purchases too often can result in interest payments. Even if you're not paying interest, you will have to repay the debt with money that you could have invested.
Some people open multiple credit cards to capitalize on short-term 0% APR deals. These cards can be great for getting out of debt sooner if you do a credit card balance transfer. However, these deals can trap people into the habit of borrowing money.
This feedback loop can get so bad that you take out debt to pay off other debt. Constantly kicking the can further down the road results in more interest accumulation and will put you into a deeper financial hole. 0% APR offers can be the starting point of a series of bad financial decisions if you aren't careful.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Vulnerable To Emergency Expenses</h2>
Any debt that you incur makes you more financially vulnerable. Each debt represents more money that you owe, an additional monthly payment, and another obstacle that makes it more difficult to grow your portfolio.
However, the disadvantages don't end with extra debt. Taking 0% APR offers will make you more vulnerable to a surprise emergency expense. If you do not have enough funds in your bank account to cover the emergency expense because you were busy paying 0% APR debt, you may have to take out a personal loan to address the new expense.
While 0% APR offers can be useful, you should only use them for purchases you had intended to make. Don't rush to open a credit card with an intro 0% APR promo just to spend as much as you can. Using this type of financing with a necessary purchase and not putting yourself in a vulnerable financial situation is the best way to navigate 0% APR deals.
Read Next: $100k+ in investable assets? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wiseradvisor-retirement-planning">Match with a fiduciary advisor for free to learn how you can maximize your retirement and save on taxes</a> – no cost, no obligation.
Image: Shutterstock

How 0% Interest Deals Can Wreck Your Finances, Even If You Never Miss A Payment

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.)&#8217;s investment in Palantir has seen an impressive surge of 142% since April.
What Happened: Greene, who&nbsp;is a member of the&nbsp;House Homeland Security Committee, acquired shares in&nbsp;Palantir&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>)&nbsp;just days before Immigration and&nbsp;Customs Enforcement (ICE) granted&nbsp;the company a $30 million&nbsp;contract. 
Greene has clarified that her portfolio is managed by her financial adviser and she was not privy to&nbsp;the trades until they were&nbsp;reported.
Quiver Quantitative, a platform that monitors the stock market activities of politicians, highlighted that Palantir&#8217;s stock has risen by 142% from its position on April 8, which is the date when Greene made her purchase. 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">UPDATE: Marjorie Taylor Greene bought stock in Palantir on April 8th. We reported on this right away, because Greene sits on the House Committee on Homeland Security.<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24PLTR&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$PLTR</a> has now risen 142% since her purchase. Look at this graph: <a href="https://t.co/JYGXZtznDp">pic.twitter.com/JYGXZtznDp</a>
&mdash; Quiver Quantitative (@QuiverQuant) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuiverQuant/status/1953818108965142775?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Greene also invested in additional&nbsp;Palantir stock on July 15,&nbsp;which has yielded a substantial profit.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/46043789/marjorie-taylor-greenes-response-to-trump-bombing-iran-let-us-pray-that-we-are-not-attacked-by-terrorists-on-our-homeland" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Marjorie Taylor Greene&#8217;s Response To Trump Bombing Iran: ‘Let Us Pray That We Are Not Attacked By Terrorists On Our Homeland&#8217;</a>
As per financial news outlet Benzinga, Greene&#8217;s portfolio was ranked 23rd in performance among Congressional members in the previous year, generating&nbsp;a return of 30.2% on&nbsp;stock transactions. 
Greene has credited her success to her financial adviser and has brushed off criticism as &#8220;laughable&#8221;.
Why It Matters: The significant rise in Palantir&#8217;s stock value following Greene&#8217;s investment raises questions about the timing of her purchase. The fact that the surge came just days before ICE awarded Palantir a hefty contract is noteworthy. 
However, Greene has maintained that she was not aware of&nbsp;the trades until they were&nbsp;reported, attributing her investment decisions to her financial adviser. 
This incident underscores the potential for conflicts of interest in the stock market activities of politicians, a topic that has been a subject of debate in recent times.
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Marjorie Taylor Greene's Palantir Bet Has Skyrocketed 142% Since She Bought It

