Sezzle Option Alert: Aug 15 $135 Puts Sweep (27) near the Ask: 747 vs 793 OI; Earnings 8/6 After Close [est] 

Sezzle Option Alert: Aug 15 $135 Puts Sweep (27) near the Ask: 747 @ $18.5 vs 793 OI; Earnings 8/6 After Close [est] Ref=$136.77

Sezzle Option Alert: Aug 15 $115 Calls at the Bid: 219 vs 3 OI; Earnings 8/6 After Close [est] 

Sezzle Option Alert: Aug 15 $115 Calls at the Bid: 219 @ $30.8 vs 3 OI; Earnings 8/6 After Close [est] Ref=$134.66

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SEZZLE INC

Sezzle

Sezzle Inc is a financing institution that offers technology-driven payment platform. It allows customers to split their purchase into four installments and pay over 6 weeks with only the first payment due at the time of purchase. Companies operations comprise one reportable segment, primarily deriving revenue from payment processing platform in North America.

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Acciones de pequeña capitalización lideran 2024 con rendimientos sorprendentes. Descubre qué impulsó su crecimiento y quiénes destacan.

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Sezzle y Heritage Insurance muestran señales de sobrecompra con RSI altos. ¿Es hora de vender? Descubre lo que significa para los inversores.

2 acciones financieras que podrías considerar vender en agosto

Sezzle Inc

Leading cryptocurrencies rose Monday amid President Donald Trump-owned company's $2 billion Bitcoin purchase announcement.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Cryptocurrency</th>
<th>Gains +/-</th>
<th>Price (Recorded at 9:30 p.m. ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+0.59%</td>
<td>$117,892</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+2.00%</td>
<td>$3,797.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+2.42%</td>
<td>$0.2732</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin fell from highs of $119,000 to an intraday low of $116,233. The apex cryptocurrency has slipped 1.39% over the last week as the fervent rally cools off.
In a notable development, Trump Media &amp; Technology Group Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DJT#NASDAQ">DJT</a>) revealed that it has accumulated <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/07/46518216/trump-media-stock-rises-as-bitcoin-purchases-cross-2-billion">approximately&nbsp;$2 billion&nbsp;in Bitcoin</a> and Bitcoin-related securities
Meanwhile, Ethereum surpassed $3,800 for the first time in over seven months, wiping off nearly all of its losses since the mid-December pullback.
Cryptocurrency liquidations hit nearly $500 million in the last 24 hours, with $268 million in upside bets wiped out.&nbsp;
That said, about $512 million worth of Bitcoin short positions risked liquidation if the apex cryptocurrency rebounded to $120,000.
Bitcoin's open interest rose 1.48% in the last 24 hours. Ethereum's open interest jumped 3.95% to an all-time high of $58 billion.&nbsp;
Over 50% of Binance traders with open BTC positions were betting on the coin's increase, according to the Long/Short Ratio.
Top Gainers (24 Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Cryptocurrency</th>
<th>Gains +/-</th>
<th>Price (Recorded at 9:30 p.m. ET)</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Pudgy Penguins (PENGU)</td>
<td>+22.39%</td>
<td>$0.03782</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Kaspa (KAS)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+19.55%</td>
<td>$0.1162</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Raydium (RAY)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+15.81%</td>
<td>$3.32 </td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.90 trillion, following a modest 0.69% increase in the last 24 hours.
Stocks continued to hit record levels. The S&amp;P 500 rose 0.14% to close at 6,305.60, marking its first close above $6,300 in history. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite jumped 0.38% to a closing record of 20,974.17. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was the outlier, falling 19.12 points, or 0.04%, to end at 44,323.07.
Investors are looking forward to big-ticket earnings this week, including those from Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) and Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>).&nbsp;
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Blockchain analytics firm CryptoQuant noted that the Spent Output Profit Ratio Indicator for long-term holders has reached its 2025 highs, signaling increased profit-taking by diamond hands. When this indicator rises over 4, it suggests a macro top.&nbsp;
"At the moment, the indicator is slightly above 2.5, which reinforces the thesis that there is space for further appreciation before a possible exhaustion of the upward cycle," CryptoQuant added.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">SOPR Long Term Holders Reach New Highs in 2025 "Historically, when the SOPR LTH reaches the region above 4.0, marked in red on the chart, we have clear signs of a macro top." – By <a href="https://twitter.com/gaah_im?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gaah_im</a> Link &#x2935;&#xFE0F;<a href="https://t.co/1rMwiMDGCq">https://t.co/1rMwiMDGCq</a> <a href="https://t.co/WHf4zqsBij">pic.twitter.com/WHf4zqsBij</a>
&mdash; CryptoQuant.com (@cryptoquant_com) <a href="https://twitter.com/cryptoquant_com/status/1947369485309972698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Widely followed cryptocurrency analyst and trader Michaël van de Poppe drew attention to Bitcoin's ongoing consolidation phase, with liquidity taken on both sides of the $116,800-$119,500 range.
"Break above $119,500 = new ATH. Break south of $116,800 = $111,000 buy the dip opportunity," the analyst projected.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Liquidity on both sides have been taken for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a>. That&#39;s going to mean that we&#39;re waiting for a clear direction. Volatility is going down, matter of time until it picks up. Break above $119.5K = new ATH. Break south of $116.8K = $111K buy the dip opportunity. <a href="https://t.co/tku5qccobH">pic.twitter.com/tku5qccobH</a>
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1947356399492903184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Photo Courtesy: Yalcin Sonat On Shutterstock.com
Read Next:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;
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Bitcoin Rises Amid Trump Media's Massive Purchase, But Ethereum, Dogecoin Score Greater Gains: Analyst Sees New BTC All-Time High If It Breaks Past This Level

