Aquestive Therapeutics Stock (NASDAQ: AQST)

Aquestive Therapeutics (NASDAQ:AQST) Stock

AQUESTIVE THERAPEUTICS INC

Aquestive Therapeutics

Aquestive Therapeutics Inc is a specialty pharmaceutical company engaged in developing and commercializing differentiated products to meet medical needs. Its later-stage product pipeline focuses on the treatment of diseases of the Central Nervous System (CNS), and an earlier-stage pipeline for the treatment of severe allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. Its commercial product portfolio includes Suboxone, Emylif, Ondif and Sympazan. The product pipeline includes Libervant Buccal Film, AQST-108. The majority of its revenue comes from the United States.

Aquestive Therapeutics, Inc. - Common Stock

Aquestive Therapeutics Inc

Amid mounting fears of foreign espionage and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43426111/openai-rethinks-open-source-as-deepseek-gains-ground-sam-altman-hints-at-major-changes-in-ai-model-development">alleged model theft</a> by Chinese rival DeepSeek, ChatGPT-parent OpenAI has reportedly ramped up its internal security protocols.
What Happened: OpenAI has tightened security to prevent corporate espionage and leaks of its foundational model technologies, reported <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/f896c4d9-bab7-40a2-9e67-4058093ce250">the</a> Financial Times, citing several people close to the company.
This follows allegations that Chinese AI startup DeepSeek used a technique <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43354099/openai-alleges-deepseek-used-proprietary-models-without-permission-as-microsoft-investigates-ai-secu">known as &#8220;distillation&#8221; to copy</a> OpenAI's models and build a rival system.
The company has adopted an internal "deny-by-default" egress policy, cutting off internet access to internal systems unless explicitly permitted, the report said.
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/fda/25/06/45945282/sarepta-therapeutics-stock-plummets-over-40-on-second-fatal-case-linked-to-its-gene-therapy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarepta Therapeutics Stock Plummets Over 40% On Second Fatal Case Linked To Its Gene Therapy</a>
It has also installed biometric fingerprint scans at secure facilities and restricted employee access under a system known as information "tenting."
For instance, staff working on the internally code-named "Strawberry" model were warned not to discuss the project outside the designated "tent," ensuring only authorized personnel had access to critical conversations and code, the report noted.
"It got very tight — you either had everything or nothing," a source told the publication, describing the new protocols. Over time, more staff are being granted limited access to specific components without visibility into broader projects.
To lead this transformation, OpenAI hired Dane Stuckey, former chief information security officer at Palantir Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>), last October. He now oversees cyber and data defense alongside Matt Knight, OpenAI's VP of security products.
The company has also brought on retired U.S. Army General Paul Nakasone to its board, bolstering its defense posture.
Why It's Important: As tensions escalate between the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/25/07/46266218/us-plans-to-restrict-ai-chip-exports-to-malaysia-thailand-to-curb-diversion-to-china">U.S. and China over AI</a> leadership, OpenAI's moves reflect a broader concern that foundational model data could be weaponized by geopolitical adversaries.
U.S. authorities have warned that China is aggressively <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/02/43600852/china-sets-sights-on-us-tech-companies-as-trade-tensions-rise">targeting American tech firms</a> to gain access to advanced models and IP.
OpenAI insists these measures are part of its commitment to security and not a response to a specific breach.
Last month, OpenAI also landed a $200 million <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45965573/openai-wins-200-million-us-defense-contract-for-ai-warfare-capabilities-as-the-company-looks-to-raise-40-billion">defense contract to build</a> artificial intelligence tools for national security purposes.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46258669/tesla-made-2-76-billion-from-zev-credits-in-2024-in-us-but-trumps-tax-bill-just-killed-this-revenue-stream" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla Made $2.76 Billion From ZEV Credits In 2024 In US But Trump's Tax Bill Just Killed This Revenue Stream</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Svet foto / Shutterstock.com

Tech

PLTR

After DeepSeek Scandal, OpenAI Locks Down Its Labs With Fingerprints, Firewalls, Ex-Palantir Security Chief: Report

