Friedrich Merz of the conservative CDU is likely to become Germany's new chancellor, according to exit polls from Sunday's elections. The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/eurozone/25/01/42920583/musk-supports-german-afd-party-as-remedy-for-faltering-economy">far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD)</a> finished second.



What Happened: <a href="https://www.reuters.com/graphics/GERMANY-ELECTION/RESULTS/movaynkgova/">Reuters</a> reports that the first exit polls show the conservative CDU/CSU bloc taking about 28% of the vote. The AfD is on track to finish with about 20% of the vote.



Current Chancellor Olaf Scholz's Social Democratic Party (SPD) is running third, with about 16%, which would be its worst showing in decades. The Greens have about 13% of the vote, with several other parties dividing the remainder.



Despite the CDU/CSU bloc&#8217;s comfortable lead, Germany may face months of political uncertainty as the party will need to form a coalition to secure a majority.



The conservative bloc, composed of the Christian Democrats (CDU) and its Bavarian sister party the Christian Social Union, stands for low taxes, budget discipline, conservative-liberal values, and a strong role for Germany within the European Union and NATO.



The AfD, established as an anti-euro party in 2013, has evolved into an anti-immigrant grouping with some radical far-right members. Its leader, Alice Weidel, recently received support from the new U.S. administration, including a meeting with U.S. Vice President JD Vance and an endorsement from Elon Musk.



Why It Matters: The election results could have significant implications for Germany&#8217;s economy and its stance on immigration. The AfD&#8217;s surge in popularity is notable, particularly given its anti-immigrant stance and the recent endorsement from Elon Musk.



The election could also impact the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/02/43886450/germanys-2025-election-could-make-or-break-cannabis-legalization-heres-where-key-parties-stand">future of cannabis legalization in Germany</a>. The SPD has been supportive of cannabis legalization. The conservatives&#8217; potential victory could change the course of this policy.



Image: Shutterstock

News

Politics

Merz on Track To Lead Germany Following Sunday Election, Far-Right AfD Takes 20% of Vote

These nine mid-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?



<ol>
<li>Pony AI Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PONY#NASDAQ">PONY</a>) stock rose 58.88% after the company launched paid robotaxi services connecting Guangzhou's city center with Baiyun <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43878528" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">International Airport and South Railway Station</a>.</li>



<li>Celsius Holdings Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CELH#NASDAQ">CELH</a>) stock surged 43.95% after the company reported better-than-expected Q4 financial results. The company also announced the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43868556" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">acquisition of </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43868556" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alani Nutrition</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43868556" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> for $1.65 billion</a>.</li>



<li>WeRide Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WRD#NASDAQ">WRD</a>) shares escalated 42.22%, possibly after NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>)  disclosed a stake of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43739878" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1.74 million shares in a 13F filing</a> last week.</li>



<li>Applied Digital Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/APLD#NASDAQ">APLD</a>) stock jumped 34.64%.</li>



<li>Solaris Energy Infrastructure, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEI#NYSE">SEI</a>) shares upped 31.87% after the company reported <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43872744" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth-quarter financial results</a>.</li>



<li>Vicor (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VICR#NASDAQ">VICR</a>) stock upped 27.80% after the company reported better-than-<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43865613" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected Q4 fourth-quarter financial results</a>.</li>



<li>GDS Holdings Limited (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GDS#NASDAQ">GDS</a>) share rose 24.26%, probably after China's central bank vowed to take measures to support its real estate and shore up the economy.</li>



<li>VNET Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VNET#NASDAQ">VNET</a>) stock upped 24.17%.</li>



<li>The Goodyear Tire &amp; Rubber Company (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GT#NASDAQ">GT</a>) shares escalated 22.15%. </li>
</ol>



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/02/43902979/alibaba-super-micro-computer-and-xpeng-are-among-top-10-large-cap-gainers-last-week-feb-17-feb-21-are-the-others-in-your-portfolio" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alibaba, Super Micro Computer And XPeng Are Among Top 10 Large Cap Gainers Last Week (Feb 17-Feb 21): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/02/43903210/twilio-coinbase-and-reddit-are-among-top-10-large-cap-losers-last-week-feb-17-feb-21-are-the-others-in-your-portfolio" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Twilio, Coinbase And Reddit Are Among Top 10 Large Cap Losers Last Week (Feb 17-Feb 21): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?</a></li>
</ul>



Photo via Shutterstock

Equities

Mid Cap

Movers

Trading Ideas

APLD

CELH

NVDA

PONY

VICR

VNET

Pony AI, Celsius And WeRide Are Among Top 9 Mid Cap Gainers Last Week (Feb 17-Feb 21): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

The week has been a rollercoaster ride in the tech and automotive sectors. From Rivian&#8217;s new limited-edition vehicle to SpaceX&#8217;s controversial delay, Tesla&#8217;s sales slump, and Nikola&#8217;s bankruptcy, there&#8217;s a lot to unpack. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories of the week.



Rivian Unveils &#8216;California Dune&#8217; Edition R1&nbsp;



Rivian Automotive Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIVN#NASDAQ">RIVN</a>) introduced a limited edition of its R1 electric vehicle, the California Dune, designed specifically for off-road sand driving. The company emphasized that this edition is built for the extreme conditions of the desert.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43839672/rivian-unveils-california-dune-edition-r1-ahead-of-earnings-report-catch-it-while-you-can">Read the full article here.</a>



SpaceX CEO Elon Musk Alleges Political Delay 



Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX, claimed that the return of astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore from the International Space Station (ISS) was delayed due to &#8220;political reasons.&#8221; Musk suggested that SpaceX could have brought the astronauts back last year, but the return was pushed past the inauguration date.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/02/43877217/spacex-ceo-elon-musk-pegs-delay-in-returning-sunita-williams-and-butch-wilmore-from-space-station-to-political-reasons">Read the full article here.</a>



Rivian&#8217;s Financial Struggles&nbsp;



Fund Manager Gary Black pointed out that Rivian reported a quarterly gross profit for the first time in Q4, but this was due to the sale of regulatory credits, not cost-cutting. Without this revenue, the company would have lost about $13,000 per vehicle sold in the quarter.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43876738/tesla-bull-says-rivian-is-a-long-way-from-making-money-absent-volkswagen-and-amazon-as-sugar-daddies-they-would-probably-be-history">Read the full article here.</a>



Tesla&#8217;s Sales Slump in California&nbsp;



Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) has seen a significant drop in its California sales, hitting a four-year low. This decline has raised questions about the impact of CEO Musk&#8217;s political actions on the company&#8217;s appeal.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43765071/teslas-california-sales-hit-four-year-low-amid-political-concerns-researcher-says-left-leaning-customers-are-turning-away-from-ev-giant">Read the full article here.</a>



