Bank OZK (NASDAQ:OZK) Stock

BANK OZK

Bank OZK

Bank OZK is a bank holding company that owns and operates a community bank, Bank of the Ozarks. The bank operates offices in Arkansas, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, Texas, California, New York and Mississippi. It provides a range of banking services which include deposit services such as checking, savings, money market, time deposit, and individual retirement accounts to loan services like real estate, consumer, commercial, and industrial loans. Apart from providing traditional banking products and services it also provides treasury management, trust and wealth management, financial planning, online banking, and other related services.

Bank OZK - 4.625% Series A Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock

Frank Bisignano, a former Wall Street executive and longtime payments industry leader, has officially taken the reins as the 18th commissioner of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45297093/social-security-highlights-first-100-days-of-trump-administration-key-reforms-and-billions-in-retroactive-payments">Social Security Administration</a>. His appointment, confirmed by a 53-47 Senate vote on May 6, marks a new phase for an agency that serves over 72 million Americans and distributes more than $1.5 trillion in benefits annually.
Bisignano's confirmation comes after a tumultuous stretch under temporary leadership and rising concern about the influence of the Department of Government Efficiency — a Trump administration initiative that has triggered debate about data privacy and staffing cuts at the SSA.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Who Is Frank Bisignano?</h2>
Bisignano brings decades of executive experience, having served as CEO of both First Data Corp. and Fiserv (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FI#NYSE">FI</a>), a financial technology firm that processes more than $2.5 trillion in payments daily. Raised in a working-class Brooklyn household, Bisignano emphasized his respect for federal workers in his Senate testimony, drawing on his father's 46-year career with the Treasury Department.
But his leadership style and background in the private sector have stirred controversy — especially when he told <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/03/25/trump-pick-to-lead-social-security-faces-questions-on-doge-involvement.html">CNBC</a> in February, "I'm fundamentally a DOGE person." That remark, referencing the controversial Department of Government Efficiency, has raised eyebrows among Social Security advocates and Democratic lawmakers.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Is DOGE, and Why Does It Matter?</h2>
DOGE is not a traditional federal department. Instead, it's a Trump-era task force aimed at overhauling federal agencies through rapid modernization and streamlining — sometimes at the cost of established processes.
Trending: 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>
Under DOGE's influence, the SSA has seen <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45281537/gop-warns-trump-appointed-social-security-chief-frank-bisignano-against-further-staff-cuts-citing-risks-to-services-as-baby-boomers-age">deep job cuts</a>, attempts to alter sensitive databases, and major operational shifts. These actions have alarmed beneficiaries, agency staff, and former commissioners alike.
A federal judge has already issued a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44438870/extremely-worrisome-and-surprising-federal-judge-considers-emergency-order-to-block-doge-from-social-security-systems">preliminary injunction</a> blocking DOGE from accessing sensitive data like Social Security numbers, medical records, and tax information. Former Acting Commissioner Michelle King reportedly stepped down due to concerns about DOGE's access to such data.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Bisignano Says He'll Focus On</h2>
Despite his DOGE comment, Bisignano has stated that he does not support privatizing Social Security. "I've never thought about privatizing," he said during his Senate confirmation hearing in March. "I don't see this institution as anything other than a government agency that gets run for the American public."
He's outlined three major goals:
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>Fixing Overpayments – The SSA has mistakenly issued more than $71 billion in improper payments from 2015-2022, according to an SSA Inspector General <a href="https://oig.ssa.gov/news-releases/2024-08-19-ig-reports-nearly-72-billion-improperly-paid-recommended-improvements-go-unimplemented/">report</a>. Bisignano says lowering the error rate is a top priority, but "we have to be humans in the process" during overpayment recoveries.</li>
<li>Reducing Wait Times – He wants to cut down long wait times when people call or apply for disability benefits. He mentioned using AI to improve response times, targeting under a one-minute wait on the agency's 800 number.</li>
<li>Protecting Personal Data – After pressure from lawmakers, Bisignano pledged to safeguard personal information.</li>
</ol>
See Also: <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>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Could Change for Your Benefits?</h2>
For now, Bisignano's leadership is still new — and while his management background may help improve processing speeds and efficiency, concerns remain about privacy and agency stability. Advocacy groups like Social Security Works worry his ties to DOGE signal continued upheaval.
Still, in a <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/releases/2025/#2025-05-07">press release</a> from the SSA, Bisignano emphasized his intent to "protect Social Security" and turn the agency into a "premier organization."
Time will tell how that mission plays out for the millions who depend on the program.
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Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

Trump's New Social Security Commissioner Says He's 'Fundamentally A DOGE Person' — What That Could Mean For Your Benefits

Kevin O'Leary, the entrepreneur and investor known as Mr. Wonderful from &#8220;Shark Tank,&#8221; recently shared his thoughts on loyalty programs, describing them as a losing game for consumers.
&#8220;Loyalty programs? Don't fall for the hype. Points are inflating faster than the dollar,&#8221; O&#8217;Leary <a href="https://x.com/kevinolearytv/status/1920111878514319666">wrote on X</a> recently.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why O'Leary Cashes Out Quickly</h2>
In the same post, he shared a video in which he elaborated further. "Loyalty schemes and point systems. Worthless, worthless," he said. "The inflation in points from airlines is absurd. Just look at what you got 12 months ago for what you get now."
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Loyalty programs? Don't fall for the hype. Points are inflating faster than the dollar. What used to get you a flight to Hawaii now barely buys you a carry-on. I sign up for every program—but I cash out the second I get the points. That's how smart consumers win. The game is… <a href="https://t.co/TMgwKFPGfQ">pic.twitter.com/TMgwKFPGfQ</a>
&mdash; Kevin O&#39;Leary aka Mr. Wonderful (@kevinolearytv) <a href="https://twitter.com/kevinolearytv/status/1920111878514319666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
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O'Leary claims that loyalty points, which many consumers accumulate in hopes of earning <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-airline-credit-cards">free flights or other rewards</a>, have lost significant value over time. "People think, oh, I&#8217;m going to amass loyalty points. I&#8217;m going to fly to Hawaii. You find out that two years ago, it was 30,000 points. Now it&#8217;s 170,000 points. There&#8217;s nothing you can do about it."
Instead of hoarding points, O'Leary's strategy is to cash them out as soon as possible, taking advantage of any opportunity to spend them before their value drops further. He suggests using them for goods and services wherever possible, like on Amazon (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), to avoid being caught in the cycle of point inflation.
"I sign up for every single loyalty program, every single one, any retailer, and I blow them out the second I get them," he said. "If you&#8217;re a sharp consumer, you can save about two and a half percent of your entire costs every month by just playing the game right."
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Drawbacks of Hoarding Points</h2>
This approach contrasts with the more traditional strategy of trying to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/06/39190507/is-maximizing-credit-card-rewards-worth-it">maximize credit card rewards</a> over time, which can be effective but requires financial discipline, strong credit, and careful organization.&nbsp;
For those who enjoy chasing points, the effort can pay off, but it also comes with risks. If you're not careful, you can end up carrying balances, paying high interest, or even hurting your credit score if you open too many accounts too quickly.
O'Leary also points out that for people earning a high income, chasing points might not be the best use of their time. Even if you manage to earn a million points in a year, that's only about $10,000 in value, which isn&#8217;t worth the hassle for everyone.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cash Out and Move On</h2>
O'Leary's approach is simple: collect points but never hold onto them for long, as he believes &#8220;the game is rigged&#8221; against those who try to save up for larger rewards. "The most important thing to do with any loyalty program is to spend the points immediately. The second you get them, do not hold on to them."
For those who appreciate convenience, this strategy cuts down on the time spent managing multiple accounts, remembering payment dates, and tracking changing redemption rates. It's a straightforward approach that prioritizes immediate returns over long-term gains.
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Image: Shutterstock

News

AMZN

'The Game Is Rigged' Says Kevin O'Leary On Credit Card Points. He Claims They're Inflating Faster Than The Dollar And Always Cashes Out Fast

