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CONFLUENT INC-CLASS A

Confluent

Confluent Inc provides a data streaming platform that enables customers to connect their applications, systems, and data layers and can be deployed as a fully managed cloud-native software-as-a-service (SaaS) offering. Its products include Confluent Cloud, a self-managed software offering, Confluent Platform, a managed service offering where the raw data resides inside a customer's cloud environment, and WarpStream, among others. Confluent also offers professional services and education services. The company generates revenue from the sale of subscriptions and services. Geographically, it generates a majority of its revenue from its business in the United States and the rest from International markets.

Confluent Inc

When it comes to protecting family property, waiting too long to set up a trust can come with serious consequences — especially in complex family situations. On a recent episode of the "<a href="https://omny.fm/shows/suze-ormans-women-and-money/ask-kt-suze-anything-what-do-i-do-if-i-forgot-to-start-taking-my-rmd">Women &amp; Money</a>" podcast, personal finance expert Suze Orman warned listeners about the risks of leaving a home outside of a trust, using a real-life question from a concerned listener as an example.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Complicated Family Setup</h2>
A listener named Yvonne wrote in to explain that her mother still lives in the family home with one of her sons. The father lives elsewhere with a girlfriend, though the parents are still legally married. The listener and her wife already have their own trust and are hoping to help her mother create one for the house.
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The goal is for the home to be passed on to the four children — Yvonne and her siblings — when the mother passes away. But as Orman quickly pointed out, things can go wrong if the details aren't handled correctly, especially in a community property state like California.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Danger Lies in the Title</h2>
"The real question at hand, Yvonne: how is title to this house held?" Orman asked.&nbsp;
She then explained that if the home is owned jointly with the right of survivorship and the mother passes away first, the father would automatically inherit the entire house — no matter what the mother's will or trust says.
That's because how an asset is titled overrides the instructions in a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45632293/this-119-will-trust-kit-could-save-your-family-thousands-and-its-now-20-off">will or trust</a>. In this case, the father could then leave the home to someone else, including his girlfriend, and the children would be left with nothing.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Needs to Be Done</h2>
To prevent that outcome, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/05/45702148/suze-orman-tells-65-year-old-with-600k-savings-and-no-debt-you-are-so-far-ahead">Orman</a> offered a clear plan:
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Transfer the Title: First, the mother needs to get the title of the house into her name alone. This may require a divorce or legal agreement, especially since they are still married.</li>
<li>Set Up a Trust: Once the home is in her name, the next step is to transfer the home into a living trust. This allows the mother to remain the beneficiary while she's alive, and then pass the house to her children as she wishes after her death.</li>
<li>Act Now: Orman emphasized the urgency: "Otherwise, your greatest nightmare if she dies first is absolutely going to happen."</li>
</ol>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why a Trust Matters</h2>
A living trust helps avoid probate, gives clarity over who receives the asset, and protects it from being redirected if unexpected life events occur — such as a surviving spouse remarrying or changing their will.
Though Orman also mentioned that putting the kids directly on the title might sound like a quick fix, she warned against it due to tax complications like missing out on a step-up in basis.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bottom Line</h2>
If your family owns a home and you want to ensure it passes smoothly to the next generation, it's essential to look beyond just having a will. Without a trust — and the proper title setup — your loved ones could lose more than just a piece of property.
Now may be the right time to have that conversation.
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Personal Finance

'If Mom Dies First, We Lose The House': Suze Orman Warns What Can Go Wrong Without A Trust

Beaverton, Oregon-based semiconductor startup AheadComputing, founded by four former Intel (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/INTC#NASDAQ">INTC</a>) central processing unit architects,<a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/aheadcomputing-raises-21-5m-seed-round-and-introduces-breakthrough-microprocessor-architecture-designed-for-next-era-of-general-purpose-computing-302379683.html"> announced</a> in February that it secured $21.5 million in seed funding to develop a new class of high-performance processors based on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/23/10/35130755/risc-v-vs-arm-how-us-china-tech-tensions-could-redefine-chip-innovation">RISC-V</a> architecture.
The seed funding round was led by Eclipse Ventures, with participation from Maverick Capital, Fundomo, and EPIQ Capital. The company also added Jim Keller to its board of directors. Keller is widely regarded as one of the foremost chip designers in the world, having held engineering leadership roles at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45790909/was-jeff-bezos-backed-whylabs-secretly-acquired-by-apple-after-10m-series-a-to-compete-in-ai-arms-race-against-google-openai-and-microsoft">Apple</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), Intel, and Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), <a href="https://www.oregonlive.com/silicon-forest/2025/06/top-researchers-leave-intel-to-build-startup-with-the-biggest-baddest-cpu.html">The Oregonian</a> reports.
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The company, established in 2024, is aiming to design a scalable and power-efficient CPU that challenges x86 dominance in the data center and artificial intelligence sectors, The Oregonian says. Led by CEO Debbie Marr, AheadComputing intends to deliver what it calls the &#8220;biggest, baddest CPU in the world.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Open Architecture Positions AheadComputing for Strategic Advantage</h2>
RISC-V, a royalty-free, open instruction set architecture, is emerging as a credible alternative to proprietary platforms such as Intel's x86 and ARM's licensed designs. According to The Oregonian, the architecture enables companies to create customized processors without licensing restrictions or vendor lock-in.
AheadComputing's team has grown to 80 employees, many of whom previously held senior roles at Intel. The company is targeting high-performance workloads in cloud infrastructure, AI inference, and edge computing applications. Its design leverages the modular &#8220;chiplet&#8221; model, allowing for flexible system-on-chip configurations tailored to specific customer needs, The Oregonian reports.
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Co-founder Jonathan Pearce told The Oregonian that the fragmentation of computing systems presents an opportunity for specialized vendors to offer optimized components within larger heterogeneous systems. &#8220;You get the opportunity for a company like AheadComputing to provide that piece of the overall system. As opposed to the past 20 years where it was just one tech giant,&#8221; Pearce said.
AheadComputing operates as a fabless semiconductor company, outsourcing chip fabrication to partners such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. This capital-efficient model allows the firm to focus resources on architectural innovation and design execution, The Oregonian reports.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Silicon Forest Sees Renewed Growth As Intel Alumni Go Independent</h2>
Intel's long-standing position as Oregon's largest private employer is undergoing transition, with multiple senior engineers departing to build independent ventures. According to The Oregonian, AheadComputing represents one of the most ambitious spinouts, combining advanced design experience with startup agility.
Vice president of AheadComputing&#8217;s design verification Alon Mahl said the hands-on startup environment allows engineering leaders to accelerate timelines and make immediate decisions without layers of corporate oversight. The Oregonian says that the team is already seeking larger office space in Washington County to accommodate growth and additional equipment needs.
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According to The Oregonian, AheadComputing joins a small group of Oregon-based chip startups led by Intel alumni, including Ampere Computing, which was recently acquired by SoftBank for $6.5 billion while retaining its Portland office footprint.
Portland State University professor Christof Teuscher, an expert in microprocessor architecture, said the startup is taking a high-risk, high-reward approach. While RISC-V has traditionally been used in academic and embedded contexts, The Oregonian says that Teuscher expressed skepticism about its ability to succeed in high-performance commercial environments.
According to The Oregonian, AheadComputing envisions its chips will eventually power PCs, laptops, and data centers, with possible clients including Google, Amazon (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), and Samsung.
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News

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Intel Veterans Raise $22M To Disrupt The Semiconductor Industry With The 'Baddest CPU In The World,' Backed By Apple And AMD Alum Jim Keller