Nikola Files for Bankruptcy&nbsp;



Nikola Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKLA#NASDAQ">NKLA</a>) has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and is seeking to auction its assets while continuing limited operations through March.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/asset-sales/25/02/43811409/nikola-files-for-bankruptcy-seeks-auction-for-sale-of-its-assets">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900186/trump-administration-eyes-mineral-rights-deal-with-ukraine-amid-rising-tensions-were-signing-an-agreement">Trump Administration Eyes Mineral Rights Deal With Ukraine Amid Rising Tensions: &#8216;We&#8217;re Signing An Agreement&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



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>

Tech

NKLA

RIVN

TSLA

Rivian's New Edition, Spacex Delays, Tesla's Decline, And Nikola's Bankruptcy: This Week In Mobility

It was an eventful week for tech giant&nbsp;Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), with the company making headlines for a variety of reasons. From the launch of a new budget-friendly iPhone to a significant investment pledge in the United States, Apple was in the spotlight. Here&#8217;s a recap of the top stories.



Apple Unveils Budget-Friendly iPhone 16e



Apple kicked off the week with the announcement of the iPhone 16e, a new affordable offering that replaces the third-generation iPhone SE. The announcement was made by Apple CEO Tim Cook in a video posted by the company. The new iPhone comes with several improvements over its predecessor.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43820197/apple-unveils-iphone-16e-with-a18-chip-ai-features-599-price-tag">Read the full article here.</a>



Apple Pledges Significant US Investment



In a meeting with President Donald Trump, Tim Cook reportedly pledged a significant investment in the United States and a shift in manufacturing from Mexico to the U.S. This announcement was made by Trump during a meeting with governors.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43898992/tim-cook-reportedly-tells-trump-apple-will-invest-hundreds-of-billions-in-us-they-dont-want-to-be-in-the-tariffs">Read the full article here.</a>



New iPhone Expected to Boost Apple&#8217;s Revenue



Gene Munster of Deepwater Management predicts that the newly launched iPhone 16e will drive a revenue boost for Apple in FY25. Munster shared his insights on Apple's latest offering, highlighting three key takeaways from the new model.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/02/43840286/apples-iphone-16e-to-drive-revenue-growth-for-tim-cooks-company-says-top-analyst">Read the full article here.</a>



Apple May Increase iPhone Prices



In response to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, analysts at the Bank of America suggest that Apple might have to raise iPhone prices by 9%. The tech titan may need to revise its pricing strategy to compensate for the costs related to the tariffs.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/02/43839627/apple-may-hike-iphone-prices-by-9-due-to-trumps-tariffs-says-bank-of-america">Read the full article here.</a>



Wireless Reverse Charging Feature for iPhone 17 Pro



Apple is reportedly testing a wireless reverse charging feature for its upcoming iPhone 17 Pro models. This feature would allow the smartphone to power other devices. The news was reported by a Weibo-based Chinese leaker.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43838655/iphone-17-pro-may-finally-get-wireless-reverse-charging-apple-reportedly-testing-power-sharing-with-airpods-apple-watch-and-more">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900360/bill-gates-has-a-warning-for-the-next-generation-says-be-very-afraid-of-these-4-issues" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates Has A Warning For The Next Generation, Says Be ‘Very Afraid&#8217; Of These 4 Issues</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Analyst Color

Markets

AAPL

Apple's iPhone 16E Launch, US Investment Pledge, Potential Price Hikes, And More: This Week In Appleverse

The week was a rollercoaster ride in the world of cryptocurrency. From&nbsp;Gary Cardone&nbsp;exiting his XRP position to&nbsp;Elon Musk embracing his meme status with Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>), the crypto market was buzzing with activity. Here&#8217;s a quick round-up of the top stories.



Gary Cardone Dumps XRP



Investment influencer Gary Cardone announced his exit from XRP (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>), selling his 30,000 XRP holdings at $2.71. Cardone cited six guiding principles refined over his 40-year finance career as the reason for his decision. He wished the XRP army luck, though he expressed doubts about their potential wealth.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43880897/gary-cardone-dumps-xrp-position-saying-i-genuinely-hope-the-xrp-army-gets-stupid-rich-i-dont-think-you-will">Read the full article here.</a>



Dogecoin Millionaire Advocates for Conviction Plays



Glauber Contessoto, also known as SlumDOGE Millionaire, encouraged his followers to invest in &#8216;conviction plays&#8217; like Pepe amid a broader slump in the meme coin market. He urged his followers to seize the opportunity presented by the ongoing correction to invest in meme coins.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43874379/dogecoin-millionaire-pushes-conviction-plays-like-pepe-like-theres-no-tomorrow-best-time-to-start-buying">Read the full article here.</a>



Peter Schiff Expresses Concerns Over Strategy Inc.&#8217;s Convertible Debt Offerings



Economist and market commentator Peter Schiff expressed concerns over Strategy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>) convertible debt offerings, hinting at potential financial troubles for the Bitcoin treasury company. Schiff highlighted the 4.5% decline in the company's shares despite Bitcoin's gain of 2.5%.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43838036/peter-schiff-says-michael-saylor-led-strategys-convertible-debt-offerings-arent-going-well-as-stock-falls-despite-bitcoins-gain">Read the full article here.</a>



Pepe Bull Questions Traders Selling Frog-Themed Memecoin



A widely followed cryptocurrency trader highlighted the &#8220;Cycle of Regret&#8221; phenomenon, predicting that 99% of the traders cashing out of the frog-themed meme coin Pepe (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">PEPE</a>) won&#8217;t buy it back at a discount. The trader suggested that these traders would panic, wait for a better entry, and then freeze when it dips further.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/02/43805854/pepe-bull-questions-traders-selling-frog-themed-memecoin-theyll-fomo-back-in-higher-than-they-sold">Read the full article here.</a>



Elon Musk Embraces Dogecoin



Tesla Inc. and SpaceX CEO, Elon Musk embraced his meme status during his recent appearance at CPAC 2025, tying it to his association with Dogecoin. Musk described himself as "living the meme," a reference to his connection with Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency that originated from the internet-famous Doge meme.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43878760/dogecoins-journey-from-memecoin-to-real-money-crazy-but-cool-says-elon-musk-i-am-living-the-meme">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900186/trump-administration-eyes-mineral-rights-deal-with-ukraine-amid-rising-tensions-were-signing-an-agreement">Trump Administration Eyes Mineral Rights Deal With Ukraine Amid Rising Tensions: &#8216;We&#8217;re Signing An Agreement&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



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>

Cryptocurrency

$DOGE

$PEPE

$XRP

MSTR

Cardone Exits XRP, Dogecoin Millionaire's Conviction Plays, Schiff's Concerns, Pepe Bull's Predictions, And Musk's Dogecoin Endorsement: This Week In Crypto

The week has been a whirlwind of economic news, with President Donald Trump&#8217;s administration making headlines for its tax proposals and plans for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Meanwhile, gold is nearing the $3000 mark, and billionaire investor Ray Dalio has proposed a solution to America&#8217;s mounting debt crisis. Here&#8217;s a recap of the top stories.



