Democratic Large Cap Core ETF (NASDAQ: DEMZ)

最新ニュース Democratic Large Cap Core ETF (NASDAQ:DEMZ)

Democratic Large Cap Core ETF

Technology

Financial Services

Industrials

Consumer Defensive

Healthcare

Consumer Cyclical

Real Estate

Communication Services

Other

The Fund uses a passive management (or indexing) approach in seeking to achieve its investment objective. The Index was developed by Reflection Asset Management, LLC, the Funds investment adviser and index provider (the Adviser). The Index is a subset of the S&P 500 Index (the S&P 500) designed to provide exposure to companies that make political contributions to Democratic Party candidates and political action committees above a certain threshold. Under normal circumstances, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its net assets (plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes) in securities included in the Index. This policy may be changed upon 60 days prior written notice to shareholders

Apple Inc

Loblaw Cos Ltd - Pfund Sr B

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Microsoft Corp.

Nvidia Corp.

Amphenol Corp. Class A

International Business Machines Corp.

Meta Platforms, Inc.

Colgate-Palmolive Co

Danaher Corp.

Stryker Corp

Kimco Realty Corp

Alphabet, Inc. - Cl. A

Kla Corp.

Automatic Data Processing Inc Com

News

HIVE

HIVE Digital Mines 102 Bitcoin In April, Surpasses 7.3 EH/s With Accelerated Paraguay Expansion, Targets 11.5 EH/s By June And Achieves 10% Hashrate Growth

Future Fund LLC's managing partner, Gary Black, thinks ride-hailing service Lyft Inc.'s (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LYFT#NASDAQ">LYFT</a>) performance, as well as increased adoption of AVs, warrants more investment in the company.
What Happened: Following Lyft's Earnings Call, Black took to the social media platform X to share his thoughts on the company's results for Q1 2025 on Thursday.
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24LYFT&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$LYFT</a> +8% AH after delivering higher than expected EBITDA, FCF, and turning a surprise earnings profit (+$.01 vs -$.02 exp loss). 1Q Gross bookings and # Rides beat. 2Q gross bookings and EBITDA were in line. LYFT announced a larger than expected share buyback ($750M, $500M in…
&mdash; Gary Black (@garyblack00) <a href="https://twitter.com/garyblack00/status/1920583819750449286?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
"$LYFT +8% AH after delivering higher than expected EBITDA, FCF, and turning a surprise earnings profit (+$.01 vs -$.02 exp loss)," Black said. The company beat Wall Street expectations on EPS, but missed out on quarterly revenue estimates as Lyft announced $1.45 billion in revenue.
"LYFT trades at just 14.0x FY'25 Adj EPS and 10.4x FY'26 est eps while growing bookings, revs, and trips at 12% and EBITDA growth of 25%," Black said in the post.
"Both $UBER and $LYFT seem worthy of increased investment given the high probability of cost per mile reductions as autonomous vehicles become more commonplace," he shared.
Why It Matters: The news comes in as Lyft <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/buybacks/25/05/45302278/lyft-shares-drive-higher-after-mixed-q1-report-stock-buyback-program-raised-to-750-million">announced surprise results </a>during its earnings call as the company turned in a 1-cent EPS, which beat analyst expectations.
The company's board also authorized an increase to its stock repurchase program to $750 million, of which Lyft intends to utilize $500 million within the next 12 months.
Lyft also recently acquired European <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44841871/lyft-expands-to-europe-with-e175m-freenow-acquisition-targets-bookings-by-e1b-annually">ride-sharing service Freenow</a> in a cash deal that's worth over $197 million. The deal would allow Lyft to operate in over 9 European countries.
Elsewhere, rival Uber Technologies Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>) is increasing its presence in the autonomous driving sector as the company signed deals <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45162888/uber-heats-up-robotaxi-battle-against-tesla-waymo-with-may-mobility-deal">with May Mobility </a>as well as Volkswagen Group (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VWAGY#OTC">VWAGY</a>) to operate their vehicles on its platform.
LYFT has poor Momentum and Value scores, but scores well on the Growth metric. For more such insights, sign up for<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"> Benzinga Edge</a> today!
Check out more of Benzinga's Future Of Mobility coverage by<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/mobility"> following this link.</a>
Read Next:
<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45283323/gary-black-thinks-uber-could-have-an-advantage-over-elon-musk-and-tesla-in-the-robotaxi-race">Uber Could Outpace Elon Musk&#8217;s Tesla In Robotaxi Race, Says TSLA Bull Gary Black</a></li>
</ul>
Image Via Shutterstock

Earnings

Tech

General

LYFT

UBER

VWAGY

Gary Black Bullish On Lyft, Sees Investment Opportunity As Uber Rival Surprises With Q1 Profit And AV Adoption Plans

IDACORP will not initially receive any proceeds from the sale of shares of its common stock by the forward sellers (or their respective affiliates) to the underwriters. If IDACORP elects physical settlement of the forward sale agreements, it expects to use any net proceeds for general corporate purposes, which may include capital expenditures.

IDACORP Prices Upsized Public Offering Of ~4.5M Common Shares At $111 Each

Highlights
<ul>
<li>Total number of Bitcoin mined during 2024 was 755, or 2.1 Bitcoin per day (2023: 1,760, or 4.8 Bitcoin per day).</li>
<li>Revenues of $47.1 million (2023: $50.6 million), a decrease of 7% from 2023, driven primarily by the reduced hashprice resulting from the Bitcoin halving.</li>
<li>Mining margin of 33%, down from 43% in 2023. Similar to revenue, this decrease was largely attributable to the reduced hashprice resulting from the Bitcoin halving in April 2024.</li>
<li>Reduced non-mining operating costs by 34% in 2024 compared to the prior year.</li>
<li>Adjusted EBITDA of $5.7 million, compared to $7.7 million in 2023.</li>
<li>Net loss of $55.1 million, compared to a net loss of $34.6 million in 2023. The net loss was primarily the result of a $31.5 million asset impairment, $15.0 million of amortization and $6.8 million of interest expense.</li>
<li>Reduced interest expense by 41%, as a result of fully repaying the Galaxy debt during 2024.</li>
<li>Net debt (cash less debt obligations) was reduced by $24.1 million from $55.1 million at 31 December 2023 to $31.0 million at 31 December 2024.</li>
</ul>