If you've been anywhere near the news lately, you already know—President Donald Trump's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45264016/trumps-tariffs-hit-mattels-barbies-will-americans-pay-a-couple-of-bucks-more-as-president-predicts">tariffs are constantly in the spotlight</a>. The 145% tariff on Chinese imports has everyone from big tech to small businesses scrambling, and yes, there's been plenty of worry over possible empty shelves.
But while <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/05/45263291/fed-keeps-rates-steady-warns-of-rising-uncertainty-about-the-economic-outlook">the Federal Reserve kept rates steady this week</a> and CEOs plotted their next moves, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/45003790/mark-cuban-slams-amazon-for-ripping-off-american-sellers-as-tariffs-are-predicted-to-boost-ecommerce-brands-profits">billionaire Mark Cuban</a> did what he does best: he went online and said what a lot of people were probably thinking.
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Cuban, who's never had a problem speaking his mind or calling out fellow billionaires, <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/mcuban.bsky.social/post/3loejyk5ktc2y">took to BlueSky on May 4</a> and dropped this gem:
"Given that most, if not all MAGA merch is made in China, I'll be really curious to see what happens to their pricing and availability."
That comment quickly gained traction—not just because it's Cuban, but because it pointed out a hilarious bit of irony. One BlueSky user jumped into the comments with a side-by-side photo: a MAGA cap with a "Made in China" tag next to a Biden hat proudly stamped "Made in USA."&nbsp;
For years, a significant portion of MAGA stuff—the very gear promoting Make "America" Great Again—hats, banners, shirts—is rumored to be produced in Chinese factories.<a href="https://x.com/onestpress/status/1911627451450470611?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1911627451450470611%7Ctwgr%5E99dc9295d44cc1c1014743663b3646911dcebcb4%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&amp;ref_url=https://m.economictimes.com/magazines/panache/are-donald-trumps-maga-hats-made-in-china-viral-video-claims-to-reveal-the-irony-behind-his-tariff-war-rhetoric/articleshow/120306632.cms"> Viral clips from Chinese state media</a> show workers making MAGA banners and flags.&nbsp;
Sure, some U.S. companies manufacture campaign merch domestically, but much of what floods e-commerce sites still comes from China.
Trump campaign's official website,<a href="https://www.trumpstore.com/product/classic-maga-hat/"> TrumpStore.com</a>, continues to state that its MAGA hats are "Proudly Made in USA." Federal Election Commission filings confirm that the campaign has consistently paid U.S.-based companies for the production and distribution of its hats.
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While official campaign merchandise is domestically produced, a significant portion of MAGA-themed merchandise sold through third-party vendors, especially on online marketplaces, is manufactured overseas, including in China.&nbsp;&nbsp;
Back in 2020, <a href="https://abcnews4.com/news/local/where-is-maga-merchandise-made">WJLA-TV</a> in Washington, D.C. interviewed Rocky Granada, a vendor who sold Trump merchandise at over 60 rallies.&nbsp;
He proudly declared, "I work every day for Donald Trump. I live, eat, and drink for Donald Trump." But when asked about where the merchandise was made, he admitted, "Well, most of it is made in China, but we do have some stuff that's made in America." Holding up a scarf, he pointed out it was recycled cotton—one of the few American-made items he carried. Even some rally-goers were aware that their MAGA gear wasn't exactly boosting U.S. manufacturing.
On the same day as his MAGA merch post, Cuban reshared a <a href="https://x.com/mcuban/status/1919101808208654381">video clip of Trump on X</a> brushing off a question about helping small businesses deal with tariffs.&nbsp;
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In the clip, when asked, "Are you considering tariff relief for small businesses?" Trump replied, "Why do you always mention, you know, a couple of little businesses. What about the car business? They're going to make a fortune."
Cuban didn't let that slide. He added his own response to the post, writing, "Should <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45229642/major-economic-disaster-amid-trump-tariffs-american-small-business-owners-face-closures-price-hikes-and-losses">small businesses be ignored</a>? Or are big industries all that matter?"
As tariffs spark fresh uncertainty—and Trump has already paused most tariffs for 90 days except for those on China—the question now isn't just about macroeconomics. It's about whether the very slogan that fueled Trump's rise might become a casualty of his own trade war.
And Cuban? He'll definitely be watching.
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Image: Shutterstock

Mark Cuban Mocks MAGA Merch Being 'Mostly Made In China' — Says He's 'Really Curious' How Trump's Tariffs Will Hit Their Prices And Availability

The late billionaire Charlie Munger, renowned for his financial acumen and longevity, believed the key to success was avoiding conventional pitfalls.
What Happened: Munger, who lived to 99, attributed his success to a simple and direct approach to life and work. He emphasized the importance of avoiding standard ways of failing, and was known for his cautious decision-making.
Munger, who lived in the same house for 70 years, believed that extravagant living often leads to dissatisfaction. 
&#8220;I avoided the standard ways of failing, because my game in life was always to avoid all standard ways of failing. You teach me the wrong way to play poker and I will avoid it. You teach me the wrong way to do something else, I will avoid it. And, of course, I&#8217;ve avoided a lot, because I&#8217;m so cautious,&#8221; Munger said in an interview <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5Oom5Rjp_Y">with </a>CNBC.
His pragmatic approach extended to his spending habits. For instance, when his business associate at&nbsp;Berkshire Hathaway&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BRK#NYSE">BRK</a>), Warren Buffett, decided&nbsp;to replace a company jet,&nbsp;Munger saw&nbsp;the $6.7 million expense as&nbsp;excessive.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/43219503/charlie-mungers-three-investment-lessons-buy-wonderful-businesses-at-fair-prices-big-money-isnt-in-buying-or-selling-its-in-waiting-good-businesses-are-ethical-businesses" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charlie Munger's Three Investment Lessons: ‘Buy Wonderful Businesses At Fair Prices, Big Money Isn't In Buying Or Selling-It's In Waiting, Good Businesses Are Ethical Businesses'</a>
According to Munger, avoiding apparent risks, frivolity, and &#8220;insane&#8221; scenarios were key to his financial success and longevity. &#8220;Steer clear of insanity at all costs. Insanity is far more prevalent than you'd imagine. Avoid crazy at all costs. Crazy is way more common than you think. It&#8217;s easy to slip into crazy. Just avoid it, avoid it, avoid it,&#8221; Munger said.
Why It Matters: Munger&#8217;s philosophy offers valuable insights into his work ethic. 
His avoidance of conventional failure modes, cautious decision-making, and disdain for extravagance and risky ventures provide a refreshing perspective in a world often obsessed with quick riches and ostentatious displays of wealth.
His legacy serves as a&nbsp;reminder that success can be&nbsp;achieved through simplicity, caution, and&nbsp;a steadfast refusal to participate&nbsp;in &#8220;insane&#8221; ventures.
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Success Stories

Charlie Munger's Financial Success Advice: 'I Avoided Standard Ways Of Failing, Because My Game in Life Was Always To Avoid All Standard Ways of Failing'

Guidance

RDNT

RadNet Raises FY2025 Sales Guidance from $1.825B-$1.875B to $1.835B-$1.885B vs $1.936B Est

RadNet (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RDNT#NASDAQ">RDNT</a>) reported quarterly losses of $(0.35) per share which missed the analyst consensus estimate of $(0.13) by 169.23 percent. This is a 600 percent decrease over earnings of $0.07 per share from the same period last year. The company reported quarterly sales of $471.40 million which beat the analyst consensus estimate of $443.23 million by 6.36 percent. This is a 9.19 percent increase over sales of $431.71 million the same period last year.

