에 대한 최신 뉴스 S&P Global (NYSE:SPGI) 주식

S&P GLOBAL INC

S&P Global

S&P Global provides data and benchmarks to capital and commodity market participants. Its ratings business is the largest credit rating agency in the world and S&P's largest segment by profitability. S&P's largest segment by revenue is market intelligence, which provides desktop, data and advisory solutions, enterprise solutions, and credit/risk solutions mostly in the financial-services industry. S&P's other segments include commodity insights (Platts and other data), mobility (Carfax), and indexes.

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골드만삭스 리서치가 새로운 해를 맞아 대담한 주식 선택과 2025년 시장을 형성할 다섯 가지 투자 테마를 조명했다. 무슨 일이 있었나: 목요일에 공유된 노트에서, 스티븐 크론(Steven Kron)이 이끄는 애널리스트 팀은 &#34;컨빅션 리스트(Conviction List)&#34; - 주목할 만한 투자 아이디어로 구성된 포트폴리오를 재조정했다.

골드만삭스, &#39;컨빅션 리스트&#39;에 3개의 주식 추가 및 2025년 주목해야 할 5가지 시장 동향

April,12,,2023,,Brazil.,In,This,Photo,Illustration,,The,Moody's

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최근 미국 증권거래위원회(SEC)는 무디스(NYSE:MCO)의 무디스 레이팅스(Moody&#39;s Ratings), S&amp;P 글로벌(NYSE:SPGI)의 S&amp;P 글로벌 레이팅스, 피치 레이팅스(Fitch Ratings, Inc.)를 포함한 6개의 주요 신용평가사들에 대해 전자 통신의 유지 및 보존에 중대한 결함이 있었다며 막대한 벌금을 부과했다. 이들 기관들은 총 4,900만 달러를 초과하는 민사 벌금을 납부하기로 합의했다.

美 SEC는 무디스, S&amp;P 글로벌, 피치 포함 6개사들에 기록 유지 실패로 $4,900만 벌금 부가

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상업용 부동산 업계는 원격 근무와 인플레이션 상승의 영향으로 계속해서 어려움을 겪고 있다. 이자율이 상승하고 다양한 산업 분야에서 사무실 공간을 축소하려는 광범위한 추세로 인해 이 분야는 전례 없는 규모의 빈 사무실 공간에 직면하게 되었다.

기술 부문 인력 감원, 재택근무로 사무실 공실율 19.6% 상승, 1979년 이후 최고 수준

S&P Global Inc

You've heard the saying: all press is good press. It's a favorite line in Hollywood, politics—and apparently, Silicon Valley boardrooms. Fortunately, Elon Musk seems to agree. The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/25/01/43101102/elon-musk-the-richest-man-in-the-world-is-estimated-to-earn-over-23-million-every-single-hour-of-the-day-heres-how-hes-spending-it">world's richest man</a> has never been one to sweat the headlines, even when they've taken aim at Tesla (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>).
And lately, they've been taking aim a lot.
But if Musk is rattled, he's not showing it. In fact, he's been through worse—and came out smiling.
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In a <a href="https://youtu.be/u5w_VkAx6tc?si=Y-FiPNEMfw6t5DE8">2022 interview with "Tesla Owners Silicon Valley"</a>, Musk reflected on years of relentless bad press. He recalled that from around 2017 through 2019, the media ran a "non-stop hate stream." "It was like, hate. Like Tesla's a fraud. Tesla's a failure. Fraudulent failure." Then he added, "I remember… for like three years straight the headlines would just be trashing Tesla all over and over and over again. And our sales went up."
"So I guess keep trashing us," he added. "At the end of the day, people were like, ‘Oh yeah, I just kept reading about Tesla. I can't remember what the article was about, but I know I <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/03/44414187/elon-musks-tesla-recalls-over-46000-cybertrucks-due-to-safety-concerns">read about Tesla 17 times</a>.' He acknowledged there's "some truth" to the old saying that "all press is good press."
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Tesla has faced a rough 2025. On March 10, its shares plunged 15%, marking its worst single-day performance since September 2020. This sharp fall wiped out over $800 billion in market capitalization from Tesla's December peak.&nbsp;
Sales have slumped and Musk's political controversies—have sparked protests and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/03/44550250/elon-musks-father-says-tesla-vandalism-and-protests-are-just-free-publicity-claims-all-the-stocks-have-come-down-not-just-tesla">even vandalism at Tesla dealerships</a>. To top it off, rumors swirled that Tesla's board wanted Musk replaced, although Musk and the board quickly <a href="https://x.com/Tesla/status/1917812113315074055">shut those down as "absolutely false."</a>
Musk, regardless, is determined not to fail. Back <a href="https://youtu.be/23GzpbNUyI4?si=URDV-gyQH-0gtR3w">in a 2012 "60 Minutes" interview</a>, when asked about overcoming failures, he famously said: "I don't ever give up. I'd have to be dead or completely incapacitated."
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elon-musk-told-the-u-n-if-they-could-show-a-plan-for-ending-world-hunger-hed-donate-6-billion-i-will-sell-tesla-stock-right-now-and-do-it">Elon Musk Told The U.N. If They Could Show A Plan For Ending World Hunger He'd Donate $6 Billion – ‘I Will Sell Tesla Stock Right Now And Do It'</a>
Today, despite sagging numbers, Tesla's stock did climb from the recent lows. Investors are betting on a turnaround—and Musk has pledged to focus more on Tesla moving forward.
It's a familiar story in Musk's entrepreneurial playbook: critics pile on, markets wobble, and Musk doubles down. Whether it's building rockets, boring tunnels, or selling electric cars, he's thrived on defying expectations. Even if those expectations come wrapped in negative headlines.
As Musk himself put it, bad press might just keep the brand in the spotlight. Keep the stories coming. Musk's not giving up—and he's betting Tesla's customers won't either.
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<li>Donald Trump just announced a $500 billion AI infrastructure deal — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/seize-a-share-while-you-still-can-in-the-2-trillion-entertainment-market-with-elf-labs-at-just-2-25-share">here's how you can invest in the entertainment market's next big disruptor at $2.25 per share</a>.</li>
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Image: Shutterstock

Personal Finance

TSLA

Elon Musk Says For 3 Years Straight, Headlines Would 'Trash' Tesla And Sales Went Up But All Press Is Good Press — 'So I Guess Keep Trashing Us'

It must be one of the great ironies of wealth: the richer you are, the more free stuff you get. Celebrities get gifting suites. Athletes get free gear. And billionaires? Apparently, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/45056962/bill-gates-says-hes-happier-as-a-billionaire-than-if-he-were-middle-class-you-dont-need-a-billionbut-freedom-from-worry-is-a-blessing">they get free Big Macs</a>.
That's right—Bill Gates, <a href="https://www.forbes.com/real-time-billionaires/">worth well over $100 billion</a>, has a McDonald's "gold card" granting him free meals for life anywhere in the world. And while it may sound like a recent social media stunt, the story behind Gates' golden ticket actually stretches back almost two decades—and involves his good friend, Warren Buffett.
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We likely first heard about these elusive McDonald's cards in 2007, when Buffett casually revealed his own <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2007/10/29/whats-in-warren-buffetts-wallet.html">during a CNBC interview</a>. Pulling out his wallet, the Berkshire Hathaway CEO flashed his McGold card and joked, "Bill Gates has one. His is good throughout the world, I guess. Mine is only good in Omaha, but I never leave Omaha so mine is just as good as his!"
Buffett, a well-documented McDonald's enthusiast, is known for ordering sausage McMuffins for&nbsp; breakfast and "splurging" on bacon egg and cheese biscuits <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/10/41230382/warren-buffett-lets-the-stock-market-decide-his-mcdonalds-breakfast-order-when-its-up-he-spends-">when the market is up</a>. He didn't elaborate much more about the elusive card at the time. But the idea of billionaires eating for free sparked plenty of curiosity.
For years, Gates never publicly confirmed his McGold status. That changed in January, when he <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTjDVkhT1/">appeared in a TikTok clip</a> with celebrity chef and social media star Nick DiGiovanni. In the lighthearted video, DiGiovanni asked, "Bill, is it true you have a McDonald's gold card?"
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Gates didn't just say yes—he whipped it out.
The card read:
"Be our guest Bill Gates — Entitled to a complimentary meal at any McDonald's"
Signed by Michael R. Quinlan, McDonald's Chairman and CEO during <a href="https://www.historyoasis.com/post/mcdonalds-ceo-history">the late 1980s and 1990s</a>. That little detail suggests Gates' card was issued somewhere between 1987 and 1999.
As for how he got it? Gates explained: "They actually sent it to me. My friend Warren Buffett got one before I did. But then a few months later, they sent one to me. But I tend not to use it since I can afford to buy the food."
Still, it's a lifelong perk, he added—and confirmed he's "a quarter pounder with cheese guy." When asked how many other golden cards might be floating around, Gates smiled and said, "Hopefully for them, not too many."
DiGiovanni tried his luck asking to borrow it, but Gates—clearly in a playful mood—declined, "Rules are pretty clear." Instead, he handed the chef a $50 gift certificate.
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As for the McGold cards themselves, their exact number remains a mystery. The few confirmed holders include Gates, Buffett, and actor Rob Lowe. Most cbards are hyper-local, valid only in specific cities or franchises. Gates' global pass makes his especially rare. McDonald's has occasionally offered McGold Cards through limited-time contests—most recently in December 2022, when a sweepstakes awarded twelve cards allowing winners two free meals a week for fifty years.
But for billionaires like Gates and Buffett, it seems the real value lies more in the novelty than the free fries. Gates even once told a <a href="https://news.mit.edu/2010/gates-visit-0422">2010 MIT audience</a>, "I still haven't found any burgers at any price that are better than McDonald's." He added that after a person reaches a certain net worth, adding more wealth "doesn't mean much. Success becomes all about how you're going to give it back."
So while Gates could dine at the fanciest restaurants on Earth, sometimes nothing beats the taste—or the nostalgia—of a simple cheeseburger. Apparently, even billionaires think the Golden Arches are golden for a reason.
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Image: Shutterstock

