Innovator U.S. Equity Buffer ETF - February (BATS: BFEB)

最新ニュース Innovator U.S. Equity Buffer ETF - February (BATS:BFEB)

The Fund invests at least 80% of its net assets in FLexible EXchange Options (FLEX Options) that reference the SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (the Underlying ETF). FLEX Options are exchange-traded option contracts with uniquely customizable terms. Although guaranteed for settlement by the Options Clearing Corporation (the OCC), FLEX Options are still subject to counterparty risk with the OCC and may be less liquid than more traditional exchange-traded option contracts.

Innovator US Equity Buffer ETF - February

Innovator U.S. Equity Buffer ETF - February

Ford Motor Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>) has reportedly stopped exporting certain high-end vehicles to China due to increased tariffs.
What Happened:&nbsp;The automaker has halted shipments&nbsp;of F-150 Raptors, Mustang muscle&nbsp;cars, and Bronco SUVs from&nbsp;Michigan, as well as Lincoln&nbsp;Navigators from Kentucky, according <a href="https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/china-ford-halts-shipment-3cb51285">to</a> a report by the Wall Street Journal.
This follows China&#8217;s retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports, which have soared to as high as 150%.
A Ford spokesperson commented, &#8220;We&nbsp;have adjusted exports from the&nbsp;U.S. to China in light&nbsp;of the current tariffs,&#8221; but did not specify which models or provide a timeline.
Although Ford&#8217;s export business to China is relatively small, it remains profitable, with the company exporting its iconic models to China for nearly a decade.
Last year, Ford exported about 5,500 vehicles to China, a significant decrease from the annual average of over 20,000.
Despite halting vehicle exports, Ford continues to ship&nbsp;U.S.-built engines and transmissions to&nbsp;China.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44859742/rivian-delivers-70-fleet-vehicles-to-hellofresh-after-ending-exclusive-amazon-deal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rivian Delivers Vehicles To HelloFresh In First Non-Amazon Deal After Ending Its Exclusive Partnership</a>
Ford&#8217;s sales in China have been declining, affected by the rise of local Chinese car brands. The company sold approximately 400,000 vehicles in China last year, a sharp drop from 1.3 million in 2016.
Why It Matters: The halt in Ford&#8217;s vehicle shipments to China is a direct consequence of the ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China.
Recently,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44886711/trump-expresses-reluctance-to-escalate-china-tariffs-hints-at-trade-deal">President Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;expressed reluctance to further escalate tariffs, indicating concerns over potential trade stagnation. He also hinted at China&#8217;s attempts to negotiate a deal, suggesting a possible resolution in the future.
In response to the U.S. tariffs, China has <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/44856008/china-dismisses-trumps-tariff-numbers-game-files-wto-complaint-talks-can-only-proceed-based-on-mutual-respect">dismissed</a> what it calls a &#8220;tariff numbers game&#8221; and filed a complaint with the World Trade Organization. The Chinese government has stated that talks can only proceed based on mutual respect.
Furthermore, some Chinese firms are <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/25/04/44883166/chinese-firms-are-reportedly-using-shell-entities-to-dodge-trumps-tariffs">reportedly</a> using shell entities to circumvent the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, potentially affecting U.S. revenue collection.
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">&nbsp;following this link.</a>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Tada Images / Shutterstock.com