In the wake of the Bureau of Labor Statistics head&#8217;s dismissal, former White House communication official Anthony Scaramucci has ridiculed President Donald Trump&#8216;s recent efforts to rectify the situation.
What Happened: Scaramucci dismissed Trump&#8217;s praise for charts produced by the Heritage Foundation and presented by economist Stephen Moore. 
These charts purportedly demonstrated an increase in household income, a figure that Trump lauded as &#8220;an incredible number.&#8221;
Speaking <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zjfReto5k0">with </a>MSNBC regarding Trump&#8217;s ongoing criticism of the former BLS head and the new income figures, Scaramucci said, &#8220;There&#8217;s lies and there are damn lies and then there are statistics. You can take the statistics and cut them any which way that you want.&#8221;
&#8220;It&#8217;s hard to see the charts with all the gold leaf. It&#8217;s like shining so brightly behind them but it&#8217;s a mixed bag, the economy is a mixed bag. You can go through the economy and pick out things that are doing okay, and you can see the underlying surface cracks in the economy and you don&#8217;t have to be a rocket scientist to see that there&#8217;s a slowdown coming,&#8221; he added. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44658808/scaramucci-on-tariffs-there-is-stupid-and-then-there-is-donald-trump-stupid">Scaramucci on Tariffs: &#8216;There Is Stupid and Then There Is Donald Trump Stupid&#8217;</a>
Scaramucci also humorously commented on Trump&#8217;s refurbishment of the Oval Office to mirror Mar-a-Lago, making the charts difficult to see. 
He characterized the economy as a &#8220;mixed bag&#8221; with apparent &#8220;surface cracks&#8221; signaling a potential slowdown. He ended by describing the president&#8217;s actions as &#8220;a little bit ridiculous.&#8221;
Why It Matters: This incident underscores the ongoing controversy surrounding the dismissal of the BLS head and the subsequent handling of job statistics by the Trump administration. Scaramucci&#8217;s comments highlight the skepticism and criticism faced by the administration in its attempts to portray a positive economic outlook amidst potential signs of a slowdown. 
The use of statistics in this context has been a point of contention, with critics arguing that they can be manipulated to present a misleading picture of the economy. 
The situation continues to evolve, with the administration&#8217;s handling of economic data remaining a critical issue.
Read Next
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Anthony Scaramucci Ridicules Trump's Job Numbers and Charts: 'There's a Slowdown Coming'

Concerned about your child&#8217;s career in an AI world? Governor Gavin Newsom is rolling out free, Big Tech–backed AI curricula across high schools, community colleges and the California State University system, in partnership with Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>), Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADBE#NASDAQ">ADBE</a>), International Business Machines Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBM#NYSE">IBM</a>) and Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>).
On Aug. 7 in San Francisco, Newsom said the state has finalized no-cost agreements with four leading technology firms to bring AI curricula, tools and training to public high schools, California Community Colleges and the California State University system.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/08/47019958/as-gpt-5-launches-openai-loyalists-pushed-altman-for-gpt-4os-return-citing-performance-and-reliability" rel="noreferrer noopener">As GPT-5 Launches, OpenAI Loyalists Pushed Altman for GPT-4o&#8217;s Return, Citing Performance and Reliability</a>
The initiative is designed to speed talent development for AI-driven jobs and strengthen California&#8217;s technology leadership, Governor Newsom&#8217;s website <a target="_blank" href="https://www.gov.ca.gov/2025/08/07/governor-newsom-partners-with-worlds-leading-tech-companies-to-prepare-californians-for-ai-future/" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
Officials said the partnerships focus on building an AI-ready workforce across grades 9–12 and higher education, while preserving responsible and safe use of emerging technologies.
Programs include access to Adobe&#8217;s classroom-oriented generative AI in Adobe Express, Acrobat and Firefly; Google&#8217;s no-cost Prompting Essentials for students and Generative AI for Educators; IBM&#8217;s SkillsBuild credentials and support for regional AI labs and short-term certificates; and Microsoft-backed bootcamps covering AI foundations, cybersecurity and Copilot. 
Institutions can opt in, and companies will provide the offerings at no cost to schools.
Why It Matters
State leaders say the agreements will help students transition from classroom to careers while ensuring employers can hire locally.
&#8220;AI is expected to touch nearly every aspect of the working world, so making sure California students are fluent in AI tools will give them a huge advantage as they start their careers,&#8221; said Stewart Knox, Secretary of Labor &amp; Workforce Development.
Senior economic officials added that aligning education with industry needs reinforces California&#8217;s innovation economy and expands opportunity.
California notes its outsized AI footprint—including a high concentration of top private AI companies—and is pairing workforce initiatives with policy guardrails.
A 2023 executive order set the framework for responsible state adoption of generative AI, and a new expert report on frontier AI policy is informing safety, transparency and ethics.
Officials said implementation work begins immediately, with continued coordination among agencies, campuses and industry partners.
Read Next
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Newsom Wants Your Kids AI-Ready — Google, Adobe, IBM, Microsoft Are In

