L'intérêt à découvert pour ECD Automotive Design donne aux investisseurs une idée du degré auquel les investisseurs parient sur la baisse de l'action de ECD Automotive Design. Les données sur l'intérêt à découvert sont mises à jour toutes les deux semaines.

ECD Automotive Design (NASDAQ:ECDA) Stock, Rapport sur les intérêts à découvert

ECD Automotive Design

ECD Automotive Design Inc is a custom-car builder in the Restomod sector with a focus on British classic motor vehicles of various models of both two-door and four-door styles. The company has established a facility geared towards producing the majority customized Land Rovers with the highest quality of parts and the highest quality labor force building each vehicle. ECD restores Land Rovers Defenders, Land Rover Series IIA, the Range Rover Classic and the Jaguar E-Type. It upgrade any engine, including Chevrolet V8's, Land Rover V8's, Cummins diesel engines and new electric drivetrains, performing all the necessary body work, drivetrain selection and installation, every stitch in the interior, paint work, up to placement of the last nut and bolt.

Private equity giant Blackstone Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BX#NYSE">BX</a>) has reportedly withdrawn from a high-profile <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/social-media/25/06/46160115/donald-trump-drops-hint-about-potential-tiktok-buyer-but-keeps-details-close-to-his-chest">investor group vying</a> for TikTok's U.S. operations.
Check out the current price of <a href="https://benzinga.com/quote/bx">BX stock here</a>.
What Happened: Blackstone exited a consortium led by Susquehanna International Group and General Atlantic, both existing investors in ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, reported Reuters, citing people familiar with the matter.
The group had emerged as the frontrunner to acquire TikTok's U.S. business under a plan backed by President Donald Trump.
The Chinese social media giant, which generated $43 billion in revenue during the first quarter of this year, has recently overtaken Meta in quarterly earnings, the report added, citing sources.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/management/25/07/46264668/elon-musks-father-says-he-warned-his-son-against-going-into-politics-hes-not-a-very-good-politician-at-all" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk's Father Says He Warned His Son Against Going Into Politics – ‘He's Not a Very Good Politician At All'</a>
Why It&#8217;s Important: The deal, which would have granted U.S. investors an 80% stake in a new American TikTok entity, was intended to satisfy a U.S. law passed in April 2024 that mandates ByteDance either divest TikTok or face a nationwide ban by Jan. 19, 2025.
However, progress has stalled amid <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45988862/trump-extends-tiktok-divestment-deadline-again-says-xi-will-ultimately-approve-the-deal-amid-stalled-us-spinoff-talks">repeated deadline extensions</a> and pushback from Beijing.
In June, Trump issued a third executive order extending the divestment deadline to Sept. 17. Chinese regulators have reportedly objected to the proposed spin-off, especially following Trump's announcement of sweeping new tariffs on Chinese imports.
The deal's unraveling could jeopardize the future of TikTok in the U.S., a market where it boasts over 150 million users. With Trump expected to raise the issue directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping, the platform's fate may <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46267944/tiktok-to-roll-out-new-us-app-as-trump-says-we-pretty-much-have-a-deal-report">hinge on diplomacy</a> as much as regulation.
Price Action: On Friday, shares of Blackstone dipped 2.19% during regular trading but edged up 0.17% in after-hours trading, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0717">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Benzinga's Edge Stock Rankings indicate that BX maintains steady upward momentum across short, medium and long-term timeframes. Although it performs well on momentum, its growth rating remains comparatively weaker. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-4/#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">More detailed performance metrics can be found here</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-4/#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/19024506/Screenshot-2025-07-19-at-12.13.14%E2%80%AFPM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-992420" /></a></figure>
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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

Blackstone Backs Out Of TikTok US Deal As Trump Deadline Looms, China Opposition Mounts: Report

Perplexity AI, backed by Nvidia Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) is negotiating with mobile manufacturers to pre-install its Comet browser on smartphones.
What Happened: This move aims to expand Perplexity&#8217;s user base by leveraging the tendency of users to stick with pre-installed browsers, according to a Reuters report.
CEO Aravind Srinivas, during a conversation with Reuters, highlighted the challenge of persuading original equipment manufacturers to switch from default browsers like Chrome to Comet.
Subscribe to the<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe"> Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Currently in beta for desktops, Comet integrates Perplexity&#8217;s AI, enabling users to interact with personal data and perform tasks like scheduling meetings.
Perplexity plans to target millions of users in the coming year after stabilizing the desktop version. OpenAI is also<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/11/42130303/chatgpt-parent-openai-considers-building-its-own-web-browser-to-challenge-googles-search-monopoly-following-doj-push-to-break-up-chrome-dominance"> developing an AI browser</a> capable of automating complex tasks.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46487092/as-trump-axes-ev-incentives-elon-musks-tesla-announces-new-offers-amid-sluggish-us-sales">As Trump Axes EV Incentives, Elon Musk&#8217;s Tesla Announces New Offers Amid Sluggish US Sales</a>
As of last month, Google&#8217;s Chrome held a 70% market share in mobile browsers, with Apple&#8217;s Safari and Samsung&#8217;s browsers together holding 24%, according to StatCounter.
In June, a Bloomberg News report revealed that Perplexity was in discussions with Samsung Electronics and Apple Inc. to integrate its AI search features into their devices, potentially enhancing assistants like Bixby and Siri.
Why It Matters: The development of the Comet browser by Perplexity AI comes after <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46335291/google-rejected-perplexitys-request-to-become-a-default-search-engine-option-on-chrome-ai-startup-fires-back-with-comet-browser">Google rejected its request</a> to become a default search engine option on Chrome "a long time ago." This rejection prompted Perplexity to create its own browser, as stated by CEO Aravind Srinivas.
In addition, Apple has shown interest in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46041473/apple-eyes-perplexity-ai-acquisition-while-facing-shareholder-lawsuit-over-exaggerated-ai-progress-report">acquiring Perplexity AI</a>, indicating the company&#8217;s growing influence in the tech industry. This interest was reportedly discussed internally among Apple&#8217;s senior leaders.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

