First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF (NASDAQ: ROBT)

에 대한 최신 뉴스 First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF (NASDAQ:ROBT)

First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF

Technology

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Consumer Defensive

The fund will normally invest at least 90% of its net assets (including investment borrowings) in common stocks and depositary receipts that comprise the index. The index is designed to track the performance of companies engaged in the artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics segments of the technology, industrial and other economic sectors. The fund is non-diversified.

SentinelOne Inc.

Servicenow Inc

Illumina, Inc.

Pegasystems, Inc.

Palantir Technologies Inc.

Ocado Group Plc

Appian Corp

Palo Alto Networks Inc.

Workday Inc Com Usd.001 Cl A

The U.S. stock market experienced a robust session with the Nasdaq Composite climbing 2.45% to 19,511.23 and the S&amp;P 500 rising by 1.8% to 5,949.91. The Dow Jones Industrial Average also saw gains, increasing by 1.65% to 43,221.55. 
These are the top stocks that gained the attention of retail traders and investors throughout the day:
Quantum Computing Inc.
Quantum Computing Inc. shares soared by 55.45%, closing at $11.55. The stock reached an intraday high of $11.60 and a low of $8.51, with a 52-week range of $27.15 to $0.35. The surge followed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43004816/whats-going-on-with-quantum-computing-stock-today">NVIDIA Corp.&#8217;s announcement</a> of its inaugural Quantum Day, scheduled for March 20 during the GTC 2025 event. This announcement comes shortly after CEO Jensen Huang mentioned that practical quantum computing might still be two decades away. Additionally, Microsoft Corporation&#8217;s plans to make its business clients &#8220;quantum-ready&#8221; by 2025 added to the excitement.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.
Taiwan Semiconductor&#8217;s stock rose by 2.61%, closing at $206.80. The day&#8217;s trading saw a high of $209.04 and a low of $199.35, with a 52-week range of $222.20 to $100. The company is set to release its fourth-quarter financial results, with analysts expecting a fifth consecutive revenue beat. The anticipated revenue is $26.28 billion, up from $19.62 billion in the same quarter last year, driven by strong semiconductor demand and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43015316/taiwan-semiconductor-q4-earnings-preview-analysts-expect-fifth-straight-beat-will-investors-get-comments-on-trump-impact">potential benefits</a> from the new U.S. administration.
Meta Platforms Inc.
Meta Platforms saw a 3.85% increase, closing at $617.12. The stock hit an intraday high of $622.46 and a low of $606.50, with a 52-week range of $638.40 to $358.61. An internal memo revealed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/25/01/42995912/meta-plans-to-cut-5-of-staff-backfill-roles-in-2025-says-internal-memo">plans for performance-based job cuts</a>, aiming for a 10% &#8220;non-regrettable attrition&#8221; rate by the end of the current performance cycle. This strategy involves classifying employees into performance tiers based on their contributions over the past year.
Intuitive Surgical Inc.
Intuitive Surgical&#8217;s shares jumped by 7.65%, closing at $580.11. The stock reached an intraday high of $584.60 and a low of $549.17, with a 52-week range of $584.60 to $355.17. The increase followed the company&#8217;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/01/43007218/why-intuitive-surgical-shares-are-surging-wednesday">preliminary fourth-quarter results</a>, which showed expected revenue of approximately $2.41 billion, surpassing analyst estimates of $2.2 billion. The company also reported a significant growth in da Vinci procedures and system placements.
Tesla, Inc.
Tesla&#8217;s stock rose by 8.04%, closing at $428.22. The day&#8217;s trading saw a high of $429.80 and a low of $405.66, with a 52-week range of $488.54 to $138.80. The rise was influenced by recent data from Kelley Blue Book ranking Tesla&#8217;s Model Y and Model 3 as the top-selling electric vehicles. Despite selling about 37,000 fewer cars in 2024 compared to 2023, Tesla <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43014719/whats-going-on-with-tesla-shares-wednesday">maintained its lead</a> in the EV market, with increased competition noted as a factor.
Image via Shutterstock
Prepare for the day&#8217;s trading <a href="https://editorial.benzinga.com/wp-admin/Premarket%20Movers%20&amp;%20News">with top premarket movers and news</a> by Benzinga.
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This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

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Quantum Computing, Taiwan Semiconductor, Meta, Intuitive Surgical, And Tesla: Why These 5 Stocks Are On Investors' Radars Today

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) is reportedly exploring new partnerships to take over from Goldman Sachs (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>) as its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/10/41501333/apple-goldman-sachs-fined-89-million-over-apple-card-missteps-government-watchdog-orders-victim-comp">credit card partner</a>.
What Happened: The discussions with Barclays (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BCS#NYSE">BCS</a>) have been ongoing for several months, but a deal may still take time to finalize, reported Reuters.
Apple has also engaged Synchrony Financial (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SYF#NYSE">SYF</a>) in discussions regarding the card partnership.
Apple, Barclays, and Synchrony did not immediately respond to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42993561/is-openais-chatgpt-about-to-make-amazons-alexa-apples-siri-and-google-assistant-a-thing-of-the-past" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Siri, Alexa And Google Assistant May Become A Thing Of The Past Thanks To ChatGPT Tasks — Here's How To Use The New Feature</a>
JPMorgan Chase (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) has also been in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/40907844/jpmorgan-in-talks-to-take-over-apple-credit-card-what-investors-need-to-know">talks with Apple since last year</a>.
Why It Matters: This discussion comes as Goldman Sachs, which launched the credit card with Apple in 2019, has decided to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/10/35262321/goldman-sachs-wants-to-opt-out-of-consumer-lending-including-apple-card-general-motors-card">step back from its consumer finance</a> ambitions.&nbsp;
Goldman&#8217;s current credit card agreement with Apple is set to last until 2030, but it might conclude earlier.
Internal challenges and financial difficulties have prompted the bank to reevaluate its position in the consumer finance sector.
This strategic shift aligns with Goldman&#8217;s decision to transfer its General Motors credit card business to Barclays.
Several financial institutions are interested in partnering with Apple. However, some view the original deal terms as risky and unprofitable, the report noted.
Price Action: Apple&#8217;s shares rose 1.97% on Wednesday, closing at $237.87. In after-hours trading, they climbed an additional 0.31% to reach $238.60, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/01/42900737/stephen-king-slams-elon-musks-h-1b-visa-stance-musk-thinks-smart-immigrants-can-stay-the-rest-of-you-washing-dishes-get-lost" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Stephen King Slams Elon Musk's H-1B Visa Stance: ‘Musk Thinks Smart Immigrants Can Stay – The Rest of You Washing Dishes … Get Lost'</a></li>
</ul>
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

