Cathie Wood-led Ark Invest made significant trades on Thursday, focusing on major companies like Alibaba Group Holding Ltd (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BABA">BABA</a>), Baidu Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BIDU">BIDU</a>), Brera Holdings PLC (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/BREA">BREA</a>) and Kodiak AI Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/KDK">KDK</a>). These trades reflect Ark&#8217;s strategic positioning in the tech and innovation sectors.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Alibaba Trade</h2>



Ark Invest&#8217;s flagship fund, ARK Innovation ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ARKK">ARKK</a>), acquired 14,453 shares of Alibaba on Thursday. This purchase comes as Alibaba&#8217;s stock surged past its 52-week high, closing at $189.34. The trade is valued at approximately $2.74 million. 



The rise in Alibaba&#8217;s stock is attributed to its mapping and local services platform, Amap, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/47991681/whats-fueling-alibaba-stocks-jump-past-its-52-week-high">reaching a record 360 million daily users</a> during China&#8217;s National Day holiday. This milestone, along with new AI-driven features, has significantly boosted investor confidence. 



Notably, Ark scooped up <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/10/47986035/cathie-wood-bets-big-on-chinese-ai-ark-buys-alibaba-and-baidu-in-back-to-back-days-dumps-shopify-despite-recent-openai-rally">$5.5 million worth of Alibaba shares</a> on Wednesday and $4.1 million worth on Tuesday.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Baidu Trade</h2>



On the same day, ARKK also purchased 45,478 shares of Baidu, valued at around $6.4 million, with the stock closing at $140.23. 



Baidu&#8217;s Apollo Go robotaxi business is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/09/47892997/baidus-apollo-go-targets-global-growth-to-compete-with-waymo-tesla">expanding globally</a>, targeting markets like Australia and Southeast Asia. This expansion is part of Baidu&#8217;s strategy to compete with giants like Waymo and Tesla. Baidu&#8217;s recent achievements include securing 50 trial licenses in Dubai, allowing the company to expand its fleet to approximately 100 cars in the UAE. 



On Wednesday, Ark purchased $2.97 million worth of Baidu shares, and on Tuesday, it bought $6.9 million worth.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Brera Holdings Trade</h2>



Ark Invest decided to sell 44,209 shares of Brera Holdings from its ARKK fund, with the stock closing at $25.20. The sale is valued at approximately $1.1 million. 



Brera Holdings recently experienced a substantial rally after announcing a Solana (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/sol/usd">SOL</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/09/47755144/brera-holdings-becomes-solmate-records-225-jump-after-announcing-solana-treasury-strategy-rally-simmers-down-after-hours">treasury strategy</a>, which saw its shares jump before a pullback. 



The Wood-backed firm jetisoned $2.5 million worth of Brera Holdings stock on Wednesday, and<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/09/47959260/cathie-woods-china-bet-ark-buys-alibabas-ai-surge-and-baidus-autonomous-future-dumps-stock-of-crypto-pivot-brera"> $6.6 million worth of shares</a> were sold on Tuesday. Last month, Ark invested $162 million in Brera Holdings by buying 6,500,001 shares.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Kodiak AI Trade</h2>



In a notable move, ARK Autonomous Technology &amp; Robotics ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ARKQ">ARKQ</a>) purchased 190,165 shares of the George Soros-backed Kodiak AI valued at about $1.3 million, with the stock closing at $6.83. 



Kodiak AI surged 14.6% on Thursday following a disclosure from Soros Fund Management that it had built a 5.7% passive position in the company. The stake amounts to roughly 9.97 million shares, compared with Kodiak AI's 174.96 million shares outstanding.



This acquisition, by Ark Invest, follows <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/09/47833926/george-soros-backed-kodiak-robotics-merger-funding-announcement-fuels-6-after-hours-rally-in-this-spac-stock">recent news</a> of Kodiak Robotics&#8217; merger funding announcement, which included backing from Soros Fund Management and Ark Investments. The funding package for the merger exceeds $275 million, highlighting significant investor interest in Kodiak&#8217;s autonomous vehicle technology.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Other Key Trades</h2>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Sold 40,353 shares of Roku Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/ROKU">ROKU</a>) from ARKK and 24,429 shares from ARKW.</li>
</ul>



Benzinga's Edge Stock Rankings indicate Alibaba shares have a Momentum in the 85th percentile. Here is how the stock is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">ranked on other parameters.</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="435" height="312" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/02210126/Screenshot-2025-10-03-at-10.01.07.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1096875" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/02210126/Screenshot-2025-10-03-at-10.01.07.png 435w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/02210126/Screenshot-2025-10-03-at-10.01.07-300x215.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 435px) 100vw, 435px" /></a></figure>



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/10/47987041/golds-parabolic-surge-very-unusual-says-popular-crypto-trader-peter-schiff-says-precious-metal-could-hit-20000">Gold&#8217;s Parabolic Surge &#8216;Very Unusual,&#8217; Says Popular Crypto Trader: Peter Schiff Says Precious Metal Could Hit $20,000</a></li>
</ul>



Photo: ChrisStock82 / Shutterstock.com



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

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Cathie Wood Hitches A Ride On George Soros-Backed Driverless Truck Company Kodiak AI, Doubles Down On China AI Bets Alibaba And Baidu

Benzinga examined the prospects for <a href="http://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">many investors' favorite stocks</a> over the last week — here's a look at some of our top stories.



Wall Street climbed to fresh record highs this week, as rising expectations for imminent Fed rate cuts countered fears surrounding the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. Tech and AI-related names — led by Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NVDA">NVDA</a>) — continued to power gains, supporting broader market strength.



With the shutdown delaying key economic releases (including the jobs report), market participants leaned heavily on sentiment and forward rate expectations. Despite the political and fiscal uncertainty, investors remained sanguine, seemingly placing more weight on the prospect of easier monetary policy.



Looking ahead, markets will focus on how long the shutdown endures, whether delayed data will validate or undercut expectations for rate cuts, and whether the Fed will reinforce its independence amid political pressures.



Benzinga provides daily reports on the stocks most popular with investors. Here are a few of this past week's most bullish and bearish posts that are worth another look.