NVDA

Perplexity AI Targets Google Chrome's Stronghold With Smartphone Pre-Install Strategy: Report

Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) has implemented a new policy at its Ring division, requiring employees to demonstrate their use of artificial intelligence (AI) as part of the promotion process.
What Happened: The new policy was announced by Jamie Siminoff, the founder of Ring, on Wednesday, according to<a href="https://fortune.com/2025/07/18/amazon-ring-ai-promotion-headcount/"> a</a> Fortune report. It mandates that all promotion applications within Amazon&#8217;s RBKS organization must now include details on how AI is utilized in their roles.
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
A spokesperson for Ring confirmed the policy change to Fortune, emphasizing that it applies solely to RBKS employees and not the entire Amazon workforce. Amazon RBKS includes the company's Ring, Blink, Key and Services departments.
This initiative follows Siminoff&#8217;s return to Amazon two months ago, replacing former RBKS leader Liz Hamren. His comeback aligns with CEO Andy Jassy&#8217;s broader strategy to reconnect with Amazon&#8217;s startup ethos.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46448779/inside-trumps-oval-office-crypto-push-why-did-11-republicans-suddenly-change-their-vote">Inside Trump&#8217;s Oval Office Crypto Push: Why Did 11 Republicans Suddenly Change Their Vote? &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Siminoff&#8217;s email, as seen by Business Insider, highlights the aim to foster &#8220;innovative thinking&#8221; and a culture of speed and efficiency, aligning with Jassy&#8217;s vision for the company.
Employees seeking promotions must now detail their use of generative AI or other AI tools to enhance efficiency or customer service, providing examples and outcomes of AI projects.
Managers are required to showcase how they achieve &#8220;more with less&#8221; using AI, without increasing headcount. This move echoes Jassy&#8217;s recent comments on AI&#8217;s role in workforce reduction due to efficiency gains. Other tech giants, like Shopify Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHOP#NYSE">SHOP</a>) and Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), are implementing similar AI-focused policies.
Why It Matters: This policy shift at Amazon Ring is part of a larger trend in the tech industry, where companies are increasingly integrating AI into their operations. Recently, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46131615/amazons-ring-launches-ai-powered-video-descriptions-to-enhance-home-security">Amazon&#8217;s Ring launched AI-powered video descriptions</a> to enhance home security.
Moreover, the AI landscape is rapidly evolving, with startups and major corporations alike investing heavily in AI infrastructure. For instance, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/07/46506334/ai-arms-race-heats-up-as-startups-borrow-billions-to-buy-nvidia-gpus">AI startups are securing significant venture debt</a> to expand their capabilities, while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/07/46400815/meta-commits-hundreds-of-billions-to-build-massive-ai-clusters-in-race-for-superintelligence">Meta Platforms Inc.</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) has announced plans to invest &#8220;hundreds of billions&#8221; into AI clusters.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

AMZN

MSFT

SHOP

Amazon Ring Is Making AI A Job Requirement—Starting With Promotions

A senior IT executive, Raj Jegannathan, is now leading the sales team at Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) as the company faces a downturn in sales.
What Happened: Jegannathan, who has been with Tesla for 13 years, recently assumed the role, which was previously held by Troy Jones, the top sales executive in North America until his departure earlier this month, according to a Reuters report.
According to sources, Jegannathan, who lacks traditional sales experience, has become closer to CEO Elon Musk. His LinkedIn profile and sources confirm his background in IT and data functions.
Tesla&#8217;s sales have plummeted, with a 13% drop last quarter, marking the weakest performance in nearly three years. The decline is attributed to backlash against Musk&#8217;s politics, an aging vehicle lineup, and increased competition.
Jones, who managed the fallout from Musk&#8217;s political affiliations, is among several high-level departures at Tesla. Other recent exits include Omead Afshar, Milan Kovac, Vineet Mehta, and David Lau. Jegannathan&#8217;s responsibilities have expanded, including overseeing vehicle-service operations and contributing to Tesla&#8217;s data centre efforts in Texas.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/news/earnings/24/04/38417196/ford-q1-earnings-highlights-automaker-beats-street-estimates-guidance-improves-ev-revenue-falls-84">Ford Q1 Earnings Highlights: Automaker Beats Street Estimates, Guidance Improves, EV Revenue Falls 84% &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Why It Matters: The leadership changes at Tesla come amid a challenging period for the electric vehicle giant. The departure of Troy Jones marks another significant exit as Tesla grapples with a steep decline in sales. Jones, who served<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/large-cap/25/07/46426351/teslas-sales-turmoil-deepens-with-north-america-sales-chiefs-exit"> as vice president of sales, service, and delivery</a> in Tesla&#8217;s largest market, left after a 15-year tenure.
&nbsp;Elon Musk has taken a more hands-on approach by overseeing sales in the U.S. and Europe following <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46214467/elon-musk-will-oversee-tesla-sales-in-the-us-europe-after-omead-afshars-exit-report">Omead Afshar&#8217;s exit</a>.
Gary Black, managing director at Future Fund LLC, commented on June 27 that Tesla&#8217;s Q2 sales were underperforming, highlighting the urgency for Tesla to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/46132042/teslas-q2-sales-going-to-s-says-gary-black-after-tsla-north-america-and-europe-chief-omead-afshars-exit%5d"> address its sales strategy</a> amid these executive changes.
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility"> following this link.</a>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: VTT Studio / Shutterstock.com