ARBK

Argo Blockchain FY24 Revenue $47.1M Down From $50.6M YoY, Net Loss $55.1M Down From $34.6M YoY

Alex Mashinsky, the founder and former CEO of the now-collapsed cryptocurrency lender&nbsp;Celsius Network, was sentenced to a 12-year prison term for securities and commodities fraud on Thursday.
What Happened: The sentencing was delivered&nbsp;by U.S. District Judge John&nbsp;Koeltl in Manhattan, according to a Reuters report. Federal prosecutors charged Mashinsky with deceiving customers about the safety of Celsius and artificially boosting the value of the exchange&#8217;s native token, Celsius (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">CEL</a>).
The prosecution had pushed for a minimum 20-year prison term, claiming it was a &#8220;just punishment&#8221; for Mashinsky&#8217;s actions that caused thousands of victims and led to billions in losses. They said Mashinsky personally profited more than $48 million from the scheme.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/25/05/45294428/wall-street-rallies-after-us-seals-first-trade-deal-you-better-go-out-and-buy-stock-trump-says" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wall Street Rallies After US Seals First Trade Deal: &#8216;You Better Go Out And Buy Stock,&#8217; Trump Says U.S. Stocks Rally as Trump Strikes Trade Deal With U.K.; Bitcoin Tops $100K</a>
Mashinsky had proposed a sentence of&nbsp;one year and one day, expressing regret and a wish to reconcile with&nbsp;his family and former Celsius&nbsp;customers, the report said. His sentence also&nbsp;includes three years of supervised&nbsp;release and a $48.4 million&nbsp;forfeiture.
The sentencing follows his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42307121/celsius-network-founder-alex-mashinsky-pleads-guity-to-two-counts-of-fraud-including-manipulating-in-house-cryptos-price">admission of guilt</a> to two counts of fraud in December 2024. Mashinsky admitted to&nbsp;providing Celsius customers with "false comfort" by falsely claiming in a 2021 interview that Celsius had received regulatory approval for its "Earn" program.
His arrest in 2023 followed the collapse of Celsius and a Department of Justice inquiry into the company's downfall. The company applied for bankruptcy protection in 2022. 
However, the firm exited bankruptcy in early 2024, beginning a $3 billion repayment to its creditors. 
Photo Courtesy: ARTEMENKO VALENTYN on Shutterstock.com
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/21/10/23673989/heres-how-one-crypto-investor-made-more-than-5b-with-shiba-inu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Here&#8217;s How One Crypto Investor Made More Than $5B With Shiba Inu</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/apis?utm_source=benzinga.com&amp;utm_campaign=article-bottom" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"></a>

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

Cryptocurrency

Markets

$CEL

Celsius Founder Alex Mashinsky Gets 12-Year Prison Sentence For Securities and Commodities Fraud

Macro Economic Events

Econ #s

Economics

Reported Earlier, China Trade Balance (USD) For April 96.18B Vs. 97.00B Est.; 102.64B Prior

Reported Earlier, China Imports (YoY) For April -0.2% Vs. -5.9% Est; -4.3% Prior

Reported Earlier, China Exports (YoY) For April 8.1% Vs. 1.9% Est.; 12.4% Prior

BBJP

WisdomTree Trust Japan Total Dividend Fund

Reported Earlier, Japan Household Spending (MoM) For March 0.4% Vs. -0.5% Est.; 3.5% Prior

Reported Earlier, Japan Household Spending (YoY) For March 2.1% Vs. 0.2% Est.; -0.5% Prior

Coinbase Global Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) CEO Brian Armstrong, on Thursday, touched on the wisdom of traditional banks launching their own stablecoins in light of their foray into the cryptocurrency industry.
What Happened: During the first quarter earnings call, Armstrong was asked about the growing interest of traditional banks in the cryptocurrency industry after regulatory relaxations. 
The top executive acknowledged the increased momentum, stating that Coinbase has held talks and forged partnerships with some players.
Armstrong specifically mentioned some institutions wanting to develop their own dollar-pegged stablecoins, an idea with which he differed.
&#8220;Our view is that that's not necessarily the best path because we think stablecoins have network effects. You want interoperability with other financial institutions to be able to settle payments and do all kinds of things,&#8221; Armstrong said.
He suggested that banks should consider partnering with existing stablecoins like USD Coin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/">USDC</a>). 
Note that Coinbase has an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/23/08/33972625/coinbase-acquires-equity-stake-in-circle-a-new-era-for-usdc">equity stake</a> in Circle, the issuing company behind USDC. In fact, USDC was launched by Centre, a consortium formed through a joint venture between&nbsp;Circle&nbsp;and&nbsp;Coinbase.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45295626/bitcoin-breaks-100000-ethereum-xrp-dogecoin-roar-10-higher-what-do-experts-predict-next" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bitcoin Breaks $100,000, Ethereum, XRP, Dogecoin Roar 10% Higher </a>
Why It Matters: Barriers to TradFi&#8217;s entry into the space <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/01/43181875/sec-repeals-sab-121-policy-that-restricted-banks-from-providing-custody-services-for-bitcoin-crypto-mom-says-bye-bye">have been eased</a>, with directives preventing them from custodying cryptocurrencies getting repealed after President Donald Trump took over.
This development follows&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45302422/coinbase-q1-earnings-highlights-revenue-eps-miss-2025">Coinbase&#8217;s first-quarter earnings report</a>, where the company missed revenue and EPS expectations. 
Before the earnings,&nbsp;Coinbase <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45287050/coinbase-acquires-deribit-in-2-9b-deal-to-expand-crypto-derivatives-business">announced the acquisition</a> of Deribit, a crypto options exchange, for approximately $2.9 billion, marking the firm&#8217;s largest push into the global crypto derivatives market. 
Price Action:&nbsp; Shares of Coinbase fell 2.67% in after-hours trading after closing 5.06% higher at $206.50 during Tuesday's regular trading session, according to&nbsp;<a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard?_gl=1&#x2A;380nj0&#x2A;_ga&#x2A;MTEyOTAyOTcxMy4xNzEzMzY0NTYy&#x2A;_ga_V7ZK73W7N0&#x2A;MTcxNDk4MzIzMi42LjEuMTcxNDk4OTE0Ni4wLjAuMA.." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">data from Benzinga Pro</a>. 
As of this writing, the stock ranked high on growth, a measure of a stock's combined historical expansion in earnings and revenue across multiple periods.&nbsp; To check how other cryptocurrency-related stocks stack up against COIN, visit <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="502" height="193" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08233952/Screenshot-2025-05-09-090934.png" alt="" class="wp-image-909408" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08233952/Screenshot-2025-05-09-090934.png 502w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08233952/Screenshot-2025-05-09-090934-300x115.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 502px) 100vw, 502px" /></figure>
Photo Courtesy: David Esser On Shutterstock.com
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45277600/trumps-crypto-policy-like-a-large-buffet-says-anthony-scaramucci-you-have-to-eat-everything-at-the-table">Anthony Scaramucci Compares Trump&#8217;s Crypto Policy To Mar-A-Lago Buffet: &#8216;You Have To Eat Everything At The Table&#8217;</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Neuro</a>&nbsp;and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/apis?utm_source=benzinga.com&amp;utm_campaign=article-bottom" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank"></a>

