Últimas noticias sobre TROOPS (NASDAQ:TROO) Bolsa

TROOPS

TROOPS Inc is a conglomerate group of various businesses with its headquarters based in Hong Kong. The group is principally engaged in money lending business in Hong Kong providing mortgage loans to high quality target borrowers, property investment to generate additional rental income and the development, operation and management of an online financial marketplace that provides one-stop financial technology solutions including API services by leveraging artificial intelligence, large data and blockchain, and cloud computing (SaaS). It derives revenue from Hong Kong and Australia. Majority of its revenue generates from domestic market.

TROOPS Inc

<p>B. Riley Securities  analyst Harold Goetsch   reiterates Bitcoin Depot (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BTM#NASDAQ">BTM</a>) with a Buy and raises the price target from $4.5 to $4.7.</p>


News

Price Target

Reiteration

Analyst Ratings

B. Riley Securities Reiterates Buy on Bitcoin Depot, Raises Price Target to $4.7

<p>Citigroup  analyst James Hardiman   maintains Winnebago Industries (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WGO#NYSE">WGO</a>) with a Buy and lowers the price target from $51 to $43.</p>


Citigroup Maintains Buy on Winnebago Industries, Lowers Price Target to $43

<p>Minnesota Gov. <strong>Tim Walz</strong> strongly criticized President <strong>Donald Trump</strong> in a recent MSNBC interview, calling him the "worst business executive" he's ever seen and slamming him for his ongoing trade war with Canada. Walz said Trump's policies have hurt Minnesota's economy, especially its agricultural sector, which relies heavily on trade with its northern neighbor.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;When Was Canada Our Enemy?&#8217;</h2>
<p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeWu-ju7nRA">Speaking</a> with MSNBC's Chris Hayes on March 13, the former Democratic vice presidential candidate criticized Trump's trade war and its devastating effects on Minnesota farmers.</p>
<p>"First of all, they&#8217;re our biggest trading partners," Walz said, referring to Canada. "It's incredibly disruptive."</p>
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<p>He said that Minnesota gets 90% of its potash, a key fertilizer ingredient, from Canada, and trade disruptions have increased costs for local farmers. Meanwhile, retaliatory tariffs from Canada have made it harder for Minnesota producers to sell their goods.</p>
<p>"So many Minnesotans are asking, when was Canada our enemy?" he said. "It makes no sense."</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump Signed The Deal</h2>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Walz: If trade is so bad with Canada. He was the guy who signed the deal. I think this is how he ran business. He stiffed contractors, he stiffed workers. He doesn&#39;t pay his bills. He declares bankruptcy. The one thing is his claim that he&#39;s the business president. He is the… <a href="https://t.co/Ybst63zUqO">pic.twitter.com/Ybst63zUqO</a></p>
<p>&mdash; Acyn (@Acyn) <a href="https://twitter.com/Acyn/status/1899979564216189387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>Walz also reminded Trump and his supporters that the trade agreement in place today is one that Trump himself signed.</p>
<p>"He negotiated the damn trade deal with them," Walz pointed out. "If trade is so bad with Canada, he was the guy who signed the deal."</p>
<p>Trump has repeatedly attacked trade relationships with Canada, at times seriously suggesting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43582659/trump-says-canada-much-better-off-being-the-51st-state-the-border-with-us-is-just-a-line">annexing the country as the 51st state</a>. But Walz said the consequences of Trump's erratic policies are no laughing matter.</p>
<p>"We have become untrustworthy," he said. "If they are buying our soybeans or they&#8217;re buying our corn, they&#8217;re going to go look for a fair trading partner."</p>
<p><strong>Trending: Hasbro, MGM Resorts, and Sketchers Use this Pre-IO AI Marketing Firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel"><strong>and You Can Own a Piece of it From $0.55/Share</strong></a></strong></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;The Worst Business Executive I've Ever Seen&#8217;</h2>
<p>Walz delivered a scathing critique of Trump's approach to trade and the economy. "He stiffed contractors, he stiffed workers, he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/09/40869534/new-report-shows-four-u-s-cities-are-chasing-trumps-campaign-for-over-700-000-in-unpaid-bills-some-g">doesn't pay his bills</a>, he declares bankruptcy," Walz said. "The one thing is, his claim that he&#8217;s the business president—he is the worst possible business executive that I have ever witnessed."</p>
<p>He also called out Trump's supporters in the business world, including Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) CEO <strong>Elon Musk</strong>, for backing what he sees as destructive policies.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;We Lost Markets That Took Us Decades to Cultivate&#8217;</h2>
<p>Walz warned that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/03/44352317/mark-cuban-slams-trump-administration-for-inflicting-economic-struggles-on-a-majority-of-republican-supporters-this-could-flip-voters">Trump's trade policies</a> have caused long-term damage. He recalled how, during Trump's presidency, farmers were subsidized just to stay afloat as they lost access to key markets.</p>
<p>"We lost markets that took us decades to cultivate," he said. "They went to Brazil, they went to Argentina, and now we've got a surplus of products, high input costs, and nowhere to sell them."</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Call for Business Leaders to Speak Up</h2>
<p>Walz urged the business community to push back against Trump's economic policies.</p>
<p>"I need the business community to speak up," he said. "The Wall Street Journal, thank you. Thank you for saying this is the <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/news/25/02/44032329/anthony-scaramucci-says-the-market-doesnt-like-trump-tariffs-compares-trump-to-hitler-appeaser-for-coddling-putin-and-berating-allies">stupidest trade war</a> because I've been saying it. Now I can go back to my constituents—Republican constituents—and say this is the reality of what you&#8217;re facing."</p>
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TSLA

'He's The Worst Business Executive I've Ever Seen, Says Tim Walz—Reminds Trump That He's The One Who Signed The Trade Deal With Canada