TSLA

Elon Musk's Tesla Appoints Tech Veteran To Head Sales Amid Executive Exodus: Report

Astronomer CEO Andy Byron has been placed on leave following a controversial video that surfaced during a Coldplay concert. The video, which seemed to show Byron embracing the company&#8217;s HR head, has sparked an online frenzy.
What Happened: According to the Business Insider <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/astronomer-ceo-andy-byron-on-leave-coldplay-kiss-cam-video-2025-7">report</a>, Byron, the CEO of the tech company, has been put on leave after a video from a Coldplay concert at Gillette Stadium, near Boston, appeared to show him embracing the company&#8217;s HR head, Kristin Cabot. The video went viral, attracting millions of views and numerous memes.
&#8220;Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability,&#8221; Astronomer stated on X.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46503030/bitcoin-stuck-below-118000-as-ethereum-xrp-dogecoin-extend-gains">Bitcoin Stuck Below $118,000 As Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin Extend Gains &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Astronomer, in a statement, confirmed Byron&#8217;s leave and named Pete DeJoy, the co-founder and chief product officer, as the interim CEO. The company also announced an investigation into the incident.
Why It Matters: The incident has caused a stir in the tech industry, raising questions about the conduct of senior executives and the impact of their actions on company culture. The decision to place Byron on leave reflects the seriousness with which Astronomer is addressing the situation.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Rokas Tenys / Shutterstock.com

Entertainment

News

Rumors

Astronomer CEO Andy Byron Placed On Leave After Viral Coldplay Concert Video

On Friday, Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) said it will no longer use China-based engineers to provide technical support for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41142611/china-set-to-surpass-us-in-advanced-military-manufacturing-by-2035-report">U.S. military</a> cloud services, following an explosive ProPublica report and swift backlash from Washington.
What Happened: The ProPublica investigation revealed that Microsoft had employed engineers based in China to assist on <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/technicals/25/04/44947382/palantir-rolls-out-tanks-microsoft-builds-clouds-whos-winning-ais-next-frontier">cloud systems</a> used by the U.S. military, reported Reuters.
These engineers worked under U.S. subcontractors known as "digital escorts," who held security clearances but reportedly lacked the technical expertise to monitor potential cyber risks.
Microsoft, a major U.S. defense contractor, told ProPublica that it had disclosed these practices to the government as part of its authorization process.
On Friday, Microsoft spokesperson Frank Shaw posted on X, formerly Twitter, saying the company "changed how it supports U.S. government customers… to assure that no China-based engineering teams are providing technical assistance" on Pentagon-related services.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45897154/microsoft-to-roll-out-ai-copilot-for-pentagon-by-summer-2025-tailoring-productivity-tool-for-high-security-government-use-report">Microsoft To Roll Out AI Copilot For Pentagon By Summer 2025, Tailoring Productivity Tool For High-Security Government Use: Report</a>
<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">In response to concerns raised earlier this week about US-supervised foreign engineers, Microsoft has made changes to our support for US Government customers to assure that no China-based engineering teams are providing technical assistance for DoD Government cloud and related…
&mdash; Frank X. Shaw (@fxshaw) <a href="https://twitter.com/fxshaw/status/1946299139068965008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Why It's Important: The controversy escalated when Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, sent a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth demanding transparency, the report noted.
"The U.S. government recognizes that China&#8217;s cyber capabilities pose one of the most aggressive and dangerous threats to the United States," Cotton wrote.
"We must guard against all potential threats within the supply chain, including from subcontractors."
Shortly after, Hegseth announced a two-week review of all Department of Defense cloud service contracts, pledging to root out any further Chinese involvement.
"China will no longer have any involvement whatsoever in our cloud services, effective immediately," he said in a video posted on X.
<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">Update on DOD's cloud services <a href="https://t.co/0wCe3vmuNU">pic.twitter.com/0wCe3vmuNU</a>
&mdash; Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (@SecDef) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecDef/status/1946324468898426899?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
The revelations come amid <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40523419/chinese-firms-are-reportedly-accessing-high-end-nvidia-ai-chips-using-aws-and-microsoft-cloud-servic">heightened scrutiny of Chinese</a> cyber activities and underscore the growing tension between national security and globalized tech labor.
Price Action: Microsoft shares have risen 21.85% so far this year and are up 16.69% over the past 12 months. On Friday, the stock slipped 0.32% during regular trading but ticked up 0.016% in after-hours trading, according to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/pro/register?utm_adType=bzprocontent&amp;utm_campaign=14daytrial&amp;utm_ad=0717">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Benzinga's Edge Stock Rankings show that MSFT maintains consistent upward momentum across short, medium and long-term periods. While it scores strongly on momentum, its value rating remains relatively weaker. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-4/#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Additional performance metrics are available here</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-4/#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/19010531/Screenshot-2025-07-19-at-10.33.44%E2%80%AFAM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-992382" /></a></figure>
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo: Shutterstock

Media

Microsoft Ends China-Based Tech Support For Pentagon Projects Amid National Security Backlash

