Dernières nouvelles pour BlackRock (NYSE:BLK) Stock

BlackRock

BlackRock is the largest asset manager in the world, with $11.475 trillion in assets under management at the end of September 2024. Its product mix is fairly diverse, with 55% of managed assets in equity strategies, 26% in fixed income, 9% in multi-asset classes, 7% in money market funds, and 3% in alternatives. Passive strategies account for around two thirds of long-term AUM, with the company's ETF platform maintaining a leading market share domestically and on a global basis. Product distribution is weighted more toward institutional clients, which by our calculations account for around 80% of AUM. BlackRock is geographically diverse, with clients in more than 100 countries and more than one third of managed assets coming from investors domiciled outside the US and Canada.

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BlackRock (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) CEO Larry Fink raised serious concerns about the long-term health of the U.S. economy, warning that unchecked national debt and growing fiscal deficits could undermine the dollar's dominance as the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44499889/bitcoin-is-fulfilling-its-destiny-as-world-reserve-currency-says-bitcoin-whale-trace-mayer">world's reserve currency</a>.
What Happened: In his annual letter to shareholders <a href="https://www.blackrock.com/corporate/literature/presentation/larry-fink-annual-chairmans-letter.pdf">released</a> on Monday, he cautioned that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44560290/trump-family-to-dive-into-bitcoin-mining-after-defi-meme-coin-projects">digital assets like Bitcoin</a> (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) may emerge as a viable alternative if the government fails to rein in spending.
"The dollar's position as the global reserve currency is not guaranteed," Fink wrote. 
He pointed to a troubling trend: since 1989, when the national debt clock first went up in Times Square, U.S. debt has expanded at triple the rate of economic growth. 
He projected that interest payments on government debt will exceed $952 billion this year, surpassing defense spending for the first time.
If this trajectory isn't corrected, Fink warned that by the end of the decade, every dollar of federal revenue will be consumed by mandatory spending and debt service—pushing the nation into a state of perpetual deficit.
While acknowledging the disruptive potential of decentralized finance, Fink cautioned that digital innovation could weaken America's economic standing if Bitcoin begins to be seen as a safer store of value than the dollar. 
"I'm not against digital assets," he noted.
"Decentralized finance is transformative—making markets more efficient and transparent—but it could also threaten U.S. financial supremacy."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44558783/mara-holdings-joins-gamestop-metaplanet-in-bitcoin-reserve-push-with-2-billion-stock-sale">MARA Holdings Joins GameStop, Metaplanet In Bitcoin Reserve Push With $2 Billion Stock Sale</a>
Highlighting BlackRock's growing crypto footprint, Fink spotlighted the success of its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-spot-bitcoin-etfs">U.S. spot Bitcoin ETF</a>, (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBIT#NASDAQ">IBIT</a>), which has become the largest ETF debut in history.
Since its launch, IBIT has grown to more than $50 billion in assets under management, attracting $37.4 billion in net inflows during 2024 alone.
This puts it far ahead of rivals like Fidelity's (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FBTC#NASDAQ">FBTC</a>), which has drawn $11.5 billion to date, according to data from The Block.
IBIT has also emerged as the third-largest asset gatherer across the <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44359400/bitcoin-etfs-see-record-5-5-billion-in-outflows-in-5-weeks-as-tariff-turbulence-looms">entire ETF industry</a>—trailing only behind the dominant S&amp;P 500 funds.
Notably, over half its demand came from retail investors, and three-quarters of those investing had never previously bought an iShares product, indicating a broadening investor base. 
BlackRock has since extended its Bitcoin investment offerings to markets in Canada and Europe.
Fink also revisited an earlier estimate he made, suggesting that if global investors began allocating 2% to 5% of their portfolios to Bitcoin, its price could someday reach $700,000.
What&#8217;s Next: Looking beyond Bitcoin, Fink emphasized the transformative <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44456074/tokenization-will-merge-crypto-and-equities-bernstein">power of tokenization</a>—turning real-world assets like bonds, real estate, or equities into digital tokens tradable on a blockchain.
He likened the shift to the leap from postal services to email, suggesting this technological leap could fundamentally change how financial markets operate.
"Every asset can be tokenized," Fink said. "If that happens, investing will be revolutionized. Markets would never need to close. Settlements would be instantaneous. And trillions tied up in clearing delays could be put back to work immediately, accelerating economic growth."
He argued that tokenization has the potential to make investing more inclusive by enabling fractional ownership, faster shareholder voting, and broader access to high-yield assets—benefiting everyday investors, not just the ultra-wealthy.
Fink concluded his letter by reflecting on the role of financial markets in promoting global prosperity. 
While he acknowledged the current economic uncertainty, he reminded investors that history shows resilience often prevails. 
"Periods of doubt are nothing new," he wrote. "But like before, innovation and human adaptability will drive long-term economic stability."
Read Next: 
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Image: Shutterstock

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BlackRock CEO Larry Fink Says Bitcoin Can Rival Dollar As Global Reserve Currency