Billionaire Bill Gates Has A 'McGold Card' That Gives Him Free McDonald's Meals For Life, Anywhere In The World — But Says 'I Tend Not To Use It'

India and Pakistan agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on Saturday after days of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/05/45335338/trump-makes-india-pakistan-ceasefire-declaration-in-casual-manner-thank-you-for-your-attention-to-this-matter" rel="noreferrer noopener">heavy cross-border fighting</a>. But just hours later, explosions in Srinagar and Jammu raised doubts about how long the truce would hold, Reuters reports.
India&#8217;s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said in a briefing: &#8220;For the last few hours there have been repeated violations of the understanding arrived at earlier this evening between the director generals of military operations of India and Pakistan&#8221;
&#8220;This is a breach of an understanding arrived at earlier today,&#8221; Misri added.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/05/45282156/us-and-china-accelerate-arms-race-with-billions-in-military-sales-to-nuclear-neighbors-as-india-turns-to-washington-and-pakistan-deepens-ties-with-beijing-amid-escalating-border-conflict" rel="noreferrer noopener">US And China Accelerate Arms Race With Billions In Military Sales To Nuclear Neighbors, As India Turns To Washington And Pakistan Deepens Ties With Beijing Amid Escalating Border Conflict</a>
However, Pakistan&#8217;s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar told Geo News that no ceasefire violations have occurred, despite rising tensions along the LoC, per a report <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/5/10/india-and-pakistan-agree-to-an-immediate-ceasefire-after-days-of-escalation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">from</a> Al Jazeera.
&nbsp;Early on Saturday morning, President Trump made a casual announcement about the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan.
"After&nbsp;a long night of talks&nbsp;mediated by the United States,&nbsp;I am pleased to announce&nbsp;that India and Pakistan have&nbsp;agreed to a FULL AND&nbsp;IMMEDIATE CEASEFIRE. Congratulations&nbsp;to both Countries on using&nbsp;Common Sense and Great Intelligence.&nbsp;Thank you for your attention&nbsp;to this matter!," Trump&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114483405683675564" rel="noreferrer noopener">posted&nbsp;</a>on Truth Social.
The ceasefire, brokered with assistance from the United States, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey, aimed to halt the most severe military confrontation between the two nations in nearly three decades.
The conflict was initially triggered by India&#8217;s airstrikes on what it described as &#8220;terrorist infrastructure&#8221; in Pakistani-administered Kashmir, following a deadly attack that killed 26 Hindu tourists in Indian Kashmir. Despite the agreement, Indian officials accused Pakistan of violating the ceasefire through cross-border shelling and drone intrusions, leading to further escalations.
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Equities

India-Pakistan Ceasefire Teeters As Blasts Shatter Calm In Kashmir

Mark Zuckerberg, the founder of&nbsp;Meta, is in the limelight for his extravagant collection of wristwatches. The billionaire&#8217;s assortment ranges from an affordable Casio to a staggering $900,000 Greubel Forsey piece.
What Happened: Zuckerberg&#8217;s collection boasts of a variety of luxury watches. One of the highlights is&nbsp;a Grand Complications In-Line Perpetual&nbsp;Calendar watch from Patek Philippe, revealed in an Instagram post in September 2024. This timepiece, featuring&nbsp;a platinum case and an&nbsp;alligator-leather band, is priced at $141,400.
During a podcast event in September 2024, Zuckerberg was spotted wearing&nbsp;a DB25 Starry Varius from&nbsp;the Swiss watch brand De&nbsp;Bethune. The rose-gold model, one of only 20 produced annually, carries a hefty price tag of over $80,000.
As per the report <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/mark-zuckerberg-watch-collection-2025-5#his-watch-collection-isnt-entirely-luxurious-7">by </a>Insider, at the 2024 Meta Connect conference, Zuckerberg sported&nbsp;a watch from the Swiss&nbsp;brand F.P. Journe&#8217;s Souveraine collection.&nbsp;Made entirely of aluminum, this watch was projected to fetch between $30,000 and $54,000 at auction.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41196394/from-tech-to-tees-metas-zuckerberg-may-launching-clothing-line-on-instagram">From Tech To Tees: Meta&#8217;s Zuckerberg May Launching Clothing Line On Instagram</a>
In a video from January 2025, Zuckerberg was seen donning&nbsp;a Greubel Forsey watch that&nbsp;retails for over $900,000. This white gold watch, comprising 281 pieces, is hand-assembled with only two or three units crafted each year.
His collection also includes&nbsp;a yellow-gold Rolex Daytona Le&nbsp;Mans, with&nbsp;a resale value of up&nbsp;to $300,000, and a GA2100WS-7A from Casio&#8217;s G-Shock line, which retails for $120, making it the most affordable watch he has publicly worn.
Why It Matters: Mark Zuckerberg&#8217;s watch collection is a testament to his diverse taste and appreciation for craftsmanship. The range of his collection, from a modest Casio to a luxurious Patek Philippe, reflects his eclectic style. 
His choice of timepieces, often seen during public appearances, has sparked interest and curiosity among watch enthusiasts and followers alike.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock/conzorb

Social Media

Mark Zuckerberg's Exquisite Watch Collection: From Affordable Casio To Luxurious $141,400 Patek Philippe, He Has It All

When it comes to personal finance, Suze Orman is clear: You are the best person to take care of your financial future. In a recent episode of her "<a href="https://omny.fm/shows/suze-ormans-women-and-money/suze-school-the-actions-you-need-to-take-now-with-your-money">Women &amp; Money</a>" podcast, she reminded listeners that "the government can't save you," and encouraged everyone to take responsibility for three key areas: debt, income and expenses, and investments.
Here's how Orman breaks it down — and what actions she suggests taking now.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Take Control of Your Debt</h2>
Orman separates debt into two categories: good and bad. Good debt might include a mortgage or a car loan — especially if you need the car to get to work. Bad debt, on the other hand, usually comes in the form of high-interest credit card balances used for nonessential spending.
If you're dealing with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43888952/americans-owe-a-record-1-21-trillion-in-credit-card-debt-expert-warns-theres-no-end-in-sight">credit card debt</a>, Orman suggests organizing your cards by interest rate, from highest to lowest. Write down the minimum payment due on each one, then total those minimums and add 20% to the total. You'll make the minimum payments on all cards, but apply the extra 20% toward the card with the highest interest rate. Once that one's paid off, you roll the entire amount you were paying into the next highest card — and so on — until the debt is gone.
She also encourages maintaining your credit limit, warning that closing cards can lower your FICO score.
Trending: Can you guess how many retire with a $5,000,000 nest egg? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/5mil-nest-egg-adv">The percentage may shock you</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Review Income and Expenses</h2>
The next area <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44715539/suze-orman-says-when-sentiment-is-this-fearful-its-not-the-time-to-sell-but-if-youll-need-the-mo">Orman</a> says to evaluate is your cash flow — what's coming in versus what's going out.
Orman suggests a simple exercise: Look at what you spent over the past year and divide that number by 12 to get your average monthly expenses. Then compare that number to your after-tax, after-retirement-contribution income. If your income doesn't cover your expenses — or just barely does — you have some work to do.
"You either have to earn more, or you have to spend less," she says. "Or you can do both."
Orman emphasizes that your relationship with money isn't just about reaching a specific dollar amount. It's about how you value money — and by extension, yourself. Being proactive about your income and expenses now can help you avoid painful surprises down the line.
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">3. Keep Investing for the Long Term</h2>
Finally, Orman says you should continue investing steadily — especially in retirement accounts like Roth IRAs, 401(k)s, or 403(b)s — if you don't need the money for at least five to 10 years.
Her advice is to stick with <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44550600/redditor-asks-if-dollar-cost-averaging-into-individual-stocks-makes-sense-i-was-thinking-of-adding-another-200-bi-weekly-into-some-individual-us-stocks">dollar-cost averaging</a>: investing the same amount regularly, regardless of market conditions. This strategy helps you buy more shares when prices are low and fewer when prices are high, smoothing out the impact of market volatility over time.
And if you're 50 or older, don't forget: You can contribute up to $8,000 to an IRA in 2025, thanks to catch-up contributions.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Bottom Line</h2>
Orman's message is simple but powerful: The economy, markets, and government programs may be uncertain, but your personal finances don't have to be. Focus on eliminating bad debt, understanding your spending, and investing for your future.
After all, as she puts it, "Nobody is going to care about your money more than you do."
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Image: Shutterstock

Debt, Income, And Investments: Suze Orman Says We Should All Be Focused On These Because 'The Government Can't Save You'