Despite President Donald Trump&#8217;s frequent promises to boost manufacturing in America, recent job figures show troubling declines.&nbsp;
In a recent <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WRdQiOLmWBQ">Fox Business</a> segment, host Stuart Varney pressed Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer over the loss of 8,000 manufacturing jobs in May, asking directly, &#8220;How come we&#8217;re losing 8,000 manufacturing jobs in May when there&#8217;s a big push to bring manufacturing jobs back to America?&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mixed Messages On Manufacturing</h2>
Chavez-DeRemer pointed out general improvements in the economy, saying, &#8220;We're certainly holding steady, and under the Trump administration, manufacturing jobs are still up over what the last administration, under Biden, had.&#8221; She emphasized ongoing efforts to expand the sector through construction and healthcare employment, alongside new manufacturing plants. Yet, she admitted, &#8220;It will take some time.&#8221;
Varney challenged Chavez-DeRemer repeatedly, pointing out the contradiction between the administration&#8217;s push to revive manufacturing and the actual job losses reported. Chavez-DeRemer attributed the setbacks partially to the transitional effects of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/06/45877836/world-bank-slashes-global-growth-forecast-to-lowest-since-1960s-amid-trump-tariffs-if-the-right-policy-actions-are-taken">Trump&#8217;s tariff policies</a> aimed at leveling the playing field internationally.
&#8220;The president has done a wonderful job in negotiating the level playing field,&#8221; Chavez-DeRemer argued. &#8220;We're seeing tens of trillions of dollars being reinvested here in the United States, and I'll continue to focus on that skilled workforce as those manufacturing jobs continue to grow.&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Economic Realities And Sector Concerns</h2>
Despite Chavez-DeRemer&#8217;s assurances, industry figures reflect broader concerns. <a href="https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/empsit.pdf">According</a> to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employers <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/06/45812372/us-labor-markets-defies-tariff-concerns-as-nonfarm-payrolls-wages-top-expectations-in-may">added only 139,000 jobs</a> overall in May, marking a noticeable slowdown. Factory managers have expressed unease about Trump&#8217;s tariffs in the Institute for Supply Management&#8217;s May <a href="https://www.ismworld.org/supply-management-news-and-reports/reports/ism-report-on-business/pmi/may/">survey</a>, describing them as a significant burden for manufacturing businesses, with one manager noting that the current &#8220;chaos does not bode well for anyone.&#8221;
Recent economic reports support this caution, highlighting the significant role manufacturing plays in the U.S. economy. As of late 2024, manufacturing contributed almost $3 trillion to the economy and supported millions of jobs directly and indirectly. Yet, despite these promising figures, the manufacturing sector continues to shed positions.
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With automation and artificial intelligence rapidly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/05/45613320/ai-is-gutting-entry-level-jobs-and-gen-z-is-paying-the-price-warns-linkedins-aneesh-raman">transforming the job landscape</a>, Varney asked Chavez-DeRemer about predictions that AI could eliminate half of all entry-level white-collar jobs within five years. Chavez-DeRemer downplayed the threat, saying, &#8220;I believe that we're going to streamline and we're going to assist the American worker. Things are changing at a rapid pace, but AI is not going anywhere.&#8221;
She added that the administration is proactively training workers for this shift, dedicating 10% of apprenticeship grants to AI training.
For now, manufacturing in the U.S. faces significant headwinds, caught between political promises, economic pressures, and a rapidly evolving workforce landscape.
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Image: Midjourney

Fox Business Host Presses Trump's Labor Secretary: How Come We're Losing Manufacturing Jobs When There's A Big Push To Bring Them To The U.S.

Israel&#8217;s airstrikes have caused considerable damage to Iran&#8217;s nuclear program. The full impact of these strikes is still being evaluated by experts. This situation poses a significant challenge for both the US and Israel as they deliberate on their next course of action.
What Happened: According to a report on Saturday, the airstrikes launched by Israel have resulted in significant damage to Iran&#8217;s nuclear facilities. However, experts are of the opinion that these strikes have not entirely wiped out the program. 
Rafael Mariano Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency, revealed that while the surface facilities at Natanz, Iran&#8217;s primary nuclear-fuel site, were destroyed, the main underground halls where uranium enrichment occurs are still operational, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-14/iran-s-nuclear-sites-hobbled-but-not-destroyed-experts-say?srnd=homepage-asia&amp;sref=TBDibEcD">reports</a> Bloomberg. 
In retaliation to the attacks, Iran targeted Israeli cities with hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones. The strikes also resulted in the death of nine top scientists who were instrumental to Iran&#8217;s nuclear aspirations. 
These developments have cast a shadow over the future of US-Iran talks that aim to limit Tehran&#8217;s nuclear activities in return for relief from sanctions.
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Experts have expressed concerns that the airstrikes could complicate the monitoring of Iran&#8217;s nuclear activities, as inspectors backed by the UN may not be able to access the sites for an extended period. 
Fears are also mounting that Iran might move uranium to a hidden location or that the IAEA may not be able to account for all of Iran&#8217;s nuclear materials due to the damage inflicted.
The current situation puts the US in a tight spot, as the only feasible way to destroy&nbsp;the enrichment site at Fordow,&nbsp;which is located beneath a mountain, would be through the use of massive bunker-buster bombs, a weapon that only the US possesses.
Why It Matters: The recent airstrikes and their aftermath have heightened tensions in the Middle East, with potential global implications. The future of US-Iran talks hangs in the balance, and the potential for further escalation remains high. 
The situation calls for careful diplomacy and strategic decision-making from all involved parties.
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Global