Earnings

Earnings Beats

Earnings Misses

RadNet Q1 Adj. EPS $(0.35) Misses $(0.13) Estimate, Sales $471.40M Beat $443.23M Estimate

Grant Cardone has taken aim at Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, accusing him of being antagonistic toward the Trump administration and potentially trying to block the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45187535/scott-bessent-defends-trumps-economic-agenda-as-engine-designed-to-drive-economic-growth-despite">president's pro-business agenda</a>.&nbsp;
In a May 7 <a href="https://x.com/GrantCardone/status/1920146251560935703">post on X</a>, Cardone said Powell has "already waited too long" to adjust interest rates, arguing that the Fed chief was slow to raise them in the past and is now hesitant to cut them as economic challenges mount.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Jerome Powell has already waited TOO LONG Powell either lacks confidence to act or worse he's attempting to block Trump's pro business theme. He waited too long to raise rates and now he's waiting too long to lower. He's always reactionary never proactive. Tons of economic…
&mdash; Grant Cardone (@GrantCardone) <a href="https://twitter.com/GrantCardone/status/1920146251560935703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2025</a></blockquote>
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Don't Miss:
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<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 $0.30/share!</a></li>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cardone Criticizes Powell's Interest Rate Decisions</h2>
Cardone, CEO of Cardone Capital, laid out his case on X, claiming Powell's approach is "always reactionary, never proactive." He pointed to several signs that he says justify immediate rate cuts, including a slowdown in U.S. GDP, the weakest home sales since 2009, and a global economic downturn.&nbsp;
"Tons of economic data support rate cuts," Cardone wrote, adding that the U.S. has "some of the most expensive debt amongst developed nations."&nbsp;
He also pointed out that the U.S. residential and commercial real estate markets are at risk due to the high cost of borrowing, which he argues is squeezing small businesses and homeowners alike.
Trending: Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary called Missing Ring his biggest mistake — Don't repeat history—<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/big-tech-has-spent-billions-acquiring-ai-smart-home-startups-one-company-stands-to-benefit-and-has-already-made-10-million">invest in RYSE at just $1.90/share.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Allegations of Political Motivation</h2>
Cardone also suggested that Powell's reluctance to lower rates might be politically motivated. He said Powell "appears antagonistic to Trump Administration and Trump's goal to renegotiate international deals via tariffs," suggesting that the Fed chief might be trying to turn populist sentiment against Trump by refusing to cut rates, which Cardone claims is hurting the American middle class and small business.&nbsp;
Cardone implied that Powell's decisions could be a strategic move to create economic headwinds for Trump as the president pursues trade deals supposedly aimed at strengthening U.S. manufacturing and reducing trade deficits.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Fed Holds Rates Steady Despite Uncertainty</h2>
This criticism comes as the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45277558/dow-surges-over-250-points-following-fed-decision-investor-sentiment-improves-fear-greed-index-in-greed-zone">Fed decided</a> on May 7 to keep its key interest rate steady in a range between 4.25% and 4.5%, citing rising economic uncertainty and the risk of stagflation as U.S. tariffs disrupt global trade.&nbsp;
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In a <a href="https://www.federalreserve.gov/newsevents/pressreleases/monetary20250507a.htm">statement</a> released after its latest policy meeting, the central bank said "uncertainty about the economic outlook has increased further." Powell in a press conference later&nbsp; emphasized that the U.S. economy is still in "solid shape" despite recent turbulence.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cardone's Warnings About Economic Risks</h2>
However, Cardone argues that Powell's approach could be putting the U.S. economy at risk, particularly those facing some of the highest debt costs among developed nations.&nbsp;
He warned that Powell's stance might punish the middle class and threaten Trump's broader economic agenda. Cardone's concerns reflect a broader debate over whether the Fed's <a href="https://in.benzinga.com/etfs/specialty-etfs/25/01/42898157/feds-cautious-rate-cut-approach-boosts-appeal-of-these-3-etfs">cautious approach</a> to interest rates is slowing down the economy at a time when it needs support.
Additionally, the Fed's recent statement hinted at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/05/45269703/stagflation-emerges-as-key-economic-risk-to-federal-reserve-policy-economists-warn">potential for stagflation</a>, a challenging mix of high inflation and slow growth, which hasn't been a significant issue in the U.S. since the early 1980s. This scenario, if realized, could further complicate Trump's efforts to stabilize the economy through trade renegotiations and domestic production incentives.
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Grant Cardone Says Jerome Powell Is 'Antagonistic To Trump Administration,' Claims He Might Be Trying To Block Trump's Pro-Business Agenda

In a bid to reinvigorate its innovation engine,&nbsp;Apple Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is reportedly gearing up for a significant year in 2027, with plans to introduce a range of groundbreaking devices and features.
Bloomberg&#8217;s&nbsp;Mark Gurman,&nbsp;in his&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2025-05-11/apple-2027-plans-tabletop-robot-20th-anniversary-iphone-ios-19-wi-fi-feature?srnd=undefined&amp;sref=TBDibEcD">latest&nbsp;</a>weekly &#8220;Power On&#8221; shared that&nbsp;Apple&#8217;s 2027 product roadmap includes a foldable iPhone, smart glasses, and other novel devices. The tech giant is also developing&nbsp;an iOS 19 feature that&nbsp;will allow hotel Wi-Fi access details to be synced across devices.
Apple&#8217;s sales have been on a downward trajectory due to a dearth of revolutionary designs. iPhone sales are lower than they were two years ago, and Apple Watch revenue saw a 14% drop last year. 
The company is feeling the heat from Chinese competitors&nbsp;like Huawei Technologies Co. and&nbsp;Xiaomi Corp., which are making waves with their innovative foldable phones.
Eddy Cue, Apple&#8217;s Senior Vice President of Services, voiced concerns about the company&#8217;s future during a court testimony at Google&#8217;s antitrust trial. He cautioned that a lack of innovation could put Apple at a disadvantage against its competitors.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/04/45029758/apples-ai-team-undergoes-major-restructuring-amidst-performance-concerns">Apple&#8217;s AI Team Undergoes Major Restructuring Amidst Performance Concerns</a>
Despite the current challenges, Apple is plotting a product renaissance for 2027. The roadmap includes a foldable iPhone, smart glasses, and other new devices, writes Gurman. 
The company is also focusing on enhancing its AI capabilities with&nbsp;powerful new chips for its&nbsp;AI servers and a shift to a&nbsp;Siri digital assistant that relies&nbsp;on large language models.
Additionally, Apple plans to reduce its dependence on Google search by transitioning to AI-based results. 
Cue disclosed that&nbsp;Google search queries on Apple&nbsp;devices fell&nbsp;last month for the first&nbsp;time in 22 years, and the company is contemplating&nbsp;switching its Safari browser to&nbsp;an AI search system. 
This move could significantly alter the dynamics of the search engine market and further solidify Apple&#8217;s position in the tech industry.
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Apple's 2027 Vision: Foldable iPhones, Smart Glasses, And AI Innovations