The Donald Trump administration is moving to significantly reshape the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, aiming to restrict student loan cancellation for employees of organizations deemed to be engaged in &#8220;illegal activities.&#8221;
What Happened: A draft proposal from the U.S. Education Department, set to take effect in July 2026, outlines new criteria that could impact a vast array of public and non-profit employers, sparking concerns among advocates.
The core of the proposed overhaul targets organizations involved in activities such as &#8220;aiding or abetting&#8221; federal immigration law violations, supporting foreign terrorist organizations, or violating the Civil Rights Act of 1964, particularly regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies.
Most controversially, the draft includes &#8220;engaging in the chemical and surgical castration or mutilation of children,&#8221; defining this to include hormone therapy or puberty blockers for individuals under 19. This directly targets entities providing gender-affirming care to transgender youths.
Regarding these significant policy changes, the U.S. Department of Education did not respond to an email seeking commentary sent by Benzinga.
Critics, however, fear the changes grant the Education Secretary subjective authority, potentially allowing entire hospital systems, state governments, or universities to be deemed ineligible for political reasons.
Betsy Mayotte, president of the Institute of Student Loan Advisors, viewed the proposal as &#8220;politically motivated and perhaps will be used as a tool for political punishment,&#8221; as <a href="https://apnews.com/article/student-loan-forgiveness-public-service-trump-145f6a07a477e5c82f4374bc89e1eea7">reported</a> by the Associated Press. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/07/46269226/stocks-just-hit-rare-golden-cross-for-1st-time-since-2023-heres-what-it-means-for-investors">Stocks Just Hit Rare Golden Cross For 1st Time Since 2023 — Here&#8217;s What It Means For Investors</a>
Why It Matters: The PSLF program currently allows government employees, teachers, firefighters, and many non-profit workers to have their federal student loans canceled after 10 years of payments.
President Trump, who ordered these changes in March, stated the program had &#8220;misdirected tax dollars into activist organizations.&#8221;
Beyond the specific definitions, the proposal also requires employers to certify that they do not engage in illegal activities, raising further concerns about administrative hurdles.
This move could block large numbers of borrowers from receiving forgiveness, effectively forcing them into new jobs or facing continued debt.
The formal proposal will undergo a public comment period before finalization, with its implementation expected in July 2026.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/forex/25/07/46272823/as-us-dollar-sinks-top-economist-warns-10-slide-could-spark-new-inflation-spike">As US Dollar Sinks, Top Economist Warns 10% Slide Could Spark New Inflation Spike</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Joey Sussman / Shutterstock.com

Education

Politics

Student Loan Forgiveness Faces New Restrictions Under Trump's PSLF Overhaul: Report

China&#8217;s exports to the United States have plunged over 43% year-over-year in May, representing a $15 billion drop in trade value, yet at the same time, China&#8217;s total exports have increased 4.8%, according to official figures, despite the trade and tariff-related turbulence.
What Happened: On Monday, in a post on X, The Kobeissi Letter shared the latest trade data coming in official Chinese sources, hinting at the rerouting of goods to circumvent the current U.S. trade and tariff regime.
The post notes that exports to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) rose 15% year-over-year during the month, while shipments to the European Union climbed 12%. Meanwhile, there was a 30% spike in Chinese exports routed through Vietnam, and a similar 25% increase via Indonesia. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/07/46264889/india-hits-back-at-us-plans-retaliatory-tariffs-at-wto">India Hits Back At US, Plans Retaliatory Tariffs at WTO</a>
These figures have since fueled speculations that China is shifting its trade strategy, rerouting exports through regional partners to maintain global market access while reducing direct exposure to U.S. tariffs.
This comes amid growing efforts made by the U.S. Government to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46241070/trumps-vietnam-trade-deal-with-40-tax-on-transshipments-may-result-in-chinese-backlash-say-economists-they-want-inflation">close potential backdoors</a> for Chinese goods. The recent trade deal with Vietnam, which involved a 40% tariff on rerouted goods, is largely aimed at the same, and is thus being seen as a &#8220;proxy trade war&#8221; with China.
<figure class="wp-block-embed aligncenter is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Is China dodging US tariffs? China&#39;s exports to the US fell -43% YoY in May, representing a $15 billion decline in trade value. However, the country's total exports jumped +4.8% during the same period, per official Chinese data. This comes as shipments to the Association of… <a href="https://t.co/qtWdnQAZNS">pic.twitter.com/qtWdnQAZNS</a>
&mdash; The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/1942313242455429551?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Why It Matters: Economists believe that President Donald Trump&#8217;s 40% <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46241070/trumps-vietnam-trade-deal-with-40-tax-on-transshipments-may-result-in-chinese-backlash-say-economists-they-want-inflation">tariff on rerouted goods</a> from Vietnam could warrant backlash from China, with economist&nbsp;Rana Sajedi saying that it might be seen as a direct challenge, leading to targeted trade measures. 
The U.S. has also been urging Vietnam to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/45949304/us-pressures-vietnam-to-cut-chinese-tech-dependency-amid-tariff-talks-report">reduce its reliance</a> on Chinese technologies that are used in the production of goods that are later exported. 
Experts have long viewed tariffs as an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/06/45869934/mpcc-co-ceo-on-container-feeder-market-trade-disruptions-and-growth-opportunities">opportunity for rerouting</a> and transshipment, rather than a threat. &#8220;During 2018-19 when similar tariffs were put into effect, cargo was rerouted through Southeast Asia, Mexico and Europe, and a similar pattern is emerging now,&#8221; says Moritz Fuhrmann, the Co-CEO of MPC Container Ships ASA (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MPZZF#OTC">MPZZF</a>).
Read More: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/07/46288472/japans-prime-minister-criticizes-trumps-tariff-decision-shigeru-ishiba-calls-move-truly-regrettable">Japan&#8217;s Prime Minister Criticizes Trump&#8217;s Tariff Decision: Shigeru Ishiba Calls Move &#8216;Truly Regrettable&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: miss.cabul / Shutterstock.com

MPZZF

Is China Dodging US Tariffs? Direct Exports To America Plunge 43% As Vietnam And Indonesia See Big Spurts: Report

<h3>Companies Reporting Before The Bell</h3>
<h3>Companies Reporting After The Bell</h3>
• Aehr Test System (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEHR#NASDAQ">AEHR</a>) is expected to report quarterly loss at $0.01 per share on revenue of $14.82 million. 
• Kura Sushi USA (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KRUS#NASDAQ">KRUS</a>) is expected to report quarterly loss at $0.01 per share on revenue of $72.04 million. 
• Saratoga Investment (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SAR#NYSE">SAR</a>) is projected to report quarterly earnings at $0.72 per share on revenue of $32.79 million. 
• Penguin Solutions (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PENG#NASDAQ">PENG</a>) is projected to report quarterly earnings at $0.33 per share on revenue of $330.82 million. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Earnings