STLA

Stellantis Chairman Elkann Says We Do Not Think That Future Of Auto Industry Is To Convert To Defence; Automotive Industry And Defence Industry Are Not Alternative

<p>Italian workers in at least two U.S. military bases were caught off guard when they received an email demanding that they list <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44067298/what-did-you-do-last-week-part-ii-musks-doge-issues-second-email-mandate-for-executive-branch-employees">five key accomplishments</a> from the previous week. The message, tied to <strong>Elon Musk's</strong> Department of Government Efficiency, sparked outrage among union representatives who say the billionaire's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43581767/elon-musks-former-employees-warn-federal-workers-about-long-hours-firings-and-much-more">management style</a> clashes with Italy's labor protections.</p>
<p>The New York Times <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/12/world/europe/musk-email-italy-airbase.html">reported</a> that the email, which had already stirred controversy among federal employees in the U.S., was forwarded to Italian civilian workers at Aviano Air Base, home to the U.S. Air Force's 31st Fighter Wing and at least one other base in Italy, in the city of Vicenza. Their response was confusion, frustration, and a bit of humor.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">"We Are in Italy Here"</h2>
<p>In Italy, labor rights are deeply entrenched, with strong unions and strict protections against arbitrary job cuts. <strong>Roberto Del Savio</strong>, a union representative at Aviano, said that Musk's directives wouldn't be received the same way they might be in the U.S.</p>
<p>"We are in Italy here," he told the Times. "There are precise rules, and thank God for that."</p>
<p>Some employees responded to the email in jest. One reportedly wrote: "I was slicing pizza, another says something else." Others were simply puzzled by the demand, questioning whether Musk believed he had the authority to impose his policies beyond the U.S.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Union Pushback and a Growing Concern</h2>
<p>Italy hosts the Aviano Air Base, employing more than 4,000 local civilians in roles ranging from cooks and waiters to engineers and mechanics. These workers are unionized and protected under Italian labor laws, which are far stricter than those in the U.S.</p>
<p><strong>Pierpaolo Bombardieri</strong>, head of the Italian Uil union, was quick to push back on the email, calling it "unacceptable" and the method "aberrant."</p>
<p>"Ours is a system built on democracy, safeguards, and protections provided by contracts that must be respected," Bombardieri told the Times.</p>
<p>The paper also noted that Italian unions have written to both the Italian government and the U.S. Embassy demanding an explanation. Some are considering protests or strikes if clearer answers aren't provided.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Musk Doubles Down</h2>
<p>While Italian employees were left scratching their heads, Musk showed no signs of backing down. After facing resistance from some federal agencies in the U.S., <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43930142/elon-musk-says-doge-email-request-to-federal-workers-utterly-trivial-failure-to-respond-a-second-time-will-result">he dismissed concerns</a> about the email request, calling it "utterly trivial."</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The email request was utterly trivial, as the standard for passing the test was to type some words and press send!<br /><br />Yet so many failed even that inane test, urged on in some cases by their managers.<br /><br />Have you ever witnessed such INCOMPETENCE and CONTEMPT for how YOUR TAXES are… <a href="https://t.co/QjSmY4ezpg">https://t.co/QjSmY4ezpg</a></p>
<p>&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1894173297786720718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>"The standard for passing the test was to type some words and press send," Musk <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1894173297786720718">posted</a> on X. "Yet so many failed even that inane test, urged on in some cases by their managers."</p>
<p>He went further, warning that failure to comply a second time could result in termination, though union protections in Italy make such threats largely unenforceable.</p>
<p><strong><em>See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elon-musk-told-the-u-n-if-they-could-show-a-plan-for-ending-world-hunger-hed-donate-6-billion-i-will-sell-tesla-stock-right-now-and-do-it"><strong><em>Elon Musk Told The U.N. If They Could Show A Plan For Ending World Hunger He'd Donate $6 Billion – ‘I Will Sell Tesla Stock Right Now And Do It'</em></strong></a></em></strong></p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fears of Job Cuts and a Hiring Freeze</h2>
<p>The email isn't the only concern for Italian workers. Unions are also alarmed by recent cost-cutting measures at the base, including a hiring freeze and a freeze on work credit cards used for purchasing equipment.</p>
<p>At Aviano, 44 redundancies were initially announced in September before being reduced to 30 after negotiations. Now, unions worry that Musk's push for efficiency, coupled with Trump's broader government downsizing, could mean more layoffs in the near future.</p>
<p>"Workers are worried,"&nbsp; Del Savio <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/italian-unions-worried-about-job-cuts-us-military-bases-2025-03-14/">told</a> Reuters. "So far, I have not seen any written document pointing to U.S. disengagement from the site, but there are elements that make us wonder."</p>
<p>For now, it seems that Italian employees are only required to answer the email if it is sent directly from the U.S. government, not if it's forwarded by superiors. But, uncertainty remains over whether future directives will come straight from Washington.</p>
<p>The standoff underscores the stark contrast between Musk's approach to management—where job security is tied to relentless productivity—and Italy's deeply ingrained labor protections.</p>
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'I Was Slicing Pizza…'—Musk's Infamous Email Was Sent To Italian Workers And They Weren't Happy About It—'Not The Wild West Like The US'

