Mastercard Option Alert: Jan 16 $540 Puts at the Bid: 300 vs 444 OI; Earnings 4/30 Before Open [est] 

Mastercard Option Alert: Jan 16 $540 Puts at the Bid: 300 @ $33.7 vs 444 OI; Earnings 4/30 Before Open [est] Ref=$543.04

Mastercard (NYSE:MA) Stock

MASTERCARD INC - A

Mastercard

Mastercard is the second-largest payment processor in the world, having processed close to $10 trillion in volume during 2024. Mastercard operates in over 200 countries and processes transactions in over 150 currencies.

Mastercard Inc

Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. Common Stock

Mid-America Apartment Communities Inc

MAGINDUSTRIES CORP by Magindustries Corp.

MagIndustries Corp

MARKETING ALLIANCE INC by Marketing Alliance, Inc. (The)

Marketing Alliance Inc

MAANSHAN IRON&STEEL LTD by Maanshan Iron & Steel Ltd.

Maanshan Iron And Steel Co Ltd

M&A RESH INST HLDGS INC by M&A RESH INST HLDGS INC.

M&A Research Institute Holdings Inc

Matas A/S

Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. 8.50% Series I Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock

MORTGAGE ADVICE BUREAU by Mortgage Advice Bureau Holdings Ltd.

Mortgage Advice Bureau (Holdings) PLC

Macerich Co

MORINGA ACQUISITION CORP USD CL A ORD SHS

MORINGA ACQUISITION CORP USD UNITS CONSISTING ONE CL A ORD SH & ONE HALF WT TO PUR CL

MORINGA ACQUISITION CORP USD WTS TO PUR CL A ORD SHS

Mace Security International Inc

Melar Acquisition Corp. I - Class A Ordinary Shares

Melar Acquisition Corp I

Merrimack Pharmaceuticals Inc Com (New)

THEMAC RESOURCES GRP LTD by Themac Resources Group Ltd.

Themac Resources Group Ltd

Machten Inc

iShares Trust iShares U.S. Manufacturing ETF

Mader Group Ltd

MADISON SYSTEMS INC by Madison Systems, Inc.

Madison Systems Inc

MANILA ELEC CO UNSP/ADR by Manila Electric Co. (MERALCO)

Manila Electric Co

MAG Silver Corp

Point Bridge America First ETF

MAGELLAN GOLD CORP by Magellan Gold Corporation

Magellan Copper and Gold Inc

Madison ETFs Trust Madison Aggregate Bond ETF

Treasure - United States Dollar

Magnera Corp

MAGPLANE TECHNOLOGY INC by Magplane Technology, Inc.

Magplane Technology Inc

Roundhill ETF Trust DAILY INVERSE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN ETF

Roundhill Magnificent Seven ETF

Magnet Forensics Inc Sub Voting

Roundhill Daily 2X Long Magnificent Seven ETF

MahaDAO

MAHINDRA & MAHINDRA 144A by Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd

MONARCH SVCS INC by Monarch Services, Inc.

Monarch Services Inc

MEDIPAL HLDGS UNSP/ADR by Medipal Holdings Corp.

Medipal Holdings Corp

MAHINDRA & MAHINDRA GDR by Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.

MID-ATLANTIC HM HLTH NTWK by Mid-Atlantic Home Health Network, Inc.

Mid-Atlantic Home Health Network Inc

MAIA Biotechnology Inc

MaidSafeCoin

Minera Alamos Inc

Main Street Capital Corporation Common Stock

Main Street Capital Corp

MAJESTIC CAPITAL LTD by Majestic Capital Ltd.

Majestic Capital Ltd

Marijuana Inc

MICHAEL ANTHONY JWLRS INC by Michael Anthony Jewelers, Inc.

Michael Anthony Jewelers

Makara Mining Corp Ordinary Shares

HARDCORE DISCOVERIES LTD by Hardcore Discoveries Ltd

Hardcore Discoveries Ltd

MAKEPEACE (A D) CO by Makepeace (A.D.) Company

Makepeace AD Co

Mako Mining Corp

MARKS & SPENCER GRP ORD by Marks & Spencer Group Plc

Marks & Spencer Group PLC

MARKS & SPENCER GRP S/ADR by Marks & Spencer Group Plc

MAP AKTIF ADIPERKASA by MAP AKTIF ADIPERKASA TBK PT

ProShares S&P Kensho Smart Factories ETF

MACAU LEGEND DEV ORD by Macau Legend Development Ltd

Macau Legend Development Ltd

MICROALLIANCE GROUP INC by Microalliance Group Inc.

Microalliance Group Inc

MAGELLAN AEROSPACE CP by Magellan Aerospace Corporation

Magellan Aerospace Corp

MINERAL RESOURCES LTD ORD by Mineral Resources Ltd.

Mineral Resources Ltd

MINERAL RES LTD UNSP/ADR by Mineral Resources Ltd.