President Donald Trump has made a claim, stating that up to five jets were shot down during the recent India-Pakistan hostilities. This assertion contradicts official reports from both countries.
What Happened: Trump made these remarks during a dinner with Republican lawmakers at the White House on Friday, according to a Reuters report. The President did not specify which country&#8217;s jets were shot down.
Trump stated, &#8220;In fact, planes were being shot out of the air. Five, five, four or five, but I think five jets were shot down actually.&#8221;&nbsp;
Trump&#8217;s statement is at odds with the official reports from India and Pakistan. Both nations have acknowledged the loss of some aircraft but have not confirmed the number of jets shot down.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46485576/trump-administration-to-impose-93-5-tariffs-on-key-battery-material-imports-from-china-report">Trump Administration To Impose 93.5% Tariffs On Key Battery Material Imports From China: Report</a>
Following an April attack in India-administered Kashmir, tensions between India and Pakistan escalated. The situation eased after a ceasefire was declared in May. Trump has repeatedly claimed credit for the ceasefire, although India has refuted his assertions.
Why It Matters: The recent claim by Trump adds a new layer of complexity to the already strained relationship between India and Pakistan. The two countries have a long history of conflict, particularly over the disputed region of Kashmir. The ceasefire, brokered by the U.S., was seen as a potential step towards de-escalation. However, the subsequent events have cast doubt on the sustainability of the truce.
On the day of the ceasefire, explosions in Srinagar and Jammu raised concerns about the agreement&#8217;s stability. India&#8217;s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the explosions as a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45336288/india-pakistan-ceasefire-teeters-as-blasts-shatter-calm-in-kashmir">breach of the understanding reached between the two countries</a>.
Trump&#8217;s recent comments may further complicate the delicate situation in the region. India and Pakistan have consistently maintained that they must resolve their issues directly, without external intervention. Trump&#8217;s claims of credit for the ceasefire have been met with skepticism by India, which has emphasized the need for bilateral dialogue.&nbsp;
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Maxim Elramsisy / Shutterstock.com

Politics

Events

General

Trump Says 5 Jets Downed During India-Pakistan Conflict: '...Shot Out Of The Air'

On Friday, YouTube sensation Jimmy Donaldson—better known as MrBeast jumped into the viral Coldplay concert drama by offering fans a chance to win VIP tickets—if they tag their boss, that is.
What Happened: After Astronomer CEO Andy Byron and the company's chief people officer, Kristin Cabot, were caught in an intimate moment on a concert kiss cam—sparking a social media frenzy—MrBeast added fuel to the fire with a cheeky giveaway.
"I bought two VIP Coldplay tickets and one random person that tags their boss in the replies will win them! (if you win watch out for the Jumbotron)," MrBeast wrote on X, formerly Twitter, alongside a photo of the tickets.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45268300/mrbeast-is-the-richest-youtuber-in-the-world-but-says-im-like-a-zoo-animal-with-no-free-will-no-one-wants-to-live-the-life-i-live">MrBeast Is The Richest YouTuber In The World, But Says &#8216;I&#8217;m Like A Zoo Animal&#8217; With No Free Will — &#8216;No One Wants To Live The Life I Live&#8217;</a>
<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">I bought two VIP Coldplay tickets and one random person that tags their boss in the replies will win them! (if you win watch out for the Jumbotron) <a href="https://t.co/2VKUbeIhJZ">pic.twitter.com/2VKUbeIhJZ</a>
&mdash; MrBeast (@MrBeast) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrBeast/status/1946339981619831273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Fans flooded the comments with jokes. One user wrote, "I'd like to take my director of HR," to which MrBeast replied, "I can make an exception for that." Others chimed in with quips like, "What if I'm my own boss?" and "My wife is my boss, does that count?"
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It's Important: The kiss cam moment had real-world consequences. Astronomer confirmed Friday that Byron was placed on leave pending a formal investigation, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/18/astronomer-andy-byron-coldplay-kiss-cam.html">reported</a> CNBC.
"Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability," the company said in a statement.
<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">Astronomer is committed to the values and culture that have guided us since our founding. Our leaders are expected to set the standard in both conduct and accountability. The Board of Directors has initiated a formal investigation into this matter and we will have additional… <a href="https://t.co/rfrAQ5bygy">pic.twitter.com/rfrAQ5bygy</a>
&mdash; Astronomer (@astronomerio) <a href="https://twitter.com/astronomerio/status/1946278720622526812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Meanwhile, the YouTuber is not new to these extravagant giveaways. For example, in January this year, MrBeast celebrated the release of episode six of his show Beast Games on Amazon Prime Video with a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43051084/mrbeast-unveils-mystery-box-giveaway-to-celebrate-beast-games-episode-6-release-on-amazon-prime-video">72-hour mystery box giveaway</a>.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo Courtesy: Joe Seer On Shutterstock.com

MrBeast Jumps Into Coldplay Kiss Cam Scandal With Giveaway: Tag Your Boss To Win VIP Tickets

Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft Corp., in a recent video, highlighted the potential consequences of the U.S. reducing its support for global tuberculosis (TB) treatment and diagnosis efforts.
What Happened: Gates, a long-time advocate for global health and a prominent philanthropist, <a href="https://www.gatesnotes.com/home/home-page-topic/lightbox/tuberculosis-impacts-of-health-aid-cuts-video">warned via a</a> video, released on Saturday, that if the U.S. were to scale back its global TB aid, it could result in at least 2 million additional deaths. 
Gates emphasized the importance of the U.S. in the global fight against TB, citing the country&#8217;s significant role in diagnosing and treating TB cases worldwide. He stressed that any reduction in this support could have catastrophic effects on the global TB situation.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46448779/inside-trumps-oval-office-crypto-push-why-did-11-republicans-suddenly-change-their-vote">Inside Trump&#8217;s Oval Office Crypto Push: Why Did 11 Republicans Suddenly Change Their Vote? &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Gates has also recently released a new book titled &#8220;Everything Is Tuberculosis.&#8221; The book, authored by John Green, explores the profound historical and global impact of tuberculosis (TB), a disease that continues to plague many impoverished regions.
Why It Matters: The warning from Gates comes in the wake of a concerning trend in TB cases. In May, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/health-care/25/05/45128878/cdc-logs-highest-tuberculosis-caseload-in-a-decade-advocates-warn-who-pull-out-leaves-america-flying-blind">the highest TB caseload in a decade</a> was reported, with critics cautioning that the U.S.&#8217;s retreat from global health programs could potentially lead to a resurgence of the disease domestically.
With an estimated 13 million residents carrying a latent infection, and about 10% at risk of developing active disease without treatment, the disease has been a pressing concern for the US.
According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report updated on July 17, 2024, a total of 6,182 people died in the United States between 2012 and 2021 while being treated for or diagnosed with tuberculosis.
Read Next: <a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46475118/bitcoins-4-year-cycle-is-dead-researcher-says-heres-why-it-matters-for-xrp">Bitcoin&#8217;s 4-Year Cycle Is Dead, Researcher Says: Here&#8217;s Why It Matters For XRP &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Health Care