Israeli Airstrikes Damage Iran's Nuclear Sites, Experts Assess Impact

Your 30s are a time of big changes. You&#8217;re probably growing in your career, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/06/45870791/someone-asked-why-are-more-and-more-people-buying-forever-homes-as-their-first-the-answers-say-a-lot">buying a home</a>, getting married or having kids, said financial expert Bo Hanson, host of &#8220;The Money Guy Show.&#8221; Along with those life shifts come serious financial decisions that can shape the rest of your life.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">These Years Can Make or Break Your Financial Future</h2>
In a recent <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Gc5ayLeCNA">video</a> on their YouTube channel, Hanson explained that the financial habits and decisions you establish set the foundation for lifelong stability and wealth. And while that may sound a bit overwhelming, he broke it down into a few realistic goals to hit <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/06/39192298/warren-buffett-was-asked-if-he-had-to-start-over-in-his-30s-how-would-he-make-30-billion-today-h">before you turn 40</a>.
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Here are the three biggest financial milestones you should aim for in your 30s:
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Have One To Three Times Your Income Invested</h2>
The first goal is to hit a net worth equal to your annual income in investable assets—not including home equity or emergency savings—by your early 30s.
&#8220;Crossing this milestone is an awesome first step for anyone starting out in their wealth-building journey,&#8221; the host said. This means you&#8217;re likely living below your means and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/05/38849017/suze-orman-warns-you-want-to-be-a-multi-millionaire-dont-insult-the-beauty-of-compound-interest-">compound interest</a> is starting to work in your favor.
By the time you&#8217;re hitting 40, the ideal target is to have three times your income invested. And it's not as far-fetched as it sounds. If you start at age 30 with zero savings and put away $941 a month with a 9% return, you could have over $150,000 by 40. &#8220;That&#8217;s literally three times a $50,000 income,&#8221; Hanson explained.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Save $941 Per Month</h2>
The $941 figure isn't random. It&#8217;s the combined monthly amount needed to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44656837/build-your-retirement-portfolio-while-saving-for-emergencies-a-roth-ira-can-double-as-an-emergency-fund-is-that-true">max out a Roth IRA</a> — $583 per month — and a health savings account — $358 per month — assuming you're eligible.
&#8220;Combining these two accounts helps you build significant <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/content/42363760/top-tax-efficient-investments-to-maximize-your-wealth">tax-free wealth</a> and this greatly enhances your long-term financial health,&#8221; Hanson said. You can automate this savings amount or use payroll deferrals if your employer allows it. &#8220;You have to invest the dollars. Saving in these accounts is only the first part of the equation.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Save 25% Of Your Gross Income</h2>
This milestone shows you&#8217;re going beyond just checking boxes like maxing out a Roth IRA and HSA. It's a sign you're serious about building long-term wealth.
&#8220;The discipline to consistently save a quarter of your income demonstrates that you&#8217;re committed to building long-term wealth and prioritizing your future financial security over short-term gratification,&#8221; Hanson said.
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If your employer offers a match, you might already be close to that 25% target without realizing it. Every 1% increase helps. As the host put it, &#8220;You get to choose your hard today or hard tomorrow.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bonus: Build A Financial Moat</h2>
Once your saving habits are solid, it's time to protect your progress. That starts with a fully funded emergency fund, especially if your lifestyle has changed. &#8220;In your 30s, things always go sideways,&#8221; Hanson said.
Protection also means having <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/life-insurance">life insurance</a> if others depend on you, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45632293/this-119-will-trust-kit-could-save-your-family-thousands-and-its-now-20-off">updating your will</a> and adjusting your emergency fund as your expenses grow. &#8220;Your 30s are when your financial life—and generally your life altogether—expand a great deal,&#8221; Hanson explained. &#8220;It's important to make sure that those who depend on you are taken care of.&#8221;
Whether you&#8217;re ahead, behind or just getting started, the message is simple: start now, stay consistent and build from there. &#8220;Every day counts.&#8221;
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Image: Shutterstock

Not Sure If You're On Track Financially? Here Are 3 Money Milestones Every 30-Something Should Aim For

Celldex Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CLDX#NASDAQ">CLDX</a>) today announced data demonstrating that barzolvolimab profoundly improves angioedema at 52 weeks in the Company's Phase 2 clinical trial in chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU). Angioedema, characterized by swelling of the deeper&nbsp;dermal&nbsp;layers of the skin and mucous&nbsp;membranes, is a painful, debilitating symptom of CSU that has significant impact on quality of life. It commonly affects the face (lips and eyelids), hands, feet, and&nbsp;genitalia but can also involve the tongue, uvula, soft&nbsp;palate, and&nbsp;pharynx1.
&nbsp;
Summary of Key Findings:
<ul>
<li>Patients on study had severe CSU. Over 70% of patients had a weekly urticaria activity score (UAS7) greater than 28 at baseline and reported very high rates of angioedema at baseline.</li>
<li>Barzolvolimab demonstrated rapid, robust and durable improvements in angioedema symptoms over the treatment period. At Week 52, an 86% mean reduction from baseline was reported for 150 mg Q4W arm and an 82% reduction was reported for the 300 mg Q8W.</li>
<li>Up to 77% of patients treated with barzolvolimab who had angioedema at baseline were angioedema free (AAS7=0) at Week 52.</li>
<li>Patients treated with barzolvolimab were angioedema free up to 72% of the time over the 52 week treatment period.</li>
<li>Up to 87% of patients reported clinically meaningful improvement (&gt;8 point) in AAS7 at Week 52.</li>
</ul>

CLDX

Celldex On Saturday Announced 77% Of Patients Treated With Barzolvolimab Who Had Angioedema At Baseline Were Angioedema Free At Week 52

In a recent episode of &#8220;The Playbook,&#8221; a video series by Sports Illustrated and Entrepreneur, billionaire entrepreneur Mark Cuban expressed his views on the concept of work-life balance, particularly for those <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44067809/mark-cuban-shares-two-things-hed-do-at-12-to-succeed-and-they-work-for-everyone">striving to excel in their respective fields.</a>
What Happened: Cuban dismissed the idea of work-life balance during his conversation with Micah Parsons, a 26-year-old linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys. 
&#8220;People are like, &#8216;I need a work-life balance.&#8217; If you want to work 9-to-5, you can have work-life balance. If you want to crush the game, whatever game you&#8217;re in, there&#8217;s somebody working 24 hours a day to kick your ass,&#8221; Cuban said. 
Parsons, who expressed his desire to work &#8220;non-stop,&#8221; received Cuban&#8217;s support. Cuban asserted,&nbsp;&#8220;That&#8217;s not a sacrifice. That&#8217;s&nbsp;doing you. Not&nbsp;doing it would be a&nbsp;sacrifice.&#8221;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44348044/mark-cuban-reveals-what-hed-do-as-a-gen-zer-to-get-ahead-even-while-sleeping-if-i-was-16-18-20-21-starting-today-i-would-spend-every-waking-minute-learning-it">Mark Cuban Reveals What He&#8217;d Do As A Gen Zer to Get Ahead—Even While Sleeping: &#8216;If I Was 16, 18, 20, 21 Starting Today, I Would Spend Every Waking Minute Learning It&#8217;</a>
During <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XjOb3tmofUY">the</a> conversation, the Shark Tank star shared his own experience, revealing that he didn&#8217;t take a vacation for seven years after launching his first business in his mid-20s. 
Cuban spent his early career learning how to code in a dilapidated apartment, which eventually led to his current net worth of $5.7 billion, as per Forbes.
Why It Matters: Cuban&#8217;s views on work-life balance have sparked a debate, especially considering the increasing emphasis Gen Z workers place on work-life balance and job flexibility. 
While Cuban&#8217;s approach has been successful for him, critics warn of potential burnout and stress associated with such an intense work ethic.
Read Next
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Success Stories

Mark Cuban Challenges Concept of Work-Life Balance for High Achievers: Not Working 'Would Be a Sacrifice'

In a recent financial disclosure, it was revealed that the cryptocurrency venture and branded products linked to the family of President Donald Trump have generated an income exceeding $57 million for the president.
What Happened: The financial disclosure indicates that Trump&#8217;s investment in the crypto platform&nbsp;World Liberty Financial&nbsp;yielded him $57,355,532 last year, positioning it as one of his primary sources of income.
The decentralized finance (DeFi) platform, World Liberty Financial, was established&nbsp;in 2024 by Zach Witkoff,&nbsp;the son of Steve Witkoff who served as&nbsp;the president's envoy for Ukraine-Russia&nbsp;peace talks and Iran deal&nbsp;discussions. 
Trump&#8217;s&nbsp;three sons, Donald Jr., Eric,&nbsp;and Barron, are also among the co-founders.
According to the disclosure, and as reported <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/06/13/us-news/trump-raked-in-57m-income-from-family-crypto-firm-seven-figures-from-guitars-sneakers-watches-and-books-financial-disclosure/">by</a> The New York Post, Trump also received royalty payments from the sale of products bearing his name and image.
These include $3 million from&nbsp;the "Save America" coffee table&nbsp;book, $2.5 million from&nbsp;"Trump Sneakers and Fragrances," $2.8&nbsp;million from Trump-branded watches, $1,055,100 from&nbsp;his "45 Guitar" and $1,306,035&nbsp;from "The Greenwood Bible."
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45829416/trump-allegedly-calling-people-to-claim-elon-musk-has-serious-drug-problem-big-time-drug-addict">Trump Allegedly Calling People To Claim Elon Musk Has Serious Drug Problem: &#8216;Big-Time Drug Addict&#8217;</a>
An additional $1,057,490 was earned from a licensing agreement for Trump digital trading cards. 
The document also discloses over $700,000 in speaking engagement fees and reveals that Trump&#8217;s&nbsp;personal crypto wallet is valued&nbsp;between $1,000,001 and $5 million.
The White House has asserted that Trump&#8217;s assets, which were&nbsp;held in a trust managed&nbsp;by his children during his second term, do not pose&nbsp;a conflict of interest. 
The&nbsp;disclosure also enumerates over $100 million in mortgage loans and a&nbsp;$454 million civil fraud judgment, among other liabilities.
Why It Matters: The disclosure provides a glimpse into the financial activities of the former president, highlighting his significant involvement in the world of cryptocurrency. 
The success of World Liberty Financial underscores the growing acceptance and adoption of decentralized finance platforms. 
Furthermore, the substantial earnings from Trump-branded products demonstrate the enduring appeal of his personal brand, even after his presidency.
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Image: Shutterstock/Phil Mistry