<p>Sen. <strong>Bernie Sanders</strong> (I-VT) is calling out Starbucks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SBUX#NASDAQ">SBUX</a>) after the company paid new CEO <strong>Brian Niccol</strong> about $96 million for just four months of work last year. In an online post, Sanders criticized the pay package while union workers struggle to secure fair wages.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Sanders Slams Starbucks Over Executive Pay</h2>
<p>"If you&#8217;re the Starbucks CEO you get $96 million for 4 months of work including a $5 million bonus. If you&#8217;re a Starbucks union worker, the CEO is refusing to give you a decent raise to pay rent &amp; buy groceries. Starbucks must end its greed &amp; negotiate a fair union contract," Sanders <a href="https://x.com/BernieSanders/status/1899551236954693950">wrote</a>.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">If you&#39;re the Starbucks CEO you get $96 million for 4 months of work including a $5 million bonus.<br /> <br />If you&#39;re a Starbucks union worker, the CEO is refusing to give you a decent raise to pay rent &amp; buy groceries.<br /> <br />Starbucks must end its greed &amp; negotiate a fair union contract.</p>
<p>&mdash; Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) <a href="https://twitter.com/BernieSanders/status/1899551236954693950?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
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<p></p></figure></p>
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<p>Niccol, who joined Starbucks in September after being recruited from Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>), received one of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/08/40556572/from-chipotle-to-starbucks-brian-niccols-113m-pay-package-and-its-implications-for-the-coffee-chain">biggest compensation packages</a> in corporate America. About 94% of his pay came from stock awards, most of which are tied to performance, with the rest vesting over three years. He also received a $5 million sign-on bonus just one month after joining the company.</p>
<p>Starbucks ousted its previous CEO last year after declining sales, hoping Niccol could turn the business around. The company did not require him to relocate to Seattle, where it is based, and agreed to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40544276/starbucks-gives-new-ceo-brian-niccol-company-jet-to-fly-to-seattle-hq-sparks-environmental-backlash">cover his temporary housing and travel expenses</a>. Starbucks paid over $143,000 for Niccol's housing, with about half going toward tax-related costs. He also racked up $72,000 in flights between his home in Southern California and Seattle, along with $19,000 for other personal use of company aircraft, per filing.</p>
<p><strong>Trending: This platform is reshaping how you invest in private companies —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/kingscrowd-adv"><strong> </strong><strong>and you can be a part of it for $0.18 per share</strong></a></strong></p>
<p>According to <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-01-24/starbucks-ceo-made-96-million-in-first-four-months-on-the-job">Bloomberg</a>, Niccol's annual pay package was valued at around $113 million at the time of his hiring, largely due to stock awards meant to replace what he lost when leaving Chipotle. This places him among the top 20 highest-paid CEOs in the U.S.</p>
<p>Despite paying its CEO an enormous sum, Starbucks has been <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/01/42905366/starbucks-faces-34-new-union-complaints-amid-rising-tensions-with-workers">battling its unionized workers</a> over better wages and benefits. Workers across the country have pushed for improved pay, arguing that the company's profits should be shared more fairly with employees. Sanders, a longtime labor rights advocate, is pressuring Starbucks to negotiate a fair contract and address worker demands.</p>
<p>In its filing, Starbucks defended Niccol's pay, calling him a "highly sought-after, effective leader with a proven track record" who has the experience to drive the company's growth. However, as tensions between corporate leadership and union workers continue to escalate, the debate over executive pay and labor rights at Starbucks is far from over.</p>
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SBUX

'Starbucks Must End Its Greed'—Bernie Sanders Calls Out Starbucks CEO For Getting $96 Million For 4 Months Of Work

<p>President <strong>Donald Trump</strong> wants to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44311753/trump-wants-no-tax-for-americans-making-less-than-150-000-a-year-says-howard-lutnick-thats-what-im-w">eliminate federal income taxes</a> for Americans earning less than $150,000 a year, a move that could put thousands of extra dollars back into middle-class households.</p>
<p>Commerce Secretary <strong>Howard Lutnick</strong> confirmed the proposal in a CBS News <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irDuJt9dINo">interview</a>, saying, "I know what his goal is: No tax for anybody who makes less than $150,000 a year. That's his goal. That's what I'm working for."</p>
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</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Major Savings for Middle-Class Americans</h2>
<p>Businessman and real estate investor <strong>Grant Cardone</strong> applauded the plan, <a href="https://x.com/GrantCardone/status/1900372444931649702">tweeting</a>, &#8220;No tax on $150,000! Saves twelve million households $38,000 a year in federal taxes. This puts more money in middle-class families to buy homes. Brilliant, executable, practical, and viable action by President Trump."</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">No tax on $150,000!  Saves twelve million households $38,000 a year in federal taxes.  This puts more money in middle class family to buy homes.<br /><br />Brilliant executable practical and viable action by President Trump.</p>
<p>&mdash; Grant Cardone (@GrantCardone) <a href="https://twitter.com/GrantCardone/status/1900372444931649702?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2025</a></p></blockquote>
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<p>The proposal is part of a broader tax agenda that includes <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/44063509/trumps-5-trillion-to-11-trillion-tax-plan-a-boost-for-growth-or-a-path-to-unprecedented-debt">eliminating taxes</a> on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security income. Trump has also floated the idea of scrapping the Internal Revenue Service entirely, <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">replacing it</a> with what he calls an &#8220;External Revenue Service&#8221; to collect money from foreign sources instead of American taxpayers.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Questions Remain About Implementation</h2>
<p>While the proposal could provide significant financial relief, experts say key details are still missing. <strong>Carl Johnson</strong>, a certified public accountant in New Orleans, expressed skepticism to <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/taxes/trumps-latest-tax-proposal-no-taxes-for-those-earning-less-than-150000/">Bankrate</a>: "I'm not very hopeful about the way it is presented as a broad-based cut," warning that the plan might include provisions that exclude certain taxpayers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Many lower- and middle-income workers pay more in payroll taxes (for Social Security and Medicare) than in federal income tax. Additionally, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43831371/eliminating-social-security-income-taxes-would-cost-1-5-trillion-and-deplete-the-trust-fund-by-2032-who-wins-and-who-loses">cutting taxes on Social Security benefits</a> could increase the budget deficit by $1.6 trillion over ten years, <a href="https://taxfoundation.org/blog/trump-social-security-tax/">according</a> to the Tax Foundation.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Republican-Controlled Congress Could Pave the Way</h2>
<p>With Congress currently debating the extension of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Trump's administration is pushing for even more aggressive tax cuts. Lutnick suggested that significant tax-law changes are expected, especially with a Republican-controlled Congress.</p>
<p><strong><em>See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/startengine-own"><strong><em>The $1.3 Billion Startup Investment Boom: How This Company's Explosive Growth Is Opening Doors For Everyday Investors With A New $500 Minimum</em></strong></a></em></strong></p>
<p>Trump's tax plans have already triggered strong reactions. Some economists warn that aggressive tax cuts could worsen the federal deficit, while supporters argue they will stimulate economic growth and bring jobs back to the U.S.</p>
<p>Trump's proposal to eliminate income taxes for those earning under $150,000 could indeed be a game-changer for millions of middle-class Americans. However, major questions remain about how it will be funded and whether payroll taxes would also be affected.</p>
<p>For now, the idea of no federal income taxes for millions of Americans has captured the attention of entrepreneurs like Cardone, who see it as a bold move with big potential benefits.</p>
<p><strong>Read Next:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/overplay">Mark Cuban Backs This Innovative Startup That Turns Videos into Games  &#8212; Claim Your Share Now</a></strong></li>
<li><strong>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2"><strong>with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.26/share!</strong></a></strong></li>
</ul>