The Bulls



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/48003763/intel-stock-rallies-50-over-the-last-month-governments-stake-nearly-doubles-to-16-billion">"Intel stock rallies 50% over the last month — government's stake nearly doubles to $16 billion"</a>, by Erica Kollmann, reports that Intel Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/INTC">INTC</a>) surged roughly 50% in the past month while the U.S. government's roughly 10% stake — acquired earlier this year — has increased in value to about $16 billion, bolstering investor confidence.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/10/48006353/rumble-stock-jumps-on-strategic-partnership-with-perplexity?utm_source=chatgpt.com">"Rumble stock jumps on strategic partnership with Perplexity"</a>, by Adam Eckert, reports that Rumble Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RUM">RUM</a>) rallied after announcing a strategic partnership with Perplexity, which will integrate Perplexity's AI-powered tools into Rumble.com, launch a subscription bundle, and promote Perplexity's new "Comet" browser across the Rumble ecosystem.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/10/48019438/trending-quantum-stocks-rigetti-and-d-wave-are-popping?utm_source=chatgpt.com">"Trending quantum stocks — Rigetti and D-Wave are popping"</a>, by Erica Kollmann, reports that Rigetti Computing Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/RGTI">RGTI</a>) and D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/QBTS">QBTS</a>) led a surge in quantum stocks after gaining traction on social media — Rigetti scored ~$5.7 million in new purchase orders for its Novera systems, and analysts at B. Riley raised targets — while sector peers IonQ (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/IONQ">IONQ</a>) and Quantum Computing (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/QUBT">QUBT</a>) also rallied.



For additional bullish calls of the past week, check out the following:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/10/48025504/iren-stock-hits-all-time-high-still-a-picasso-at-a-garage-sale">IREN Stock Hits All-Time High — Still A ‘Picasso At A Garage Sale'</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/previews/25/10/47979965/magnificent-7-set-to-power-stocks-higher-in-q4-market-expert-says-stick-with-whats-working">Magnificent 7 Set To Power Stocks Higher In Q4, Market Expert Says: ‘Stick With What's Working'</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/earnings/25/09/47956357/nike-stock-jumps-on-q1-earnings-beat-we-still-have-work-ahead">Nike Stock Jumps On Q1 Earnings Beat: ‘We Still Have Work Ahead'</a>







The Bears



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/entertainment/25/09/47948618/draftkings-stock-sinks-despite-major-nbcuniversal-sports-advertising-partnership?utm_source=chatgpt.com">"DraftKings stock sinks despite major NBCUniversal sports advertising partnership"</a>, by Akanksha Bakshi, reports that DraftKings Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/DKNG">DKNG</a>) announced a multi-year exclusive sports advertising and integration deal with NBCUniversal covering major leagues and events — yet the stock dropped over 10% as investors mulled the maneuver against stiff competitive pressures in the online gaming industry.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/10/47967651/netflix-stock-slides-as-musk-calls-on-followers-to-cancel-subscriptions?utm_source=chatgpt.com">"Netflix stock slides as Musk calls on followers to ‘cancel' subscriptions"</a>, by Adam Eckert, reports that Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NFLX">NFLX</a>) shares dropped after Elon Musk urged his followers on X to cancel their Netflix subscriptions, citing content objections and positioning the call as a protest for "the health of your kids."



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/10/48018068/palantir-and-anduril-under-fire-over-armys-high-risk-battlefield-tech?utm_source=chatgpt.com">"Palantir and Anduril under fire over Army's ‘high risk' battlefield tech"</a>, by Anusuya Lahiri, reports that a U.S. Army internal memo flagged fundamental security vulnerabilities in the NGC2 battlefield communications prototype co-developed by Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PLTR">PLTR</a>) and Anduril, warning the system should be considered "very high risk" due to gaps in user access control, software integrity, and data logging.



For more bearish takes, be sure to see these posts:



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/10/48007507/applied-materials-stock-is-sliding-after-hours-heres-why">Applied Materials Stock Is Sliding After Hours: Here's Why</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/entertainment/25/10/47975604/disneys-17-million-monthly-loss-how-jimmy-kimmel-suspension-impacts-streaming-revenue">Disney's $17 Million Monthly Loss: How Jimmy Kimmel Suspension Impacts Streaming Revenue</a>



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/10/48025536/shiller-pe-ratio-2025-ai-boom-not-a-bubble">The Last Time This Signal Flashed, Stocks Cratered — It's Back Now</a>







Keep up with all the latest breaking news and trading ideas by following <a href="https://twitter.com/Benzinga" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga</a><a href="http://twitter.com/Benzinga" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> on X</a>.



Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.

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Benzinga Bulls And Bears: Intel, Rumble, DraftKings — And Markets Shrug Off The Shutdown

From the potential impact of a government shutdown on the stock market to the future of AI companies and the gold mining industry, here are the top stories that shaped the week&#8217;s financial news.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Government Shutdown: S&amp;P 500&#8217;s Historical Trends Hint At Unexpected Outcome</h3>



Despite the looming threat of a government shutdown, the stock market might not react as expected. In the past 11 shutdowns, the S&amp;P 500, as represented by the Vanguard S&amp;P 500 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/VOO">VOO</a>), actually experienced gains in eight of them. The average increase was 1.46% over seven days surrounding the events.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/09/47921017/government-shutdown-sp500-performance-impacts-economy-historical-trends">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Markets Today: Robinhood Soars, Oil Dips, Gold Defies Gravity</h3>



The week commenced with modest gains in technology and growth sectors on Wall Street. The S&amp;P 500 inched up 0.3% to 6,660, while the Nasdaq 100 led the major indexes with a 0.6% rise. This was amid investor anticipation for a flood of economic data, culminating in the September labor market report on Friday.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/09/47924408/markets-today-monday-wall-street-robinhood-carnival-kellanova-gold-oil-prices">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Stock Market Today: S&amp;P 500, Nasdaq Futures Rise Amid Government Shutdown</h3>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/09/47921017/government-shutdown-sp500-performance-impacts-economy-historical-trends" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Think Shutdowns Crash Stocks? The S&amp;P 500 Has Other Plans &#8211; Benzinga</a>