As debate over the future of Social Security heats up once again, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) is sounding the alarm over what many see as a renewed effort to privatize the program — this time, through a provision in the recently passed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/08/46826382/whats-the-same-whats-different-suze-orman-tackles-how-the-one-big-beautiful-bill-act-affects-your-social-security">One Big Beautiful Bill Act</a>.
The controversy began last week after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent referred to the Trump administration's new so-called Trump Accounts — a new savings program for children — as a "back door for privatizing Social Security."
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Return to an Old Fight</h2>
Bessent's remarks have reopened a long-standing and politically sensitive issue. Proposals to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46759154/the-u-s-social-security-crisis-is-closer-than-you-think-could-one-countrys-bold-experiment-hold-the-fix">privatize Social Security</a> — which would shift the system from a government-run program to one based on personal savings accounts — have surfaced in the past, most notably under President George W. Bush. But those ideas have largely been set aside after public pushback.
Millions of Americans rely on Social Security as a guaranteed source of income in retirement. Under privatization, individuals would be responsible for managing their own retirement savings, potentially exposing them to market risks and uncertainty.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump Accounts Draw Scrutiny</h2>
The program at the center of the latest debate is the Trump Account, a new savings vehicle created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The account is designed to be opened for any baby born in the U.S., with a potential $1,000 initial deposit from the Treasury. Like an IRA, it allows for post-tax contributions — up to $5,000 a year — and could grow over time.
"In a way, it is a back door for privatizing Social Security," Bessent said, speaking at a Breitbart News forum, about the Trump Accounts. This has sparked widespread concern that they are intended as a long-term replacement — not a supplement — to Social Security.
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Later that day, Bessent clarified his comments, saying the administration was committed to protecting Social Security. "This is not an either-or question," he wrote in a <a href="https://x.com/SecScottBessent/status/1950675795866988545">post on X</a>. "Our administration is committed to protecting Social Security and to making sure seniors have more money."
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Wyden, Democrats React Swiftly</h2>
Despite the clarification, Wyden and other top Democrats were quick to push back. "It's clear Trump was lying all along about protecting Social Security," Wyden said in a <a href="https://www.finance.senate.gov/ranking-members-news/wyden-statement-on-trump-plan-to-privatize-social-security">statement</a>, accusing the president of paving the way for Wall Street interests to profit at the expense of retirees.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) called Bessent's remarks "a stunning admission," saying they revealed the administration's true intentions.
The Democratic National Committee echoed that view. Spokesperson Tim Hogan accused the Trump administration of scheming to dismantle the program through what he called a "backdoor scam."
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Social Security's Future Remains Uncertain</h2>
The backdrop to this renewed debate is Social Security's long-term financial outlook. According to the <a href="https://blog.ssa.gov/social-security-board-of-trustees-projection-for-combined-trust-funds-one-year-sooner-than-last-year/">program's trustees</a>, the trust fund that pays benefits will no longer be able to cover full payments starting in 2034 unless changes are made.
Trump, for his part, has repeatedly promised to protect Social Security. On the 2024 campaign trail, and after winning re-election, he said the program would remain untouched, other than possible efforts to make it more efficient.
Still, for critics like Wyden, recent developments suggest a different story. "Calling this a five-alarm fire is an understatement," Wyden said.
With millions of Americans counting on Social Security to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43201704/can-you-guess-what-it-takes-to-be-wealthy-in-retirement-hint-its-probably-less-than-your-goal">fund their retirement</a>, the debate over its future — and who's telling the truth about it — is far from over.
Read Next: $100k+ in investable assets? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wiseradvisor-retirement-planning">Match with a fiduciary advisor for free to learn how you can maximize your retirement and save on taxes</a> – no cost, no obligation.
Image: Shutterstock