Mama's Creations Inc

Monarch Ambassador Income Index ETF

Massimo Group

MCAN Financial Group

ManpowerGroup Inc

Matrix AI Network

GRAYSCALE DECENTRALAND TR by Grayscale Decentraland Trust (MANA)

Decentraland - United States Dollar

Mandatum PLC

MANEKI - United States Dollar

Manhattan Associates, Inc. - Common Stock

Manhattan Associates Inc

MANOLETE PARTNERS PLC by Manolete Partners Plc

Manolete Partners PLC

Manchester United Ltd. Class A Ordinary Shares

Manchester United PLC

Manning Ventures Inc Ordinary Shares

MANNING VENTURES INC by MANNING VENTURES INC.

Manning Ventures Inc

MANZ AUTOMATION AG ORD by Manz Automation Ag

Manz AG

Maoyan Entertainment

Manitou BF SA

MAUDORE MINERALS LTD ORD by Maudore Minerals Ltd.

Maudore Minerals Ltd

MANDARIN ORIENTAL INTL by Mandarin Oriental International Ltd.

Mandarin Oriental International Ltd

Maroc Telecom SA

MAP Protocol

MAPLETREE LOGISTICS TR UT by Mapletree Logistics Trust Units Real Estate Investment Trust

Mapletree Logistics Trust

MAPLETREE INDUSTRIAL TR by Mapletree Industrial Trust

Mapletree Industrial Trust

Harbor ETF Trust Harbor Multi-Asset Explorer ETF

ProStar Holdings Inc

WM Technology, Inc. - Class A Common Stock

WM Technology Inc

MAPS

Maptelligent Inc

Atlas Arteria Ltd

MAQUIA CAPITAL ACQ CO A by Maquia Capital Acquisition Corporation

Maquia Capital Acquisition Corp

Maquia Capital Acquisition Corp Units (1 Ord Share Class A & 1/2 War)

Maquia Capital Acquisition Corp Warrants (05/05/2026)

Marriott International - Class A Common Stock

Marriott International Inc

MARA Holdings Inc

Visa Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>) has reportedly proposed a $100 million payment to Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) to secure the Apple Card network. This move comes amid fierce competition among the country&#8217;s leading payment networks.
What Happened: Apple Card is up for grabs as Goldman Sachs Group Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>), the bank currently backing it, plans to exit the consumer lending sector. Major banks such as JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) and Synchrony Financial are vying to take over as the card issuer. Visa has stepped in with a $100 million bid to secure the Apple Card network,
Visa, Apple and Mastercard did not immediately respond to <a href="http://pro.benzinga.com">Benzinga&#8217;s</a> request for comment. 
Meanwhile, payment networks, including Visa Inc. and American Express Company (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AXP#NYSE">AXP</a>), are in a tight race to replace Mastercard Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) as the network for the Apple Card. Apple Inc. is expected to choose a network for its card before selecting a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/43019382/apple-eyes-barclays-and-synchrony-to-replace-goldman-sachs-as-credit-card-partner-report">bank to replace</a> Goldman Sachs Group Inc. Visa Inc., the largest network, has made a bold bid to win the card, offering an upfront payment to Apple that is typically reserved for the largest card programs, according to a report by <a href="https://www.wsj.com/finance/banking/apple-card-visa-mastercard-deal-3ce762da">The Wall Street Journal</a>.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/04/44599257/bitcoin-ethereum-dogecoin-edge-higher-as-market-braces-for-trumps-liberation-day-why-arthur-hayes-still-sees-btc-hitting-250000-by-year-end" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Edge Higher As Market Braces For Trump&#8217;s &#8216;Liberation Day:&#8217; Why Arthur Hayes Still Sees BTC Hitting $250,000 By Year-End &#8211; Grayscale Bitcoin Mini Trust (BTC) Common units of</a>
Mastercard Inc. is also making a strong effort to retain its role as the network for the Apple Card, exploring the use of its fintech, Finicity, to enable consumers to view their deposit-account balances within the Apple ecosystem.
Why It Matters: The Apple card program, with approximately $20 billion in balances, is one of the largest co-branded deals to change issuers. The network that secures this deal is expected to remain closely connected to Apple&#8217;s future payment efforts. Visa Inc. remains the undisputed scale leader in the payments industry, but Mastercard Inc. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44435113/visa-vs-mastercard-the-heavyweight-bout-of-payments">has been outpacing </a>its rival in growth. This competition for the Apple card network could significantly impact the balance of power in the payments industry.
The outcome of this competition could have significant implications for the future of Apple&#8217;s payment efforts and the payments industry at large.
Visa holds a momentum rating of 89.49% and a quality rating of 81.30%, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/V" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga&#8217;s Proprietary Edge Rankings</a>. For an in-depth report on more stocks and insights into growth opportunities,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/screener/top-momentum-stocks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/screener/top-momentum-stocks" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">up for Benzinga Edge.</a>
Visa stock lost 1.13% to close at $346.35&nbsp;on Tuesday. The stock has surged more than 25% over the past 6 months.
<ul>
<li>Read Next:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44487389/sundar-pichai-shows-off-googles-most-intelligent-ai-ever-with-a-dinosaur-video-game-that-even-you-could-make-with-a-simple-prompt" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sundar Pichai Shows Off Google&#8217;s &#8216;Most Intelligent AI&#8217; Ever With A Dinosaur Video Game That Even You Could Make With A Simple Prompt &#8211; Alphabet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>), Alphabet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>) &#8211; Benzinga</a></li>
</ul>
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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.