Elon Musk is <a href="https://www.forbes.com/real-time-billionaires/">worth over $380 billion</a>, yet when his 77-year-old mother, Maye Musk, comes to visit, she doesn't get a penthouse suite or even a plush guest room. Nope — she sleeps on blankets, couches, or a mattress in his garage. And she's perfectly fine with it.
"You can't have a fancy house near a rocket site," Maye explained in a 2022 <a href="https://www.thetimes.com/culture/books/article/maye-musk-i-called-elon-genius-boy-he-remembered-everything-z0l2ds0sh">interview with The Times of London</a>, referencing SpaceX's Starbase launch facility in Texas. "I have to sleep in the garage."
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She's not exaggerating. In fact, Maye's made light of the situation multiple times. In an <a href="https://x.com/mayemusk/status/1645682178246823937">X post the same year</a>, she shared:
"Many memories of sleeping on mattresses or blankets on the floor, on couches, or a bed in the garage. This happens to @kimbal @ToscaMusk and me. We adapt. It's still better than sleeping on the ground in the Kalahari Desert with lions or hyenas nearby, which I did as a child."
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Not wrong at all! Many memories of sleeping on mattresses or blankets on the floor, on couches, or a bed in the garage. This happens to <a href="https://twitter.com/kimbal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@kimbal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ToscaMusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ToscaMusk</a> and me. We adapt. It's still better than sleeping on the ground in the Kalahari Desert with lions or hyenas nearby, which I… <a href="https://t.co/qJaSzrFyHT">https://t.co/qJaSzrFyHT</a>
&mdash; Maye Musk (@mayemusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/mayemusk/status/1645682178246823937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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That "we adapt" motto seems to be a Musk family tradition.
It's not just Maye. Elon himself has slept in less-than-glamorous spots. Speaking at the <a href="https://youtu.be/E-squeb0YJA?si=lp49VvGXFgOClccN">2022 Baron Investment Conference</a>, he recalled sleeping on a factory floor in California and Nevada for three years. "It was damn uncomfortable," he admitted.
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
This all fits Musk's minimalist streak. In 2020, he vowed to sell "almost all physical possessions" and declared, <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1256239554148724737">"Will own no house,"</a> citing freedom as the goal. He followed through, offloading multiple California mansions.
But despite publicly swearing off homeownership, Musk reportedly upgraded to a $6 million, six-bedroom mansion in West Lake Hills, Texas, in 2022 — the same year his mom said she was sleeping in the garage, according to <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/05/technology/elon-musk-texas-neighbors.html">The New York Times</a>. A 16-foot chain-link fence around the property quickly tipped off neighbors that this wasn't just any new arrival.
So, yes, while Musk officially claimed to own only a $50,000, two-bedroom tiny home near the launch site, reports suggest he may have had some real estate back in rotation. Whether that house was close enough to the rocket site for Maye's comfort is up for debate.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elon-musk-told-the-u-n-if-they-could-show-a-plan-for-ending-world-hunger-hed-donate-6-billion-i-will-sell-tesla-stock-right-now-and-do-it">Elon Musk Told The U.N. If They Could Show A Plan For Ending World Hunger He'd Donate $6 Billion – ‘I Will Sell Tesla Stock Right Now And Do It'</a>
When skeptics on X asked Musk in 2023 about persistent rumors of his father's supposed connection to an emerald mine, Elon shot back, "I'd just like to see a picture of this mine. Like, where is it exactly!?" <a href="https://x.com/mayemusk/status/1655176037607645184">Maye chimed in shortly after</a>, writing, "Me too! And why did we sleep in one-bedroom apartments and on the floor?" effectively shutting down the long-running myth.
Whether it's a garage floor, a couch, or the occasional $6 million mansion, the Musk family seems <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/25/01/43101102/elon-musk-the-richest-man-in-the-world-is-estimated-to-earn-over-23-million-every-single-hour-of-the-day-heres-how-hes-spending-it">more focused on adaptability than luxury</a>.
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Image: Shutterstock

Elon Musk's 77-Year-Old Mom Says 'I Have To Sleep In The Garage' And On Floor Blankets When Visiting Her Son — Richest Man In The World: 'We Adapt'

Editor's note: This article was originally published on Forbes in January 2025. It has been updated in May 2025 to reflect new developments, including Brittney Griner's canceled appearance at the Women Grow summit.
"I believed in the plant, even when everyone told me I was throwing my life away," says <a href="https://elplanteo.com/chanda-macias-reina-zulu-cannabis/">Dr. Chanda Macias</a>.
Macias stands out in the cannabis space as a scientist, entrepreneur and trailblazer. As the CEO of National Holistic Healing Center in Washington, D.C., she became the first Black woman to open and operate a medical cannabis dispensary on the East Coast. But her journey wasn't easy.
Raised in a working-class family, Macias became a single mother as a teenager when her son's father was incarcerated during the height of the war on drugs. "No one ever thought that I was going to go to college," she recalls. Yet, she enrolled at Howard University, where she discovered a passion for science. "Yes, I was working two jobs and raising a kid, but I fell in love with science," she says.
As Macias pursued cancer-related research, she began noticing the plant&#8217;s potential. "It was common knowledge that if you had cancer, you had to find someone to get marijuana," she explains. Despite its illegality, cannabis was already a quiet staple of symptom relief in her community.
She delved into emerging research, especially studies out of Israel, and approached faculty about integrating cannabis into her work. "He said, ‘It's illegal.' And I'm like, ‘We're scientists,'" she remembers.
Also read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/05/45263739/they-turned-fruit-bouquets-into-a-500m-a-year-businessnow-theyre-selling-thc-heres-why">They Turned Fruit Bouquets Into A $500 Million-A-Year Business—Now They&#8217;re Selling THC. Here&#8217;s Why</a>
Although direct cannabis research was off-limits, Macias pivoted to prostate cancer studies. She later joined Colgate-Palmolive as a scientist, but the desire to return to cannabis never left. When D.C. announced its medical dispensary licensing process in 2012, she immediately said, "I'm doing this."
She drained her savings, stopped paying her mortgage and moved into a small apartment with her family to afford a lease. "I lost my house, but I believed in myself and the plant," she says. Her initial landlord backed out, and it took years of advocacy to secure a location. During that time, Macias traveled to Africa to lead infectious disease research.
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<li>Don't miss Dr. Chanda Macias live at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis-conference">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a> in Chicago, June 9–10! From losing her home to building a cannabis empire, Dr. Macias brings unmatched insight and inspiration to the stage. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/cannabis-conference">Grab your tickets now</a>—this is a conversation you need to hear.</li>
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In 2015, she returned to the U.S. after regulators warned her license would be revoked unless she opened within 60 days. With help from D.C. cultivator Corey Barnett, who sold her a single ounce of cannabis on credit, she opened National Holistic Healing Center with 13 patients and furniture from her apartment.
Her work expanded beyond D.C. In Louisiana, Southern University tapped Macias to rescue its struggling medical cannabis program. She raised over $2 million, launched the operation, and helped the HBCU become the first in the U.S. to grow and manufacture legal medical cannabis.
In 2020, she was crowned Queen Zulu during Mardi Gras, joining the ranks of cultural icons like Louis Armstrong. Initially met with resistance due to her cannabis ties, Macias chose not to hide her identity. "The community at first actively tried to remove me," she says. "But the men of Zulu stood up for me. They said, ‘This is our Queen.'"
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Her leadership extended into Women Grow, where she rose to CEO. Under her direction, the organization became a national force for education, mentorship and entrepreneurship.
In 2024, Macias co-created Hope, a product line tailored for children with autism, in partnership with advocate Erica Daniels. Hope generated over $1 million in its first year, offering relief to families seeking alternative treatments.
Women Grow's 2025 Leadership Summit was set to mark another milestone, with WNBA star Brittney Griner scheduled to deliver a keynote. But on Feb. 17, Griner abruptly left the event after finding a disturbing message in her hotel room. Women Grow called it "an attack" and vowed to continue its work.
Also read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/25/05/45297889/germanys-cannabis-industry-hits-e500m-2500-pharmacies-now-dispense-211-grow-clubs-approved">Germany&#8217;s Cannabis Industry Hits 500 Million Euros: 2,500 Pharmacies Now Dispense, 211 Grow Clubs Approved</a>
"Attacking women for coming together to lead and create change will not stop us," Macias said at the time. "We will not be silenced."
Today, Macias continues to mentor operators, push for equitable legislation and warn about the risks of corporate consolidation. "Taxation will kill your business," she notes. Rescheduling to Schedule III might bring benefits but could also allow Big Pharma to dominate.
For Macias, the mission is deeply personal. Her children grew up with cannabis as medicine. One son, living with Crohn's disease, uses it for relief. Another now works alongside her.
"No means keep trying," she says. "If I'm not out there sharing this message, they might not have a second chance at life."
Disclosure: This article was originally published on <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/javierhasse/2025/01/06/how-queen-zulu-dr-macias-lost-her-home-then-built-a-cannabis-empire-and-inspired-brittney-griner/">Forbes</a> and appears here with permission. It does not represent Benzinga's reporting and has not been edited for content or accuracy.
Photo courtesy of Women Grow

Cannabis

Interview

From Homeless To Queen Zulu: Dr. Chanda Macias' Journey To Cannabis Leadership And Brittney Griner's Inspiration