Sen. Ron Wyden Warns Of Backdoor Social Security Privatization: 'It's Clear Trump Was Lying All Along'

The creator of Ethereum, Vitalik Buterin, has raised concerns about the possible dangers posed by companies that hold Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) in their balance sheets. 
What Happened: Buterin warned that the overleveraging practices of companies holding ETH could potentially trigger a collapse of the cryptocurrency. 
During a recent interview he said, &#8220;If you woke me up three years from now and told me that treasuries led to the downfall of ETH, then, of course, my guess for why would basically be that somehow they turned into an overleveraged game, and then at some point a 30% drop turned into forced liquidations that turned into a 50% drop and then a 70% and 90% drop, and then that got compounded with a loss of credibility.&#8221;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Are ETH Treasuries good for Ethereum?<a href="https://twitter.com/VitalikButerin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VitalikButerin</a> thinks they can be: "ETH just being an asset that companies can have as part of their treasury is good and valuable… giving people more options is good." But he also issues a warning: "If you woke me up 3 years from now… <a href="https://t.co/W55oUD7Lke">pic.twitter.com/W55oUD7Lke</a>
&mdash; Bankless (@BanklessHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/BanklessHQ/status/1953456218892390562?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Despite his cautionary note, Buterin also underscored the advantages of companies maintaining an ETH treasury. He pointed out the social value of coordinating around ETH as&nbsp;an asset that companies can&nbsp;include in their treasury.
"The social aspect of coordinating around ETH just being an asset that companies can have as part of their treasury is good and valuable. Having different vehicles for people to have access to ETH, which is, I think, one of the reasons why people are buying into treasury companies instead of just hodling ETH directly, is also good,&#8221; he further said. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/23/07/33091772/vitalik-buterin-stakes-small-portion-of-eth-citing-safety-concerns-cardano-creator-chimes-">Vitalik Buterin Stakes &#8216;Small Portion&#8217; Of ETH Citing Safety Concerns, Cardano Creator Chimes In</a>
&#8220;Giving people more options is good. There's always people in all kinds of different financial circumstances that put all kinds of requirements or incentives or properties on what formats of things that they participate in. There's definitely valuable services that are being provided there," Buterin added. 
Why It Matters: The warning from Buterin comes at a time when ETH&#8217;s price is experiencing a significant surge, following the enactment of the GENIUS Act. 
This legislation established a federal framework for the regulation of stablecoins, thereby bolstering Ethereum&#8217;s ecosystem. 
As of the time of writing, ETH is trading at $4,224, marking an 8.5% increase in the last 24 hours and a 21.1% rise over the past week.
Read Next
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Ethereum Creator Warns of Dangers From Companies Holding ETH Treasuries

The tariff policies of Donald Trump&#8216;s administration have been found to disproportionately affect less affluent nations, a stark contrast to the special trading privileges these countries have enjoyed for years from wealthy nations like the U.S.
What Happened: The Trump administration&#8217;s tariffs have been more severe on poorer nations compared to their wealthier counterparts. 
While affluent nations such as South Korea, Japan, and European Union member states faced tariffs ranging from 10% to 15%, developing countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh, South Africa, and Iraq were slapped with tariffs of 20% or more.
Further, Myanmar and Laos, among the poorest nations in Asia, were subjected to tariffs as high as 40%, threatening to cripple their exports to the U.S. 
In a recent development, President Trump announced plans to hike tariffs on India to 50%, amidst disputes over India&#8217;s continued imports of Russian oil.
"It's left developing countries with very high tariffs. It's a significant change especially for treatment of least developed countries," Deborah Elms, head of trade policy at the Hinrich Foundation, an Asia-based think tank recently <a href="https://www.wsj.com/economy/trade/why-poor-nations-got-hit-with-higher-tariffs-than-rich-ones-de6881b8?mod=hp_lead_pos10">told </a>the Wall Street Journal. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/08/46817792/trumps-disapproval-rating-soars-amid-economic-woes-epstein-drama">Trump&#8217;s Disapproval Rating Soars Amid Economic Woes, Epstein Drama</a>
However, countries with significant geopolitical or economic ties to the U.S., such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, were spared from these harsh tariffs. These nations, all major oil and gas producers, faced no tariffs higher than the standard 10%.
&#8220;It is hard to tell if there is any logic to deciphering why some countries have been hit so hard while others were spared,&#8221; David Henig, a trade expert at the European Center for International Political Economy, a think tank based in Brussels, <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/world/europe/trump-tariffs-winners-losers-reaction-rcna222422">told</a> CNBC. 
Why It Matters: This shift in tariff policy marks a significant departure from the traditional treatment of the world&#8217;s least developed countries. 
The demand from the Trump administration for trading partners to invest in the U.S. has put developing countries at a disadvantage, as few have the financial capacity to match the investment pledges made by Japan, South Korea, and the EU. 
This could potentially exacerbate the economic divide between developed and developing nations, further straining international trade relations.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/08/46817306/six-months-in-trump-struggles-to-sell-his-economic-vision-to-skeptical-americans">Six Months In, Trump Struggles To Sell His Economic Vision To Skeptical Americans</a>