Movers

Trading Ideas

$USDC

COIN

Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong Believes Traditional Banks Launching Own Stablecoins 'Not Necessarily The Best' Path— Pitches USDC As Option

Editor's Note: This article has been updated to clarify that Amazon and Inventec received AMD shares as part of AMD's acquisition of ZT Systems, not through a direct investment or strategic stake.
Recent regulatory filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission show that Amazon.com Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>) now holds 822,234 shares of Advanced Micro Devices Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMD#NASDAQ">AMD</a>), valued at approximately $84.4 million.&nbsp;
What Happened: According to AMD's recent SEC filing, the company acquired ZT Group International, a server manufacturer, as part of its ongoing business expansion.&nbsp;
As part of the acquisition, AMD issued shares to former ZT Group shareholders-including Amazon, who held an equity stake in ZT Group prior to the acquisition.
"We are registering the offer and sale of the shares of common stock owned by the selling stockholders to satisfy registration rights we granted to them pursuant to a stock purchase agreement…We are not selling any shares of our common stock under this prospectus and will not receive any proceeds from the sale or other disposition of our common stock by the selling stockholders," AMD said in the regulatory filing. 
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45276805/disneys-30-billion-theme-park-bet-pays-off-as-bob-iger-touts-all-time-high-returns-stock-rallies-10-after-q2-earnings">Disney&#8217;s $30 Billion Theme Park Bet Pays Off As Bob Iger Touts &#8216;All-Time High&#8217; Returns, Stock Rallies 10% After Q2 Earnings</a>
Why It Matters: Aside from Amazon, major recipients of AMD shares in the ZT Systems acquisition include Inventec, set to receive 883,954 shares.
In total, over 8.3 million AMD shares are being distributed among ZT Systems' former shareholders as part of the $4.9 billion cash-and-stock deal.
AMD on Tuesday <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45237261/amd-q1-earnings-revenue-eps-beat-driven-by-expanding-data-center-ai-momentum-chipmaker-expects-strong-growth-in-2025">reported first-quarter revenue</a> of $7.44 billion, with its data center segment growing 57% year-over-year to $3.7 billion.
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45275248/uber-ceo-dara-khosrowshahi-says-average-waymo-in-austin-is-busier-than-99-of-human-drivers">Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi Says &#8216;Average Waymo In Austin Is Busier Than 99%&#8217; Of Human Drivers</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo courtesy: sdx15 / Shutterstock.com

Equities

AMZN

NVDA

Amazon Now Holds AMD Stake Worth $84.4 Million After Lisa Su-Led Chipmaker Acquires ZT Systems (CORRECTED)