Economist Judy Shelton, a former advisor to President Donald Trump during his first term and senior fellow at the Independent Institute, delivered a sweeping critique of the Federal Reserve on Monday.
What Happened: Aligning herself with the former Fed Governor Kevin Warsh's call for &#8220;monetary regime change,&#8221; Shelton called for a structural overhaul, while questioning the very notion of central bank independence.
Shelton argued that the challenges facing the Fed go far beyond short-term rate decisions, pointing to systemic issues within the institution itself. &#8220;We&#8217;re really looking at much deeper problems at the Federal Reserve, its models, its constructs, the way the Federal Reserve staff choreographs the meeting,&#8221; she said.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46512871/trump-says-he-doesnt-need-scott-bessents-advice-to-fire-jerome-powell-i-know-better-than-anybody-whats-good-for-the-market">Trump Says He Doesn&#8217;t Need Scott Bessent&#8217;s Advice To Fire Jerome Powell: &#8216;I Know Better Than Anybody What&#8217;s Good For The Market&#8217;</a>
She further emphasized the need for the Fed to be integrated into a broader economic and national security strategy. Shelton also challenged the long-standing defense of the Fed&#8217;s independence, calling it outright undemocratic.
&#8220;It violates the norms of democratic governance to have the head of a federal agency… who cannot be fired by anyone, by Congress, by the president, by anyone,&#8221; she says.
Highlighting the current dysfunction at the Fed, Shelton pointed to the operating losses the institution has incurred since September 2022, while highlighting the &#8220;over $900 billion in unrealized capital losses in its own portfolio.&#8221;
Among her strongest critiques involved the Fed&#8217;s policy of paying commercial banks to hold reserves rather than lend, which she says suppresses productive investment. &#8220;If you pay banks more to keep their money sitting risk-free at the Federal Reserve at a very hefty interest rate, that becomes a more lucrative use of their money than to make loans.&#8221;
The Federal Reserve did not immediately respond to Benzinga&#8217;s request for a comment on the matter. This story will be updated as soon as we receive a response.
Why It Matters: This comes amid growing speculations surrounding the ouster of Fed Chair Jerome Powell &#8220;for cause,&#8221; regarding a $2.5 billion <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/07/46485087/jerome-powell-defends-2-5-billion-fed-hq-overhaul-says-no-vip-dining-rooms-no-private-elevators-as-trump-allies-slam-project-over-versailles-style-excess">headquarters renovation project</a>. 
Recently, Sen.&nbsp;Ted Cruz&nbsp;(R-Texas) made a push for abolishing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/45855937/jeremy-siegel-backs-ted-cruzs-plan-to-end-fed-interest-payments-on-excess-reserves-potentially-saving-2-trillion-in-deficits-not-a-trivial-concern">interest on reserve balances (IORB)</a> over a month ago, saying that it would save $2 trillion worth of deficits over the next decade.
Cruz&#8217;s push received the backing of senior economist Jeremy Siegel, who said, &#8220;This is not a trivial concern. The Fed&#8217;s shift from a profit-contributing institution to a deficit-expanding one may provoke greater scrutiny of its operating framework.&#8221;
Photo Courtesy: RozenskiP On Shuttertsock.com
Read More: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/bonds/25/07/46488992/us-dollar-can-lose-its-supremacy-premium-if-fed-interferes-with-bond-market-currencies-are-release-valve-for-unsustainable-fiscal-policy">US Dollar Can Lose Its &#8216;Supremacy Premium&#8217; If Fed Interferes With Bond Market: Currencies Are &#8216;Release Valve For Unsustainable Fiscal Policy&#8217;</a></li>
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Ex-Trump Advisor Judy Shelton Slams Federal Reserve's $900 Billion Losses, Says 'Violates The Norms' To Have A Fed Chair Who Can't Be Fired

The escalating tensions between France and major tech firms took a new turn this week, as Telegram co-founder Pavel Durov criticized the country for its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40542542/elon-musk-reacts-as-telegram-founder-gets-arrested-in-france-reportedly-faces-20-years-in-prison-on">legal approach</a> toward platforms like Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter.
What Happened: On Monday, X revealed that French authorities had launched a criminal investigation into the platform, accusing it of algorithm manipulation and "fraudulent data extraction."
The company called the probe politically motivated and said it was instigated by French lawmaker Eric Bothorel.
X further alleged that the government had granted itself sweeping powers by classifying the platform as an "organized gang," a legal designation typically reserved for criminal networks.
"X believes that this investigation is distorting French law in order to serve a political agenda and, ultimately, restrict free speech," X said in a statement. The company said it declined to comply with France's data request, citing concerns over fairness and due process.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/07/46383701/apple-undergoing-major-management-overhaul-but-ceo-tim-cook-to-stay-on" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple Undergoing Major Management Overhaul, But CEO Tim Cook To Stay On</a>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">French authorities have launched a politically-motivated criminal investigation into X over the alleged manipulation of its algorithm and alleged "fraudulent data extraction." X categorically denies these allegations. This investigation, instigated by French politician Eric…
&mdash; Global Government Affairs (@GlobalAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/GlobalAffairs/status/1947213316331282504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Bothorel defended the French judiciary's independence, saying, "The absence of responsibility and oversight endangers freedom just as much as prohibitions and censorship do," reported Reuters.
Telegram's CEO Durov, who holds French nationality, weighed in on the development, writing on X, "At this point, any tech company can be declared a ‘criminal gang' in France."
He warned that years of effort to attract tech investment are being undone by "a few bureaucrats advancing their careers and political agendas."
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">At this point, any tech company can be declared a "criminal gang" in France. A decade of efforts to attract tech investment is being undone by a few bureaucrats advancing their careers and political agendas — at the expense of the French people. <a href="https://t.co/16DABZwCkz">https://t.co/16DABZwCkz</a>
&mdash; Pavel Durov (@durov) <a href="https://twitter.com/durov/status/1947418273223741539?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Why It's Important: The controversy highlights growing friction between European governments and global tech platforms over privacy, content moderation and regulatory power.
Durov's reaction carries added weight following his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40674919/after-russian-presidents-ally-slams-us-for-pavel-durovs-arrest-kremlin-minister-says-telegram-ceo-wa">own arrest in France</a> in 2024 over Telegram's alleged failure to moderate criminal content. Though he denies wrongdoing, his detention marked the first time a tech CEO was arrested over user activity on a platform.
Photo Courtesy: Ahyan Stock Studios on Shutterstock.com
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Elon Musk's X Accused Of Algorithm Manipulation And 'Fraudulent Data Extraction' In France: Telegram's Pavel Durov Says Any Tech Company Can Now Be Called A 'Criminal Gang'