Politics

Trump Made $57.4 Million From Family Crypto Firm — Plus Big Bucks From Branded Guitars, Sneakers and Watches

If you're still working past age 73 and wondering whether you need to take required minimum distributions, you're not alone. A recent question on the "<a href="https://omny.fm/shows/suze-ormans-women-and-money/ask-kt-suze-anything-what-do-i-do-if-i-forgot-to-start-taking-my-rmd">Women &amp; Money</a>" podcast brought this issue to light — and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/05/45708597/85000-investment-mistake-suze-orman-says-this-listener-should-exit-her-annuity-asap">Suze Orman</a> had plenty to say about it.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Listener's Dilemma: Still Working at 76</h2>
A listener named Janet wrote in with a common concern: She recently turned 76 and was told that as long as she's working full-time, she doesn't need to start RMDs. She's now considering retirement and wants to know what to do next.
Orman's answer depends on the type of retirement account Janet has.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Key Difference: Employer Plans vs. IRAs</h2>
According to Orman, the rules vary depending on whether your retirement savings are in an employer-sponsored plan or an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-to-open-an-ira">Individual Retirement Account</a>.
"If you&#8217;re working and the RMDs are from your employer&#8217;s plan, your 401K, 403 or [thrift savings plan], you do not have to start taking them at 73," Orman explained. These employer-sponsored accounts are exempt from RMDs until you retire — as long as you&#8217;re still employed by the company that sponsors the plan.
But the rule doesn't apply to IRAs.
"However, if you have any IRAs or you only have IRAs or whatever it may be, then that doesn&#8217;t apply," Orman said. "So if you have an SEP IRA, a simple IRA, and any of that, you have to take RMDs from the IRAs even if you are working full time."
So if Janet has money in an IRA and hasn't been taking her RMDs, she may already be behind.
Trending: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Missed an RMD? Here's What To Do</h2>
Missing an RMD doesn't automatically result in a steep penalty, but you'll want to act quickly. Orman suggests taking the missed distribution right away and working with a CPA to file the appropriate forms with the IRS.
"The IRS may waive the penalties entirely if she can show reasonable cause," she said. But timing and documentation matter, so professional help is recommended.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can You Still Contribute While Taking RMDs?</h2>
Another question came up on the podcast: If you're still working and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44083449/does-a-younger-spouse-change-your-rmds-or-retirement-withdrawals">taking RMDs</a>, can you also contribute to a retirement account?
The answer is yes — if you have earned income, you can still contribute to certain accounts. For example, if you're self-employed, you can contribute to a SEP IRA even while taking RMDs. In fact, you may be able to contribute a sizable amount and get a tax deduction.
However, Orman cautioned that just because you can contribute doesn't mean you should. "You might be better off just paying the taxes now and then investing that money in an individual brokerage account," she said, especially if you expect higher tax rates in retirement.
See Also: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bottom Line: Know Your Account Type</h2>
The most important thing is to understand what kind of retirement accounts you hold. If your money is in a 401(k) and you're still working for the company that sponsors it, you can likely delay your RMDs. But if your savings are in an IRA, the RMD clock starts ticking at 73 — regardless of your employment status.
When in doubt, it's best to consult with a CPA or <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-online-financial-advisors">financial advisor</a> who can help you navigate the rules and avoid costly mistakes.
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Image: Shutterstock

Do You Have To Take Out Required Minimum Distributions If You're Working Full-Time? Suze Orman Breaks It Down

Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>), a competitor to Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>), could potentially see a significant price surge due to a rise in whale activity, according to market intelligence firm&nbsp;Santiment.
Santiment&#8217;s <a href="https://insights.santiment.net/read/following-the-whales-watch-these-coins-8738">study</a> reveals that historically, large transactions by high-net-worth investors, often exceeding $100,000, have typically been followed by price peaks in digital assets. 
This trend was notably observed in December 2017&nbsp;when Bitcoin hit nearly $20,000&nbsp;for the first time.
While heightened whale activity could potentially indicate an upcoming price drop, Santiment asserts that this isn&#8217;t always the case. Wealthy investors often purchase during price dips, a trend that was observed during the Bitcoin crash in May 2021.
Santiment&#8217;s data suggests that Shiba Inu is currently&nbsp;in the midst of a&nbsp;rally driven by whales. The cryptocurrency saw a surge&nbsp;of 527 whale transactions on&nbsp;June 5, 2025, the highest in five months. Since then, its market value has increased by 10%.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/45029372/forget-dogecoin-and-shiba-inu-crypto-analyst-sees-this-coin-surging-100">Forget Dogecoin And Shiba Inu — Crypto Analyst Sees This Coin Surging 100%</a>
As of now, SHIB is trading at $0.000012,&nbsp;a 5.5% decrease on the&nbsp;day. Whale activity is a critical factor in the cryptocurrency market, often influencing price movements significantly. 
The recent surge in whale transactions for Shiba Inu suggests that high-net-worth investors are showing increased interest in this digital asset. If this trend continues, it could potentially lead to a significant price surge for SHIB, as predicted by Santiment.
However, it&#8217;s important to note that while increased whale activity can often precede price peaks, it can also signal an impending price crash. Investors should therefore exercise caution and closely monitor market trends.
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

Cryptocurrency

Markets

$DOGE

$SHIB

Shiba Inu on Verge of a Breakout as Whales Make Bold Moves

In the wake of a politically motivated shooting in Minnesota, President Donald Trump has released a statement expressing his concern. The attack was directed at two Democratic lawmakers.
What Happened: President Trump referred to the Minnesota incident as a &#8220;terrible shooting&#8221;. The attack, which targeted State Lawmakers, is currently under investigation by Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI.
Democratic State Sen.&nbsp;John Hoffman&nbsp;of Champlin and Minnesota state&nbsp;representative&nbsp;Melissa Hortman&nbsp;in Brooklyn Park were identified as the victims by Minnesota Governor&nbsp;Tim Walz&nbsp;(D). Hortman and her husband tragically lost their lives in the attack, while Hoffman and his wife are receiving treatment for multiple gunshot wounds.
The assailant, who posed as a police officer during the attack, is still on the loose. The suspect had a list of other officials and exchanged gunfire with police while fleeing Hortman's home. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45829416/trump-allegedly-calling-people-to-claim-elon-musk-has-serious-drug-problem-big-time-drug-addict">Trump Allegedly Calling People To Claim Elon Musk Has Serious Drug Problem: &#8216;Big-Time Drug Addict&#8217;</a>
Authorities have advised residents to only open the door for police if they are in pairs, as the suspect could still be impersonating law enforcement.
Attorney General Pam Bondi has assured that the &#8220;horrific violence will not be&nbsp;tolerated and will be prosecuted&nbsp;to the fullest extent of&nbsp;the law.&#8221;
Why It Matters: This incident marks a disturbing escalation in politically motivated violence. The attack has not only claimed lives but has also instilled fear in the community and among public officials. 
The fact that the suspect is still at large and could potentially target other officials adds to the gravity of the situation. 
The response from the authorities and the President will be crucial in ensuring public safety and restoring faith in the system.
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Trump Condemns 'Targeted Attack' On Minnesota Democratic Lawmakers: 'Terrible Shooting'