On Friday, U.S. stock futures surged, following record gains on Thursday. Despite the government shutdown, Wall Street remained unfazed, with AI-led optimism propelling the markets higher. Most S&amp;P 500 sectors saw a decline on Thursday, but the information technology and communication services sectors advanced.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/10/48012007/stock-market-today-nasdaq-dow-futures-gain-on-3rd-day-of-shutdown-rumble-riggeti-kodiak-in-focus">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">AI Tech Layoffs: U.S. Labor Market Trending Downward</h3>



The U.S. tech labor market has been on a downward trend, with major firms implementing cutbacks post-pandemic. Despite the AI hype and the rise of OpenAI, hiring within the sector and beyond has remained frozen. This has resulted in a significant gap between capital flows and actual hiring.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/48025432/us-labor-market-ai-tech-layoffs">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gold Miners Undervalued Despite Historic Rally</h3>



Gold mining stocks have experienced a remarkable rally, with some companies seeing nearly 200% gains year-to-date. Despite this, a leading macro strategist believes the sector is still significantly undervalued and is poised for historic profit margins. The sector&#8217;s Price-to-Earnings (P/E) ratios have actually contracted, indicating that mining stocks are growing faster than share prices.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities/25/10/47991184/gold-miners-remain-undervalued-despite-stellar-rally-expert-says-they-are-set-to-post-highest-profit-margins-in-history">here</a>.



Read Next:&nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/48025432/us-labor-market-ai-tech-layoffs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI Companies Are Burning Billions, Tech Workers Are Getting Wrecked —And Wall Street Doesn&#8217;t Care &#8211; Benzinga</a></li>
</ul>



Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Macro Notification

Market Summary

Economics

Government Shutdown, Gold Miners, AI Layoffs And More: This Week In Economy

In the middle of a surgery, a Texas plastic surgeon got a call she never expected—not from a family member, not from a referr­ing physician, but from the patient's insurance provider. The question: was the overnight hospital stay truly justified? That moment has lit a fuse in healthcare circles, exposing the tension between care and cost.



Dr. Elisabeth Potter, a board-certified reconstructive surgeon in Austin specializing in breast cancer care, says the call came while a patient lay under anesthesia. In a <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTM6V3Hdx/">now-viral TikTok</a> from January, she opened with: "It's 2025 and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45458113/mark-cuban-blasts-health-insurance-companies-as-the-worst-of-the-worst-says-it-should-be-criminal-to-charge-5k-deductibles-to-people-making-25k">insurance just keeps getting worse</a>."&nbsp;



Don't Miss:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?</li>



<li>Have $100k+ to invest? Charlie Munger says that's the toughest milestone — don't stall now. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wiseradvisor-retirement-planning">Get matched with a fiduciary advisor and keep building</a></li>
</ul>



According to Potter, during one of her DIEP flap surgeries, a nurse interrupted and showed her a note: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/insights/analyst-ratings/25/09/47509310/breaking-down-unitedhealth-group-21-analysts-share-their-views">UnitedHealthcare</a> had allegedly called to demand the patient's diagnosis and to justify whether her inpatient stay was warranted. Potter says she scrubbed out, dialed back, and was met with confusion:



"I said, ‘Do you understand she's asleep right now and she has breast cancer?'" Potter recalled. "And the gentleman replied, ‘Actually I don't—that's a different department that would know that information.'"



<a href="https://www.foxnews.com/health/surgeon-shares-story-insurance-provider-calling-during-patients-surgery">Potter told Fox News Digital</a> she feared that the call was a precursor to a denied claim—and perhaps a $80,000–$100,000 bill falling on her patient.&nbsp;



Trending: Backed by $300M+ in Assets and Microsoft's Climate Fund, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/farmland-lp">Farmland LP</a> Opens Vital Farmland III to Accredited Investors



In early February, <a href="https://www.allure.com/story/elisabeth-potter-united-healthcare">"Allure" reported</a> that UnitedHealthcare in a statement called Potter's claims false, saying the surgery and overnight stay had already been approved and that it would never expect a surgeon to step out mid-procedure.



That split in narratives is exactly what's fueling debate in health and finance circles: how much operational control insurers should have over clinical decisions—and what happens when that control crosses into the surgical suite.



Beyond one dramatic episode, this controversy exposes structural risks in America's healthcare system. Prior authorization and coverage review policies already cost providers time and money. In Potter's case, things escalated from administrative hoops to a real-time clash. Colleagues have backed her, saying hundreds of providers face similar pressure without the spotlight.&nbsp;



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mark-cubans-advice-for-lotto-winners">Many are surprised by Mark Cuban's advice for lotto winners: Cash or annuity?</a>



And this isn't just about one operation. After her video went viral, Potter alleges that UnitedHealthcare refused to allow her new surgery center to be part of its in-network network—something she sees as retaliation for speaking out.&nbsp; She also received a demand letter from a law firm asking her to retract statements or face legal consequences.&nbsp;



From a financial perspective, her story spotlights the friction when insurance companies act like gatekeepers of care. Their cost control strategies can tip into real-time intervention—and in doing so, risk accountability when things go wrong. Institutional and investor scrutiny over insurer practices is rising, especially as health costs climb and public trust wanes.



Read Next: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.



Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

Doctor Claims UnitedHealthcare Called Mid Surgery To Ask If Inpatient Stay Was Justified For Patient —'Do You Understand She's Asleep Right Now?'

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) on Thursday blasted President Donald Trump's new university compact, a proposal that would give colleges priority for federal grants if they adopt sweeping policy changes. Newsom said the offer weaponizes Washington's purse strings.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Newsom Threatens State Funding Over Proposed Compact</h2>



"IF ANY CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY SIGNS THIS RADICAL AGREEMENT, THEY'LL LOSE BILLIONS IN STATE FUNDING — INCLUDING CAL GRANTS — INSTANTLY. CALIFORNIA WILL NOT BANKROLL SCHOOLS THAT SELL OUT THEIR STUDENTS, PROFESSORS, RESEARCHERS, AND SURRENDER ACADEMIC FREEDOM," Newsom said in a public statement.



According to an Associated Press <a href="https://apnews.com/article/trump-political-agenda-colleges-federal-money-756407729a3b16c7bb51564d5056084c">report</a>, the "Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education" was sent to nine universities, including the University of Southern California and officials have indicated more schools could be invited later. Signers would get preferred access to "substantial" grants and other partnerships, while non-signers would still be eligible for federal money, officials said.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump&#8217;s Compact Promises Preferential Federal Grants</h2>



Under the 10-point memo, universities would pledge to foster "a vibrant marketplace of ideas," freeze tuition for five years and limit foreign undergraduate enrollment to 15%, among other steps. The document also urges institutional neutrality and changes to units viewed as hostile to conservative viewpoints.