Personal finance guru Dave Ramsey has long been a critic of cryptocurrency investments, and even the blockbuster bull run of 2021 failed to sway his opinion on the asset class.
What happened: Back in April 2021, a caller on his popular radio program, &#8220;The Ramsey Show,&#8221; inquired about his thoughts on cryptocurrency and how to deal with the FOMO of investing in the asset class.
This was when the market, driven by Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), was experiencing a record-breaking bull run, with the price of the apex cryptocurrency shooting up 106% year-to-date.
It [cryptocurrency] had an incredible year. People made a lot of money out of this year. Without a doubt, no question about that," Ramsey replied. "But they make a lot of money on cocaine, too. They make a lot of money playing futures, and they make a lot of money at the blackjack table."
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Ramsey implied that cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>) are not investment strategies but rather "things that you can jump into or jump out of," which carry extremely high risk.
He advised the user to avoid such bets "if they don't want to start over" and stick to safer investments such as mutual funds.
"But you&#8217;re not going to convince friends who are making a bunch of money that they&#8217;re stupid. Just let them be stupid and smile," Ramsey added.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44621245/gold-backed-cryptos-match-yellow-metals-highs-following-trumps-liberation-day-shock"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46511527/bitcoin-flat-as-1-billion-whale-move-sparks-speculation-ethereum-dogecoin-spike-analyst-says-btcs-next-leg-up-will-pump-it-above-130000">Bitcoin Flat As $1 Billion Whale Move Sparks Speculation, Ethereum, Dogecoin Spike: Analyst Says BTC&#8217;s Next Leg Up Will Pump It Above $130,000</a>
At the time, one Bitcoin cost $55,681.79. Fast forward to July 2025, when the top cryptocurrency has surpassed $123,000 and is consolidating in the early $119,000s as of this writing. This equates to returns of more than 2x in just over four years.
But despite all of this, Ramsey has remained steadfast in his skepticism. He recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44928472/dave-ramsey-urges-a-caller-to-sell-crypto-to-pay-off-debt-the-only-track-record-crypto-has-is-extreme-volatility">advised a couple to offload their cryptocurrency</a> to settle their debt, stating, "The only track record crypto has is extreme volatility."
He questioned their expectations of an impending bull run, asking, &#8220;What happens if Trump burps again?&#8221; referring to the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44703777/bitcoin-falls-to-81k-after-trumps-tariffs-is-a-violent-reversal-coming">potential pitfalls</a> of President Donald Trump's economic policies.
Price Action:&nbsp; At the time of writing, XRP was exchanging hands at $119,365, up 1.25% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>. Year-to-date, the coin has rallied over 25%.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46510388/bitcoin-could-explode-to-136000-if-this-happens-says-analytics-firm">Bitcoin Could Explode to $136,000 if This Happens, Says Analytics Firm</a></li>
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Photo Courtesy: PV productions on Shutterstock

Dave Ramsey Once Compared Bitcoin And Other Cryptos With Blackjack And Cocaine — And Even 2025 Bull Run Hasn't Changed His Mind

In a conversation last year, defense tech entrepreneur Palmer Luckey criticized Silicon Valley's obsession with "easy money" ventures, saying a tighter funding environment is finally forcing founders to solve real-world problems.
What Happened: Appearing on Bloomberg's The Circuit in May 2024, Luckey, the founder of Anduril Industries, reflected on the dramatic shift in the tech startup landscape as zero interest rates faded and funding dried up.
"There's a lot of companies that shouldn't have existed. They never should have been funded," Luckey told host Emily Chang. "All that money went to paying people to do things that were a waste of time."
He cited examples like crypto art and the glut of delivery apps as symptoms of the excess, adding, "Now that money has become harder to come by, you know what [founders] are working on? They're working on energy, they're working on national security, they're working on transportation."
Chang replied, "So it's time to build," to which Luckey responded, "It's time to build."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/07/46506798/oculus-founder-palmer-luckeys-lord-of-the-rings-inspired-digital-bank-hits-2-billion-valuation-with-b">Oculus Founder Palmer Luckey&#8217;s &#8216;Lord Of The Rings&#8217;-Inspired Digital Bank Hits $2 Billion Valuation With Backing From Founders Fund</a>
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Why It&#8217;s Important: Luckey's remarks echoed a broader reckoning in the startup ecosystem triggered by the Federal Reserve's interest rate hikes in 2022–2023, ending over a decade of "easy money."
As PBS <a href="https://www.pbs.org/wgbh/frontline/article/silicon-valley-bank-federal-reserve/">reported</a> in 2023, Silicon Valley Bank collapsed under pressure from those rate hikes, revealing the fragility of tech's overdependence on cheap loans and venture capital.
In its documentary, PBS noted how loose monetary policy since the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/46115112/ai-panic-feels-like-2008-global-financial-crisis-all-over-again-shapiro-says-as-retail-sales-plunge-4">2008 financial crisis</a> led to inflated valuations and unsustainable business models. As Warren Buffett famously said, "Only when the tide goes out do you learn who's been swimming naked."
CNBC similarly <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2022/05/18/what-comes-after-easy-money-era-ends-for-cash-burning-tech-companies.html">reported</a> in 2022 that venture capital deal terms are now tighter, valuations have corrected and many startups are turning to down rounds or convertible notes.
Growth at all costs has given way to growth with discipline—and Luckey believes that's a long-overdue correction.
Founders who once burned millions chasing market share are now being asked to prove sustainability, profitability, and purpose—trends that may redefine the next era of Silicon Valley.
Photo Courtesy: janews on Shutterstock.com
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Palmer Luckey Once Brutally Bashed Silicon Valley's Obsession With Easy Cash: 'All The Money Went To Paying People To Do Things That Were A Waste Of Time'