'12 Million Households Will Save $38,000 A Year'—Grant Cardone Calls Trump's Plan To Waive Tax Under $150K 'Brilliant, Practical And Viable'

WIIM

CANF

Can-Fite Biopharma shares are trading lower. The company announced a Phase II design is completed and preparatory work is undergoing for the initiation of clinical study in the rare genetic disease Lowe Syndrome.

<p>Citigroup  analyst Scott Gruber   maintains Valaris (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VAL#NYSE">VAL</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $48 to $44.</p>


Citigroup Maintains Neutral on Valaris, Lowers Price Target to $44

<p>Citigroup  analyst Scott Gruber   maintains Transocean (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RIG#NYSE">RIG</a>) with a Neutral and lowers the price target from $4.5 to $3.5.</p>


Citigroup Maintains Neutral on Transocean, Lowers Price Target to $3.5

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on <strong>IREN</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IREN#NASDAQ">IREN</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the positions showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with IREN, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>Today, Benzinga's options scanner spotted 11 options trades for <strong>IREN</strong>.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 63% bullish and 27%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the options we uncovered, there was 1 put, for a total amount of $57,636, and 10, calls, for a total amount of $933,486.</p>
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
<p>After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $5.0 and $10.0 for IREN, spanning the last three months.</p>
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for IREN's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of IREN's whale trades within a strike price range from $5.0 to $10.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>IREN 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742398273_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$1.78</td>
<td>$1.71</td>
<td>$1.71</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$299.2K</td>
<td>37.8K</td>
<td>2.0K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$1.72</td>
<td>$1.64</td>
<td>$1.65</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$165.3K</td>
<td>37.8K</td>
<td>3.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$1.65</td>
<td>$1.64</td>
<td>$1.65</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$82.5K</td>
<td>37.8K</td>
<td>3.8K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$2.7</td>
<td>$2.61</td>
<td>$2.7</td>
<td>$10.00</td>
<td>$74.2K</td>
<td>3.2K</td>
<td>326</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>IREN</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$3.45</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$3.4</td>
<td>$5.00</td>
<td>$68.0K</td>
<td>3.3K</td>
<td>414</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About IREN</h3>
<p>IREN Ltd is engaged in data center business powering the future of Bitcoin, AI and beyond utilizing renewable energy.</p>
<p>Following our analysis of the options activities associated with IREN, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.</p>
<h3>Current Position of IREN</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 5,752,487, with IREN's price up by 7.97%, positioned at $7.12.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 56 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Professional Analyst Ratings for IREN</h3>
<p>Over the past month, 1 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $12.0.</p>
<p><strong>Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?</strong></p>
<p>20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from JP Morgan upgraded its action to Overweight with a price target of $12. </p>
<p>Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.</p>
<p>If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for IREN, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.</p>