See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/48009672/trump-in-talks-to-appear-on-cbs-60-minutes-just-months-after-securing-eye-watering-16-million-settlement-report">Trump in Talks To Appear On CBS&#8217; 60 Minutes Just Months After Securing Eye-Watering $16 Million Settlement: Report</a>



The White House casts the plan as voluntary and aimed at elevating standards and viewpoint diversity. But, as per the AP report, critics across higher education, including Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education, call it political coercion that intrudes on academic freedom and governance.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Court Ruling And Broader Funding Leverage</h2>



Newsom's pushback comes as Trump has increasingly used <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/education/25/09/47492021/trump-admin-freeze-on-2-2-billion-harvard-grants-undone-by-federal-judge-antisemitism-was-used-as-a-smokescreen">federal funding as leverage</a> to prod universities to adopt his administration's priorities.



Separately, a Reuters report states that a federal judge on Sept. 22 ordered the Trump administration to restore more than $500 million in research funding it paused for the University of California, Los Angeles, ruling that termination notices lacked sufficient justification. UCLA said the decision also triggered the reinstatement of hundreds of grants across UC campuses.



Trump, this week, also revealed that his administration has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/education/25/10/47961795/trump-announces-500-million-tentative-deal-with-harvard-to-end-bitter-feud-their-sins-are-forgiven">reached a preliminary agreement</a> with Harvard University, potentially bringing an end to the long-standing conflict between the two parties.



Photo Courtesy: Sheila Fitzgerald on Shutterstock.com



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<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/10/48010216/kamala-harris-says-project-2025-was-trumps-blueprint-to-seize-unchecked-power-and-now-hes-implementing-it-in-front-of-our-eyes">Kamala Harris Says Project 2025 Was Trump&#8217;s &#8216;Blueprint To Seize Unchecked Power&#8217; And Now He&#8217;s Implementing It In &#8216;Front Of Our Eyes&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>

Politics

Gavin Newsom Says He'll Cut 'Billions In State Funding' To 'Sell Out' Universities That Sign Trump's 'Radical Agreement'

A <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/05/45441791/nvidia-scores-big-as-trump-brokers-major-ai-export-pact-with-uae-and-us-tech-giants">multibillion-dollar deal</a> for Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NVDA">NVDA</a>) to supply advanced AI chips to the UAE has been stalled for months, reportedly frustrating CEO Jensen Huang as U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick pushes Abu Dhabi to finalize investments before shipments proceed.



Nvidia's market cap has reached $4.59 trillion, with shares climbing 58.97% over the past year and advancing 36.61% in 2025 to date. On Thursday, the stock rose 0.91%, according to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag">Benzinga Pro</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Deal Faces Unexpected Delays</h2>



The agreement, announced in May, was meant to showcase the White House's push to expand U.S. tech influence abroad while countering China's AI ambitions.



However, the Emirati investments have yet to materialize, baffling some administration officials, <a href="https://www.wsj.com/politics/policy/nvidia-trump-uae-chip-deal-delay-c49aaa5c">reported</a> the Wall Street Journal, citing people familiar with the matter.



The stalled deal is seen as a setback for Huang and White House AI Czar David Sacks, who view such agreements as crucial to advancing U.S. tech strategy and maintaining an edge over <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/09/47489424/china-solves-ais-biggest-bottleneck-u-s-faces-power-grid-crisis-that-goldman-warns-could-severely-choke-growth">China in the AI race</a>.



"Sacks and Secretary Lutnick are integral to the President's AI agenda and are working diligently to get deals done on behalf of the American people," White House spokesman Kush Desai told the publication.



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/09/47492041/mitch-mcconnell-says-trump-tariffs-ushered-era-has-similarities-with-the-1930s-this-is-the-most-dangerous-period-since-before-world-war-two" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mitch McConnell Says Trump Tariffs-Ushered Era Has ‘Similarities' With The 1930s</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Security Concerns Over UAE-China Ties</h2>



The Commerce Department's approval is required before Nvidia can deliver the chips.



Lutnick has conditioned approval on the UAE finalizing its U.S. investments, while also raising concerns about the Gulf nation's close relationship with China, the report added.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nvidia Execs And CEO Jensen Huang's Frustration</h2>



Huang and Nvidia executives have privately expressed frustration over the delays, the sources said.&nbsp;



One senior Nvidia executive denied that the company is alarmed, the report added. An Nvidia spokesperson told <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga</a> in an emailed statement that the company supports the Trump administration's AI action plan, including the Middle East agreements. "Look forward to providing any assistance they need." The Commerce Department did not immediately respond to <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/lxquj26b2sag">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Broader AI Strategy</h2>



The UAE deal was touted by President Donald Trump during his May visit to Abu Dhabi, part of what the White House said was more than $200 billion in bilateral agreements.



The UAE pledged to fund U.S. data centers for AI training while purchasing billions in Nvidia chips.



For now, the deal remains stuck, with one official saying at least $1 billion in investments and chips could still be exchanged by year's end.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">UAE Aims To Become Global AI Hub With OpenAI Collaboration</h2>



Last week, UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed met OpenAI CEO Sam Altman in Abu Dhabi to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/09/47906232/openai-ceo-sam-altman-meets-uae-president-sheikh-mohammed-to-collaborate-on-ai-research">discuss AI collaboration</a>. The talks focused on building an integrated AI ecosystem to support the UAE's development goals.&nbsp;



Separately, in July, it was reported that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TSM">TSM</a>) is reportedly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/06/45716922/taiwan-semiconductor-eyes-uae-gigafab-seeks-crucial-us-green-light">considering building a six-factory</a> gigafab in the UAE, pending U.S. regulatory approval due to the Gulf nation's ties with China and Iran.