Elon Musk&#8216;s social media platform, X, is set to disrupt the financial media landscape with a reality TV show that allows viewers to invest in promising startups. The show, &#8220;Going Public,&#8221; is part of X&#8217;s original programming initiative and is scheduled to stream live on June 24.
What Happened: X&#8217;s new series &#8220;Going Public&#8221; provides viewers the chance to invest in startups featured on the show. This initiative is in line with X&#8217;s commitment to empowering smaller investors, a sentiment echoed by Brett Weitz, X&#8217;s content chief, earlier this year.
The final episode of the show, initially slated for June 13, was delayed after the news leaked online. The producers of &#8220;Going Public&#8221; expressed that they wanted to offer more to the viewers in the live finale.
As per the report <a href="https://www.barrons.com/articles/elon-musk-x-going-public-show-investing-startups-22478490">by</a> Barron&#8217;s, this initiative, however, might draw additional&nbsp;scrutiny for X, which has&nbsp;previously been accused of spreading misinformation on its platform. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/06/45829875/elon-musk-reportedly-slammed-into-scott-bessent-like-a-rugby-player-after-being-called-a-fraud-trump-said-this-is-too-much">Elon Musk Reportedly Slammed Into Scott Bessent &#8216;Like A Rugby Player&#8217; After Being Called a &#8216;Fraud&#8217;, Trump Said &#8216;This Is Too Much&#8217;</a>
The show is part of X&#8217;s new programming lineup that includes a talk show by Khloé Kardashian and a business program hosted by renowned crypto investor Anthony Pompliano.
Darren Marble, co-creator of &#8220;Going Public,&#8221; described the series as a mix of &#8220;Shark Tank&#8221; and &#8220;The Apprentice,&#8221; with a real-time investing element. The show&#8217;s producers have boldly claimed that they are &#8220;rewriting the rules&#8221; of financial media.
However, viewers are advised to exercise caution. Dutch Mendenhall and Amy Vaughn, founders of one of the featured startups, are currently&nbsp;under investigation by state and&nbsp;federal regulators, as per Barron&#8217;s.
Why It Matters: This move by X is a significant step in democratizing investment opportunities, allowing smaller investors to participate in startup funding. 
However, the platform&#8217;s past issues with misinformation could potentially cast a shadow over this initiative. 
The involvement of startup founders under investigation also raises concerns about the credibility of the investment opportunities presented on the show.
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Image: Shutterstock/Evolf

Elon Musk's X to Shake Up Financial Media With Reality TV Show

Plus Automation last week <a href="https://plus.ai/news-and-insights/plus-an-ai-based-virtual-driver-software-company-powering-factory-built-autonomous-trucks-to-go-public-via-merger-with-churchill-capital-corp-ix">announced</a> it would merge with special purpose acquisition company Churchill Capital Corp IX (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCIX#NASDAQ">CCIX</a>) that values the startup at $1.2 billion and brings $300 million in fresh capital for its push into <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/44809515/george-soros-cathie-wood-backed-autonomous-trucking-firm-kodiak-robotics-set-to-go-public-via-spac-merger-to-tap-4-trillion-market">autonomous trucking</a> by 2027.
According to Plus Automation, the merger provides the resources needed to scale its factory-integrated autonomous trucking model. After closing, the combined company will operate as PlusAI and prioritize deployment through its global original equipment manufacturer partnerships.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Advanced Virtual Driver Tech Plus Automation Preps for 2027 Launch</h2>
Plus Automation is led by a founding team of Stanford-trained PhD engineers and seasoned tech entrepreneurs, each with a history of building and scaling innovation-focused companies. CEO David Liu, now on his fourth startup, brings a consistent track record of growth across prior ventures, reinforcing investor confidence in the company's ability to execute, Plus Automation says.
Launched in 2016 from Silicon Valley, Plus Automation designed SuperDrive as an AI-based virtual driver for heavy-duty trucks. The company says that its system has already accumulated more than 5 million miles across the U.S., Europe, and Asia, forming a robust real-world dataset that underpins its neural-network engine.
In April, SuperDrive hit a crucial driver-out safety milestone, signaling readiness for commercial deployment. According to Plus Automation, public road trials are active in Texas and Sweden, with broader fleet testing slated for fall.
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Plus Automation's strategy leans heavily on factory integration rather than retrofitting existing trucks. That original equipment manufacturer-first model involves close collaboration with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45855866/hyundai-secures-one-year-rare-earth-minerals-supply-avoids-supply-chain-disruption-report">Hyundai</a>, TRATON Group, and Iveco to produce SuperDrive-enabled trucks at scale, Plus Automation says.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The $300M Capital Injection Fuels Capital-Light Rollout</h2>
Churchill Capital Corp IX, led by veteran financier Michael Klein, will provide up to $300 million from its trust account to finance Plus Automation's next growth phase. Plus Automation says that this injection is expected to fully fund the startup through its 2027 commercial launch without requiring additional equity raises.&nbsp;
The merger maintains a clean balance sheet for the combined entity and locks up existing Plus Automation shareholders for 180 to 360 days to reinforce long-term commitment. Plus Automation and its and Churchill IX's shareholders will hold one-vote shares to ensure governance alignment.&nbsp;
See Also: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Plus Automation is Transforming a $2 Trillion Industry with Physical AI</h2>
The European and U.S. trucking markets are valued at nearly $2 trillion, facing persistent shortages of around 300,000 drivers annually, the company says. Plus Automation plans to monetize via a per-mile "driver-as-a-service" model to generate high-margin recurring revenue. Physical AI solutions are gaining traction due to lighter regulations and growing demand for logistical efficiency.
Dealer interest is rising as governments across the U.S. consider easing safety rules for heavy autonomous vehicles. California's <a href="https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/news-and-media/california-dmv-releases-updated-autonomous-vehicle-regulations/">Department of Motor Vehicles</a> recently proposed testing heavy-duty self-driving trucks on public roads, marking an important regulatory shift.
Closing is expected in the fourth quarter, pending shareholder approvals, Plus Automation says.
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CCIX

Self-Driving Truck Startup Plus Goes Public In $1.2B SPAC Merger, Backed By Wall Street Titan Michael Klein And Hyundai