Trump&#8217;s Plan to &#8216;Abolish&#8217; IRS



Howard Lutnick, the newly confirmed Commerce Secretary under President Donald Trump&#8216;s administration, has reiterated the President&#8217;s proposal to abolish the IRS. During an appearance on Fox News, Lutnick stated that Trump&#8217;s goal is to &#8220;abolish the Internal Revenue Service and let all the outsiders pay.&#8221;



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/02/43840909/trumps-goal-is-to-abolish-irs-and-let-all-the-outsiders-pay-says-newly-confirmed-commerce-secretary-howard-lutnick">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump&#8217;s Tax Cut Could Add $4.6 Trillion To Deficit



Former U.S. Secretary of Labor Robert Reich has criticized the tax reduction plans of the Trump administration, terming them as an &#8220;absolutely shameless giveaway,&#8221; that could increase the deficit by $4.6 trillion. The proposed tax cuts for wealthy individuals and lower corporate tax rates are likely to widen the U.S. trade deficit.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43774882/donald-trumps-tax-cut-could-add-46-trillion-to-deficit-says-robert-reich-emphasizing-48-billion-relief-for-top-100-us-firms-via-corporate-tax-cuts">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump&#8217;s &#8216;DOGE Dividend&#8217; Proposal Criticized



President Donald Trump&#8217;s idea of using part of his cost-cutting efforts to reward taxpayers has been criticized by economist Craig Shapiro. Shapiro argues that all savings from the Department Of Government Efficiency (DOGE) should be dedicated to reducing the deficit, debt reduction, and inflation control.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43839198/reduce-deficits-and-debt-full-stop-says-this-economist-as-trump-mulls-doge-dividend-by-giving-away-20-of-its-savings-to-public">Read the full article here.</a>



Gold Nears $3000 Mark



As gold nears the $3000 per ounce mark, experts are highlighting the importance of the precious metal in investment portfolios. Despite trading flat at $2,930.62 per ounce, gold has been testing the $3,000 level after hitting fresh records.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/02/43875557/donald-trump-airs-fort-knox-inspection-as-gold-edges-closer-to-3000-it-is-an-essential-component-of-portfolio-says-expert">Read the full article here.</a>



Ray Dalio&#8217;s Solution to America&#8217;s Debt Crisis



Billionaire investor Ray Dalio has called for urgent measures to address the mounting U.S. federal debt crisis. Dalio proposes reducing the deficit to 3% of gross domestic product from its current level of nearly 7%.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43328856/ray-dalio-backs-trumps-interest-rate-cut-proposes-3-solution-to-tackle-36-trillion-americas-debt-crisis">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900186/trump-administration-eyes-mineral-rights-deal-with-ukraine-amid-rising-tensions-were-signing-an-agreement">Trump Administration Eyes Mineral Rights Deal With Ukraine Amid Rising Tensions: &#8216;We&#8217;re Signing An Agreement&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



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>

Economics

Trump's Tax Plans, Gold Nears $3000, And Ray Dalio's Solution To America's Debt Crisis: This Week In Economics

The past week has been a rollercoaster ride in the world of politics, with President&nbsp;Donald Trump&nbsp;at the center of several significant developments. From a decline in approval ratings to potential multi-billion dollar deals, the Trump administration has been making headlines left, right, and center. Here&#8217;s a quick round-up of the top stories.



Trump&#8217;s Approval Rating Takes a Dip



According to a recent Emerson College poll, President Trump&#8217;s approval rating has seen a decline in February. The poll reveals that 48% of nationally registered voters approve of Trump&#8217;s performance, while 42% disapprove. The remaining 10% remain neutral. This comes in the wake of several of Trump&#8217;s decisions and announcements, including a push for tariffs on countries like Canada, Mexico, and China.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43847433/trump-approval-rating-declines-in-february-unpopular-domestic-and-foreign-policy-ideas">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump Administration Eyes Mineral Rights Deal with Ukraine



In a move that could potentially bring $500 billion to the U.S., President Trump is reportedly inching closer to securing a deal for substantial mineral rights in Ukraine. The President expressed optimism about finalizing the agreement amid escalating tensions between the two nations.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900186/trump-administration-eyes-mineral-rights-deal-with-ukraine-amid-rising-tensions-were-signing-an-agreement">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump Dismisses Top US General, Nominates Retired Officer



In a significant shift in military leadership, President Trump has removed Air Force General C.Q. Brown from his role as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Trump announced his intention to nominate former Lieutenant General Dan "Razin" Caine as Brown's successor, marking the first time a retired officer has been nominated for this prestigious position.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900171/trump-dismisses-top-us-general-breaks-from-tradition-to-nominate-retired-officer-as-top-military-officer">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump&#8217;s Federal Workforce Downsizing Plan Gets Green Light



A federal judge has rejected an appeal by several government employee unions to halt the Trump administration's plans to significantly downsize the federal workforce. This marks another victory for Trump's Justice Department, which is currently defending against numerous lawsuits challenging various executive actions of the president.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43871609/trumps-federal-workforce-downsizing-plan-gets-green-light-from-judge-appeal-by-unions-dismissed">Read the full article here.</a>



Trump's Goal Is To &#8216;Abolish&#8217; IRS, Says Newly Confirmed Commerce Secretary



Howard Lutnick, the newly confirmed Commerce Secretary under President Trump‘s administration, has reiterated the President's proposal for the abolition of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Lutnick stated that Trump&#8217;s goal is to &#8220;let all the outsiders pay.&#8221;



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/02/43840909/trumps-goal-is-to-abolish-irs-and-let-all-the-outsiders-pay-says-newly-confirmed-commerce-secretary-howard-lutnick">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900360/bill-gates-has-a-warning-for-the-next-generation-says-be-very-afraid-of-these-4-issues" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates Has A Warning For The Next Generation, Says Be ‘Very Afraid&#8217; Of These 4 Issues</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

Trump's Approval Rating Drops, Mineral Rights Deal With Ukraine, Top US General's Dismissal, And More: This Week In Politics

The week was abuzz with news from the tech world, with artificial intelligence (AI) taking center stage. From Bill Gates issuing a warning to the next generation to Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) making strides in AI, the weekend was anything but quiet. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories.