Why Trump's Tariffs Hit Poor Countries With Higher Rates Than Rich Ones

Naval Ravikant, a renowned investor and venture capitalist, argues that excellence hinges less on credentials than on sustained obsession.
What Happened: In "The Almanack of Naval Ravikant" which is a curated collection of his most valuable insights on wealth, happiness and life Ravikant <a href="https://nav.al/specific-knowledge">says</a>, "If you're not 100% into it, somebody else who is 100% into it will outperform you," and that in the "domain of ideas," compounding and leverage, will magnify the gap.
Ravikant frames "specific knowledge" as the product of "innate talents, … genuine curiosity, and … passion," urging people to chase what naturally absorbs them rather than whatever looks hottest in the job market.
He illustrates the point with a sales example. A psychology degree gives an already strong salesperson "leverage," he says, but classroom learning won't turn a reluctant introvert into a top salesperson.
He extends the argument with simple math, stating that in high-leverage fields, small accuracy edges compound. If one person is right 90% of the time and another 80%, the market pays "hundreds of times more" to the former because correctness compounds and scales. Ravikant&#8217;s takeaway is to pick a lane that rewards your curiosity and keep improving until you're "100% into it."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/entertainment/25/08/46979368/south-park-takes-on-kristi-noem-shooting-dogs-jd-vance-as-trump-assistant-vp-says-ive-finally-made-it">South Park Takes On Kristi Noem Shooting Dogs, JD Vance As Trump Assistant: VP Says &#8216;I&#8217;ve Finally Made It&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: Many business leaders echo the case for curiosity and continuous learning. Jeff Bezos recently told an audience that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45608220/jeff-bezos-shares-his-secret-to-success-if-you-can-somehow-figure-out-how-to-have-a-calling-you-have-hit-the-jackpot">finding a calling</a> is "the jackpot," emphasizing passion as a driver of long-run outcomes.
Warren Buffett <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/04/38254603/warren-buffett-says-the-key-to-success-isnt-having-the-greatest-business-idea-in-the-world-the-test">puts it more plainly</a>. "The test is whether you keep learning," he says, a credo investors often cite when explaining the billionaire&#8217;s ability to pick investments that become diamonds in the rough. Charlie Munger, Buffett's late partner, praised Buffett as a "<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44855242/charlie-munger-once-highlighted-how-warren-buffetts-lifelong-learning-made-berkshire-hathaways-success-possible-and-the-crucial-lesson-you-can-take-from-it">continuous learning machine</a>," arguing that compounding knowledge is what&#8217;s made Berkshire Hathaway billions in returns.
Bill Gates likewise credits "<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43581817/bill-gates-says-this-simple-trait-is-the-secret-to-his-success">insatiable curiosity</a>" for his career, urging people to keep reading and adopt new tools, an ethos that mirrors Ravikant's call to pursue specific knowledge and stay "100% into it."
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/financing/25/08/46988593/richard-werner-tells-tucker-carlson-wrong-to-view-banks-as-intermediaries-says-they-have-unique-power-that-economists-overlook">Richard Werner Tells Tucker Carlson Wrong To View Banks As &#8216;Intermediaries,&#8217; Says They Have &#8216;Unique Power&#8217; That Economists Overlook</a></li>
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Photo Courtesy: hxdbzxy on Shutterstock.com