Options

Markets

IREN

What the Options Market Tells Us About IREN

<p>Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Salesforce (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRM#NYSE">CRM</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in CRM usually suggests something big is about to happen.</p>
<p>We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 10 extraordinary options activities for Salesforce. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.</p>
<p>The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 40% leaning bullish and 30% bearish. Among these notable options, 5 are puts, totaling $493,107, and 5 are calls, amounting to $299,121.</p>
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $200.0 to $340.0 for Salesforce during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
<p>In terms of liquidity and interest, the mean open interest for Salesforce options trades today is 530.5 with a total volume of 829.00.</p>
<p>In the following chart, we are able to follow the development of volume and open interest of call and put options for Salesforce's big money trades within a strike price range of $200.0 to $340.0 over the last 30 days.</p>
<h3>Salesforce 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742398267_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CRM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>10/17/25</td>
<td>$12.2</td>
<td>$11.4</td>
<td>$11.63</td>
<td>$240.00</td>
<td>$348.9K</td>
<td>11</td>
<td align="right">300</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$6.05</td>
<td>$6.0</td>
<td>$6.05</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$101.6K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
<td align="right">225</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$25.15</td>
<td>$22.9</td>
<td>$24.25</td>
<td>$260.00</td>
<td>$84.8K</td>
<td>43</td>
<td align="right">35</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRM</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>04/04/25</td>
<td>$17.75</td>
<td>$16.85</td>
<td>$17.75</td>
<td>$295.00</td>
<td>$53.2K</td>
<td>892</td>
<td align="right">30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>10/17/25</td>
<td>$39.2</td>
<td>$34.35</td>
<td>$37.0</td>
<td>$270.00</td>
<td>$51.8K</td>
<td>18</td>
<td align="right">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Salesforce</h3>
<p>Salesforce provides enterprise cloud computing solutions. The company offers customer relationship management technology that brings companies and customers together. Its Customer 360 platform helps the group to deliver a single source of truth, connecting customer data across systems, apps, and devices to help companies sell, service, market, and conduct commerce. It also offers Service Cloud for customer support, Marketing Cloud for digital marketing campaigns, Commerce Cloud as an e-commerce engine, the Salesforce Platform, which allows enterprises to build applications, and other solutions, such as MuleSoft for data integration.</p>
<h3>Where Is Salesforce Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a volume of 1,071,360, the price of CRM is up 0.12% at $279.06. </li>
<li>RSI indicators hint that the underlying stock may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings are expected to be released in 70 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Salesforce</h3>
<p>Over the past month, 5 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $380.4.</p>
<p><strong>Unusual Options Activity Detected: Smart Money on the Move</strong></p>
<p>Benzinga Edge's Unusual Options board spots potential market movers before they happen. See what positions big money is taking on your favorite stocks. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-checkout/?t=Be8be9arja3be22bz20&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Citigroup keeps a Neutral rating on Salesforce with a target price of $335.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from BMO Capital persists with their Outperform rating on Salesforce, maintaining a target price of $367.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from B of A Securities has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Salesforce, which currently sits at a price target of $400.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Piper Sandler persists with their Overweight rating on Salesforce, maintaining a target price of $400.<br />
&#x2A; Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Scotiabank continues to hold a Sector Outperform rating for Salesforce, targeting a price of $400. </p>
<p>Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Salesforce options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


Unpacking the Latest Options Trading Trends in Salesforce

<p>Whales with a lot of money to spend have taken a noticeably bearish stance on <strong>CrowdStrike Holdings</strong>.</p>
<p>Looking at options history for CrowdStrike Holdings (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) we detected 38 trades.</p>
<p>If we consider the specifics of each trade, it is accurate to state that 42% of the investors opened trades with bullish expectations and 44% with bearish.</p>
<p>From the overall spotted trades, 15 are puts, for a total amount of $663,923 and 23, calls, for a total amount of $1,158,352.</p>
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $220.0 to $480.0 for CrowdStrike Holdings during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.</p>
<p>This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for CrowdStrike Holdings's options for a given strike price.</p>
<p>Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of CrowdStrike Holdings's whale activity within a strike price range from $220.0 to $480.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>CrowdStrike Holdings 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742398262_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th align="right"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>CRWD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$24.6</td>
<td>$23.95</td>
<td>$23.95</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>$114.9K</td>
<td align="right">551</td>
<td align="right">48</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRWD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>07/18/25</td>
<td>$99.75</td>
<td>$96.75</td>
<td>$96.75</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
<td>$106.4K</td>
<td align="right">25</td>
<td align="right">11</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRWD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$23.45</td>
<td>$22.9</td>
<td>$23.45</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$91.4K</td>
<td align="right">770</td>
<td align="right">111</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRWD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$92.2</td>
<td>$89.25</td>
<td>$90.88</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$90.8K</td>
<td align="right">196</td>
<td align="right">280</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CRWD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$156.9</td>
<td>$155.0</td>
<td>$155.01</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$77.5K</td>
<td align="right">7</td>
<td align="right">5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About CrowdStrike Holdings</h3>
<p>CrowdStrike is a cloud-based cybersecurity company specializing in next-generation security verticals such as endpoint, cloud workload, identity, and security operations. CrowdStrike's primary offering is its Falcon platform that offers a proverbial single pane of glass for an enterprise to detect and respond to security threats attacking its IT infrastructure. The Texas-based firm was founded in 2011 and went public in 2019.</p>
<p>After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding CrowdStrike Holdings, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.</p>
<h3>CrowdStrike Holdings's Current Market Status</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 929,730, the CRWD's price is up by 2.98%, now at $373.97. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 76 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On CrowdStrike Holdings</h3>
<p>Over the past month, 5 industry analysts have shared their insights on this stock, proposing an average target price of $433.0.</p>
<p><strong>Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?</strong></p>
<p>20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;adType=benzinga-insights&amp;ad=options-activity&amp;campaign=wallstreetadvantage"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from UBS has decided to maintain their Buy rating on CrowdStrike Holdings, which currently sits at a price target of $450.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Citizens Capital Markets downgraded its action to Market Outperform with a price target of $400.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Raymond James has revised its rating downward to Outperform, adjusting the price target to $390.<br />
&#x2A; An analyst from Stifel persists with their Buy rating on CrowdStrike Holdings, maintaining a target price of $475.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from JP Morgan keeps a Overweight rating on CrowdStrike Holdings with a target price of $450. </p>
<p>Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for CrowdStrike Holdings with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


CRWD

Spotlight on CrowdStrike Holdings: Analyzing the Surge in Options Activity

<p>Citigroup  analyst Scott Gruber   maintains Seadrill (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SDRL#NYSE">SDRL</a>) with a Buy and lowers the price target from $46 to $35.</p>


SDRL

Citigroup Maintains Buy on Seadrill, Lowers Price Target to $35

SRPT

Sarepta Therapeutics shares are trading higher. The stock fell on Tuesday after the company reported a patient death following treatment with Elevidys.