Charlie Munger, the late vice-chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, once offered some words of wisdom for investors dealing with market turbulence.
What Happened: Munger, who was a close collaborator of Warren Buffett at&nbsp;Berkshire Hathaway, underscored the necessity for long-term investors to weather market volatility. He argued that if investors are unable to tolerate substantial market downturns, they are not cut out to be ordinary shareholders.
Munger drew from his personal experience during the 2009 financial meltdown, when his Berkshire Hathaway shares had plummeted by over 50%. Despite this setback, he retained his faith in the company and persisted in his stock market investments.
"I think it's in the nature of long-term shareholding that the normal vicissitudes in markets means that the long-term holder has the quoted value of his stocks go down by, say, 50%," Munger <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XlBrohrIUc">told </a>BBC in an interview. 
"If you're not willing to keep your chin up during the occasional rout, you're not fit to be a common shareholder, and you deserve the mediocre result you're going to get compared to the people who can be more philosophical about these market fluctuations," he added. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/02/43581818/charlie-mungers-four-life-lessons-consume-less-than-you-accumulate-invest-judiciously-persistently-learn-and-uphold-discipline">Charlie Munger&#8217;s Four Life Lessons: &#8216;Consume Less Than You Accumulate, Invest Judiciously, Persistently Learn, and Uphold Discipline&#8217;</a>
Both Munger and Buffett adhered to Buffett&#8217;s renowned mantra:&nbsp;&#8220;Be fearful when others are&nbsp;greedy, and be greedy when&nbsp;others are fearful.&#8221; 
This strategy guided them to consistently acquire undervalued stocks, trusting in the eventual success of American businesses.
Furthermore, Munger counseled investors to exploit opportunities to purchase assets at substantial markdowns during major market slumps, instead of holding out for better conditions.
Why It Matters:&nbsp;Munger&#8217;s advice comes at a time when market volatility is a significant concern for many investors. His words serve as a reminder that patience and long-term vision are key to navigating turbulent markets. 
His strategy of capitalizing on market downturns by purchasing undervalued stocks has proven successful in the past, and may serve as a useful guide for investors in the current climate. 
His belief in the eventual success of American businesses also offers a positive outlook for investors worried about the future of the U.S. economy.
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Image Via Shutterstock

Charlie Munger's Timeless Advice For Navigating Volatile Markets: 'Be Fearful When Others Are Greedy, And Be Greedy When Others Are Fearful'

Mira Murati, the former chief technology officer of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45185633/ups-explores-humanoid-robots-as-figure-ai-secures-675m-from-jeff-bezos-openai-and-intel-targeting-9b-revenue-by-2029">OpenAI</a> and a central figure behind ChatGPT, is launching her own <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44184371/google-co-founder-larry-pages-ai-startup-could-change-product-manufacturing-forever-report">AI startup</a>, and she&#8217;s doing it in blockbuster fashion.
Thinking Machines Lab, the AI company founded by Murati early this year, is raising a $2 billion seed round at a $10 billion valuation.
According to<a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/mira-murati-is-asking-investors-to-commit-to-at-least-50-million-2025-5"> Business Insider</a>, the round is being led by Andreessen Horowitz, with support from Sequoia Capital and other top-tier investors. Those interested in backing the venture are being asked to commit a minimum of $50 million per check, a staggering requirement for what would be one of the largest seed rounds in startup history.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A High-Stakes Bet On Next-Gen AI</h2>
The startup's ambition is to reshape the way artificial intelligence is built and understood. According to the company&#8217;s<a href="https://thinkingmachines.ai/"> website</a>, Thinking Machines Lab will focus on making AI &#8220;more widely understood, customizable, and generally capable,&#8221; highlighting a shift toward both transparency and user control.
That positioning places the company in direct conceptual competition with AI giants like OpenAI, Google's Gemini, Elon Musk's xAI, and Anthropic, which are all currently racing to define the next generation of large language models and autonomous systems, Business Insider reported.
Murati spent more than six years at OpenAI, contributing to the development of ChatGPT and other advanced AI research projects. According to Business Insider, she was briefly appointed interim CEO in November 2023, after the board unexpectedly removed Sam Altman, a decision that triggered internal upheaval across the company. Following Altman's reinstatement just days later, Murati returned to her position as chief technology officer.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Backed By Industry Legends And Technical All-Stars</h2>
Andreessen Horowitz, the legendary venture capital firm that previously backed Facebook and Airbnb (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ABNB#NASDAQ">ABNB</a>),<a href="https://www.ft.com/content/fdef2f53-f8f7-4553-866b-1c9bfdbeea42"> Financial Times</a> reported, is leading the round alongside Sequoia Capital, known for its investments in Apple (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>), Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), and WhatsApp,<a href="https://fortune.com/2024/07/25/seqouia-capital-roelof-botha-investment-culture-apple-nvidia/"> Fortune</a> says. Their involvement may signal strong institutional belief in Murati's long-term potential.
Thinking Machines Lab is also assembling a brain trust of former OpenAI engineers and scientists. According to<a href="https://thefoundersmagazine.com/thinking-machines-lab/"> The Founders Magazine</a>, team members include Bob McGrew, former head of research at OpenAI, Alec Radford, one of the minds behind the original GPT, Barret Zoph, a top researcher on ChatGPT, and John Schulman, co-lead of the Reinforcement Learning from Human Feedback technique that powers modern AI safety.
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>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A $50M Entry Ticket To The Future Of AI</h2>
Few early-stage startups command minimum investments in the tens of millions. According to Business Insider, Murati&#8217;s $50 million threshold is a practical necessity since training large models and building scalable infrastructure requires capital on a massive scale.
If the raise closes as expected, Thinking Machines Lab will stand beside OpenAI and Anthropic as one of the most well-capitalized AI startups in the world, Business Insider says, and one of the only ones led by a woman.
With technical vision, elite backing, and a mission to open up the black box of AI, Murati's next chapter may reshape the way the world builds and interacts with intelligent systems.
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AAPL

ABNB

Former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati's $2B AI Startup Thinking Machines Lab Sets $50M Investment Minimum, Backed By Andreessen Horowitz And Sequoia Capital

In a recent cybersecurity incident, a significant&nbsp;data breach at a human&nbsp;resources firm has exposed the personal information of hundreds of thousands of Americans, increasing their vulnerability to identity theft and fraud.
What Happened: Maryland-based firm&nbsp;Kelly Benefits&nbsp;revealed a major data breach impacting 413,032 individuals in a&nbsp;filing with the Office of&nbsp;the Maine Attorney General. The company&#8217;s internal probe discovered that an unauthorized party had gained access to its database, pilfering customer information such as names, birth dates,&nbsp;Social Security numbers, tax ID&nbsp;numbers, and financial account data.
According to the <a href="https://www.maine.gov/agviewer/content/ag/985235c7-cb95-4be2-8792-a1252b4f8318/7a0c076f-6530-433d-b017-bb849c81b4b8.html">report</a>, the breach took place from December 12 to 17, 2024. After a thorough examination of the compromised files, Kelly Benefits concluded its analysis on March 3, 2025. The company provides a variety of HR&nbsp;services, including benefits administration, payroll&nbsp;solutions, and retirement planning.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42716153/massive-data-breach-exposes-millions-of-credit-and-debit-cards-is-your-account-safe">Massive Data Breach Exposes Millions of Credit and Debit Cards—Is Your Account Safe?</a>
Kelly Benefits has alerted the affected individuals and is providing&nbsp;12-month credit monitoring and identity&nbsp;theft protection services. Despite reporting the incident&nbsp;to federal law enforcement and&nbsp;regulatory agencies, the company states that it has found &#8220;no evidence of misuse of&nbsp;any information related to this&nbsp;incident&#8221; to date.
Why It Matters: This incident underscores the growing threat of cyber attacks and data breaches to businesses and their customers. Companies like Kelly Benefits hold sensitive information, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. 
While the firm has taken steps to mitigate the impact of the breach, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of robust cybersecurity measures. It also highlights the need for swift action and transparency in the event of a breach to protect affected individuals and maintain trust.
As cyber threats continue to evolve, businesses must stay vigilant and invest in advanced security measures to safeguard their data and protect their customers.
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Major Data Breach Exposes Social Security Numbers, Financial Records and Much More

Donald Trump is heading to Saudi Arabia this week, sparking fresh speculation over a potential civil nuclear agreement <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44758747/iran-signals-openness-to-nuclear-talks-with-us-warns-against-trumps-aggressive-theatrics" rel="noreferrer noopener">between Washington and Riyadh.</a>
The kingdom has long expressed interest in developing its own nuclear energy capabilities, and the U.S. administration appears eager to engage in such a venture, the Associated Press <a target="_blank" href="https://apnews.com/article/civilian-nuclear-program-saudi-arabia-trump-iran-be8697a1890d0158cef57babb47e7583" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a>.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright recently traveled to Saudi Arabia ahead of the president's visit and signaled that discussions were progressing.
He suggested that significant advancements in nuclear collaboration between the two nations could be expected in the near future.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44758747/iran-signals-openness-to-nuclear-talks-with-us-warns-against-trumps-aggressive-theatrics" rel="noreferrer noopener">Iran Signals Openness To Nuclear Talks With US, Warns Against Trump&#8217;s &#8216;Aggressive Theatrics&#8217;</a>
The potential deal holds strategic importance for both countries.
For the U.S., it offers a chance to edge out Chinese and Russian influence in the Gulf's burgeoning energy sector.
For Saudi Arabia, it's about reducing domestic oil consumption by turning to nuclear power for civilian energy use and tapping into its own uranium reserves, Associated Press adds.
However, the prospect of allowing Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium domestically has raised alarm among nonproliferation advocates.
While such enrichment is necessary for nuclear energy, it also carries the risk of being repurposed for weapons development, a move that could destabilize regional security dynamics.
The U.S. has historically avoided transferring enrichment capabilities to non-nuclear-weapon states.
Under the previous administration, nuclear cooperation was part of a larger negotiation package that included arms sales and normalization of Saudi-Israeli ties, Associated Press notes.
While the Trump administration has decoupled these elements to some extent, experts believe the nuclear issue could still be used as leverage in pushing forward regional diplomatic goals, particularly within the framework of the Abraham Accords.
Despite current diplomatic overtures toward Iran, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has previously stated that if Tehran were to acquire nuclear arms, Saudi Arabia would likely pursue the same path.
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Politics