News

Tech

Ford Reportedly Halts Vehicle Shipments To China Amid Rising Tariffs

On Friday, President Donald Trump's White House launched a new COVID-19 website.&nbsp;
What Happened: The newly launched website sharply criticized the pandemic response by the World Health Organization (WHO), former President Joe Biden, and Dr. Anthony Fauci, who was the nation's top health official.
The development was first reported by Reuters.
The website&#8217;s banner declares, &#8220;Lab leak – the true origins of COVID-19,&#8221; and also revisits the ongoing debate about the origins of the pandemic, specifically pointing to a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/03/31152736/china-says-us-hurting-its-own-credibility-by-rehashing-covid-19-lab-leak-theory-respect-science-and">lab leak in China</a> as the most likely cause.
&#8220;Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) researchers were sick with COVID-like symptoms in the fall of 2019, months before COVID-19 was discovered at the wet market,&#8221; states one of the five points on the website.
See Also: <a href="http://benzinga.com/25/04/44888232/trumps-top-economic-adviser-kevin-hassett-says-white-house-is-exploring-options-to-fire-fed-chair-jerome-powell-the-president-and-his-team-will-continue-to-study">Trump&#8217;s Top Economic Adviser Kevin Hassett Says White House Is Exploring Options To Fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell: &#8216;The President And His Team Will Continue To Study&#8217;</a>
Why It's Important: The president's overhaul of the online resource comes against the backdrop of Trump's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44886711/trump-expresses-reluctance-to-escalate-china-tariffs-hints-at-trade-deal">intensifying trade war with China</a> and continued criticism of past administrations.
In January, a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/02/31062926/edward-snowden-on-covid-19-origin-corporations-must-never-again-be-permitted-to-police-speech">CIA spokesperson stated</a> that the agency believes the COVID-19 pandemic is more likely to have originated from a laboratory than through natural transmission, though it holds only &#8220;low confidence&#8221; in that assessment and considers both possibilities—lab and natural origins—plausible.
The Chinese government has previously said that it supports and has participated in efforts to uncover the virus&#8217;s origins, while accusing the U.S. of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/23/02/31109887/xi-jinpings-mouthpiece-warns-elon-musk-against-pushing-china-covid-19-lab-leak-theory">politicizing the issue</a>, particularly due to investigations led by American intelligence agencies.
Earlier this year, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/01/43125408/trump-signs-order-to-withdraw-us-from-who-again-cites-funding-governance-concerns">Trump also signed an executive order</a> to withdraw the U.S. from the WHO, citing concerns over governance and financial practices. This decision continues his first-term efforts to end WHO membership, a move previously reversed by Biden in 2021.
Last month, the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/03/44519638/us-department-of-health-and-human-services-aligns-with-trumps-executive-order-to-cut-10k-jobs-save-18-billion">U.S. Department of Health and Human Services</a> announced a restructuring plan aligned with Trump&#8217;s executive order, aiming to cut costs and refocus priorities.
This plan includes reducing the workforce by 10,000 employees, saving $1.8 billion annually.
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Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Shutterstock

Government

Trump's New COVID Website Takes Aim At WHO, Fauci, And Biden Over Pandemic Response, Calls Out China Lab Leak Theory

House Democrats have raised serious concerns about the Department of Government Efficiency, alleging it is building a cross-agency master database that could compromise privacy and national security.
What Happened: On Friday, Rep. Gerald Connolly (D-VA) sent a letter to the Social Security Administration's Inspector General requesting an investigation into DOGE, claiming it is collecting and consolidating massive amounts of sensitive personal data, <a href="https://www.theverge.com/tech/652215/doge-cross-agency-master-database-sensitive-information">reported</a> The Verge.
Connolly pointed to accounts from SSA whistleblowers who reported seeing DOGE engineers enter the agency's IT systems carrying backpacks loaded with laptops, each reportedly connected to different federal databases.
Their goal, according to the testimony, was to merge these systems into a single unified database.
&#8220;I have long championed efforts to improve data sharing across the government to combat improper payments and to increase government efficiency," he wrote, adding, &#8220;But any efforts to reform our current systems must be undertaken with the utmost sensitivity and concern for privacy, security, and the Social Security payments that millions of people rely on.&#8221;
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/04/44882314/tesla-ceo-elon-musk-indian-pm-modi-discuss-deeper-tech-ties-amid-model-y-test-run-in-mumbai" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Indian PM Modi Discuss Deeper Tech Ties Amid Model Y Test Run In Mumbai</a>
Why It&#8217;s Important: Earlier this month, Daniel Berulis, an IT employee at the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), stated in an affidavit that the DOGE Service team was <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44859945/whistleblower-alleges-doge-involved-in-major-cybersecurity-breach-at-us-labor-agency">granted broad access to the agency&#8217;s internal</a> systems.
The whistleblower noted that starting in March, he observed suspicious activity, including altered logging protocols and the extraction of around 10 gigabytes of sensitive material.
The data appeared to contain confidential affidavits, union-related records, and proprietary business information.
The allegations against DOGE come amid broader scrutiny of the agency.
Previously, it was reported that despite efforts to cut costs, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44778750/musks-government-efficiency-push-falls-short-as-treasury-data-shows-spending-up-sharply-under-trumps-second-term-report">federal spending has increased</a> by $154 billion since Donald Trump returned to office. This rise in spending contrasts with DOGE&#8217;s claims of $150 billion in savings through various cutbacks.
The <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44787438/gao-to-probe-sec-changes-under-trump-administration-musks-department-report">U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)</a> is also set to investigate changes at the SEC under Musk&#8217;s leadership, focusing on staff reductions and work consolidation.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Politics

Media

Elon Musk's DOGE Under Fire: House Democrats Say Agency Is Building Unlawful Master Database Of Sensitive US Data

