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Stellantis was created out of the merger of US-based Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, or FCA, and French-based Peugeot, or PSA, in January 2021, resulting in the fourth-largest automotive original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, by vehicle sales. In 2023 it sold 6.4 million vehicles, 44% and 30% in Europe and North America, respectively. North America is the most profitable region, contributing 53% of operating income. Its brands include Fiat, Jeep, Chrysler, Ram, Peugeot, Citroen, Opel, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati.

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Las acciones de Stellantis suben a pesar de la llamada a revisión global de 1,46 millones de vehículos, incluyendo Ram y Jeep.

Stellantis (STLA) anuncia llamada a revisión de 1,46M de vehículos; Acciones suben

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Mondelez International (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDLZ#NASDAQ">MDLZ</a>) has been leveraging AI to speed up recipe development and improve flavor profiles.
What Happened: The AI tool, created in collaboration with software consulting firm Fourkind, now part of Thoughtworks, has been operational since 2019, <a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/oreo-owner-mondelez-taps-ai-to-tweak-its-classic-snacks-6fa4c4cd?mod=tech_lead_pos4">reported</a> the Wall Street Journal.
It aids Mondelez&#8217;s R&amp;D team by generating recipes based on desired traits like flavor, aroma, and appearance. The tool also evaluates ingredient costs, environmental impact, and nutritional value.
The AI leverages this data to propose new formulations—a process that once relied on trial and error. Mondelez reports that AI-driven development although subjected to human taste-testing, has accelerated product testing and production trials by four to five times.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42499566/google-willow-nvidias-china-troubles-trump-on-ai-and-more-this-week-in-artificial-intelligence?itm_source=parsely-api">Google Willow, Nvidia&#8217;s China Troubles, Trump On AI, And More: This Week In Artificial Intelligence</a>
"The point is we get there faster," stated Kevin Wallenstein, section manager at Mondelez. "The consumer wants the product to taste like X. We're not stopping iterating until it tastes like X … we're doing things more efficiently."&nbsp;
The tool has been used in over 70 projects, resulting in new products such as the Gluten-Free Golden Oreo and revamped classic recipes.
In addition to Oreos and Chips Ahoy, Mondelez produces popular snacks like Ritz crackers, Cadbury chocolates, Clif bars, Triscuits, Tate's cookies, and Toblerone. 
According to the report, Mondelez carefully limits how far its AI can push innovation. Earlier, less-refined versions of the tool, lacking sufficient data, made odd suggestions.
"Because [baking soda is] a very low-cost ingredient, it would try to just make cookies that were very high in baking soda, which doesn't taste good at all," said Wallenstein. This is why a brand steward plays an important role is to uphold each snack&#8217;s core identity.
Modelez did not immediately respond to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: The integration of AI in food production is not without its challenges. For instance, Instacart&#8217;s AI recipes in January this year went viral for their unusual and often unappetizing results.
Moreover, Mondelez is not just using AI for product development. The company is also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42307366/googles-veo-video-generator-arrives-on-cloud-how-quora-and-mondelez-are-using-ai-for-creative-content">leveraging AI for marketing</a> via Google&#8217;s Veo video generator.
Earlier this month, the Oreo-maker <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/12/42483141/hershey-merger-talks-fail">also explored a merger</a> with The Hershey Co., but the latter remains a tough acquisition target.
Mondelez's organic sales increased by 5.4% in the latest quarter, accompanied by an 11.2% rise in adjusted gross profit dollars.
Price Action: According to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro</a>, Mondelez shares declined by 0.24% to $61.34 on Tuesday, with an additional 0.42% drop in after-hours trading. Year-to-date, Mondelez has fallen by 16.93%.
Photo Courtesy: Achmad Agus Ilyas via Shutterstock
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Tech

MDLZ

Oreo Maker Uses AI To Come Up With Flavor Perfection: Mondelez Says, 'Not Stopping Iterating Until It Tastes Like X'

CNBC&#8217;s Jim Cramer suggested on Tuesday that NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) may have reached a key turning point after the stock touched $127, potentially signaling a bottom for the semiconductor giant&#8217;s recent pullback.
What Happened: &#8220;We may have hit a possible crescendo for Nvidia&#8217;s stock when it hit the $127 mark. Could be a moment where everyone who wanted to sell did so,&#8221; Cramer wrote on X, formerly Twitter. This marks a shift from his Monday warning when he predicted a &#8220;vicious&#8221; and &#8220;fast&#8221; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42522048/jim-cramer-warns-nvidias-vicious-and-fast-reversal-is-coming-amid-174-surge-this-year-and-china-antitrust-probe">reversal for the chipmaker</a>.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">We may have hit a possible crescendo for Nvidia&#39;s stock when it hit the $127 mark. Could be a moment where everyone who wanted to sell did so. Never know but it did seem do or die
&mdash; Jim Cramer (@jimcramer) <a href="https://twitter.com/jimcramer/status/1869076573267370049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Nvidia shares closed Tuesday at $130.39, down 1.22%, before gaining 0.53% in after-hours trading. Despite recent volatility, the stock has maintained an impressive 170.69% gain year-to-date, largely fueled by artificial intelligence demand.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/12/42545185/nissan-soar-over-20-on-merger-talks-with-honda-eyeing-8-million-annual-vehicle-sales">Nissan Stock Soar Over 20% On Merger Talks With Honda, Mitsubishi Spikes</a>
Why It Matters: The company&#8217;s fundamental strength remains evident in its recent financial performance, with third-quarter revenue surging 94% year-over-year to $35.1 billion. Nvidia&#8217;s market capitalization stands at $3.21 trillion, with a price-to-earnings ratio of 53.
Wall Street maintains an optimistic outlook, with 40 analysts setting an average price target of $170.56. Rosenblatt Securities leads with the most bullish target of $220, while New Street Research sets a more conservative target of $120, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NVDA/analyst-ratings">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/17211645/Screenshot-2024-12-18-at-7.46.05%E2%80%AFAM-1024x368.png" alt="" class="wp-image-696862" style="width:764px;height:auto" /></figure>
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Image Via Shutterstock 
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Markets