Volatility is a defining feature of cryptocurrency markets—prices can swing wildly in short timeframes. For beginners, the swings may seem intimidating, but they may actually present profitable entry points for those who are prepared.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.plus500.com/multisitelandingpage?id=115158&amp;tags=Volatility_Article&amp;pl=2">Platforms like Plus500 give traders access to real-time data </a>and intuitive tools to help capitalize on those fast-moving moments—without the clutter or complexity.
Recent macroeconomic events present a perfect example. President Trump's surprise tariff announcements rattled global markets and sent crypto prices plunging (Bitcoin fell roughly 15% over a few days) in April​. The total crypto market cap dropped about 25% from January highs amid the trade-war jitters​.&nbsp;
Yet, instead of viewing the dips with panic, many experienced traders see them as chances to buy assets at a discount. In fact, experts note that today's lower prices could offer returns for patient investors. The key is understanding how to identify emerging trends during volatility so you can act before the rest of the market catches on.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Understanding Crypto Volatility as a Potential Opportunity</h2>
Crypto markets often react sharply to news and macroeconomic shifts. Large moves—whether up or down—are not necessarily a bad thing for traders. Volatility means rapid changes in price, and where there are rapid changes, there may be an opportunity for profit if you time your trades well.&nbsp;
For example, when tariff headlines sparked a sell-off in April, it underscored the widespread fallout across risk assets​, but it also set the stage for bargain hunters to step in. Some investors actively hunt for opportunities during these volatile periods​, looking to scoop up coins at low prices and ride the eventual rebound. History has shown that after significant downturns, crypto prices have often rebounded to new highs once the dust settles.&nbsp;
The lesson for beginners is that volatility isn't just whipsaw risk—it can be your friend if you stay informed and act rationally. By being observant and strategic, you may be able to&nbsp; turn wild price swings into profitable trades.
So how can a newcomer spot a profitable crypto trend early, especially in a chaotic market? Below are three key strategies Benzinga identified to help you identify emerging trends amid volatility, followed by some tools to manage risk while doing so.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Strategy 1: Monitor Trading Volume for Early Signals</h2>
Watch the volume. Trading volume—the number of coins changing hands—is one of the most important indicators of market interest. Unusual spikes in volume often precede major price moves.&nbsp;
In other words, volume often rises before price does; a sudden surge can signal that a breakout or trend shift is looming. For example, if a relatively quiet altcoin suddenly sees its trading volume jump dramatically, it could mean that large players ("whales") or informed traders are piling in, perhaps in anticipation of news or a technical breakout.&nbsp;
Sudden spikes in volume may indicate the entry of large players or unexpected news in the crypto. Beginners should keep an eye on volume indicators in their charts or use screeners to spot coins with rising volume.&nbsp;
A strong uptrend is often accompanied by rising volume, which confirms the trend's strength. Conversely, if prices are moving up without volume growth, the trend may not be reliable. By tracking volume patterns, you can catch early signals of a nascent rally or an impending reversal before it becomes obvious to everyone.
Tip: Look for volume breakouts—days or hours when volume is significantly above its average. Pair it with price analysis—a price increase on high volume is a bullish signal that a trend may be starting, whereas a price drop on high volume might warn of a downtrend. Volume is the fuel that drives big price moves, so learning to read it may give you a head start in spotting profitable trends.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Strategy 2: Track News Catalysts and Market Sentiment</h2>
In crypto, news moves markets. Staying on top of news and market sentiment is important for catching trends early. Major announcements—from regulatory developments and economic policy changes to technological upgrades and influential endorsements—can create volatility and shape the market's direction.&nbsp;
For instance, President Trump's tariff actions we mentioned earlier were a macro catalyst that triggered a broad sell-off in crypto. On the flip side, positive news like a big company adopting Bitcoin, a favorable regulatory decision, or even a prominent figure tweeting support for a coin can spark a sudden rally. These are catalysts that often mark the beginning of a new trend.
Beginners should make it a habit to stay informed. By the time news is widely disseminated, prices may have already reacted—but if you're plugged into crypto news feeds, social media, and economic calendars, you&nbsp; may be able to react faster.&nbsp;
Being early to catch a news catalyst can mean entering a trade before the bulk of traders follow. For example, rumors of a Bitcoin ETF approval or an upcoming network upgrade may lead to traders quietly accumulating beforehand. When the news becomes official, the trend accelerates and those who got in early may reap the gains.&nbsp;
By staying informed and patient, you can navigate market dips effectively and make the most of buying opportunities. In practice, it means following reliable crypto news sources, keeping an eye on broader financial news (interest rate changes, inflation data, geopolitical events), and even tracking sentiment indicators like the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index or social media trends.
Tip: Set up news alerts for the major cryptocurrencies you follow. Many platforms and apps allow you to get push notifications for significant news or price moves. This way, if something big happens—say, Ethereum's founders announce a major update or a country legalizes Bitcoin—you'll be alerted right away and can evaluate if it's an opportunity to buy (or sell) before the trend plays out fully. In volatile markets, information is an edge.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Strategy 3: Use Technical Indicators to Spot Trend Signals</h2>
Technical indicators are powerful tools to help identify emerging trends or trend reversals early on. Even if you're new to chart analysis, a few beginner-friendly indicators can go a long way in highlighting when a crypto asset might be gearing up for a move.
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Relative Strength Index (RSI) – This is a momentum oscillator that measures recent price gains vs. losses. RSI ranges from 0 to 100 and helps flag when an asset is overbought or oversold. An RSI reading above 70 typically indicates overbought conditions (price may have risen too fast and could pull back), while an RSI below 30 indicates oversold conditions (price may have fallen too fast and could bounce)​. For trend-spotting, an oversold RSI on a coin that has been in a downtrend might hint that selling pressure is exhausted—a trend reversal upward could be near. Conversely, an overbought RSI in an uptrend could signal the rally is peaking. Beginners can use RSI to find coins that are oversold and potentially due for a trend change upward (a possible entry point), or overbought and due for a cooldown (a caution sign). Many traders also watch for bullish divergence (when price makes a lower low but RSI makes a higher low, indicating weakening downward momentum) as a precursor to a trend reversal. </li>
<li>Moving Averages (MA) – Moving averages smooth out price data and help identify the overall trend direction. A common technique is to use a short-term and long-term moving average together and watch for crossover events. One famous example is the Golden Cross, which occurs when a short-term MA (e.g. 50-day) crosses above a long-term MA (e.g. 200-day) on a chart. This crossover is interpreted as a definitive upward turn and a bullish signal that a long-term uptrend may be starting​. The opposite is the Death Cross (short-term crossing below long-term), a bearish sign. For early trend spotting, moving average crossovers can confirm that momentum is shifting. Additionally, simply observing price relative to a key moving average can help. Moving averages act as support/resistance too; breaking above a long-standing moving average line on strong volume can signal an emerging bull trend. </li>
<li>Other Indicators: There are many others—MACD, Bollinger Bands, trend lines, etc.—but as a beginner, focus on a couple that you understand well. Bollinger Bands, for example, can show when volatility is historically high or low, which often precedes a breakout. The key is to use technical indicators in combination with the other strategies (volume and news). If multiple signals line up you may have a high-confidence opportunity. </li>
</ul>
Tip: Most trading platforms (and free charting tools like TradingView) offer these indicators built-in. Practice reading charts with RSI and moving averages turned on. Look at past moments of big price moves and observe what the indicators were showing right before the move. You'll start noticing patterns (for example, many uptrends begin when an RSI climbs out of the oversold region and the price breaks above a moving average). Over time, technical insight will help you anticipate profitable trends rather than just react to them.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Risk Management and Tools for Navigating Volatility</h2>
Spotting a trend is only part of the equation—you also need to execute trades wisely and manage your risk, especially in volatile conditions. This is where having the right platform and tools becomes crucial. One platform <a href="https://www.plus500.com/multisitelandingpage?id=115158&amp;tags=Volatility_Article&amp;pl=2">suited for beginners is Plus500</a>, which offers a range of features to help new traders navigate crypto volatility confidently. It's important to use such tools to protect yourself while taking advantage of opportunities. Below are some practical ways beginners can leverage Plus500 (or similar platforms) to trade smart during turbulent markets:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Practice with a Demo Account: Before diving in with real money, practice your strategies on a demo account. </li>
<li>Set Price Alerts for Key Moves: Don't feel like you must stare at charts 24/7. Use price alerts to your advantage. Plus500's platform allows customizable price alerts—you can get notified via email or push notification when a cryptocurrency hits a certain price or moves by a certain percentage. This means if you're waiting for a breakout above a resistance level or a dip to a specific "buy zone," the system will alert you. Staying informed of big moves or news in real time helps you act early on trends you're watching, even if you're away from the trading screen. </li>
<li>Use Stop-Loss and Take-Profit Orders: Volatility can be a double-edged sword – while it creates opportunity, things can also move against you quickly. Help protect yourself by always setting a stop-loss order when you enter a trade. A stop-loss automatically closes your position if the price falls to a level you specify, limiting your downside risk. Likewise, you can set a take-profit (or "Close at Profit") order to automatically lock in potential gains once the price reaches your target. </li>
<li>Advanced Stop Features: For extra protection in highly volatile markets, <a href="https://www.plus500.com/multisitelandingpage?id=115158&amp;tags=Volatility_Article&amp;pl=2">Plus500 also offers tools like Stops and Trailing Stops</a>. A stop means the broker closes your trade at your stop price no matter what, even if the market gaps below it – this can be very useful when major news hits and prices swing wildly (though usually it comes with a slightly wider spread cost). A trailing stop is a dynamic stop-loss that moves up with the price when your trade is in profit: if the market price rises, the trailing stop will automatically adjust upward to lock in profits, but if the market then reverses, it will trigger at the new level, securing the gains you accumulated​. ​These features may help you capitalize on volatile upswings while still having a safety net if the trend turns. As a beginner, using such risk management tools instills disciplined trading habits.</li>
</ul>
Volatility = Opportunity when approached with the right knowledge and tools. By combining the strategies above—monitoring volume, tracking news, and applying technical analysis—with <a href="https://www.plus500.com/multisitelandingpage?id=115158&amp;tags=Volatility_Article&amp;pl=2">prudent risk management on a platform like Plus500</a>, even novice traders may start to navigate the crypto market's swings with confidence.&nbsp;
Remember to stay patient and disciplined. Not every dip or spike is worth chasing, but the persistent, observant trader will be able to filter signal from noise. Over time, you'll learn to recognize the early signs of a potentially profitable trend and act decisively.&nbsp;