<p>Analog Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADI#NASDAQ">ADI</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 1.08% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 9.26%. Currently, Analog Devices has a market capitalization of $103.88 billion. </p>
<p><strong>Buying $1000 In ADI:</strong> If an investor had bought $1000 of ADI stock 20 years ago, it would be worth <strong>$5,873.25</strong> today based on a price of $209.44 for ADI at the time of writing.</p>
<h3>Analog Devices's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742398209_0.png" alt="comp_fig" /></p>
<p>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.</p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


Trading Ideas

Here's How Much You Would Have Made Owning Analog Devices Stock In The Last 20 Years

<p>Electric vehicles are an exciting commodity, experiencing rapid and consistent growth. The technology is constantly proving itself to be the next evolution in the auto industry. Government incentives and consumer shifts toward more sustainable buying practices help its impressive trajectory.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2024/trends-in-electric-cars">Global projections show</a> EV sales surpassing 30 million units annually within the decade. US markets are expected to play a crucial role in this trend, making today a critical time for investors to decide whether to buy into related industries.</p>
<p>Those wanting to ride the industry waves must know the mindsets and driving forces behind auto manufacturers, consumers, and government policies. Understanding these aspects is crucial for making informed investment decisions.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>EV Financing vs. Buying: Key Differences</strong></h2>
<p>Both financing and buying get the consumer behind the wheel of an EV. However, each method has different implications for the vehicle&#8217;s depreciation and cost of ownership. They are also differently handled when it comes to government or manufacturer benefits to the consumer.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Definition of EV Financing vs. Buying</strong></h3>
<p>Financing involves using an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/auto-loan-marketplace">auto loan</a> or other contract to access the vehicle. This method has the advantage of spreading the cost across a future period, allowing consumers to &#8220;own&#8221; an EV without slowly saving up to buy the asset outright.</p>
<p>The primary downside of an auto loan is interest payments, which can greatly increase the expected cost of an EV. Consumers&#8217; income sources may fluctuate, causing them to miss payments and incur late fees or additional interest. Additionally, financed vehicles are not truly owned by the consumer until they are paid off.</p>
<p>Another avenue for financing is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-sellers/19/04/13420381/the-pros-and-cons-of-leasing-a-car">car leasing</a>, which allows consumers to rent a vehicle for a period. Typically, monthly lease payments are cheaper than traditional car payments. Many contracts also include maintenance packages, removing confusing entry barriers to EV ownership and convincing fence-sitters to make the switch.</p>
<p>The most significant negative to leasing is that the leaser does not gain ownership of the EV. The leasing agency maintains ownership regardless of how long or how much the consumer has paid into its usage.</p>
<p>Buying an EV outright immediately transfers ownership. The consumer isn&#8217;t on the hook for interest payments or punished with late fees. However, owners are entirely responsible for the upkeep of their vehicles and maintaining their value.</p>
<p>EVs tend to depreciate more rapidly than traditional gasoline vehicles. This varying depreciation stems from EVs&#8217; battery technology and federal incentives affecting prices. So, consumers who expect to resell their EVs must keep this in mind when deciding between leasing and buying.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Consumer Behavior Trends</strong></h3>
<p><a href="https://www.virta.global/global-electric-vehicle-market">The 2020s have marked</a> the largest increase rate of EVs on roadways. As years pass, the public gains a better understanding and trust in the technology, and the initially high upfront costs steadily decrease. The most influential factors to this growth include:</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Government and Manufacturer Incentives</strong></h4>
<p>Automakers pushing the product offer attractive financing programs. Prominent companies like Tesla, Rivian, Lucid, and Ford aggressively promote financing options that frequently beat traditional creditors.</p>
<p>Various federal benefits are also available for EV owners. These are typically used to propel the EV industry in the hope of making the models mainstream and reducing the US carbon footprint. The most prominent incentives are reserved for those purchasing new models, leading many consumers to stray from used EVs.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Improved Selection</strong></h4>
<p>EVs are expanding into many driving niches that once hindered their sales. Manufacturers cover every auto type, including working trucks, sports cars, and adventure vehicles. This means that EVs aren&#8217;t only for hardcore environmentalists. The technology can accommodate various lifestyles without sacrificing usability and convenience.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Technology Forward</strong></h4>
<p>Gadgets and gizmos in cars aren&#8217;t a gimmick anymore. Console tablets, built-in computers, windshield AI, and countless other technologies are improving the owner experience in terms of maintenance and drivability.</p>
<p>EVs are early adopters of the most revolutionary technologies. Their more powerful batteries and forward-thinking development teams strengthen their mass market appeal and draw in a new generation of tech-savvy drivers.</p>
<p>Overall, the combination of reduced pricing, accessible financing, and increased model diversity has caused EV popularity to explode in the past two decades.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Financial Considerations for Consumers &amp; Investors</strong></h2>
<p>Understanding the hidden financial aspects of EV ownership is crucial to interested consumers and investors gauging the industry&#8217;s future. Several factors, such as depreciation rates, leasing trends, and technological innovation, will heavily impact the EV sector.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Depreciation and Resale Value of EVs</strong></h3>
<p>One of the biggest worries for new EV owners is the rapid depreciation these cars experience. Some estimates report that EVs decrease in value by 50 percent more than traditional cars in the first five years off the lot.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Decreasing Battery Range</strong></h4>
<p>The first reason for the depreciation can be considered the EV industry&#8217;s &#8220;boogeyman.&#8221; Battery life. Electric vehicles currently use lithium-ion cells, which start deteriorating right after manufacturing. These cells lose their ability to retain energy as they&#8217;re put through charge cycles, meaning that the EV&#8217;s maximum range slowly decreases.</p>
<p>These qualities mean that used or older models are less attractive to buyers as they automatically have a reduced range compared to new ones.</p>
<p>There are a few alternatives to lithium-ion cells already under testing and minor use. Solid-state batteries are at the forefront of these considerations. Toyota, a leader in solid-state battery adoption, lauds the technology as a step up in batteries&#8217; charging speeds, sustainability, safety, and durability. These batteries utilize solid electrolytes, which improve resistance during charge cycles and reduce fire hazards.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Quickly Obsoleted Models</strong></h4>
<p>Ironically, the EV industry&#8217;s blazing fast technological progress also contributes to its vehicles&#8217; marked depreciation. It doesn&#8217;t take EVs decades to improve. Yearly releases make considerable improvements to efficiency, safety, and convenience. This means that there is a perceivable difference in quality between models only a year apart, causing &#8220;old&#8221; models to become outdated far more quickly than a traditional ICE vehicle might.</p>
<p>Additionally, improved batteries and material sourcing rapidly reduce manufacturing costs. These savings are often translated to lower market prices, accelerating the devaluation of older models.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Selective Government Incentives</strong></h4>
<p>Buyers are often denied access to the full scope of federal tax benefits if they purchase a used EV. This is partially because government programs are meant to support the manufacturers and incentivize EV development, which is most effective if consumers buy new ones.</p>
<p>These financial benefits can make the out-of-pocket cost of a new EV considerably closer to the used value. As a result, the secondary market for EVs is impacted, as buyers may prefer purchasing new models that qualify for incentives rather than used ones that do not.</p>
<p>Consumers and speculative investors must consider how depreciation affects the secondary market and watch how automakers work to maintain industry stability.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Loan vs. Buy Rates: What&#8217;s Changing?</strong></h3>