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Naval Ravikant Says If You're Not '100% Into It,' Someone Else Will Always Beat You: Here's Why

Mexico&#8217;s president moved to shut down speculation of U.S. troops crossing the border, rejecting reported plans for military action against drug cartels and insisting cooperation will not come <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics" rel="noreferrer noopener">at the expense of national sovereignty.</a>
BBC <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c07pdel9vyjo" rel="noreferrer noopener">quoted </a>President Claudia Sheinbaum, &#8220;The United States is not going to come to Mexico with the military.&#8221; Sheinbaum told reporters on Friday that &#8220;We co-operate, we collaborate, but there is not going to be an invasion. That is ruled out, absolutely ruled out.&#8221; She said any discussions with Washington have not included foreign soldiers operating on Mexican soil, BBC added.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/08/47008973/money-supply-is-under-control-until-de-dollarized-capital-comes-home-to-roost" rel="noreferrer noopener">Money Supply Is Under Control, Until De-dollarized Capital Comes Home To Roost</a>
Citing a secret directive, The New York Times <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/08/08/us/trump-military-drug-cartels.html" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported </a>that President Donald Trump authorized steps to employ U.S. military power against cartels, potentially on foreign territory and at sea.
The New York Times said the order could provide &#8220;an official basis for the possibility of direct military operations&#8221; against such groups.
Earlier this year, Trump signed an order labeling eight cartels as terrorist entities, six of them based in Mexico, according to prior U.S. statements.
The White House, in a statement to the BBC, did not address the directive directly but said Trump&#8217;s &#8220;top priority is protecting the homeland.&#8221; Secretary of State Marco Rubio argued for a harder line, saying, &#8220;We have to start treating them as armed terrorist organisations, not simply drug dealing organisations.&#8221;
Mexico and the United States have intensified joint efforts to curb illegal migration and drug trafficking.
Data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection show June crossings at a record low, per BBC.
U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Ronald Johnson recently noted that fentanyl seizures at the border have fallen by more than half, crediting tighter cooperation.
Sheinbaum reiterated that any counter-narcotics collaboration must respect Mexico&#8217;s autonomy.
She said authorities were informed an order addressing cartels was forthcoming, but &#8220;that it had nothing to do with the participation of any military personnel.&#8221;
Earlier this year, she warned that designating cartels as terrorists &#8220;cannot be an opportunity for the US to invade our sovereignty.&#8221;
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/08/46999430/trump-tariffs-gold-switzerland-federal-reserves" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Puts Tariffs On Gold Bars—Now The Fed Could Trigger A Shock</a></li>
</ul>

Trump's 'Narcos' Strategy Collides With Mexico's Strong Opposition To US Deployment

President Donald Trump and his Republican allies are reportedly working on a redistricting strategy that has been compared to a scheme &#8220;making Watergate look like forgetting a library book&#8221; by Trump&#8217;s former lawyer, Michael Cohen.
What Happened: Cohen recently published an article titled &#8220;Redistricting Is The New Trump Coup,&#8221; where he criticizes the alleged plan by Trump to redraw congressional districts. 
Cohen claims that Trump is putting pressure on Republicans in Texas to make drastic changes to the current congressional map, with the goal of securing five additional seats in Congress. 
Cohen sees this as a blatant disregard for the traditional decennial redistricting process, indicative of Trump&#8217;s disregard for constitutional norms.
&#8220;These aren't congressional districts; they're kill zones for democracy. The GOP helped build this, and now it's swallowing them. So here we are again; President Trump, the man who couldn't find Kansas City on a map, is now redrawing the entire damn thing. Because when you can't win by persuading voters, you rig the district lines, pack the courts, and pray no one's paying attention, Cohen wrote in his <a href="https://therealmichaelcohen.substack.com/p/redistricting-is-the-new-trump-coup?r=yzqcr&amp;utm_campaign=post&amp;utm_medium=web&amp;triedRedirect=true">post</a>. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/08/46817700/ex-trump-lawyer-says-trump-could-set-sights-on-musks-billions-it-bothers-him-that-he-is-the-richest-man">Ex-Trump Lawyer Says Trump Could Set Sights on Musk&#8217;s Billions: &#8216;It Bothers Him That He Is the Richest Man&#8217;</a>
&#8220;Welcome to the next phase of the American heist; a mid-decade redistricting scheme so brazen, it makes Watergate look like forgetting to return a library book,&#8221; Cohen added.
Furthermore, Cohen suggests that this strategy is causing unease among some Republicans. He cites New York&#8217;s Mike Lawler and California&#8217;s Kevin Kiley as examples of members who are apprehensive about the potential repercussions of this plan.
&#8220;Unlike&nbsp;past cycles, where GOP members&nbsp;practically body surfed toward Trump&nbsp;for a hit of MAGA&nbsp;mojo, what we're hearing now&nbsp;is… crickets. Or worse; resentment,&#8221; Cohen wrote. He argues that Trump&#8217;s redistricting plan could put the political careers of these members at risk.
Why It Matters: The redistricting strategy alleged by Cohen could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress. 
If successful, it could potentially secure a Republican majority, altering the political landscape for years to come. Furthermore, the alleged disregard for the traditional redistricting process raises concerns about the integrity of democratic processes. 
The unease among some Republicans suggests that the plan could lead to internal divisions within the party, potentially impacting its unity and effectiveness.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46266380/ex-trump-lawyer-sent-this-message-to-elon-musk-after-feud-with-donald-trump-erupted" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ex-Trump Lawyer Sent This Message To Elon Musk After Feud With Donald Trump Erupted</a>