AAPL

Apple Eyes Barclays And Synchrony To Replace Goldman Sachs As Credit Card Partner: Report

Leading cryptocurrencies surged Wednesday amid softer-than-expected consumer inflation and a friendlier regulatory environment under Donald Trump.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+3.08%</td>
<td>$99,743.07</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+5.46%</td>
<td>$3,394.95</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+5.54%</td>
<td>$0.3787</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin topped the $100,000 mark for the first time in nearly 10 days as the leading cryptocurrency reacted to key bullish developments. 
While the latest Consumer Price Index data showed hints of slowing inflation, a report raised hopes for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43008666/sec-under-trump-administration-to-revise-crypto-policies-report">clear cryptocurrency regulations under new SEC leadership</a>.&nbsp;
Ethereum, the second-largest cryptocurrency, reentered the $3.400 zone, hitting an intraday high of $3,465.
Over $350 million were liquidated from the cryptocurrency market in the last 24 hours, with 63% accounting for downside bets.
The market was getting overleveraged, and nearly $1 billion in longs risked liquidation if Bitcoin reversed to $93,000.&nbsp;
About 53% of Binance traders expected Bitcoin to correct, as the Long/Short ratio fell below 1.
The "Greed" sentiment increased from 70 to 75 in the last 24 hours, according to the Crypto Fear &amp; Greed Index, indicating a surge in buying pressure.
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 7:30 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Virtuals Protocol (VIRTUAL)</td>
<td>+24.02%</td>
<td>$3.70</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fartcoin (FARTCOIN)</td>
<td>+23.04%</td>
<td>$1.26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>XDC Network (XDC)</td>
<td>+19.26%</td>
<td>$0.1328</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization stood at $3.51 trillion, rising 4.37% in the last 24 hours.
Stocks lifted on Wednesday following the release of consumer inflation data. The Dow Jones Industrial Average popped 703.27 points, or 1.65%, to 43,221.55 The S&amp;P 500 lifted 1.83% to close at 5,949.91. The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite erased losses from the previous day, surging 2.45% to 19,511.23.
December's Consumer Price Index report <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/01/43001512/inflation-rises-to-29-in-december-core-slows-yet-rising-energy-costs-put-feds-target-at-risk">revealed core inflation grew slower than expected</a>, sparking excitement in the market and driving the stocks up. Notably, the headline Consumer Price Index matched analysts' expectations.
That said, investors expected the current interest rate range of 4.25%–4.50% to remain unchanged at the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting, <a href="https://www.cmegroup.com/markets/interest-rates/cme-fedwatch-tool.html">according </a>to the CME FedWatch tool.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Popular on-chain analytics firm CryptoQuant <a href="https://cryptoquant.com/insights/research/6786ce381001ca2735a9a73c-14-January-2025-2025-Bitcoin-Price-Outlook-Institutional-Flows-Could-Drive-Bitco">projected </a>Bitcoin to hit $145,000-$249,000 in 2025, spurred by substantial institutional capital flows.
A mixture of a positive regulatory environment under a pro-cryptocurrency Trump administration, "accommodative" monetary policy, and the fact that Bitcoin was in the most bullish phase of its 4-year cycle could accelerate momentum, according to the research firm.
Widely followed cryptocurrency trader Michaël van de Poppe predicted the market would shift from this point on as Bitcoin breaks $100,000 and Ethereum confirms a bullish divergence.
<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"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bitcoin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bitcoin</a> above $100,000. Yields drop 3% on the day (15bps). <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24ETH&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$ETH</a> breaks back upwards and confirms the bullish divergence and higher low.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> outperform Bitcoin. The rotation has started. <a href="https://t.co/Mvevi94sdX">pic.twitter.com/Mvevi94sdX</a>
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1879623548534464876?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
"Dollar will become weaker, rates will go down, altcoins will go up," he remarked.&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Now we're getting into the stage where markets are turning, Dollar will become weaker, rates will go down, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Altcoins?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Altcoins</a> will go up. And people won't believe it.
&mdash; Michaël van de Poppe (@CryptoMichNL) <a href="https://twitter.com/CryptoMichNL/status/1879582423345959210?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 15, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Photo by CMP_NZ on Shutterstock
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

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Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin Rally On Positive Inflation Data, Trump's Pro-Crypto Moves: Analyst Projects BTC Could Top $200K Range In 2025

In his farewell address from the Oval Office Wednesday night, President Joe Biden raised concerns about an emerging tech oligarchy and social media&#8217;s impact on American democracy, signaling potential regulatory headwinds for the technology sector.
Biden, who announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race in July, warned that Americans face &#8220;an avalanche of misinformation&#8221; while social media platforms abandon fact-checking efforts. 
&#8220;I&#8217;m equally concerned about the potential rise of a tech industrial complex that could pose real dangers for our country,&#8221; Biden <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/live/">said</a>, suggesting increased scrutiny of social media companies may be forthcoming.
Biden highlighted his administration&#8217;s recent diplomatic achievement in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The deal, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/43013312/defense-stocks-fall-on-gaza-ceasefire-while-broader-market-rallies-whats-going-on">finalized earlier Wednesday</a>, includes provisions for releasing American hostages in its first phase.
The 81-year-old President endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party&#8217;s presidential candidate. However, Harris ultimately lost the election to President-elect Donald Trump. 
In his endorsement, Biden emphasized the critical importance of preserving American institutions as the foundation of a free and democratic society.
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Image Via Shutterstock
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Biden's Farewell Address Targets Tech Oligarchy In Trump 2.0 Era: President Says Americans Face 'Avalanche Of Misinformation'