Trump Eyeing Nuclear Deal With Saudi Arabia? China and Russia Watch Closely

The inflation crisis that has been hammering the U.S. economy is now taking a visible toll on consumers. Last month, <a href="https://www.conference-board.org/topics/consumer-confidence">data</a> showed that consumer confidence in the U.S. fell to a five-year low. The country's economy shrank in the first quarter for the first time since 2022.&nbsp;
The current earnings season is highlighting the struggles of companies exposed to consumer spending. Fast-food giant McDonald&#8217;s Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MCD#NYSE">MCD</a>) March quarter earnings and revenue missed Wall Street's estimates, while the company saw a 3.6% drop in same-store sales in the U.S., the biggest <a href="https://www.wsj.com/business/hospitality/mcdonalds-mcd-q1-earnings-report-2025-76b4d394-9b782952">decline</a> since 2020.
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McDonald's CEO Chris Kempczinski was frank in pointing out the plight of consumers impacting the company during its <a href="https://seekingalpha.com/article/4780500-mcdonalds-corporation-mcd-q1-2025-earnings-call-transcript">earnings call</a> with analysts. The executive said that quick-service restaurant industry traffic from the low-income consumers plunged by double digits compared with the previous quarter. Middle-income consumers, who had been holding up relatively well until a few months ago, also saw similar declines, which indicates that economic pressure on traffic has "broadened," according to Kempczinski.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">‘Heightened Anxiety'</h2>
However, as the average American's wallet feels the squeeze, fast-food spending from rich customers remains resilient.
"Traffic growth from the high-income cohort remains solid, illustrating the divided U.S. economy, where low and middle-income consumers in particular are being weighed down by the cumulative impact of inflation, and heightened anxiety about the economic outlook," Kempczinski said.
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Traffic Weak Despite $5 Value Meals&nbsp;</h2>
McDonald's saw consumer weakness despite <a href="https://corporate.mcdonalds.com/corpmcd/our-stories/article/mcdonalds-launching-mcvalue-platform-inus-restaurants-in2025.html">launching</a> new $5 value meals earlier this year across its U.S. restaurants to woo customers.&nbsp; Kempczinski said in the latest earnings call that the company knows affordability and value are "paramount" in the current environment, and it has launched cheaper meals across five major international markets.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Consumer Woes Across International Markets</h2>
The economic struggles of consumers aren't just limited to the U.S. Kempczinski said during the call that the company is seeing a "similar story" in international markets, where comparable sales declined 1% from last year. Traffic was positive in just two of the five major markets.
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McDonald's total <a href="https://corporate.mcdonalds.com/content/dam/sites/corp/nfl/pdf/Q1_25_Earnings_Release.pdf">revenue</a> fell 3% year over year in the first quarter. The company also saw comparable sales declines in the UK, while the Middle East and Japan posted gains.&nbsp;
"We&#8217;ll remain agile to ensure McValue continues to meet consumer needs and positions us for success in a challenging marketplace," Kempczinski added. "For the remainder of 2025, we&#8217;ll continue to include everyday value meal deals starting at $5, given how the current $5 Meal Deal in particular has resonated with customers."
McDonald's rivals are also beginning to see the impact of contractions in consumer spending. Yum! Brands (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/YUM#NYSE">YUM</a>), the owner of Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and KFC, recently <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/30/yum-brands-yum-q1-2025-earnings.html">missed</a> Q1 revenue expectations as Pizza Hut's same-store sales slid 5% in the U.S.
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'A Divided Economy': McDonald's CEO Says Rich Keep Dining Out But Average Income Consumers Feeling Economic 'Anxiety'

Americans are scrambling to buy new cars as President Donald Trump's tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts are expected to drive up prices. Data from Cox Automotive <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/u-s-new-vehicle-sales-surge-buyers-hope-to-beat-tariff-hikes/">shows</a> that new car sales in March rose 17% from the month before and 12% from March 2024. Some analysts <a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2025/05/05/economists-tariff-costs-per-vehicle/83446003007/">estimate</a> the tariff impact to range from $2,000 to $15,000 per vehicle in the U.S.
However, before you panic and rush to buy a new car for no solid reason, take a lesson from Warren Buffett.
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It's common to come across billionaires bragging about their luxury car fleets, huge mansions and private jets. But it's rare to find someone like Buffett—one of the five richest people in the world, worth $158 billion—driving the same sedan for eight years.
Buffett is known for not spending needlessly on new cars and for avoiding any purchases he doesn&#8217;t need. Buffett once <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H5pjizrVQFQ">explained</a> why he dislikes going car shopping during a public event:.
"I&#8217;m not ready for that. It&#8217;s another car. I look at that like anything else. It would probably take me half a day to go through the exercise of buying a car and reading the owner&#8217;s manual and all that, and that&#8217;s just a half a day I don&#8217;t want to give up in my life for no benefit," Buffett said.
Trending: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/are-you-rich">Are you rich?</a> Here&#8217;s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">"Totally Happy" With Existing Car</h2>
The billionaire, 94, said safety is the top feature he looks for when buying a new car, adding that he does not "like to" trade away his time for a new vehicle because he's happy with his car.
"I&#8217;m totally happy with the car. I just don&#8217;t want to trade away the amount of time I&#8217;d have to spend fooling around to get familiar with the—and get title to—and do all the things, the rest of the things, pick one out, saw a new car," Buffett said during the event. "But if there&#8217;s a safer car made, I&#8217;ll be driving in it."
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Check for a New Car in "30 Seconds"</h2>
Buffett added that he would write a check in "30 seconds" if he could find a better car than his current one.
The Oracle of Omaha famously drove his 2006 Cadillac DTS for eight years, until General Motors (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>) CEO Mary Barra in 2014 finally convinced him to upgrade to a newer, better model. And it took way more than 30 seconds to convince the billionaire. Buffett asked Barra what made the new Cadillac models better:
&#8220;She told me about 50 things that were better," Buffett <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/joannmuller/2014/07/15/warren-buffett-shares-the-inside-scoop-he-bought-a-cadillac-not-a-subaru/">told Forbes</a> in 2014. "By the time we got to lunch &#8212; and it&#8217;s only five or six minutes &#8212; she sold me.&#8221;
The billionaire traded in his 2006 Cadillac for a 2014 Cadillac XTS.
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Warren Buffett Didn't Buy a New Car for Years — Here's Why You Might Want to Wait (Even With Looming Tariffs)

President Donald Trump&#8217;s administration is reportedly weighing the possibility of suspending habeas corpus, a legal safeguard that allows individuals to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/45002141/trumps-deportation-policies-could-worsen-social-securitys-funding-shortfall-by-11-warns-new-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">challenge unlawful detentions in court</a>.
The idea has surfaced amid the administration&#8217;s increasing friction with the judiciary over immigration-related arrests and deportations, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c0qgz18glljo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> BBC, citing a statement from Stephen Miller, the White House Deputy Chief of Staff.
BBC writes that Miller told reporters Friday that the U.S. Constitution permits suspension of this right in cases of &#8220;rebellion or invasion,&#8221; a justification the administration may consider in its crackdown on undocumented immigration.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/05/45335338/trump-makes-india-pakistan-ceasefire-declaration-in-casual-manner-thank-you-for-your-attention-to-this-matter" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump Makes India-Pakistan Ceasefire Declaration In Casual Manner: &#8216;Thank You For Your Attention To This Matter!&#8217;</a>
Miller said that judicial challenges to immigration-related detentions are obstructing enforcement efforts, and that the White House is exploring aggressive legal measures in response.
He referred to habeas corpus as a &#8220;privilege&#8221; rather than a guaranteed right and asserted that Congress had already curtailed court jurisdiction over immigration matters.
Legal experts were quick to dispute Miller&#8217;s interpretation, noting that only Congress has the authority to suspend habeas corpus.
The administration&#8217;s approach has come under judicial scrutiny in recent weeks.
A federal judge recently ordered the release of a Turkish student detained for six weeks following his article criticizing Israeli policies, BBC adds. Another judge mandated the release of a Palestinian advocate from Columbia University, citing habeas corpus protections.
Still, some judges have ruled in favor of the administration in similar cases.
Trump, while not publicly mentioning habeas corpus, hinted in April that prior presidents had used powerful legal tools to push past judicial blocks on deportation policies.
Habeas corpus — Latin for &#8220;you shall have the body&#8221; — is a <a href="https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/habeas%20corpus" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">legal</a> principle in the U.S. Constitution.
It has only been suspended four times in American history, including during the Civil War under President Abraham Lincoln and in Hawaii after the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941.
Returning to the White House with renewed focus on immigration, Trump has made it clear that his administration will explore all avenues to expedite deportations.
While detention numbers have surged, deportation efforts have faced legal and logistical hurdles — including a mistaken removal of at least one individual.
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Trump Administration Reportedly Weighing Suspension of Habeas Corpus