News

Markets

AAPL

GOOG

GOOGL

Visa Offers $100 Million To Secure Apple Card Network In A Bid To Outdo Mastercard: Report

<a href="https://www.wsj.com/finance/banking/apple-card-visa-mastercard-deal-3ce762da?mod=latest_headlines" title="https://www.wsj.com/finance/banking/apple-card-visa-mastercard-deal-3ce762da?mod=latest_headlines">https://www.wsj.com/finance/banking/apple-card-visa-mastercard-deal-3ce762da?mod=latest_headlines</a>

'Visa Offers Apple Roughly $100 Million To Take Over Credit Card From Mastercard' - Wall Street Journal

<a href="https://in.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44376666/high-yield-dividend-investor-making-12900-per-year-names-10-favorite-stocks-took-me-almost-3-years-to-get-to-this-point">Dividend</a> investing has long been a favorite strategy for retirees and income-focused investors. Unlike growth-oriented assets, which depend on share price appreciation, dividend-paying stocks generate regular payouts.
But why do so many investors run to dividend stocks and ETFs? Dividends offer a way to compound wealth by reinvesting the generated income while also providing financial stability in <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44476778/author-says-dave-ramsey-is-completely-ignorant-of-sequence-of-returns-risk-questions-whether-1-million-is-really-enough-for-retirement">retirement</a>. High-quality dividend companies also have a history of increasing payouts year after year, helping investors keep up with inflation.
Don't Miss:
<ul>
<li>Deloitte's fastest-growing software company partners with Amazon, Walmart &amp; Target – <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">Many are rushing to grab 4,000 of its pre-IPO shares for just $0.26/share!</a></li>
<li>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>.</li>
</ul>
Still, total returns are also important in investing, as one investor demonstrated. The investor, a Reddit user who shared his journey in the r/Dividends community, is a 61-year-old retiree who spent 37 years building his portfolio on growth before switching to a dividend strategy when approaching retirement. He ultimately crafted a portfolio yielding around 8% and named his top holdings in the thread.
&#8220;My big break was being mostly cash in early 2020 because I felt the market had gotten too expensive. That was largely luck but it worked great. March 2020 was really fun. I spent between $1 million to $2 million on stocks in about 30 days and the resulting market rise after that secured my retirement. When I started learning about dividends, I included it as one option but still looked at it from a perspective of total returns,&#8221; he shared.
Now, he lives comfortably off dividends, rarely selling stocks for income, and relying on growing dividend payouts. The investor has shared his holdings in the Reddit community, so let&#8217;s see what they are.
Trending: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $100.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Retiree Living Off Dividends Shares Top 10 Holdings in Reddit Investing Community</h2>
AbbVie
AbbVie (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) is a global biopharmaceutical company focusing on the research and development of advanced treatments for complex diseases. Investors love ABBV because of its strong product portfolio and its steady dividend history, paying approximately 3.23% annually in dividends.
Arbor Realty Trust
A real estate investment trust with a high yield, Arbor Realty Trust (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABR#NYSE">ABR</a>) focuses on originating and servicing loans for multifamily and commercial real estate. The company pays investors around 14.11% in dividends annually.
Broadcom
A tech dividend grower, Broadcom (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AVGO#NASDAQ">AVGO</a>) is known for semiconductors and software, and despite a modest yield, it raises payouts aggressively. AVGO has a 1.24% dividend yield per year.
Hercules Capital
Hercules Capital (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HTGC#NYSE">HTGC</a>) is a business development company that offers venture debt to technology and life sciences companies. Investors love HTGC since it offers high dividend yields and exposure to emerging growth companies. The company pays investors around 9.39% in dividends.
Mastercard
Mastercard (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) is a well-known global technology company operating in the payments industry. MA pays investors approximately 0.56% in dividends yearly.
See Also: It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $250 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a>
Realty Income Corporation
A real estate investment trust, Realty Income Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/O#NYSE">O</a>) is known as &#8220;the monthly dividend company&#8221; since it pays investors every month. O owns over 6,500 properties under long-term lease agreements and has a very diversified property portfolio, paying 5.76% per year in dividends.
Target
Operating as a general merchandise retailer selling a wide assortment of products, such as household essentials, apparel, and electronics, Target (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) generates approximately 4.23% in dividends.
Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF
Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VTI#NYSE">VTI</a>) tracks the performance of the CRSP US Total Market Index, covering virtually all investable U.S. stocks. With a dividend of around 1.35% per year, the ETF is loved by investors because it offers broad exposure to the U.S. equity market with low expense ratios.​
Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF
Tracking the performance of the Dow Jones U.S. Dividend 100 Index, Schwab U.S. Dividend Equity ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCHD#NYSE">SCHD</a>) focuses on high-dividend-yielding U.S. stocks. SCHD generates around 3.81% in dividends.
Invesco S&amp;P SmallCap 600 Revenue ETF
Paying around 1.47% in dividends per year, Invesco S&amp;P SmallCap 600 Revenue ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RWJ#NYSE">RWJ</a>) tracks the performance of the S&amp;P SmallCap 600 Revenue-Weighted Index. Investors love RWJ because it provides exposure to small-cap U.S. companies weighted by earnings.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li>Have $200K saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/have-200k-saved-heres-how-to-turn-it-into-lasting-wealth"> Here's how to turn it into lasting wealth</a></li>
<li>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.26/share!</a></li>
</ul>