Nvidia Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45182565/nvidia-designing-new-ai-chips-for-alibaba-bytedance-tencent-after-warning-us-export-ban-on-h20-could-cost-the-company-55-billion-report">reportedly redesigning</a> its H20 artificial intelligence chip for the Chinese market after U.S. export controls effectively blocked the original version, with plans to launch the modified chip as early as July.
What Happened: Nvidia has notified major Chinese customers, including top cloud service providers, that it intends to release a downgraded H20 chip within the next two months, reported Reuters, citing sources familiar with the matter.
The move comes after the U.S. government <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44830406/nvidia-to-take-55-billion-hit-over-china-chip-export-restrictions-but-top-analyst-dan-ives-says-hes-not-overly-concerned-all-part-of-the-high-game-of-poker">informed Nvidia last month</a> that the original H20 would require an export license, effectively banning it from sale in China under tightened national security rules.
Following this, Nvidia revealed that export restrictions might lead to a revenue loss of $5.5 billion.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/news/25/04/45090231/elon-musk-says-will-come-as-a-surprise-to-most-as-chinas-economy-surpasses-us-and-eu-amid-rising-tariffs-and" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elon Musk Says Will Come As A ‘Surprise To Most&#8217; As China&#8217;s Economy Surpasses US And EU Amid Rising Tariffs And Growing Recession Fears</a>
The company has since developed new technical thresholds to guide the modified design, which will include substantial reductions in memory capacity and potentially other performance adjustments, the report noted.
Nvidia did not immediately respond to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga's</a> request for comments.
Why It's Important: Chinese tech giants such as Tencent Holdings (OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCEHY#OTC">TCEHY</a>), Alibaba Group (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BABA#NYSE">BABA</a>) and ByteDance earlier this year <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/02/43931074/chinese-tech-giants-like-tencent-alibaba-and-bytedance-rush-to-buy-nvidias-h20-ai-chips-as-deepseeks-low-cost-models-fuel-massive-demand-surge">ramped up H20 orders to fuel</a> a growing demand for cost-effective AI solutions, especially from startups like DeepSeek.
Since January, Nvidia has reportedly accumulated $18 billion worth of H20 orders. However, in March, Chinese server maker H3C warned of a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/03/44519562/nvidia-faces-fresh-china-setback-as-chip-shortages-and-sanctions-disrupt-supply">possible shortage</a> of Nvidia's H20 chips.
Earlier this month, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang informed U.S. lawmakers that AI chip <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45157365/nvidia-ceo-jensen-huang-warns-us-lawmakers-that-export-bans-are-backfiring-fueling-huaweis-rise-in-global-ai-chip-race">export restrictions might be giving</a> China's Huawei Technologies a competitive advantage.
That same day, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45160136/nvidia-blasts-anthropic-for-backing-stricter-chip-bans-on-china-focus-on-innovation-than-tell-tall-tales">Nvidia also criticized</a> AI startup Anthropic for supporting tighter U.S. export controls on AI chips to China.
Price Action: Nvidia shares dipped by 0.27% to $117.05 in after-hours trading, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/dashboard">Benzinga Pro</a>.
Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings gave Nvidia a strong growth score of 94.76%. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Click here to see how it stacks up against other major tech players</a> like Alibaba and Tencent.
Photo Courtesy: Hepha1st0s On Shutterstock.com
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/25/04/45071155/mild-recession-is-best-case-outcome-jpmorgan-ceo-jamie-dimon" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon Warns Recession Is Best-Case Outcome Of Trump Trade War</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

BABA

TCEHY

Nvidia Modifies H20 Chip For China After US Restrictions Block Sales, Aims To Deliver New Version By July: Report

On Thursday, Cardinal Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, became <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45298795/who-is-new-pope-leo-xiv-francis-appointee-first-american-pope-has-supported-workers-rights">the first American pope</a> — despite previously using social media to push back on Donald Trump-era policies, the president says he looks forward to their historic meeting.
What Happened: A review of Pope Leo XIV&#8217;s social media history on X, formerly Twitter, revealed that Prevost had shared or reposted messages over the years that criticized several Trump administration policies, <a href="https://thehill.com/policy/international/5290441-pope-leo-social-media-criticism-trump-vance/">reported</a> The Hill.
Among his posts were:
Articles disputing Vice President JD Vance's interpretations of Christian teachings.
<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">JD Vance is wrong: Jesus doesn&#39;t ask us to rank our love for others <a href="https://t.co/hDKPKuMXmu">https://t.co/hDKPKuMXmu</a> via <a href="https://twitter.com/NCRonline?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NCRonline</a>
&mdash; Robert Prevost (@drprevost) <a href="https://twitter.com/drprevost/status/1886469097560719594?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
See Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44916290/pope-francis-the-peoples-pope-dies-at-88-tributes-pour-in-from-trump-king-charles-tim-cook-joe-biden-jimmy-fallon-and-more">Pope Francis, The People&#8217;s Pope, Dies At 88: Tributes Pour In From Trump, King Charles, Tim Cook, Joe Biden, Jimmy Fallon, And More</a>
Links criticizing anti-immigrant rhetoric.
<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">Pope Francis' letter, JD Vance's ‘ordo amoris' and what the Gospel asks of all of us on immigration <a href="https://t.co/Ikk8gqOMzn">https://t.co/Ikk8gqOMzn</a>
&mdash; Robert Prevost (@drprevost) <a href="https://twitter.com/drprevost/status/1889907998753173882?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<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">Cardinal Dolan: Why Donald Trump's anti-immigrant rhetoric is so problematic <a href="http://t.co/GVEbTbOVwu">http://t.co/GVEbTbOVwu</a>
&mdash; Robert Prevost (@drprevost) <a href="https://twitter.com/drprevost/status/627250553718996992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Messages opposing the death penalty and reposting a post on migrant deportations
<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">It&#39;s time to end the death penalty.
&mdash; Robert Prevost (@drprevost) <a href="https://twitter.com/drprevost/status/573543286377484288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2015</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<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">As Trump &amp; Bukele use Oval to &#x1f923; Feds' illicit deportation of a US resident (<a href="https://t.co/t80iDMbBKf">https://t.co/t80iDMbBKf</a>), once an undoc-ed Salvadorean himself, now-DC Aux +Evelio asks, "Do you not see the suffering? Is your conscience not disturbed? How can you stay quiet?" <a href="https://t.co/jTradMfr0v">https://t.co/jTradMfr0v</a>
&mdash; Rocco Palmo (@roccopalmo) <a href="https://twitter.com/roccopalmo/status/1911914220850946211?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
He also highlighted Congress's inaction on gun laws following deadly shootings by reposting a post.
<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">To my colleagues: your cowardice to act cannot be whitewashed by thoughts and prayers. None of this ends unless we do something to stop it.
&mdash; Chris Murphy &#x1f7e7; (@ChrisMurphyCT) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChrisMurphyCT/status/914883285473513472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2017</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
In a 2023 interview with the Vatican News Service, Prevost acknowledged the influence — and risk — of using social media as a religious leader, the report noted.&nbsp;
"Social media can be an important tool to communicate the Gospel message, reaching millions of people," he said. "At the same time… we really have to think several times before speaking or before writing a message… to answer or even just to ask questions in a public form, in full view of everyone."
He added, "Sometimes there is a risk of fueling divisions and controversy."
Why It's Important: On Thursday, Trump posted on Truth Social that he looked forward to meeting the new pontiff, writing, "It will be a very meaningful moment!"
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08233825/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-9.08.14%E2%80%AFAM-1024x665.png" alt="" class="wp-image-909401" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Source: Truth Social</figcaption></figure>
Vice President Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019, had been among the last to meet Pope Francis before his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44892537/pope-francis-first-south-american-pontiff-and-peoples-pope-dies-at-88">death on April 21</a> and called the experience "a great honor and a sign from God."
Photo Courtesy: Joshua Sukoff On Shutterstock.com
Read Next:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/05/45307459/pope-leo-xiv-themed-memecoins-surge-after-us-born-robert-francis-prevost-becomes-romes-new-bishop">Pope Leo XIV-Themed Memecoins Surge After US-Born Robert Francis Prevost Becomes Rome&#8217;s New Bishop</a></li>
</ul>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Government