NVDA

Jim Cramer Signals Potential Bottom For Nvidia At $127 After Predicting 'Vicious' Reversal Earlier

Wall Street experienced a downturn on Tuesday as major indices fell following a strong retail sales report for November. The data raised concerns about the Federal Reserve&#8217;s potential delay in cutting interest rates next year. The S&amp;P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped by 0.4% and 0.6% respectively, while the Nasdaq 100 declined by 0.3%, with semiconductor stocks leading the losses amid geopolitical tensions.
These are the top stocks that gained the attention of retail traders and investors through the day:
Nukkleus Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NUKK#NASDAQ">NUKK</a>)
Nukkleus Inc. saw a significant surge of 754.68%, closing at $11.88. The stock reached an intraday high of $17.66 and a low of $1.84, with a 52-week range of $34.16 to $0.40. This dramatic rise followed the company&#8217;s announcement of acquiring a 51% controlling stake in Star 26 Capital Inc., which holds a substantial share in RIMON, an Israeli supplier for the Iron Dome missile defense system. This acquisition <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42535878/why-nukkleus-stock-is-gaining-tuesday">boosts</a> Nukkleus&#8217;s defense ambitions.
Micron Technology Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MU#NASDAQ">MU</a>)
Micron Technology Inc. experienced a modest increase of 0.31%, closing at $108.60. The stock fluctuated between a high of $110.49 and a low of $107.68, with a 52-week range of $157.54 to $78.63. The company is set to release its first-quarter financial results, with analysts <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42541544/micron-q1-earnings-preview-analyst-estimates-why-company-is-well-positioned-heading-into-2025">expecting revenue</a> to reach $8.72 billion, a significant increase from the previous year. Micron has consistently outperformed revenue estimates in recent quarters.
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TEVA#NYSE">TEVA</a>)
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. saw its stock rise by 26.47%, closing at $20.88. The stock hit an intraday high of $21.05 and a low of $19.03, with a 52-week high of $21.05 and a low of $10. The increase followed the successful completion of a Phase 2b study for a monoclonal antibody targeting inflammatory bowel disease, achieving&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42531132/why-are-teva-and-sanofi-stocks-trading-higher-on-tuesday">positive</a>&nbsp;results in clinical remission rates.
Quantum Computing Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QUBT#NASDAQ">QUBT</a>)
Quantum Computing Inc. shares jumped by 51.53%, closing at $16.79. The stock&#8217;s intraday range was $18.06 to $12.60, with a 52-week high of $18.06 and a low of $0.35. The rise came after the company announced a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42533581/quantum-computing-stock-is-rising-tuesday-heres-why">prime contract</a> with NASA for imaging and data processing support, utilizing its Dirac-3 machine to enhance data quality and accuracy.
Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>)
Tesla Inc. saw a 3.64% increase, closing at $479.86. The stock reached an intraday high of $483.99 and a low of $457.51, with a 52-week range of $483.99 to $138.8. Analyst Dan Ives predicts that Tesla will be a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/12/42522531/tesla-will-be-the-biggest-winner-in-the-trump-era-says-dan-ives-predicts-nasdaq-at-25000-in-18-months-get-the-popcorn-out">major beneficiary</a> in the tech sector expansion anticipated under President-elect Donald Trump&#8217;s administration, driven by artificial intelligence and deregulation.
Image Via Shutterstock.com
Prepare for the day&#8217;s trading&nbsp;<a href="https://editorial.benzinga.com/wp-admin/Premarket%20Movers%20&amp;%20News">with top premarket movers and news</a>&nbsp;by Benzinga.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42485284/billionaire-warren-buffett-paid-120000-for-a-home-but-took-out-a-mortgage-to-do-it-investing-that-money-instead-made-him-2-billion?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Billionaire Warren Buffett Paid $120,000 For A Home But Took Out A Mortgage To Do It – Investing That Money Instead Made Him $2 Billion</a></li>
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

NUKK

QUBT

TEVA

TSLA

Nukkleus, Micron, Teva Pharmaceutical, Quantum Computing, Tesla: Why These 5 Stocks Are On Investors' Radars Today