Benzinga's Edge Stock Rankings rank Nvidia's growth in the 97th percentile, showing its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">performance relative to other top AI companies</a> like TSMC and AMD.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/02232301/Screenshot-2025-10-03-at-8.40.14%E2%80%AFAM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1096982"/></a></figure>



Read next:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/05/45687166/apple-may-see-fewer-searches-in-safari-but-google-ceo-sundar-pichai-insists-ai-is-fueling-overall-query-growth-far-from-a-zero-sum-game" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apple May See Fewer Searches In Safari, But Google CEO Sundar Pichai Insists AI Is Fueling Overall Query Growth: ‘Far From A Zero-Sum Game&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>



Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.



Photo courtesy: jamesonwu1972 / Shutterstock.com

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Reportedly Frustrated As Trump's Commerce Secretary Slows UAE Chips Deal Over China Link

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AAPL">AAPL</a>) had a busy week with a series of events that could potentially impact the company&#8217;s future. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the latest news surrounding the tech giant.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Apple&#8217;s App Store Revenue Jumps 10%</h3>



Apple&#8217;s App Store revenue soared by 10% in the September quarter, reaching $8.7 billion. The growth was accompanied by a 2.5% rise in downloads, which reached 9 billion. The company also witnessed a shift in revenue mix, with categories like Productivity and Photo &amp; Video showing steady growth. This trend indicates a long-term demand for AI-powered apps.



Analyst Timothy Arcuri believes that the App Store&#8217;s strong performance is a sign of Apple&#8217;s potential for future growth. Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GOOG">GOOG</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GOOGL">GOOGL</a>) also experienced a 10% increase in its app store revenue.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/10/48019634/apple-app-store-revenue-jumps-10-analyst-sees-ai-app-diversification-driving-long-term-growth">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Apple Purges ICE Tracking Apps After Pam Bondi&#8217;s Warning</h3>



Apple removed all apps that allowed users to track and report the location of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers from its App Store. The app, ICEBlock, was developed in April and allowed users to track the location of ICE officers and receive notifications if they were within a five-mile radius.



Apple decided to remove the app and similar ones from the App Store due to safety risks. This decision followed a warning from former Florida Attorney General&nbsp;Pam Bondi, who called the tracking apps a &#8220;red line that cannot be crossed.&#8221;



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/48011545/apple-purges-ice-tracking-apps-after-pam-bondis-warning-red-line-that-cannot-be-crossed">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gene Munster Says Vision Pro Looks Like iPhone-Maker&#8217;s Biggest Miss Since Newton</h3>



Apple reportedly paused work on a cheaper Vision Pro headset to focus on smart glasses development. Bloomberg&#8217;s Mark Gurman reported that Apple brought the development of its lighter, cheaper Vision Pro model to a stop. This model was slated for release in 2027.



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/09/47821171/energy-stocks-plug-power-fuelcell-bloom-stocks-surge-hydrogen-power" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Energy Stocks Surge On AI Hype: Plug, FuelCell, Bloom &#8211; Benzinga</a>



Analyst&nbsp;Gene Munster&nbsp;believes that this move could be Apple&#8217;s biggest miss since the Newton. However, he also predicts that Apple&#8217;s push will deliver glasses that likely outshine those of Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/META">META</a>).



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/47987525/gene-munster-says-vision-pro-looks-like-iphone-makers-biggest-miss-since-newton-apples-push-will-deliver-glasses-that-likely-outshine-metas">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">iPhone 17 Outsells On Speed, Not AI Hype: Analyst</h3>



Apple is experiencing strong momentum for its iPhone 17 Series, driven by loyal users upgrading to premium models. The sustained demand for high-end devices and steady growth in wearables and services underscore the company&#8217;s resilience.



Despite shifting consumer priorities and global risks, JPMorgan&#8217;s latest annual consumer survey indicates a strong upgrade cycle for the iPhone 17 Series, with existing iPhone users driving volumes. However, interest from Android switchers is softer compared to last year.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/10/47979556/iphone-17-outsells-on-speed-not-ai-hype-analyst">here</a>.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">What Happened: Apple Hit With Federal Lawsuit Over Store Manager&#8217;s Harassment Of Jewish Employee</h3>



Apple Inc. is facing a federal lawsuit after a U.S. agency accused the company of religious discrimination and retaliation against a Jewish employee who says he was harassed and ultimately fired.



Despite the decline, the stock is still up 4.42% year-to-date. On Tuesday, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed the complaint in the Alexandria, Virginia, federal court.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/47960788/apple-hit-with-federal-lawsuit-over-store-managers-harassment-of-jewish-employee">here</a>.



Read Next:&nbsp;



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45965931/geoffrey-hinton-says-be-a-plumber-if-you-want-to-have-a-safe-job-godfather-of-ai-says-everyone-doing-mundane-intellectual-labor-will-be-replaced" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Geoffrey Hinton Says Be A &#8216;Plumber&#8217; If You Want To Have A Safe Job, &#8216;Godfather Of AI&#8217; Says Everyone Doing &#8216;Mundane Intellectual Labor&#8217; Will Be Replaced</a></li>
</ul>



Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Tech

AAPL

GOOG

GOOGL

App Store Revenue Jumps 10%, ICE Tracking Apps Purged, Federal Lawsuit And More: This Week In Appleverse

Wall Street soared to fresh record highs at the end of the week, brushing aside the 21st U.S. government shutdown in history and a missing jobs report, as investors doubled down on bets for interest rate cuts and cheered strong gains in pharmaceutical and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech">AI-driven tech stocks.</a>



PFE is trading in a tight range. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PFE" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Check the full analysis here.</a>



The S&amp;P 500, Nasdaq 100, Dow Jones Industrial Average and Russell 2000 all reached record highs on Friday, as traders largely ignored the budget impasse in Washington and focused instead on corporate optimism and monetary easing.



The Bureau of Labor Statistics failed to publish its monthly jobs report on Friday due to the shutdown, but markets leaned heavily on private data pointing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/economic-data/25/10/48018419/shutdown-jobs-report-delay-federal-reserve-interest-rate-outlook">to labor market softening.</a>



The ADP Employment Report showed the largest private-sector job loss in over two years, while the ISM Services PMI recorded its fourth consecutive month of contraction in its employment component.



These signs reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve could lower again its benchmark rate to 3.75%-4% at its October meeting, further fueling risk appetite.



Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/analyst-color/25/10/48016326/big-tech-ai-spending-shifts-to-debt">Amazon, Meta Beware: The AI Spending Boom Is Pushing Tech Firms Into A Debt Spiral</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Health Care Stocks Notch Best Rally In Years</h2>



Healthcare stocks were among the top performers. Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PFE">PFE</a>) soared after striking a landmark deal with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/10/47982920/healthcare-stocks-trump-pfizer-deal-what-includes-why-it-matters">President Donald Trump&#8216;s administration.</a>



The agreement commits Pfizer to apply most-favored-nation pricing — aligning U.S. Medicaid drug prices with the lowest prices paid by other developed nations. In exchange, the company will avoid tariffs on branded drugs for three years.



Additionally, Pfizer pledged a $70 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing and will participate in TrumpRx.gov, a new government-backed drug discount platform.



The deal is seen as a possible template for the rest of the pharmaceutical industry. Shares of Eli Lilly &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/LLY">LLY</a>), Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TMO">TMO</a>), Merck &amp; Co. Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/MRK">MRK</a>) and Amgen Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AMGN">AMGN</a>) all logged double-digit gains over the week.



The AI-driven tech rally rolled on, with NVIDIA Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NVDA">NVDA</a>) hitting a staggering $4.6 trillion market capitalization, driving the total value of the so-called Magnificent Seven tech giants to $21 trillion.



Risk appetite spilled into speculative assets as well. Bitcoin climbed above $121,000, nearing its August highs.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Automakers Diverge</h2>



Shares of Michigan automakers saw a mixed performance. General Motors Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/GM">GM</a>) fell 3% despite EV sales doubling from 2024, Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/F">F</a>) rose 5% and Stellantis N.V. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/STLA">STLA</a>) surged 14% as sales rose after eight quarters of declines.



GM, Ford and Stellantis reported year-over-year sales growth of 8%, 8.2% and 6%, respectively, in the latest quarter.



Read Now:



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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/10/47975777/sp-500-enters-its-best-quarter-of-the-year-5-stocks-to-watch-october">S&amp;P 500 Enters Its Best Quarter Of The Year: 5 Stocks To Watch This Month</a></li>
</ul>



Photo: Shutterstock

Health Care

Movers

Trading Ideas

AMGN

STLA

Wall Street Hits Record Highs As Rate Cut Bets Offset Shutdown: This Week In Markets

Donald Trump has been at the center of some significant events this week. Here&#8217;s a quick recap of the top political stories that unfolded over the weekend.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nearly 100,000 Federal Workers Set To Resign</h2>



Approximately 100,000 federal employees are expected to resign from their positions, marking the largest mass resignation of government employees in U.S. history. The resignations, scheduled for Tuesday, are part of a program initiated by President Donald Trump at the beginning of his second term. The resignations coincide with a crucial funding deadline for Congress, with the White House instructing federal agencies to prepare for extensive layoffs if a deal is not reached.



Read the full article <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/09/47941305/nearly-100000-federal-workers-set-to-resign-in-largest-mass-resignation-in-us-history-report">here</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Congressman Misses Out On 67% Gains Selling Intel Stock Early</h2>



The U.S. Government took a 10% stake in semiconductor company&nbsp;Intel Corporation&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/INTC">INTC</a>). With the stock up over 50% since the stake was taken, President Donald Trump is gaining praise. One member of Congress may be wishing they held on to shares a bit longer.



Read the full article <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/10/48026416/congressman-misses-out-on-67-gains-selling-intel-stock-early-heres-how-much-he-could-have-made">here</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tesla, Rivals Brace For EV Market &#8216;Collapse&#8217;—Thanks To Trump</h2>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/10/48010388/gavin-newsom-says-hell-cut-billions-in-state-funding-to-sell-out-universities-that-sign-trumps-radi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Gavin Newsom Says He&#8217;ll Cut &#8216;Billions In State Funding&#8217; To &#8216;Sell Out&#8217; Universities That Sign Trump&#8217;s &#8216;Radical Agreement&#8217;</a>



Tesla, Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/TSLA">TSLA</a>) and other automakers are grappling with what could be a sharp disruption to the EV market after federal subsidies that had helped sustain demand have expired. Executives warn that the removal of these incentives could trigger a sudden decline in sales, posing a significant challenge for companies that have invested billions in electrification.



Read the full article <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/10/47996067/tesla-rivals-brace-for-ev-market-collapse-thanks-to-trump">here</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump Kickstarts &#8216;New Gold Rush&#8217; Nano Nuclear CEO Says</h2>



The Trump administration&#8217;s decision to integrate nuclear energy into national security planning and AI data infrastructure marks a fundamental shift in the way America views nuclear power and supercharges the industry. CEO of Nano Nuclear Energy Inc. James Walker told Benzinga what the changes mean for his company and the nuclear energy industry as a whole.



Read the full article <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/09/47928659/trumps-energy-push-kickstarts-new-gold-rush-nano-nuclear-ceo-says">here</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">USA Rare Earth Stock Jumps On White House Talks</h2>



USA Rare Earth, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/USAR">USAR</a>) stock climbed on Friday in premarket trading as investors digest comments from the CEO confirming the company is in discussion with the Trump administration. USA Rare Earth shares climbed sharply after CEO Barbara Humpton told CNBC the company is in regular talks with the White House, sparking speculation about a possible deal.



Read the full article&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/10/48015198/usa-rare-earth-stock-jumps-on-white-house-talks-will-trump-take-a-stake">here</a>.



Read Next:&nbsp;



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<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/48025432/us-labor-market-ai-tech-layoffs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI Companies Are Burning Billions, Tech Workers Are Getting Wrecked —And Wall Street Doesn&#8217;t Care</a></li>
</ul>



Photo courtesy: Shutterstock



Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

TSLA

USAR

Congressman Misses Out On 67% Intel Gains, 100K Federal Workers To Resign And More: This Week In Politics

The past weekend was a rollercoaster ride in the world of cryptocurrencies. Ripple&#8217;s chief technology officer announced his retreat from daily company involvement, Dogecoin extended its winning streak, and Bitcoin received a million-dollar prediction.