Global

Media

Pope Leo XIV Didn't Spare Trump Administration Criticism On Social Media — Now The President Says He's 'Excited' And Looking Forward To Meeting The First American Catholic Pontiff

According to the latest data, zero-day-to-expiration (0DTE) options hit record high volumes this week, a sign that &#8220;risk appetite is skyrocketing,&#8221; say market observers.
What Happened: On Thursday night, popular investment newsletter The Kobeissi Letter shared a chart on X, made by options research firm Tier1 Alpha, illustrating the sharp rise in zero-day-to-expiration (0DTE) S&amp;P 500 option volumes in recent years.
The chart shows 0DTE volumes as a share of the total S&amp;P 500 option volumes, touching a staggering new high of 67% on Tuesday this week, &#8220;an all-time high.&#8221;
Zero-day-to-expiration (0DTE) options are contracts on stocks or indexes that expire on the same day they are traded, making them a popular tool for short-term speculation and intraday strategies.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45308114/warner-bros-discovery-pulls-back-on-streaming-flood-betting-big-on-premium-hits-and-letting-scooby-doo-sniff-out-new-fans-on-netflix">Warner Bros. Discovery Pulling Back From &#8216;More Is Better&#8217; Streaming Strategy, Bets Big On Premium Content — And Letting Scooby-Doo Sniff Out New Fans On Netflix</a>
The post highlights the growing popularity of these risky, ultra-short-term trading instruments, stating that their volume share has more than doubled over the past three years. 
<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">Risk appetite is skyrocketing: 0DTE options volume reflected 67% of total options volume on Tuesday, an all-time high. Over the last 3 years, the volume share of these risky trading instruments has more than DOUBLED. In Q1 2025, the average daily trading volume of 0DTE… <a href="https://t.co/LQF7mLEf5i">pic.twitter.com/LQF7mLEf5i</a>
&mdash; The Kobeissi Letter (@KobeissiLetter) <a href="https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/1920621989342892423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
During the first quarter of 2025, the average daily volumes of 0DTE options contracts exceeded 2 million, &#8220;for the first time in history,&#8221; it says. The post notes that average daily 0DTE volumes stood at just 400,000 in the first quarter of 2022, not 400 million (which is a typo), marking a fivefold increase over the past three years.
It ends by stating that &#8220;Risk appetite has completely flipped.&#8221;
Why It Matters: The Vice President of Derivatives Market Intelligence at CBOE Global Markets Inc. (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CBOE#BATS">CBOE</a>), Henry Schwartz, recently said <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/partner/news/25/05/45222085/zero-day-options-priced-appropriately-despite-market-volatility-insights-from-cboe-webinar-with-benz">during a Benzinga Webinar</a> this week that 0DTE options tend to be priced appropriately for current market conditions. &#8220;The options market is a pretty efficient marketplace, things are generally priced right,&#8221; he said.
Others, such as JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>) analysts, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/23/03/31230564/jpmorgan-analysts-believe-these-options-could-turn-a-5-market-fall-into-a-deadly-di">have expressed concerns</a> that the rising popularity of 0DTE options could potentially exacerbate intraday market declines.
Photo Courtesy: Gsign76 On Shutterstock.com
Read More: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45308042/monsters-ceo-we-dont-always-win-on-hedging-as-aluminum-tariffs-bite-into-q2-margins">Monster&#8217;s CEO: &#8216;We Don&#8217;t Always Win&#8217; On Hedging—As Aluminum Tariffs Bite Into Q2 Margins</a></li>
</ul>

Options

CBOE

A Sign Of 'Skyrocketing' Risk Appetite? One-Day Option Trades Explode In Popularity