Hindenburg Research, the influential short-selling firm that rattled global markets with high-profile exposés of companies like Adani Group and Nikola Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NKLA#NASDAQ">NKLA</a>), <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/management/25/01/43017547/hindenburg-research-is-closing-up-shop-we-shook-some-empires-that-we-felt-needed-shaking">announced its closure Wednesday</a> after a seven-year run that reshaped modern activist investing.
What Happened: Founder Nathan Anderson, who started Hindenburg in 2017, cited personal reasons for disbanding the 11-person firm, marking the end of an era that saw the boutique research shop take on corporate giants and billionaires worldwide.
The firm&#8217;s investigations led to nearly 100 civil and criminal charges against various executives and companies, according to Anderson&#8217;s farewell <a href="https://hindenburgresearch.com/gratitude/">note</a>. One of its most impactful reports targeted India&#8217;s Adani Group in 2023, wiping more than $100 billion in market value and eventually leading to U.S. prosecutors indicting founder Gautam Adani for alleged fraud.
Hindenburg&#8217;s methodical approach to exposing corporate misconduct first gained prominence in 2020 with its report on electric vehicle maker Nikola. The investigation revealed that the company had staged a video of its electric truck rolling downhill to appear self-powered, ultimately leading to founder Trevor Milton&#8216;s four-year prison sentence for fraud.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/43013312/defense-stocks-fall-on-gaza-ceasefire-while-broader-market-rallies-whats-going-on">Defense Stocks Fall On Gaza Ceasefire While Broader Market Rallies: What&#8217;s Going On?</a>
Why It Matters: The firm&#8217;s departure follows a broader trend of high-profile <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/jim-chanos">short-sellers stepping back</a>, including Jim Chanos, known for exposing Enron&#8216;s fraud, who closed his hedge fund in 2023. Unlike traditional investment firms, Hindenburg managed only its own capital while publishing detailed research that often triggered regulatory investigations and market selloffs.
Recent targets included Carl Icahn&#8216;s Icahn Enterprises LP (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEP#NASDAQ">IEP</a>) and Block Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SQ#NYSE">SQ</a>), led by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey. In its final report on Jan. 2, the firm accused Carvana Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVNA#NYSE">CVNA</a>) of accounting irregularities, though the company denied these allegations.
Anderson plans to spend the next six months documenting Hindenburg&#8217;s investigative methods, potentially enabling a new generation of market watchdogs. &#8220;My hope is that someone embraces the same passion, learns the craft, and finds the confidence to shed light on subjects that need it,&#8221; he wrote.
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Photo courtesy: Hindenburg Research
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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From Adani To Nikola: How Hindenburg Research Reshaped Short-Selling Before Its Final Bow

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) co-founder Steve Jobs once dramatically rejected the first iPod prototype by dropping it into an aquarium.
What Happened: This incident was recounted by former Apple employee Amit Chaudhary on Quora.&nbsp;
As per Chaudhary, during the initial presentation of the iPod prototype, Jobs examined the device and deemed it too large. Despite engineers&#8217; assertion that further miniaturization was impossible, Jobs remained unconvinced.
&#8220;Jobs was quiet for a moment. Finally, he stood, walked over to an aquarium, and dropped the iPod in the tank,&#8221; Chaudhary recounted.
He quoted Jobs saying, &#8220;Those are air bubbles … That means there&#8217;s space in there. Make it smaller.&#8221;
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42993561/is-openais-chatgpt-about-to-make-amazons-alexa-apples-siri-and-google-assistant-a-thing-of-the-past">Siri, Alexa And Google Assistant May Become A Thing Of The Past Thanks To ChatGPT Tasks — Here&#8217;s How To Use The New Feature</a>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/15192713/Screenshot-2025-01-16-at-5.57.07%E2%80%AFAM-1024x714.png" alt="" class="wp-image-735736" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: Quora</figcaption></figure>
Subscribe to the <a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a> to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
Why It Matters: The iPod, released on Oct. 23, 2001, marked a pivotal moment for Apple, transforming the company and the personal electronics market.
The device&#8217;s launch was a significant milestone, leading to the development of various iterations, including the iPod Mini in 2004, the iPod Nano in 2006, and the iPod Touch in 2007.
The iPod&#8217;s success played a crucial role in Apple&#8217;s growth, contributing to its expansion into new business segments. The product&#8217;s influence extended beyond its lifecycle, laying the groundwork for future innovations like the iPhone and iPad.
Although Apple announced the discontinuation of the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/05/27124846/apples-ipod-is-coming-to-an-end-but-the-music-lives-on">iPod in May 2022</a>, its legacy continues to impact the company&#8217;s trajectory and the broader technology landscape.
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech">following this link</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Steve Jobs Dropped The First iPod Prototype In A Fish Tank And It Wasn't To Test If It Was Waterproof

MBIO

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

ALVR

UPDATE: MetLife Responds To Report On Cyberattack, Says "We are aware of a cyberattack impacting Ecuador-based Fondo Genesis. As Fondo Genesis operates separately from MetLife's enterprise systems, this incident has not impacted any other parts of the MetLife business. Fondo Genesis is a financial services company operating only in Ecuador that is owned by Chilean pension manager ProVida, a subsidiary of MetLife."

With a 432% gain over the last year, XRP Token (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/xrp/usd">XRP</a>) is one of the top gainers among <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42225289/heres-how-much-100-invested-in-xrp-token-today-will-be-worth-if-crypto-returns-to-all-time-highs">the largest cryptocurrencies.</a>
XRP has soared in recent months with new catalysts and optimism for the incoming White House administration. Here's a look at what's next and a look back to where the crypto traded 10 years ago.
What Happened: XRP token <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42998671/xrp-price-surges-another-7-5-what-is-going-on">soared higher on Wednesday, </a>with a 14.8% gain and a new one-month and one-year high of $3.06. The cryptocurrency is up 29% over the last month.
The cryptocurrency continues to draw attention with speculation of new XRP ETFs getting approved and large transactions of the cryptocurrency ahead of Donald Trump's inauguration on Monday, Jan. 20.
Executives from Ripple Labs, the company behind XRP Token, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/42865935/trump-meets-top-ripple-executives-ceo-says-strong-start-to-2025-as-technicals-favor-xrp-bulls">recently met with Trump</a> and shared a picture on social media platform X.
Ripple CEO Brad Garlinghouse and Chief Legal Office Stuart Alderoty were in the picture with the post, which could hint at future cooperation and the end of legal challenges against Ripple.
While XRP has not returned to all-time highs set back in early 2018, the cryptocurrency is among the top gainers in the last year of the most valuable cryptocurrencies. XRP is currently the third most valuable crypto with a market capitalization of more than $175 billion at the time of writing.
Garlinghouse<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42808375/ripple-ceo-celebrates-trumps-impact-on-crypto-industry-says-34th-of-companys-new-hires-us-based" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> also recently disclosed</a> 75% of Ripple&#8217;s job openings are based in the U.S., a strong contrast to where the company&#8217;s hiring practices were over the past four years. The CEO also said that more U.S. deals had been signed in the past six weeks of 2024 than in the previous six months in the past year.
Ripple executives sound optimistic about the new White House administration and are letting investors and holders know that Trump could be good for the company and its token, with Garlinghouse labeling the &#8220;Trump bull market&#8221; as helping turn the cryptocurrency market around.
&#8220;Say what you want, but the ‘Trump effect&#8217; is already making crypto great again — through his campaign, and in the administration&#8217;s day one priorities.&#8221;
While Trump becoming president could be good for cryptocurrencies and also help end Ripple&#8217;s legal battles with the SEC, he&#8217;s not the first former president to show support for Ripple.
Jan. 15 marks the SEC's deadline for an opening brief in the appeal for its case against Ripple. In July 2023, Ripple received a favorable ruling on the case. The<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/24/11/42173824/if-you-invested-1000-in-xrp-token-when-sec-lawsuit-caused-mass-panic-heres-how-much-youd-have-today"> case brought by the SEC</a> dates back to Dec. 22, 2020 when charges were filed.
The case is one of many that could disappear under the new White House administration and could send the price of XRP even higher in the coming weeks.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42960104/congressman-who-wanted-airport-named-after-donald-trump-buys-bitcoin-solana-xrp-token-ahead-of-inauguration">Congressman Who Wanted Airport Named After Trump Buys Bitcoin, Solana, XRP Token Ahead Of Inauguration</a>
Investing $1,000 in XRP: Not all cryptocurrencies have been around for 10 years or more, but XRP is one of the cryptos that has shown a long history of price action.
XRP dates back to 2012, but for this hypothetical investment the price from 10 years ago is used.
XRP traded at a high of $0.01654 on Jan. 15, 2015. A $1,000 investment at the time could have purchased 60,459.49 XRP.
Today, that $1,000 investment would be worth a staggering $185,006.04. This represents a potential return of 18,400.6% over the past 10 years.
While it is less likely that XRP will gain the same 18,400.6% over the next 10 years, the hypothetical investment shows how a small investment in cryptocurrency can grow over time if the crypto remains relevant and has major use cases and adoption like XRP has.
Read Next: 
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/education/25/01/42903016/if-you-invested-1000-in-xrp-token-when-bill-clinton-spoke-at-ripple-conference-heres-how-much-youd-have-today">If You Invested $1,000 In XRP Token When Bill Clinton Spoke At Ripple Conference, Here&#8217;s How Much You&#8217;d Have Today</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Education