Financial personality Grant Cardone has shared a bunch of hot takes throughout his career, including his latest tidbit about 401(k) and IRA plans. He refers to these retirement accounts as "<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@grantcardone/video/7525905685792541965?lang=en">the biggest scam</a>" in finance.&nbsp;
Cardone is bound to get some resistance since these accounts have been touted as valuable investment vehicles for many years. However, Cardone expands on his argument in a way that will leave some people considering alternative strategies to save money for retirement.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">You Can't Get Out</h2>
Cardone asserts that retirement plans make you a prisoner to the bank since you can't withdraw your money at any time. You must be at least 59 ½ years old before you can make penalty-free withdrawals. Some people would benefit a lot more if they could access the same money sooner.
Cardone also mentions that there's a lot of friction on your way out. You will have to pay income taxes on any withdrawals you make from a traditional retirement account. The tax rates can get quite high depending on where you live.
Most people know that if you avoid taxes on retirement account contributions, you will have to pay taxes when you make withdrawals. The opposite applies to Roth retirement accounts. These accounts tax you on the way in, but you don't pay any taxes on withdrawals,&nbsp; capital gains, or dividends.&nbsp;
You also have to make required minimum distributions, which the IRS defines, in case you get any ideas about hoarding money in your retirement accounts to prolong your tax payments. The IRS only has RMDs in place for traditional retirement accounts. Roth accounts get a free pass from this rule.
Trending: Named a TIME Best Invention and Backed by 5,000+ Users, Kara's Air-to-Water Pod Cuts Plastic and Costs — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/americans-spend-1000-per-year-on-plastic-water-bottles-kara-pod-gives-you-clean-drinking-water-by-pulling-moisture-from-the-air">And You Can Invest At Just $6.37/Share</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">You Don't Know Which Companies Are Receiving Your Money</h2>
Retirement accounts typically let you choose from some funds, but most investors do not know what they are funding. Cardone explains that your retirement account may be funding big pharma, military campaigns, and other initiatives that you may not support.&nbsp;
Large corporations often rely on investors to remain solvent and fund new projects. Your money may be going to shady organizations if you stick it in a fund without reviewing the holdings.&nbsp;
There's also the risk of losing money in your retirement account due to administrative fees. Some 401(k) providers charge admin fees that are close to 2%, and that doesn't even include a fund's expense ratio.
These fees can eat up all of your profits and result in a net loss in your 401(k) plan. That doesn't even include the amount you'll have to pay in taxes once you are ready to withdraw your money.
See Also: This AI-Powered Trading Platform Has 5,000+ Users, 27 Pending Patents, and a $43.97M Valuation — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/finally-a-fully-automated-trading-platform-for-individual-investors?">You Can Become an Investor for Just $500.25</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Real Estate Is A Tax Haven</h2>
Unsurprisingly, Cardone mentioned real estate as a viable solution to retirement accounts. You can use leverage to get real estate sooner and generate monthly cash flow from your property. Real estate comes with a bunch of write-offs that you won't find with other investments.
It's important to remember that real estate requires a lot of work, especially if you get started with a bunch of single-family homes. You will have to handle phone calls, regularly check properties, deal with various issues like leaks and mold, make property repairs, and do a bunch of other things.
Real estate gets easier if you can invest in apartment buildings since all of the units are located in the same place. Real estate is not for everyone, but the people who master this asset can unlock some of the best tax advantages in the entire tax code.
Read Next: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $10.</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

Grant Cardone Explains Why The 401(k) Is 'The Biggest Scam' In Finance

On Monday, the Trump administration made public over 240,000 pages of FBI surveillance records on Martin Luther King Jr., a move that has sparked controversy among King&#8217;s family and the civil rights organization he co-founded.
What Happened: The documents were under a court seal since 1977. The FBI initially collected these records, which were later transferred to the National Archives and Records Administration, <a href="https://apnews.com/article/martin-luther-king-fbi-files-donald-trump-1a58c3f0c9ec8878e487434e0d372b81">reported</a> AP News.
The files contain leads the FBI pursued post King&#8217;s assassination and the CIA&#8217;s focus on King&#8217;s transition&nbsp;to international anti-war and anti-poverty&nbsp;movements in the years preceding his death.
King&#8217;s offspring, Martin III and Bernice, who had early access to the records, stressed the personal aspect of the issue and encouraged the files to &#8220;be viewed within their full historical context.&#8221;
National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard labeled the disclosure as &#8220;unprecedented&#8221; and commended President Donald Trump for advocating the matter. The records were originally set to be sealed until 2027.
However, some civil rights activists, including Rev. Al Sharpton, censured the release as a diversion from the Trump administration&#8217;s management of other sensitive records.
&#8220;It's a desperate attempt to distract people from the firestorm engulfing Trump over the Epstein files and the public unraveling of his credibility among the MAGA base,&#8221; said Sharpton.
The Southern Christian Leadership Conference, which King co-founded, objected to the release, contending that the FBI&#8217;s surveillance of King and other civil rights figures was unlawful.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/23/07/33098371/chicago-firm-sees-value-in-ny-rec-market-speeds-up-roll-out-with-150m-investment" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Chicago Firm Sees Value In NY Rec Market, Speeds Up Roll-Out With $150M Investment</a>
Why It Matters: The Trump administration has a history of declassifying sensitive documents. In 2017, President Trump released over 2,800 files related to the investigation into President John F. Kennedy's&nbsp;assassination, as reported by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/politics/17/10/10249182/amid-release-of-jfk-files-majority-of-americans-believe-there-was-a-">Benzinga</a>. However, nearly 250 documents were held back for a 180-day review by government agencies.
As a candidate in the 2024 elections, Trump promised to release records related to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. He signed an order to do that in January after being sworn in. 
In April, Trump also made public approximately 10,000 pages of records related to the 1968 assassination of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy (D-N.Y.).
On Friday, Trump called for the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46486660/trump-directs-pam-bondi-to-release-more-epstein-documents-subject-to-court-approval-threatens-legal-action-against-wsj-over-epstein-letter">release of additional documents</a> related to the disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein investigation and threatened legal action against The Wall Street Journal over what he claimed was a false article. He directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to seek court approval to unseal grand jury testimony and criticized the Journal for publishing a letter he alleged was fake.
Trump&#8217;s recent actions appeared aimed at pushing back against renewed scrutiny over his past ties to Epstein, following a Wall Street Journal report about a birthday album compiled by Ghislaine Maxwell that included a letter from him. The move also sought to reassure supporters who were angered by the Justice Department's refusal to release more Epstein-related documents.
Photo Courtesy: lazyllama on Shutterstock.com
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

Politics

General

Martin Luther King Jr. FBI Records Released By Trump Administration: Al Sharpton Says, 'Desperate Attempt' To Distract People From Epstein Firestorm