The cryptocurrency market rallied sharply on Thursday after the Trump administration inked a trade deal with the United Kingdom.
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 9:00 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)</td>
<td>+4.81%</td>
<td>$102,675.77</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+20.05%</td>
<td>$2,195.20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Dogecoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/doge/usd">DOGE</a>)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
<td>+10.98%</td>
<td>$0.1948</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
What Happened: Bitcoin breached the $100,000 milestone after a wait of three months, catalyzing a broader market uptick. The apex cryptocurrency nearly tapped $104,000 in a volatile session, with trading volume increasing by 59% in the last 24 hours.
Bitcoin&#8217;s gains were overwhelmed by its younger sibling, Ethereum, which burst out after weeks of sideways trading around the $1,800 range. The second-largest cryptocurrency breached $2,200, a level not seen in over two months.
The rally pushed Ethereum's market dominance past 8% for the first time in over a month.
Bearish leveraged traders took in huge losses as the rally wiped out nearly $800 million in short positions.
Interestingly, Bitcoin's Open Interest dropped 0.20% in the last 24 hours, indicating that the rally may have been driven by short covering. On the other hand, Ethereum's Open Interest surged 20%.
The "Greed" sentiment prevailed in the market, according to the Crypto Fear and Greed Index.
Top Gainers (24-Hours)
<figure class="wp-block-table"> 
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Cryptocurrency</td>
<td>Gains +/-</td>
<td>Price (Recorded at 9:00 p.m. ET)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eos (VIRTUAL)</td>
<td>+16.78%</td>
<td>$0.8168</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Stacks (STX)</td>
<td>+9.62%</td>
<td>$0.892</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Zcash (ZEC)</td>
<td>+5.10%</td>
<td>$40.32</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
The global cryptocurrency market capitalization soared 6.91% in the last 24 hours to $3.22 trillion.
Stocks also climbed on Wednesday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 254.48 points, or 0.62%, to end at 41,368.45. The S&amp;P 500 lifted 0.58% to close at 5,663.94, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite gained 1.07% to finish at 17,928.14.
The risk-on sentiment was bolstered after the Trump administration signed its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45294428/wall-street-rallies-after-us-seals-first-trade-deal-you-better-go-out-and-buy-stock-trump-says">first major trade agreement with the</a> UK, fueling confidence about further global deals.
This comes ahead of Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45242461/donald-trumps-trade-war-sparks-first-major-us-china-talks-scott-bessent-jamieson-greer-to-meet-chinese-delegation-in-geneva">meeting with top Chinese officials for trade negotiations</a>.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-crypto-scanners">Best Cryptocurrency Scanners</a>
Analyst Notes: Cryptocurrency analytics firm Santiment said the ongoing bullish sentiment could be a "double-edged sword" for upcoming price moves.
"On one hand, retail FOMO can add a bit of extra fuel to this rally as major media outlets spam Bitcoin&#8217;s 3-month milestone and bring in many new entries to the space. On the other hand, we typically see rallies put on the brakes when there is an overwhelming amount of calls related to &#8216;higher&#8217; or &#8216;above,&#8217;" the firm added.
<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">&#x1f973; Cryptocurrency has continued its rally, with Bitcoin breaching the all-important $100K psychological resistance for the first time since Feb. 3rd. Sentiment is quite bullish at the moment, which can be a double-edged sword for upcoming price movement from here. On one hand,… <a href="https://t.co/iGcLsY1cxN">pic.twitter.com/iGcLsY1cxN</a>
&mdash; Santiment (@santimentfeed) <a href="https://twitter.com/santimentfeed/status/1920514782823920113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Cryptocurrency analyst and trader Rekt Capital weighed in on Ethereum's stratospheric gains during the day, emphasizing the significance of $2,200.
"Reclaim ~$2200 and Ethereum will resynchronise with its $2200-$3900 macro range," the analyst said
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24ETH&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$ETH</a> That was quick Ethereum has reached ~$2200 Going forward, ETH will need to reclaim ~$2200 via a similar reclaim to what occurred in late 2023 (blue circle) Reclaim ~$2200 and Ethereum will resynchronise with its $2200-$3900 Macro Range<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ETH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ETH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Crypto?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Crypto</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ethereum?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ethereum</a> <a href="https://t.co/sQYXDeG1ZB">https://t.co/sQYXDeG1ZB</a> <a href="https://t.co/ecJBvDkpQ6">pic.twitter.com/ecJBvDkpQ6</a>
&mdash; Rekt Capital (@rektcapital) <a href="https://twitter.com/rektcapital/status/1920592869263323633?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Shutterstock: Yalcin Sonat
Read Next:    
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45287050/coinbase-acquires-deribit-in-2-9b-deal-to-expand-crypto-derivatives-business">Coinbase Acquires Deribit In $2.9B Deal To Expand Crypto Derivatives Business</a></li>
</ul>

$BTC

$DOGE

$ETH

Bitcoin Closing In On $104,000, Ethereum, Dogecoin Soar On Trade Deal Optimism: Analytics Firm Says Bullish Sentiment A 'Double-Edged Sword'

Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WBD#NASDAQ">WBD</a>) is reshaping its streaming strategy, cutting back on sheer content volume and doubling down on premium franchises, all while striking licensing deals like sending Scooby-Doo over to Netflix Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NFLX#NASDAQ">NFLX</a>).
What Happened: On Thursday, during the company's first-quarter earnings call, WBD CEO David Zaslav explained how the company is moving away from the old "more is better" streaming mindset.
He praised the success of Warner Bros. Television Group CEO Channing Dungey's team, noting a strong performance with high-profile projects such as "Ted Lasso" and "Presumed Innocent" for Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>).
Zaslav highlighted that Presumed Innocent originated as a WBD title and was transformed into a compelling series before being sold to Apple — a deal he described as &#8220;very good business&#8221; for the company.
He also pointed to other notable titles like Shrinking, Bad Monkey, and Abbott Elementary—the latter being sold to Walt Disney Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DIS#NYSE">DIS</a>)—as evidence of WBD&#8217;s reputation as a high-quality content provider.
See Also:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44831264/microsoft-debuts-computer-use-tool-for-copilot-studio-ceo-satya-nadella-says-anyone-can-build-agents-that-take-action-on-the-ui-across-desktop-and-web-apps" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Satya Nadella Says Microsoft&#8217;s New Tool Allows Anyone To Create AI Agents That Click, Type, And Navigate On Your Computer For You</a>
However, he made a clear distinction when it comes to certain intellectual properties. Core franchises like "Wonder Woman," "Batman," "Superman" and "Supergirl," currently being developed under James Gunn and Peter Safran's 10-year DC roadmap, are being cultivated as global asset builders exclusive to Warner Bros. Discovery.
The WBD CEO said the same applies to "Harry Potter," noting a decade-long commitment with author JK Rowling and "Game of Thrones" as part of the studio's long-term strategy to develop and retain premium, globally recognizable IP.
&#8220;Those belong to us and they'll only belong to us forever because we're building big assets and a global differentiated strategy around that,&#8221; he stated.
However, Warner Bros. isn't locking up every piece of its massive library. Zaslav pointed to the recent example of Scooby-Doo, where the company sold a new show to Netflix to reach a broader audience.&nbsp;
Subscribe to the&nbsp;<a href="https://bztechtrends.beehiiv.com/subscribe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Benzinga Tech Trends newsletter</a>&nbsp;to get all the latest tech developments delivered to your inbox.
"In some cases, we'll find with Scooby-Doo, we can sell something to Ted [Sarandos] and Netflix, and that can get very broad acceptance in the marketplace," Zaslav said. "And then we can follow it with a Scooby-Doo movie — that would be a real win-win for us."
WBD CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels added that this strategy shift does not mean Warner Bros. will dramatically ramp up or slash spending.
"We have significant growth ambitions for the streaming service and for the studio," he said, noting the company will support those goals with moderate increases in content spending over time.
Why It's Important: Warner Bros. posted a 9% year-over-year revenue decline (excluding foreign exchange impacts) to $8.98 billion, falling short of the analyst consensus estimate of $9.60 billion.
Streaming revenue rose 9% year-over-year (excluding foreign exchange effects) to $2.66 billion. The growth was driven in part by an 8% increase in distribution revenue, fueled by a 23% surge in subscribers thanks to Max's ongoing global rollout and new domestic distribution agreements.
Price Action: WBD shares rose 0.43% to $9.05 in Thursday's after-hours trading, according to <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?gspk=YWRhbWVja2VydDUzMzY&amp;gsxid=zBMR4PKmcgBw">Benzinga Pro data</a>.
Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings assigns the stock a growth score of 5.89%. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Click here to see how it stacks up against</a> Netflix, Disney, Apple, and other major players.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/WBD"><img decoding="async" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08222959/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-7.59.48%E2%80%AFAM.png" alt="" class="wp-image-909347" /></a></figure>
Check out more of Benzinga's Consumer Tech coverage by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/consumer-tech" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">following this link</a>.
Read Next:&nbsp;
<ul>
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/trading-ideas/movers/25/04/45029805/what-caused-sam-altman-founded-world-network-token-to-soar-57-in-a-week" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">What Caused Sam Altman-Founded World Network Token To Soar 57% in a Week? What Caused Sam Altman-Founded World Network Token To Soar 57% in a Week?</a></li>
</ul>
Photo Courtesy: Elzbieta Krzysztof On Shutterstock.com
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Entertainment