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

Cryptocurrency

Volatility = Opportunity: How Beginners Can Spot Profitable Crypto Trends Early

Meta chief Mark Zuckerberg has urged entrepreneurs to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI), forecasting a major transformation in the tech industry.
What Happened: Zuckerberg, in his address&nbsp;at the Stripe Sessions conference, underscored the advantages of AI for startups. He proposed that AI enables small teams to concentrate on their primary business concepts, thereby facilitating the development of superior quality products.
Furthermore, Zuckerberg touched upon the potential of AI to function as a midlevel engineer capable of writing code, an idea he had previously shared&nbsp;on the Joe Rogan Experience&nbsp;podcast. Nonetheless, he cautioned about possible drawbacks, such as the threat of security vulnerabilities going unnoticed without adequate code review, reports <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/mark-zuckerberg-ai-startup-company-with-small-team-2025-5">the </a>Insider. 
&#8220;Probably in 2025, we at Meta, as well as the other companies that are basically working on this, are going to have an AI that can effectively be a sort of midlevel engineer that you have at your company that can write code,&#8221; Zuckerberg said.
&#8220;I think that this is just going to lead to much better quality stuff that gets created around the world because now you&#8217;re just being able to have these, like, very small talent-dense teams that are, like, passionate about an idea,&#8221; he added and as quoted by the outlet.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/08/28389257/mark-zuckerberg-is-a-bad-person-he-is-creepy-controlling-this-is-what-metas-new-ai-bot-says-about-hi">Mark Zuckerberg Is &#8216;Kind Of Creepy And Controlling&#8217; &#8211; This Is What Meta&#8217;s New AI Chatbot Says About Its Boss</a>
Other tech magnates have also expressed similar views. Y Combinator CEO&nbsp;Garry Tan&nbsp;emphasized the idea of &#8220;vibe coding&#8221;, which enables small teams to deliver work that would usually necessitate a larger team. Shopify CEO&nbsp;Tobi Lütke&nbsp;and Google CEO&nbsp;Sundar Pichai&nbsp;have also championed the application of AI in their respective organizations.
However, despite the potential advantages, some experts have voiced concerns.&nbsp;Harry Law, an AI researcher&nbsp;at the University of Cambridge,&nbsp;cautioned that over-dependence on AI could impede understanding about system architecture or performance, and could complicate scaling or debugging.
Why It Matters: The endorsement of AI by Zuckerberg and other tech leaders underscores the growing recognition of AI&#8217;s potential to revolutionize the tech industry. While the benefits of AI are clear, the cautionary note struck by experts like Law highlights the need for a balanced approach. 
As AI continues to evolve, it will be crucial for startups and established companies alike to navigate the potential pitfalls while harnessing the transformative power of this technology.
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Zuckerberg Foresees Tech Industry Revolution With AI: 'An AI That Can Effectively Be a Sort of Midlevel Engineer'

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was direct in a recent <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-kq84Nm0vs">MSNBC</a> interview, sharply criticizing President Donald Trump&#8217;s approach to leadership and policy. Walz painted a stark contrast between his state&#8217;s efforts to improve lives through investment in public services and what he described as Trump&#8217;s self-serving style of governance.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;The Biggest Myth&#8217;</h2>
&#8220;I think the biggest myth that&#8217;s been brought to the American public is this guy knows anything about business, running a good business, treating workers fairly, growing in terms of helping the economy for others,&#8221; Walz told host Jen Psaki, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44235243/mark-cuban-once-questioned-whether-donald-trump-is-really-a-billionaire">dismissing Trump&#8217;s reputation</a> as a successful businessman. &#8220;It&#8217;s all about the grift.&#8221;
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Walz pointed to his own experience as a governor working to support struggling families, emphasizing the real-world impact of Trump&#8217;s policies. &#8220;We&#8217;re trying to figure out what the proposed cuts to the programs that most impact people who need it most,&#8221; he said, referencing his visit to a local food bank. &#8220;At the same time, you see this going on. It&#8217;s corruption.&#8221;
He warned that Trump could push the U.S. further down a dangerous path. &#8220;I said it many months ago that he will eventually try and incarcerate political opponents,&#8221; Walz said, adding that he expects Trump to fully embrace authoritarianism. &#8220;This guy will be in a military uniform before long. He is fully headed towards authoritarianism.&#8221;
Walz also criticized Trump&#8217;s approach to self-enrichment, arguing that his presidency has been more about <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44707622/melania-trumps-memecoin-team-secretly-sells-30-million-in-tokens-report">benefiting himself, his family</a>, and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40667098/donald-trumps-billions-on-hold-as-insiders-sell-off-truth-social-shares">his close circle</a> than helping the country.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;It&#8217;s About Enriching Themselves&#8217;</h2>
&#8220;It&#8217;s about enriching themselves, enriching his sons, enriching those around him and his donors,&#8221; Walz said. He added that this focus on personal gain puts the country&#8217;s democracy at risk. &#8220;I truly worry that the access to that office endangers not just our democracy.&#8221;&nbsp;
&#8220;My farmers have worked years to cultivate markets in a free market around the world, and we have thrived at that,&#8221; he said. &#8220;We feed the world. We clothe the world. We power the world. Donald Trump is now deciding that he gets to do all of that.&#8221;
Reflecting on Trump&#8217;s broader approach to governing, Walz rejected the idea that government should be run like a business. &#8220;No, we don&#8217;t need to run government like a business,&#8221; he said. &#8220;Because we&#8217;re not in the profit-making. We&#8217;re improving lives and looking towards the future. And this guy has a proven track record of being an absolute failure.&#8221;
See Also: Shark Tank's Kevin O'Leary called Missing Ring his biggest mistake — Don't repeat history—<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/big-tech-has-spent-billions-acquiring-ai-smart-home-startups-one-company-stands-to-benefit-and-has-already-made-10-million">invest in RYSE at just $1.90/share.</a>
Even with these challenges, Walz stressed that states like Minnesota are still focused on helping working families, pointing to recent improvements in education as proof that investing in public services makes a real difference.&nbsp;
&#8220;We provided free breakfast and free lunch. We provided the nation&#8217;s largest child tax credit. We invested more money in education and our teachers than at any time in our history,&#8221; he said, noting the state&#8217;s record-high graduation rates. &#8220;That&#8217;s the society we want to see.&#8221;
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Trump Has A 'Proven Track Record Of Being An Absolute Failure,' Says Gov. Tim Walz—'We Don't Need To Run Government Like A Business'

Shaquille O&#8217;Neal&#8216;s contentious comments about the late Jerry Buss, former owner of the Los Angeles Lakers, have made a comeback, stirring up memories of a heated NBA exchange.
What Happened: The incident can be traced back to May 2005 when O&#8217;Neal, fondly referred to as &#8220;Big Diesel&#8221;, publicly expressed his disapproval of Buss&#8217;s personal lifestyle. The friction between the two ignited after the 2003-04 NBA season when Buss reportedly had a significant hand in not renewing O&#8217;Neal&#8217;s contract, which resulted in his transfer to the Miami Heat.
As per the report <a href="https://www.basketballnetwork.net/old-school/when-shaquille-oneal-slammed-jerry-buss-for-dating-women-decades-younger">by </a>the Basketball Network, O&#8217;Neal, who had spent almost a decade with the Lakers, was profoundly aggrieved by the decision and Buss&#8217;s subsequent remarks implying the trade was a stimulus for O&#8217;Neal to improve his fitness. 
In retaliation, O&#8217;Neal took a jab at Buss&#8217;s notorious reputation for dating significantly younger women, asserting, &#8220;I&nbsp;needed a real owner —&nbsp;like Micky Arison. Not a&nbsp;guy who parties with girls&nbsp;that are three times younger.&#8221;
&#8220;When you are 60, hang out with 60-year-olds, not 20-year-olds,&#8221;&nbsp;advised the two-time scoring leader, adding,&nbsp;&#8220;That is all I got to say about Jerry Buss,&#8221; he mentioned. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/25/03/44209990/nba-legend-shaqs-walmart-shopping-spree-ends-in-credit-card-decline-heres-how-much-he-tried-to-spend">NBA Legend Shaq&#8217;s Walmart Shopping Spree Ends In Credit Card Decline—Here&#8217;s How Much He Tried To Spend</a>
Buss, the owner of the Lakers since 1979 until his death in 2013, was recognized for his relationships with younger women, often models or ex-Playboy bunnies. 
O&#8217;Neal&#8217;s comments underscored the tense relationship between the two post their professional separation, spotlighting the fleeting nature of loyalty in professional sports.
Why It Matters: This incident underscores the often complex and strained relationships between players and team owners in professional sports. 
It highlights the potential for personal disagreements to impact professional decisions, such as contract renewals and trades. Furthermore, it brings to light the issue of personal lifestyles of team owners, and how they can become a point of contention within the team dynamics. 
The resurfacing of these comments serves as a reminder of these challenges, and the ongoing need for professionalism and respect in the sporting industry.
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Shaquille O'Neal's Fiery Remarks on Late Lakers Owner Jerry Buss Resurface: 'Hang Out With 60-Year-Olds, Not 20-Year-Olds'