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is undergoing a leadership change after Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent raised concerns to President Trump about the appointment of the agency&#8217;s interim head.
What Happened: Five individuals familiar with the situation revealed that Elon Musk influenced the appointment of Gary Shapley as the interim head of the IRS without consulting Bessent, according to<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/18/us/politics/irs-scott-bessent-elon-musk.html"> a</a> New York Times report on Friday.
This move bypassed Bessent, who oversees the tax agency. Musk&#8217;s Department of Government Efficiency facilitated the appointment through White House channels.
Bessent, feeling sidelined, secured Trump&#8217;s approval to reverse the decision. The new acting head is expected to be Michael Faulkender, the deputy secretary of the Treasury, until Billy Long is confirmed by the Senate for the permanent role.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44888254/elon-musks-tesla-delays-launch-of-affordable-model-y-by-several-months-report">Elon Musk&#8217;s Tesla Delays Launch Of Affordable Model Y By Several Months: Report</a>
The IRS has seen frequent leadership changes under Trump, with Shapley being appointed after Melanie Krause resigned.
Krause left following an agreement to use IRS data for deportations, a move she opposed. Shapley, a longtime IRS agent, was praised by conservatives for his stance on the Justice Department&#8217;s handling of Hunter Biden&#8217;s tax investigation.
The dispute between Musk and Bessent became public when Musk amplified a post by Laura Loomer questioning Bessent&#8217;s loyalty to Trump.
Loomer&#8217;s post accused Bessent of meeting with a &#8220;Trump hater,&#8221; which Musk called &#8220;troubling.&#8221; The individual in question was John Hope Bryant, CEO of Operation HOPE, who clarified that his meeting with Bessent did not involve political discussions.
Why It Matters: The appointment of Gary Shapley as interim IRS head follows his whistleblower testimony alleging<a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44829763/trump-to-reportedly-appoint-hunter-biden-whisteblower-gary-shapley-as-acting-irs-commissioner-hell-be-a-great-asset"> bias in the investigation of Hunter Biden</a>.
This appointment aligns with Trump&#8217;s administration&#8217;s recent moves, including the IRS&#8217;s controversial decision to<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44706330/irs-reverses-stance-agrees-to-share-undocumented-migrant-taxpayers-information-with-ice-this-is-unprecedented"> share undocumented taxpayers&#8217; information</a> with ICE, which has been criticized as part of a mass deportation effort.
Additionally, the IRS&#8217;s leadership changes occur amid speculation about the agency&#8217;s future. Grant Cardone, a prominent critic of the IRS, has suggested that<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44440924/grant-cardone-says-dont-be-surprised-when-president-trump-eliminates-the-irs"> Trump might eliminate the agency</a> altogether.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Trump Reverses Elon Musk-Influenced IRS Interim Head Appointment Following Scott Bessent's Objection: Report

Elon Musk's Tesla Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TSLA#NASDAQ">TSLA</a>) has postponed the U.S. debut of an affordable version of its Model Y SUV.
The vehicle, internally known as E41, was initially set to launch in the first half of the year.
What Happened: Three sources with knowledge of the situation revealed that the production of this lower-cost Model Y in the U.S. is now expected to start several months later than Tesla&#8217;s public plan, according to a Reuters report on Friday.
The revised timeline suggests a start from the third quarter to early next year.
While the exact cause of the delay remains unclear, two sources indicated Tesla&#8217;s goal to manufacture 250,000 units of the cheaper Model Y in the U.S. by 2026. Plans also include eventual production in China and Europe.
The delay and production targets had not been disclosed before. Tesla&#8217;s upcoming earnings report on Tuesday is expected to address these plans.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/44825160/whats-going-on-with-lucid-group-stock-on-tuesday">What&#8217;s Going On With Lucid Group Stock On Tuesday? &#8211; Benzinga</a>
Why It Matters: The delay in launching the affordable Model Y comes amidst Tesla&#8217;s plans to introduce a<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43616177/tesla-exec-says-performance-variant-seven-seat-interior-on-new-model-y-will-launch-later-this-year"> Performance variant of the refreshed Model Y</a> later this year, as stated by company executive Lars Moravy.
The<a href="https://benzinga.com/tech/25/01/43183608/tesla-launches-refreshed-model-y-in-us-with-25-price-hike-full-self-driving-included"> refreshed Model Y</a>, launched in January, is part of Tesla&#8217;s strategy to maintain its competitive edge in the electric vehicle market.
In March, Tesla offered significant<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44064638/tesla-offers-deep-discounts-of-up-to-7950-on-the-model-y-as-the-ev-giant-gears-up-to-deliver-the-refreshed-version"> discounts on the older Model Y</a> versions, with reductions reaching up to $7,950, as the company prepared to deliver the refreshed variant. These discounts were seen as a move to clear inventory and make way for the new models.
Additionally, Tesla plans to refresh its premium<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43908919/tesla-to-launch-refreshed-model-s-x-later-this-year-says-senior-exec"> Model S and Model X</a> vehicles later this year, indicating a broader strategy to update its lineup and attract more customers.
Check out more of Benzinga&#8217;s Future Of Mobility coverage by<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility"> following this link.</a>
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: Brandon Woyshnis / Shutterstock.com