Leading cryptocurrencies stayed muted on Tuesday ahead of the Federal Reserve's last policy decision of 2024.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>-0.18%</td>
<td>$105,942.00</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>-2.29%</td>
<td>$3,873.95</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>-1.68%</td>
<td>$0.3916</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin made a new all-time high of $108,000 in early trading hours before falling sharply to $105,000 shortly thereafter. Volatility persisted throughout the day, with the leading coin bouncing around and below $107,000.
Ethereum's decline was steeper, as it dropped below $4,000 to a low of $3,800.
The total cryptocurrency liquidations surpassed $316 million in the last 24 hours, with long liquidations accounting for an overwhelming share.
Bitcoin's Open Interest rose despite the price weakness, suggesting the opening of new short positions. Nearly 60% of Binance futures traders were betting against Bitcoin, according to the Long/Short Ratio.
Market sentiment remained in the "Extreme Greed" region, per the Cryptocurrency Fear &amp; Greed Index.
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pudgy Penguins (PENGU)</td>
<td>+487.34%</td>
<td>$0.02936</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitget Token (BGB)</td>
<td>+12.58%</td>
<td>$3.90</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Cronos (CRO)</td>
<td>+11.16%</td>
<td>$0.1941</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.78 trillion, following an increase of 2.43% over the last 24 hours.
Major stock indexes closed in the red on Tuesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell for the ninth consecutive day, dropping 267.58 points, or 0.61%, to close at 43,449.90. The S&amp;P 500 lost 0.39%, ending at 6,050.61, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite reversed from its record highs, falling 0.32% to 20,109.06.
Investors are now preparing for the final monetary policy decision on Wednesday. The Fed is widely expected to enact a 0.25% cut, with traders pricing in a 97% possibility of such a scenario, as per the <a href="https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/interest-rates/cme-fedwatch-tool.html">CME FedWatch</a> tool.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Widely followed cryptocurrency analyst Rekt Capital said that this was only the start of Bitcoin's parabolic phase, drawing parallels with historical price action.
"Historically, this phase has lasted on average ~300 days Bitcoin is only on day 41 of its parabolic phase," the analyst stated.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> has only just begun its Parabolic Phase in the cycle Historically, this phase has lasted on average ~300 days Bitcoin is only on Day 41 of its Parabolic Phase<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crypto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crypto</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a>
&mdash; Rekt Capital (@rektcapital) <a href="https://twitter.com/rektcapital/status/1869042931518374304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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</figure>
Cryptocurrency influencer Quinten Francois said that the Bitcoin cycle was being pushed by institutional investors and not retail.
"BTC is knocking at its ATH while there is no hype or euphoria. Why? Retail is in alts,&#8221; Francois added.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> is knocking at its ATH while there is no hype or euphoria Why? Retail is in alts This <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> cycle isn't pushed by retail It's the institutional cycle
&mdash; Quinten &#x7C; 048.eth (@QuintenFrancois) <a href="https://twitter.com/QuintenFrancois/status/1868920066097697080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Data fetched from Google Trends also <a href="https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?geo=US&amp;q=bitcoin&amp;hl=en">showed </a>that search interest for Bitcoin has dwindled sharply from its peak just after Donald Trump's win last month.
Photo by Avi Rozen on Shutterstock
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

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$ETH

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Stay Muted Before Fed's Interest Rate Decision: Analyst Says BTC In Parabolic Phase, Reveals Its Duration

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) voiced her support for the privatization of the United States Postal Service, amidst its financial woes on Tuesday.
What Happened: In a recent post on X, Greene expressed her long-held belief in the need for privatizing the USPS. She emphasized that her newly formed committee, along with the support of Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy&#8211;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/41927289/trump-appoints-elon-musk-and-vivek-ramaswamy-to-lead-doge-targeting-bureaucracy-and-65-trillion-federal-spending-we-will-not-go-gently">headed</a> Department of Government Efficiency, is gaining momentum in pushing for this change.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">We need to privatize <a href="https://twitter.com/USPS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USPS</a>—I've been saying it for years!<a href="https://twitter.com/DOGE?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DOGE</a> and my new committee have a lot of momentum heading into next year. The American people gave President Trump a mandate, but they gave all of us in Washington a mandate, too. Selling the Postal Service is a smart… <a href="https://t.co/WqEKXddlFH">pic.twitter.com/WqEKXddlFH</a>
&mdash; Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene&#x1f1fa;&#x1f1f8; (@RepMTG) <a href="https://twitter.com/RepMTG/status/1869110704998846596?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42500224/elon-musks-mother-opens-up-about-his-friendship-with-barron-trump-bonded-over-out-of-this-world-exploration?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk&#8217;s Mother Opens Up About His Friendship With Barron Trump: &#8216;Bonded Over Out-Of-This-World Exploration&#8217;</a>
She stated, &#8220;Selling the Postal Service is a smart decision that keeps our promise to the American people to cut waste, fraud, and abuse.&#8221; 
She also mentioned that the American people have given a mandate to President-elect Donald Trump and all of Washington, implying a collective responsibility to address the USPS&#8217;s financial struggles. 
Notably, Greene chairs the Delivering on Government Efficiency subcommittee in the next Congress. She has previously said that the goal of DOGE is to &#8220;bring accountability and GUT useless government agencies.&#8221;
Why It Matters: The USPS has been <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42496990/trump-eyes-privatization-of-postal-service-amid-9-5-billion-loss">grappling with financial difficulties</a>, reporting a massive $9.5 billion loss in the fiscal year ending September 30. The agency&#8217;s liabilities have soared to nearly $80 billion, primarily due to declining mail volumes and slower-than-expected growth in parcel shipping.
Trump is reportedly considering the privatization of the USPS as a potential solution to these financial challenges. The move towards privatization is seen as a means to overhaul the agency and address its mounting liabilities.
Privatizing the USPS can potentially reshape consumer shipping, favoring profitable routes while leaving rural areas underserved. FedEx Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FDX#NYSE">FDX</a>) and United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UPS#NYSE">UPS</a>), already dominate the parcel market and might increase their influence, potentially impacting millions relying on affordable mail services.
For privatization to occur, approval would be needed from the USPS Board of Governors, consisting of 11 members led by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, CNBC <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/trump-biden-signal-emerging-fight-future-postal-service-rcna184451">reported</a>.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden announced his intention to renominate former general counsel for the American Postal Workers Union, Anton Hajjar, to the Postal Service Board of Governors. This will require swift Democratic action to confirm him before Republicans gain Senate control in January. Hajjar, previously nominated by Biden and confirmed in 2021, served a term that ended in December 2023. 
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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