Personal Finance

ABBV

AVGO

HTGC

SCHD

Retired At 58, He 'Spent Between $1M-$2M On Stocks' – Investor Who Built An 8% Yield Portfolio And Lives Off Dividends Shares Top Holdings

No one stumbles upon <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42301100/most-americans-dont-see-wealth-as-the-key-to-financial-success-heres-what-matters-more-to-59-of-them">financial success</a> by accident. Wealth is built through discipline, learning from mistakes, and sticking to an approach even when the market seems to go awry. Few investing strategies showcase this better than <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44374276/reddit-explodes-over-dividend-math-how-much-would-the-annual-dividend-be-for-a-280k-investment-investors-debate-schds-future-growth">dividend</a> investing.
Dividend investing is the slow-and-steady journey of the financial world, paying consistently while also providing growth in the background, making it perfect for retirees, long-term investors, and anyone who wants passive income.
Don't Miss:
<ul>
<li>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>.</li>
<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>
</ul>
Still, this approach can also be risky for some if they pick the wrong stocks. One military veteran and Reddit user recently shared his investing journey that started with him making costly mistakes to now earning him $10,000 in dividends per year.
With 13 years of investing experience, the poster, an enlisted service member, had to learn what works through trial and error. He says he tried to be smarter than the market early on, leading to him selling big winners too soon and holding onto losers for too long.
&#8220;I bought [General Electric] in my Roth at what I thought was a great price point of $14.50 or something. Had to [dollar-cost average] over several years to bring the cost basis down and missed out on having that money in better spots in the biggest bull market year I have been a part of,&#8221; he shared.
The 36-year-old mentioned that he&#8217;s gradually shifted his strategy to dividend shares now and his $296,570 portfolio already generates over $10,000 annually in dividends. Let&#8217;s see what dividend shares and ETFs the investor holds.
Trending: BlackRock is calling 2025 the year of alternative assets. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">One firm from NYC has quietly built a group of 60,000+ investors who have all joined in on an alt asset class previously exclusive to billionaires like Bezos and Gates.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">From Fatal Mistakes to $10,000/Year in Dividend Income—Reddit Investor Shares Top 10 Stocks and ETFs in His Portfolio</h2>
Abbott Laboratories
Healthcare company, Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABT#NYSE">ABT</a>) specializes in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and nutritional products. With a 1.89% dividend yield per year, ABT is known for its diversified product portfolio and steady payments.
AbbVie
Pharmaceutical giant AbbVie (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABBV#NYSE">ABBV</a>) focuses on the research and development of therapies for various health conditions. Investors love ABBV because it has a strong yield, generating around 3.28% in dividends per year, and a stable pipeline of drugs.
ConocoPhillips
Energy giant ConocoPhillips (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COP#NYSE">COP</a>) engages in the exploration and production of oil and natural gas. COP pays investors approximately 3.05% in annual dividends.
Duke Energy Corporation
Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DUK#NYSE">DUK</a>) is one of the largest electric power companies in the U.S. and is known for its stable revenue and consistent dividends. DUK generates around 3.62% in annual dividend yield.
Apple
Technology giant Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) has a modest dividend yield but a strong growth potential, and that&#8217;s why both growth and income-focused investors are attracted to this stock. APPL pays investors around 0.47% in dividends per year.
See Also: Have $200K saved?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/have-200k-saved-heres-how-to-turn-it-into-lasting-wealth"> Here's how to turn it into lasting wealth</a>
Mastercard
Electronic payments company Mastercard (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) benefits from the ongoing shift toward cashless transactions. This, and the growth potential it offers makes MA a go-to stock for many investors. The company generates around 0.56% in annual dividends.
Verizon
Telecom Verizon Communications (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VZ#NYSE">VZ</a>) provides wireless and wireline services. With a dividend yield of approximately 6.25% annually, VZ has a stable cash flow, making it a favorite among individual stock investors.
Altria Group
Tobacco giant Altria Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MO#NYSE">MO</a>) is mainly known for the Marlboro brand. MO offers a high dividend yield of 7.21% per year, appealing to those seeking higher passive income.
Global X SuperDividend ETF
Tracking the performance of the Indxx SuperDividend U.S. Low Volatility Index, Global X SuperDividend ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIV#NYSE">DIV</a>) focuses on high dividend yields and is known to retain low volatility. DIV generates around 11.37% in dividend yield per year.
Invesco Preferred ETF
Invesco Preferred ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PGX#NYSE">PGX</a>) invests mainly in preferred stocks, which are hybrid securities offering features of both stocks and bonds.​ Paying investors around 5.85% in annual dividends, PGX is a favorite for those who seek higher income.
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gbr-savings-by-age">If You're Age 35, 50, or 60: Here&#8217;s How Much You Should Have Saved Vs. Invested By Now</a></li>
<li>Many are using retirement income calculators to check if they&#8217;re on pace —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/how-do-i-calculate-my-retirement-income-adv"> here&#8217;s a breakdown on what&#8217;s behind this formula.</a></li>
</ul>