Equities

Markets

TSLA

Elon Musk's Tesla Delays Launch Of Affordable Model Y By Several Months: Report

On Friday, White House National Economic Council chair Kevin Hassett said the Donald Trump administration is exploring <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/04/44861571/donald-trump-blasts-too-late-and-wrong-fed-chair-powell-but-polymarket-traders-doubt-his-termination-will-come-fast-enough">ways to remove</a> Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell.
What Happened: Hassett told reporters at the White House that the &#8220;President and his team will continue to study,&#8221; whether it&#8217;s possible to fire Powell, <a href="https://thehill.com/business/5256173-trump-exploring-firing-fed-chair/">reported</a> The Hill.
The legal framework surrounding Powell's position complicates any potential firing. According to a 90-year-old Supreme Court precedent, a Federal Reserve chair can only be removed for misconduct or severe neglect of office.
Powell has repeatedly stated that he cannot be legally removed from office and has insisted he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/25/02/43493701/fed-chair-jerome-powell-faces-trumps-pressure-the-president-cant-fire-me-as-interest-rates-hold-steady-at-4-25-4-5">would serve his full term</a>.
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/25/04/44882314/tesla-ceo-elon-musk-indian-pm-modi-discuss-deeper-tech-ties-amid-model-y-test-run-in-mumbai">Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Indian PM Modi Discuss Deeper Tech Ties Amid Model Y Test Run In Mumbai</a>
Why It&#8217;s Important: Hassett's comments followed a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/04/44862662/trump-pressures-fed-as-ecb-delivers-7th-straight-rate-cut">series of public attacks</a> from President Trump, who has been increasingly critical of Powell, particularly over the Fed's refusal to cut interest rates.
Trump's anger toward Powell intensified this week, culminating in a Thursday morning post on social media where the president expressed his frustration, saying he couldn&#8217;t wait for Powell&#8217;s &#8220;termination.&#8221;
This followed <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/04/44848474/fed-chair-powell-says-tariffs-lead-to-temporary-rise-in-inflation">Powell's warnings that Trump's trade</a> tariffs could fuel inflation and cause a slowdown in economic growth, a scenario Trump has said would prevent the Fed from making the necessary rate cuts.
The potential dismissal of Powell has raised concerns about the stability of U.S. financial markets. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44882256/trumps-threat-to-fire-powell-could-shake-us-financial-markets">Investment strategists</a> have warned that such a move could undermine the independence of the Federal Reserve and cause significant market turbulence.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) has also cautioned that firing Powell could lead to a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44883756/warren-foresees-market-turmoil-if-trump-dismisses-feds-powell-if-powell-can-be-fired-by-trump-it-will-crash-markets">stock market collapse</a>.
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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a> and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
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Federal Reserve

Trump's Top Economic Adviser Kevin Hassett Says White House Is Exploring Options To Fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell: 'The President And His Team Will Continue To Study'

XRP has experienced a significant sell-off over the past few weeks after peaking in early January and reaching a new all-time high of $3.40 per token. The last time XRP traded above the $3 mark was in January 2018.
As of April 10, XRP is trading at $1.96.
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XRP has experienced a significant sell-off over the past few weeks after peaking in early January and reaching a new all-time high of $3.40 per token. The last time XRP traded above the $3 mark was in January 2018.
What XRP Is Used For and the Tech Behind It
XRP is mainly used for moving money across borders quickly and cheaply. Ripple built it to help banks and payment providers settle international transactions in seconds instead of days. Instead of needing to hold a bunch of different currencies, XRP can be used as a bridge—especially in places where liquidity is thin.
It runs on the XRP Ledger, which isn't like Bitcoin or Ethereum. There's no mining involved. It uses its own consensus mechanism that lets it handle about 1,500 transactions per second, with super low fees. It's fast, efficient, and doesn't chew up energy like proof-of-work chains do.
Trending: It&#8217;s no wonder Jeff Bezos holds over $250 million in art — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/masterworks">this alternative asset has outpaced the S&amp;P 500 since 1995, delivering an average annual return of 11.4%. Here&#8217;s how everyday investors are getting started.</a>
What's With The Drop?
Over the last few weeks, XRP has declined more than 40% after topping out in January. The primary cause of this drop—though you can spin a lot of different narratives around it—is the broader derisking in the U.S. economy, which has triggered a global risk-off sentiment.
Fundamentally, nothing has really changed with XRP. This pullback is largely driven by a bearish macro outlook. Compared to other altcoins, XRP has actually held up relatively well—thanks to stronger fundamentals and institutional backing.&nbsp;
See Also: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">invest pre-IPO from $0.60 per share now</a>.
Key Levels to Watch
In the weeks and months ahead, it will be crucial to monitor key levels to get a better sense of whether the market is going to continue dropping, reverse, or simply consolidate for a while.
On the daily chart, XRP is in a clear bearish trend. There was a moment where it looked like a potential breakout to the upside, but that move was entirely news-driven—sparked by <a href="https://x.com/DegenerateNews/status/1896221266241356274">Trump's post </a>about a potential "Crypto Reserve," in which XRP was included.
There are two short-term support levels I'd keep an eye on, both of which have shown recent signs of demand. The first is the $1.75 level, and the second is the $1.40s—a prior area where price accumulated back in November.
With these levels in mind, I'd watch the trend. It's a common saying, but the trend truly is your friend. Currently, in most risk-on markets—especially U.S. equities—the trend is bearish.
If you're an investor or trader looking for a bullish case, you'd want to start seeing XRP fail to trade towards old lows and begin forming higher lows in the market. This would not only set up a potential long move but also possibly shift the negative sentiment that has been prevailing in the crypto markets for a while now.
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Personal Finance