"I pretty much spent everything I earned," actor Jason Isaacs recently admitted, acknowledging that decades of Hollywood paychecks never swelled his savings.&nbsp;
The 62‑year‑old, who played Lucius Malfoy in the "Harry Potter" film series and Timothy Ratliff in HBO's "The White Lotus," spoke candidly in an interview with <a href="https://www.vulture.com/article/jason-isaacs-in-conversation.html">New York magazine</a> about how he matched each raise with equal spending. His candor throws fresh light on lifestyle creep—the silent budget siphon now dogging households even as wages climb and prices cool.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Lifestyle Creep Bites Even Wizards</h2>
Isaacs told New York magazine he earned about $40,000 for every "White Lotus" episode—modest by prestige‑TV standards—yet still "expanded my outgoings to match my incomings."&nbsp;
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Producer David Bernad <a href="https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-features/white-lotus-finale-mike-white-interview-1236177751/">told </a>The Hollywood Reporter that the cast is paid one equal rate. That flat structure, according to Bernad, values art over earnings and keeps budgets trim. Isaacs' confession echoes past stars who vaulted from indie stages to franchise fame only to watch wealth slip away.
"Many feel as though they have to spend more as they progress through career milestones," certified financial planner Matt Saneholtz of Tobias Financial Advisors told <a href="https://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/business/money-report/white-lotus-star-jason-isaacs-says-he-has-pretty-much-spent-everything-he-has-ever-earned/6310380/">CNBC </a>for a story on Isaacs' habits, warning the approach "goes against everything" he teaches about building lasting wealth.&nbsp;
Saneholtz says that what begins with a few upgraded purchases—like nicer hotels or premium subscriptions—can quietly grow into a steady habit of overspending.&nbsp;
Trending: Named a TIME Best Invention and Backed by 5,000+ Users, Kara's Air-to-Water Pod Cuts Plastic and Costs — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/americans-spend-1000-per-year-on-plastic-water-bottles-kara-pod-gives-you-clean-drinking-water-by-pulling-moisture-from-the-air">And You Can Invest At Just $6.37/Share</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Planner Urges Automatic Investing</h2>
Saneholtz advises routing a slice of every raise straight into an investment account before it reaches checking. "You won't miss what you don't see," he said, urging quarterly budget reviews and subscription audits.&nbsp;
Fellow planner Robert Persichitte expanded the point, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/white-lotus-jason-isaacs-lifestyle-creep-managing-money-financial-planner-2025-6">telling</a> Business Insider that high‑ticket items like larger homes lock people into lifestyles that are hard to unwind, making it crucial to distinguish between being rich and being wealthy.&nbsp;
Both advisers frame investing as an antidote: every dollar diverted to index funds today can snowball through compounding rather than vanish on fleeting luxuries.
Automatic transfers also blunt decision fatigue, Saneholtz said, because savings grow untouched while discretionary funds remain visible for daily needs. Persichitte added that visibility matters: "If your net pay doesn&#8217;t go up, you don&#8217;t feel rich, and you don&#8217;t feel the need to spend."&nbsp;
Their shared blueprint—save first, spend later—mirrors guidance in Vanguard's long‑running "pay yourself first" campaign.
See Also: This AI-Powered Trading Platform Has 5,000+ Users, 27 Pending Patents, and a $43.97M Valuation — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/finally-a-fully-automated-trading-platform-for-individual-investors?">You Can Become an Investor for Just $500.25</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Surveys Show Thin Safety Nets</h2>
Federal Reserve data underline the stakes. Its latest <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/consumerscommunities/sheddataviz/unexpectedexpenses-table.html">Survey of Household Economics and Decisionmaking</a> found just 63 % of adults could cover a $400 emergency with cash, matching 2024 levels yet below the pandemic peak.&nbsp;
The Fed has <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/other20250528a.htm">noted</a> rising living‑cost worries despite steady employment gains. Meanwhile a <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/investing/financial-advisors/financial-freedom-survey/">Bankrate poll released</a> last month showed 26% of U.S. adults believe they must earn at least $150,000 a year to feel financially secure, up from 25 % last year.
Saneholtz links the numbers, saying lifestyle creep quietly widens the gap between perceived comfort and real financial cushions. Once higher paychecks become the norm, cutting back can feel like failure. He urges clients to automate raises toward retirement goals before lifestyle inflation takes hold.
Read Next: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $10.</a>
Image: Shutterstock

'I Pretty Much Spent Everything I Earned,' Admits 'Harry Potter' Star Jason Isaacs on His Money Habits

GBIO

Trading Halt: Halted at 7:50:00 p.m. ET - Trading Halt: Halt News Pending

CNSP

Marvell Tech (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRVL#NASDAQ">MRVL</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 1.46% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 15.86%. Currently, Marvell Tech has a market capitalization of $62.94 billion. 
Buying $1000 In MRVL: If an investor had bought $1000 of MRVL stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $2,067.93 today based on a price of $73.00 for MRVL at the time of writing.
<h3>Marvell Tech's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1753140616_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

MRVL

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

Cenovus Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVE#NYSE">CVE</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 8.5% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 22.9%. Currently, Cenovus Energy has a market capitalization of $25.47 billion. 
Buying $100 In CVE: If an investor had bought $100 of CVE stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $282.13 today based on a price of $14.04 for CVE at the time of writing.
<h3>Cenovus Energy's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1753139712_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

If You Invested $100 In This Stock 5 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

Six months after its high-profile announcement at the White House, the $500 billion Stargate project — an ambitious joint venture between OpenAI and SoftBank to ramp up America's artificial intelligence infrastructure — has run into major delays and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45898547/openai-looks-to-raise-40-billion-from-global-investors-including-saudi-arabias-pif-indias-reliance-industries-to-accelerate-ai-models-and-stargate-report">scaled-back ambitions. </a>
The Details: Despite a splashy debut that included vows of investing $100 billion "immediately," Stargate has yet to secure a single major data center deal.&nbsp;
Instead, the project is now focused on building a much smaller facility in Ohio by year's end, as partners struggle to agree on crucial terms, <a href="https://www.wsj.com/tech/ai/softbank-openai-a3dc57b4">according </a>to the Wall Street Journal.&nbsp;
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At the heart of the slowdown are differences between OpenAI and SoftBank regarding the partnership's structure and implementation, which have prevented the new entity from making significant advances.&nbsp;
Although both companies committed billions and shared leadership responsibilities — SoftBank's Masayoshi Son overseeing finances and OpenAI's Sam Altman managing operations — persistent disputes over control and strategy have left Stargate's momentum waning.
Why It Matters: OpenAI has forged ahead independently, recently<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46241424/openais-4-5-gw-lease-from-oracle-fuels-stargates-500-billion-vision"> striking a blockbuster</a> $30 billion annual deal with Oracle Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) for cloud computing capacity. The agreement with Oracle, along with smaller deals with other data center providers, brings OpenAI close to meeting the annual expansion targets Stargate set out for itself, even as the joint project lags behind. 
SoftBank, undeterred by setbacks, remains optimistic about OpenAI and is reportedly interested in further investment despite Stargate's rocky start.&nbsp;
While leaders from both companies publicly maintain that their partnership is strong, the reality is that slow progress and internal disagreements have dampened early expectations.&nbsp;
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Large Cap