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>), the leading cryptocurrency globally, has recorded a 656% surge in its ongoing cycle.
As per data analytics company Glassnode, Bitcoin saw a rise of 1,076% from 2015 to 2018, a gain of 1,007% from 2018 to 2022, and in the current cycle that commenced in 2022, Bitcoin has already ascended 656%.
Even with Bitcoin&#8217;s considerably larger market capitalization today, pegged at $2.08 trillion, its performance in this cycle is nearly on par with the previous ones. 
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Despite much larger market cap today, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24BTC&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$BTC</a> current cycle&#39;s performance isn&#39;t far off from past ones: &#x1f535;2015–18: +1076% &#x1f7e2;2018–22: +1007% &#x26ab;&#xFE0F;2022+: +656% This suggests that demand growth is keeping pace with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a>&#39;s maturation &#8211; an impressive sign of sustained investor appetite. <a href="https://t.co/gbwJNBcxPX">pic.twitter.com/gbwJNBcxPX</a>
&mdash; glassnode (@glassnode) <a href="https://twitter.com/glassnode/status/1933796558660624409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
This implies that the growth in demand is matching Bitcoin&#8217;s maturation, indicating a consistent investor interest.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45335892/decade-old-bitcoin-whale-emerges-transfers-207-51-million-btc-with-nearly-112000-profit">Decade-Old Bitcoin Whale Emerges, Transfers $207.51 Million BTC With Nearly 112,000% Profit</a>
Glassnode highlights a unique dual aspect in the current Bitcoin cycle. There is a simultaneous occurrence of increased long-term holder (LTH) spending volumes and a larger volume of coins aging into maturity. This new market structure, where LTH wealth seems more resilient than in previous cycles, is likely influenced by the advent of U.S. Spot Bitcoin ETFs and increased institutional participation.
Bitcoin&#8217;s price has seen some volatility, dropping to a low of $100,377 on June 5, then rallying to a high of $110,651 on June 9, before profit-taking took place. 
At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading at $105,061, maintaining above the psychologically significant $100,000 mark, which signifies strong investor confidence.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44348215/bitcoin-whale-takes-332-million-short-position-heres-where-it-gets-liquidated" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin Whale Takes $332 Million Short Position, Here's Where It Gets Liquidated</a>

$BTC

Bitcoin's Current Cycle Sees A 656% Surge, Matching Market Maturation Pace

With U.S.–China trade tensions and Middle East unrest <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets">rocking global markets</a>, Latin America's stock exchanges &#8211; especially Brazil's Bovespa and Mexico's IPC &#8211; are hitting record highs as investors seek lower‑correlation havens. Brazil and Mexico's markets are shining as havens from Trump's tariff threats and Middle East chaos.
Here are three NYSE‑listed Latin American stocks offering compelling diversification, stable income, and macro resilience.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44991625/exclusive-these-emerging-markets-are-the-calm-in-the-tariff-storm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: These Emerging Markets Are The Calm In The Tariff Storm</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Vale SA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VALE#NYSE">VALE</a>)</h2>
Forward P/E Ratio: 5.66x
Dividend Yield (FWD): 14.44%
Why It's Hot: Brazil's mining titan is a commodity kingpin, fueled by iron ore and nickel demand for EVs and global infrastructure. With a dirt-cheap P/E of 5.66x &#8211; half the materials sector's 11x &#8211; Vale's a screaming value play. Its 14.44% dividend yield, backed by $7.8 billion in 2024 free cash flow, is a cash cow for income seekers. Analysts rate it Overweight, with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VALE/analyst-ratings">$14.08 consensus price target </a>(almost 50% upside from current levels).
Why Now: Vale's global client base makes it resilient during U.S.-China trade spats, and its high yield cushions against Middle East-driven volatility.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Ambev SA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABEV#NYSE">ABEV</a>)</h2>
Forward P/E Ratio: 13.53x
Dividend Yield (FWD): 6.23%
Why It's Hot: Latin America's beer giant, Ambev, is a defensive powerhouse, brewing steady profits regardless of global chaos. Its 6.23% dividend yield and 13.53x P/E &#8211; below the consumer staples sector's 17x &#8211; offer value and income. Fourth quarter revenue hit $4.2 billion (+8.3% YoY), with 20.1% operating margins reflecting efficiency. Moreover, there&#8217;s looming revenue growth potential for 2025, driven by Brazil's growing middle class and premium brands like Brahma.
Why Now: Ambev's stable cash flows thrive in risk-off markets, making it a safer bet as trade talks falter and Iran tensions spike.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">3. Cemex SAB de CV (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CX#NYSE">CX</a>)</h3>
Forward P/E Ratio: 10.56x
Dividend Yield (FWD): 1.21%
Why It's Hot: Mexico's cement leader, Cemex, is riding a wave of infrastructure demand in Mexico and the U.S., boosted by General Motors Co&#8216;s (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>) $4 billion U.S. plant investment. Its 10.56x P/E is a bargain compared to the construction sector's 15x. After slashing debt by 20% in 2024, Cemex generated $1.1 billion in free cash flow, supporting a reinstated 1.18% TTM dividend yiekd. Trading at $6.70 on Friday with a $7.42 target (10.75% upside), Cemex is a growth-value hybrid.
Why Now: Cemex's U.S.-Mexico exposure dodges China tariffs, and its cash flow stability counters Middle East market jitters.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why These Stocks Shine In 2025</h2>
Income and Value: Vale's 14.44% yield, Ambev's 6.23%, and Cemex's low P/E offer income and upside amid volatility.
Diversified Resilience: Vale's commodities, Ambev's staples, and Cemex's infrastructure span cyclical and defensive sectors, balancing risk.
Trade War Insulation: With minimal exposure to U.S.-China tariffs, these stocks thrive as Bovespa and IPC hit all-time highs.
With U.S.-China talks teetering and Iran-Israel tensions flaring, these Latin American stocks could just be offering diversification and value. 
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/latin-america/25/05/45545075/colombias-ecopetrol-eyes-1-3-gw-renewable-push-with-statkraft-agreement">Colombia&#8217;s Ecopetrol Eyes 1.3 GW Renewable Push With Statkraft Agreement</a></li>
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Latin America

Long Ideas

Trading Ideas

ABEV

VALE

Latin America's Hot Stocks: 3 NYSE Picks To Dodge Trade Wars, Mideast Mayhem

The Trump administration has reactivated the Alien Registration Act, a World War II-era law that requires all non-citizens in the U.S. to register with the government and provide fingerprints. This law has been inactive for the past 75 years.
What Happened: The enforcement of the Alien Registration Act commenced in April. Law enforcement agencies in Alabama, Arizona, Louisiana, Montana, Texas, and the District of Columbia have charged individuals with &#8220;failure to register&#8221; under the act, a charge unfamiliar to many federal public defenders.
As per the report <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/06/14/trump-administration-alien-registration-act-00403535">by</a> Politico, the majority&nbsp;of those charged were already&nbsp;in jail and undergoing deportation proceedings.
The law, established in 1940, was a response to public concerns about the loyalty of immigrants to the U.S. Non-compliance with the registration requirement is a &#8220;petty offense&#8221; attracting a maximum penalty&nbsp;of six months imprisonment or&nbsp;a $1,000 fine. 
The revival of this law by the Trump administration could place undocumented immigrants in a precarious situation. If they register, they are required to provide detailed&nbsp;information to the federal government, including their method and time of entry into the country. 
However,&nbsp;knowingly refusing to register is&nbsp;also a crime, punishable by&nbsp;arrest or prosecution.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45488790/poll-shows-trumps-approval-rating-underwater-on-nearly-everything-from-economy-to-abortion">Poll Shows Trump&#8217;s Approval Rating Underwater on Nearly Everything From Economy to Abortion</a>
The Department of Homeland Security&nbsp;(DHS) has indicated that one objective&nbsp;of the registration regime is&nbsp;to encourage undocumented immigrants to voluntarily leave the country, a strategy it refers to as &#8220;mass self-deportation&#8221;. 
This action, coupled with the administration&#8217;s&nbsp;invocation of the Alien Enemies&nbsp;Act and a more aggressive&nbsp;approach to immigration raids, is part of a broader campaign promise to implement&nbsp;the largest deportation program in&nbsp;U.S. history.
The&nbsp;DHS estimates that up to&nbsp;3.2 million immigrants are currently&nbsp;unregistered and&nbsp;affected by the new enforcement&nbsp;regime. 
The administration has introduced a new seven-page form for non-citizens to use for registration. Since the enforcement of the registration requirement began in April, 47,000 undocumented immigrants have&nbsp;registered using the new form.
Why It Matters: The enforcement of this dormant law marks a significant shift in the Trump administration&#8217;s approach to immigration. 
It underscores the administration&#8217;s commitment to its campaign promise of implementing&nbsp;the largest deportation program in&nbsp;U.S. history. The impact of this move on the lives of millions of undocumented immigrants remains to be seen.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44779739/oops-hes-alive-and-secure-trump-administration-updates-status-on-mistaken-deportation-to-el-salvador">White House Updates Status On Mistaken Deportation To El Salvador</a>
Image: Shutterstock/Artiom Photo