$XRP

If You Invested $1,000 In XRP Token 10 Years Ago, Here's How Much You'd Have Today

Safe &amp; Smart Florida, the group behind Florida&#8217;s failed attempt to legalize recreational cannabis in November 2024, has <a href="https://smartandsafeflorida.com/">launched a new initiative</a> to do it again in a 2026 ballot.
The "Adult Personal Use of Marijuana," initiative was filed on Tuesday, first <a href="https://floridapolitics.com/archives/715832-recreational-pot-supporters-launch-fresh-campaign-to-put-new-measure-on-the-ballot/">reported</a> by Florida Politics, noting that it was the first ballot petition filed in 2025.
The new initiative "Allows adults 21 and older to possess, purchase, or use marijuana for non-medical consumption. Establishes possession limits. Prohibits marketing and packaging attractive to children. Prohibits smoking and vaping in public. Maintains prohibition on driving under influence,&#8221; and more. 
Florida Politics pointed out that the campaign launched this new effort to put legal marijuana up for a vote just one day after Gov. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ron-desantis" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ron DeSantis</a> called a special session asking lawmakers to crackdown on &#8220;fraudulent signatures&#8221; to place amendments on the ballot. Leaders of the legislature, per the outlet, said they do not intend to allow DeSantis &#8220;to dictate what issues are ultimately considered by lawmakers.&#8221;
This past November, the ballot measure, known as Amendment 3, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/11/41763514/florida-rejects-cannabis-legalization-amendment-supported-by-trump-detested-by-desantis">fell short </a>of the 60% vote required to pass an amendment in Florida though it received nearly 57% support across the state. The amendment faced tough and sustained opposition from DeSantis&nbsp;and the Florida Republican Party.
Over the course of its efforts, Smart &amp; Safe&#8217;s legalization campaign pulled in at least $150 million, making it the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/06/39565658/desantis-anti-cannabis-florida-freedom-fund-raises-barely-a-fraction-of-legalization-committees-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">best-funded cannabis legalization</a>&nbsp;initiative in U.S. history, with medical marijuana giant&nbsp;Trulieve Cannabis Corp. (OTC:&nbsp;TCNNF) contributing the bulk of it.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Cannabis Stocks Respond</h1>
Cannabis stocks, which had dropped slightly on news that the DEA hearings on rescheduling cannabis <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42972524/dea-judge-cancels-marijuana-rescheduling-hearing-amid-disturbing-allegations-of-improper-conduct">were put on hold</a> for three months, seemed to perk up a bit with the Florida initiative news.
ETFs such as AdvisorShares Pure US Cannabis (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSOS#NYSE">MSOS</a>) rose 0.29% and AdvisorShares Pure Cannabis (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YOLO#NYSE">YOLO</a>) went up 0.87% at the close. Trulieve Cannabis ended down 2.23% while Green Thumb Industries (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTBIF#OTC">GTBIF</a>) rose 0.28%. Tilray Brands (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TLRY#NASDAQ">TLRY</a>) held steady. Other multi-state operators seemed unfazed by the news, at least for now.
Now Read:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42972524/dea-judge-cancels-marijuana-rescheduling-hearing-amid-disturbing-allegations-of-improper-conduct">DEA Judge Cancels Marijuana Rescheduling Hearing Amid &#8216;Disturbing&#8217; Allegations Of Improper Conduct</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: El Planteo

Cannabis

Government

Regulations

Politics

Legal

ETFs

GTBIF

MSOS

TCNNF

TLRY

YOLO

Cannabis Legalization Headed For The Ballot Again In Florida: Advocates Launch New Amendment Initiative

UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 8.74% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 20.51%. Currently, UnitedHealth Group has a market capitalization of $500.10 billion. 
Buying $1000 In UNH: If an investor had bought $1000 of UNH stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $15,728.51 today based on a price of $543.42 for UNH at the time of writing.
<h3>UnitedHealth Group's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736984708_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.