XRP's Correction Explained: Key Levels, Sentiment Shifts, and What's Next

Companies with a long history of paying dividends and consistently hiking them remain appealing to income-focused investors. Merck, Black Hills, and Virtus Investment Partners have rewarded shareholders for years and recently announced dividend increases. These companies currently offer dividend yields of around 4-6%.
Merck
Merck (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MRK#NYSE">MRK</a>) is a healthcare company that manufactures pharmaceutical products to treat various conditions in many therapeutic areas, including cardiometabolic disease, cancer and infections.&nbsp;
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Merck has raised its dividends every year for the last 14 years. According to its most recent dividend hike announcement on Nov. 19, the company increased the quarterly payout from $0.77 to $0.81 per share, equal to an annual figure of $3.24 per share. The current dividend yield on the stock is 4.09%.&nbsp;
Merck&#8217;s annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $64.17 billion. In its Q4 2024 earnings report on Feb. 4, it posted revenues of $15.62 billion and EPS of $1.72. Both figures beat the Street estimates.
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Black Hills
Black Hills Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BKH#NYSE">BKH</a>) operates as an electric and natural gas utility company in the U.S.&nbsp;
Black Hills has raised its dividends every year for the last 55 years. In its most recent dividend hike announcement on Jan. 24, it increased the quarterly payout from $0.65 to $0.676 per share, which is equal to an annual figure of $2.70 per share. Currently, the dividend yield on the stock is 4.63%.
Black Hills&#8217; annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $2.13 billion. As per the company&#8217;s Q4 2024 earnings release on Feb. 5, it posted revenues of $597.10 million, missing the consensus of $944 million, while EPS of $1.37 came in above the consensus estimate of $1.34.
How to put $100 in your retirement fund each month with Black Hills stock? Check out this <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/01/43313814/how-to-put-100-in-your-retirement-fund-each-month-with-black-hills-stock">article by Benzinga</a> to learn more.
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Virtus Investment Partners
Virtus Investment Partners (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRTS#NYSE">VRTS</a>) is a publicly owned investment manager. The firm primarily provides its services to individual and institutional clients.&nbsp;
Virtus has raised its dividends consecutively for the past seven years. In its most recent dividend hike announcement on Aug. 15, the company's board increased its quarterly payout by 18% to $2.25 per share, which is equal to $9 per share annually. More recently, in its dividend announcement on Feb. 27, the company maintained the payout at the same level. The current dividend yield on the stock is 5.95%.
Its annual revenue as of Dec. 31 stood at $902.82 million. In its most recent earnings release on Jan. 31, the company posted Q4 2024 revenues of $233.49 million and EPS of $7.50. Both figures came in above the consensus estimates.
Merck, Black Hills, and Virtus Investment Partners are good choices for investors seeking reliable passive income. Their dividend yields of around 4-6% and long history of consistent hikes make them attractive to income-focused investors.
Check out this <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/04/44778984/why-regency-centers-cme-group-and-trinity-industries-are-winners-for-passive-income">article by Benzinga</a> for three more stocks offering high dividend yields.
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Image: Shutterstock

VRTS

Why Merck, Black Hills, And Virtus Investment Partners Are Winners For Passive Income