AEHR

KRUS

Penguin Solutions, Inc. - Ordinary Shares

PENG

Earnings Scheduled For July 8, 2025

<a href="https://www.ft.com/content/3750419f-5473-4c11-9fed-bb072c683d68" title="https://www.ft.com/content/3750419f-5473-4c11-9fed-bb072c683d68">https://www.ft.com/content/3750419f-5473-4c11-9fed-bb072c683d68</a>

News

IPOs

Citigourp Global Markets 2% Protected Notes Linked To The Djia

Financial Times Reported Earlier. Shein Files For Hong Kong IPO To Pressure UK To Save London Listing

Financial Times Reported Earlier, Shein Files For Hong Kong IPO To Pressure UK Regulators To Save London Listing

Novartis today announced Coartem (artemether-lumefantrine) Baby has been approved by Swissmedic as the first malaria medicine for newborns and young infants. The new treatment, also known as Riamet Baby in some countries, was developed in collaboration with Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) to treat the potentially deadly mosquito-borne disease.

Novartis Earlier Announced It Received Approval For First Malaria Medicine For Newborn Babies And Young Infants

Pershing Square Capital Management, L.P., founded and led by the billionaire Bill Ackman, has a portfolio valued at $11.930 billion, which is concentrated in these four stocks as of the end of the first quarter of 2025.
What Happened: The hedge fund, with Ackman as its CEO, had 11 holdings as of the most recent reported quarterly period, which ended on May 15, highlighted in its 13F filing.
According to Pershing Square&#8217;s Net Asset Value (NAV) and performance report for June 2025, the fund&#8217;s portfolio had no short positions and most of its funds were invested in large-cap companies.
The portfolio was exposed to various sectors, including consumer products, consumer services, financials, leisure and hospitality, technology, and special purpose rights companies.
According to its 13F filings, the four major stock holdings in the foundation's portfolio made up at least two-thirds or 62% of the fund's holdings valued at $7.286 billion as of the first quarter of the ongoing calendar year.
<figure class="wp-block-table is-style-stripes"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Company</td>
<td>Value (as of March 31)</td>
<td>% Of Holdings (as of March 31)</td>
<td>Number Of Shares</td>
<td>Change From Dec. 31, 2024 (in %)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Uber Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NASDAQ">UBER</a>)</td>
<td>$2.207 billion</td>
<td>19%</td>
<td>30301161</td>
<td>New</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brookfield Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BN#NYSE">BN</a>)</td>
<td>$2.149 billion</td>
<td>18%</td>
<td>41004657</td>
<td>18%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Restaurant Brands International Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QSR#NYSE">QSR</a>)</td>
<td>$1.532 billion</td>
<td>13%</td>
<td>23000914</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Howard Hughes Holdings Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HHH#NYSE">HHH</a>)</td>
<td>$1.396 billion</td>
<td>12%</td>
<td>18852064</td>
<td>0%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Uber Technologies</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Pershing Square has freshly acquired 30.301 million shares of Uber, making it the hedge fund&#8217;s largest position at the end of the first quarter.</li>
<li>The stock has advanced 53.05% on a year-to-date basis and 10.97% in the last month.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Brookfield Corp.</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Ackman has been acquiring the shares of the Canadian alternative investment management company, Brookfield Corp., over the last year, with an 18% or 6.111 million shares added at the end of the first quarter.</li>
<li>Its businesses are spread across several segments, including real estate, renewable power facilities, and infrastructure.</li>
<li>The stock has grown 9.37% YTD and 7.42% in the last month.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Restaurant Brands International Inc.</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Holding 23 million shares, Ackman&#8217;s Pershing Square has held a stake in this company for over 10 years, since the fourth quarter of 2014.</li>
<li>The fund has made no change in its holding of the stock over the last three quarters. </li>
<li>Restaurant Brands&#8217; stock has advanced 3.51% YTD and declined by 2.71% in the last month.</li>
</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Howard Hughes Holdings Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HHH#NYSE">HHH</a>)</h2>
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Pershing Square owns 12% or 18.852 million shares of the real estate development and management company.</li>
<li>Ackman also serves as the executive chairman of the company&#8217;s board with an agenda to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45199902/bill-ackman-strikes-deal-to-form-mini-version-of-berkshire-hathaway-a-free-money-generating-company-he-wouldnt-bet-against">transform Howard Hughes</a> into a diversified holding company like Berkshire Hathaway Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>) (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>).</li>
<li>The stock has declined 9.38% YTD and 0.68% over the last month.</li>
</ul>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/forex/25/07/46272823/as-us-dollar-sinks-top-economist-warns-10-slide-could-spark-new-inflation-spike">As US Dollar Sinks, Top Economist Warns 10% Slide Could Spark New Inflation Spike</a>
Why It Matters: Apart from holding 62% of the aforementioned companies, Pershing Square&#8217;s other investments also includes Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CMG#NYSE">CMG</a>), Canadian Pacific Kansas City Ltd. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CP#NYSE">CP</a>), Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>), and Hilton Hotels Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HLT#NYSE">HLT</a>), with holdings in single digits ranging from 5.7% to 9.1%.
Along with less than 1% portfolio holdings in Seaport Entertainment Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SEG#NYSE">SEG</a>) and Hertz Global Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HTZ#NASDAQ">HTZ</a>).
Price Action: The SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>) and Invesco QQQ Trust ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/QQQ#NASDAQ">QQQ</a>), which track the S&amp;P 500 index and Nasdaq 100 index, respectively, declined on Monday. The SPY was down 0.75% at $620.68, while the QQQ also declined 0.75% to $552.03, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pr</a>o data.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/07/46269226/stocks-just-hit-rare-golden-cross-for-1st-time-since-2023-heres-what-it-means-for-investors">Stocks Just Hit Rare Golden Cross For 1st Time Since 2023 — Here&#8217;s What It Means For Investors</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: T. Schneider / Shutterstock.com