<p>Understanding the consumer&#8217;s options when purchasing an EV provides investors with essential context. It helps them understand how consumers respond to trends and which financing bodies benefit most from EV growth.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Rising Interest Rates and Their Effect on EV Financing</strong></h4>
<p>The 10-year <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/treasury-yields">Treasury Bond Yield</a> is the interest rate applied to the US government when it borrows money. This interest rate is used as a national benchmark and affects interest rates set by banks and other financing entities.</p>
<p>Only a few days into 2025, the 10-year Treasury bond yield exceeded its peak from 2024. This surprise uptick led to increased auto loan rates in the following months. Additionally, the turmoil brought by current US tariff policies and subsequent trade wars is substantially decreasing the likelihood of lower interest.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Why Leasing EVs Is Becoming More Attractive in 2025</strong></h2>
<p>In comparison, leasing is quickly losing its stigma and emerging as the more tempting option. Manufacturers, particularly smaller outfits, are pushing favorable lease deals to increase their brand&#8217;s visibility on roadways.</p>
<p>This allows dealerships and services to provide more consumer-friendly monthly lease payments while avoiding the risks of short-term depreciation. Leasing EVs will likely remain the more popular option as long as EV technology maintains its current growth, improving models&#8217; range and features with every iteration.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Tax Incentives &amp; Policy Impact</strong></h3>
<p>Tax breaks and rebates are crucial to our current EV market, influencing consumer and automaker decisions. Federal and state-level policies continue to evolve, affecting both buyers and leasing options.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Federal EV Credits</strong></h3>
<p>There are various federal benefits for EV owners, namely the <a href="https://goodcar.com/electric-vehicles/guide-to-the-ev-tax-credit">2024 EV tax credit</a>, which provided up to a $7500 tax credit for people buying a new EV.</p>
<p>The 2022 Inflation Reduction Act introduced this benefit to reduce Americans&#8217; carbon footprint. While the maximum benefit is only given to consumers buying new EVs, those buying used models may qualify for up to $4000.</p>
<p>The tax credit also applies to leased vehicles. Lease contracts can earn consumers up to $4000 since EVs qualify as commercial vehicles under the Inflation Reduction Act.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>State-Level Incentives</strong></h3>
<p>Many states, like California, New York, and Colorado, offer distinctive EV tax credits and rebates. These benefits reduce ownership costs and make EVs more viable for long-term use. Incentives often change based on income levels, vehicle models, and whether the car is purchased or leased.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Investment Implications: Who Benefits?</strong></h2>
<p>EV financing and purchasing trends are evolving, and various industries stand to benefit. Automakers, financing organizations, and tech suppliers have the most direct connections to the industry and its success. These should be the first places every prospective investor looks.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Automakers (TSLA, F, GM, RIVN, LCID, BYDDY)</strong></h3>
<p>The most obvious beneficiaries of EV success are the automakers like Tesla, Ford, GM, and Rivian. However, they are also spurring this growth by constantly innovating on technology and financing options, improving the mass market appeal and affordability of their product.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Tesla</strong></h4>
<p>Tesla was among the first to control its products in the secondary market. The EV giant&#8217;s trade-in program accepts used Teslas and provides credit toward a new vehicle. Afterward, Tesla updates the software and parts before reselling the vehicle.</p>
<p>This strategy is most frequently seen with upgrading smartphones, but Tesla has applied it to a far pricier product. It helped Tesla create stronger ties with its customers, boosting product loyalty and profiting doubly on a single vehicle.</p>
<p>In 2023, Tesla <a href="https://ir.tesla.com/_flysystem/s3/sec/000162828024002390/tsla-20231231-gen.pdf">reported </a>that about 20 percent of its vehicles were leased. This focus on leases provides the company with a steady and repeating revenue stream that takes maximum advantage of the EV market&#8217;s quirks.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>General Motors</strong></h4>
<p>GM is one of Tesla&#8217;s largest competitors and has created much-needed competition in the US market. Notably, GM worked with EVgo to create a strong charging infrastructure along highway systems that provided an alternative option to Tesla&#8217;s Supercharger network.</p>
<p>Additionally, GM Financial crafts competitive financing options, directly controlling interest rates and lease offers on a flexible vehicle lineup.</p>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Rivian</strong></h4>
<p>Rivian is a newer market entrant that targets a different niche than the bigger names in the industry. Rather than make sport or city-focused vehicles, Rivian creates electric pick-up trucks, delivery vans, and rugged SUVs.</p>
<p>Previously, batteries were not powerful enough to reliably perform in vehicles meant for more rigorous use. Rapid technological advancements and the spread of EV charging stations around the nation have helped &#8220;working vehicle&#8221; manufacturers like Rivian become more mainstream.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Auto Financing &amp; Leasing Companies</strong></h3>
<p>The favorable terms offered directly from automakers are often competitive, causing many consumers to rely on auto financing or leasing companies to afford an EV.</p>
<p>Ally Financial and Capital One are major auto loan services garnering partnerships with equally large titans like GM and Ford. These exclusive deals create a pipeline of interested buyers between the manufacturer and the financier. These partnerships also allow auto financers to offer better lease terms to loan applicants than most competitors.</p>
<p>On the other hand, <a href="https://www.creditacceptance.com/">Credit Acceptance Corp (CACC)</a> is targeting a more forgotten demographic in the EV game. Buyers with lower credit scores are often denied loans. However, EVs are growing more affordable, and the price gap between traditional cars is closing fast.</p>
<p>The growing EV interest among groups previously left out of the industry due to high price points has allowed CACC and other lenders to swoop in with subprime auto loans.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>EV Battery &amp; Tech Suppliers</strong></h3>
<p>Batteries are expensive and are one of the main reasons for historically high EV prices. They are made from high-cost raw materials like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and various other metals. Prices are also affected by the battery&#8217;s size and the vehicle type it is designed for.</p>
<p>However, battery residual values heavily impact the used EV market. Consumers want a vehicle that keeps its value well, and any range loss leads to significantly reduced resale prices. This reticence firmly pushes the leasing sector, in which consumers use the EV without incurring many drawbacks of personal ownership.</p>
<p>The leasing model is beneficial to battery suppliers since it provides better chances to sell replacement batteries to manufacturers who can better handle the costs. These replacements create another selling avenue for their product aside from new vehicles.</p>
<p>Additionally, breakthroughs in unexpected commercial areas are causing more money to flow naturally into the EV industry. <a href="https://www.catl.com/">CATL </a>provides a wide array of vehicle solutions, creating batteries for scooters, construction vehicles, and even hybrid-powered sea vessels.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.quantumscape.com/">QuantumScape </a>is also advancing the field via solid-state battery manufacturing. R&amp;D financing is crucial, but improvements to these batteries&#8217; weight and size will make them the new industry standard in the coming years.</p>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Future Trends</strong></h2>
<p>It is expected that the EV leasing market will continue to pull ahead from outright sales in the next five to ten years. Depreciation rates and higher interest rates coming in 2025 are deterring consumers from buying EVs for themselves. However, new technologies like solid-state batteries or the removal of federal benefits for new vehicles may shake that norm.</p>
<p>Investors should consider positioning themselves in stocks that benefit from leasing trends, focusing on supporting manufacturers and financing organizations. Tesla and GM are among the stocks that will likely benefit from increasing leasing trends.</p>
<p>Whether consumers finance or buy an EV affects automakers, suppliers, lenders, and investors. Grasping these relationships and watching them react to incoming technologies is crucial to proper investing strategies.</p>