Movers

Tech

ORCL

$500 Billion Stumble: SoftBank–OpenAI's Massive AI Vision Faces Setbacks

Equitable Holdings (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQH#NYSE">EQH</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 6.42% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 20.82%. Currently, Equitable Holdings has a market capitalization of $15.90 billion. 
Buying $1000 In EQH: If an investor had bought $1000 of EQH stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $2,538.61 today based on a price of $51.91 for EQH at the time of writing.
<h3>Equitable Holdings's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1753138827_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

If You Invested $1000 In This Stock 5 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

As we reach the midpoint of the year, recession fears are slowly abating. In May, <a href="https://www.jpmorgan.com/insights/global-research/economy/recession-probability">J.P.Morgan</a> lowered the probability of a recession occurring in 2025 from 60% to 40%. However, it still warned that a period of subpar growth could lie ahead, especially if tariffs remain high.&nbsp;
While the news has calmed some of the fear surrounding the economy, it hasn't eliminated all of it. A <a href="https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/news/layoff-anxiety">survey</a> conducted by Indeed and Harris Poll in June found that 46% of Americans are concerned about layoffs within the next year.
If you count yourself among that number, we have some good news. <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/12/10-strongest-us-economies-recession-top-states-for-business-rankings.html">CNBC</a> has identified the 10 states with economies that are least likely to be affected by a recession.
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To score each state's economy, the outlet considered factors like state gross domestic product growth, job growth, state fiscal health, housing market health, among others. Additionally, CNBC looked at how dependent each state is on the federal government for jobs and funding, and how greatly it could be impacted by a potential trade war.
These ten states, it says, "have what it takes to navigate a recession."
At No. 10 is South Carolina. The state is fairly vulnerable to increased tariffs, thanks to the fact that international goods trade made up around one-third of its economy in 2024, but it also has one of the fastest-growing economies in the union, as well as significant job growth.
Georgia's diverse economy puts it at No. 9, and Utah, which led the nation in gross domestic product growth in 2024, comes in at number eight.
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Idaho, which is fairly insulated from the trade war but heavily dependent on the federal government for jobs and funding, is number seven on CNBC's list. Washington state, New York and Delaware take up the sixth, fifth and fourth spots, respectively.
At No. 3 is North Carolina, which is also CNBC's top state for business overall in 2025. Despite some setbacks from Hurricane Helene, the state is affordable, sheltered from federal job and budget cuts, and home to three major companies— Bank of America (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BAC#NYSE">BAC</a>), Duke Energy (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DUK#NYSE">DUK</a>), and Nucor (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NUE#NYSE">NUE</a>)— that provide a large number of jobs.
Texas has the second-most recession-proof economy in the US, CNBC reports. The sheer size of its economy helps offset concerns about its reliance on the federal government for jobs and international trade.&nbsp;
The most stable economy in the nation, according to CNBC's estimation, is Florida. Topping the list for the third year in a row, Florida benefits from strong finances, healthy economic and job growth, and a wealth of new business formations. However, the state does rely on the federal government for 34% of its budget, which has experts cautioning against complete trust in the Sunshine State.&nbsp;
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</ul>
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Worried About A Recession? These 10 States Have The Strongest, Most Recession-Proof Economies

Several space stocks jumped last week on successful missions and bullish analyst coverage, while others slipped due to delays <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/space/25/07/46397540/space-stock-watch-spacex-prepares-launch-for-project-kuiper-jim-cramer-calls-rocket-lab-a-buy">and new offerings.</a>
Here's a look at what's going on the space sector:&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AST SpaceMobile &#8211; ASTS </h2>
AST SpaceMobile, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ASTS#NASDAQ">ASTS</a>) shares are up nearly 17% over the past five days, even after dipping slightly on Monday. 
Several analysts have recently updated coverage on the stock, including:&nbsp;
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>BofA Securities initiated coverage on AST with a Neutral rating and announced a price target of $55.</li>
<li>Scotiabank analyst Andres Coello downgraded AST from a Sector Outperform rating to a Sector Perform rating and announced a $45.40 price target.</li>
<li>B. Riley Securities analyst Mike Crawford maintained a Buy rating on AST and raised the price target from $36 to $44.</li>
</ul>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Rocket Lab &#8211; RKLB</h2>
Rocket Lab Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RKLB#NASDAQ">RKLB</a>) shares hit all-time highs last week after Citigroup maintained a Buy rating and raised its target from $33 to $50, citing continued progress on the company's Neutron rocket development and a growing satellite systems unit.
Rocket Lab has a 100% mission success rate in 2025 with 10 Electron missions completed year-to-date and four successful launches in June alone.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BlackSky &#8211; BKSY</h2>
BlackSky Technology, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKSY#NYSE">BKSY</a>) stock plunged last week after the company<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/space/25/07/46481437/blacksky-stock-drops-after-hours-what-happened"> announced an upsized </a>$160 million senior convertible notes offering and disclosed disappointing preliminary second-quarter results. 
The company disclosed in an <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1753539/000175353925000067/bksy-20250717.htm">8-K filing</a> preliminary, unaudited second-quarter revenue of $22 million, versus the estimate of $27.73 million.
In the same filing, the company estimated fiscal year revenue in a range of $105 million to $130 million.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Virgin Galactic &#8211; SPCE</h2>
Virgin Galactic Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPCE#NYSE">SPCE</a>) shares have gained 33% on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/07/46470320/chamaths-spacs-are-crushing-nvidia-wall-street-didnt-see-this-coming">strong volume </a>and rising investor sentiment over the past week. The company is set to report its second-quarter results before the opening bell on Aug. 6. 
Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46374434/joby-aviation-stock-goes-vertical-as-secret-massive-drone-achieves-9-hour-flight?utm_source=articleShare">Joby Aviation Stock Goes Vertical As Secret, Massive Drone Achieves 9-Hour Flight</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Planet Labs &#8211; PL </h2>
Last Thursday, Planet Labs Pbc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PL#NYSE">PL</a>) announced an expanded multi-year contract with Colombia's Instituto Geográfico Agustín Codazzi to provide satellite data and AI-powered analytics for land management. 
Planet Labs shares are up more than 32% over the past month on a series of major<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/07/46199452/planet-labs-pl-stock-surges-on-major-defense-contracts"> recent contract wins </a>with global defense and intelligence agencies.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Intuitive Machines &#8211; LUNR </h2>
Intuitive Machines, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUNR#NASDAQ">LUNR</a>) stock dropped more than 9% on Monday despite a lack of company-specific news. 
Last week, BofA Securities analyst Ronald Epstein maintained an Underperform rating on the stock and lowered the price target from $16 to $10.50.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Project Kuiper </h2>
Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) advanced its Project Kuiper satellite initiative by launching 24 new satellites last week, bringing the total to 78. Amazon partnered with SpaceX, parent company of rival Starlink, for the launch. 
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Photo: Shutterstock