Bill Gates Warns US Cuts To TB Aid Could Lead To 2 Million Additional Deaths Worldwide

Brazil&#8217;s Supreme Court has intensified its legal actions against former President Jair Bolsonaro, issuing search warrants and restraining orders. This development follows allegations that Bolsonaro sought interference from U.S. President Donald Trump.
In retaliation, the U.S. has imposed visa restrictions on Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes and others, according to a Reuters report. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described Moraes&#8217; actions as a &#8220;political witch hunt,&#8221; leading to immediate visa revocations for Moraes, his allies, and their families.
Bolsonaro&#8217;s residence was searched, and he is now under an ankle monitor, prohibited from using social media or approaching embassies. He has criticized Moraes, labeling him a &#8220;dictator&#8221; and describing his situation as &#8220;supreme humiliation.&#8221; Despite denying any plans to flee, Bolsonaro expressed a desire to meet Trump if he regains his passport.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46444255/forget-dogecoin-shiba-inu-heres-which-coin-the-memecoin-supercycle-analyst-is-betting-on-instead">Forget Dogecoin, Shiba Inu: Here&#8217;s Which Coin The &#8216;Memecoin Supercycle&#8217; Analyst Is Betting On Instead</a>
Bolsonaro is facing trial for allegedly attempting to orchestrate a coup to prevent President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva from taking office. Trump has criticized the trial, threatening a 50% tariff on Brazilian goods starting August 1. Moraes has cited these tariffs as an effort to provoke an economic crisis in Brazil.
Why It Matters: The tensions between the U.S. and Brazil have been escalating, particularly after Trump threatened sweeping tariffs on Brazilian imports. In a letter to President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Trump condemned the trial of Bolsonaro as a &#8220;Witch Hunt&#8221; and accused Brazil of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/macro-economic-events/25/07/46334793/trump-sends-lula-a-letter-imposing-50-tariffs-calls-bolsonaro-trial-a-witch-hunt-brazils-president-hits-back-will-not-accept-any-form-of-tutelage">undermining free elections</a>.
Furthermore, Trump has announced an additional 1<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46267477/trump-threatens-10-additional-tariff-on-all-brics-aligned-nations-says-tariff-letters-drop-at-noon-monday">0% tariff on countries</a> aligning with BRICS&#8217; anti-American policies, escalating trade tensions further. BRICS is an intergovernmental organization of which Brazil is one of the founding members.
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Trump Ally Jair Bolsonaro Hit With Restraining Order As Brazil Supreme Court Cracks Down: Marco Rubio Calls It 'Political Witch Hunt'

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has moved to unseal grand jury testimony related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein.
What Happened: The Justice Department has emphasized the public&#8217;s persistent interest in the Epstein case, highlighting the necessity of releasing the transcripts, according to a report <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/07/18/politics/jeffrey-epstein-grand-jury-files-trump-bondi">by</a> CNN. A similar motion was filed concerning Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein&#8217;s associate.
President Donald Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi initiated this motion following criticism over the administration&#8217;s handling of Epstein-related documents. Bondi, who had previously promised to release all pertinent documents, recently retracted her statement, citing a lack of evidence for a &#8220;client list&#8221; or foul play in Epstein&#8217;s death.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46486695/taco-paradox-justin-wolfers-explains-new-loop-wall-street-is-not-tanking-expecting-trump-to-chicken">TACO Paradox: Justin Wolfers Explains &#8216;New Loop&#8217; — Wall Street Is Not Tanking Expecting Trump To &#8216;Chicken Out&#8217;, But He&#8217;s &#8216;Not Chickening Out&#8217; Because Wall Street Isn&#8217;t Tanking</a>
The filing noted that a review was conducted to uncover evidence for investigating uncharged third parties, but none was found. The decision to release the testimony now rests with a federal judge, who must consult with victims and uncharged individuals mentioned, a process that could take an extended period.
Why It Matters: The move to unseal the grand jury testimony is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to manage the narrative surrounding Epstein&#8217;s case. Recently, President Trump directed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46486660/trump-directs-pam-bondi-to-release-more-epstein-documents-subject-to-court-approval-threatens-legal-action-against-wsj-over-epstein-letter">Attorney General Pam Bondi</a> to release more documents related to Epstein, subject to court approval. This decision comes amid backlash from the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46460597/trump-administration-weighs-special-prosecutor-releasing-new-epstein-documents-to-contain-maga-backlash-report">MAGA community</a> over undisclosed files.
FBI Director Kash Patel has publicly d<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46386186/kash-patel-says-the-conspiracy-theories-just-arent-true-says-hell-serve-his-role-as-long-as-trump-wants-him-to-amid-epstein-list-controversy">ismissed conspiracy theories</a> surrounding the case, affirming his commitment to his role under Trump&#8217;s administration. Meanwhile, House Speaker Mike Johnson has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46433619/mike-johnson-breaks-ranks-with-trump-on-the-very-delicate-subject-of-epstein-im-for-transparency">called for greater transparency</a>, diverging from Trump&#8217;s stance.
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Trump-Backed DOJ Motion Seeks Release Of Jeffrey Epstein, Maxwell Grand Jury Transcripts