Marjorie Taylor Greene Pushes To Sell Off USPS Amid DOGE Momentum: 'We Need To Privatize...I've Been Saying It For Years'

Nissan Motor Co. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NSANY#OTC">NSANY</a>)&nbsp; shares surged 22.54% in Tokyo on Wednesday <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42541842/japanese-auto-giants-nissan-honda-eye-merger-says-nikkei">after the reports of merger talks</a> with Honda Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HMC#NYSE">HMC</a>). Honda&#8217;s stock is trading down 2%.
According to the report, the two automakers are exploring a merger under a holding company structure, with plans to include Mitsubishi Motors Corp. (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MMTOF#OTC">MMTOF</a>), where Nissan holds a 24% stake. A memorandum of understanding is expected soon. Mitsubishi Motor shares were seen trading over 13% higher in Tokyo at the time of writing.
If finalized, the combined Nissan-Honda-Mitsubishi group could achieve annual sales exceeding 8 million vehicles, making it one of the world's largest automakers. However, it would still trail Japan&#8217;s Toyota Motor Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TM#NYSE">TM</a>), with 11.2 million sales in 2023, and Germany's Volkswagen AG at 9.2 million.
Year-to-date, Nissan shares have fallen 28.3% trading at 412 Japanese Yen ($2.68), while Honda is trading at 1,270 Japanese Yen ($8.27), down 15.7%. Meanwhile, Mitsubishi Motor stock is up 1.49% this year trading at 463 Japanese Yen ($3.01).
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Image Via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Asia

MMTOF

NSANY

Nissan Stock Soar Over 20% On Merger Talks With Honda, Mitsubishi Spikes

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

MoonPay announced a strategic partnership with Element Wallet to enhance access to Core (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">CORE</a>) tokens within the Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) DeFi (BTCfi) ecosystem.
The integration will allow users to seamlessly purchase CORE tokens using multiple payment methods, including debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal and bank transfers, marking a significant step in improving user accessibility.
The partnership aligns with Core's mission to drive the adoption of BTCfi technology and expand the usability of its self-custodial staking platform.
Ivan Soto-Wright, co-founder and CEO of MoonPay, said integrating with Element Wallet will create new opportunities for users to engage with the Bitcoin ecosystem, reducing friction and enhancing the overall user experience.
Core, which launched in April 2024, emerged as a Proof-of-Stake layer for Bitcoin and the first blockchain to enable self-custodial Bitcoin staking.
Since its launch, over 6,700 Bitcoin have been staked on the platform, demonstrating its growing role in the BTCfi ecosystem.
Element Wallet, serving as Core's flagship wallet, will integrate CORE alongside additional tokens such as stCORE and wCORE, to simplify user engagement with Bitcoin staking and the broader ecosystem. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42526592/bitcoin-ethereum-etfs-see-688m-net-inflows-analysts-target-124000">Bitcoin, Ethereum ETFs See $688M Net Inflows, Analysts Target $124,000</a>
Rich Rines, an initial contributor to Core, emphasized the importance of the partnership, saying, "The addition of CORE to MoonPay, alongside its integration with Element Wallet, represents a pivotal step in our mission to drive further adoption and usability within the growing Core ecosystem and beyond."
Beyond Element Wallet, CORE tokens are now available directly on the MoonPay platform, enabling users broader access to the growing BTCfi network.
The partnership builds on Core's impressive milestones since its January 2023 mainnet launch, which includes over 31 million unique addresses, 300 million transactions and nearly $1 billion in total value locked (TVL).
Core has also powered innovations like the Valour Bitcoin Staking (BTC) SEK, the world's first yield-bearing Bitcoin ETP, aimed at institutional adoption.
Read Next: • <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42514820/ftx-reorganization-plan-set-for-january-3-distributions-to-commence-within-60-days">FTX Reorganization Plan Set For January 3, Distributions To Commence Within 60 Days</a>
Photo: Shutterstock

$CORE

MoonPay Partners With Element Wallet To Boost Core Token Access In BTCfi Ecosystem