Bill Gates&#8217; Warning to the Next Generation



In a recent address, Microsoft Corp. co-founder, Bill Gates, outlined critical challenges that future generations need to tackle. Gates emphasized the importance of addressing bioterrorism, climate change, and artificial intelligence. He also noted the persistent threat of nuclear war and stressed the need for societal unity to combat polarization.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900360/bill-gates-has-a-warning-for-the-next-generation-says-be-very-afraid-of-these-4-issues">Read the full article here.</a>



Nvidia&#8217;s Leap into Assistive Tech



Nvidia has unveiled &#8216;Signs&#8217;, an innovative AI-powered platform designed to enhance American Sign Language (ASL) learning and accessibility. The platform, developed in partnership with the American Society for Deaf Children and Hello Monday, marks Nvidia&#8217;s entry into the assistive technology space.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/02/43874865/nvidia-unveils-signs-ai-platform-for-teaching-american-sign-language-expanding-into-assistive-tech">Read the full article here.</a>



Alibaba&#8217;s AI Strategy



Alibaba Group executives believe that the real value in AI will come from cloud infrastructure rather than the models themselves. During Alibaba&#8217;s third-quarter earnings call, an executive addressed the impact of DeepSeek&#8217;s free large-language models and AI monetization strategies.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43874037/alibaba-sees-ai-gold-rush-in-cloud-computing-not-open-and-closed-source-modelshints-monetization-lies-in-powering-ai-not-selling-it">Read the full article here.</a>



Elon Musk&#8217;s Grok Tops App Store



Elon Musk&#8217;s AI startup xAI&#8217;s Grok has surpassed OpenAI&#8217;s ChatGPT, Google's Gemini, and China&#8217;s DeepSeek to become the leading productivity app on Apple Inc.&#8217;s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) App Store. Musk shared a screenshot highlighting the achievement of Grok, noting that it secured the top position without even launching its voice mode and additional upcoming features.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43841642/elon-musks-grok-overtakes-openais-chatgpt-google-gemini-and-chinas-deepseek-as-the-leading-productivity-app-on-apples-app-store">Read the full article here.</a>



Nvidia&#8217;s Evo 2 Set to Transform Genetic Research



NVIDIA has introduced Evo 2, an advanced AI system aimed at transforming the field of biological research. Evo 2 is set to fast-track advancements in genetics and medicine by rapidly analyzing and generating genetic code from a wide range of organisms. According to Nvidia, this project ‘provides insights into DNA, RNA and proteins across diverse species.'



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/02/43841450/nvidias-new-ai-system-aims-to-transform-genetic-research-with-unmatched-speed-and-precision">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43900360/bill-gates-has-a-warning-for-the-next-generation-says-be-very-afraid-of-these-4-issues" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates Has A Warning For The Next Generation, Says Be ‘Very Afraid&#8217; Of These 4 Issues</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/Rounak-Jain" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rounak Jain</a>

BABA

Bill Gates' Concerns, Nvidia' Leap In Genetic Research, Elon Musk's Grok Beats OpenAI's ChatGPT, And More: This Week In AI

These ten large-cap stocks were the worst performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?



<ol>
<li>Akamai Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AKAM#NASDAQ">AKAM</a>) stock fell 23.01% following weak FY25 guidance. Several analysts lowered the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sfm/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast on the stock</a>.</li>



<li>Axon Enterprise (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXON#NASDAQ">AXON</a>) shares fell 22.79% after Craig-Hallum analyst Jeremy Hamblin downgraded the stock from Buy to Hold and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/axon/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">announced a $625 price forecast</a>.</li>



<li>Twilio Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TWLO#NYSE">TWLO</a>) shares tumbled 22.39% after the company reported mixed fourth-quarter results and analysts revised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43742521" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">forecasts on the stock</a>.</li>



<li>EPAM Systems Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EPAM#NYSE">EPAM</a>) stock declined 21.97% following its fourth-quarter and full-year 2024 earnings report <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43867480" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and disappointing 2025 guidance.</a></li>



<li>Nu Holdings Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NU#NYSE">NU</a>) stock decreased 21.54% following the company's<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43869101" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> fourth-quarter financial results</a>.</li>



<li>Aurora Innovation, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AUR#NASDAQ">AUR</a>) lost 21.18% as the software company's stocks fell amid overall market weakness on U.S. consumer and economic concerns.</li>



<li>Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) stock lost 21.04% last week. The stock reversed its gains following an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43883117" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">agreement in principle with SEC staff</a> to drop the case against the company.</li>



<li>DaVita Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DVA#NYSE">DVA</a>) shares dipped 19.58%. Warren Buffett's investment firm, Berkshire Hathaway (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>), has offloaded a 2% stake in the company, with the transaction <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43874883" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">valued at around $116 million</a>.</li>



<li>Robinhood Markets, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HOOD#NASDAQ">HOOD</a>) stock lost 19.12% as broader financial sector stocks fell amid overall market weakness on U.S. consumer and economic concerns.</li>



<li>Reddit (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDDT#NYSE">RDDT</a>) shares declined 18.81%. Piper Sandler analyst Thomas Champion maintained an Overweight rating and raised the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/rddt/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast from $210 to $220</a>.</li>
</ol>



Read Next:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/02/43902979/alibaba-super-micro-computer-and-xpeng-are-among-top-10-large-cap-gainers-last-week-feb-17-feb-21-are-the-others-in-your-portfolio" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alibaba, Super Micro Computer And XPeng Are Among Top 10 Large Cap Gainers Last Week (Feb 17-Feb 21): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?</a></li>
</ul>



Photo via Shutterstock

Large Cap

Topics

AKAM

AXON

COIN

EPAM

HOOD

RDDT

TWLO

Twilio, Coinbase And Reddit Are Among Top 10 Large Cap Losers Last Week (Feb 17-Feb 21): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

South&nbsp;Korea's&nbsp;Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) said it has halted&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43763629/south-korea-joins-italy-in-halting-downloads-of-chinas-deepseek-amid-global-scrutiny-over-privacy-issues" rel="noreferrer noopener">new downloads of&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43763629/south-korea-joins-italy-in-halting-downloads-of-chinas-deepseek-amid-global-scrutiny-over-privacy-issues" rel="noreferrer noopener">DeepSeek</a>.