Hedge Funds

GOOG

GOOGL

UBER

Bill Ackman Bets Over 60% Of Pershing Square's Portfolio In These 4 Stocks: UBER, HHH And More

Chinese officials have reportedly cooled on&nbsp;Elon Musk, the CEO of&nbsp;Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), as a potential geopolitical asset due to his public fallout with President&nbsp;Donald Trump.
What Happened: In January, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng met with Musk in Washington, expressing Beijing&#8217;s hope that Musk would play a constructive role in U.S.-China relations, <a href="https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/tesla-china-elon-musk-0f38940e?st=3kgiF7&amp;reflink=article_copyURL_share">according</a> to The Wall Street Journal. However, Musk&#8217;s response was reportedly lukewarm and due to his now strained relationship with Trump, Beijing no longer sees Musk as a valuable &#8220;geopolitical asset&#8221; and is unlikely to publicly engage with him.
One of the sources, who consults with Chinese officials, stated, &#8220;Tesla remains important for China&#8230;but&nbsp;for authorities, helping domestic companies&nbsp;still matters more.&#8221; This is a significant setback for Musk, who has been focusing on Tesla&#8217;s operations in China, its second-largest market by revenue.
Nevertheless, China remains important for Tesla, especially as its sales in the U.S. and Europe have declined, partly due to Musk&#8217;s past ties with Trump. China also serves as a crucial testing hub for technologies such as Full Self-Driving (FSD) and autonomous taxis, which are among Musk&#8217;s top priorities.
SEE ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46282859/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-dip-slightly-while-xrp-holds-firm-on-tariff-driven-monday" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Dip Slightly While XRP Holds Firm On Tariff-Driven Monday &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Why It Matters: Musk&#8217;s relationship with China is crucial for Tesla&#8217;s future. Despite the recent cooling of Musk&#8217;s geopolitical value, Tesla&#8217;s sales in China have seen a rise. In June, Tesla saw a&nbsp;3.7% year-over-year <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46239731/elon-musks-tesla-sales-surge-3-7-in-china-as-other-markets-cool">increase in sales&nbsp;</a>in the Chinese domestic market, amid declining sales in other markets. 
However, Tesla continues to face stiff competition from local rivals like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46215206/tesla-rival-byd-reports-2025s-best-selling-month-in-june-amid-exports-surge">BYD</a> (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BYDFF#OTC">BYDFF</a>), which reported its best sales performance of 2025 in June.
Despite this, Musk has found an unlikely source of support in Chinese netizens. Amid his feud with Trump, Chinese social media users have been&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/07/46252278/after-trump-warns-elon-musk-to-close-up-shop-china-rallies-behind-worlds-richest-man-theres-no-need">rallying behind Musk</a>, hailing his stance against Trump. However, the recent cooling of Musk&#8217;s geopolitical value in China could pose a significant challenge for Tesla&#8217;s future in the country.
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46268640/china-expresses-concern-to-eu-over-russias-potential-defeat-in-ukraine-conflict-amid-fears-that-tru" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">China Expresses Concern To EU Over Russia&#8217;s Potential Defeat In Ukraine Conflict Amid Fears That Trump Would Do &#8216;This&#8217;: Report</a></li>
</ul>
 Image via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

BYDFF

TSLA

Beijing Rejects Elon Musk As A 'Geopolitical Asset': Lukewarm Response To Chinese Diplomatic Overreach, Trump Feud Reportedly Diminishes Musk's Value