For the first time since the COVID pandemic, zero cargo ships are on their way from China to the two primary ports in California. This sudden halt in trade comes in the wake of the Trump administration imposing substantial tariffs on Chinese imports.
What Happened: According to a report, no cargo vessels had left China for the two primary&nbsp;West Coast ports in the&nbsp;past 12 hours. This is a stark contrast to the situation just six days ago when 41 vessels were slated&nbsp;to depart China for the&nbsp;San Pedro Bay Complex, which&nbsp;comprises&nbsp;the Port of Los Angeles&nbsp;and Port of Long Beach.
The ongoing trade war initiated by President Donald Trump has led to the implementation of heavy tariffs on a majority of Chinese imports last month. 
This has resulted in a significant decrease in the number of ships carrying cargo to American ports. The sudden dip in vessels departing from China has sparked concerns among port officials, <a href="https://edition.cnn.com/2025/05/10/business/zero-ships-china-trade-ports-pandemic">reports</a> CNN.
Mario Cordero,&nbsp;the CEO of the Port&nbsp;of Long Beach, expressed his concerns stating, &#8220;That&#8217;s cause for alarm.&#8221; The country&#8217;s busiest ports are experiencing a steep drop in cargo, with&nbsp;the Port of Long Beach&nbsp;witnessing a 35-40% fall compared to the usual cargo volume.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/05/45335581/trump-proposes-major-cut-in-china-tariffs-signaling-shift-in-trade-war">Trump Proposes Major Cut in China Tariffs, Signaling Shift in Trade War</a>
Trade representatives from the US and China&nbsp;are set to meet in&nbsp;Geneva this weekend in an attempt to diffuse the escalating trade war. President Trump has proposed reducing&nbsp;the tariff rate with China&nbsp;to 80%, but the final decision rests with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
For consumers who are already grappling with&nbsp;higher prices or shortages of&nbsp;certain items, a resolution can&#8217;t come soon enough. 
Cordero warned, &#8220;If things don&#8217;t change quickly&#8230;we may be seeing empty products on the shelves. This is now going to be felt by the consumer in the coming 30 days.&#8221;
Why It Matters: The abrupt halt in cargo shipments from China to the US is a direct consequence of the ongoing trade war between the two economic giants. 
This has led to a significant drop in cargo volume at major US ports, raising concerns about potential supply chain disruptions and price hikes for consumers. 
The upcoming meeting between&nbsp;US and Chinese trade representatives&nbsp;will be crucial in determining the future course of this trade war and its impact on global trade dynamics.
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No Cargo Vessels En Route From China To California For First Time Since Pandemic

Elon Musk-owned SpaceX&nbsp;faces a lawsuit from a former employee, who alleges discriminatory treatment and wrongful termination due to his chronic bowel disease.
What Happened: Douglas Altshuler, 58, has accused SpaceX of monitoring and disciplining him for frequent restroom use, a necessity due to his Crohn&#8217;s disease.
In the <a href="https://www.documentcloud.org/documents/25935160-altshuler-v-spacex/">lawsuit</a>, Altshuler claims that despite providing a doctor&#8217;s note explaining his condition, his supervisors timed&nbsp;his bathroom breaks and reprimanded&nbsp;him if he exceeded 10 minutes.
Altshuler has also mentioned that he was threatened with termination for using the restroom too often. His request for&nbsp;special accommodation was dismissed as&nbsp;&#8220;unsubstantiated&#8221;. He was eventually fired for what SpaceX termed &#8220;deficient performance&#8221;.
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The suit also alleges that Altshuler was denied proper meal breaks, underpaid, and exposed to hazardous chemicals. He reported witnessing industrial parts being dried in a kitchen where employees prepared meals.
Altshuler&#8217;s attorney, Clive Pontusson, said in a statement, &#8220;Employees&nbsp;have the right to request&nbsp;accommodations for disabilities without fear&nbsp;of losing their jobs. They&nbsp;also have the right to&nbsp;report unsafe conditions without facing&nbsp;retaliation.&#8221;
Why It Matters: This lawsuit comes as a significant blow to SpaceX, a company known for its groundbreaking space exploration initiatives. 
Altshuler, who&nbsp;began working at SpaceX in&nbsp;2023 and was fired last&nbsp;year,&nbsp;is seeking back pay and&nbsp;damages. The company has yet to comment on the lawsuit.
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Termination

Former Employee Sues Musk's SpaceX, Claiming He Was Fired Over Bathroom Breaks

A Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) whale that had been dormant for over ten years has sprung into action, transferring a massive $207.51 million worth of Bitcoin.
What Happened: The Bitcoin whale shifted 2,186 BTC to another wallet. This Bitcoin stash was first received by the dormant wallet in July 2013 when BTC was priced&nbsp;at $85. At the time&nbsp;of this recent transaction,&nbsp;Bitcoin was trading at $94,929,&nbsp;indicating a price increase of about 111,581% over nearly 142 months.
According to the report <a href="https://bitinfocharts.com/bitcoin/address/1NWPS2fWw6FMeJEjg6DMMpYxQyB4TKpVsb">by </a>BitInfoCharts, the whale also transferred a smaller Bitcoin stash that it received on two separate occasions in 2014. 
In March&nbsp;2014, the wallet received 82&nbsp;BTC when Bitcoin was trading around $612, and in November 2014, it received 75 BTC when Bitcoin was approximately $377.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44348215/bitcoin-whale-takes-332-million-short-position-heres-where-it-gets-liquidated">Bitcoin Whale Takes $332 Million Short Position, Here&#8217;s Where It Gets Liquidated</a>
During its period of inactivity, the wallet also received small amounts of Bitcoin, suggesting that it may have been a target of dusting attacks. These attacks aim to de-anonymize a cryptocurrency user by sending small&nbsp;amounts of Bitcoin to an&nbsp;address to monitor the user&#8217;s holdings and transaction activities.
Why It Matters: The sudden activity of this ancient Bitcoin whale is significant in the cryptocurrency market. It highlights the potential for large, dormant accounts to suddenly become active and make substantial transactions. This can have a considerable impact on Bitcoin&#8217;s price and market dynamics. 
The whale&#8217;s massive profit also underscores the substantial price appreciation of Bitcoin over the past decade, reinforcing its status as a lucrative investment. 
The dusting attacks on the wallet further emphasize the ongoing security and privacy concerns in the cryptocurrency space.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock/nuttapon averuttaman

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

Cryptocurrency

$BTC

Decade-Old Bitcoin Whale Emerges, Transfers $207.51 Million BTC With Nearly 112,000% Profit

In a recent reaffirmation of her bullish stance, ARK Invest CEO Cathie Wood has once again predicted that Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) will hit a minimum of $700,000 in the coming years.
What Happened: Speaking at a recent interview, Wood reiterated ARK&#8217;s forecast of a minimum 580% surge in Bitcoin&#8217;s current value by 2030. 
She <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mVsSn5EBFlE">detailed</a>, &#8220;We&nbsp;have always had a 2030&nbsp;target, the base case in&nbsp;the $700,000 to $750,000 range,&nbsp;the bull case in the&nbsp;$1.5 million range.&#8221;
Wood highlighted three primary factors propelling this audacious Bitcoin price prediction. These encompass Bitcoin&#8217;s potential to seize a share from gold or expand the store-of-value market, institutions starting to invest in Bitcoin, and emerging market use cases.
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In addition to her Bitcoin forecast, Wood also shared her views on the current economic situation. She stated that the US is in a recession but anticipates it to end soon, following&nbsp;more clarity around President Trump's&nbsp;tariff negotiations. She is optimistic that this will trigger considerable economic growth, partly driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI).
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44889289/this-crypto-analyst-predicts-bitcoin-could-soar-137-under-perfect-market-conditions">This Crypto Analyst Predicts Bitcoin Could Soar 137% Under Perfect Market Conditions</a>
"I just put out a letter talking about the rolling recession we've been in for the last three years, since the Fed jacked up rates. We got a negative quarter in the first quarter, and potentially in the second quarter as well. And I think more and more people are getting concerned about an extended recession, and amid all the uncertainty, we actually think we're at the end of this rolling recession, and that we are moving into a period, after all of this uncertainty, of much greater productivity,&#8221; Wood added. 
&#8220;I&nbsp;think we're going to see a lot more productivity driven growth, which means inflation is going to be much lower than expected, which is going to be very capital friendly," she shared. 
At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading at $102,811, marking a 2.4% increase&nbsp;in the last 24 hours.
Why It Matters: Wood&#8217;s prediction is significant as it reflects the growing confidence in Bitcoin&#8217;s potential to disrupt traditional financial markets. The forecast also underscores the increasing institutional interest in Bitcoin as a viable investment. 
Furthermore, Wood&#8217;s comments on the economic climate highlight the potential role of Bitcoin and AI in driving economic growth post-recession.
Read Next
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Shutterstock/Rcc_Btn

Cathie Wood Stands Firm on Bold $700,000 Bitcoin Prediction for Investors, Says 'Bull Case in the $1.5 Million Range'