BlackRock (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) CEO Larry Fink is sounding the alarm on what he sees as a looming retirement crisis in the U.S., and he says younger generations have every right to feel uneasy about the future.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A System That Works for the Few</h2>
In a recent interview with <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/12/business/video/larry-fink-market-pullback-us-economy-blackrock-ceo-tausche-cnc-digvid">CNN</a>, Fink said plainly: &#8220;Retirement is not that bad of a problem for the top Fortune 500 companies.&#8221; Employees at large corporations, he explained, are often well-supported with retirement planning and benefits. But that level of support rarely extends to everyone else. &#8220;We refuse to talk about how do we get more broadening of our economy with more Americans participating in that,&#8221; he said. &#8220;This has to be considered a national priority and a national promise to all Americans.&#8221;
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Fink, whose firm oversees $11.6 trillion in assets, has long warned about the lack of retirement preparedness. That concern comes from both professional and personal experience. In his annual <a href="https://www.blackrock.com/corporate/investor-relations/larry-fink-annual-chairmans-letter">letter</a> to BlackRock shareholders, Fink shared a story about reviewing his parents&#8217; finances after they passed away:
&#8220;My mom taught English at the local state college, and my dad owned a shoe store. They were never in the top tax bracket.&#8221; When Fink and his brother finished going over their parents' estate after they died, they learned why they had more than expected: investments.
&#8220;My dad had always been an enthusiastic investor&#8230; because he knew that whatever money he put in the bond or stock markets would likely grow faster than in the bank. And he was right.&#8221;
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Fink said this experience reminded him why he co-founded BlackRock: to help people retire with dignity through better access to capital markets. &#8220;We believed participating in [capital] markets was going to be crucial for people who wanted to retire comfortably and financially secure.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Younger Generations Are Worried—For Good Reason</h2>
In the letter, Fink called out a growing generational divide. &#8220;It's no wonder younger generations, Millennials and Gen Z, are so <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41555075/millennials-and-gen-z-rely-on-parents-for-financial-support-survey-finds-its-costing-them-their-">economically anxious</a>,&#8221; he wrote. &#8220;They believe my generation—the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/40987007/baby-boomers-are-the-richest-generation-ever-but-being-pretty-stingy-with-their-money-and-younge">baby boomers</a>—have focused on their own financial well-being to the detriment of who comes next. And in the case of retirement, they're right.&#8221;
He even questioned whether the standard retirement age of 65 still makes sense and suggested older generations might need to work longer to help restore financial trust with younger Americans.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Missing Out on the System Entirely</h2>
Millions of workers—including gig workers, restaurant staff and farmers—lack access to employer-sponsored retirement plans. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44427073/larry-fink-says-the-u-s-needs-a-social-security-plan-where-every-american-can-grow-with-our-economy">At a BlackRock retirement summit in Washington in February, Fink said</a>, &#8220;We have a plan called Social Security that doesn&#8217;t grow with the economy. If we create a plan that every American can grow with our economy, they&#8217;re going to feel more attached to our economy.&#8221;
He stopped short of endorsing full privatization of Social Security but said allowing people to invest more directly in the market could help. Referencing a past proposal by President George W. Bush to partially privatize Social Security, Fink said that if it had been implemented, Americans could have seen their retirement savings grow fourfold.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Australia&#8217;s Model and the Spending Puzzle</h2>
Fink <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44485672/billionaire-blackrock-ceo-larry-fink-says-retirement-isnt-a-problem-for-fortune-500-workers-but-we-refuse-to-talk-about-everyone-else">pointed to Australia&#8217;s retirement system</a>, where employers have been contributing to worker retirement accounts since 1992—regardless of job type. Australia now has the fourth-largest retirement system in the world, despite being 54th in population. Fink said the U.S. should study this approach.
He also stressed that saving is only half the problem. Spending in retirement is another major issue. A BlackRock study found that even after 20 years in retirement, the average retiree still had 80% of their pre-retirement savings. Fink calls it the &#8220;retirement paradox&#8221;: people are afraid to spend what they've saved.
To address this, BlackRock created LifePath Paycheck, a tool that turns 401(k) savings into a predictable monthly income, similar to a pension.
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BlackRock CEO Larry Fink Says, 'No Wonder Millennials And Gen Z Are Economically Anxious.' They Blame Boomers For Putting Themselves First

Value stocks have flipped the market script on their growth counterparts so far this year, with the Russell 1000 Value Index outperforming the Russell 1000 Growth Index by 11% in just three short months.
The iShares Russell 1000 Value ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWD#NYSE">IWD</a>), which tracks the Russell 1000 Value, and the iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWF#NYSE">IWF</a>) for the Russell 1000 Growth, similarly have a little under 10% gap this year so far, in favor of the value fund.
The last time this happened was during the bear market of 2022, when rising rates, persistent inflation, and unjustifiably high valuations sent investors scurrying for safer options to park their funds. In 2024, however, growth stocks regained their momentum, aided by rate cuts and strong momentum across tech and AI stocks.
Now, as chaos reigns on Wall Street, with tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and even <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44554304/goldman-sachs-raises-us-recession-risk-to-35-expects-inflation-at-3-5-in-2025-amid-tariff-uncertainties-economist-mohamed-el-erian-highlights-stagflationary-twist">fresh recessionary fears</a> cropping up, investors are once again finding safety in value. But, is this here to stay, or just a fleeting trend that is waiting to turn around?
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Value Stocks Are More Resilient?</h2>
Value stocks, by their very definition, are those that are currently undervalued, relative to their assets, earnings, and future prospects. So, during periods of volatility and uncertainty, they have limited downside risks, especially when compared to growth stocks.
Besides this, value stocks, funds, and ETFs are generally more concentrated in sectors such as healthcare and utilities, which aren&#8217;t impacted by the tariffs. Similarly, base materials, <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/news/guidance/25/03/44432858/us-steel-faces-q1-pressures-but-eyes-long-term-gains-from-br2-nippon-partnership">steel</a>, aluminum, and other industrials that form the other big chunk of value stocks in the U.S. stand to benefit from President Trump&#8217;s trade wars. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44554923/goldman-sachs-warns-us-stocks-are-at-risk-of-further-declines-but-policy-pivot-from-trump-or-fed-could-stoke-recovery">Goldman Sachs Warns US Stocks &#8216;Are At Risk Of Further Declines,&#8217; But Policy Pivot From Trump Or Fed Could Stoke Recovery</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">More Reasons For Value To Rebound In 2025</h2>
According to Tony DeSpirito, the Chief Investment Officer at BlackRock (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>), another reason why values are set to outperform this year is simply the remarkable run-up that growth stocks have experienced in recent years. Growth stocks now represent nearly 40% of the S&amp;P 500, significantly higher than the historical average of 24%.
This means that a correction is warranted, as investors will look for diversification and more exposure to value picks, even without the existing market turmoil and uncertainties. 
DeSpirito further cites the valuation gap between the Russell growth and value indexes, which is now at its widest since December 2000, which kickstarted a three-year bear market through 2002, during which value stocks outperformed growth.
Image via Shutterstock
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Shares of banks and financial services stocks are trading lower following greater-than-expected inflation data measured through the PCE price index for February, while personal spending missed estimates. Additionally, recent tariff announcements may be weighing on equities.