If you've ever been told to "be grateful for what you have," <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/08/40166983/grant-cardone-says-earning-400-000-a-year-is-embarrassing-as-a-human-being-asks-how-do-you-make-">Grant Cardone</a> is here to flip that advice. He's blunt about it. In an article on his website, Grant Cardone shared a powerful message:&nbsp;
"Don't be grateful for the middle class – be in a hurry to get out of it!"
As Cardone sees it, the middle class is trapped – not just financially but mentally. They cling to outdated ideas about money that leave them living paycheck to paycheck, terrified of the next unexpected bill.
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</ul>
The Middle-Class Trap: A Personal Take
Grant grew up in the middle class, so he speaks from experience. He remembers watching his mom stretch every dollar, clip coupons and worry about how far the money would go. Sure, there was enough to get by, but "just enough" didn't cut it for him.
At 16, he told his mom, "One day I am going to be rich and take care of you and help others." Her response? The classic middle-class mantra: "Money won't make you happy. Be grateful for what we have."
But Grant wasn't buying it then and is not now. His counterargument? "I am grateful, I just don't want to be worried about every day of my life."
See Also: Many are using retirement income calculators to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a>
Why the Middle Class Is Struggling
According to the real estate guru, here's the cold, hard truth: the middle class is broke. Cardone points to a Bankrate survey that found 63% of Americans can't afford a $500 car repair. Let that sink in. In the wealthiest country in the world, most people don't even have a small financial cushion.
According to Cardone, this all comes back to the toxic financial advice middle-class families have followed for generations. Ideas like "money won't make you happy" and "save your pennies" keep people stuck.
"Everywhere you look – TV, radio, social media – you've got people dishing out advice they haven't mastered themselves," he says. The result? A middle-class population working hard but with less than $3,000 in savings, constantly living on the edge.
Grant's Turning Point: Breaking Free
At 25, Cardone was broke. Worse, he realized he was poorer at 25 than he'd been at 15. Why? He had adopted middle-class money habits from people who didn't have financial freedom.
"I finally had enough," he says. That's when he decided to stop taking advice from broke people and start learning from those who had built wealth.
Trending: This Jeff Bezos-backed startup will allow you to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/bezos-landlord-100-dollars">become a landlord in just 10 minutes, with minimum investments as low as $100 for properties like the Byer House from Stranger Things.</a>
Busting Middle-Class Money Myths
If you're ready to escape the middle-class mindset, Cardone lays out six toxic money beliefs you need to ditch ASAP:
"Money won't make you happy."
Let's face it, no one's smiling when they <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42488326/grant-cardone-offer-citizenship-to-1-million-immigrants-who-deposit-5-million-each-5-trillion-in-new-investment-dollars-for-america">can't pay their bills</a>. Cardone calls this "stupid and irrelevant." When someone says this, he argues, it's usually because they've given up on money entirely.
"A penny saved is a penny earned."
Nope. A penny saved is just a penny and will never grow into anything more. This old-school mentality keeps people broke.
"Save your money."
Saving won't make you rich, but investing will. Cardone's advice: Stop hoarding pennies and start making your money work for you.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
"Money doesn't grow on trees."
Actually, money is human-made and whenever there's a shortage, governments print more. It's not scarce – so stop thinking small.
"Get a good deal."
Middle-class families obsess over finding the cheapest price. But Grant points out that "good deals don't make you rich – big deals do." The most lucrative opportunities often come with a premium price tag.
"Don't put all your eggs in one basket."
Cardone says Wall Street sold this advice to the middle class to promote mutual funds and index funds. The wealthy go all-in on a few high-value investments. Even Warren Buffett says, "Wide diversification is only required when investors don't fully understand what they are doing."
Grant's message <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41234906/if-you-want-to-be-a-millionaire-stop-doing-the-9-5-grant-cardone-says-working-40-hours-a-week-on">isn't about being ungrateful – </a>it's about refusing to settle. The middle-class mindset might feel safe, but it's a trap that keeps you broke and stressed. The key? Start questioning the beliefs you've been taught and commit to breaking out of the cycle.
Read Next:
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<li>The number of ‘401(k)' Millionaires is up 43% from last year —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/401k-millionaires"> Here are three ways to join the club.</a></li>
<li>Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.</li>
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Personal Finance

Don't Be Grateful For The Middle Class. Be In A Hurry To Get Out Of It – Grant Cardone Exposes Middle-Class Money Trap Keeping People Broke

In a significant development, U.S. Congressional leaders have reached a consensus on a bipartisan deal to extend government funding, thereby averting the looming December 20 shutdown deadline.
The legislation, revealed on Tuesday, extends the funding deadline to March 14, 2025. This move allows the incoming Congress and president to decide on the government&#8217;s funding for the majority of the year. The package includes a one-year farm bill extension, approximately $100 billion in disaster relief, and around $30 billion in disaster and economic assistance for farmers among other authorizations, <a href="https://thehill.com/business/budget/5040567-government-funding-deal-shutdown-deadline/">reported</a> The Hill.
The agreement marks the end of weeks of negotiations over disaster aid and overall funding. This is the final funding agreement of a divided Congress before the new class takes over in January. The bill provides nearly $30 billion in funding for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, following recent concerns about the agency&#8217;s Disaster Relief Fund.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42497173/investment-guru-peter-lynch-if-you-cant-explain-to-an-11-year-old-in-2-minutes-or-less-why-you-own-the-stock-you-shouldnt-own-it?itm_source=parsely-api" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Investment Guru Peter Lynch: &#8216;If You Can&#8217;t Explain To An 11-Year-Old In 2 Minutes Or Less Why You Own The</a>
More than $2 billion in funding for the Small Business Administration was agreed upon after officials reported that its disaster loan program had exhausted its funds during the hurricane season. The bill also allocates $20 billion for disaster relief for farmers and $10 billion in economic support for farmers.
The legislation also extends the National Flood Insurance Program&#8217;s authorization and includes measures aimed at pandemic mitigation. The total emergency and disaster funding attached to the continuing resolution amounts to approximately $110 billion, with no offsets included.
Although some Republicans have voiced frustration over the bill&#8217;s additional provisions and delayed implementation, the House is anticipated to swiftly pass the legislation to prevent a government shutdown ahead of the holidays.
Image via Wikimedia Commons
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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>