Here's How Much You Would Have Made Owning UnitedHealth Group Stock In The Last 15 Years

President-elect Donald Trump is considering issuing an executive order aimed at rescuing TikTok from being banned from U.S. app<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42931704/tiktok-users-call-on-trump-to-deliver-immediately-on-his-promise-to-save-app-from-us-ban-we-dont-need-the-supreme-court-to"> stores in four days.&nbsp;</a>
What To Know: According to the Washington Post, sources familiar with the matter said Trump is brainstorming strategies to save TikTok from the law signed by President Joe Biden set to ban the app on Sunday. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/01/42979220/biden-announces-more-student-loan-forgiveness-bringing-debt-relief-to-nearly-5-million-borrowers">Biden Announces More Student Loan Forgiveness, Bringing Debt Relief To Nearly 5 Million Borrowers</a>
One of the strategies Trump is considering is an executive order that would suspend enforcement of the law for 60 to 90 days. One source said the president-elect would like to be seen "making a deal" to save the popular social media app. 
It is not clear whether an executive order would keep TikTok in U.S. app stores, overriding a law passed by Congress.&nbsp;
"TikTok will still be banned, and it will still be illegal for Apple and Google to do business with them. But it will make the president's intention not to enforce the law that much more official," Alan Rozenshtein, a former national security adviser to the Justice Department, told the Washington Post.&nbsp;
What Else: A Bloomberg report on Monday suggested that Elon Musk is in talks with Chinese officials regarding a potential scenario where Musk's X platform <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42965533/elon-musk-emerges-as-potential-tiktok-us-buyer-as-ban-deadline-looms-company-terms-it-pure-fiction">could take over </a>TikTok's U.S. operations.&nbsp;
However, a TikTok spokesperson denied the report telling Benzinga, "We can't be expected to comment on pure fiction."
Other interested parties include Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>) and Oracle Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>), as well as a consortium led by the "Shark Tank" investor Kevin O'Leary.
If no deal is reached by the deadline, TikTok <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/social-media/25/01/42957741/tiktok-ban-deadline-ahead-what-will-happen-to-app-on-your-phone">will be banned</a> from app stores in the U.S. on Sunday, Jan. 19. 
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/42919029/supreme-court-hears-tiktok-oral-arguments">Supreme Court Hears TikTok Arguments With App&#8217;s Ban Ahead: &#8216;Essentially, The Platform Shuts Down&#8217;&nbsp;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Social Media

General

MSFT

ORCL

Trump Considers Executive Order To 'Save' TikTok From Being Banned In 4 Days

Silicon Valley billionaires are poised to join forces with protectionist hard-liners in Trump&#8217;s second term, marking an alliance that could fundamentally reshape American economic policy.
The incoming administration&#8217;s economic team is a mix of competing interests, including tech industry power brokers and America-first ideologues, creating what The Economist describes as the largest and most diverse group of economic advisers in presidential history.&nbsp;
At its center is Elon Musk, whose new role leading a government efficiency drive signals Trump&#8217;s embrace of tech industry disruption within the federal bureaucracy.
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<li>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>.</li>
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</ul>
Commerce Secretary nominee Howard Lutnick underscores the administration's protectionist tilt, saying before the election, &#8220;You&#8217;ve got to tariff the rest of the world. Keep them the heck out. Bring the manufacturing back here.&#8221; Even traditionally moderate nominees like Treasury pick Scott Bessent and National Economic Council leader Kevin Hassett have endorsed aggressive tariff policies.
The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/41965420/elon-musk-vivek-ramaswamy-led-department-of-government-efficiency-opens-account-on-x-says-it-is-working-overtime">newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)</a>, coled by Musk and former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, could be a direct channel between Silicon Valley and the White House. North Carolina Rep. Dan Bishop told The Economist that the DOGE development marks a &#8220;fundamental change in the dynamic&#8221; of government operations.
Silicon Valley&#8217;s influence extends throughout the administration. Venture capital giant <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/11/42253427/elon-musks-doge-dream-team-from-marc-andreessen-to-ubers-travis-kalanick-silicon-valley-titans-join-forces-to-overhaul-federal-spending">Marc Andreessen has spent time at Mar-a-Lago</a> shaping tech policy and personnel decisions. His firm Andreessen Horowitz has placed several partners in key positions, including Scott Kupor as director of the Office of Personnel Management.
See Also: ‘Scrolling To UBI' — Deloitte's #1 fastest-growing software company allows users to earn money on their phones. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">You can invest today for just $0.26/share with a $1000 minimum.</a>
Stephen Miller, appointed deputy chief of staff, will spearhead the America First agenda from within the White House. Miller&#8217;s influence extends beyond immigration policy to broader economic strategy, including a planned two-phase approach beginning with immigration reform and later tackling tax legislation.
Budget director nominee Russ Vought, whom Miller praised as &#8220;the guy for the last four years that has been developing the plan to take down the deep state,&#8221; arrives with a blueprint for restructuring federal agencies. Trade policy remains a central battleground. While Peter Navarro returns as a presidential adviser advocating extensive tariffs, incoming trade representative Jamieson Greer has called for revoking China&#8217;s normal trading status. The administration&#8217;s push for economic decoupling from China creates tension with business interests, including Musk&#8217;s Tesla operations in the country.
Trending: With 100+ historic trademarks including some of the high grossing characters in history, like Cinderella, Snow White and Peter Pan, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elf-labs-1">this company is transforming the $2 trillion entertainment market with patented AR, VR, and AI tech. — For a short window, investors are able to claim $2/share ($980 min).</a>
Internal conflicts loom between the administration&#8217;s competing factions. Tech leaders advocate for expanded skilled immigration through H-1B visas, while Miller&#8217;s wing pushes for broad restrictions. Even on core Republican principles like tax cuts, divisions have emerged, with former strategist Steve Bannon calling for increased corporate taxation.
The appointment of Miller&#8217;s wife Katie to the efficiency department suggests the America First camp seeks to maintain oversight of the tech contingent&#8217;s reform agenda. Early political challenges, including recent congressional budget negotiations, have already tested the limits of this coalition&#8217;s influence.
As the administration prepares to take office, the alliance of Silicon Valley disrupters, economic nationalists and traditional conservatives must translate campaign promises into coherent policy.&nbsp;
Their success or failure could determine the future of American economic policy for years to come.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/suze-orman-retirement-bucket">&#8216;Which Bucket Do I Draw From First?&#8217; Suze Orman Explains To 67-Year-Old The Best Order For Tapping Into Her Retirement Accounts</a></li>
</ul>

Startups

Elon Musk's Role In Shaping Trumponomics: 'You've Got To Tariff The Rest Of The World'