BlackRock Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) broadened its fixed-income lineup with two new <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs">target maturity ETFs</a>.
The iShares iBonds Dec 2035 Term Corporate ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBCA#NYSE">IBCA</a>) and the iShares iBonds Oct 2035 Term TIPS ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IBIL#NYSE">IBIL</a>) blend the features of conventional bonds with the convenience of stock-like trading.
Both IBCA and IBIL, which launched Wednesday, can be useful parts of a bond ladder <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1100663/000119312525062392/d887896d497k.htm">strategy</a>. This approach involves holding bond ETFs with various maturity dates so that investors can control interest rate risk and continue to earn a steady income.
When the bonds mature, investors can reinvest in new ones, with the potential advantage of higher interest rates. This flexibility renders target maturity ETFs a sensible option for those who wish to manage risk versus return in shifting market conditions.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/new-etfs/25/03/44518378/crypto-with-controlled-risk-how-fortunas-new-bitcoin-fund-aims-to-manage-volatility-maximize-returns">Crypto With Controlled Risk: How Fortuna&#8217;s New Bitcoin Fund Seeks To Manage Volatility, Enhance Returns</a>
IBCA monitors and replicates the Bloomberg December 2035 Maturity Corporate Index but can also hold U.S. government securities, short-term paper, cash or cash equivalents, and money market funds. Under its prospectus, IBCA will liquidate on about December 15, 2035.
At its launch, IBCA&#8217;s portfolio concentrated on consumer goods and services and energy companies. It is a strong option for investors wanting long-term corporate bond exposure with a specific maturity date.
IBIL, on the other hand, is <a href="https://www.ishares.com/us/products/342148/ishares-ibonds-oct-2035-term-tips-etf">designed </a>for investors who want protection against inflation. It tracks the ICE 2035 Maturity US Inflation-Linked Treasury Index, which is comprised of inflation-indexed U.S. Treasury securities due in 2035.
The majority of IBIL assets are invested in the index&#8217;s component securities, although at most 10% may be invested in options, futures, and swap agreements. The fund will expire around October 15, 2035, for a disciplined approach to inflation-protection investing.
BlackRock portfolio managers James Mauro and Karen Uyehara oversee IBC and IBIL. Both funds have a low-cost ratio of 0.10%. 
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Image: Shutterstock

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IBCA

iShares Trust iShares iBonds Oct 2035 Term TIPS ETF

IBIL

BlackRock Unveils New iShares iBonds ETFs For Fixed-Income Investors

On CNBC's &#8220;Mad Money Lightning Round,&#8221; Jim Cramer said he likes NextEra Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</a>).
Morgan Stanley analyst David Arcaro, on March 20, maintained NextEra Energy with an Overweight rating and raised the price target from $95 to $97, supporting this view.
Cramer said BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) is a &#8220;true buy and homework&#8221; stock. &#8220;I am betting on Larry Fink [CEO of BlackRock],&#8221; he added.
BlackRock has further increased its investment in Strategy Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSTR#NASDAQ">MSTR</a>), the company that&#8217;s primarily known for its large Bitcoin (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BTC#NASDAQ">BTC</a>) reserves. A disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Feb. 6 shows that BlackRock&#8217;s investment portfolio now includes approximately 11.26 million shares. This move brings BlackRock&#8217;s total ownership in Strategy to 5%.
Stryker Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYK#NYSE">SYK</a>) is a &#8220;good&#8221; company, Cramer said.
On Wednesday, Stryker announced its intention to nominate Manny Maceda to the board of directors. Needham analyst Mike Matson reiterated a Buy rating on Stryker and maintained a $442 price target on March 21.
Price Action:
<ul>
<li>NextEra Energy shares gained 1.7% to settle at $69.73 on Wednesday.</li>
<li>BlackRock shares fell 0.5% to close at $968.24 during the session.</li>
<li>Stryker shares fell 1.4% to settle at $367.77 on Wednesday.</li>
</ul>
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Photo: Shutterstock

Long Ideas

Media

Trading Ideas

MSTR

Jim Cramer: Stryker Is A 'Good' Company, Says He Likes This Utilities Stock

After CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. was announced to have sold for a record $19 billion to a consortium led by BlackRock Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>), China is now scrutinizing Hong Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing&#8216;s global business empire.
What Happened: Beijing has ordered state-owned companies to halt new partnerships with companies associated with Li Ka-shing, according to sources <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-03-27/china-said-to-pause-new-deals-with-li-ka-shing-family-after-panama-ports-deal">cited</a> by Bloomberg. 
Senior officials&#8217; edict, which appeared to be intended to comprehend the scope of the family&#8217;s foreign businesses, was released last week and has no bearing on current commercial partnerships.
The port transaction, which includes 43 facilities across 23 countries, has drawn attention following U.S. President Donald Trump&#8216;s characterization of the deal as reclaiming strategic waterways from Chinese influence. Notably, the sale excludes ports in mainland China and Hong Kong, potentially <a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44135570/blackrocks-22-8-billion-port-deal-includes-key-panama-assets-as-trumps-canal-remarks-draw-attention">limiting Beijing&#8217;s leverage</a>.
CK Hutchison did not immediately respond to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga</a>'s request for comment.
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Why It Matters: With operations mostly in Europe, North America, and Australia, CK Hutchison only receives 12% of its revenue from Hong Kong and mainland China.
The move comes amid complex geopolitical dynamics, including Panama Canal <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44135570/blackrocks-22-8-billion-port-deal-includes-key-panama-assets-as-trumps-canal-remarks-draw-attention">tensions and infrastructure repositioning</a>. BlackRock Chairman Larry Fink described the acquisition as securing &#8220;patient, long-term capital&#8221; in global maritime infrastructure.
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Image via Shutterstock

Asia

Equities

BlackRock's $19 Billion Port Deal With Li Ka-shing Sparks China Scrutiny, State Firms Told To Pause New Ties: Report