From Rookie Mistakes To $10K/Year In Dividends – Military Veteran Who 'Made A Few Great Plays' Shares His 10 Biggest Bets

World Network (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">WLD</a>) was one of the cryptocurrency market&#8217;s hottest coins Monday, amid speculation about a deal with Visa Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>) to build a new stablecoin wallet.
What happened: WLD, the native currency of the decentralized identity verification project, jumped over 11%, becoming the fifth-most successful cryptocurrency in the last 24 hours.
The coin's trading volume nearly tripled to $234 million, as the buying pressure tossed it to a two-week high of $0.94.
The rally outshone returns by market heavyweights Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) and Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>), which grew 0.74% and 2.79%, respectively, in the last 24 hours.
See Also:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42735744/pharma-bro-martin-shkreli-predicts-doom-for-michael-saylors-microstrategy-as-stock-dips-below-300-in-after-hours-trading"> </a><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44451674/bitcoin-arms-race-peter-schiff-doubts-cynthia-lummis-theory-that-china-wants-to-take-on-us-smart-enough-to-have-sold">Bitcoin Arms Race: Peter Schiff Doubts Cynthia Lummis&#8217; Theory That China Wants To Take On US — &#8216;Smart Enough To Have Sold&#8217;</a>
The uptick followed reports that the Sam Altman-founded platform was in talks with Visa to develop a stablecoin wallet integrated with the payments giant&#8217;s <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/25/03/44435113/visa-vs-mastercard-the-heavyweight-bout-of-payments">massive customer base</a>, <a href="https://www.coindesk.com/business/2025/03/20/openai-chief-sam-altman-s-world-network-is-working-with-payments-giant-visa-source">according </a>to CoinDesk. 
A World Network spokesperson declined to comment on Benzinga&#8217;s confirmation request.
World Network collects people&#8217;s irises to authenticate their humanness and create a digital ID, thereby making them eligible to receive free WLD tokens
However, the project has been mired in controversy over concerns of personal data privacy. It has been banned in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/asia/24/05/38981228/sam-altman-founded-worldcoin-shown-the-door-in-hong-kong-over-privacy-concerns">Hong Kong</a>, Kenya, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/06/39176283/sam-altman-founded-worldcoins-suspension-extended-in-spain-crypto-plunges-55-since-march-p">Spain</a>.
Price Action:&nbsp; At the time of writing, WLD was exchanging hands at $0.9146, up 11.58% in the last 24 hours, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA..">data from Benzinga Pro</a>. Year-to-date, the cryptocurrency has plummeted 56%.
Shares of Visa closed 2.45% lower at $343.87 during Monday&#8217;s regular session. 
The stock demonstrated significantly high momentum but lagged in growth as of this writing. Check how its close rival Mastercard Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) performs on these indicators using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/screener/top-momentum-stocks">Benzinga's proprietary Edge Rankings score.</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/V"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="445" height="137" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/24233627/Screenshot-2025-03-25-090610.png" alt="" class="wp-image-839532" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/24233627/Screenshot-2025-03-25-090610.png 445w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/24233627/Screenshot-2025-03-25-090610-300x92.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 445px) 100vw, 445px" /></a></figure>
Image by CryptoFX on Shutterstock
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</ul>

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

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$WLD

Sam Altman-Founded Worldcoin Network Beats Bitcoin, Ethereum With 11% Rally Amid Visa Partnership Reports

The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/momentum-trading">momentum trade</a> just hit a wall and the unwind has been nothing short of brutal.
JPMorgan analysts Dubravko Lakos-Bujas, Arun Jain and Bhupinder Singh note that the sharp reversal in momentum has erased two years of gains in just three weeks &#8211; one of the fastest unwinds in four decades. 
With mega-caps leading the drop and a dramatic shift towards low-volatility stocks, investors need to rethink their strategies.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What's Behind The Crash?</h2>
Extreme crowding in momentum stocks &#8211; primarily fueled by AI enthusiasm, high-rate expectations and pro-growth bets—came under pressure as macro risks resurfaced. 
The result? A 17% average decline among the Mag-7, triggering a $5.8 trillion market cap wipeout in the S&amp;P 500.
While forced liquidations and systematic deleveraging have cooled the immediate risk of another crash, JPMorgan warns that if this is a true regime shift, the unwind may only be one-third complete.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44450390">Charlie Munger&#8217;s Investment Wisdom: &#8216;If People Weren&#8217;t So Often Wrong, We Wouldn&#8217;t Be So Rich&#8217;</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Where Is Momentum Flowing?</h2>
Momentum is rotating away from quality growth and into low volatility and defensive plays. 
According to JPMorgan, stocks in the following sectors are seeing the strongest bid:
Utilities: NiSource Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NI#NYSE">NI</a>), Ameren Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEE#NYSE">AEE</a>) and Evergy Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EVRG#NASDAQ">EVRG</a>)
Insurance: Arthur J. Gallagher &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AJG#NYSE">AJG</a>), Brown &amp; Brown Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRO#NYSE">BRO</a>) and Aon PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AON#NYSE">AON</a>)
Financial Services: Visa Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>) and Mastercard Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>)
Crowding in low volatility names has surged, pushing relative P/E valuations to record highs.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What To Watch Next</h2>
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">The Low-Volatility Boom</h4>
With the iShares Russell 2000 ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) (small caps) lagging and defensive ETFs like the Invesco S&amp;P 500 Low Volatility ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPLV#NYSE">SPLV</a>) seeing inflows, the shift towards safety is clear. But JPMorgan warns that a further rate drop could push low volatility stocks into bubble territory, much like 2016.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">High-Volatility Bargains</h4>
According to JPMorgan, stocks that have seen heavy multiple compression, making them attractive for value-seeking investors, include:
Semiconductors: Monolithic Power Systems Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MPWR#NASDAQ">MPWR</a>), Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) and Advanced Micro Devices Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>))
Software: (Synopsys Inc (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/snps#NASDAQ">SNPS</a>), Cadence Design Systems Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CDNS#NASDAQ">CDNS</a>), ServiceNow Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOW#NYSE">NOW</a>))
Tech Hardware: (Arista Networks Inc (NYSE: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/anet#NYSE">ANET</a>), NetApp Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NTAP#NASDAQ">NTAP</a>), Dell Technologies Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>))
However, without an intra-cycle reset or Fed pivot, a broad move into beaten-down growth stocks may be premature.
<h4 class="wp-block-heading">The Fed's Next Move</h4>
If rate expectations shift lower, expect bond proxies to gain further. If not, the defensive rally may stall, forcing a reassessment of positioning.
Momentum traders just got whipsawed and the rotation into low-volatility stocks has been rapid. While some safety plays look solid, overheating risks remain.
Investors should watch for signs of a structural shift &#8211; and be ready to pivot before the next wave hits.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/44456554">Trade Wars, Fed Moves And A 40% Recession Risk &#8211; Is Your Portfolio Ready?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