Media company Warner Bros. Discovery (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>) could be in for a tough fourth quarter with concerns about the company's DC Studios reboot, the loss of NBA rights and the underperformance of "Joker: Folie a Deux" <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/10/41210999/joker-2-stumbles-at-box-office-no-laughing-matter-for-warner-bros-stock">at the box office.</a>
These are among the main reasons an analyst is lowering estimates and the price target on Warner Bros. Discovery ahead of fourth-quarter financial results.
The WBD Analyst: Goldman Sachs analyst Michael Ng maintained a Neutral rating on Warner Bros. Discovery and lowered the price target from $10.75 to $9.75.
Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42603589/disney-hits-2-billion-domestic-box-office-wins-top-honors-global-box-office-2025-to-grow-8-to-33b-analyst-says">Disney Hits $2 Billion Domestic Box Office, Earns Top Honors</a>
The Analyst Takeaways: The analyst expects Warner Bros. to report strong direct-to-consumer additions in the fourth quarter.
Outside of that segment, Ng sees struggles for the media company in other segments including linear networks, advertising and studio. &nbsp;
"WBD stock has outperformed the market since its last earnings report on 11/7/24 during which WBD reached a new agreement with NBA, had an earlier than-expected carriage renewal with Comcast, and announced a new corporate structure plan that splits linear networks business from streaming and studios," Ng said.
The analyst said investor debates will center on topics such as the linear networks outlook, direct-to-consumer momentum and the DC Studios reboot moving forward.
For the DC Studios segment, the analyst lowers the EBITDA target from $874 million to $800 million, citing the underperformance of "Joker: Folie a Duex" at the box office.
While there are concerns about the impact from the flop of "Joker: Folie a Deux" and the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/11/42075473/warner-bros-discovery-nba-deal-best-case-scenario-analyst-says-renewal-structure-could-boost-annual-profit">loss of NBA rights,</a> the analyst sees strength ahead for the DTC segment.
"Looking ahead, we estimate WBD can achieve $1.56 bn in DTC EBITDA in 2025E driven by international market launches and content timing."
The analyst highlights international expansion opportunities for the Max streaming platform, password-sharing initiatives, new content, price increases, bundling and ad-lite penetration as catalysts to help power streaming growth.
"Although we're encouraged by WBD's DTC momentum as well as investments in Linear Networks sports programming, the loss of domestic NBA media rights creates mid-term uncertainty in the outlook for Linear Networks profitability," Ng said.
WBD Price Action: Warner Bros. Discovery stock closed Wednesday up .62% to $9.79 versus a 52-week trading range of $6.64 to $12.70. Warner Bros. stock is down 5% over the last year.
Read Next: 
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</ul>
Photo: Courtesy Warner Bros. Discovery

Analyst Color

Entertainment

Price Target

Reiteration

Analyst Ratings

Warner Bros. Discovery Analyst Says DTC Strength Won't Offset 'Joker: Folie A Deux' Flop, NBA Rights Concerns

Moodys (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCO#NYSE">MCO</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 6.11% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 17.47%. Currently, Moodys has a market capitalization of $85.42 billion. 
Buying $100 In MCO: If an investor had bought $100 of MCO stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $500.48 today based on a price of $471.35 for MCO at the time of writing.
<h3>Moodys's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736982908_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.

If You Invested $100 In This Stock 10 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

The U.S. Department of Transportation and Department of Justice jointly filed a lawsuit on Wednesday against Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) for operating "chronically delayed flights" that caused <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/01/42791291/jetblue-fined-2-million-for-chronic-flight-delays-delta-united-rank-among-most-on-time-airlines">disruptions to passengers. </a>
The Details: DOT said its investigation found Southwest operated two chronically delayed flights, resulting in 180 flight disruptions for passengers between April and August 2022. DOT rules define a chronically delayed flight as one that is flown at least 10 times a month and arrives more than 30 minutes late more than 50% of the time. 
Read Next: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/legal/25/01/42979220/biden-announces-more-student-loan-forgiveness-bringing-debt-relief-to-nearly-5-million-borrowers">Biden Announces More Student Loan Forgiveness, Bringing Debt Relief To Nearly 5 Million Borrowers</a>
"As part of our commitment to supporting passenger rights and fairness in the market for airline travel, we are suing Southwest Airlines for disrupting passengers' travel with unlawful chronic flight delays," Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement.&nbsp;
"Airlines have a legal obligation to ensure that their flight schedules provide travelers with realistic departure and arrival times. Today&#8217;s action sends a message to all airlines that the Department is prepared to go to court in order to enforce passenger protections," Buttigieg added.&nbsp;
Southwest responded with a statement that it was "disappointed that DOT chose to file a lawsuit over two flights that occurred more than two years ago."
"Any claim that these two flights represent an unrealistic schedule is simply not credible when compared with our performance over the past 15 years," Southwest said.
The lawsuit against Southwest comes only 12 days after the DOT fined JetBlue Airways Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JBLU#NASDAQ">JBLU</a>) $2 million for chronic flight delays, which marked the <a href="https://www.transportation.gov/briefing-room/dot-penalizes-jetblue-chronic-flight-delays">first time</a> an airline had been fined for chronic flight delays. 
LUV Price Action: According to Benzinga Pro, Southwest Airlines shares are trading flat after-hours on Wednesday at $32.83.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/travel/25/01/42992007/trump-cabinet-confirmation-hearings-on-wednesday-departments-of-transportation-energy-state-attorney-general-cia-director">Trump Cabinet Confirmation Hearings On Wednesday: Departments Of Transportation, Energy, State; Attorney General, CIA Director</a>&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Travel

After-Hours Center

JBLU

Southwest Airlines Is Sued By Department Of Transportation Over 'Chronically Delayed' Flights

Boston Scientific (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BSX#NYSE">BSX</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 9.7% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 21.06%. Currently, Boston Scientific has a market capitalization of $142.86 billion. 
Buying $1000 In BSX: If an investor had bought $1000 of BSX stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $6,761.34 today based on a price of $97.01 for BSX at the time of writing.
<h3>Boston Scientific's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1736982008_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