Seasoned investor&nbsp;Cathie Wood&nbsp;on Monday praised an analyst from Ark Invest&#8217;s Digital Assets team for their successful take on Circle Internet Group, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRL#NYSE">CRL</a>) from a month ago.
What Happened:&nbsp;Wood took to X to welcome Raye Hadi, the new member of the cryptocurrency research team, and praised their immediate impact, notably their work on Circle, the issuer of USDC (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">USDC</a>) stablecoin.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">We are thrilled that you have joined the ARK team, <a href="https://twitter.com/rhadiARK?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rhadiARK</a>. You hit the ground running with <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24CRCL&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$CRCL</a>, the first of many successes likely in the years ahead! <a href="https://t.co/D79FpqGQEA">https://t.co/D79FpqGQEA</a>
&mdash; Cathie Wood (@CathieDWood) <a href="https://twitter.com/CathieDWood/status/1942332851841614311?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Hadi, along with Lorenzo Valiente. Director of Research at Ark Invest, <a href="https://www.ark-invest.com/newsletters/issue-466">wrote</a> on Circle&#8217;s successful Wall Street launch last month, with shares <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/45852973/circle-ipo-success-suggests-markets-open-to-new-listings-especially-from-crypto-businesses-says-spac-king-chamath-palihapitiya">exploding 168%</a> from the IPO price on debut.
&#8220;Circle's successful IPO could inspire more crypto-native firms to pursue public listings, further highlighting the sector's role as an innovator in the global financial infrastructure space,&#8221; the blog post read.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/25/07/46288196/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-dip-on-macro-jitters-from-trumps-japan-south-korea-tariffs-analyst-says-btc-6-months-away-from-top-if-history-repeats" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Dip On Macro Jitters From Trump&#8217;s Japan, South Korea Tariffs: Analyst Says BTC 6 Months Away From Top If History Repeats</a>
Why It Matters: Circle began June with an<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/ipos/25/06/45819104/cathie-wood-calls-circles-ipo-an-amazing-debut"> IPO priced at $31 per share</a>. The stock opened for trading on the New York Stock Exchange at $69 per share and has continued to see strong momentum.
CRCL exploded to $240 apiece by June 20, but has since retreated. Nonetheless, it has<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/07/46281595/circle-internet-group-st[%E2%80%A6]rming-the-sp-500-over-the-past-month-whats-driving-the-rally"> rallied over 92%</a> during the past month of trading, surpassing the S&amp;P 500.
Wood deemed the IPO&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/ipos/25/06/45819104/cathie-wood-calls-circles-ipo-an-amazing-debut" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">an "amazing debut,"</a>&nbsp;with her firm&nbsp;ARK Invest&nbsp;bagging hundreds of millions worth of the company's shares immediately. 
As of this writing, the ARK Fintech Innovation ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKF#BATS">ARKF</a>), ARK Innovation ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKK#BATS">ARKK</a>) and ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKW#BATS">ARKW</a>) held a total of $562.7 million worth of Circle shares.
Price Action:&nbsp; Shares of Circle were down 0.70% in after-hours trading after closing 9.90% higher at $207.46&nbsp; during Monday&#8217;s regular trading session, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA.." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from Benzinga Pro</a>.
Are you looking for cryptocurrency-linked stocks for your portfolio? Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings</a>&nbsp;to filter out the best performers on key measures such as Momentum, Growth, and Quality.
Read Next:&nbsp;
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46284752/coreweave-just-valued-core-scientific-like-its-2021-again">CoreWeave Just Valued Core Scientific Like It&#8217;s 2021 Again</a></li>
</ul>
Photo Courtesy: PJ McDonnell on Shutterstock.com
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/apis?utm_source=benzinga.com&amp;utm_campaign=article-bottom" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"></a>

Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

Markets

$USDC

ARKF

ARKK

ARKW

CRCL

Circle Shares Surge 92% Since NYSE Debut — Cathie Wood Highlights Ark's Successful Take On Stablecoin Issuer's IPO

Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) experienced a sharp drop in sales in the Chinese domestic car market during the week of June 30 to July 6, 2025.
Check out the current price of <a href="https://benzinga.com/quote/tsla">TSLA stock here</a>.
What Happened: The EV giant recorded 5,010 new insured registrations in China, according to data compiled by influencer Roland Pircher on social media platform X on Tuesday.
The registrations this week dropped 75.8% from the preceding week's 20.7K registrations. Tesla sales are down 22.9% from the same time last year. However, the sales are up over 38% compared to Q2 2025.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">In China, 5010 Tesla insurance registrations were reported for the week of June 30 to July 6. &#x1f1e8;&#x1f1f3; The week is down 75.8% from last week and -22.9% year-over-year. The quarter is +38.8% QoQ and -22.9% YoY. YTD is at -5.3% YoY. <a href="https://t.co/DWHR5A5Mpp">pic.twitter.com/DWHR5A5Mpp</a>
&mdash; Roland Pircher (@piloly) <a href="https://twitter.com/piloly/status/1942442683613532254?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Why It Matters: The news comes after Tesla recorded a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46239998/dan-ives-hails-teslas-better-than-expected-q2-deliveries-says-fireworks-come-early-for-elon-musk-led-ev-giant">better-than-estimated Q2</a> performance, with the EV giant delivering over 384,122 vehicles in the quarter. The deliveries were largely driven by the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.
Tesla sales also picked up<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46257617/elon-musk-led-tesla-sales-surge-12-in-the-uk-during-june-q2-deliveries-beat-analyst-estimates"> over 12% in the UK</a>, with Elon Musk's company delivering over 7,189 units during Q2 2025, according to sales data released recently.
However, Tesla has had to deal with troubles stemming from Musk's political ambitions with the "America First" party as the company stock fell over 7% in 24 hours. The move has been <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46288776/ross-gerber-slams-joke-tesla-board-as-elon-musk-returns-to-politics-dan-ives-says-musk-cannot-start-own-political-party-and-remain-ceo">criticized by experts</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="199" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/08024338/TSLA-JUL-8-2025-1-1024x199.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-975880" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/08024338/TSLA-JUL-8-2025-1-1024x199.jpg 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/08024338/TSLA-JUL-8-2025-1-300x58.jpg 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/08024338/TSLA-JUL-8-2025-1-768x149.jpg 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/08024338/TSLA-JUL-8-2025-1-1536x298.jpg 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/08024338/TSLA-JUL-8-2025-1.jpg 1552w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
Tesla offers satisfactory Momentum and Quality while scoring well on the Growth metric. However, the stock offers poor Value. For more such insights, sign up for<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"> Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings</a> today!
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Future Of Mobility coverage by<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility"> following this link.</a>
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46268694/elon-musks-america-party-plans-conflict-with-his-full-time-responsibilities-as-tesla-ceo-says-former-doge-advisor">Elon Musk&#8217;s America Party Plans &#8216;Conflict&#8217; With His Full-Time Responsibilities As Tesla CEO, Says Former DOGE Advisor</a></li>
</ul>
Photo courtesy: Tada Images / Shutterstock.com