It's not something most people expect to find while cleaning out a loved one's home, but it happens. One listener of the "<a href="https://omny.fm/shows/suze-ormans-women-and-money/ask-kt-suze-anything-revisiting-can-i-give-my-child-money-and-get-a-tax-deduction">Women &amp; Money</a>" podcast recently asked financial expert Suze Orman what to do after discovering $200,000 in cash stashed away by her deceased father.
The listener explained that her father didn't trust banks and saved his paychecks in cash, hiding them around the house over time. Now, she's faced with a major question: What's the right way to handle this money?
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Here's how Suze Orman responded.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Step 1: Don't Let the Money Sit in Cash</h2>
Orman began by stressing the opportunity cost of keeping such a large sum in cash. "You're missing out on about $10,000 a year currently in interest," she noted.
Letting the money sit at home not only limits its earning potential — it also puts it at risk of theft or loss. That's why <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/03/44424162/its-a-really-really-bad-idea-suze-orman-warns-58-year-old-against-using-a-401k-to-buy-a-lifetime">Orman</a> believes the safest next step involves depositing it. But that's not as simple as walking into a bank with stacks of cash.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Step 2: Talk to the Estate Lawyer</h2>
Before heading to the bank, Orman recommends contacting the attorney handling the estate. If there's no lawyer involved, she advises hiring one, even for a short consultation. They can guide you on how to legally deposit the money and ensure everything is above board.
Why the caution? Large deposits — especially over $10,000 — trigger federal reporting requirements. Banks are required to report these transactions to government agencies as part of <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42266678/coinbase-ceo-brian-armstrong-failed-anti-money-laundering-regulations-sounds-like-a-job-for-doge">anti-money-laundering rules</a>.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Step 3: Be Transparent With the Bank</h2>
Orman suggests going to a bank where either you or your loved one had an account. Bring documentation like the death certificate, the will or trust, and any paperwork that shows you're the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/01/42803339/keep-it-separate-suze-orman-warns-listener-about-protecting-her-childrens-inheritance-when-buying-a-home-with-a-new-spouse">beneficiary of the estate</a>.
"Just come clean," she advises. Explain how and where the money was found, and that you're trying to handle it responsibly. The bank may have questions, but full transparency can help avoid future issues.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Step 4: Deposit the Money Into the Estate Account</h2>
Rather than depositing the funds directly into your personal account, Orman recommends opening a bank account in the name of the estate. This keeps everything tied to the deceased person's financial affairs and can simplify the probate process, if applicable.
Once the cash is deposited into the estate account, it becomes part of the official estate assets. From there, you or the executor can distribute it according to the terms of the will or trust — or as directed by the probate court.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Taxes Could Be Involved</h2>
Orman also cautioned that depending on your situation, the IRS might treat the money as part of the estate and expect a portion in taxes. Or, they might accept your explanation and move on. Either way, working with a lawyer and possibly a tax professional can help ensure you follow the right steps.
If you find a large sum of cash in a loved one's home, don't panic — but don't ignore it either. Follow Orman's lead: seek legal guidance, stay transparent, and take the right steps to protect yourself and the money.
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What Would You Do If You Found $200,000 Cash In A Deceased Loved One's Home? Here's What Suze Orman Would Do

Marsh &amp; McLennan Cos (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MMC#NYSE">MMC</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 6.83% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 14.73%. Currently, Marsh &amp; McLennan Cos has a market capitalization of $108.47 billion. 
Buying $100 In MMC: If an investor had bought $100 of MMC stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $1,560.78 today based on a price of $220.07 for MMC at the time of writing.
<h3>Marsh &amp; McLennan Cos's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745019912_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.

Trading Ideas

If You Invested $100 In This Stock 20 Years Ago, You Would Have This Much Today

Quest Diagnostics (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DGX#NYSE">DGX</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 291.15% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 305.18%. Currently, Quest Diagnostics has a market capitalization of $18.18 billion. 
Buying $1000 In DGX: If an investor had bought $1000 of DGX stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $963,529.41 today based on a price of $163.80 for DGX at the time of writing.
<h3>Quest Diagnostics's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745019021_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 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

Intuitive Surgical (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ISRG#NASDAQ">ISRG</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 20 years by 18.21% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 26.1%. Currently, Intuitive Surgical has a market capitalization of $172.95 billion. 
Buying $100 In ISRG: If an investor had bought $100 of ISRG stock 20 years ago, it would be worth $9,987.72 today based on a price of $482.74 for ISRG at the time of writing.
<h3>Intuitive Surgical's Performance Over Last 20 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745018120_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.

ISRG

$100 Invested In This Stock 20 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