A Russian court has&nbsp;imposed a fine on&nbsp;Alphabet Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>)&nbsp;Google&nbsp;for hosting a&nbsp;YouTube&nbsp;video that&nbsp;provides instructions to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/02/43772605/moscow-slaps-google-with-fine-for-youtube-video-showing-russian-troops-how-to-surrender" rel="noreferrer noopener">Russian soldiers on how to surrender</a>.



Mexico reiterates its&nbsp;warning to take legal action&nbsp;against&nbsp;Google&nbsp;over <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43771526/after-google-stands-firm-on-gulf-of-america-label-mexico-says-its-waiting-for-a-new-response-or-will-proceed-to-court">the naming of the</a>&nbsp;&#8220;Gulf of Mexico&#8221;&nbsp;on its&nbsp;Maps service.



Earnings Results



Bumble&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BMBL#NASDAQ">BMBL</a>) reported fourth-quarter revenue of&nbsp;$261.6 million&nbsp;which beat the analyst consensus estimate of&nbsp;$260.47 million&nbsp;and&nbsp;is a&nbsp;decrease from revenue of&nbsp;$273.64 million&nbsp;from&nbsp;the same period last year.&nbsp;Total Paying Users fell&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/02/43797993/bumble-shares-drop-after-q4-report-heres-why" rel="noreferrer noopener">57,000&nbsp;from the previous quarter</a>.



Smartphones



Apple Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is reportedly considering adding advertising to&nbsp;Maps, mirroring&nbsp;Alphabet&nbsp;Inc.&#8217;s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43761610/top-analyst-says-apple-maps-may-introduce-ads-similar-to-its-google-counterpart-as-the-tech-giant-explores-new-revenue-stream" rel="noreferrer noopener">Google Maps&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43761610/top-analyst-says-apple-maps-may-introduce-ads-similar-to-its-google-counterpart-as-the-tech-giant-explores-new-revenue-stream" rel="noreferrer noopener">model</a>.



Apple&nbsp;reportedly plans to introduce its first in-house 5G modem, manufactured by&nbsp;Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSM#NYSE">TSM</a>),&nbsp;in the upcoming&nbsp;iPhone SE 4&nbsp;— but early reports suggest it may not match the performance of&nbsp;Qualcomm&nbsp;Inc.&#8217;s&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43774315/apples-iphone-se-4-to-feature-tsmc-made-in-house-5g-modembut-it-may-lag-behind-qualcomms-snapdragon-x75" rel="noreferrer noopener">(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QCOM#NASDAQ">QCOM</a>)&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43774315/apples-iphone-se-4-to-feature-tsmc-made-in-house-5g-modembut-it-may-lag-behind-qualcomms-snapdragon-x75" rel="noreferrer noopener">Snapdragon X75</a>.



Jon Prosser&nbsp;– a well-known&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;product leak source – shared leaked renders of the&nbsp;iPhone 17 Air&nbsp;and&nbsp;iPhone 17 Pro, each&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43802471/apples-leaked-renders-show-iphone-17-air-and-pro-getting-unique-camera-islands-but-base-models-looks-may-disappoint-some" rel="noreferrer noopener">featuring unique camera island designs</a>.



Apple&nbsp;is reportedly testing a wireless reverse charging feature&nbsp;for its upcoming&nbsp;iPhone 17 Pro&nbsp;models,&nbsp;allowing&nbsp;the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43838655/iphone-17-pro-may-finally-get-wireless-reverse-charging-apple-reportedly-testing-power-sharing-with-airpods-apple-watch-and-more" rel="noreferrer noopener">smartphone to power other devices</a>.



Apple&nbsp;announced the iPhone 16E, an affordable iPhone offering that replaces<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43820197/apple-unveils-iphone-16e-with-a18-chip-ai-features-599-price-tag" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;the third-generation iPhone SE</a>.



In response to the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration,&nbsp;Apple&nbsp;might have to raise iPhone prices by 9%, said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/02/43839627/apple-may-hike-iphone-prices-by-9-due-to-trumps-tariffs-says-bank-of-america" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">analysts at the&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/02/43839627/apple-may-hike-iphone-prices-by-9-due-to-trumps-tariffs-says-bank-of-america" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bank of America</a>.



Technology



Elon&nbsp;Musk&#8217;s&nbsp;X, formerly&nbsp;Twitter, is blocking links to&nbsp;Signal.me, a URL shortener used by the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43772415/elon-musks-x-blocks-links-to-signal-app-as-federal-workers-turn-to-encrypted-messaging-amid-doge-fallout-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">private messaging app&nbsp;</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43772415/elon-musks-x-blocks-links-to-signal-app-as-federal-workers-turn-to-encrypted-messaging-amid-doge-fallout-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">Signal</a>.



Read:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43771979/elon-musk-will-unleash-grok-3-tonight-tesla-integration-live-voice-mode-and-more-heres-what-to-expect" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Will Unleash Grok 3 Tonight: Tesla Integration, Live-Voice Mode, And More —&nbsp;Here&#8217;s&nbsp;What To Expect</a>



Humane Inc.&nbsp;has&nbsp;decided to discontinue&nbsp;its AI Pin and sell its assets to&nbsp;HP Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HPQ#NYSE">HPQ</a>) for $116 million. The AI Pin will cease to connect to&nbsp;Humane's&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43803887/humanes-ai-pin-dubbed-as-potential-iphone-killer-dies-this-month-as-company-sells-to-hp-for-116-million-amid-poor-sales-and-scathing-reviews" rel="noreferrer noopener">servers after 3 PM ET&nbsp;on Feb. 28</a>.



Amazon.com, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) is removing a crucial&nbsp;Kindle&nbsp;feature that allows users to download and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/02/43805683/amazon-is-killing-a-key-kindle-feature-that-let-you-back-up-your-ebooks-heres-what-will-change-for-you" rel="noreferrer noopener">back up their purchased ebooks</a>.



Google&nbsp;has decided to remove its AI assistant,&nbsp;Gemini, from the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43840109/google-takes-away-gemini-from-main-ios-app-users-forced-to-download-standalone-ai-chatbot" rel="noreferrer noopener">main app on&nbsp;iOS devices</a>.



NVIDIA&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) has&nbsp;introduced&nbsp;Evo 2, an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) system&nbsp;aimed at<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/02/43841450/nvidias-new-ai-system-aims-to-transform-genetic-research-with-unmatched-speed-and-precision" rel="noreferrer noopener">transforming the field of&nbsp;biological research</a>.



Artificial Intelligence (AI)



Microsoft Corporation&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) CEO&nbsp;Satya Nadella&nbsp;has cautioned against the hype surrounding artificial intelligence (AI), comparing the current&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43838071/microsoft-ceo-satya-nadella-warns-of-dot-com-like-ai-bubble-pushes-for-measuring-ai-impact-with-gdp-growth-self-claiming-agi-milestone-is-just-nonsensical-benchmark-hacking" rel="noreferrer noopener">frenzy to the&nbsp;dot-com bubble</a>.