A recent shift in how the <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">Social Security Administration</a> handles benefit overpayments may offer partial relief — but it still comes with serious consequences. Effective April 25, the SSA began withholding up to 50% of monthly Title II benefits, such as retirement, disability, or survivor payments, from those who received overpayments.&nbsp;
While that's a step back from the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44368080/ssa-to-seek-100-recovery-on-social-security-overpayments-heres-what-this-means-for-your-benefits">previously announced 100% clawback</a>, experts say the new policy can still leave retirees and other beneficiaries in financial distress.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Why Are Benefits Being Withheld?</h2>
Overpayments happen when the SSA sends out more money than a person is actually owed. This can occur for several reasons, including agency errors or delays in processing information — like changes to a beneficiary's income, living situation, or marital status.
When the SSA determines that an overpayment has occurred, it sends a notice asking for full and immediate repayment. If the beneficiary doesn't respond within roughly 90 days — by requesting a waiver, a reconsideration, or a lower repayment rate — the SSA begins automatically withholding funds.
According to an <a href="https://secure.ssa.gov/apps10/reference.nsf/lnx/04252025032443PM">emergency message</a> from the SSA, the new policy sets a default withholding rate of 50% for all new overpayment notices beginning April 25. This means half of a beneficiary's monthly check may be withheld until the debt is paid off — unless they take action.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Relief from 100%, But Still Not Easy</h2>
The SSA's decision follows backlash against a previous plan to withhold 100% of benefits for overpaid recipients. That plan, <a href="https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/releases/2025/#2025-03-07-a">announced</a> earlier this year, would have left some individuals without any income at all. Critics, including advocacy organizations and lawmakers, called the full clawback "draconian."
While the reduced rate is seen as progress, it's far from a full solution.
"If you're relying on your benefits to pay your rent or your mortgage and buy food, losing half of that income is going to be devastating and can still result in people becoming homeless," Kate Lang, director of federal income security at Justice in Aging, told <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/05/social-security-overpayment-withholding-rate-change.html">CNBC</a>.
Richard Fiesta, executive director of the Alliance for Retired Americans, told CNBC the change still risks causing "immediate economic hardship" for many, particularly when the overpayment was not the beneficiary's fault.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Can You Dispute the Overpayment?</h2>
Yes — but it's not always straightforward. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44292349/if-i-were-a-beneficiary-id-be-setting-aside-some-money-right-now-former-ssa-commissioner-warns-t">Beneficiaries</a> can request a reconsideration, a waiver, or a lower withholding rate. However, responses can vary depending on the SSA employee handling the case.
"There are thousands of employees that individual beneficiaries are going to be dealing with to ask for a waiver or ask to negotiate a different repayment rate," Lang said. "And those employees have a lot of discretion in what they decide."&nbsp;
Plus, long wait times for SSA appointments can make it harder for people to respond in time.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What to Do If You Receive an Overpayment Notice</h2>
If you get a notice, act quickly. According to the SSA, you typically have about 90 days to challenge it before the SSA begins withholding up to 50% of your monthly benefit.
Experts recommend contacting the SSA as soon as possible to explore your options. You may be able to reduce the withholding rate or avoid repayment altogether if you weren't at fault for the overpayment.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bottom Line</h2>
While the SSA's decision to cut the withholding rate from 100% to 50% may sound like good news, the fallout could still be serious for many retirees. Stay informed, respond quickly to any overpayment notice, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
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You Could Still Lose Half Your Benefits: Social Security Reduces Overpayment Withholding Rate, Experts Warn Of Fallout

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S&P Global agrees to acquire ORBCOMM's Automatic Identification System business, strengthening its supply chain and maritime offerings

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골드만삭스 리서치가 새로운 해를 맞아 대담한 주식 선택과 2025년 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/biotech/24/12/42710358/veteran-investor-bets-big-on-sp-500-hitting-7000-by-end-of-2025-these-sectors-could-lead-the-charge" target="_blank" rel="noopener">시장을 형성할</a> 다섯 가지 투자 테마를 조명했다.
무슨 일이 있었나: 목요일에 공유된 노트에서, 스티븐 크론(Steven Kron)이 이끄는 애널리스트 팀은 &#8220;컨빅션 리스트(Conviction List)&#8221; &#8211; 주목할 만한 투자 아이디어로 구성된 포트폴리오를 재조정했다.
골드만삭스는 벨덴(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BDC#NYSE">BDC</a>), 노르웨이 크루즈 라인 홀딩스(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NCLH#NYSE">NCLH</a>), 그리고 우버 테크놀로지스(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>)를 리스트에 추가했다. 이 회사들은 폭스(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FOXA#NASDAQ">FOXA</a>), 파커 하니핀(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PH#NYSE">PH</a>) 그리고 TPG(TPG.)를 대체했다.
중요성: 산업 기술이 다시 유행하고 있다. 애널리스트 마크 델라니(Mark Delaney)는 벨덴이 산업의 순환적 회복을 타고 상승하고, 고마진 소프트웨어 솔루션 비즈니스를 확장하고 있다고 보고 있다. 델라니는 2025년과 2026년 모두 컨센서스 예상치를 상회하는 주당순이익(EPS)을 예측하여, 이를 산업 분야에서 두드러진 선택으로 만들었다.
크루즈 산업은 더 강력한 2025년을 향해 항해하고 있다. 애널리스트 리지 도브(Lizzie Dove)는 순 구매 의향(NPI) 데이터의 가속화와 2023년 경영진 인사로 인한 비용 절감을 언급했다. 도브는 이 기업이 단위당 수익과 비용 격차를 2.5%포인트 확대하여 동종업계인 로얄 캐리비안 크루즈(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RCL#NYSE">RCL</a>)에 가까운 평가로 만들어질 것이라고 예상한다.
애널리스트 에릭 셰리던(Eric Sheridan)은 이동성 사업에 대한 회의론과 자율주행차의 부상에도 불구하고 우버에 대해 긍정적인 전망을 유지하고 있다. 그는 2023년에서 2026년까지 조정된 EBITDA의 연평균 성장률(CAGR)이 39%에 이를 것이라고 예측한다. 이 투자은행에 따르면, 우버는 2026년까지 $3.50의 GAAP EPS를 제공할 것으로 예상되며, 이는 컨센서스보다 7% 높은 수치이다. 골드만삭스는 우버 주식에 대해 12개월 목표 주가를 $96로 설정하여, 현재 시장 수준에서 거의 60% 상승할 것으로 예상한다.
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2025년에 주목할 주요 테마: AI, M&amp;A, 탈세계화 등</h3>
이 투자은행은 새해를 맞이하여 주목해야 할 다섯 가지 주요 테마를 제시했습니다.
<ul>
<li>인공지능(AI): 골드만삭스의 카시 랑간(Kash Rangan)은 AI 투자가 2025년에 인프라 지출에서 플랫폼과 애플리케이션으로 전환될 것이라고 예상한다. 최근 노트에서 랑간은 AI가 기업 소프트웨어에 점점 더 통합되고 있음을 강조했다. 이 트렌드에 노출된 주식으로는 엔비디아(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), 스노우플레이크(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SNOW#NYSE">SNOW</a>) 그리고 테라다인(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TER#NASDAQ">TER</a>)이 있다.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>규제 완화, M&amp;A, 자본 시장 회복: 잠재적인 트럼프 행정부 2기 아래의 규제 변화가 M&amp;A 활동을 가속화할 수 있다고 골드만의 애널리스트들이 말한다. 씨티그룹(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/C#NYSE">C</a>), 에버코어(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EVR#NYSE">EVR</a>) 그리고 S&amp;P 글로벌(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPGI#NYSE">SPGI</a>)과 같은 금융 기업들이 혜택을 볼 수 있다. 애널리스트 리차드 램스덴(Richard Ramsden)은 최근 은행과 금융 자문사에 대한 환경이 더 유리해질 것이라고 언급했다.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>미국 재충전: 칼리 데이븐포트(Carly Davenport)는 데이터 센터와 AI 컴퓨팅의 전력 수요 증가를 강조하며, 이 추세가 유틸리티 자본 지출의 지속적인 성장을 주도하고 있다고 지적했다. 그녀의 팀은 운송 전기화를 지원하기 위한 에너지 인프라의 중요성을 강조했다. DBA 셈프라(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SRE#NYSE">SRE</a>)가 골드만의 이 분야 최고의 선택이다.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>탈세계화: 관세 전쟁의 시대는 끝나지 않았다. 얀 하치우스(Jan Hatzius)와 경제팀은 중국 수입품에 대한 관세가 20%포인트 인상되고, 유럽 자동차와 멕시코 전기차에 새로운 세금이 부과될 것으로 예상한다. 벌컨 머티리얼즈(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VMC#NYSE">VMC</a>)와 우드워드(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WWD#NASDAQ">WWD</a>)와 같은 회사들은 이러한 정책으로 인한 공급망 혼란에 잘 적응할 수 있다.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>탄력적인 미국 소비자: 거시적 우려에도 불구하고 골드만삭스는 미국 소비자들에게 또 다른 강력한 해를 그리고 있다. 재량적 현금 흐름이 2025년에 5.2% 증가할 것으로 예상되며, 2024년의 4.4%에서 상승할 것으로 보인다. 이는 저축률 상승에 의해 지원된다. 주목해야 할 주식으로는 노르웨이 크루즈 라인, 우버, 벌링턴 스토어스(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BURL#NYSE">BURL</a>) 그리고 핀터레스트(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PINS#NYSE">PINS</a>)가 있다.</li>
<li></li>
</ul>
지금 읽어보세요:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/large-cap/25/01/42770597/wall-street-watches-january-sp-500-tends-to-gain-yet-streaming-giant-steals-the-market-show">월스트리트가 1월을 주목 &#8211; S&amp;P 500은 상승하는 경향이 있지만, 스트리밍 대기업이 시장의 관심을 빼앗습니다.</a></li>
</ul>
이미지: Shutterstock
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골드만삭스, '컨빅션 리스트'에 3개의 주식 추가 및 2025년 주목해야 할 5가지 시장 동향