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ANET

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PowerShares S&P 500 Low Volatility Portfolio

SPLV

Momentum Whiplash: Where Should Investors Pivot Next?

On Sunday, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met with top executives from Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PFE#NYSE">PFE</a>), Mastercard Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>), Eli Lilly and Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LLY#NYSE">LLY</a>), Cargill, and other major firms.
What Happened: "China will continue to improve the business environment and welcome more investment by multinational companies in China, sharing opportunities for development," he told the leaders, describing the country's economy as "highly resilient" and "full of vitality."
Executives from medical device maker Medtronic PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MDT#NYSE">MDT</a>) and investment management firm Conning were also in attendance, reported Reuters, citing a statement from China's Ministry of Commerce.
However, the statement did not specify where the meeting took place.
Many of the executives are in Beijing to attend the China Development Forum, where further high-level meetings, including a possible session with President Xi Jinping, are expected later this week, the report noted, citing unnamed sources.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44272657/alibaba-chairperson-says-everyone-is-concerned-about-tariffs-as-he-expects-levies-on-chinese-evs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alibaba's Joseph Tsai Says ‘Everyone Is Concerned About Tariffs,' As He Expects Levies On Chinese EVs</a>
Why It's Important: Beijing has ramped up efforts to attract foreign capital amid a slowing economy and fresh <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/news/global/25/03/44448798/china-ponders-export-limitations-to-quell-trumps-trade-onslaught">U.S. tariff headwinds</a> under President Donald Trump.
While American companies made up the largest group at this year's forum, sources say fewer U.S. CEOs attended compared to last year—signaling ongoing caution in cross-border corporate relations, the report noted.
Previously, the Chinese President expressed concerns about the possibility of China facing isolation similar to the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The ongoing trade war has heightened <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/25/03/44161587/is-china-apprehensive-of-losing-the-trade-war-to-the-us-china-could-get-isolated-like-moscow-fears-xi-jinping">fears of economic isolation</a>.
 Despite these challenges, <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/03/44273552/ray-dalio-says-china-is-way-ahead-in-ai-and-robotics-us-lags-in-mass-production">China remains a leader</a> in technological advancements, particularly in artificial intelligence and robotics, according to investor Ray Dalio.
Image via Shutterstock
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/44055314/mrbeast-lost-millions-on-amazons-beast-games-now-hes-looking-to-raise-hundreds-of-millions-to-take-h" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MrBeast Lost Millions On Amazon's ‘Beast Games'—Now He's Looking To Raise Hundreds Of Millions To Take His Brand To The Next Level</a></li>
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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.

Tech

Media

China Courts Apple, Pfizer, Eli Lilly Amid US Pressure, Vice Premier Says Beijing 'Will Continue To Improve The Business Environment'

Mastercard (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 9.17% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 19.81%. Currently, Mastercard has a market capitalization of $488.39 billion. 
Buying $1000 In MA: If an investor had bought $1000 of MA stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $6,131.28 today based on a price of $535.69 for MA at the time of writing.
<h3>Mastercard's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1742594409_0.png" alt="comp_fig" />
Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

$1000 Invested In This Stock 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