A new round of tariff hikes from President <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44143475/trumps-u-s-doge-service-claims-65b-in-savings-experts-call-it-smoke-and-mirrors-amid-resignations">Donald Trump's</a> administration has reignited trade tensions between the world's two largest economies.&nbsp;
"History will record that the actions President Trump has taken in recent days were the beginning of saving the West from complete economic domination by another power," White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller said in an April 13 interview on <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/video/6371444714112">Fox News</a>, referring to China's growing influence over global supply chains.
He described the latest tariff policy as "a turning point in U.S.-China relations."
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trade Clash Hits Strollers, Planes, And Small Businesses</h2>
The new tariff plan began with a 10% baseline on foreign imports, announced earlier this month by the White House.&nbsp;
It was followed by steep reciprocal tariffs that brought the total levies on Chinese imports to 145%, combining the original 20% duties and an added 125% retaliatory hike. China responded with tariffs of its own, hitting U.S. goods with 125% duties.&nbsp;
The standoff amounts to a mutual trade embargo impacting nearly $600 billion in annual trade. The effects are already filtering down to American households.&nbsp;
Baby strollers, car seats, and other child-related goods—many of which are produced in China—are getting pricier and scarcer. According to the <a href="https://apnews.com/article/baby-products-tariffs-strollers-car-seats-96496556c8913f521021d0c165eca977">Associated Press</a>, Munchkin CEO Steven Dunn warned that domestic manufacturers lack the skilled labor, automation, and tooling expertise needed to replace imports—raising fears of potential product shortages.
Trending: How do billionaires pay less in income tax than you?<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/tax-deferring-adv"> Tax deferring is their number one strategy</a>.
Small retailers are feeling the pressure, too. <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/main-street-trump-trade-war-tariffs-small-businesses-impact-2025-4">Business Insider</a> reported Alter Ego Comics in Lima, Ohio, is facing supplier price increases of up to 34%. Store owner Marc Bowker said his business is struggling to keep margins stable, and that passing the costs on to customers may not be enough to cover the rising expenses.
China has responded by seeking out alternative markets. <a href="https://www.euronews.com/business/2025/04/19/chinese-exporters-seek-new-markets-to-offset-us-tariff-impact-amid-trade-war">Euronews</a> reported on April 19 that trade fairs like the Canton Fair and China International Consumer Products Expo are key platforms, with many exporters exploring markets in Europe and investing in overseas production facilities to strengthen their global presence. This strategy aims to diversify their supply chains and improve resilience in the face of trade uncertainties.
See Also: <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>
The aerospace industry has also been affected. Last month, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/boeing-delivery-plant-china-latest-hot-spot-tariff-war-2025-04-17/">Reuters</a> reported that China has halted imports of Boeing aircraft and is shifting its purchases to domestic manufacturers like Comac. This development poses a challenge to Boeing Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>), a major U.S. exporter.
In the same interview, Miller accused <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44281204/jack-ma-xi-jinping-and-the-53b-ai-bet-alibabas-comeback-signals-a-new-era-for-chinese-big-tech">China </a>of "decades of intellectual property theft, industrial espionage, currency manipulation, and targeted dumping." He added it was "shameful" that the U.S. had allowed core elements of its critical infrastructure to depend on Chinese supply chains.
While Miller praised Trump's strategy as overdue, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/apr/13/ray-dalio-trump-tariffs-recession">The Guardian</a> reported concerns among economists that a prolonged standoff could spark a mild U.S. recession and weaken its position in global financial markets.
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Stephen Miller Says 'History Will Record' Trump's Tariffs As The Start Of Saving The West From China's Economic Domination'

He Xiaopeng, the cofounder of XPeng&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XPEV#NYSE">XPEV</a>), has revealed that the sales of new electric vehicles (EVs) equipped with advanced &#8220;hands-off&#8221; driver assist features have seen a significant surge in China over the past decade, outperforming Western markets.
What Happened: During Xpeng&#8217;s global brand night in Hong Kong last month, He disclosed that 50% of new cars sold in China last year were new energy vehicles (NEVs), including EVs and plug-in hybrids. He further added that 55.7% of these NEVs were equipped with advanced automated driving assist systems.
Contrarily, the U.S. and Europe are trailing behind with EV and plug-in hybrid sales making up only about 11% and 23% of their respective light vehicle markets. Even the most technologically advanced Western cars, like those from&nbsp;Tesla Inc.&nbsp;(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>), only have these advanced features in about a quarter of their vehicles.
According to a report <a href="https://fortune.com/2025/04/16/xpeng-xiaopeng-china-auto-industry-evs/">by </a>the Fortune, despite the intense competition in the Chinese market, He remains confident about&nbsp;XPeng making a significant global impact. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/07/39875598/xpeng-and-volkswagen-partner-for-new-project-house-focused-on-ev-architecture">Xpeng And Volkswagen Partner For New Project House Focused On EV Architecture</a>
He stated, &#8220;Over&nbsp;the next decade we aim&nbsp;for over half of our&nbsp;sales to come from overseas,&nbsp;striving to really dominate as&nbsp;China's leading mid- to high-end&nbsp;export brand.&#8221;
Why It Matters: This surge in China&#8217;s EV market signifies a shift in the global automotive industry. China&#8217;s rapid adoption of EVs and advanced driving systems indicates a growing consumer preference for sustainable and technologically advanced vehicles. 
This trend could potentially reshape the global automotive landscape, with China leading the way in EV technology and adoption.
Furthermore, the ambitious goals set by XPeng reflect the confidence of Chinese EV manufacturers in their ability to compete globally. 
This could potentially lead to increased competition in the global EV market, pushing innovation and development in the sector.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock/THINK A

Markets

TSLA

XPEV

China's EV Market Surges Past US and Europe—'China's Elon Musk' Shares Two Stats That Explain Why

Renowned investor&nbsp;Peter Lynch&nbsp;once opened up about his early experiences in the stock market, his initial investment, and the philosophy that guided <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44211455/peter-lynchs-evergreen-market-advice-if-you-cant-find-growth-companies-in-innings-three-through-five-look-at-turnarounds">his successful investing career.</a>
What Happened: Lynch, who is famous for his successful stint at Fidelity&#8217;s Magellan Fund, traced his interest in the stock market back to his childhood in the 1950s. His curiosity was piqued while working as a caddie at a golf club in West Newton, where he would often overhear corporate executives discussing stocks.
While studying at Boston College on a caddie scholarship, Lynch made his first investment in Flying Tiger, an air freight company. 
Convinced of the future of air cargo, he invested $1,000. The stock&#8217;s value soared during the Vietnam War as the company was involved in transporting troops, giving Lynch his first &#8220;ten bagger&#8221; &#8211; a term he coined for a stock that returns ten times the investment.
Lynch&#8217;s investment philosophy underscores the importance of letting successful stocks run. He believes that a few &#8220;ten baggers&#8221; can compensate for mediocre or poorly performing stocks in an investor&#8217;s portfolio. In Lynch&#8217;s words, &#8220;You have to let the&nbsp;big ones make up for&nbsp;your mistakes.&#8221;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45186124/peter-lynchs-market-observation-far-more-money-has-been-lost-by-investors-preparing-for-corrections-than-has-been-lost-in-corrections-themselves">Peter Lynch&#8217;s Market Observation: &#8216;Far More Money Has Been Lost By Investors Preparing For Corrections, Than Has Been Lost In Corrections Themselves&#8217;</a>
&#8220;The secret is if you have a lot of stocks, some will do mediocre, some will do okay, and if one of two of them go up big time, you produce a fabulous result. And I think that&#8217;s the promise to some people. Some stocks go up 20-30 percent and they get rid of it and they hold onto the dogs. And it&#8217;s sort of like watering the weeds and cutting out the flowers. You want to let the winners run. When the fun ones get better, add to them, and that one winner, you basically see a few stocks in your lifetime, that&#8217;s all you need,&#8221; Lynch said during an interview. 
Despite missing out on several stocks that increased ten-fold during his tenure at Magellan, Lynch&#8217;s approach proved to be successful. He reiterated that in investing, being&nbsp;right six times out of&nbsp;ten is considered good, and emphasized the importance of taking calculated risks.
Why It Matters: Lynch&#8217;s journey from a caddie to a celebrated investor highlights the importance of curiosity, calculated risk-taking, and patience in successful investing. 
His philosophy of letting successful stocks run and allowing &#8220;ten baggers&#8221; to make up for less successful investments offers valuable insights for both novice and experienced investors. 
His story serves as a reminder that success in investing doesn&#8217;t always come from being right all the time, but from being right enough times and letting those successes run.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock/AVM Images