One Reddit user just gave the economy subreddit a glimpse into what panic looks like in real time.
In the popular r/Economy <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/economy/comments/1jyig4s/ok_i_sold_all_of_my_holdings_and_am_100_cash/">subreddit</a>, the user said they sold all of their holdings and are &#8220;100% cash until 2026 midterms because this administration is full of 6-year-olds.&#8221;
They added, &#8220;All of my personal investments have turned into 100% cash and sold when the market was very low (I'm still kicking myself in the ass everyday for doing that).&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Market Timing vs. Market Patience</h2>
Despite the regret, they said they couldn't handle the volatility anymore, even though they were invested in a broadly diversified fund: &#8220;I feel like I'm day trading Vanguard Total Stock ETF. It's just so horrendous.&#8221;
Reactions flooded in, and the general consensus was that selling low and holding cash isn't the win the user might think it is.
&#8220;You want to buy more when the market is down, not sell,&#8221; one user said.
Another pointed out the trap of market timing: &#8220;If you think you timed the top, now you gotta time the bottom. Probably gonna get mad if the market goes up.&#8221;
Several commenters also noted how common this mistake is, especially among younger investors. &#8220;Selling in 2009 is my greatest regret,&#8221; one user shared. &#8220;The best buying opportunities always look the most awful and scary.&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cash Isn&#8217;t as Safe as It Feels</h2>
While the original poster parked their money in a high-yield savings account, multiple users reminded them that cash isn't immune to erosion.
&#8220;The dollar <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/04/44768702/foreigners-dump-the-dollar-gold-and-yen-act-as-safe-haven-jpmorgan-helps-stock-market-cooler-ppi">isn&#8217;t safe</a> right now,&#8221; one comment read. &#8220;You&#8217;re protected against market volatility but <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/04/44764554/consumer-sentiment-crashes-to-3-year-lows-as-inflation-expectations-spike-to-1981-highs">inflation</a> is going to make your cash worth less than other, more safe investment choices.&#8221;
A few recommended alternatives like <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/treasuries/25/04/44774759/from-boring-to-booming-how-treasury-etfs-are-beating-the-bear">Treasury ETFs</a>, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-cd-rates">CDs</a>, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44259396/short-term-bond-etfs-see-record-inflows-amid-market-turmoil-3-funds-that-led-the-surge">short-term investment grade bonds</a> and even <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44652150/sit-out-market-drama-with-these-3-dividend-funds">dividend-focused ETFs</a>.
&#8220;Money Market or cash/dividends ETF. Inflation is still up which means returns on cash accounts with interest given are currently a relatively safe place to park money,&#8221; one user wrote.
Trending: Hasbro, MGM, and Skechers trust this AI marketing firm — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/rad-intel">invest pre-IPO from $0.60 per share now</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Politics, Tariffs and Uncertainty</h2>
Politics were central to the original post, and the comment section didn't shy away either.
Many mentioned President Donald Trump's tariff policies and their ripple effects on markets. One user explained, &#8220;[Trump] <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44779286/trumps-tariff-pause-stirs-markets-goldman-sachs-reverses-recession-call-and-more-this-week-in-economy">paused tariffs for 90 days</a> to all the countries (except China) who were selling US bonds on the open market, causing the interest rates to rise.&#8221;
Another summed up the frustration with policy-driven volatility: &#8220;Markets dislike uncertainty. As you can see from these comments, certainty is in short supply. Nobody knows. Do your best.&#8221;
Some took it further, blaming both sides of the aisle. &#8220;This isn't going to be a quick recession like COVID. We have a few problems we have to unwind and I'm pessimistic there is anyone capable of leading us out of this, Republicans or Democrats. It's scary out there.&#8221;
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">So Was It a Bad Move?</h2>
Most think so. &#8220;If you hadn&#8217;t sold you would have lost nothing,&#8221; one said. &#8220;Investing by your politics is foolish.&#8221;
Others were more empathetic. &#8220;There is no wrong move if it gives you peace of mind,&#8221; a top commenter added. &#8220;You might miss out on some gains. That's irrelevant if the stress and potential losses can alter your life plans.&#8221;
Still, the original poster might be left with the worst of both worlds: locking in losses from selling low and watching inflation chip away at their savings.
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'This Administration Is Full Of 6-Year-Olds'—Investor Says They 'Sold All Of Their Holdings' And Is '100% Cash Until The 2026 Midterms'

OSI Systems (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/OSIS#NASDAQ">OSIS</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 3.97% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 14.24%. Currently, OSI Systems has a market capitalization of $3.26 billion. 
Buying $100 In OSIS: If an investor had bought $100 of OSIS stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $647.95 today based on a price of $194.19 for OSIS at the time of writing.
<h3>OSI Systems's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745017216_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.

OSIS

Here's How Much $100 Invested In OSI Systems 15 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

Fastenal (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FAST#NASDAQ">FAST</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 15 years by 2.18% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 12.45%. Currently, Fastenal has a market capitalization of $46.88 billion. 
Buying $1000 In FAST: If an investor had bought $1000 of FAST stock 15 years ago, it would be worth $5,806.41 today based on a price of $81.73 for FAST at the time of writing.
<h3>Fastenal's Performance Over Last 15 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745016311_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.