최근 미국 증권거래위원회(SEC)는 무디스(NYSE:<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/mco" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for MCO">MCO</a>)의 무디스 레이팅스(Moody&#8217;s Ratings), S&amp;P 글로벌(NYSE:<a class="items-end ticker-link-wrapper inline-flex" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/spgi" target="_blank" rel="dofollow noopener" aria-label="Go to Quote Page for SPGI">SPGI</a>)의 S&amp;P 글로벌 레이팅스, 피치 레이팅스(Fitch Ratings, Inc.)를 포함한 6개의 주요 신용평가사들에 대해 전자 통신의 유지 및 보존에 중대한 결함이 있었다며 막대한 벌금을 부과했다. 이들 기관들은 총 4,900만 달러를 초과하는 민사 벌금을 납부하기로 합의했다.
무슨 일이 (What Happened): 화요일에 발표된 SEC 보도자료에 따르면, 이들 6개의 신용평가사는 각각의 SEC 명령에서 자세히 설명된 사실을 인정하고, 그들의 행위가 연방법의 기록 유지 조항을 위반했음을 인정했다. 이들 회사는 이러한 위반 사항을 시정하기 위해 준수 정책 및 절차를 강화하기 위한 조치를 취했다.
이 중 무디스와 S&amp;P 글로벌 레이팅스는 각각 2,000만 달러의 민사 벌금을 납부하기로 합의했으며, 피치 레이팅스는 800만 달러의 민사 벌금을 납부하기로 했다. 나머지 3개 회사인 HR Ratings de México, S.A. de C.V., A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc., 및 Demotech, Inc.는 각각 25만 달러, 100만 달러, 10만 달러의 벌금을 납부하기로 합의했다.
&#8220;필수 기록을 유지하고 보존하지 못하는 경우, 직원들이 회사가 의무를 준수하고 있는지 확인하는 데 어려움을 겪고, 위반한 회사에 책임을 물을 수 없게 되어 종종 투자자에게 불이익을 줄 수 있다 것을 우리는 반복적으로 목격했다&#8221;고 SEC 집행부의 부국장인 산제이 와드화(Sanjay Wadhwa)가 말했다.
이들 6개 회사는 1934년 증권거래법 섹션 17(a)(1) 및 그에 따른 규칙 17g-2(b)(7)을 위반한 혐의를 받았다. 재정적 처벌 외에도 각 신용평가 기관들은 이러한 조항을 다시 위반하지 않겠다는 명령과 경고를 받았다.
Benzinga의 문의에 대해, S&amp;P 글로벌, AM Best, HR Ratings는 SEC의 처벌을 인정하며 각자의 규제 의무를 준수할 것을 약속했다.
중요성 (Why It Matters): 이번 집행 조치는 SEC의 규제 준수에 대한 광범위한 단속의 일환이다. 이전에 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/40693531/sec-charges-galois-capital-with-custody-rule-violations-misleading-investors" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-google-interstitial="false">SEC는 갈루아 캐피털(Galois Capital)</a>이 투자 자문법의 보관 규칙을 위반하고 투자자들을 오도한 혐의로 기소한 바 있다.
SEC는 이전에 마크 큐반(Mark Cuban)과 같은 억만장자 투자자들로부터 월스트리트에 초점을 맞추는 대신 소규모 투자자들을 희생시킨다는 비판을 받은 적이 있다.
Image via Shutterstock
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美 SEC는 무디스, S&P 글로벌, 피치 포함 6개사들에 기록 유지 실패로 $4,900만 벌금 부가

상업용 부동산 업계는 원격 근무와 <a href="http://benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38219988/economists-warn-feds-inflation-battle-could-trigger-recession-have-to-increase-the-" target="_blank" rel="noopener">인플레이션 상승</a>의 영향으로 계속해서 어려움을 겪고 있다.
이자율이 상승하고 다양한 산업 분야에서 사무실 공간을 축소하려는 광범위한 추세로 인해 이 분야는 전례 없는 규모의 빈 사무실 공간에 직면하게 되었다.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38273192/goldman-sachs-boasts-near-perfect-q1-results-5-analysts-zero-in-on-core-strengths" target="_blank" rel="noopener">월요일 실적 발표에서</a> 골드만삭스 그룹(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GS#NYSE">GS</a>)의 최고경영자(CEO) 데이비드 M. 솔로몬(David M. Solomon)은 인플레이션에 대한 지속적인 우려와 지정학적 긴장 고조와 함께 상업용 부동산의 열악한 상황을 미국 성장을 둔화시키는 주요 요인 중 하나로 언급했다.
이 부문은 금리를 둘러싼 추측에 특히 민감해졌다. 지난달, 연방준비제도(연준)의 금리 인하가 암시되면서 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/reit/24/03/37882885/10-real-estate-stocks-move-on-thursday-fed-rate-cut-possibility-sparks-rally-for-troubled-sector" target="_blank" rel="noopener">여러 주식과 펀드가 상승</a>했다. 이는 일반적으로 위험한 시장에 대한 안정성을 제공한다고 칭찬받는 부문에서는 알 수 없는 변동성을 보여주었다.
불과 며칠 후 S&amp;P 글로벌(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPGI#NYSE">SPGI</a>)은 불안정한 상업용 부동산 시장과 관련된 위험을 기반으로 5개 지역 은행의 등급을 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/37950136" target="_blank" rel="noopener">하향 조정</a>하기로 결정했다.
거대 기술 기업의 운영 변화는 부분적으로 상업용 부동산 침체를 부채질하고 있다. 코로나19 사태 이후 기술 부문에서 새로운 현상이 된 원격 또는 하이브리드 근무로의 변화로 인해 많은 기업이 필요한 것보다 더 많은 사무실 공간을 확보하게 되었다.
이는 2023년 하반기에 약간의 감소세를 보인 후 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36874447/tech-layoffs-up-over-300-month-over-month-in-january-3-companies-with-the-most-employees-laid-of" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2024년 1분기 동안 기술 부문</a>에서 계속해서 일반적인 관행으로 이어졌던 대규모 해고 추세에 추가되었다.
지난달 말 아마존닷컴 (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>)은 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/03/37983953/amazons-strategic-real-estate-plan-to-reduce-vacancy-rate-and-enhance-workspace-efficiency" target="_blank" rel="noopener">사무실 공간을 줄이고 임대를 조기 종료</a>하여 13억 달러를 절감할 계획이라고 밝혔다. 이 거대 기술 기업은 2022년과 2023년에 27,000명 이상의 직원을 해고한 후 사무실 공실률이 33.8%에 달할 것으로 예상된다.
월스트리트 저널(WSJ)의 <a href="https://www.wsj.com/real-estate/commercial/big-tech-is-downsizing-work-space-in-another-blow-to-office-real-estate-67b4685c?mod=hp_featst_pos3">보도</a>에 따르면, 알파벳(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOG#NASDAQ">GOOG</a>)(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GOOGL#NASDAQ">GOOGL</a>)는 실리콘밸리의 일부 사무실 공간을 서브리스하고, 메타 플랫폼(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>)은 자사 사무실 공간의 계약을 줄였다. 페이스북을 소유하고 있는 이 기업은 올해 전세계적으로, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/37024306">싱가포르와</a>, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/34900681">런던</a> 등의 지역을 포함하여 사무실 공간을 대폭 축소하고 있다. 한편, 세일즈포스 (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRM#NYSE">CRM</a>)는 증권거래위원회(SEC) 보고서에서 1년 전과 비교했을 때 샌프란시스코 지역의 사무실 공간을 절반만 사용하고 있다고 밝혔다.
같이 읽기: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/24/04/38278182/powell-delays-fed-rate-cuts-we-need-greater-confidence-in-inflation-2-year-yields-spik">파월은 왜 이자율 인하를 미루고 있는가</a>?
기술 부문의 후퇴는 법률 회사와 금융 회사를 포함한 다른 일반적인 사무실 주거 부문의 손실을 추가할 때 부동산 부문에 특히 고통스러운 것으로 입증되었다.
무디스 애널리틱스(Moody&#8217;s Analytics) 보고서에 따르면 1월까지 전국 대도시의 평균 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/01/36542862/empty-spaces-us-office-vacancies-rise-to-highest-levels-in-four-decades" target="_blank" rel="noopener">빈 사무실 공간은 19.6%</a>로 1979년 이후 최고치를 기록했다.
요즘 몇몇 도시에서는 극도의 사무실 공실률을 보이고 있는데, 샌프란시스코의 경우 팬데믹 이전 3.6%에 불과했던 것에 비해 36.7%를 기록했다. 이러한 공백은 시애틀, 뉴욕, 오스틴 등 기술 산업과 관련된 도시에서 더욱 두드러진다. 시애틀에서는 해당 지역에서 약 45,000명의 직원이 해고된 후 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/financing/24/02/37134484/seattles-office-space-dives-98-7-dip-reflects-tech-storm-hybrid-shifts" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2023년 사무실 부동산 거래가 전년 동기 대비 98.7%</a>나 감소했다.
지난주 웰스파고(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WFC#NYSE">WFC</a>)의 1분기 통화에서 CEO 찰스 W. 샤르프(Charles W. Scharf)는 해당 부문의 대출 수요 감소로 인해 상업용 부동산 수익이 전년도보다 7% 감소했다고 말했다.
그러나 이 임원은 주로 사무실 공간으로 구성된 이 부문이 2023년 4분기와 비교했을 때 큰 변화를 경험하지 못했다고 덧붙였다.
자산 관리 부문에서 가장 큰 규모의 부동산 ETF인 뱅가드 부동산 지수 펀드 (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VNQ#NYSE">VNQ</a>)는 올 초 이후로 거의 11% 하락한 수치를 기록하며, 지난 5일 동안에만 5%의 하락을 기록하고 있다.
슈왑 US REIT ETF (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SCHH#NYSE">SCHH</a>)와 리얼 에스테이트 셀렉트 섹터 SPDR 펀드 (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLRE#NYSE">XLRE</a>)는 매우 유사한 추이를 보이고 있다.
그러나 이 분야의 투자자들에게 이것이 모두 나쁜 소식은 아니다. 블랙스톤(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BX#NYSE">BX</a>)의 사장인 존 그레이(Jon Gray)는 최근 지금이 부동산 급락에 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/03/37719939/is-it-time-to-buy-the-commercial-real-estate-dip-the-worlds-biggest-private-equity-" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&#8220;저가 매수&#8221;</a>할 적절한 시기가 될 수 있다고 말했다. 자산 운용사는 연준이 조만간 금리를 인하해야 할 것이라는 점을 고려하면서 상업용 부동산의 장기적인 미래에 대해 낙관하고 있다.
그런 일이 발생하면 이러한 경기 침체로 인한 새로운 개발 공급 감소와 저렴한 차입 비용이 결합되어 업계가 다시 한 번 상승할 수 있다.
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