Dan Loeb&#8216;s Third Point LLC made major changes in the portfolio in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/02/43755111/billionaire-investor-dan-loeb-boosts-stake-in-mark-zuckerbergs-meta-elon-musks-tesla-but-sold-these-three-mag-7-stocks-in-q4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the fourth quarter of 2024</a>.
Also, in February, the portfolio&nbsp;returned&nbsp;-2.3% on an NAV basis, underperforming the MSCI World Index (-0.7%) and the S&amp;P 500<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/03/44384767/dan-loebs-portfolio-feels-the-strain-as-tesla-amazon-pge-lose-ground" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Index (-1.3%) for the month</a>.
Reported in February, these five stocks—held as of Dec. 31, 2024—have each surged over 30% in the past year.
Financial company&nbsp;Brookfield Corporation&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BN#NYSE">BN</a>) shares jumped around 34.97% compared to its peer&nbsp;BlackRock, Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>), which rose 17.47% in the last&nbsp;year.
Third Point LLC held 4,990,000 shares of BN&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1040273/000108514625001713/xslForm13F_X02/infotable.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">as&nbsp;</a>of the fourth quarter of 2024, an increase from 4,725,000 shares&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1040273/000108514624005927/xslForm13F_X02/infotable.xml" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">in&nbsp;</a>the third quarter of 2024.
Wireless Telecommunication Services firm Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TDS#NYSE">TDS</a>) stock rocketed around 137% in the past year compared to the Invesco S&amp;P SmallCap Utilities &amp; Communication Services ETF (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PSCU#NASDAQ">PSCU</a>), with growth of 15.86% and closest peer T-Mobile US, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMUS#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>), which witnessed an increase of 60.74% in the same time frame.
Third Point held 6,000,000 shares&nbsp;of TDS as&nbsp;of the fourth quarter of 2024, which is a significant increase from 2,875,000 as of the third quarter of 2024.
Entertainment company Cinemark Holdings Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNK#NYSE">CNK</a>) shares jumped 44.23% vs. Invesco S&amp;P Smallcap 600 Pure Growth ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RZG#NYSE">RZG</a>), which was up 2.27%, and its peer Walt Disney Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>), which dipped 16.47% in the past year.
The investor held 3,750,000 shares&nbsp;as&nbsp;of CNK the fourth quarter of 2024, a significant reduction from 7,000,000 shares as of the third quarter of 2024.
Natural gas company EQT Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EQT#NYSE">EQT</a>) shares rose 55.51% in the past year compared to Invesco Energy Exploration &amp; Production ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PXE#NYSE">PXE</a>), which declined 15.43% in the same time frame.
Third Point held 2,950,000 EQT shares&nbsp;as&nbsp;of the fourth quarter of 2024, an increase from 1,950,000 shares as of the third quarter of 2024.
Tourism company Global Blue Group Holding AG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GB#NYSE">GB</a>) rose 48% in the last year. Loeb held 8,387,601 shares in the company in both the third and fourth quarters of 2024.
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BlackRock (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) CEO Larry Fink didn't dance around it. In a sit-down recently with Kayla Tausche of <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/12/business/video/larry-fink-market-pullback-us-economy-blackrock-ceo-tausche-cnc-digvid">CNN</a>, he said out loud what a lot of Americans have probably suspected for a while: if you work for a Fortune 500 company, retirement isn't that scary. But if you don't? Well, good luck.
"One of the fundamental problems in America is retirement is not that bad of a problem for the top Fortune 500 companies," Fink said. "We are providing enough support to our employees where they're getting the adequacy of retirement. It's beyond that."
And that "beyond" is where things get dicey.
"We refuse to talk about how do we get more broadening of our economy with more Americans participating in that," he added. "And so that's why we have to have a conversation here in Washington. This has to be considered a national priority and a national promise to all Americans."
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Translation: The system works—if you're lucky enough to be inside it.
Fink was in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44427073/larry-fink-says-the-u-s-needs-a-social-security-plan-where-every-american-can-grow-with-our-economy">D.C. meeting with policymakers</a>, pushing for retirement to be treated as a national priority. And this isn't some sudden concern. In his <a href="https://www.blackrock.com/corporate/investor-relations/larry-fink-annual-chairmans-letter">2024 annual letter to shareholders</a>, he laid it all out: the system is leaving millions behind—57 million Americans, to be exact. That includes gig workers, restaurant staff, farmers, and anyone without access to a traditional employer-sponsored retirement plan.
BlackRock tried to chip away at the problem by expanding access to target date ETFs, which are like training wheels for retirement investing. But even Fink admitted there are limits. "Better investment products can help, but there are limits to what something like a target date fund can do," he wrote. The biggest hurdle? Just getting started.
Meanwhile, Australia's been busy showing everyone how it's done.
Under the Superannuation Guarantee, Australian employers have been contributing to workers' retirement since 1992—no matter if they're full-time, part-time, or gig workers. The result? Australia now has the fourth-largest retirement system in the world, despite being ranked 54th in population.
Trending: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">invest pre-IPO from $0.55 per share now</a>.
Fink doesn't suggest copy-pasting Australia's system onto the U.S., but he thinks it's worth studying. "More should consider it," he said, pointing to 20 U.S. states, including Colorado and Virginia, that are testing state-run retirement programs to fill the gap.
Even employees who do have access to retirement plans are missing out.
According to Fink, about 17% of workers eligible for employer plans don't enroll. It's not because they've run the numbers and decided to skip it—it's usually because life gets in the way.
"It sounds trivial," he wrote, "but even the hour or so it takes someone to look through their work email inbox for the correct link to their company's retirement system… can be the unclearable hurdle."
Enter auto-enrollment. It's a tiny nudge with a massive impact. Studies show it boosts participation by nearly 50%. A new federal law will soon require companies that launch new 401(k) plans to auto-enroll workers, but Fink says there's still room to level up—like defaulting to higher contributions or matching funds.
And then there's the other half of the equation: spending the money.
Turns out, saving for retirement is only half the battle. The other half? Knowing how to spend it. BlackRock's 2018 study of 1,150 retirees found that even after 20 years of retirement, the average person had 80% of their pre-retirement savings still sitting there.
They weren't broke—they were worried. Only 32% said they felt comfortable spending their savings. Fink calls it the "retirement paradox": people who've saved enough are still afraid to touch it.
This anxiety traces back to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/01/43216432/billionaire-blackrock-ceo-larry-fink-declares-no-one-should-have-to-work-longer-than-they-want-but-says-retiring-at-65-is-crazy">America's retirement makeover</a>. In the old days, pensions were the norm. Retire after a few decades, get a monthly check. Simple. But now? It's all defined contribution plans—401(k)s that follow workers from job to job. Or at least, they're supposed to.
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In reality, transferring a 401(k) is such a hassle that about 40% of people cash out their accounts when switching jobs. So instead of a steady paycheck in retirement, they're stuck solving a math problem: how much to withdraw, and how long it needs to last. Spoiler: most people aren't retirement actuaries.
To tackle the spending side of retirement, BlackRock rolled out LifePath Paycheck, a strategy now live and available through select retirement plans. It's designed to deliver pension-like income from a 401(k)—a predictable monthly paycheck, minus the guesswork.&nbsp;
This hybrid approach—offering both flexibility and security—can turn retirement from a math puzzle into something that actually feels manageable.
Fink thinks it could revolutionize how retirement works in America—and maybe even beyond. "Because while retirement is mainly a saving challenge," he wrote, "the data is clear: it's a spending one too."
Bottom line? The current system works great for those at the top. For everyone else, Fink's saying it out loud: the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset">U.S. has a retirement problem</a>, and ignoring it won't make it go away.
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Billionaire BlackRock CEO Larry Fink Says Retirement Isn't a Problem for Fortune 500 Workers—But 'We Refuse' to Talk About Everyone Else