Visa Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>) remains the undisputed scale leader in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/payments">the payments industry</a>, but Mastercard Inc (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>) has been outpacing its rival in growth.
Should investors bet on Visa's dominance or Mastercard's momentum?
JPMorgan's Tien-tsin Huang analyzes the key differences between the two payment giants, focusing on their financials, shareholder returns, and valuation dynamics.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Scale Vs. Speed: Who Wins?</h2>
Visa's dominance is clear — it boasts 63% more total volume, 31% more revenue, and an enviable ten-point operating margin advantage, thanks to superior fixed cost leverage. It also has 50% more cards outstanding and commands nearly two-thirds of the global market share in purchase volume.
However, Mastercard has been running circles around Visa in growth, capitalizing on a mix of faster-expanding regions and revenue streams. According to Huang, Mastercard outpaced Visa in revenue growth by about two percentage points, maintaining its five-year average edge. Even on the bottom line, Mastercard's adjusted EPS grew four percentage points faster, thanks to margin expansion—something Visa couldn't pull off last year.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/25/03/44081480/stripes-payment-surge-puts-adyen-paypal-fiserv-on-notice-ai-stablecoins-fuel-the-race">Stripe&#8217;s Payment Surge Puts Adyen, PayPal, Fiserv On Notice &#8211; AI, Stablecoins Fuel The Race</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Shareholder Returns: A Dead Heat</h2>
Both companies are cash flow powerhouses, returning nearly all of their adjusted net income to shareholders via aggressive share buybacks. In 2024, Mastercard and Visa shares gained 23% and 21%, respectively, mirroring the S&amp;P 500's performance. 
However, Huang notes that Visa has taken the early lead in 2025, benefiting from investors' appetite for U.S. growth and a reduced regulatory overhang.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Valuation Puzzle</h2>
Network multiples have expanded, with Mastercard trading at 33x forward earnings versus Visa's 28x. 
While both remain in line with their historical premium to the S&amp;P 500, Huang points out that Mastercard's higher multiple reflects its stronger growth profile, while Visa's relative value case is gaining traction.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Verdict</h2>
Huang isn't picking sides, maintaining an Overweight rating on both stocks. Mastercard's growth premium looks sustainable, but Visa's relative value and easing regulatory risks could make it the safer bet. 
Investors have a choice—go big with Visa or go fast with Mastercard. Either way, it's a battle of titans worth watching.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44429586/elon-musk-says-hang-on-to-your-stock-in-surprise-late-evening-tesla-all-hands-meeting-touts-7-million-evs-optimus-robot-and-ai-supercomputer-dojo">Elon Musk Says &#8216;Hang On To Your Stock&#8217; In Surprise Late-Evening Tesla All-Hands Meeting — Touts 7 Million EVs, Optimus Robot, And AI Supercomputer Dojo</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

Visa Vs. Mastercard: The Battle For Payment Supremacy Heats Up

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Financials sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>GS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$555.00</td>
<td>$123.8K</td>
<td>23</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>C</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>04/17/25</td>
<td>$67.50</td>
<td>$125.6K</td>
<td>4.6K</td>
<td>869</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>V</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
<td>$158.4K</td>
<td>1.4K</td>
<td>839</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MA</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>05/16/25</td>
<td>$540.00</td>
<td>$122.7K</td>
<td>504</td>
<td>725</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>JPM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$330.00</td>
<td>$68.9K</td>
<td>786</td>
<td>500</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>HOOD</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/15/27</td>
<td>$40.00</td>
<td>$29.0K</td>
<td>4.9K</td>
<td>492</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AFRM</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/28/25</td>
<td>$45.00</td>
<td>$46.9K</td>
<td>602</td>
<td>445</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>CME</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$260.00</td>
<td>$117.0K</td>
<td>1.0K</td>
<td>400</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MET</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/17/27</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$31.6K</td>
<td>400</td>
<td>62</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COIN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$227.50</td>
<td>$36.1K</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>19</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• Regarding GS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 59 day(s) on May 16, 2025. Parties traded 40 contract(s) at a $555.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $123.8K, with a price of $3095.0 per contract. There were 23 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 1323 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For C (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 30 day(s) on April 17, 2025. This event was a transfer of 748 contract(s) at a $67.50 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $125.6K, with a price of $168.0 per contract. There were 4664 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 869 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For V (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/V#NYSE">V</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 3 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 600 contract(s) at a $335.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $158.4K, with a price of $264.0 per contract. There were 1486 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 839 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bullish sentiment. It expires in 59 day(s) on May 16, 2025. Parties traded 50 contract(s) at a $540.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 3 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $122.7K, with a price of $2455.0 per contract. There were 504 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 725 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For JPM (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bullish, expiring in 304 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 428 contract(s) at a $330.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 12 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $68.9K, with a price of $161.0 per contract. There were 786 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 500 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding HOOD (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HOOD#NASDAQ">HOOD</a>), we observe a call option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 668 day(s) on January 15, 2027. Parties traded 19 contract(s) at a $40.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $29.0K, with a price of $1530.0 per contract. There were 4941 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 492 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AFRM (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AFRM#NASDAQ">AFRM</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 10 day(s) on March 28, 2025. This event was a transfer of 241 contract(s) at a $45.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $46.9K, with a price of $195.0 per contract. There were 602 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 445 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For CME (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CME#NASDAQ">CME</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bearish, expiring in 185 day(s) on September 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 100 contract(s) at a $260.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $117.0K, with a price of $1170.0 per contract. There were 1043 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 400 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For MET (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MET#NYSE">MET</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 1004 day(s) on December 17, 2027. This event was a transfer of 10 contract(s) at a $55.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $31.6K, with a price of $3160.0 per contract. There were 400 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 62 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For COIN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 3 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 8 contract(s) at a $227.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $36.1K, with a price of $4523.0 per contract. There were 18 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 19 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more news on unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