President Donald Trump has filed a $10 billion defamation lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal, its parent company Dow Jones, and the umbrella company News Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NWSA#NASDAQ">NWSA</a>) (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NWS#NASDAQ">NWS</a>), Rupert Murdoch and two of the paper's reporters <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46486660/trump-directs-pam-bondi-to-release-more-epstein-documents-subject-to-court-approval-threatens-legal-action-against-wsj-over-epstein-letter">over an article linking him to a birthday</a> greeting allegedly sent to Jeffrey Epstein in 2003.
What Happened: Filed in federal court in Florida, Trump's lawsuit accuses the Journal of publishing a maliciously false report that he sent Epstein a risqué birthday letter featuring a hand-drawn image of a nude woman and the line, "Happy Birthday — and may every day be another wonderful secret," reported Reuters.
Trump denied the claims outright and blasted the article as defamatory and politically motivated. "I look forward to getting Rupert Murdoch to testify in my lawsuit against him and his ‘pile of garbage' newspaper, the WSJ," Trump wrote on Truth Social Friday morning. "That will be an interesting experience!!!"
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/18220754/Screenshot-2025-07-19-at-7.37.51%E2%80%AFAM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-992338" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source Truth Social</figcaption></figure>
WSJ did not immediately respond to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.
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Why It's Important: According to the Journal, the letter was part of a leather-bound birthday book Epstein compiled, featuring messages from various high-profile individuals.
Epstein, a disgraced financier and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46460597/trump-administration-weighs-special-prosecutor-releasing-new-epstein-documents-to-contain-maga-backlash-report">registered sex offender</a>, died by suicide in a New York jail in 2019. He had longstanding social ties with Trump and other elite figures, though Trump has said he cut off contact with Epstein well before his legal troubles became public.
The lawsuit comes amid renewed public interest in the Epstein case, as the U.S. government seeks to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/events/25/07/46487267/jeffrey-epstein-row-polymarket-bettors-see-higher-odds-of-trump-administration-releasing-undisclosed-documents-this-month">unseal grand jury transcripts related</a> to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.
Following the WSJ report, Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk, who has been at odds with Trump over the last couple of months, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/07/46488532/elon-musk-attacks-trump-for-calling-jeffrey-epstein-case-a-hoax-then-defends-him-against-birthday-letter-leak">seemingly defended him</a> using his AI chatbot Grok to debunk the claim as likely fake.
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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NWSA

Donald Trump Files $10 Billion Lawsuit Against WSJ And Rupert Murdoch

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a reduction in its workforce and the closure of its scientific research office. This move is part of President Donald Trump&#8217;s initiative to reduce the size of the federal government.
What Happened: According to a Reuters report, the EPA announced on Friday that it will reduce its workforce by at least 23% and close its scientific research office.
As of January, the EPA had 16,155 employees. Following layoffs and employees opting for financial incentives to leave or retire, the agency&#8217;s workforce will be reduced to 12,448. This restructuring is anticipated to save the government $748.8 million.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/crypto/cryptocurrency/25/07/46503030/bitcoin-stuck-below-118000-as-ethereum-xrp-dogecoin-extend-gains">Bitcoin Stuck Below $118,000 As Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin Extend Gains &#8211; Benzinga</a>
EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin stated, &#8220;This reduction in force will ensure we can better fulfill that mission while being responsible stewards of your hard-earned tax dollars.&#8221; The EPA will create a new office, the Office of Applied Science and Environmental Solutions, to focus on scientific research.
The EPA&#8217;s Office of Research and Development, which oversees various research projects, will be eliminated. This office is responsible for health risk assessments of &#8220;forever chemicals&#8221; such as PFAS, studies on the spread of Valley fever, and investigations into respiratory illness in the rural South.
Why It Matters: This move by the EPA is in line with a series of downsizing initiatives across various government departments.
Earlier in July, the U.S. Supreme Court <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46313304/trumps-federal-job-cuts-gets-supreme-court-go-ahead-doge-outpaces-big-tech-in-layoffs-across-us-bureaucracy">cleared the way for Trump&#8217;s federal job cuts</a>, potentially affecting tens of thousands of government employees. The Department of Education also faced <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/politics/25/07/46408031/trumps-education-department-cuts-cleared-by-supreme-court-1400-jobs-on-the-line">mass layoffs affecting nearly 1,400 workers</a> and the potential transfer of key functions to other agencies.
Meanwhile, the cuts in U.S. aid, part of the workforce shrinking, have also raised concerns over the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/health-care/25/07/46380959/bill-gates-warns-of-devestating-effects-of-usaid-funding-cuts-its-not-too-late-to-reverse-them">severe consequences on HIV programs in Africa</a>, with calls for a reversal of the decision. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates warned that the aid cuts could trigger a catastrophic global health crisis, projecting millions of additional deaths by 2040.
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EPA To Slash Over 3,700 Jobs, Eliminate Key Science Division Amid Trump's Federal Cuts