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Space Stock Tracker: Virgin Galactic Makes A Comeback While Rocket Lab Takes A Breather

Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy is known for his opinions on sports. In recent years, he also became well known for his opinions about<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42602503/dave-portnoy-says-he-owns-15-million-bitcoin-13-million-xrp-bet-it-and-set-it-not-trading"> the cryptocurrency sector.</a> He recently sold his stake in XRP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>) and missed out on millions of dollars.
What Happened: Portnoy, who was known to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43647226/dave-portnoy-buys-risk-laden-dave-fartnoy-after-promoting-controversial-jailstool-im-in-this-one-to-make-money"> invest in altcoins </a>earlier this year, shared back in December that he held $1.3 million in XRP Token and $1.5 million in Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>). The investor said he planned to set the investments and forget them.
Fast forward to July 2025 and Portnoy recently admitted in a video shared July 17 that he sold his XRP at around $2.40.
Portnoy <a href="https://x.com/stoolpresidente/status/1947290161089302900">said </a>XRP was going from $2.10 to $2.40, back to $2.10, back to $2.40. A crypto analyst who has given Portnoy advice texted and said he didn't like what XRP was doing and thought that Circle Internet Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRCL#NYSE">CRCL</a>) and the competition in the stablecoin space could be bad news for XRP.
The Barstool Sports founder said he had close to $3 million in XRP and decided to sell it when it went back up to $2.40.
"I wasn't going to sell it. I was going to diamond hands it," Portnoy said.
After selling the XRP, the cryptocurrency "went parabolic," according to Portnoy.
"I blame my $XRP guy who texted me out of the blue to say he didn't like it as much anymore," Portnoy tweeted.
The investor said the person who texted him said they didn't sell their XRP as they hold things for five years.
"I would have made millions. I want to cry."
Portnoy said selling early and missing out on millions "made me sick to my stomach."
XRP trades at $3.53 today, with the one-month range $1.91 to $3.65. The recent high of $3.65 is just shy of an all-time high of $3.84 hit back in 2018 and marks the highest price for XRP in seven years. 
Read Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/07/46356164/if-you-invested-1000-in-xrp-token-when-snoop-dogg-performed-at-ripples-2018-event-heres-how-much-youd-have-today"> If You Invested $1,000 In XRP Token When Snoop Dogg Performed At Ripple&#8217;s 2018 Event, Here&#8217;s How Much You&#8217;d Have Today</a>
Why It's Important: Despite the missed profits in XRP, Portnoy said he's still made profits on his Bitcoin and Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) investments.
"I'm still doing good," Portnoy said.
Portnoy's investments in Bitcoin and XRP in December 2024 happened after the investor<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/12/42403470/michael-saylor-uses-lebron-james-michael-jordan-sports-analogy-to-explain-bitcoin-to-dave-portnoy-satoshi-gave-us-a-game-we-can-all-win" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;interviewed Bitcoin bull</a>&nbsp;Michael Saylor.
&#8220;I&#8217;m always late to these runs,&#8221; Portnoy said in response to a viewer of his &#8220;Davey Day Trader Global&#8221; stream.
Portnoy also shared that he is holding his Bitcoin, saying he had 15 Bitcoin, worth around $1.5 million.
&#8220;I&#8217;m gonna bet it and set it, not trading,&#8221; Portnoy said of the cryptocurrencies.
During the streams, Portnoy also discussed the optimism for Ripple and XRP thanks to the launch of the stablecoin, while adding that RLUSD was not a hidden thing.
&#8220;Already so much hype.&#8221;
The Barstool Sports founder asked Saylor, who is known as one of the biggest Bitcoin bulls, to explain Bitcoin to him in a way he can understand. The interview came after Portnoy confessed to selling his Bitcoin after the&nbsp;Winklevoss twins&nbsp;confused&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42361200/dave-portnoy-blames-winklevoss-twins-for-confusing-him-into-selling-bitcoin-too-early" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">him back in 2020.</a>
Portnoy&#8217;s investment in XRP came after Saylor essentially told him to buy Bitcoin and not worry about other investments.
Along with cryptocurrency investments, Portnoy is also up on<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/07/46511927/dave-portnoys-10-million-elon-musk-bet-pays-off-as-tesla-soars-12-in-two-weeks-thats-a-million-bucks"> his recent buy</a> of Tesla Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) stock. Portnoy invested $10 million in Tesla two weeks ago with shares down on bearishness from a battle between CEO Elon Musk and President Donald Trump.
While the initial investment was down shortly after Portnoy's trade, Tesla stock is now up around 12% from his purchase, surpassing his original goal of making 10% or a couple million bucks on the short-term trade.
Read Next: 
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43605114/dave-portnoy-holds-millions-in-bitcoin-and-xrp-but-heres-why-he- -his-heart-is-too-big-for-this-space">Dave Portnoy Holds Millions In Bitcoin And XRP, But Here&#8217;s Why He Concluded His Heart Is &#8216;Too Big For This Space&#8217;</a></li>
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Photo: Shutterstock

$XRP

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Dave Portnoy Says 'I Want To Cry' After Selling XRP Token Before New 7-Year Highs