Asset management giant BlackRock (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) is deepening its presence in the digital asset space with the launch of a Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-spot-bitcoin-etfs">exchange-traded product (ETP)</a> in Europe, marking its first such initiative outside the U.S.
What Happened: The new product, named iShares Bitcoin ETP, will be available on Germany's Xetra exchange, as well as Euronext's Paris and Amsterdam platforms, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-03-25/blackrock-debuts-bitcoin-exchange-traded-product-in-europe?embedded-checkout=true">according</a> to Bloomberg.
It will trade under the tickers IB1T and BTCN, respectively. This move follows the company's highly successful rollout of its U.S.-based iShares Bitcoin Trust, which quickly amassed tens of billions in assets since launching in January 2024.
To attract early interest, BlackRock is offering the European ETP with an initial management fee of just 0.15%, discounted from its standard 0.25% until the end of the year. 
This temporary rate positions the fund among the most competitively priced crypto investment products in the region.
Manuela Sperandeo, who oversees iShares products in Europe and the Middle East at BlackRock, noted that the timing reflects a key moment in the digital asset investment landscape.
"We're seeing a shift where professional investors are now engaging more actively alongside established retail demand," she said.
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Why It Matters: While Europe has hosted crypto ETPs for some time, the overall market remains significantly smaller than its U.S. counterpart, with around $13.6 billion in assets under management across the region.
By contrast, BlackRock's U.S. Bitcoin product has rapidly become one of the most successful ETF launches in market history.
The physical Bitcoin held by the ETP will be stored by Coinbase (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>), which will serve as custodian.
The fund will be issued through a Swiss-based special purpose vehicle, and it is intended for both institutional participants and informed individual investors.
BlackRock's latest expansion highlights the firm's continued strategy of bringing traditional financial structures into the digital asset space, reinforcing Bitcoin's position as a mainstream investment option.
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BlackRock Expands Bitcoin ETF Offering To Europe

During a high-level meeting at the White House, President Donald Trump hosted UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed, marking a significant step in strengthening economic relations between <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/44272280/3-stocks-investing-650-billion-in-the-u-s-should-you-invest" rel="noreferrer noopener">the United States and the United Arab Emirates.</a>
Sheikh Tahnoon, visiting Washington at the direction of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, was accompanied by an extensive delegation, including heads of major UAE Sovereign Wealth Funds and corporations, per a <a target="_blank" href="https://ae.usembassy.gov/thanks-to-president-trump-uae-announces-significant-investments-in-u-s-economy/#:~:text=Following%20the%20meeting%2C%20the%20UAE,%2C%20energy%2C%20and%20American%20manufacturing." rel="noreferrer noopener">statement </a>from the U.S. Embassy &amp; Consulate in the United Arab Emirates.
The key highlight of the meeting was the announcement of a 10-year, $1.4 trillion investment framework, signaling the UAE's commitment to substantially increasing its investments in the U.S. economy.
These investments will focus on critical sectors such as artificial intelligence infrastructure, energy, semiconductors, and American manufacturing.
This landmark agreement aims to bolster U.S. leadership in technology and infrastructure, with the UAE committing to invest significantly in the next-generation data centers, energy solutions, and advanced technology development.
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In addition to the broader framework, several UAE-based companies made significant announcements. For instance, Abu Dhabi-based MGX, BlackRock, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>), Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>)
, and Global Infrastructure Partners welcomed NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and xAI into the AI Infrastructure Partnership, aimed at mobilizing up to $100 billion for data center and energy infrastructure.
Meanwhile, XRG, owned by ADNOC, committed to supporting U.S. natural gas production with a major investment in a LNG export facility in Texas.
Sheikh Tahnoon also <a target="_blank" href="https://www.uae-embassy.org/news/tahnoon-bin-zayed-meets-donald-trump-discusses-strategic-partnership-prospects" rel="noreferrer noopener">praised </a>President Trump for his leadership, which he believes has stimulated foreign direct investment and fostered robust economic partnerships between the two nations.
As part of his official visit to the U.S., Sheikh Tahnoon met with Scott Bessent, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, to discuss areas of economic and financial cooperation between the UAE and the U.S. and explore ways to strengthen them to serve the interests of both countries.
Both parties expressed their commitment to further strengthen the strategic partnership, particularly in advanced technology, energy, and infrastructure sectors.
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UAE Pledges $1.4 Trillion Investment In US Tech, Energy, And Manufacturing: Trump And Sheikh Tahnoon Strengthen Strategic Ties