FAST

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

Elon Musk is 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">richest man in the world</a>. Not marginally — dramatically. Even 1% of his net worth is more than most people could spend in multiple lifetimes.
But in a 2022 post on X, Musk pushed back on the idea that Tesla operates like a traditional hierarchy.
"Everyone eats same food, uses same restrooms, etc — no executive chef or other ivory tower stuff," he wrote. "There shouldn't be this workers vs management two-class system. Everyone is a worker."
<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">Everyone eats same food, uses same restrooms, etc – no executive chef or other ivory tower stuff. There shouldn't be this workers vs management two-class system. Everyone is a worker.
&mdash; Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1532403096680288256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
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Now in 2025, and Musk is still fighting to reinstate a $56 billion Tesla compensation package that was struck down last year by a Delaware court.&nbsp;
The court's decision was grounded in findings that the package was negotiated by directors lacking independence from Musk and that shareholders were misled by flawed disclosures during the approval process. Chancellor Kathaleen McCormick described the <a href="https://www.reuters.com/legal/judge-rules-favor-plaintiffs-challenging-musks-tesla-pay-package-2024-01-30/">compensation as an "unfathomable sum"</a> and highlighted the undue influence Musk had over the board, noting close personal ties with several directors .
Meanwhile, factory workers at Tesla's plants in Texas and Nevada are reportedly earning as little as $22 an hour. Even at the top of the pay scale, hourly wages max out around $39, <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/how-much-tesla-factory-workers-paid-per-hour-us">Business Insider</a> reported last year.&nbsp;
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According to Tesla's proxy statement, Musk appeared to take home nothing in 2022—at least on paper. The company reported his total compensation as zero for the year, which technically brought the CEO-to-median-worker pay ratio down to 0:1.&nbsp;
But that snapshot doesn't tell the whole story. Just one year earlier, in 2021, Musk exercised a massive batch of stock options that were set to expire, realizing gains of $23.45 billion. <a href="https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1318605/000156459022024064/tsla-def14a_20220804.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com">Tesla's filings show</a> his "total realized compensation" for 2021 was $734,762,107, and based on the median employee salary of around $40,000 that year, the pay ratio came out to 18,043 to 1.&nbsp;
Musk's supporters argue that his compensation was performance-based and tied to milestones that drove massive value for shareholders. Critics point out that while Tesla's valuation soared, the workers powering its growth haven't seen the same rewards — and in some cases, have even seen wages reduced.
The legal battle over Musk's record-breaking pay is ongoing. But so is the conversation about whether <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44778739/elon-musks-political-fallout-fuels-record-dump-of-used-tesla-cars-now-selling-for-thousands-below-market-value">Tesla really operates</a> without a two-class system — or whether that idea only works in theory, not on the assembly line.
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Elon Musk Fights For 'Unfathomable' $56 Billion Tesla Payday As Factory Workers Earn $22/Hour — But Says: 'There Shouldn't Be a Two-Class System'

T-Mobile US (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TMUS#NASDAQ">TMUS</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 12.93% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 22.5%. Currently, T-Mobile US has a market capitalization of $298.75 billion. 
Buying $1000 In TMUS: If an investor had bought $1000 of TMUS stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $7,686.71 today based on a price of $261.66 for TMUS at the time of writing.
<h3>T-Mobile US's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745015415_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.

TMUS

$1000 Invested In T-Mobile US 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth This Much Today

In the current market session, Norfolk Southern Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NSC#NYSE">NSC</a>) price is at $219.84, after a 2.71% spike. However, over the past month, the stock fell by 5.14%, and in the past year, by 10.13%. Shareholders might be interested in knowing whether the stock is undervalued, even if the company is performing up to par in the current session. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745013621_0.png" alt="Past Year Chart" />

<h3>Norfolk Southern P/E Compared to Competitors</h3>
The P/E ratio is used by long-term shareholders to assess the company's market performance against aggregate market data, historical earnings, and the industry at large. A lower P/E could indicate that shareholders do not expect the stock to perform better in the future or it could mean that the company is undervalued. 
Compared to the aggregate P/E ratio of the 33.44 in the Ground Transportation industry, Norfolk Southern Inc. has a lower P/E ratio of 18.5. Shareholders might be inclined to think that the stock might perform worse than it's industry peers. It's also possible that the stock is undervalued. 

<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745013621_1.png" alt="Guage" />

In conclusion, the price-to-earnings ratio is a useful metric for analyzing a company's market performance, but it has its limitations. While a lower P/E can indicate that a company is undervalued, it can also suggest that shareholders do not expect future growth. Additionally, the P/E ratio should not be used in isolation, as other factors such as industry trends and business cycles can also impact a company's stock price. Therefore, investors should use the P/E ratio in conjunction with other financial metrics and qualitative analysis to make informed investment decisions.

Intraday Update

Price Over Earnings Overview: Norfolk Southern

Raymond James Finl (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RJF#NYSE">RJF</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 5 years by 12.68% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 26.71%. Currently, Raymond James Finl has a market capitalization of $27.35 billion. 
Buying $100 In RJF: If an investor had bought $100 of RJF stock 5 years ago, it would be worth $321.02 today based on a price of $133.46 for RJF at the time of writing.
<h3>Raymond James Finl's Performance Over Last 5 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745013613_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 $100 Invested In Raymond James Finl 5 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

Tyler Technologies (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TYL#NYSE">TYL</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 6.34% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 15.91%. Currently, Tyler Technologies has a market capitalization of $24.72 billion. 
Buying $1000 In TYL: If an investor had bought $1000 of TYL stock 10 years ago, it would be worth $4,468.65 today based on a price of $573.50 for TYL at the time of writing.
<h3>Tyler Technologies's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2025/1745011811_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.

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