AAPL

NFLX

Warner Bros. Discovery Pulling Back From 'More Is Better' Streaming Strategy, Bets Big On Premium Content — And Letting Scooby-Doo Sniff Out New Fans On Netflix

Monster Beverage Corp. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MNST#NASDAQ">MNST</a>) is bracing for tighter margins in the second quarter as rising aluminum costs and tariff-related premiums begin to squeeze its bottom line.
What Happened: During the company&#8217;s first quarter earnings call on Thursday, Vice Chairman and Co-CEO, Hilton Schlosberg, said that Monster&#8217;s layered hedging strategy may not be able to contain certain costs, particularly the rise in aluminum prices stemming from the tariffs.
&#8220;We use a ladder approach for hedging, and it's very difficult and somewhat expensive to hedge the Midwest premium,&#8221; he said, referring to the regional surcharge applied to aluminum deliveries in the U.S. Midwest.
See More: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45306998/arm-cfo-explains-why-company-withheld-fiscal-2026-full-year-guidance-amid-uncertainty-from-customers-and-tariff-impacts-the-amount-of-signals-im-getting">Arm CFO Explains Why Company Withheld Fiscal 2026 Full Year Guidance Amid Uncertainty From Customers And Tariff Impacts: &#8216;The Amount Of Signals I&#8217;m Getting…&#8217;</a>
&#8220;To a limited degree, we are hedged with certain volumes in the Midwest premium,&#8221; Schlosberg said, while acknowledging, &#8220;we don't always win&#8221; with hedging. He added that the purpose of the company's hedging strategy is to manage risk and avoid leaving the business overly exposed to price volatility.
Looking ahead, Schlosberg warned that rising material costs, including the Midwest aluminum premium, are likely to pressure margins in the coming months. &#8220;I wouldn't expect that the second quarter margin will be as high as the first quarter margin,&#8221; he said.
Why It Matters: In February, Coca-Cola Co. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KO#NYSE">KO</a>) warned that the <a href="https://benzinga.com/news/25/02/43759161/coca-cola-warns-trumps-tariffs-could-force-it-to-use-more-plastic-if-aluminium-cans-become-more-expensive-we-can-shift-to-pet">tariffs on Aluminum</a> could force it to use more plastic to keep prices stable. &#8220;If aluminum cans become more expensive, we can put more emphasis on PET bottles,&#8221; the company&#8217;s CEO, James Quincey, said. 
Even Alcoa Corp. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AA#NYSE">AA</a>), the largest aluminum producer in the U.S., recently disclosed that tariffs <a href="https://benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/04/44858454/alcoa-warns-tariffs-could-cost-425-million-annually-this-is-the-most-material-impact-says-ceo">have taken a toll</a> on its bottom line, while estimating an annual earnings impact of $425 million. The company noted that 70% of its production based in Canada is destined for American consumers, making it vulnerable.
Monster Beverages is also expected to face certain <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45188975/snap-spending-shift-could-hit-general-mills-pepsico-hard-warns-analyst">headwinds stemming from cuts</a> in the U.S. Federal Government&#8217;s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), with roughly 10% of its $123 billion annual budget being spent on soda. 
During its first quarter results, Monster reported $1.85 billion in revenue, down 2.3% year-over-year, with a profit of $0.45 per share, up 7.4% from last year. The company missed consensus estimates at the top and bottom lines. 
Price Action: The stock was down 0.69% on Thursday, and is down 0.73% after hours, following its first quarter, which fell short of analyst estimates.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="136" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08221424/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-7.44.12-AM-1024x136.png" alt="" class="wp-image-909331" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08221424/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-7.44.12-AM-1024x136.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08221424/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-7.44.12-AM-300x40.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08221424/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-7.44.12-AM-768x102.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08221424/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-7.44.12-AM-1536x204.png 1536w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08221424/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-7.44.12-AM.png 1610w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
According to Benzinga&#8217;s Edge Stock Rankings, the stock sports a favorable price trend in the short, medium, and long term. For more insights, sign up for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Benzinga Edge</a>.
Photo Courtesy: kiraziku2u on Shutterstock.com
Read More: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45305930/elon-musk-said-bill-gates-has-no-clue-after-gates-claimed-electric-trucks-may-never-be-practical-because-they-cant-cover-long-distances">Elon Musk Said Bill Gates &#8216;Has No Clue&#8217; After Gates Claimed Electric Trucks May &#8216;Never Be Practical&#8217; Because They Can&#8217;t Cover Long Distances</a></li>
</ul>