Ex-Trump Lawyer Calls President's Mid-Decade Redistricting Scheme More Brazen Than Watergate: 'Welcome To The Next Phase Of American Heist'

President Donald Trump is warning of potential economic fallout if his extensive tariff policy is overturned, hinting at a new Great Depression.
What Happened: Trump voiced his apprehensions in a post on Truth Social, suggesting that a negative verdict on the tariff policy by a &#8220;Radical Left Court&#8221; could have catastrophic implications for the country&#8217;s economy. He underscored the difficulty the U.S. would face in bouncing back from such an economic setback.
"If a Radical Left Court ruled against us at this late date, in an attempt to bring down or disturb the largest amount of money, wealth creation and influence the U.S.A. has ever seen, it would be impossible to ever recover, or pay back, these massive sums of money and honor. It would be 1929 all over again, a GREAT DEPRESSION!" he said in the post. 
"There is no way America could recover from such a judicial tragedy, but I know our Court System better than anyone, there is no one in history that has gone through the trials, tribulations and uncertainties such as I, and absolutely terrible, but also amazingly beautiful, things can happen. Our Country deserves SUCCESS AND GREATNESS, NOT TURMOIL, FAILURE, AND DISGRACE," Trump further added.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/08/46817802/jim-cramer-has-blunt-message-for-fed-chair-powell-after-july-job-numbers-tanked">Jim Cramer Has Blunt Message for Fed Chair Powell After July Job Numbers Tanked</a>
The President&#8217;s tariffs, introduced on Thursday, have stirred the global trade system.&nbsp;The Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;closed with a 0.5 percent loss in the aftermath of the tariff imposition, and the S&amp;P 500 index also dipped by approximately 0.1 percent. 
However, the markets made a comeback on Friday, with&nbsp;the Dow Jones Industrial Average&nbsp;seeing a 0.6 percent increase and the S&amp;P 500 index climbing by 0.8 percent.
The U.S. Court of Appeals&nbsp;for the Federal Circuit is&nbsp;presently examining Trump&#8217;s rationale for his tariffs under&nbsp;the International Emergency Economic Powers&nbsp;Act (IEEPA). Earlier this week, former House Speaker Paul Ryan speculated that Trump&#8217;s emergency tariff authority could be overruled by the Supreme Court.
While economic historians generally agree that tariffs were not a cause of the Great Depression, some do argue that the Smoot–Hawley Tariff Act signed into law on June 17, 1930, less than nine months after the Wall Street crash of 1929, made the Depression worse.
Why It Matters: The potential reversal of Trump&#8217;s tariff policy could have far-reaching implications for the U.S. economy. The President&#8217;s warning of a possible depression underscores the gravity of the situation. 
The tariffs, which have already caused fluctuations in the stock market, are a contentious issue that could significantly impact global trade. 
The outcome of the U.S. Court of Appeals&#8217; review of the tariffs under the IEEPA will be critical in determining the future direction of the U.S. economy.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock/Dennis MacDonald

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