Trump Administration Enforces Long-Dormant World War II-Era Alien Registration Act

Some millionaires show off their wealth, but most of them live ordinary lives. They have practiced frugality and smart money habits for so long that their wealth has compounded to the seven-figure milestone.
A 40-year-old couple recently crossed the $1 million milestone despite looking like ordinary people, and they shared the details on Reddit. They don't drive luxury cars, live in a mansion, or do anything that you would expect from the stereotypical millionaire. After mentioning their financials, the couple shared <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/DaveRamsey/comments/1l4r9vf/40_year_old_bs_millionaire/">how they reached the milestone</a> and what others can do to achieve the same feat.&nbsp;
Don't Miss:
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<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – Many are rushing to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.30/share!</a></li>
</ul>
"We are by far one of the smallest homes on our street," the wife explained.
There's a lot to unpack in that statement and some of the other insights from the post.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Get Out Of Debt First</h2>
It's possible to build wealth once you get out of debt. The wife explains that she went into the marriage without any debt, and they worked together to pay off the husband's car and student loans after their first year of marriage.&nbsp;
Getting rid of debt allows you to focus on building wealth without worrying about interest accumulation. While some debt is good, such as a mortgage with a record-low interest rate, it's important to get rid of bad debt that isn't tied to assets, especially credit card debt.
The couple prioritized getting out of debt right away. This objective forces you to review your finances, get rid of unnecessary expenses, and look for ways to make additional income.
Trending: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Save And Invest Regularly</h2>
The couple didn't stop once they became debt-free. The wife explained that they aggressively saved and invested their money after the husband was debt-free. They have been married for 13 years, so they have been diligently saving and investing for 12 years.&nbsp;
Assuming they invested in stocks, the couple got to enjoy more than a decade of compounding growth. They even set up their 7-year-old son for college with a 529 savings plan.&nbsp;
The couple didn't go deep into credit card debt or invite bad money habits into their lives after getting out of debt. Some people get out of debt and then go right back into debt. Building financial discipline and recognizing the effort it takes to become debt-free can ensure that you don't end up falling into debt again.
See Also: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Live Below Your Means</h2>
Living below your means is a common strategy that can help you have a $1 million net worth earlier than your peers. The 40-year-old couple encouraged people to avoid lifestyle creep, but they went into detail about the measures they took to live within their means.
They have modest cars. One of them is a 2018 model, and the other car is a 2021 model. Both were used cars that the couple paid for with cash. Getting the latest car, taking out a lease, or buying luxury cars will add more expenses to your budget and limit your ability to grow wealth.
The couple also lives in a 1,800 square foot home that they say is one of the smallest homes on their street. They could afford a larger home, but opting for a smaller property reduces the monthly mortgage payments and other housing costs.&nbsp;
Read Next:
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<li>The average American couple has saved this much money for retirement —<a href="http://www.benzinga.com/money/smartasset"> How do you compare</a>?</li>
<li>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-peter-thiel-turned-his-roth-ira-into-5-billion-and-why-accredited-investors-are-now-eyeing-this-smartphone-disruptor">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.30/share!</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

A 40-Year-Old Couple With $1 Million Explains How They Reached The Milestone: 'We Are By Far One Of The Smallest Homes On Our Street'

A social media account that tracks pizza shop activity near the Pentagon reportedly forecast Israel&#8217;s military strikes against Iran.
What Happened: The Pentagon Pizza Report, a social media account that keeps tabs on&nbsp;real-time foot traffic at pizza&nbsp;shops in the vicinity of the Pentagon, suggested that officials were working late hours at the government building, potentially hinting at an impending conflict. 
The account reported increased activity at four local pizza outlets hours before Israel launched Operation Rising Lion.
The report states that the strikes occurred late Thursday evening. The account kept posting updates about the nearest and second-nearest Domino&#8217;s to the Pentagon before and after the airstrikes.&nbsp;
<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">With about an hour left before close, the 2nd closest Dominos to the Pentagon (about 8 min drive) is experiencing EXTREMELY high levels of traffic compared to a normal Thursday at about 11:00pm ET. <a href="https://t.co/TnItUDysyq">pic.twitter.com/TnItUDysyq</a>
&mdash; Pentagon Pizza Report (@PenPizzaReport) <a href="https://twitter.com/PenPizzaReport/status/1933359798122119612?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
A post at 8:57 p.m.&nbsp;reported a spike in traffic at one of the outlets.
Not just Domino&#8217;s, the account also monitored activity at&nbsp;Freddie&#8217;s Beach Bar and District&nbsp;Pizza Palace in the area.&nbsp;It reported&nbsp;&#8220;high levels of traffic&#8221; compared&nbsp;to a typical Thursday.&nbsp;The Pentagon Pizza Report has&nbsp;a following of over 50,000 and its posts garner nearly millions of views.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45933856/iran-fires-ballistic-missiles-at-israel-tel-aviv-struck">Iran Fires Ballistic Missiles At Israel, Tel Aviv Struck</a>
Post the event, the account shifted its focus to pizza shops near the White House, informing followers about another significant increase in activity at the closest Domino&#8217;s.
Why It Matters: This unusual method of predicting significant international events highlights the potential of unconventional data sources in forecasting geopolitical events. 
The Pentagon Pizza Report, through its tracking of pizza shop activity, was able to anticipate a major military operation hours before it was initiated. This incident underscores the importance of diverse data points in understanding and predicting global events. 
The account&#8217;s large following and the millions of views its posts attract also indicate the public&#8217;s interest in such unconventional sources of information.
While this method may not replace traditional intelligence gathering, it certainly adds a new dimension to the field. 
The Pentagon Pizza Report&#8217;s success in predicting &#8220;Operation Rising Lion&#8221; could inspire similar initiatives that leverage unconventional data sources to predict major events.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/market-summary/25/06/45922513/global-markets-slide-as-iran-israel-conflict-heats-up-oil-soars">Global Markets Slide As Iran-Israel Conflict Heats Up, Oil Soars</a>
Image: Shutterstock/Rawpixel.com

Intel Clues Hidden in Pizza Orders? Pentagon Orders Surged Just Before Israel Hit Iran