Congressional Leaders Reach Bipartisan Deal To Avert Government Shutdown

When it comes to documentary series, true crime and murder suspects have become a staple for content creators, which could explain why several movies and series could be in the works detailing Luigi Mangione's life, as he awaits trial<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/24/12/42316904/unitedhealthcare-ceo-brian-thompson-fatally-shot-outside-nyc-hotel"> for allegedly killing</a> UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
What Happened: On Tuesday, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42541669/luigi-mangione-faces-murder-first-degree-life-in-prison-in-ceo-death-a-senseless-act-of-violence">announced upgraded charges</a> for Mangione in the death of Thompson. The 26-year-old now faces 11 charges, which include murder in the first degree that could see Mangione spend life behind bars if convicted.
Prior to the new charges, several entertainment companies announced plans for documentaries exploring the life of Mangione and the case that has captured worldwide attention.
Anonymous Content and Alex Gibney's Jigsaw Productions are working on a documentary on the shooting and story, according to a report from <a href="https://variety.com/2024/film/news/luigi-mangione-documentary-unitedhealthcare-1236250260/">Variety</a>. Gibney won the Academy Award for Best Documentary for "Taxi to the Dark Side" in 2008 and is well-known for several projects including "Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room."
The project, which is the third collaboration from Anonymous and Jigsaw, will explore what the killing means for America and the value placed on people who live and die, according to the report. The documentary will also look into the current frustrations Americans have with the health insurance sector amid rising costs and higher claim denial rates.
Gibney is also <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/23/03/31245565/unvarnished-examination-of-elon-musk-new-documentary-from-oscar-winner-coming-heres-what-te">working on a film</a> about Tesla CEO Elon Musk that he said would be the "definitive and unvarnished examination of" the billionaire. Musk called the movie a potential "hit piece."
Another documentary on Mangione from Emmy nominee Stephen Robert Morse has also been announced. The documentary from Morse follows his recent "Amanda Knox" and "How to Rob a Bank" directed documentaries that streamed on Netflix Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>), as reported by <a href="https://variety.com/2024/tv/global/luigi-mangione-documentary-stephen-robert-morse-amanda-knox-1236250741/">Variety</a>.
The documentary will look at the life of Mangione and the families of those involved in the case and also look at the health insurance sector.
"My goal is to present a balanced exploration of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson's assassination, showing all sides of the story while respecting the profound loss of life and its impact on everyone involved," Morse said.
While Netflix is not attached to the project, the past history between Morse and the streamer could give the company the inside track if it wants the documentary.
Investigation Discovery, which is a unit of Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>), is working on a one-hour special produced by Dan Abrams. The special has a working title of "Who Is Luigi Mangione?" and could premiere on the network and other Warner-owned assets in February, according to a <a href="https://variety.com/2024/tv/news/investigation-discovery-luigi-mangione-special-dan-abrams-1236251150/">Variety </a>report.
The special will look at "the lingering questions surrounding Mangione's arrest" and how a person born into wealth went on to commit a murder. Abrams, who is an ABC News correspondent and SiriusXM show host, will be featured on the special along with other experts and people close to Mangione.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/24/12/42418763/unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-chronic-pain-unabomber-fascination-isolation-details-emerge">UnitedHealthcare CEO Murder Suspect: Chronic Pain, Unabomber Fascination, Isolation Details Emerge</a>
50 Cent Praises Mangione: Rapper and actor 50 Cent expressed a desire to make a documentary of Mangione, which comes after he recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/05/38968131/diddy-do-it-documentary-on-embattled-rapper-snapped-up-by-worlds-biggest-streaming-platform">sold a documentary</a> about rapper Diddy on the allegations of sexual assault to Netflix.
50 Cent expressed praise for Mangione in a since-deleted social media post, as <a href="https://www.vibe.com/news/movies-tv/50-cent-documentary-alleged-unitedhealthcare-shooter-1234959771/">reported </a>by Vibe.
"I don't know, I kinda like this killer," the rapper said. "I'm sorry this is going this way it is but I'm doing a documentary on him, he is special! I apologize in advance for anyone who doesn't understand."
The rapper said learning of Mangione's alleged manifesto which detailed some potential motives for the alleged murder of Thompson is worth making a documentary about and bringing the story to the public.
Why It's Important: The public has been drawn to the murder story as Mangione was a promising business grad born into wealth. His back injury may have led to a fight against the health care industry.
People on social media<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/restaurants/24/12/42427146/pennsylvania-mcdonalds-where-unitedhealthcare-ceo-murder-suspect-arrested-gets-review-bombed-more-like-narc-donalds"> have praised Mangione</a> and feel sympathetic for the alleged killer, which may make these documentaries highly anticipated and widely watched.
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Photo: Via the Pennsylvania State Police

Entertainment

Legal

NFLX

Luigi Mangione Documentaries In The Works From Award-Winning Creators — And Possibly Rapper 50 Cent

Cigna (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CI#NYSE">CI</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 3.78% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 12.18%. Currently, Cigna has a market capitalization of $73.87 billion. 
Buying $100 In CI: If an investor had bought $100 of CI stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $996.09 today based on a price of $265.59 for CI at the time of writing.
<h3>Cigna's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734479110_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 20 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