BlackRock (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) CEO Larry Fink recently weighed in on the ongoing debate about Social Security's future, advocating for a plan that would allow Americans to benefit more directly from the U.S. economy's growth. Fink's comments come as policymakers consider potential changes to the Social Security system, which faces long-term funding challenges.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fink's Vision for Social Security Reform</h2>
At the BlackRock retirement summit in Washington, D.C. this month, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44238063/2025-will-be-a-rocky-year-says-blackrocks-larry-fink-but-he-believes-the-world-and-the-us-will-get-by-and-th">Fink</a> expressed support for more individual ownership in the Social Security system, though he said he wouldn't call it privatization. "The problem we have now [is that] we have a plan called Social Security that doesn't grow with the economy," Fink said.
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Under the current pay-as-you-go model, payroll tax contributions from today's workers fund benefits for current retirees. Any surplus is invested in special Treasury bonds that earn a market rate of interest and are guaranteed by the U.S. government. Fink argued that a different approach—one where Americans could invest in the broader market—could lead to higher returns and greater financial security in retirement.
"If we create a plan that every American can grow with our economy, they're going to feel more attached to our economy," Fink said.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Privatization Debate</h2>
The idea of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44252340/up-next-privatizing-social-security-warns-bernie-sanders-says-trump-wants-to-undermine-a-program-that-lifted-27-6m-from-poverty">privatizing Social Security</a> isn't new. In 2005, President George W. Bush proposed allowing workers to invest a portion of their Social Security taxes into personal accounts tied to the stock market. Fink claimed that if Bush's plan had been implemented, Americans would have seen their retirement savings increase fourfold based on the returns of the S&amp;P 500.
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Supporters of privatization argue that investing in the market could generate higher returns than Treasury bonds, potentially boosting retirement benefits. Proponents believe privatization could increase the savings rate, produce better investment returns, and lead to higher payouts for retirees.
However, critics warn that market-based investments come with risks. Rep. John Larson (D-CT) told CNBC that during the 2008 financial crisis, the stock market plummeted, but Social Security continued to make payments without interruption. Larson said Americans now have to choose whether they want capitalism or the government to guarantee their retirement. He also said he believes the Trump administration's goal is to privatize Social Security.&nbsp;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Potential Risks and Challenges</h2>
Opponents of privatization argue that transitioning to a market-based system could jeopardize the safety and predictability of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44368080/ssa-to-seek-100-recovery-on-social-security-overpayments-heres-what-this-means-for-your-benefits">Social Security benefits</a>. A shift to private accounts would require significant upfront funding to cover benefits for current retirees while younger workers contribute to their own accounts.
Critics also say that privatization could increase inequality, as wealthier Americans with greater financial literacy might benefit more from market-based returns. According to Investopedia, skeptics argue that privatization would expose Americans to higher investment risks and increased administrative costs.
Additionally, the Social Security Administration <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/oact/trsum/">projects</a> that its main trust fund will be depleted by 2033. Without changes, the program will only be able to pay about 79% of scheduled benefits after that year. Fink's proposal could provide an alternative funding solution, but it would require broad political and public support to become a reality.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Finding a Path Forward</h2>
Lawmakers have proposed various strategies to shore up <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44292349/if-i-were-a-beneficiary-id-be-setting-aside-some-money-right-now-former-ssa-commissioner-warns-that-payments-could-be-disrupted-soon">Social Security's finances</a>. Larson has introduced a plan to raise taxes on the wealthy and increase benefits, while others have suggested cutting benefits or raising the retirement age. However, bipartisan agreement on reform remains elusive.
Fink's call to rethink the structure of Social Security reflects broader concerns about the program's sustainability. "We really do have a failure of imagination on Social Security reform," Andrew Biggs, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, told CNBC. "I think what Larry Fink is saying is, ‘Let's think big on it.'"
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Larry Fink Says The U.S. Needs A Social Security Plan Where 'Every American Can Grow With Our Economy'

Bitwise&nbsp;Chief Investment Officer&nbsp;Matt Hougan explained Bitcoin&#8217;s (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) often contradictory behavior during market crises, despite its narrative as an inflation hedge.
What Happened: In a research note <a href="https://experts.bitwiseinvestments.com/cio-memos/dip-then-rip">released </a>Tuesday, Hougan said that short-term price dips that Bitcoin experiences during economic turbulence are due to increased market uncertainty. This uncertainty amplifies the perceived riskiness of the asset, leading to a temporary decrease in the asset&#8217;s value, also known as a &#8220;discount factor.&#8221;
Hougan used the example of tariff concerns, which have <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/03/44099481/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-nosedive-as-trumps-tariff-moves-wipe-out-crypto-reserve-fueled-gains-analyst-says-breaking-through-this-barrier-will-help-btc-touch-new-highs-2">battered the apex cryptocurrency</a> over the past month. While tariffs increase the riskiness in the short term, they increase the long-term price target owing to economic disorder. 
&#8220;So even though we're more bullish than ever on Bitcoin, our short-term price target falls. That explains the pullback. But if the market stabilizes and it turns out the world's not ending and the discount factor goes back from 85% to 75%, Bitcoin will recover from the pullback,&#8221; Hougan said, describing it as a &#8220;Dip Then Rip&#8221; phenomenon.
Hougan said Bitwise remained optimistic about Bitcoin, reiterating the $1 million price target by 2029 he gave in December 2024.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44390616/cathie-wood-believes-most-memecoins-wont-face-fearsome-declines-end-up-becoming-collectors-items">Cathie Wood Believes Most Memecoins Will Face &#8216;Fearsome Declines,&#8217; But They Could End Up Becoming Collector&#8217;s Items</a>
Why It Matters: Bitcoin&#8217;s performance during market crises has been a topic of discussion among industry experts.&nbsp; Robbie Mitchnick, BlackRock&#8217;s Digital Assets head, stated Wednesday that a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44395095/recession-would-be-a-big-catalyst-for-bitcoin-blackrocks-head-of-digital-assets-says">potential U.S. recession</a> could catalyze Bitcoin&#8217;s next bull cycle.
Meanwhile,&nbsp;Hougan said in a separate interview that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44397546/bitcoin-could-reach-200000-in-2025-if-fed-relaxes-policy-bitwises-matt-hougan-says">Bitcoin could reach $200,000</a> by the end of 2025, if the Federal Reserve takes steps to stimulate the economy.
Price Action: At the time of writing, Bitcoin was exchanging hands at $85,876.49, up 3.42% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>. Year-to-date, the coin has dipped 9%.
Image via Shutterstock
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</ul>
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>