Peter Lynch's Market Advice: 'If You Have Lot of Stocks, Some Will Do Mediocre, Some Will Do Okay,' If One or Two 'Go Up Big Time, You Produce a Fabulous Result'

If you're deep in debt, a five-minute call can save you thousands of dollars. That's what financial guru Ramit Sethi told his followers in a recent video about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNpMKHnswKs">getting out of debt</a>. He even offered a script you can use to ace the call.
"Here are the exact words to use," Sethi explained.
Essentially, Sethi is recommending that anyone in debt call their credit card company and ask for a lower APR. Credit card companies are not required to fulfill any requests, but knowing the basics of negotiating can go a long way in securing a more favorable APR.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Start The Request With A Promise To Pay Off Debt</h2>
Credit card companies want you to have a balance, but they also don't want you to default on the debt. If you have a high balance and have only made the minimum monthly payments, you can explain to your credit card company that you will commit to aggressively paying off the debt next week.
These are the exact words Sethi recommends using when you make this request. Note that you don't have to use the exact words, but they serve as a good guideline.
"Hi, I'm going to be paying off my credit card debt more aggressively beginning next week, and I'd like to lower my interest rate."
Trending: 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>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Give Yourself Leverage</h2>
This request may not be enough to secure a lower interest rate. The representative may press you on why you need a lower interest rate, but Sethi came prepared in his video. His recommended approach is to leverage the fact that you have been a long-term customer and that other credit card companies are offering better rates.
If you are in credit card debt, the company has made a lot of money off you over the years. They don't want to lose you, especially if you have been a loyal customer for several years.
Sethi's example depicts someone who has been a customer for eight years. These are the exact words he recommends.
"I've decided to be more aggressive about paying off my debt. Other cards are offering me rates at half [of] what you're offering. Can you lower my rate by 50% or only 40%? I've been a customer for 8 years, and I'd prefer not to switch my balance over to a low-interest card. Can you match the other credit card rates, or can you go lower?"
See Also: <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>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Switch Your Credit Card If Necessary</h2>
Even with Sethi's script, your credit card company may not budge. In that case, you may want to switch to a credit card that has an intro 0% APR offer for the first 12-24 months. You will enjoy a lower interest rate that will make it easier to pay off your debt.
This strategy is optimal if you have a high balance that will take several months or years to pay off. Your current credit card company and your new credit card company will both likely charge transfer fees. If you have a small balance or can pay it off in under six months, it's usually better to stay put.
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Ramit Sethi Reveals How To Save Thousands Of Dollars With A 5-Minute Call: 'Here Are The Exact Words To Use'

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43903135/ais-19-9-trillion-impact-could-create-the-first-trillionaire-but-mark-cuban-says-it-wont-be-musk-or-bezos">Artificial intelligence</a> is not just speeding up production lines anymore — it is coming straight for the coding world. During a<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU3E8r0n27w&amp;t=20s"> conversation</a> at Hamilton College in Upstate New York on April 3, former President Barack Obama warned that AI can now outperform &#8220;60–70% of programmers,&#8221; suggesting that only &#8220;the best coders&#8221; will survive the coming wave of automation.&nbsp;
As AI&#8217;s reach moves beyond traditional manufacturing and into knowledge-based industries, experts believe workers across all fields must rethink their roles.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AI Is Rewriting the Rules of Work</h2>
During the Hamilton College event, Obama shared that AI is transforming industries far beyond expectations. &#8220;Already, the current models of AI are not necessarily the ones that you purchase or that you just get through the retail ChatGPT, but the more advanced models that are available now to companies,&#8221; he said.&nbsp;
He emphasized that while top-tier coders will still thrive by integrating AI tools into their work, many standard coding tasks will be automated. &#8220;You just won&#8217;t need a coder,&#8221; he said.
Obama&#8217;s comments align with broader warnings from industry leaders. At the<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Pm2xEViNIo"> 2024 World Government Summit</a> in Dubai, Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) CEO Jensen Huang stated, &#8220;Almost everybody would tell you it is vital that your children learn computer science or how to program. In fact, it&#8217;s almost exactly the opposite.&#8221;&nbsp;
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Huang said that AI is closing the technology gap, making everyone capable of using technology without needing to learn traditional programming. He reiterated that coding may be losing relevance as AI becomes capable of handling programming tasks.&nbsp;
He also encouraged the next generation to explore other fields. &#8220;The countries, the people that understand how to solve a domain problem in digital biology or education of young people or in manufacturing or farming," he said. "Those who understand domain expertise now can utilize [coding] technology that is readily available to you.&#8221;&nbsp;
Adding another viewpoint, Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) co-founder Bill Gates<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHY5i9-0tJM"> discussed</a> the impact of artificial intelligence on the job market during an interview on NBC&#8217;s &#8220;The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon&#8221; in March.&nbsp;
&#8220;The era that we&#8217;re just starting is that intelligence is rare. You know, a great doctor, a great teacher. And with AI, over the next decade, will become free, commonplace,&#8221; he said.&nbsp;
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Gates predicted that AI would replace humans for most tasks within a decade, but not all. &#8220;There&#8217;ll be some things we reserve for ourselves,&#8221; he said. &#8220;We won&#8217;t want to watch computers play baseball.&#8221;
Employers across finance and tech are also shifting their hiring priorities. As<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/wall-street-software-engineers-ai-career-advice-finance-technologists-2025-4"> Business Insider</a> reported in April, firms like Goldman Sachs (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) and Morgan Stanley (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MS#NYSE">MS</a>) are now seeking engineers with strong business acumen and experience working alongside AI technologies, emphasizing skills such as prompt engineering.
Statistics further show the magnitude of the shift. Over the past two years, more than 27% of U.S. computer programming jobs have disappeared, according to a March analysis from <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/03/14/programming-jobs-lost-artificial-intelligence/">The Washington Post</a>.&nbsp;
Much of this decline has been attributed to AI&#8217;s ability to perform routine coding tasks more efficiently than human <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/02/43501133/suze-orman-sounds-alarm-on-retirement-readiness-40-of-retirees-lack-3-months-savings-heres-how-to-avoid-financial-risk">workers</a>.
Despite these changes, the human role in coding is not entirely vanishing. The<a href="https://www.wsj.com/articles/how-ai-tools-are-reshaping-the-coding-workforce-6ad24c86"> Wall Street Journal</a> reported that AI tools increasingly take over repetitive work, allowing human coders to focus on creative problem-solving, oversight, and complex systems architecture.
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Image: Shutterstock

MSFT

NVDA

Obama Says Only 'The Best Coders' Will Survive As AI Takes Over 60%–70% Of Programming Jobs — 'You Just Won't Need A Coder'