Ukraine conducted an operation in Moscow that targeted and killed Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov, head of Russia's Radiological, Chemical and Biological <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/12/42280373/us-announces-725-million-arms-package-for-ukraine">Defense Troops.&nbsp;</a>
The attack was carried out using an explosive device hidden in a scooter, according to a <a href="https://www.wsj.com/world/russia/ukraine-says-it-killed-senior-russian-general-in-moscow-bombing-9e315b29">report</a> from the Wall Street Journal. Kirillov was killed in the explosion after he exited a residential building with his assistant, who also died in the blast. The explosive device was remotely triggered and packed with shrapnel equivalent to one kilogram of TNT.&nbsp;
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/24/12/42535400/americans-bought-less-but-paid-more-says-peter-schiff-experts-digest-november-retail-sales-data">&#8216;Americans Bought Less But Paid More,&#8217; Says Peter Schiff: Experts Digest November Retail Sales Data</a>
Ukrainian officials attributed the operation to the country's Security Service (SBU), which had recently accused Kirillov of war crimes involving banned chemical weapons in Ukraine. Kirillov is the highest-ranking Russian military official killed in Moscow since the war began.&nbsp;
Russian authorities classified the incident as terrorism and the Russia Security Council Deputy Head Dmitry Medvedev warned of "inevitable retribution" against Kyiv.&nbsp;
Financial Implications: The Russia-Ukraine war has driven the price of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/partner/fintech/24/12/42482711/trading-agricultural-commodities-the-how-and-why-heading-into-2025">several commodities </a>higher, including gold and oil.&nbsp;
The conflict contributed to higher gold prices due to increased geopolitical tensions and investors seeking safe-haven assets. An ounce of gold closed at $2,652 on Tuesday, up from around $1,800 per ounce in 2021 before the conflict began. 
The SPDR Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>), which tracks the price of gold by holding physical gold bullion in a trust, has risen more than 30% over the past year.&nbsp;
Oil has also been impacted by the Russia-Ukraine war as investors consider potential disruptions to Russian oil infrastructure and Russia&#8217;s oil exports face challenges due to sanctions and price caps, limiting market supply.&nbsp;
A barrel of West Texas Intermediate closed at $71.04 on Tuesday and the United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>), which tracks the daily prices of WTI, gained more than 14% since November 2021.&nbsp;
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Photo: Shutterstock

Specialty ETFs

Global

ETFs

Ukraine Kills Senior Russian General In Moscow Attack

Regional bank stocks have been on a tear since the 2024 U.S. election, with the SPDR S&amp;P Regional Banking ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRE#NYSE">KRE</a>) climbing about 10% versus the broader <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42536512/market-breadth-worsens-as-tech-giants-break-free-from-sp-500-reality-is-this-bullish-or-bearish-for-2025">S&amp;P 500&#8217;s 5% gain. </a>
Despite this already strong outperformance, JPMorgan analysts, led by Anthony Elian, CFA, see more upside.
The key drivers? A potential Trump administration's pro-business stance, easing regulation and a favorable interest rate backdrop.
In a note shared with clients on Tuesday, Elian indicated that investors — long on the sidelines due to frustrations such as regulation, rising deposit costs and the Spring 2023 banking turmoil — are beginning to show renewed interest in the sector.
&#8220;Our optimism for the group is not only driven by the likelihood of improving fundamentals next year in areas such as loan growth, deposit growth, and NIM expansion, but also tied to the fact that dozens of generalists and long only investors that we have spoken to since the election are showing increasing interest in the group but have not yet pulled the buy trigger en masse,&#8221; Elian said.
In essence, analysts at the U.S. largest investment bank are bullish on regional banks heading into 2025, with a strong case for 20% upside. 
Here's where they'd put $1,000 to work.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Why 2025 Could Be A Breakout Year For Regionals</h1>
According to JPMorgan, key catalysts driving stock gains across the industry next year include:
<ul>
<li>A revival in loan growth spurred by onshoring trends.</li>
<li>A deregulatory push from the upcoming Donald Trump&#8216;s administration, particularly if Basel III Endgame proposals are halted.</li>
<li>Improved M&amp;A activity, with banks like Comerica Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMA#NYSE">CMA</a>), First Horizon Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FHN#NYSE">FHN</a>), and Zions Bancorporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ZION#NASDAQ">ZION</a>) potentially benefiting.</li>
<li>Lower corporate taxes supporting bottom-line profitability.</li>
<li>A steep yield curve and the Fed's expected rate cuts in 2025, which could reduce deposit costs and boost Net Interest Margins (NIM).</li>
</ul>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Rate Cuts, Deposit Costs: A Big Win For Banks</h1>
JPMorgan highlights that deposit costs, which are tied to the Fed funds rate, remain critical to bank profitability.
As of the third quarter of 2024, the median cost of interest-bearing deposits stood at 3.5%, with higher-paying banks like Texas Capital Bancshares Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCBI#NASDAQ">TCBI</a>), Flagstar Financial Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FLG#NYSE">FLG</a>) and Valley National Bancorp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VLY#NASDAQ">VLY</a>) above 4%.
Banks paying higher rates have the most room to benefit as the Fed eases monetary policy in 2025. 
Lower-beta deposits, like those at First Hawaiian Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FHB#NASDAQ">FHB</a>) and Webster Financial Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBS#NYSE">WBS</a>), offer less flexibility for adjustments. 
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">JPMorgan's $1,000 Allocation Strategy</h1>
For retail investors looking to capitalize on regional bank momentum, JPMorgan provides a clear allocation breakdown:
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Stock</th>
<th>Allocation ($)</th>
<th>Rating</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Western Alliance Bancorporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WAL#NYSE">WAL</a>)</td>
<td>$110</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Citizens BancShares (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FCNCA#NASDAQ">FCNCA</a>)</td>
<td>$105</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Pinnacle Financial Partners (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PNFP#NASDAQ">PNFP</a>)</td>
<td>$102</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Synovus Financial Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNV#NYSE">SNV</a>)</td>
<td>$94</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Webster Financial Corp. </td>
<td>$92</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Valley National Bancorp </td>
<td>$90</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Zions Bancorp. </td>
<td>$80</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Horizon Corp. </td>
<td>$78</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Comerica Inc. </td>
<td>$65</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Flagstar Financial </td>
<td>$62</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Columbia Banking System (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COLB#NASDAQ">COLB</a>)</td>
<td>$40</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>First Hawaiian Inc. </td>
<td>$30</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Texas Capital Bancshares </td>
<td>$30</td>
<td>Underweight</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Top Picks For 2025</h1>
JPMorgan highlights Western Alliance Corp, First Citizens BancShares and Pinnacle Financial Partners Inc. its top picks for regional banks in 2025, citing their relative strength in loan growth, cost efficiency and positioning for upside.
JPMorgan also rates Synovus Financial Corp., Webster Financial Corp. and Valley National Bancorp at Overweight, pointing to solid fundamentals and opportunities for growth.
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The images used was created using artificial intelligence MidJourney.