Tesla China Sales Plunge Over 75% In First Week Of July Despite Strong Q2 Deliveries

Donald Trump's much-touted plan to sell $5 million "gold card" visas to the ultra-wealthy may never leave the runway, immigration lawyers and policy analysts say.
What Happened: The proposal would create a brand-new residency class for investors willing to wire in billions, but experts note a president cannot invent a visa on his own, according to a <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2025/07/07/trump-gold-card-visa-immigration/">report</a> by The Washington Post. Only Congress can add categories to the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Since February, Trump has waved a laminated prototype at reporters, promised an "immediate rollout," and opened a TrumpCard.gov wait list that Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick says has attracted <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/events/25/06/45967070/howard-lutnick-says-nearly-70000-register-for-5-million-trump-card-visa-as-us-eyes-1-trillion-windfall-from-premium-immigration-plan">nearly 70,000 names</a>. The White House claims the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44237846/trump-proposes-special-a-gold-card-for-wealthy-immigrants-that-costs-5-million-says-selling-enough-could-wipe-out-americas-national-debt">fees could wipe out</a> the $1.3 trillion annual deficit and, eventually, the entire national debt.
But no bill has surfaced on Capitol Hill, and Republican leaders who are already skeptical of expanded immigration paths show "zero appetite" for the idea, said Alex Nowrasteh of the Cato Institute.
See also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46289626/ron-desantis-warns-elon-musk-the-america-party-could-hand-congress-to-democrats-dont-want-to-see-that-happen">Ron DeSantis Warns Elon Musk The &#8216;America Party&#8217; Could Hand Congress To Democrats: &#8216;Don&#8217;t Want To See That Happen&#8217;</a>
Why It Matters: Supreme Court precedent gives Congress "plenary power" over visas, former DHS counsel George Fishman noted. "I'm very dubious it can be done without an act of Congress."
Critics also warn of lawsuits from would-be EB-5 investors, who now wait years after putting in at least $800,000. Former USCIS adviser Doug Rand said opponents will almost certainly challenge any fast-lane plan for newcomers and almost certainly defeat it.
Billionaire Trump donor John Paulson originally proposed the concept as a debt reduction mechanism for America's $36 trillion burden. The program represents a significant shift in targeting high-net-worth individuals. Billionaire Mark Cuban previously <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44070799/mark-cuban-supports-trumps-new-gold-card-scheme-if-sold-to-corporations-for-employee-citizenship-have-a-look-at-the-listed-companies-with-most-number-of-immigrants">supported the concept</a> provided corporations buy cards for high-earning employees, while Elon <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44519944/elons-building-me-the-software-right-now-commerce-secretary-howard-lutnick-says-he-sold-1k-trump-cards-for-5m-each-in-one-day">Musk was involved</a> in developing the application software.
Photo Courtesy: Shutterstock AI
Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/25/07/46289599/trump-inaugural-donor-loses-250000-in-crypto-scam-by-steve-witkoff-impersonator-fbi-recovers-over-40000">Trump Inaugural Donor Loses $250,000 In Crypto Scam By Steve Witkoff Impersonator, FBI Recovers Over $40,000</a>

Legal

No Fast Lane For The Rich? Lawyers Say Trump's $5 Million 'Gold Card' Visa Can't Fly Without New Law

Zscaler Launches Zero Trust Cellular Platform To Secure IoT and OT Devices Using Just A SIM—No VPN Or Software Required

<ul>
<li>BioSig Technologies, Inc. &nbsp;which recently merged with Streamex Exchange Corporation ("Streamex") to become one of largest public holders of gold bullion.</li>
<li>Streamex' proprietary real-world asset (the "RWA") platform will bring the approx. $142 trillion commodities market on the blockchain powered by Streamex &amp; Solana.</li>
<li>The transaction was led by:
<ul>
<li>Cantor Fitzgerald &amp; Co., Clear Street LLC and Needham &amp; Company, LLC acting as placement agents; and</li>
<li>CIBC World Markets acting as Strategic Advisor to the BSGM board of directors and management.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>

BSGM

Reported Earlier, BioSig And Streamex Announce Up To $1.1B In Growth Financing To Launch Gold-Backed Treasury Strategy And RWA Tokenization Platform

Reported Earlier, Blue Owl Partners With Australia's Koda Capital To Bring OCIC-A Private Credit Income Strategy To Financial Advisors And Clients

Reported Earlier, SunLink Health Systems Hit With NYSE Deficiency Notice For Failing To Hold Annual Shareholder Meeting For Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2025