Being rich isn't about having a six-car garage. It's about having habits that quietly, steadily build wealth while everyone else is upgrading phones and wondering where their paycheck went.
These seven habits come up again and again among millionaires. And none of them require a windfall or a finance degree—just consistency and discipline.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Pay Yourself First</h2>
Before bills, before brunch, before that "treat yourself" impulse—<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45483330/are-you-rich-or-just-upper-middle-class-heres-the-net-worth-and-income-it-takes-to-be-considered-wealthy">wealthy people</a> pay themselves first. That means setting up automatic transfers into investment or savings accounts as soon as income hits the bank.
<a href="https://www.kiplinger.com/personal-finance/habits-rich-people-swear-by-to-build-and-maintain-wealth">Kiplinger reports</a> that this is one of the most common habits among the wealthy. It's not about how much—it's about doing it first. Whether it's 10%, 20%, or even $100 a month, they treat savings like a non-negotiable expense.
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<li>Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $10.</a></li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Live Well Below Their Means</h2>
Warren Buffett is worth over $140 billion, but he still lives in the Omaha house he bought in 1958 for $31,500. And yes, he still drives a 2014 Cadillac with hail damage. That's not branding—it's behavior.
According to the <a href="https://cdn.ramseysolutions.net/media/company/pr/everyday-millionaires-research/national-study-of-millionaire-new.pdf?_ga=2.189822635.1855513792.1692150662-1346847639.1681131637&amp;_gl=1&#x2A;1vlmin0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTM0Njg0NzYzOS4xNjgxMTMxNjM3&#x2A;_ga_02SXDH1H96&#x2A;MTY5MjE1MDY2MS4yOC4xLjE2OTIxNTQwNjYuMC4wLjA.&#x2A;_fplc&#x2A;TlJHNFAlMkI5OEZwODBURmVFWTh5c0FRaGhpTGslMkZ3NFNkRmJvV05qOHVsNnJicEcyV0dJQ3hsVE9mUE9hejNoZUpkMjhkUGJMeVlGbDhOcFpwMkdUUWklMkZaR1pzSG1XeWZSV0pIMWNoM0cxWnpzOXVVN1JiUGI2S1QlMkJNakhCeEElM0QlM0Q.">Dave Ramsey's National Study of Millionaires</a>, which surveyed over 10,000 U.S. millionaires, 94% said they live on less than they make. Nearly one-third drove Toyotas or Hondas. Only 8% drove luxury vehicles like Lexus. The message? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45482749/vincent-chan-shares-tricks-people-use-to-appear-richer-than-their-friends-youre-not-behind">People who look rich often aren't</a>—and the people who are rich aren't trying to prove it.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Invest Early and Automatically</h2>
Rich people don't wait to "feel ready" to invest. They start early, keep going, and let time do the heavy lifting. It's boring. It's reliable. And it works.
<a href="https://www.elavateglobal.com/ezines/https/growacornscom/habits-millionaires-have-in-common">Tom Corley</a>, who spent five years studying 233 self-made millionaires, found that Saver-Investors—the largest group in his research—took an average of 32 years to reach millionaire status. They didn't make their money in some big event. They made it in monthly deposits and compound interest.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. Build Multiple Streams of Income</h2>
If one paycheck stops, most people panic. Wealthy people don't have to. That's because many of them don't rely on just one income stream.
Corley's research found that 65% of self-made millionaires had at least three income sources. This might include rental properties, dividends, a side business, or freelance consulting. Forbes also highlights income diversification as one of the top traits of financially resilient entrepreneurs. The takeaway? Multiple streams don't just add income—they lower risk.
Trending: $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.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. Read More Than You Scroll</h2>
Warren Buffett <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/warren-buffett-favorite-books-2016-10">reportedly spends 80%</a> of his daily reading—annual reports, newspapers, books, not memes. That level of reading isn't necessary for everyone, but the habit of ongoing learning absolutely is.
Wealthy people tend to prioritize books, financial education, and news that helps them make better decisions. That includes biographies, investment guides, and business strategy—not reality TV recaps.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">6. Practice Ruthless Self-Control</h2>
If there's one trait that shows up over and over again in millionaire behavior, it's this: they're exceptionally good at telling themselves "not yet." That kind of discipline isn't just financial—it's psychological.
The connection isn't just observational. The famous Stanford Marshmallow Experiment in the 1970s tested children's ability to delay gratification—offering them one marshmallow now or two if they waited. Years later, the kids who waited scored higher in SATs, had better health outcomes, and managed stress more effectively.
Sound familiar?
Self-made millionaires—according to Corley's research—display a long-term mindset in almost every area of life. They set goals and chip away at them. They don't chase overnight wins. They don't need to impress anyone today if it means sacrificing tomorrow. And they're incredibly consistent.
They're also far more likely to avoid debt traps, skip luxury purchases, and stick to budgets. Ramsey Solutions found that nearly all of the 10,000 millionaires surveyed avoided credit card debt altogether—and most avoided new car loans too. Not because they couldn't afford them, but because they didn't want the financial drag.
See Also: Named a TIME Best Invention and Backed by 5,000+ Users, Kara's Air-to-Water Pod Cuts Plastic and Costs — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/americans-spend-1000-per-year-on-plastic-water-bottles-kara-pod-gives-you-clean-drinking-water-by-pulling-moisture-from-the-air">And You Can Invest At Just $6.37/Share</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">7. Protect What They've Built</h2>
The wealthy aren't just focused on earning more—they're focused on not losing what they already have. That means estate plans, legal structures, insurance policies, emergency funds, and tax strategies.
As Kiplinger notes, wealth protection is one of the most crucial elements of personal finance. One lawsuit or unexpected medical bill can wipe out years of progress. The rich avoid that by planning like something will go wrong—and being ready for it.
None of these habits are magic. They're just boring on purpose. But stacked together over time? They're what <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset">separate the rich from the restless</a>.
So the real question isn't whether these habits work—it's whether you're using them.
Read Next: This AI-Powered Trading Platform Has 5,000+ Users, 27 Pending Patents, and a $43.97M Valuation — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/finally-a-fully-automated-trading-platform-for-individual-investors?">You Can Become an Investor for Just $500.25</a>
Image: Shutterstock

Here Are 7 Habits Rich People Use To Build And Maintain Wealth — How Many Are Part Of Your Routine?

AutoZone (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AZO#NYSE">AZO</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 8.92% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 21.14%. Currently, AutoZone has a market capitalization of $62.39 billion. 
Buying $100 In AZO: If an investor had bought $100 of AZO stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $1,758.79 today based on a price of $3729.70 for AZO at the time of writing.
<h3>AutoZone's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1753137020_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Date	Put/Call	Strike Price	Exp Date	DTE	Trade Vol	Day Vol	Vol / OI	OI	Trade Type	Sentiment
09:57 AMJul 16, 2025	PUT	$135.00	Aug 15, 2025	23	46	747	6	793	SWEEP	BEARISH
02:54 PMJul 15, 2025	CALL	$115.00	Aug 15, 2025	23	219	219	7300	3	TRADE	BEARISH

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