Oil prices surged on Wednesday, with West Texas Intermediate light crude rising about 4% to above $80 per barrel for the first time <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/commodities">since mid-July 2024. </a>
This rally comes against a backdrop of intensifying concerns over global supply disruptions and the announcement of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/01/43017362/israel-hamas-agree-to-ceasefire-deal-including-hostage-release-biden-confirms">ceasefire in Gaza</a> after a devastating 15-month war.
Crude prices — as tracked by the United States Oil Fund (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/USO#NYSE">USO</a>) — haven&#8217;t seen a single-day surge of this magnitude since early October 2024.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">What's Driving Oil Higher?</h1>
Despite positive geopolitical developments in the Middle East with the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, traders remain focused on tightening supply fundamentals.
According to Reuters, the ceasefire agreement, brokered by U.S., Egyptian and Qatari diplomats, outlines an Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza and a prisoner exchange.
While this marks a significant step toward de-escalation in the Middle East, oil markets seem more concerned with a series of factors that could constrain global crude flows in the near term.
The Energy Information Administration reported Wednesday a sharper-than-expected decline in U.S. crude inventories for the week ending Jan. 10, further fueling the market&#8217;s bullish sentiment.
Data showed U.S. crude oil inventories fell by 1.961 million barrels last week, exceeding market expectations of a 1.6 million-barrel draw. 
This marked the eighth consecutive weekly decline, pushing U.S. crude commercial stockpiles — excluding the Strategic Petroleum Reserve — to their lowest levels since April 2022.
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">The Impact Of U.S. Sanctions On Russia, Iran</h1>
On Jan. 10, the Biden administration announced sweeping new sanctions targeting Russia. The measures include restrictions on two major Russian producers, Gazprom Neft and Surgutneftegaz, as well as over 160 tankers carrying oil from Russia, Iran, and Venezuela.
The sanctions also complicate ship insurance arrangements, further disrupting logistics for these nations. 
The International Energy Agency, in its latest Oil Market Report released Wednesday, highlighted the potential ramifications of these sanctions, stating:
"Benchmark crude oil prices rallied in early January as U.S. sanctions on Iran and Russia intensified and freezing temperatures swept across large parts of the Northern Hemisphere."
Speculation is mounting that the incoming U.S. administration under President-elect Donald Trump will adopt an even tougher stance on Iran, potentially exacerbating supply constraints. 
"While it is too early to fully quantify the potential impact from these new measures, some operators have reportedly already started to pull back from Iranian and Russian oil," the IEA said.
Freezing temperatures across major oil-consuming regions in the Northern Hemisphere have further tightened energy markets, boosting demand for heating fuels. This seasonal surge in consumption, combined with shrinking inventories and sanctions-related disruptions, leaves the oil market vulnerable to additional supply shocks.
"If decreases in supply from weather impacts, sanctions, or other developments become substantial, oil stocks can quickly be drawn to meet operational requirements in the near term," the IEA stated.
Earlier this week, Goldman Sachs commodity analyst Daan Struyven warned that in a scenario of combined disruptions in Russian and Iranian oil flows, crude prices could rally up <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/42965857/oil-could-hit-90-goldman-sachs-says-trump-may-not-ease-sanctions-on-russia">to $90 a barrel.</a> 
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Macro Economic Events

Specialty ETFs

Commodities

Global

Economics

Oil Prices Break $80, Reach 6-Month Highs Despite Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal: Why Is Crude Rallying?

Short-seller Hindenburg Research on Wednesday announced plans to disband the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/hindenburg-research">New York-based investment firm</a>.
&#8220;The plan has been to wind up after we finished the pipeline of ideas we were working on. And as of the last Ponzi cases we just completed and are sharing with regulators, that day is today,&#8221; Hindenburg founder Nate Anderson said in a blog <a href="https://hindenburgresearch.com/gratitude/">post</a>.
What To Know: Anderson founded Hindenburg Research in 2017. The first half of the letter published on Hindenburg&#8217;s site is a reflection on the success of the company and how it came to be. 
&#8220;Nearly 100 individuals have been charged civilly or criminally by regulators at least in part through our work, including billionaires and oligarchs. We shook some empires that we felt needed shaking,&#8221; Anderson said.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43013717/fed-beige-book-flags-moderate-growth-yet-tariffs-immigration-policies-spark-concerns">Fed Beige Book Flags Moderate Growth, Yet Tariffs, Immigration Policies Spark Concerns</a>
About halfway through, Anderson addresses the disbandment, but he said there is no particular reason why. Anderson noted that he felt like he had some things to prove to himself early on, but that he has &#8220;finally found some comfort&#8221; with himself. Anderson also suggested his professional life has taken a toll on his well-being, adding that the &#8220;intensity and focus&#8221; required for the role has come at a cost.
&#8220;Someone once told me that at a certain point a successful career becomes a selfish act,&#8221; he said. 
Anderson said his immediate focus is on finding opportunities for members of the Hindenburg team. Some will be starting their own research firms, while others are seeking different opportunities. 
Anderson also noted he plans to spend the next six months or so working on putting together materials to open-source Hindenburg&#8217;s research model and share how the firm conducted its research so that others may be inspired to do the same.
Hindenburg was the short-selling firm behind some major sell-offs in recent years including <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/short-sellers/23/03/31474945/short-seller-that-sunk-second-richest-man-has-new-target-and-jack-dorsey-is-in-the-crosshairs">Adani Group</a> and Super Micro Computer Inc (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>). Hindenburg has also targeted big names like Icahn Enterprises L.P. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IEP#NASDAQ">IEP</a>), Roblox Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RBLX#NYSE">RBLX</a>) and most recently, Carvana Co (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CVNA#NYSE">CVNA</a>).
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/01/42769626/hindenburg-shorts-carvana-stock-claims-used-car-retailers-turnaround-is-a-mirage">Hindenburg Shorts Carvana Stock, Claims Used Car Retailer&#8217;s Turnaround Is A &#8216;Mirage&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Photo: Courtesy of Hindenburg Research.

Management

RBLX

SMCI

Hindenburg Research Is Closing Up Shop: 'We Shook Some Empires That We Felt Needed Shaking'