Ilya Sutskever, the co-founder and former chief scientist of&nbsp;OpenAI, is reportedly raising over $1 billion for his AI venture,&nbsp;Safe Superintelligence&nbsp;(SSI),&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43772135/ex-openai-chief-scientist-ilya-sutskevers-ai-startup-valued-at-30-billion-in-latest-funding-round-report" rel="noreferrer noopener">pushing its valuation beyond $30 billion</a>.



Mira Murati, the former CTO of OpenAI, has launched her own AI startup and has already recruited top researchers from ChatGPT-maker, Meta Platforms, Inc., <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43803027/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-and-sam-altmans-chatgpt-parent-bleed-talent-to-ex-open-ai-cto-mira-muratis-new-ai-venture" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">and </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43803027/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-and-sam-altmans-chatgpt-parent-bleed-talent-to-ex-open-ai-cto-mira-muratis-new-ai-venture" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mistral AI</a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43803027/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-and-sam-altmans-chatgpt-parent-bleed-talent-to-ex-open-ai-cto-mira-muratis-new-ai-venture" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">, a Paris-based startup</a>.



Image: Shutterstock

AMZN

BMBL

GOOG

MSFT

QCOM

Consumer Tech News (Feb 17-Feb 21): Mexico Warns Alphabet Over Naming of the "Gulf of Mexico" On Maps, Apple Launches iPhone 16E & More

These ten large-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?



<ol>
<li>Unity Software Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/U#NYSE">U</a>) shares escalated 36.64% after the company reported better-than-expected <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43851464" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth-quarter financial results</a>. Multiple firms raised their respective<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/U/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> price forecasts on the stock</a>.</li>



<li>Super Micro Computer Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) shares surged 32.62% on what appears to be continued momentum from the prior week. Investors await an update from the company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43812953" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">regarding its delayed filings</a>.</li>



<li>Alibaba Group Holding (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) stock increased 20.25% after the company <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43846533" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reported fiscal third-quarter results</a>. Several analysts raised <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/baba/analyst-ratings" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">their price forecasts on the stock</a>.</li>



<li>FTAI Aviation Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTAI#NASDAQ">FTAI</a>) shares jumped 19.82% following a major announcement that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43866554" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">addressed recent short-seller reports</a>.</li>



<li>STMicroelectronics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STM#NYSE">STM</a>) stock surged 15.39%. The company is preparing to launch its next-generation technologies aimed at improving optical connections within <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43852969" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data centers and AI clusters</a>.</li>



<li>XPeng Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPEV#NYSE">XPEV</a>) shares rose 15.36%, probably on Alibaba&#8217;s upbeat quarterly results, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43884588" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">President Xi&#8217;s support and DeepSeek AI boost</a>.</li>



<li>Analog Devices Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADI#NASDAQ">ADI</a>) stock upped 14.13% after the company reported upbeat fiscal first-quarter results and analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43855595" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">revised the price forecast</a>.</li>



<li>BeiGene, Ltd. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONC#NASDAQ">ONC</a>) stock rose 13.25%.</li>



<li>Tencent Music Entertainment Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TME#NYSE">TME</a>) stock upped 12.70% last week amid optimism from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43884588" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">President Xi&#8217;s support and DeepSeek AI boost</a>.</li>



<li>Microchip Technology Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCHP#NASDAQ">MCHP</a>) stock grew 12.55% after the company announced the introduction of its Mplab AI coding assistant, which leverages the power of AI to assist software developers and engineers <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/43843881" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in writing and debugging code</a>.</li>
</ol>



Photo via Shutterstock

FTAI

MCHP

SMCI

XPEV

Alibaba, Super Micro Computer And XPeng Are Among Top 10 Large Cap Gainers Last Week (Feb 17-Feb 21): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

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



This week, Wall Street retreated from record highs, influenced by Walmart's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>) cautious profit outlook and the Federal Reserve's emphasis on persistent inflation risks. Walmart's stock declined by 6.5% after its profit forecast fell short of analysts&#8217; expectations, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/econ-s/25/02/43895372/walmarts-warning-fed-highlights-inflation-risks-chinese-stocks-surge-this-week-in-markets">raising concerns about consumer spending</a> amid ongoing inflation and trade uncertainties.



The Federal Reserve, in its latest meeting minutes, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43829352/fomc-minutes">highlighted the need for more evidence of cooling inflation</a> before considering rate cuts. Officials also pointed to potential inflationary pressures from possible shifts in trade and immigration policies, as well as supply chain disruptions due to geopolitical tensions.



In contrast, Chinese technology stocks experienced a surge, with Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) rising 8.1% following strong earnings and optimistic guidance. This rally was bolstered by speculation of potential monetary policy easing by China&#8217;s central bank and anticipated fiscal stimulus measures from policymakers.



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



The Bulls



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/02/43812953/super-micro-computer-stock-continues-to-climb-whats-going-on">"Super Micro Computer Stock Continues To Climb: What's Going On?"</a>, by Adam Eckert, reports that Super Micro Computer Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) shares surged 16.5% after the company announced strong preliminary first-quarter results and reassured investors by confirming it will file delayed financial reports by the Feb. 25 deadline, addressing governance concerns.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/02/43787535/archer-aviation-stock-is-rising-tuesday-whats-going-on">"Archer Aviation Stock Is Rising Tuesday: What's Going On?"</a>, by Adam Eckert, reports that Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ACHR#NYSE">ACHR</a>) shares climbed 8.16% after the company secured FAA certification to launch its pilot training academy, a key milestone in its goal to begin electric air taxi operations in 2025, with only one more regulatory approval remaining.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43819990/jetai-targets-ai-infrastructure-growth-with-new-data-center-in-nevada-stock-skyrockets">"Jet.AI Targets AI Infrastructure Growth With New Data Center In Nevada, Stock Skyrockets"</a>, by Shivani Kumaresan, reports that Jet.AI Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JTAI#NASDAQ">JTAI</a>) shares soared 69% after the company unveiled plans for a 50-megawatt AI data center in Nevada, aiming for a full gigawatt capacity, as it seeks to capitalize on the surging demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure.