Let&#8217;s dive into the details.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ripple CTO Steps Back, XRP Hits $3</h2>



David Schwartz, the CTO of Ripple, announced his decision to step back from daily responsibilities, while continuing to serve on Ripple&#8217;s board. Following this announcement, Ripple&#8217;s XRP touched the key $3 level. CEO Brad Garlinghouse praised Schwartz for his significant contributions to Ripple, the XRP Ledger, and the broader blockchain ecosystem.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/10/48003512/xrp-hits-3-as-ripple-cto-david-schwartz-announces-retreat-from-daily-company-involvement">Read the full article here.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dogecoin Extends Winning Streak</h2>



The meme coin,&nbsp;Dogecoin, extended its winning streak last week, with a 14% increase. The rally heated up the derivatives market, with open interest in DOGE futures jumping over 19% in a week.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/10/48010548/dogecoin-extends-winning-streak-up-14-in-a-week-analyst-says-memecoin-shaping-up-nicely-for-a-bigger-move">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/03/37763988/pro-bitcoin-president-nayib-bukele-says-el-salvador-will-purchase-btc-daily-until-king-cry" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pro-Bitcoin President Nayib Bukele Says El Salvador Will Purchase BTC Daily Until King Crypto Becomes &#8216;Unaffordable With Fiat Currencies&#8217;</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bitcoin Could Hit $1 Million</h2>



Telegram CEO Pavel Durov predicted that&nbsp;Bitcoin could reach $1 million, citing the continuous printing of fiat money and Bitcoin&#8217;s fixed supply. Durov believes that Bitcoin&#8217;s fixed issuance makes it the &#8220;ultimate means of exchange.&#8221;



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/10/47967780/bitcoin-could-hit-1-million-because-governments-keep-printing-money-like-no-tomorrow-telegr">Read the full article here.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ray Dalio Expresses Skepticism About Bitcoin</h2>



Billionaire hedge fund manager Ray Dalio expressed doubts that central banks would consider holding Bitcoin as a reserve currency, citing privacy concerns. Dalio believes that the public nature of all Bitcoin transactions and the risk of government controls make it less effective.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/10/48009909/ray-dalio-doubts-any-central-bank-would-take-on-bitcoin-as-reserve-currency-despite-many-seeing-it-as-alternative-money-theres-no-privacy">Read the full article here.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Dan Ives Announces International Tour</h2>



Dan Ives, Chairman of&nbsp;Eightco Holdings Inc., announced his upcoming international tour to promote World Network. Ives also revealed the company&#8217;s plan to acquire 800 million World Network (WLD) tokens, worth $992 million currently, as part of its "Power of 8" program.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/10/47960163/dan-ives-announces-international-tour-to-promote-world-network-eightco-chair-targets-992-million-wld-acquisition">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/10/48024831/shiba-inu-up-6-in-1-week-but-its-just-the-accumulation-phase" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shiba Inu Up 6% In 1 Week—But It&#8217;s Just The &#8216;Accumulation Phase&#8217;</a>



This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/ananya-gairola" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ananya Gairola</a>

$BTC

$ETH

Weekend Round-Up: Ripple CTO Steps Back, Dogecoin Rises And Bitcoin's Million-Dollar Prediction

The past week has been a rollercoaster ride in the tech and auto industry. From&nbsp;Tesla Inc. making headlines with its Cybertrucks in Las Vegas to&nbsp;Nissan Motor Co.&nbsp;recalling its Leaf EVs, there&#8217;s a lot to catch up on. Let&#8217;s dive into the top stories of the week.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Las Vegas Police Department Gets Customized Cybertrucks</h2>



In a surprising turn of events, the Las Vegas Metro Police Department is now the proud owner of 10 Tesla Cybertruck vehicles. These vehicles, generously donated by billionaire venture capitalist Ben Horowitz, co-founder of Andreessen Horowitz, have been customized and delivered to the department.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/47985178/las-vegas-police-department-gets-customized-cybertrucks-it-will-stop-bullets">Read the full article here.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Nissan Recalls 19,000 Leaf EVs Over Battery Fire Risk</h2>



Nissan Motor Co. Ltd has issued a recall for 19,077 units of its entry-level Leaf EV over a potential fire risk. The recall affects units from the 2021 and 2022 model years equipped with a Level 3 Quick Charging port. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has advised owners to avoid Level 3 charging until the battery software is updated by dealers free of charge.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/48012501/nissan-to-recall-19000-leaf-evs-in-us-over-battery-fire-risk">Read the full article here.</a>



See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/09/47778041/joby-archer-eve-race-for-first-mover-advantage-in-the-100b-flying-taxi-market" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joby, Archer, Eve: Race For First-Mover Advantage In The $100B Flying Taxi Market</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tesla&#8217;s Sales Fall Over 25% In Italy</h2>



Tesla Inc. is facing a significant sales slump in the European region, with sales in Italy falling by over 25.6% in September. According to data from Italy&#8217;s transport ministry, Tesla sold over 1,450 units in the region during September, capturing over 1.1% of the total market share.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/eurozone/25/10/47988671/teslas-european-woes-continue-as-new-car-sales-fall-over-25-in-italy">Read the full article here.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FAA Faces Furlough Of 11,000 Employees Amid Shutdown Threat</h2>



The U.S. Transportation Department announced that over 11,000 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) employees could face furloughs if government funding lapses. This potential furlough represents about a quarter of the FAA's workforce. U.S. airlines have expressed concerns that a partial federal government shutdown could disrupt American aviation and delay flights.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/09/47959894/faa-faces-furlough-of-11000-employees-airlines-warn-of-delays-amid-shutdown-threat">Read the full article here.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tesla Reports 19.3K New Insured Registrations In China</h2>



Despite the sales slump in Europe, Tesla Inc. recorded the highest week of the quarter in terms of Chinese sales. The EV giant recorded 19.3K new insured registrations during the week of September 22 – September 28, according to data shared on social media.



<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/09/47936822/tesla-reports-19-3k-new-insured-registrations-in-china-quarterly-total-stands-at-over-165k-units">Read the full article here.</a>



Read Next:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/48027001/heres-how-many-vehicles-tesla-has-delivered-produced-in-each-quarter-since-2019-3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Here&#8217;s How Many Vehicles Tesla Has Delivered, Produced In Each Quarter Since 2019</a></li>
</ul>



Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga



Photo Courtesy: IMAGN

Weekend Round-Up: Tesla's Cybertrucks Hit Las Vegas, Nissan Recalls Leaf EVs And More

Each week, Benzinga&#8217;s Stock Whisper Index uses a combination of proprietary data and pattern recognition to showcase five stocks that are just under the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/stock-whisper-index" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">surface and deserve attention</a>.