Opinion

Tech

Personal Finance

EV Financing vs. Buying: Financial & Tax Implications for Investors

<p>Google parent<strong> Alphabet Inc </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>)<strong> </strong>acquired cloud security startup <strong>Wiz</strong> for $32 billion in an all-cash transaction.</p>
<p>Here are some key analyst takeaways.</p>
<ul>
<li>Cantor Fitzgerald <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/596f57cb35f48b00011db3ec/deepak-mathivanan">analyst Deepak Mathivanan</a> maintained a Neutral rating and price target of $200.</li>
<li>Rosenblatt Securities <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst/586cf168351b9b0001a3054e/barton-crockett">analyst Barton Crockett</a> reiterated a Neutral rating and price target of $205.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">other analyst stock ratings</a></strong>.</p>
<p><strong>Cantor Fitzgerald</strong>: The Wiz acquisition is anticipated to close in 2026 after regulatory approvals, following which the cloud security company's offerings are expected to be available across other cloud service providers, Mathivanan said in a note. "We think Wiz significantly enhances GCP&#8217;s security offerings," which should help Alphabet compete better with <strong>Amazon.com Inc's</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) AWS and <strong>Microsoft Corp's</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) Azure, "with an extensive product suite," he added.</p>
<p>The Cloud-Native Application Protection Platform (CNAPP) market is "among the fastest-growing category within cybersecurity currently and Wiz is used by around 50% of Fortune 100 companies, the analyst stated. "More recently, the company has made a push into the AI Security Posture Management (AI-SPM) business- helping to further increase data security for customers&#8217; AI models, which can consume massive amounts of data," he further wrote.</p>
<p><strong>Rosenblatt Securities</strong>: Wiz's revenues are widely expected to grow by around 50% year-on-year to near $1,000 billion in 2025, Crockett said. The cloud security firm's multi-cloud capabilities, which Alphabet intends to retain post-acquisition, is "clearly helpful for a rising share-gainer like Google Cloud," he added.</p>
<p>While Wiz's revenue growth may be modest compared to Google Cloud, it represents growth in an area "that is very important to investor sentiment, and where investors appear to be twitchy right now around small wiggles in quarterly growth rates," the analyst wrote. Although the acquisition will help Google Cloud, there are antitrust risks and concerns around the price being paid for the purchase, he further stated.</p>
<p><strong>Price Action:</strong> Shares of Alphabet had risen by 0.73% to $161.84 at the time of publication on Wednesday.</p>
<p><strong>Read More:</strong> </p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44393619/nvidia-teams-up-with-gehc-google-ibm-and-crowdstrike-to-redefine-ai-and-quantum-technology"><strong>NVIDIA Teams Up with GE, Google, IBM, And CrowdStrike To Redefine AI And Quantum Technology</strong></a></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>


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