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



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43825695/xrp-rallies-5-on-etf-news-what-is-going-on">XRP Rallies 5% On ETF News: What Is Going On?</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/25/02/43855319/apple-stock-set-for-streaming-lift-severance-breaks-record-after-x-ads-tim-cook-promo">Apple Stock Set For Streaming Lift? ‘Severance' Breaks Record After X Ads, Tim Cook Promo</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/02/43816112/hedge-fund-shake-up-tiger-appaloosa-soros-outperform-buffett-icahn-ackman">Hedge Fund Shake-Up: Tiger, Appaloosa, Soros Outperform Buffett, Icahn, Ackman</a>



The Bears



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/02/43857040/palantir-stock-tanks-10-as-ceo-sell-plan-defense-budget-cuts-spark-sell-off">"Palantir Stock Tanks 10% As CEO Sell Plan, Defense Budget Cuts Spark Sell-Off"</a>, by Surbhi Jain, reports that Palantir Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NYSE">PLTR</a>) shares plunged 10% after CEO Alex Karp announced plans to sell nearly 10 million shares, raising investor concerns, while potential U.S. defense budget cuts threaten the company's lucrative government contracts, intensifying the sell-off.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43799173/occidental-petroleum-q4">"Occidental Petroleum Shares Slide After Mixed Q4 Results: EPS Beat, Revenues Miss"</a>, by Erica Kollmann, reports that Occidental Petroleum Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OXY#NYSE">OXY</a>) posted fourth-quarter earnings of 80 cents per share, surpassing analyst expectations of 70 cents, while revenue fell to $6.83 billion, missing the projected $7.05 billion.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43868719/dropbox-stock-falls-after-q4-report-arr-slips-paying-users-decrease">"Dropbox Stock Falls After Q4 Report: ARR Slips, Paying Users Decrease"</a>, by Erica Kollmann, reports that Dropbox Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DBX#NASDAQ">DBX</a>) shares fell 8.6% after the company announced a slight decrease in annual recurring revenue and a reduction of 15,000 paying users in the fourth quarter, despite exceeding earnings and revenue expectations.



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



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/02/43884153/us-services-drop-sharply-darkening-picture-of-high-prices-uncertainty-economist-says">US Services Drop Sharply: ‘Darkening Picture' Of High Prices, Uncertainty, Economist Says</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/02/43795095/viking-bails-on-apple-tesla-and-trims-nvidia-is-this-a-big-tech-rethink">Viking Bails On Apple, Tesla And Trims Nvidia: Is This A Big Tech Rethink?</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/02/43869433/walmart-expects-slower-growth-in-an-uncertain-time-cfo-says-on-earnings-call">Walmart Expects Slower Growth In ‘An Uncertain Time,' CFO Says On Earnings Call</a>



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



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Benzinga Bulls And Bears: SMCI, Jet.AI, Palantir, OXY And Wall Street Retreats From Record Highs

$1.4 Billion Ethereum Stolen In Largest Crypto Hack In History



Cryptocurrency exchange Bybit suffered a major breach on Friday which resulted in the theft of $1.4 billion Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>). The incident is considered the largest cryptocurrency hack in history, surpassing the 2021 Poly Network<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/02/43886224/bybit-founder-confirms-1-4-billion-ethereum-hack-blames-masked-transaction"> hack of $611 million.&nbsp;</a>



The attack, which targeted Bybit&#8217;s Ethereum cold wallet, resulted in the loss of 401,347 ETH ($1.12 billion), 90,376 stETH ($253 million), 15,000 cmETH ($44 million), and 8,000 mETH ($23 million), <a href="https://x.com/OnchainLens/status/1892964703263244377">according</a> to Onchain Lens.



Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/02/43884153/us-services-drop-sharply-darkening-picture-of-high-prices-uncertainty-economist-says">US Services Drop Sharply: &#8216;Darkening Picture&#8217; Of High Prices, Uncertainty, Economist Says</a>



Following the discovery of the theft, Bybit launched a recovery bounty program with a reward of up to 10% of the recovered funds to ethical cyber and network security experts who retrieve any of the stolen assets.



The potential bounty of up to $140 million is one of the largest crypto recovery efforts in history.



&#8220;Within 24 hours of the event, we were overwhelmed with support from some of the best people and organizations in the industry, and we do not take it for granted. We have shared in a dark moment of crypto history, and we&#8217;ve proven we are better than the malicious actors,&#8221; said Ben Zhou, co-founder and CEO of Bybit.



SEC Creates Cyber And Emerging Technologies Unit&nbsp;



The Securities and Exchange Commission on Thursday announced the creation of the Cyber and Emerging Technologies Unit (CETU) to focus on combatting cyber-related misconduct and to protect retail investors in the emerging technologies space.&nbsp;



The CETU, led by Laura D'Allaird, replaces the Crypto Assets and Cyber Unit and employs approximately 30 fraud specialists and attorneys.&nbsp;



"Under Laura's leadership, this new unit will complement the work of the Crypto Task Force led by Commissioner Hester Peirce. Importantly, the new unit will also allow the SEC to deploy enforcement resources judiciously," said Acting Chairman Mark T. Uyeda.&nbsp;



"The unit will not only protect investors but will also facilitate capital formation and market efficiency by clearing the way for innovation to grow. It will root out those seeking to misuse innovation to harm investors and diminish confidence in new technologies," Uyeda said.&nbsp;



The CETU listed the following as high-priority areas of focus:&nbsp;



<ul>
<li>Fraud committed with the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning</li>



<li>Fraud on social media, the dark web, or false websites </li>



<li>Takeovers of retail brokerage accounts</li>



<li>Fraud involving blockchain technology and crypto assets</li>



<li>Hacking to obtain material nonpublic information</li>
</ul>



Read Next:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43836832/trump-administration-orders-sweeping-pentagon-cuts-defense-sector-stocks-on-watch">&nbsp;</a>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43836832/trump-administration-orders-sweeping-pentagon-cuts-defense-sector-stocks-on-watch">Trump Administration Orders Sweeping Pentagon Cuts: Palantir, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics Among Stocks On Watch</a></li>
</ul>



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Financial Crime Weekly: $1.4 Billion Ethereum Stolen In Largest Crypto Hack Ever, SEC Creates Cyber And Emerging Technologies Unit

Michael Wolff&#8216;s new book promises to reveal previously undisclosed secrets about President Donald Trump, offering a fresh perspective on his life and political career.



What Happened: Wolff&#8217;s latest book uncovers 10 previously unknown facts about Trump. The book, All or Nothing: How Trump Recaptured America, provides an in-depth look into Trump&#8217;s life, revealing aspects that were previously unknown to the public.