Options

AFRM

COIN

HOOD

10 Financials Stocks With Whale Alerts In Today's Session

This whale alert can help traders discover the next big trading opportunities.
Whales are entities with large sums of money and we track their transactions here at Benzinga on our options activity scanner.
Traders will search for circumstances when the market estimation of an option diverges heavily from its normal worth. High amounts of trading activity could push option prices to exaggerated or underestimated levels. 
Below are some instances of options activity happening in the Financials sector: 
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Symbol</th>
<th>PUT/CALL</th>
<th>Trade Type</th>
<th>Sentiment</th>
<th>Exp. Date</th>
<th>Strike Price</th>
<th>Total Trade Price</th>
<th>Open Interest</th>
<th>Volume</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>C</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$57.50</td>
<td>$104.0K</td>
<td>3.3K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$135.00</td>
<td>$70.0K</td>
<td>1.9K</td>
<td>835</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ITUB</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$6.00</td>
<td>$35.2K</td>
<td>986</td>
<td>647</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>RKT</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$13.00</td>
<td>$84.5K</td>
<td>6.0K</td>
<td>628</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>FIS</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$65.00</td>
<td>$73.8K</td>
<td>0</td>
<td>547</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>AIG</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/18/26</td>
<td>$75.00</td>
<td>$158.9K</td>
<td>503</td>
<td>421</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>BX</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$125.00</td>
<td>$252.5K</td>
<td>957</td>
<td>251</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XYZ</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/20/26</td>
<td>$55.00</td>
<td>$31.8K</td>
<td>234</td>
<td>211</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>COIN</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$220.00</td>
<td>$73.3K</td>
<td>11.7K</td>
<td>164</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>MA</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$540.00</td>
<td>$192.8K</td>
<td>128</td>
<td>109</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

<h2>Explanation</h2>
These bullet-by-bullet explanations have been constructed using the accompanying table. 
• For C (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 308 day(s) on January 16, 2026. This event was a transfer of 70 contract(s) at a $57.50 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $104.0K, with a price of $1486.0 per contract. There were 3310 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 2145 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For TW (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TW#NASDAQ">TW</a>), we notice a call option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 7 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 250 contract(s) at a $135.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 4 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $70.0K, with a price of $280.0 per contract. There were 1944 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 835 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For ITUB (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITUB#NYSE">ITUB</a>), we notice a call option trade that happens to be neutral, expiring in 189 day(s) on September 19, 2025. This event was a transfer of 640 contract(s) at a $6.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $35.2K, with a price of $55.0 per contract. There were 986 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 647 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding RKT (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RKT#NYSE">RKT</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 7 day(s) on March 21, 2025. Parties traded 444 contract(s) at a $13.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 10 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $84.5K, with a price of $195.0 per contract. There were 6090 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 628 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For FIS (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FIS#NYSE">FIS</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 461 day(s) on June 18, 2026. This event was a transfer of 121 contract(s) at a $65.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 5 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $73.8K, with a price of $610.0 per contract. There were 0 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 547 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For AIG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AIG#NYSE">AIG</a>), we notice a put option sweep that happens to be bearish, expiring in 461 day(s) on June 18, 2026. This event was a transfer of 261 contract(s) at a $75.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 27 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $158.9K, with a price of $610.0 per contract. There were 503 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 421 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding BX (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BX#NYSE">BX</a>), we observe a put option trade with bullish sentiment. It expires in 308 day(s) on January 16, 2026. Parties traded 250 contract(s) at a $125.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $252.5K, with a price of $1010.0 per contract. There were 957 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 251 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding XYZ (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XYZ#NYSE">XYZ</a>), we observe a put option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 371 day(s) on March 20, 2026. Parties traded 33 contract(s) at a $55.00 strike. This particular put needed to be split into 7 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $31.8K, with a price of $965.0 per contract. There were 234 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 211 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• For COIN (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>), we notice a put option trade that happens to be bullish, expiring in 7 day(s) on March 21, 2025. This event was a transfer of 20 contract(s) at a $220.00 strike. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $73.3K, with a price of $3665.0 per contract. There were 11769 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 164 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
• Regarding MA (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MA#NYSE">MA</a>), we observe a call option sweep with bearish sentiment. It expires in 189 day(s) on September 19, 2025. Parties traded 58 contract(s) at a $540.00 strike. This particular call needed to be split into 19 different trades to become filled. The total cost received by the writing party (or parties) was $192.8K, with a price of $3325.0 per contract. There were 128 open contracts at this strike prior to today, and today 109 contract(s) were bought and sold. 
Options Alert Terminology 
 - Call Contracts: The right to buy shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Put Contracts: The right to sell shares as indicated in the contract. 
 - Expiration Date: When the contract expires. One must act on the contract by this date if one wants to use it. 
 - Premium/Option Price: The price of the contract. 
For more information, visit our <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/blog/how-to-understand-option-alerts/">Guide to Understanding Options Alerts</a> or read <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/options">more about unusual options activity</a>. 
This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.

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