AAPG

Reported Earlier, Ascentage Pharma Appoints Dr. Veet Misra As CFO And Eric Huang As SVP Of Global Corporate Development And Finance

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis says Elon Musk should drop his plan for a new "America Party" and instead use his money and clout to force fiscal reforms inside the GOP.
What Happened: "I think Washington needs to be overhauled 100%, but I just don't think a third party is going to do it," DeSantis <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/07/07/trump-musk-feud-desantis-advice-00441519">told</a> reporters after an education event on Monday, according to Politico.
DeSantis, who launched his own 2024 presidential bid in a glitch-filled event with Musk, warned that a third-party candidate would likely result in the Democrats winning all the competitive Senate and House races. &#8220;I'm a Republican. I don't want to see that happen," he said.
He urged Musk to fund state drives for a balanced-budget amendment and congressional term limits, saying the billionaire could have a "monumental impact" by persuading at least 34 legislatures to convene a constitutional convention.
See also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46288500/elon-musk-may-be-callous-insensitive-and-extremely-cruel-but-black-swan-author-nassim-taleb-is-praying-for-his-safety-amid-rift-with-trump">Elon Musk May Be Callous, Insensitive And &#8216;Extremely Cruel&#8217; But &#8216;Black Swan&#8217; Author Nassim Taleb Is Praying For His Safety Amid Rift With Trump</a>
Musk <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46265725/elon-musk-announces-formation-of-america-party-emerges-in-wake-of-donald-trumps-historic-spending-bill">unveiled the America Party</a> over the weekend after breaking with President Donald Trump over the mammoth "One Big Beautiful Bill," a tax-and-spending package the Tesla chief calls wasteful. He argues the bill will deepen the deficit and has vowed to bankroll primary challenges against Republicans who backed it.
Why It Matters: DeSantis has neither praised nor condemned the megabill, despite some GOP governors lobbying for its passage. Earlier, he objected to the proposed moratorium on state AI regulations, and negotiators removed it from the final text.
Still, he echoed Musk's complaint that many Republicans "run saying there's out-of-control spending … and they never do it." The governor's counsel comes amid his own fragile reconciliation with Trump after last year's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/01/36710200/trump-drops-desanctimonious-nickname-for-ron-desantis-after-florida-governor-exits-2024-presidential">bruising primary feud</a>.
While analysts believe that the Musk-Trump rift and Musk's new party could split the right, DeSantis says structural fixes will rein in Washington. "You have to change the incentives and structures up there. It's within our grasp to do it," he says.
Read next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46288776/ross-gerber-slams-joke-tesla-board-as-elon-musk-returns-to-politics-dan-ives-says-musk-cannot-start-own-political-party-and-remain-ceo">Ross Gerber Slams &#8216;Joke&#8217; Tesla Board As Elon Musk Returns To Politics, Dan Ives Says Musk Cannot Start Own Political Party &#8216;And Remain CEO&#8217;</a>
Photo Courtesy: Andrew Cline on Shutterstock.com

Ron DeSantis Warns Elon Musk The 'America Party' Could Hand Congress To Democrats: 'Don't Want To See That Happen'

On Monday, Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>) co-founder Joe Lonsdale urged a tech-driven transformation of the Food and Drug Administration, warning that bureaucratic inertia is putting the U.S. behind <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44107297/china-based-biotech-beigene-scores-fda-approval-for-tevimbra-chemo-combo-for-untreated-patients-with-esophageal-cancer">China in the biotech race</a>.
What Happened: In a blog post, Lonsdale said the FDA's current systems are "sluggish" and outdated, slowing drug approvals and hampering innovation.
To counter this, he announced that the Abundance Institute, in partnership with Stand Together, is raising $4 million to embed 15–20 AI-native engineers, data scientists and product leaders inside the FDA under the Intergovernmental Personnel Act.
"These leaders will remain Abundance employees," Lonsdale said, "but&#8230; wire modern data pipes into legacy silos and automate the mind-numbing paperwork that turns months into years."
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/fda/25/06/45945282/sarepta-therapeutics-stock-plummets-over-40-on-second-fatal-case-linked-to-its-gene-therapy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sarepta Therapeutics Stock Plummets Over 40% On Second Fatal Case Linked To Its Gene Therapy</a>
He compared the effort to special forces units in the military, saying innovation in the defense world happens because nimble, elite special forces teams try key new technology long before adoption by larger forces takes place.
Lonsdale warned the U.S. risks losing global biotech leadership to China, which "is plowing ahead with CRISPR gene therapies and advanced cell therapies," due to fewer regulatory constraints.
"If we let that gap widen," he said, "we will wake up one morning and discover that most of our children's drugs are made in, and controlled by, China."
"Let's boldly push through narrower AI wins that save lives, then expand upon those wins," he concluded, adding, "Let's make the FDA great again."
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">1/ China is racing to dominate the future of medicine. We're bogged down in bureaucracy. That's why friends and I are donating to launch a "special forces" team of elite engineers inside the FDA &#8212; modeled after how the DoD drives innovation. It's time to move faster on cures!
&mdash; Joe Lonsdale (@JTLonsdale) <a href="https://twitter.com/JTLonsdale/status/1942289902252826903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Why It's Important: Last month, the U.S. FDA launched the Commissioner&#8217;s National Priority Voucher (CNPV) program to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/fda/25/06/45982666/fda-introduces-tumor-board-style-reviews-for-faster-drug-decisions">help drug developers</a> fast-track new treatments that align with U.S. national priorities.
The voucher lets companies cut FDA review times from the usual 10–12 months to just 1–2 months by using a new team-based, "tumor board-style" review process with multidisciplinary experts.
The program allows for possible accelerated approval if the product meets requirements.
During the same month, the FDA said it is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/fda/25/06/46101643/did-the-fda-make-a-mistake-sareptas-elevidys-approval-under-scrutiny">investigating reports</a> of fatal acute liver failure linked to Sarepta Therapeutics' (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRPT#NASDAQ">SRPT</a>) gene therapy Elevidys, used to treat Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in non-ambulatory boys.
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46258669/tesla-made-2-76-billion-from-zev-credits-in-2024-in-us-but-trumps-tax-bill-just-killed-this-revenue-stream" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla Made $2.76 Billion From ZEV Credits In 2024 In US But Trump&#8217;s Tax Bill Just Killed This Revenue Stream</a></li>
</ul>
Photo Courtesy: Tada Images on Shutterstock.com
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Health Care