Investors are constantly on the hunt for undervalued, under-followed and emerging stocks. With countless methods available to retail traders, the challenge often lies in sifting through the abundance of information to uncover new opportunities and understand why certain stocks should be of interest.



Read Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/10/47974588/exclusive-septembers-20-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-where-do-apple-palantir-opendoor-tesla-rank"> EXCLUSIVE: September&#8217;s 10 Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro — Where Do Apple, Palantir, Opendoor, Tesla Rank?</a>



Here's a look at the Benzinga Stock Whisper Index for the week ending October 3:



Nokia Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NOK">NOK</a>): The telecom equipment company saw interest surge during the week among Benzinga readers. Formally known as one of the largest phone companies, Nokia has changed over the years. The company recently signed a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/10/47990493/nokia-teams-up-with-hpe-to-prepare-for-6g-future">global licensing deal </a>with Hewlett Packard Enterprise to expand the company's networking capabilities for the shift from 5G to 6G. Nokia said its customers will benefit from the deal, which improves the company's AI-driven automation. Nokia also recently partnered with Super Micro Computer to expand AI and cloud infrastructure. The increased interest in Nokia also comes ahead of third quarter earnings, set for Oct. 23. Analysts expect earnings per share of 6 cents per share and revenue of $5.39 billion for the quarter. Nokia has had mixed results in recent quarters with earnings missing analyst estimates in three of the last four quarters and revenue beating estimates in two of the last three quarters.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent100325&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="504" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174605/Screenshot-590.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1098575" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174605/Screenshot-590.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174605/Screenshot-590-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174605/Screenshot-590-768x388.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>



Alcoa Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/AA">AA</a>): The aluminum company saw increased interest from readers, which comes after the company reported a company update. Alcoa <a href="https://news.alcoa.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2025/Alcoa-Announces-Closure-of-Kwinana-Refinery-Also-Updates-Third-Quarter-2025-Outlook/default.aspx">announced </a>it will permanently close the Kwinana Refinery and take an $890 million charge. The company updated that its 2025 total spending for asset retirement obligations and environmental reserves will be $20 million higher than originally expected, totaling $260 million. The 2026 total is expected to be around $300 million. Alcoa is set to report third-quarter financial results on Oct. 22. The company has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in four of the last five quarters and beaten analyst estimates for revenue in four of the last six quarters.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent100325&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="510" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174620/Screenshot-591.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1098576" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174620/Screenshot-591.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174620/Screenshot-591-300x153.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174620/Screenshot-591-768x392.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>



Howmet Aerospace (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/HWM">HWM</a>): The aerospace company saw strong interest from readers during the week, which comes with shares trading near all-time highs. The company announced it will report third-quarter financial results on Oct. 30. Analysts are expecting earnings and revenue to grow on a year-over-year basis. The company has beaten analyst estimates for earnings per share in 10 straight quarters and beaten revenue estimates in eight of the last 10 quarters overall. With consistent growth and analyst beats, the stock is likely one to watch ahead of quarterly results.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent100325&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="993" height="499" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174635/Screenshot-592.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1098577" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174635/Screenshot-592.png 993w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174635/Screenshot-592-300x151.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174635/Screenshot-592-768x386.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 993px) 100vw, 993px" /></a></figure>



TD SYNNEX Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/SNX">SNX</a>): The IT company gained interest from readers after a recent quarterly beat and acquisition. TD SYNNEX completed its acquisition of Gateway Computer, a deal that it says will boost its global footprint. The company said it expects the deal to help it book new business in Japan. Gateway Computer will also begin using the TD SYNNEX global footprint for business expansion. The company beat analyst estimates for both earnings per share and revenue in the third quarter, reported on Sept 25. The company has beaten analyst estimates for each earnings per share and revenue in four of the last five quarters. Multiple analysts<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings/price-target/25/09/47893844/td-synnex-analysts-boost-their-forecasts-following-upbeat-q3-results"> raised their price targets </a>for the stock after the earnings beat.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent100325&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="997" height="506" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174650/Screenshot-593.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1098578" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174650/Screenshot-593.png 997w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174650/Screenshot-593-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174650/Screenshot-593-768x390.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 997px) 100vw, 997px" /></a></figure>



Cloudflare Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/NET">NET</a>): The software company may have attracted new readers and investors after its recent announcement. Cloudflare said it <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/09/47873086/cloudflare-unveils-net-dollar-stablecoin-to-power-agentic-web">plans to launch </a>a U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin called "NET Dollar." The stablecoin would be used to enable secure payments for AI agents to make transactions. The company said this will help with "agentic web," helping software agents to act on a user's behalf to make purchases, handle subscriptions and access data. Cloudflare highlighted that the token could help support microtransactions at scale. Given growing interest in AI and stablecoins, Cloudflare's latest endeavor could be one to watch.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent100325&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="999" height="505" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174704/Screenshot-594.png" alt="" class="wp-image-1098579" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174704/Screenshot-594.png 999w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174704/Screenshot-594-300x152.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/03174704/Screenshot-594-768x388.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 999px) 100vw, 999px" /></a></figure>



Stay tuned for next week&#8217;s report, and follow Benzinga Pro for all the latest headlines and <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent100325&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">top market-moving stories here.</a>



Read the latest Stock Whisper Index reports here:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/09/47538258/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-81" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">September 5</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/09/47656308/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-82" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">September 12</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/09/47779296/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-83" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">September 19</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/09/47904964/benzingas-stock-whisper-index-5-stocks-investors-secretly-monitor-but-dont-talk-about-yet-84">September 26</a></li>
</ul>



Read Next:



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/25/07/46236448/exclusive-2025s-first-half-most-searched-tickers-on-benzinga-pro-where-do-nvidia-tesla-apple-stock-rank" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EXCLUSIVE: 2025's First Half Most-Searched Tickers On Benzinga Pro — Where Do Nvidia, Tesla, Apple Stock Rank?</a></li>
</ul>

Exclusives

Benzinga's 'Stock Whisper' Index: 5 Stocks Investors Secretly Monitor But Don't Talk About Yet

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