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Econ #s

Economics

Federal Reserve

COLB

FCNCA

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TCBI

ZION

How To Invest $1,000 In Regional Banks For 2025: Top Wall Street Analyst Reveals His Top Picks

Carpenter Tech (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRS#NYSE">CRS</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 14.4% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 27.87%. Currently, Carpenter Tech has a market capitalization of $8.60 billion. 
Buying $100 In CRS: If an investor had bought $100 of CRS stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $349.81 today based on a price of $172.56 for CRS at the time of writing.
<h3>Carpenter Tech's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734477307_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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

Sterling Infrastructure (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STRL#NASDAQ">STRL</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 51.01% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 64.48%. Currently, Sterling Infrastructure has a market capitalization of $5.42 billion. 
Buying $100 In STRL: If an investor had bought $100 of STRL stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $1,177.27 today based on a price of $176.59 for STRL at the time of writing.
<h3>Sterling Infrastructure's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734476409_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.

STRL

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

Gartner (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IT#NYSE">IT</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 11.78% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 20.18%. Currently, Gartner has a market capitalization of $38.37 billion. 
Buying $1000 In IT: If an investor had bought $1000 of IT stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $39,985.53 today based on a price of $497.42 for IT at the time of writing.
<h3>Gartner's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1734475509_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$1000 Invested In Gartner 20 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

Earnings

BANX

ArrowMark Financial Reports Q3 EPS Of $0.70, NAV As Of November 30, 2024, Of $22.24

Mastercard Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) shares are moving higher in extended trading Tuesday after the company boosted its quarterly dividend and announced a new <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/24/12/b42540370/mastercard-board-of-directors-announces-quarterly-dividend-and-12-billion-share-repurchase-program">share repurchase program</a>.
What Happened: After the market close on Tuesday, Mastercard announced its board declared a quarterly cash dividend of 76 cents per share, a 15% increase compared to the company&#8217;s previous quarterly dividend of 66 cents per share.
The dividend will be paid on Feb. 7, 2025, to shareholders of record as of Jan. 9, 2025.
In addition to the dividend raise, Mastercard&#8217;s board also approved a new buyback, authorizing the company to repurchase up to $12 billion of its common stock. 
The new buyback program will go into effect once the company completes all repurchases remaining under its buyback announced in December 2023. Mastercard said it had approximately $3.9 billion remaining under its current repurchase program as of Dec. 13.
MA Price Action: <a href="http://benzinga.com/quote/ma">Mastercard shares</a> were up 0.71% in after-hours, trading at $534 at the time of publication Tuesday, according to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga Pro</a>.
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Photo: Shutterstock.

Buybacks

After-Hours Center

Mastercard Increases Dividend By 15%, Announces New $12B Buyback, Shares Move Higher After Hours

The Ordinary Shares have been approved for listing on the Nasdaq Capital Market and are expected to commence trading on December 18, 2024, under the ticker symbol "YSXT".

IPOs

YSX TECH. Prices IPO Of 1.25M Class A Ordinary Shares At $4.00 Per Share

Automaker Stellantis N.V. ($STLA), one of the major investors of Archer Aviation ($ACHR), recently bought shares of ACHR worth $5 million. This inv...

Insider Trading: Archer Aviation's (ACHR) Major Investor Boosts Stake by $5M

In a report released today, Colin Langan from Wells Fargo maintained a Sell rating on Stellantis (STLA – Research Report), with a price target of €...

Wells Fargo Sticks to Its Sell Rating for Stellantis (STLA)

Ford losing traction to rivals, downgraded at Jefferies to Underperform

Stellantis hopes to rebuild relationship with Italian government

Bullish option flow detected in Stellantis (STLA) NV with 10,214 calls trading, 2x expected, and implied vol increasing almost 3 points to 35.90%. ...

Stellantis NV call volume above normal and directionally bullish

Magna International: Weak Customer Positioning Creates Uncertain Future

Stellantis plans new Italian-made model to ease tensions

The U.S. government is running behind on plans to adopt electric vehicles (EV), which could be a warning sign for investors of EV stocks.

Not Even the Government is Ready to Switch to EVs

In a time when many firms are looking to pare back production, it is the opposite story for legacy automaker Stellantis ($STLA). Rather than reduce...

Stellantis (NYSE:STLA) Gears Up Italian Production

Stellantis (STLA) has committed to investing EUR 2B in Italy next year and increasing car production in the country, Amy Kazmin and Silvia Sciorill...

Stellantis intends to invest EUR 2B and increase production in Italy, FT reports

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Press Releases

Ram 1500 Named to Car and Driver's 10Best Vehicles for 2025

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Save the Planet … From Soulless EVs! World's Quickest and Most Powerful Muscle Car, the All-new Dodge Charger Daytona, Lands Now With New Marketing Campaign

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