According to a report <a href="https://www.thedailybeast.com/the-10-trump-secrets-you-never-knew-from-michael-wolff-book/">by</a> The Daily Beast, Wolff details Trump's unconventional decision-making, campaign struggles, and even speculation about his health.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trump Wanted a Fox News Woman as VP — But Elon Musk Had Other Ideas</h3>



Wolff claims that Trump initially favored a female running mate in 2024, with Fox Business host Maria Bartiromo and Fox News' Harris Faulkner among his top choices. However, Elon Musk reportedly told Trump that his backing was conditional on selecting then-Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) as his running mate.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Sweet Tooth and Alleged Ozempic Use</h3>



The book describes Trump indulging in candy as his "poison" of choice, filling up on Starbursts, Hershey's Miniatures, Laffy Taffy, and Tootsie Rolls. Meanwhile, insiders at Mar-a-Lago speculated he was using Ozempic or a similar weight-loss drug.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Melania's Whereabouts Remained a Mystery</h3>



Even Trump's campaign staff reportedly had no idea where Melania Trump was residing during the campaign. Wolff suggests their marriage was either uniquely successful or on the verge of collapse.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Mental State After Assassination Attempt</h3>



Following a failed assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, Wolff claims Trump appeared disoriented and struggled to complete sentences. He reportedly forgot names, took wrong turns, and exhibited fits of rage that seemed beyond his usual temperament.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Fear of Dying on Epstein's Plane</h3>



While flying to Colorado on a backup aircraft after &#8220;Trump Force One&#8221; experienced issues, turbulence led Trump to panic, allegedly exclaiming, "I'm going to die on Jeffrey Epstein's plane!"



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43900927/mary-trump-slams-uncle-trump-and-his-corrupt-fascist-regime-are-aligned-with-the-agenda-of-vladimir-putin-and-moscow">Mary Trump Slams Uncle: &#8216;Trump and His Corrupt Fascist Regime Are Aligned With the Agenda of Vladimir Putin and Moscow&#8217;</a>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Golf Course Tweets and Protest Incitement</h3>



Wolff writes that aide Natalie Harp followed Trump around his Bedminster golf course with a portable printer to keep his social media activity flowing. He also alleges that Trump falsely claimed he would be arrested in the Stormy Daniels case to provoke protests.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Reaction to Elon Musk's Rally Behavior</h3>



During a campaign stop in Butler, Pennsylvania, Musk's erratic movements reportedly left Trump baffled. "What the f&#8212; is wrong with this guy? And why doesn't his shirt fit?" Trump allegedly said.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Conspiracy Theories on Biden's Debate Performance</h3>



Wolff claims Trump believed Democrats set up President Joe Biden&#8216;s disastrous performance in their one 2024 debate, believing it to have been a scheme to push Biden out of the race.



Why It Matters: This book could potentially shed new light on Trump&#8217;s time in office and his personal life, which have been the subject of intense scrutiny and speculation. 



The undisclosed secrets could provide a fresh perspective on Trump&#8217;s presidency and his business dealings, potentially influencing public opinion and sparking further debates about his legacy.



Given Wolff&#8217;s reputation as a seasoned author, the book is expected to be a comprehensive and insightful account of Trump&#8217;s life and career. 



The revelations could also have implications for future political discourse and Trump&#8217;s potential future endeavors in politics and business.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43769836/trump-gains-trust-of-majority-on-americans-on-immigration-and-economy">Trump Gains Trust Of Majority Of Americans On Immigration, Economy</a>



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New Michael Wolff Book Exposes Previously Undisclosed Trump Secrets

Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) chief Elon Musk is demanding that federal employees justify their <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43581767/elon-musks-former-employees-warn-federal-workers-about-long-hours-firings-and-much-more">positions to him through email</a> or lose their jobs.



What Happened: Musk declared that federal employees who do not comply with this directive will be considered to have resigned. He says the move aligns with President Donald Trump&#8216;s instructions to eradicate federal waste and fraud.



Musk announced his directive in a Saturday afternoon post on X, stating, &#8220;Consistent with President @realDonaldTrump's instructions, all federal employees will shortly receive an email requesting to understand what they got done last week. Failure to respond will be taken as a resignation.&#8221;



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Consistent with President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s instructions, all federal employees will shortly receive an email requesting to understand what they got done last week. Failure to respond will be taken as a resignation.&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1893386883444437415?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



In another post, Musk shared that a large number of responses have been received and and those people should be considered for promotion. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">A large number of good responses have been received already. These are the people who should be considered for promotion. <a href="https://t.co/Rc8sGBLemU">https://t.co/Rc8sGBLemU</a>&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1893530756602847340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 23, 2025</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



According to a report <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/22/politics/elon-musk-employees-emails/index.html">by</a> CNN, Musk&#8217;s message has stirred up controversy and apprehension among federal employees. Newly confirmed FBI Director Kash Patel advised bureau employees to hold off on responding to the email. He emphasized that the FBI would handle review processes according to its procedures and coordinate responses if further information is required.



"The FBI, through the Office of the Director, is in charge of all of our review processes, and will conduct reviews in accordance with FBI procedures. When and if further information is required, we will coordinate the responses. For now, please pause any responses," Patel said in an email to bureau employees. 



Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43770024/from-tech-to-politics-how-elon-musk-is-empowering-far-right-across-the-globe">From Tech to Politics: How Elon Musk Is Empowering Far Right Across the Globe</a>



Similarly, the National Security Agency employees were instructed to wait for further guidance from the Department of Defense before responding. Secret Service Director Sean Curran advised staff to comply with the email, noting the agency&#8217;s resources available for employees during uncertain times.



The email ultimatum has been heavily criticized by unions representing federal workers.&nbsp;Everett Kelley, the&nbsp;national president of the American&nbsp;Federation of Government Employees, criticized Musk&#8217;s ultimatum, stating it mirrors the Trump administration's disregard&nbsp;for federal employees and their crucial services to the American public.



Doreen Greenwald, President&nbsp;of the National Treasury Employees&nbsp;Union, labeled the email as "completely unAmerican."



Why It Matters: President Trump has appointed Musk to revamp&nbsp;the federal government with his&nbsp;Department of Government Efficiency. However, the legality of this latest move remains uncertain. 



This directive is the latest in a series of moves by Musk and DOGE to streamline the federal workforce and eliminate inefficiencies. 



The approach mirrors Musk&#8217;s previous actions at Tesla and X, where he implemented significant staffing cuts to improve efficiency. The impact of this directive on the federal workforce and its efficiency will be closely watched in the coming weeks.



Read Next



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43768756/privacy-concerns-emerge-as-elon-musks-doge-team-seeks-access-to-taxpayer-data">Privacy Concerns Emerge As Elon Musk&#8217;s DOGE Team Seeks Access to Taxpayer Data</a>

Elon Musk Demands Federal Workers Justify Their Jobs — FBI's Kash Patel Tells Employees Not To Respond

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