Bitcoin's Crisis Paradox Decoded: Bitwise CIO Explains 'Dip Then Rip' Phenomenon

BlackRock (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 2.37% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 20.83%. Currently, BlackRock has a market capitalization of $148.79 billion. 
Buying $1000 In BLK: If an investor had bought $1000 of BLK stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $2,923.55 today based on a price of $958.40 for BLK at the time of writing.
<h3>BlackRock's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742427907_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$1000 Invested In BlackRock 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

On Wednesday, US drug company Pfizer Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>) sold its entire stake in Haleon Plc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HLN#NYSE">HLN</a>) to institutional investors and the consumer healthcare firm at 385 pence per share ($5.00).
Under the deal, Haleon agreed to purchase approximately 44 million ordinary shares at 385 pence from Pfizer off-market for an aggregate consideration of approximately 170 million pounds, or $220 million.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/25/03/44311862/pfizers-direct-to-consumer-model-faces-scrutiny-from-us-senators" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pfizer&#8217;s Direct-To-Consumer Model Faces Scrutiny From US Senators&nbsp;</a>
Pfizer has <a href="https://www.londonstockexchange.com/news-article/market-news/pricing-of-offering-in-haleon-plc-by-pfizer-inc/16947121" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sold</a> approximately 618 million ordinary shares in Haleon to institutional investors at 385 pence per share, raising gross sale proceeds of approximately 2.4 billion pounds, or $3.1 billion.
After the off-market purchase and Pfizer&#8217;s offering to institutional investors, Pfizer&#8217;s interest in Haleon&#8217;s issued ordinary shares with voting rights is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.londonstockexchange.com/news-article/HLN/update-on-off-market-purchase-alongside-pfizer/16947343" rel="noreferrer noopener">expected</a> to reduce from approximately 7.3% to nil.
Brian McNamara, CEO of Haleon, commented:&nbsp;&#8220;Today&#8217;s transaction is an important milestone for the business and marks Pfizer fully exiting its stake in Haleon, having been at 32% at the time of demerger in July 2022. Our participation in the offering is consistent with our disciplined capital allocation priorities, and supports our commitment to deliver attractive returns for shareholders, underpinned by a strong investment grade balance sheet. Nearly three years on from demerger, Haleon is in a position of strength and is well placed to capitalize on the significant opportunities ahead.&#8221;
Settlement of the offering is expected to occur on March 21.
In October 2024, Pfizer divested a $3.3 billion stake in&nbsp;Haleon, reducing its holding from 22.6% to 15% in the British <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/10/41112790/pfizer-divests-3-3b-stake-in-sensodyne-toothpaste-and-panadol-painkiller-maker-haleon" rel="noreferrer noopener">consumer healthcare company</a>.
In May 2024, GSK plc&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GSK#NYSE">GSK</a>)&nbsp;confirmed&nbsp;the sale of 385.3 million shares in&nbsp;Haleon&nbsp;for $1.58 billion, fully exiting its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/05/38895933/gsk-completely-exits-sensodyne-toothpaste-maker-haleon-in-1-6b-sale" rel="noreferrer noopener">position in Haleon</a>.&nbsp;
In the fourth-quarter earnings release, Haleon projects 2025 organic revenue to grow between 4% and 6%. Haleon expects organic revenue and operating profit growth to be weighted towards the s<a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/02/44012867/sensodyne-toothpaste-maker-haleon-expects-profit-to-be-weighted-towards-second-half-of-2025" rel="noreferrer noopener">econd half of the year</a>.
Reuters notes that following Pfizer&#8217;s disposal, BlackRock Inc&#8217;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>)&nbsp;unit will become Haleon&#8217;s largest shareholder with a more than 5% stake.
Price Action: HLN stock is down 0.05% at $10.28, and PFE stock is up 0.30% at $26.38 at the last check Wednesday.
Read Next:
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Photo: Shutterstock

Health Care

Pfizer Offloads Its Last 7% Stake In Consumer Health Haleon For Over $3 Billion

On Wednesday, BlackRock Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NYSE">BLK</a>) announced that along with its subsidiary Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), and MGX, has given major updates to the AI Infrastructure Partnership (AIP), a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40909973/blackrock-microsoft-others-team-up-for-30b-artificial-intelligence-fund-help-us-fuel-ai-innovation-a" rel="noreferrer noopener">collective initiative aimed </a>at developing next-generation AI data centers and energy solutions.
This collaboration will <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/25/03/b44393651/blackrock-global-infrastructure-partners-microsoft-and-mgx-welcome-nvidia-and-xai-to-the-ai-infras" rel="noreferrer noopener">include the addition of tech giants</a> NVIDIA Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Elon Musk's AI venture&nbsp;xAI, further solidifying the partnership's leadership in AI infrastructure.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44372913/whats-going-on-with-nio-stock-today" rel="noreferrer noopener">NIO And CATL To Build China's Largest Battery Swapping Network</a>
NVIDIA will maintain its position as a technical advisor, contributing its AI computing and hardware knowledge.
The company's participation will support the platform in rolling out AI data center infrastructure. This collective is focused on broadening and advancing AI capabilities, with a specific emphasis on creating energy-efficient solutions for AI data centers.
Today, NVIDIA <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44390083/nvidia-ai-boom-just-beginning-as-blackwell-gains-traction-and-rubin-ultra-raises-the-power-bar-says-gene-munster-investors-are-still-skeptical" rel="noreferrer noopener">announced products, including</a> Blackwell Ultra, Rubin, and co-packaged optics technology that enables data centers to deploy more GPUs.
Nvidia has consistently achieved roughly a 4x boost in AI computing power with each new generation, from Hopper in 2022 to Blackwell in 2024 and the expected Rubin in 2026.
Further boosting this initiative, GE Vernova Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GEV#NYSE">GEV</a>) and NextEra Energy Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NEE#NYSE">NEE</a>) have joined the partnership, promising to contribute their resources to scaling energy solutions essential for AI infrastructure.
GE Vernova will also play a key role in supply chain planning and delivering cutting-edge energy solutions to support AI data centers.
Since its launch in September 2024, AIP has already attracted strong interest from investors and corporations. With an initial target to unlock $30 billion in capital, the partnership expects to generate up to $100 billion in total investment potential, including debt financing.
These funds will focus on building critical AI infrastructure, driving economic growth, and advancing digital and energy capabilities.
The partnership's investments will initially prioritize AI data centers in the United States and other OECD countries.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44393734/siemens-to-slash-6000-jobs-as-demand-slows-in-germany-and-china" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Siemens To Slash 6,000 Jobs As Demand Slows In Germany And China</a></li>
</ul>
Photo via Shutterstock