2024 Macro Commentary: Next Economy Forces Reshaping Markets

The Potential Power Of AI Agents

Investing in AI-powered ETFs might offer solid returns by leveraging AI's transformative growth, sustainable models, and adoption across thriving industries. Therefore, investors should consider robust AI-powered ETFs, such as Robo Global Artificial Intelligence (THNQ), First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (ROBT), and Global X Robotics & Artificial Intelligence (BOTZ). Read more... Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing multiple industries, creating exciting opportunities for investors through ETFs focused on AI-driven businesses. These ETFs capitalize on AI's transformative potential, ensuring consistent and innovation-led growth. By targeting energy-efficient AI models, they also align with sustainable investment trends.
Given this dynamic backdrop, investors might consider robust AI-powered ETFs, such as Robo Global Artificial Intelligence ETF (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/THNQ/">THNQ</a>), First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ROBT/">ROBT</a>), and the Global X Robotics &amp; Artificial Intelligence ETF (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/BOTZ/">BOTZ</a>) for solid returns in 2025.
This year, the AI market is projected to reach <a href="https://www.statista.com/outlook/tmo/artificial-intelligence/worldwide#:~:text=The%20market%20size%20in%20the,US%24826.70bn%20by%202030.">$243.70 billion</a>, with a remarkable CAGR of 27.7%, driving its value to $826.70 billion by 2030. This growth reflects the increasing adoption of AI across industries. Sectors like healthcare, quantum computing, and ethical AI are poised to thrive, while AI's widespread integration supports diversified ETF portfolios with strong long-term growth potential.
On top of it, AI is pivotal in today's digital business landscape, streamlining complex tasks across IT, finance, supply chains, and sales to enhance efficiency and productivity. With global IT spending projected to grow by <a href="https://www.spglobal.com/ratings/en/research/articles/250108-solid-it-demand-bodes-well-for-technology-credits-in-2025-13375106">9% in 2025</a>, up from the low 8% range in 2024, companies are increasingly embracing AI for high-value functions, solidifying its role as a transformative force and a promising sector to watch.
Given this favorable backdrop, let's evaluate the three <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/technology-equities-etfs/">Technology Equities ETFs</a> picks, starting with number three.
ETF #3: Robo Global Artificial Intelligence ETF (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/THNQ/">THNQ</a>)
THNQ is an exchange-traded fund launched and managed by Exchange Traded Concepts, LLC. It invests in public equity markets globally. The fund targets stocks of companies in information technology, software and services, systems software, software research, and artificial intelligence sectors. It invests in both growth and value stocks across diverse market capitalizations. The fund seeks to track the performance of the ROBO Global Artificial Intelligence Index using a full replication technique.
With $155 million in AUM, the fund has a total of 57 holdings. THNQ's top holding is Ambarella, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/AMBA/">AMBA</a>) with a 2.51% weighting, followed by NVIDIA Corporation (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/NVDA/">NVDA</a>) with a 2.39% weighting, and Alphabet Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/GOOGL/">GOOGL</a>) with 2.32%.
THNQ has an expense ratio of 0.68%, higher than the category average of 0.58%. It currently has a <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/n/nav.asp">NAV</a> of $49.98. Its fund inflows came in at $3.62 million over the past six months.
THNQ has gained 15% over the past nine months and 23.8% over the past year to close the last trading session at $50.03.
THNQ's strong outlook is reflected in its <a href="https://stocknews.com/powr-ratings/">POWR Ratings</a>. The ETF has an overall rating of A, translating to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system. The POWR Ratings are calculated by considering 118 different factors, each weighted to an optimal degree.
It has an A grade for Buy &amp; Hold and Trade. It is ranked #36 out of 119 ETFs in the <a href="https://stocknews.com/category/technology-equities-etfs/">Technology Equities ETFs</a> group. To access all the POWR Ratings for THNQ, <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/THNQ/">click here</a>.
ETF #2: First Trust Nasdaq Artificial Intelligence and Robotics ETF (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ROBT/">ROBT</a>)
ROBT is an exchange-traded fund launched and managed by First Trust Advisors L.P. The fund invests in public equity markets, targeting stocks of companies in information technology, software and services, systems software, automation products and services, software research, and artificial intelligence sectors. It invests in both growth and value stocks across diverse market capitalizations. The fund seeks to track the performance of the Nasdaq CTA Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Index using a full replication technique.
With $459.80 million in assets under management (AUM), ROBT's top holding is Mobileye Global, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/MBLY/">MBLY</a>) with a 2.16% weighting, followed by Meta Platforms, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/META/">META</a>), with a 2.15% weighting, and Palantir Technologies Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/PLTR/">PLTR</a>), with 2.08%. It has a total of 102 holdings.
It has an expense ratio of 0.65%, higher than the category average of 0.58%. It currently has a NAV of $45.45. ROBT's fund inflows came in at $4.58 million over the past year.
The fund's annual dividend of $0.31 yields 0.68% on the current share price. Its four-year average yield is 0.22%. Moreover, its dividend payouts have increased at a CAGR of 111.5% over the past three years.
ROBT has gained 4% over the past three months and 4.6% over the past six months to close the last trading session at $45.23.
ROBT's POWR Ratings reflect this promising outlook. The ETF's overall A rating equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
ROBT has an A grade for Buy &amp; Hold and Trade. It is ranked #25 in the same group. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ROBT/">Click here</a> to access all of ROBT's POWR Ratings.
ETF #1: Global X Robotics &amp; Artificial Intelligence ETF (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/BOTZ/">BOTZ</a>)
BOTZ is an exchange-traded fund launched and managed by Global X Management Company LLC. The fund invests in public equity markets in developed regions globally. It targets stocks of companies involved in the development of robotics and artificial intelligence, including those working on industrial robots, automated inventory management, unmanned vehicles, voice/image/text recognition, and medical robots or robotic instruments. The fund aims to track the performance of the Indxx Global Robotics &amp; Artificial Intelligence Thematic Index using a full replication technique.
With $2.69 billion in assets under management (AUM), BOTZ's top holding is NVIDIA Corporation (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/NVDA/">NVDA</a>) with a 14.15% weighting, followed by Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/ISRG/">ISRG</a>), with a 10.54% weighting, and Dynatrace, Inc. (<a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/DT/">DT</a>), with 4.55%. BOTZ has a total of 47 holdings.
BOTZ has an expense ratio of 0.68%, higher than the category average of 0.65%. It currently has a NAV of $32.67. Its fund inflows came in at $40.63 million over the past month.
The ETF pays an annual dividend of $0.05, which yields 0.15% on the current price. It has a four-year average dividend yield of 0.19%.
BOTZ has gained 16.9% over the past year and 5.3% over the past nine months to close the last trading session at $32.39.
BOTZ's POWR Ratings reflect its promising prospects. The ETF's overall A rating equates to a Strong Buy in our proprietary rating system.
BOTZ has an A grade for Buy &amp; Hold and Trade. In the Technology Equities ETFs group, it is ranked #13. <a href="https://stocknews.com/stock/BOTZ/">Click here</a> to access all of BOTZ's POWR Ratings.
What To Do Next?
Get your hands on this special report with 3 low priced companies with tremendous upside potential even in today's volatile markets:
<a href="https://report.stocknews.com/free-report/3stocks/?formplacement=artbotad_3s">3 Stocks to DOUBLE This Year &gt;</a>

<hr />
BOTZ shares were trading at $32.39 per share on Thursday afternoon, down $0.17 (-0.52%). Year-to-date, BOTZ has gained 1.38%, versus a 0.58% rise in the benchmark S&amp;P 500 index during the same period.
<hr><div style="clear:both;"></div> <h2>About the Author: Abhishek Bhuyan</h2> <img src='https:/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/ABhuyan.jpg' style="float:left; padding:5px;width:125px;">Abhishek embarked on his professional journey as a financial journalist due to his keen interest in discerning the fundamental factors that influence the future performance of financial instruments.<a href="https://stocknews.com/authors/?author=abhishek-bhuyan">More...</a>The post <a href=https://stocknews.com/news/botz-robt-thnq-3-ai-powered-etfs-to-invest-in-for-solid-2025-returns/>3 AI-Powered ETFs to Invest in for Solid 2025 Returns</a> appeared first on <a href=https://stocknews.com/>StockNews.com</a>

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