Julia Austin has worn nearly every hat a founder can imagine: operator, investor, educator, and coach at Harvard Business School, where she now co‑chairs the Arthur Rock Center for Entrepreneurship. Her new<a href="https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/item.aspx?num=67517"> guide</a>, "After the Idea," shows how messy and overwhelming <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/topics/25/06/45872579/billionaire-marc-lores-7b-food-startup-wonder-backed-by-google-ventures-eyes-2028-ipo-with-5b-revenue-goal-and-ai-powered-superapp-plans">startup</a> life really is once the initial spark fades and real execution begins.
Austin said that a startup journey rarely follows a straight line and that messy turns appear once founders try to turn an idea into a functioning business,<a href="https://www.fastcompany.com/91360117/tips-startup-founders-need-to-know"> Fast Company</a> says. She says that most founders focus on product development early on and overlook culture, financial planning, legal structure, and brand positioning until later.
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Deep uncertainty and impostor syndrome often creep in behind the scenes while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/opinion/25/04/44852934/the-5-traits-that-make-founders-stand-out-to-investors">founders</a> try to appear confident from the outside. Austin believes early intention around operations would help many teams avoid painful course corrections, Fast Company says.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Move Slow to Go Fast: The Unsexy Startup Secret</h2>
According to Fast Company, Austin debunks the myth of launching quickly, urging founders to build true customer understanding through immersive discovery. "Discovery goes beyond customer interviews," she said. Real discovery involves observing customers in their natural environment and running experiments to validate assumptions.
An example Austin highlights in the book is Brij, which began with a QR code tracking idea but pivoted after leaving tagged items in public to observe reactions. The team realized brand‑focused QR codes had much greater potential than lost‑and‑found tagging. That experiment saved them costly infrastructure work for an idea they did not really need.
Discovery, as Austin puts it, is like checking the weather before hiking. It does not answer everything, but it prevents walking into a storm blind, Fast Company says. The insights gathered guide everything else, from product roadmap to hiring and budgeting, not just the initial project scope.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Hiring, Cashflow, and Legal: The Startup Trinity</h2>
According to Fast Company, Austin writes that hiring requires more than skills. Hiring demands cultural fit, trust, values alignment, and pressure‑tested communication. Financial decisions can make or break a venture. Founders face daily trade‑offs between runway and growth, balancing hiring and capital efficiency. Legal choices around incorporation, equity splits, and intellectual property will reverberate through future partnerships and funding rounds.
Founders must also have tough conversations with co‑founders when visions diverge, with investors when metrics miss targets, and with customers when promises fall short, Austin says. She reminds readers that messy emotional work is universal, no matter the startup's domain, Fast Company says.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Build Emotional Endurance as a Strategic Asset</h2>
Founders commonly begin coaching sessions with Austin saying, "I am so overwhelmed," reflecting burnout, tension, and internal friction that cannot be ignored, Fast Company says. Austin recommends radical honesty, admitting stress, setting clear boundaries, building a support network, and investing in self‑care. Coaches or mentors who understand startup turbulence can normalize emotional challenges and keep founders grounded.
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She stresses that resilience, relationships, and emotional endurance are as essential as strategy and product execution. The average startup lifespan for a company that survives is seven to ten years. According to Fast Company, Austin writes that the more intentional founders are about managing their emotions, the stronger their companies will be.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Align on Outcomes Before the Hustle Starts</h2>
According to Fast Company, Austin argues that founders often agree on financial goals without discussing personal motivations. She tells a story about Sam and his co‑founder, who both wanted revenue growth, but one aimed for a quick exit while the other was happy running a modest business. That misalignment surfaced only when an acquisition opportunity appeared.
Austin urges founders and early joiners to clarify why they are entering "Startup Land" and what success looks like for them personally, Fast Company says. Writing down personal goals ensures alignment over time. What "success" means at launch can easily change as the company grows.
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'I Am So Overwhelmed': Harvard Startup Coach Says This Is The No. 1 Thing Founders Confess Behind Closed Doors — Here's What To Do About It