Tech

NVIDIA And Elon Musk's xAI Join BlackRock, Microsoft Led AI Infrastructure Partnership

Robbie Mitchnick, Global Head of Digital Assets at BlackRock (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BLK#NASDAQ">BLK</a>), said a potential U.S. recession could act as a powerful driver for Bitcoin's (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44320586/bitcoin-sees-potential-bullish-breakout-toward-91000">next bull cycle</a>, citing liquidity injections and fiscal responses as key catalysts.
What Happened: <a href="https://x.com/DegenerateNews/status/1902292905898770757">Speaking </a>with Yahoo Finance on Wednesday, Mitchnick explained that while Bitcoin has historically been perceived as "digital gold," recent price action has fallen short of this reputation.
Despite some optimism following policy shifts in Washington, Bitcoin's performance has been subdued, currently hovering near $83,550 after giving back its late-2024 rally gains.
"The crypto market may have gotten ahead of itself with expectations about how fast deregulation and other catalysts would arrive," Mitchnick said. 
He noted that while Bitcoin rose sharply into the end of 2024, the early part of 2025 has been marked by modest ETF outflows and cautious sentiment.
Mitchnick argued that Bitcoin's fundamental characteristics—its scarcity, decentralization, and independence from traditional monetary systems—position it as a long-term hedge, especially during periods of economic stress. 
"A recession would be a big catalyst for Bitcoin," he said. 
"It's long liquidity, meaning it benefits from increased fiscal spending, deficit accumulation, and lower interest rates—all typical features of a recessionary environment."
While gold has recently surged to record highs amid growing economic uncertainty, Bitcoin has struggled to mirror that trend. 
Mitchnick attributed this partially to short-term correlations and how the crypto market narrative has leaned into viewing Bitcoin as a "risk-on" asset. 
"There's a self-fulfilling element to how Bitcoin is being traded in the short term," he noted.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44389033/coinbase-introduces-verified-pools-for-clearer-onchain-liquidity-in-limited-areas">Coinbase Introduces Verified Pools For Clearer Onchain Liquidity In Limited Areas</a>
Why It Matters: He also discussed ETF market dynamics, highlighting that recent Bitcoin ETF outflows have been driven primarily by hedge funds unwinding spot-futures arbitrage trades.
"The core long-term holders are still in," he explained, pointing to continued interest from institutional investors despite the volatile price action.
Commenting on the Trump administration's establishment of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44212604/peter-schiff-establishes-personal-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-vows-not-to-sell-going-down-with-the-ship-so-others-never-get-on-board">U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve</a>, Mitchnick said, "It's a strong signal of support for Bitcoin's uniqueness within the digital asset space, though the specifics of how the government might accumulate Bitcoin remain to be seen."
While acknowledging market headwinds, Mitchnick emphasized that many professional investors see the current downturn as an opportunity. 
"Some of the most sophisticated Bitcoin accumulators we speak with are treating this dip as a buying opportunity," he added.
Despite challenges facing the broader crypto industry—including recent hacks and concerns about regulatory clarity—Mitchnick remained optimistic about Bitcoin's long-term role as a portfolio hedge against economic instability.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44383209/solana-underperforms-historical-bitcoin-ethereum-volumes-on-first-day-of-cme-futures-trading">Solana Underperforms Historical Bitcoin, Ethereum Volumes On First Day Of CME Futures Trading</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Recession Would Be 'A Big Catalyst For Bitcoin,' BlackRock's Head Of Digital Assets Says

Blackrock, Global Infrastructure Partners Announced That NVIDIA And xAI Will Join The Global AI Infrastructure Investment Partnership, Now Named The AI Infrastructure Partnership

Shares of companies in the broader financial services sector are trading higher amid an overall market rebound following recent weakness.

CNFR

HRTG

Shares of banks and financial services stocks are trading higher amid an overall market rebound following recent weakness.

Key Trends in the Rapidly Changing Crypto World

Press Releases

BlackRock Simplifies Investor Access to Liquid Alternatives with Managed Futures ETF

Tech, Crypto, and AI Emerge as Top Investor Bets for 2025 Amid Economic Turbulence

BlackRock® Canada Announces March Cash Distributions for the iShares® ETFs

BlackRock, Global Infrastructure Partners, Microsoft, and MGX Welcome NVIDIA and xAI to the AI Infrastructure Partnership to Drive Investment in Data Centers and Enabling Infrastructure

Dividends

BlackRock® Canada Announces Final March Cash Distributions for the iShares® Premium Money Market ETF

BlackRock Goes Live with First-of-its-Kind Public-Private Model Portfolios, Enabling Easier Access to Private Markets

Fidelity Investments to Launch Stablecoin Amid Regulatory Developments

BlackRock Nominates Gregory Fleming and Kathleen Murphy to Board of Directors

BlackRock to Report First Quarter 2025 Earnings on April 11th

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