SRPT

Palantir Co-Founder Joe Lonsdale Wants A FDA Overhaul With Special Forces-Style AI Team Because China Is Racing To Outpace US In Biotech

A donor to the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee was reportedly defrauded of $250,300 in cryptocurrency. The FBI has recovered $40,300 of the stolen amount, which is now involved in a civil forfeiture case.
What Happened:&nbsp;The victim received an email on Christmas Eve 2024, which appeared to be from Steve Witkoff, co-chair of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee. Believing it to be legitimate, the victim transferred 250,300 USDT.ETH—a dollar-pegged stablecoin on the Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) blockchain—to a cryptocurrency wallet controlled by a scammer later traced to Nigeria.
The funds were reportedly laundered within just two hours through multiple wallets, complicating recovery efforts. However, despite the intricate nature of the blockchain transactions, the FBI&#8217;s Washington Field Office managed to trace and recover $40,300 of the stolen cryptocurrency using advanced blockchain analysis.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro&#8216;s office has filed a civil forfeiture complaint seeking to recover the remaining $210,000. The filing underscores the critical need to verify recipient information before initiating transfers—particularly as cryptocurrency plays a growing role in political fundraising and charitable donations.
SEE ALSO: <a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46272572/scottie-pippen-is-watching-bitcoin-xrp-dogecoin-and-what-else" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Scottie Pippen Is Watching Bitcoin, XRP, Dogecoin&#8230;And What Else? </a>
Why It Matters:&nbsp;The incident highlights the changing strategies of cybercriminals and the critical need for caution when managing digital assets. This comes in the wake of the U.S. Department of Justice filing&nbsp;a civil forfeiture complaint to&nbsp;claim over $225 million in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46002825/us-seizes-225-million-in-cryptocurrency-tied-to-global-investment-fraud-network">cryptocurrency&nbsp;allegedly</a> connected to international investment fraud schemes. This marked the largest crypto seizure to date involving so-called &#8220;confidence scams.&#8221;
Additionally, crypto hacks and exploits have surged to record levels in the first half of 2025, with total losses exceeding $2.1 billion across at least 75 incidents, according to blockchain intelligence firm TRM Labs. The largest single event was the $1.5 billion hack of Dubai-based crypto exchange Bybit in February, which TRM Labs attributes <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/06/46140769/north-korean-hackers-top-crypto-exploits-list-but-another-state-may-surprise-you">to North Korea</a>. This highlights the increasing need for vigilance and security in the cryptocurrency space.
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>READ MORE:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/25/07/46288739/trump-memecoin-set-to-launch-on-tron-network-founded-by-chinese-born-billionaire-who-purchased-banana-duct-taped-to-wall-for-6-million" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Memecoin Set To Launch On Tron Network Founded By Chinese-Born Billionaire Who Purchased Banana Duct-Taped To Wall For $6 Million &#8211; Benzinga</a></li>
</ul>
 Image via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

$ETH

Trump Inaugural Donor Loses $250,000 In Crypto Scam By Steve Witkoff Impersonator, FBI Recovers Over $40,000

Press Releases

Aquestive Therapeutics Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results and Provides Business Update

Aquestive Therapeutics Announces Positive Topline PK Results from its Pediatric Study and Completes the NDA Submission for Anaphylm™ (epinephrine) Sublingual Film

Aquestive Therapeutics to Participate in Piper Sandler Spring Biopharma Symposium

Aquestive Therapeutics to Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results and Recent Business Highlights on May 12 and Host Conference Call on May 13 at 8:00 a.m. ET

Aquestive Therapeutics to Participate in Citizens Life Sciences Conference

Aquestive Therapeutics Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results and Provides Business Update

Aquestive Therapeutics Announces FDA Acceptance of New Drug Application and PDUFA Date for Anaphylm™ for the Treatment of Severe Allergic Reactions

Aquestive Therapeutics to Present Positive Data from Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Studies of Anaphylm™ (epinephrine) Sublingual Film at the CFAAR Food Allergy Summit

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Aquestive Therapeutics

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PARTENAIRE / CONTRIBUTEUR

BENZINGA MONDIAL