In the wake of a social media disagreement, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has made a peace offering to Tesla Inc.&#8217;s chief Elon Musk. 
What Happened: Altman underscored the importance of their mutual interest in artificial general intelligence (AGI), suggesting it should take precedence over their personal dispute.
On Saturday in a post on X, Altman extended an olive branch&nbsp;to Musk, in an effort to smooth over tensions that arose from past social media posts. 
Altman expressed a wish to work together with Musk, emphasizing the importance of AGI over their personal feud.
<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">anyway, see you next week, let's be friends &#x1f97a; &#x1f449;&#x1f448; agi too important to let a lil feud get in the way
&mdash; Sam Altman (@sama) <a href="https://twitter.com/sama/status/1921046473384341512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Musk recently resurrected an old post in which Altman criticized former US President Donald Trump. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44348000/elon-musk-and-sam-altman-just-agreed-on-one-thingand-no-its-not-a-business-deal">Elon Musk And Sam Altman Just Agreed On One Thing—And No, It&#8217;s Not A Business Deal</a>
In response, Altman indicated his readiness to let bygones be bygones, asserting that the advancement of AGI was more important than their disagreement.
<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">&#x1f914; <a href="https://t.co/skVOCyhgAm">https://t.co/skVOCyhgAm</a>
&mdash; gorklon rust (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1921016759005368793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 10, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Altman&#8217;s conciliatory approach follows a noticeable shift in his political views, evidenced by his contribution&nbsp;to the $500 billion Project&nbsp;Stargate, aimed at&nbsp;building AI infrastructure in the&nbsp;US. This development coincides with Musk&#8217;s critique of the direction OpenAI has taken under Altman&#8217;s guidance.
Despite a period of uncertainty, OpenAI confirmed earlier this week that the non-profit would maintain control of the company.
Why It Matters: The disagreement between Altman and Musk, two influential figures in the tech industry, has drawn significant attention. Their shared interest in AGI, a field with potentially far-reaching implications, underscores the importance of their collaboration. 
Altman&#8217;s recent political shift and contribution to Project Stargate suggest a new direction for OpenAI, one that could potentially align more closely with Musk&#8217;s vision. 
This reconciliation could mark a significant turning point for the development of AGI, a technology that could revolutionize various sectors, from healthcare to transportation.
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Image: Shutterstock/Photo Agency

OpenAI's Sam Altman Reaches Out to Elon Musk Amid Ongoing Social Media Spat: 'Let's Be Friends'

Glacier, the San Francisco-based AI robotics startup,<a href="https://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=337418"> announced</a> a $16 million Series A funding round on Tuesday to expand deployment of its waste-sorting <a href="https://benzinga.com/25/03/44492495/mark-cuban-suggests-taxing-robots-by-the-hour-as-new-source-of-federal-revenue-bats-for-ai-and-robotics-based-manufacturing-revival">robots</a> across U.S. recycling facilities.
The round was led by Ecosystem Integrity Fund, with participation from the Amazon Climate Pledge Fund and other investors. According to<a href="https://www.geekwire.com/2025/recycling-gets-smarter-ai-robots-from-amazon-backed-startup-are-sorting-waste-in-seattle/"> GeekWire</a>, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45170490/sellers-pull-out-of-amazon-prime-day-say-discounting-is-out-the-window-amid-tariffs">Amazon</a> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), which is already working with Glacier to test plant-based plastic sorting at its Seattle sustainability lab, has included the startup in its broader strategy to reduce single-use fossil fuel plastics across Amazon Fresh and Whole Foods packaging lines.
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The fresh capital brings Glacier's total funding to $29 million. With robots currently active in five states and vision technology operating in four others, the company plans to scale rapidly, GeekWire reports.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AI Vision Targets Plastics, Bottles, And Cans Missed By Humans</h2>
Recology, a major waste management company with operations across the West Coast, is using Glacier's technology to modernize recycling at its South Seattle material recovery facility, according to GeekWire.
Glacier's robots are designed to operate in material recovery facilities, where trucks deliver around 300 tons of mixed recyclables daily, GeekWire says. Equipped with AI vision trained on billions of images, the robots identify and grab items like shampoo bottles, milk jugs, and soda cans using suction-powered arms.
According to GeekWire, there are four Glacier robots already at Recology's South Seattle site. Two straddle conveyor belts, each scanning for a specific type of high-density polyethylene plastic. A third grabs stray bottles missed upstream, and a fourth pulls cans before they reach the end of the line.
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&#8220;AI is more accurate in detecting the material it&#8217;s going after,&#8221; Justin Johnson, operations manager at Recology told Seattle's<a href="https://komonews.com/news/local/recycling-plant-artificial-equipped-300-tons-south-seattle-landfills-washington-state-king-county-technology-transform-operations-company-conservation-efforts-maple-valley-issaquah"> KOMO-TV</a>. He highlighted that these robots can sort through 45 items a minute, efficiently picking up materials and depositing them into the appropriate recycling bins.
According to GeekWire, Glacier co-founder Areeb Malik, a former Facebook engineer, said that the machines can recover 80%–90% of target materials, roughly matching the accuracy of human sorters.
Glacier's robots currently operate in Washington state, California, Michigan, Arizona, and Illinois. GeekWire says that only the vision tech has been deployed to pilot testing in states like Texas and New Jersey. The startup currently employs 35 people and expects to grow alongside state-level recycling reforms.
Amazon's support goes beyond capital. At its Seattle sustainability lab, the company is testing Glacier's robots for use with bio-based plastics, such as biopolyesters.
"Glacier and Recology are proving out the full potential of this technology," Glacier co-founder Rebecca Hu-Thrams told GeekWire during a tour of the Seattle site. "We live in an incredible era where the tools to supercharge recycling already exist."
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Legislation Adds Momentum As Glacier Expands</h2>
According to GeekWire, Washington state lawmakers recently passed Senate Bill 5284, which would require product brands to help pay for recycling while standardizing materials accepted curbside. The legislation aims to boost household recycling from 83% to over 95% and increase annual recycled material per household from 325 pounds to 525 pounds.
Glacier's modular, fast-install robots offer a scalable solution to meet those goals. With machines capturing high-value plastics in real time and reducing strain on human labor, the company may play a central role in reshaping American recycling infrastructure.
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Amazon-Backed Glacier's $16M Funding Boosts AI Robots Capable Of Sorting 30+ Material Types, Transforming Recycling Industry

<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li>Skechers will be acquired by 3G Capital, it announced Monday</li>
<li>The investment firm purchased the footwear giant for $9.5 billion in a deal that will take it private</li>
<li>The acquisition comes at a time when tariffs have companies in the footwear industry nervous about the future</li>
</ul>
Skechers (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SKX#NYSE">SKX</a>) <a href="https://investors.skechers.com/press-releases/detail/665/skechers-agrees-to-be-acquired-by-3g-capital">announced Monday</a> that it will be acquired by global investment firm 3G Capita for $9.5 billionl.
The third-largest shoe company in the world, Skechers was founded in 1992 by father-son duo Robert and Michael Greenberg. The company is still founder-run, and the Greenbergs will retain their respective positions as CEO and president after the take-private deal closes.&nbsp;&nbsp;
3G Capital has previously acquired Burger King and Tim Hortons and is responsible for the Kraft-Heinz merger.
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According to Skechers, 3G will buy out each of the company's 18 million public shares in one of two ways. Either it will pay $63 in cash for each share, or it will pay $57 per share with the addition of a single share in the new LLC that will become Skecher's parent company.
"Over the last three decades, Skechers has experienced tremendous growth," Robert Greenberg said. "Given [3G Capital's] remarkable history of facilitating the success of some of the most iconic global consumer businesses, we believe this partnership will support our talented team as they execute their expertise to meet the needs of our consumers and customers while enabling the Company's long-term growth."
The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of this year.
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In 2024, Skechers <a href="https://investors.skechers.com/press-releases/detail/649/skechers-announces-2024-record-annual-sales-of-8-97-billion#:~:text=%E2%80%9CSkechers%20delivered%20exceptional%20results%20in,Chief%20Financial%20Officer%20of%20Skechers.">reported</a> a record $9 billion in sales. Some 62% of those sales take place outside the U.S., in one of the 180 countries the company has a presence in, according to a recent <a href="https://d1io3yog0oux5.cloudfront.net/_e894474d4a7decf3b34cdfdb91ca3804/skx/db/433/3612/pdf/Skechers+2025+Investor+Presentation+%28Growth%29+vFinal.pdf">investor presentation</a>.&nbsp;
The deal with 3G Capital comes at a time when uncertainties about international sales and imports are increasing. Skechers, in particular, could feel the crunch of those tariffs since its&nbsp; manufacturing operations are primarily overseas in places like China and India. Tariffs on products made in China currently sit at 145% and at 26% on products made in India.
But the potential financial shift doesn't seem to have shaken 3G Capital's feelings on the deal. "We have immense admiration for the business that this team has built, and look forward to supporting the Company's next chapter," Alex Behring and Daniel Schwartz, co-managing partners of the firm, said in the announcement.&nbsp;
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Image: Shutterstock

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