Palmer Luckey is making another big bet: this time, not in virtual reality or military defense, but digital finance. The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/tech/25/06/45990943/anduril-partners-with-germanys-rheinmetall-to-build-smart-autonomous-air-systems-and-rocket-motors-for-europes-defense-amid-ceo-palmer-luckeys-ipo-push">Anduril</a> CEO and Oculus founder has launched Erebor, a digital bank that already holds a valuation of $2 billion as it raises at least $225 million in funding,<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/palmer-luckeys-new-digital-bank-erebor-valuation-2025-7"> Business Insider</a> reports.
Venture firms Founders Fund and 8VC, led by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45609524/ups-sells-ware2go-to-peter-thiel-backed-stord-as-startup-gains-2-5m-square-feet-to-compete-with-amazon-expand-to-u-k-and-netherlands">Peter Thiel</a> and Joe Lonsdale, respectively, are backing the project, according to sources with knowledge of the deal who spoke with Business Insider. The fundraising remains in progress, and details could still change, but the size of the round and the players involved have already drawn attention across Silicon Valley.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Erebor's Tolkien Name Isn't Just for Show</h2>
Erebor takes its name from J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," where the Lonely Mountain is described as a place of treasure and power, Business Insider says. That symbolism may not be coincidental, as Luckey has a track record of blending fantasy themes with serious business. His earlier startup, Anduril, shares the name of a legendary sword from the same fantasy universe.
Erebor has applied for a U.S. bank charter that would allow it to operate as a regulated institution, according to internal documents reviewed by Business Insider. The bank plans to offer crypto-collateralized loans and other services tailored to startups and digital asset companies.
Jacob Hirshman, who previously worked at stablecoin issuer Circle, and Owen Rapaport, co-founder of Aer Compliance, will lead Erebor as co-CEOs, Business Insider reports. Mike Hagedorn, the former CFO of Valley National Bank, lists his current role as Erebor president on<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikehagedorn/"> LinkedIn</a>.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Crypto Pivot Aligns With Erebor's Rise</h2>
Erebor's launch comes as the Trump administration takes a more favorable stance on the cryptocurrency sector. In recent months, President Donald Trump has <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/03/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-trump-establishes-the-strategic-bitcoin-reserve-and-u-s-digital-asset-stockpile/">endorsed</a> creating a strategic bitcoin reserve.
Trump also appointed venture capitalist David Sacks as the country's first crypto czar, tasking him with developing a legal framework to provide long-sought clarity for the cryptocurrency industry and leading the Presidential Council of Advisors for Science and Technology.
The venture firms funding Erebor have clear political ties to Trump. Peter Thiel donated over $1 million to pro-Trump super PACs during the 2016 election, according to <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2022/02/09/tech/peter-thiel-facebook-exit-gop-politics">CNN</a>.&nbsp; Lonsdale, co-founder of Palantir (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>), has also supported America Pac, a group that backed Trump's 2024 re-election campaign,<a href="https://www.ft.com/content/c1aeef78-590f-4f65-97ff-40f96106254a"> Financial Times</a> reported.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From Oculus to Anduril to Erebor, Palmer Luckey Keeps Building Billion-Dollar Systems</h2>
Luckey founded Oculus at age 19 and sold the VR company to Facebook, now Meta (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>), for $2 billion just two years later. Business Insider says that after leaving Meta in 2016 following controversy over a $10,000 donation to a pro-Trump meme group, Luckey co-founded Anduril, which reached a $30.5 billion valuation in June 2023 after raising $2.5 billion.
Although Meta and CEO Mark Zuckerberg denied politics played a role in Luckey's exit, Business Insider says the two have since reconnected through a military tech collaboration announced earlier this year.
Following Circle's (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRCL#NYSE">CRCL</a>) recent public market debut, with shares up over 113% since listing, Erebor's launch enters a crypto sector already drawing heightened institutional interest.
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PLTR

Oculus Founder Palmer Luckey's 'Lord Of The Rings'-Inspired Digital Bank Hits $2 Billion Valuation With Backing From Founders Fund

Sales of private-label products, more commonly referred to as store brands, rose by 4% over the last year, <a href="https://www.plma.com/article/private-label-sales-rose-39-2024-record-271-billion">according</a> to the Private Label Manufacturers Association.
The $9 billion increase, which brought sales of private label products to a record $271 billion, is caused by a number of factors, according to <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/07/01/shoppers-are-trading-down-to-store-brands-without-even-realizing-it.html">CNBC</a>.
&nbsp;"The quality, value, and innovation that store brands provide can't be beat," PLMA President Peggy Davies said in a statement. A survey by market research company First Insight backs her assessment.&nbsp;
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According to First Insight's "<a href="https://www.firstinsight.com/white-papers-posts/the-quiet-takeover-of-private-label">The Quiet Takeover of the Private Label</a>" study released in January, 84% of shoppers now trust the quality of store brand products just as much, or more than, the quality of name-brand products. Additionally, 72% of shoppers are unable to tell apart private-label products and name-brand products, and 47% of shoppers have intentionally tried out a private-label product because it was duping a name-brand product.
"Companies are savvy in how they market," First Insight CEO Greg Petro told CNBC. "It's not just consumers that can be fooled, it's experts."
Rochester Institute of Technology packaging design professor Bruce Myers told CNBC that many stores are improving the aesthetics of their private-label products in order to indicate to consumers that "their brands as equal or better quality at a better price." This is a drastic change from a few decades ago when stores were scaling back on packaging in order to indicate that they were "passing the savings on to you."
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Of course, price still remains a significant factor in the appeal of private-label products.&nbsp;
According to the <a href="https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/CUSR0000SAF11">Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis</a>, grocery store prices have risen 23% over the last five years. Michael Swanson, Wells Fargo's Agri-Food Institute chief agricultural economist, told CNBC that the average household's spending power has outpaced this increase, but points out that consumers "really are very bad at tracking the relative change of those two things."
Petro put it this way, "[consumers] are saying ‘What I'm paying for what I'm getting is not worth it.'"&nbsp;
First Insights' findings also reflect this. According to the survey, 45% of consumers say that they've permanently switched from a name-brand product to a private-label product if they've found that it matches or exceeds their expectations.
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However, these experts say that name-brand products aren't going away any time soon. Especially because stores rely on the existence of name-brand items to highlight their private-label alternatives.
"The only reason you know that private label is a value is because you glance right next to it in the refrigerator section and that something else is 25 or 40% more expensive," Swanson told CNBC.
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Dupe Culture At The Supermarket: Sales Of Store-Brand Products Up By 4%

Trading Halt: Halted at 7:50:00 p.m. ET - Trading Halt: Halt News Pending

Press Releases

From Shoreline to Showstopper: ECD Reveals Vibrant Yellow Soft-Top Defender 90 "Beach Patrol"

ECD Unleashes Its Most Powerful Defender Yet

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Earnings

U.S. Auto Manufacturer ECD Auto Design Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

ECD Auto Design and Scheel-Mann Team Up to Elevate Classic Defender Comfort

ECD Auto Design Unveils an E-Type Like No Other – The Jaguar GTO

ECD Automotive Design Announces Key Initiatives to Right-Size Cost Structure and Support Disciplined Growth

Financing

ECD Automotive Design Secures $500M Equity Facility to Fund a Bitcoin Treasury

ECD Automotive Design Wins Dual Awards for Custom Jaguar E-Type and Mustang Builds

ECD Automotive Design's "Project Wilder" — A Powerful 700+ HP Supercharged California Land Rover Station Wagon

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