As gold teases all-time highs, peaking at <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/guidance/25/06/45928561/gold-biggest-boom-in-decades-and-investors-are-still-missing-out">$3,446 an ounce on Friday</a> and logging its best half-year rise in more than 40 year, investors are scrambling into ETFs to join the party. Yet as several gold ETFs have tracked the metal&#8217;s rocket-like run, a more fundamental question is rising to the surface: Are these ETFs designed for the type of crisis driving gold&#8217;s rise?
That is, can your gold ETF really save you when it counts?
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">When Safe-Haven Investing Gets Technical</h2>
Gold&#8217;s rally this year has been fueled by a powerful combination of Middle East tensions, U.S. fiscal instability, and weakening dollar. But in the midst of all the macro upheaval, investors in ETFs might be overlooking an important nuance: the structural strength of their gold holdings.
On the surface, highly traded ETFs such as the SPDR Gold Shares (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLD#NYSE">GLD</a>), iShares Gold Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IAU#NYSE">IAU</a>), abrdn Physical Gold Shares ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SGOL#NYSE">SGOL</a>), and SPDR Gold MiniShares Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GLDM#NYSE">GLDM</a>) appear to be identical. They all aim to track the price of gold, have low expense ratios, and are traded with lots of liquidity. However, beneath the surface, the distinctions might prove fatal in an actual crisis situation.
Consider storage, for instance. GLD holds much of its gold in the <a href="https://www.spdrgoldshares.com/media/GLD/file/GLD-8K-Nov30-2022.pdf?">vaults </a>of HSBC in London, subject to UK law. SGOL <a href="https://www.onegold.com/etfs/sgol?">holds </a>its bullion in Zurich and London, and IAU has <a href="https://www.ishares.com/us/literature/prospectus/p-ishares-gold-trust-prospectus-12-31.pdf?">vaults </a>in New York, Toronto, and London. During times of peace, this is a small asterisk. During wartime, or during sanctions, sovereign freezes, or bank disruptions, geography of the vault can be the weak spot or secret advantage of an ETF.
Also, not all ETFs have the same redemption rights. GLD permits large institutions to trade shares for real bullion, but individual investors can&#8217;t. SGOL has more transparency in auditing and bar listings, and while GLDM is less expensive, it&#8217;s less accommodating in redemption and verification.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Liquidity Vs. Ownership</h2>
And then there&#8217;s the derivative problem. Certain &#8220;gold&#8221; ETFs don&#8217;t own any physical gold at all, opting for futures or swap contracts instead, subjecting investors to counterparty risk, particularly in times of market stress. Invesco DB Precious Metals Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DBP#NYSE">DBP</a>) and ProShares Ultra Gold (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UGL#NYSE">UGL</a>) are examples of such speculative funds, constructed more for short-term tactical use than long-term crisis protection.
To investors leveraging gold as a hedge against monetary breakdown, this makes all the difference. A futures-backed gold ETF can track price beautifully, until liquidity evaporates or the roll cost is unsustainable.
Global central banks are voting with their vaults. They've bought over 1,000 tonnes of gold in the last year, according to the World Gold Council, cited in a Bloomberg <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-06-03/gold-market-s-record-breaking-rally-powered-by-central-bank-buying?sref=TBDibEcD">report</a>, and now hold bullion equivalent to 18% of outstanding U.S. public debt—up from 13% a decade ago.
That&#8217;s had a long shadow over Treasuries and the dollar, and might drive more institutional money into physical gold exposure. If it does, ETFs that stockpile actual bullion, not promises to deliver bullion, might be the next best thing.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Know Your Gold</h2>
As gold charges toward $3,500, and possibly even $4,000 by mid-2026, according to Goldman <a href="https://www.cnbctv18.com/market/commodities/gold-prices-today-down-two-factors-may-hold-it-up-19605598.htm">projections</a>, ETF investors need to peer past the shiny charts.
Price is only part of the equation. In a time of geopolitical uncertainty, structural transparency, redemption rights, and vault geography may be what distinguishes gold ETFs that glitter from those that merely shine.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table class="has-fixed-layout">
<thead>
<tr>
<th>ETF</th>
<th>Structure</th>
<th>Storage Location</th>
<th>Redeemable for Gold?</th>
<th>Expense Ratio</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>GLD</th>
<th>Physical</th>
<th>HSBC vault, London (U.K.); New York (U.S.A.); Zurich (Switzerland)</th>
<th>Yes (institutions only)</th>
<th>0.40%</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>IAU</th>
<th>Physical</th>
<th>New York (U.S.A.), Toronto (Canada), Zurich (Switzerland) vaults</th>
<th>Yes (institutions)</th>
<th>0.25%</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>SGOL</th>
<th>Physical</th>
<th>Zurich (Switzerland), London (U.K.)</th>
<th>Yes</th>
<th>0.17%</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>GLDM</th>
<th>Physical</th>
<th>London (U.K.) —smaller bars</th>
<th>Limited</th>
<th>0.10%</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<th>UGL</th>
<th>Derivatives</th>
<th>N/A (futures-based)</th>
<th>No</th>
<th>0.95%</th>
</tr>
</thead>
</table>
<figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Key Gold-Backed ETFs – At a Glance </figcaption></figure>

Specialty ETFs

Commodities

ETFs

GLDM

SGOL

Are Gold ETFs Really A Hedge During A Geopolitical Crisis? Here's What To Check Before Investing

In a move that has sparked bipartisan criticism, President Donald Trump has proposed a 51% reduction in the budget of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The proposal, staunchly defended by HUD Secretary Scott Turner, is being scrutinized for its potential implications for millions of Americans.
What Happened: According to a report, Turner justified the proposed $45 billion cut to HUD&#8217;s funding before the House subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development this week. The budget cut forms a part of Trump&#8217;s strategy to eliminate $163 billion in federal spending.
Turner was grilled by both Democrats and Republicans about the agency&#8217;s plans to continue serving&nbsp;older, disabled, and low-income Americans,&nbsp;as well as those recovering from disasters or experiencing homelessness. 
Turner clarified,&nbsp;&#8220;The goal here is not&nbsp;to serve less Americans. The&nbsp;goal here is to serve&nbsp;Americans better.&#8221;
Rep. David Joyce (R-Ohio) questioned the agency&#8217;s ability to assist disaster victims if it slashes funding for the Community Development Block Grant — Disaster Recovery program. Turner assured Joyce that HUD &#8220;will not allow disaster recovery and those that need assistance in disaster recovery to be lost on us.&#8221;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42716239/where-to-invest-here-are-the-top-10-us-housing-market-hot-spots-for-2025">Where To Invest? Here Are The Top 10 US Housing Market Hot Spots For 2025</a>
Democratic lawmakers voiced their apprehensions about the proposed cuts to homelessness services, including the elimination of the Housing for Persons with AIDS program, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/trump-wants-slash-housing-funds-in-half-even-republicans-questioning-2025-6">reports</a> Insider. Turner countered that the agency isn&#8217;t merely cutting funding but is &#8220;going to be more effective and more efficient.&#8221;
Despite the president&#8217;s budget proposal, the final decision on the federal budget rests with Congress.&nbsp;Government funding is set to&nbsp;expire in September.
Why It Matters: The proposed budget cut to HUD is a significant part of Trump&#8217;s broader plan to reduce federal spending. 
However, the bipartisan concern it has raised underscores the potential impact on vulnerable sections of the American population. The final decision will be crucial in determining the future of housing and urban development in the country.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44885312/for-sale-but-no-takers-the-us-housing-markets-awkward-standoff">For Sale, But No Takers: The US Housing Market&#8217;s Awkward Standoff</a>
Image: Shutterstock/Mark Van Scyoc

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