MNST

Monster's CEO: 'We Don't Always Win' On Hedging—As Aluminum Tariffs Bite Into Q2 Margins

Vice President JD Vance has openly criticized Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell for his economic policies, particularly concerning inflation and trade agreements.
What Happened: During an interview with Fox News, Vance expressed dissatisfaction with Powell&#8217;s handling of economic issues. According to <a href="https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5291493-jd-vance-jerome-powell-nice-guy-wrong-about-almost-everything/">The Hill</a>, Vance labeled Powell as a &#8220;nice guy&#8221; but criticized his delayed response to inflation and trade deals. Vance&#8217;s remarks echo recent criticisms from President Donald Trump, who has been vocal about his discontent with Powell&#8217;s decisions.
&#8220;Well, first of all, I think the president is right about Jerome Powell. Jerome Powell, he's a nice guy, but he's been wrong about almost everything. He was way too late in combating the Biden inflation, and now I think he's way too late in actually helping us fight back against some of these ridiculous trade deals that have stolen the wealth of the American people,&#8221; said Vance.
On Thursday, Trump likened discussions with Powell to &#8220;talking to a wall&#8221; and criticized the Fed&#8217;s decision to maintain interest rates between 4.25% and 4.5%. Trump pointed out that other central banks, such as the Bank of England and China, have opted to cut rates.
Powell defended the Fed&#8217;s stance, stating that the labor market remains strong and inflation is low, allowing for patience in policy adjustments. He also mentioned uncertainties around tariff policies and their potential economic impact. Powell, initially appointed by Trump in 2017, was reappointed by President Joe Biden.
See Also: <a href="https://benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/05/45285797/forget-rate-cuts-this-year-bank-of-america-warns-after-powells-hawkish-tone" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Forget Rate Cuts This Year, Bank Of America Warns After Powell&#8217;s Hawkish Tone</a>
Why It Matters: The Federal Reserve&#8217;s decision to keep interest rates steady at 4.25%-4.50% marks the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/25/05/45263291/fed-keeps-rates-steady-warns-of-rising-uncertainty-about-the-economic-outlook">third consecutive pause</a> in its interest-rate policy. The Fed has acknowledged increased uncertainty about the economic outlook. Despite calls for lower rates, the Fed&#8217;s decision aligns with expert predictions that it will be <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/05/45283497/federal-reserve-will-be-the-last-to-cut-says-expert-anticipating-4-cuts-in-2025-a-thaw-in-us-china-trade-dispute-is-good-news">among the last central banks</a> to cut rates.
Trump&#8217;s criticism of Powell is not new. Previously, Trump claimed to <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/45093252/trump-says-he-knows-much-more-than-fed-chair-jerome-powell-about-interest-rates">know &#8220;much more&#8221; than Powell</a> about interest rates. Despite this, Trump has stated he has &#8220;<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/04/44940900/us-futures-dollar-jump-amid-trumps-latest-comments-on-fed-nikkei-rebounds-to-three-week-high">no intention</a>&#8221; of firing Powell.
Photo Courtesy: Lev Radin on Shutterstock.com
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/news/global/25/05/45188953/mohamed-el-erian-expects-fed-to-hold-rates-warns-us-china-trade-war-impact-will-show-in-this-key-economic-data" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mohamed El-Erian Expects Fed To Hold Rates, Warns US-China Trade War Impact Will Show In This Key Economic Data</a></li>
</ul>
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

Politics

JD Vance Says Trump Is Right About Jerome Powell: The Fed Chair A 'Nice Guy' But 'Wrong About Almost Everything'

On Thursday, Cathie Wood-led Ark Invest made significant moves in the stock market, focusing on Shopify Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SHOP#NASDAQ">SHOP</a>), Palantir Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PLTR#NASDAQ">PLTR</a>), and Block Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XYZ#NYSE">XYZ</a>).
The Shopify Trade
Ark Invest&#8217;s funds, including Ark Fintech Innovation ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKF#BATS">ARKF</a>), ARK Innovation ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKK#BATS">ARKK</a>), and ARK Next Generation Internet ETF (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ARKW#BATS">ARKW</a>), collectively acquired 228,824 shares in Shopify. This move comes after Shopify reported a 26.8% year-over-year increase in revenue for its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45286313/shopify-q1-gross-margin-contracts-misses-profit-estimate">fiscal first quarter</a>, reaching $2.36 billion, which surpassed analyst expectations of $2.33 billion. Despite this revenue growth, Shopify&#8217;s stock experienced a decline following the announcement due to a contraction in gross margins. On Thursday, the shares ended 0.5% lower at $94. The Ark purchase amounted to $21.5 million.
The Palantir Trade
Ark Invest trimmed its position in the Alex Karp-led company across its ARKF, ARKK, and ARKW funds, offloading a total of 135,572 shares. Based on Thursday's closing price of $119.15—up 7.85% on the day—the trades were valued at approximately $16.1 million.
This decision follows Palantir&#8217;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45292541/palantir-pltr-stock-gains-5-thursday-whats-going-on">recent earnings report</a>, which showed a 39% increase in revenue year-over-year, reaching $883.86 million and surpassing analyst expectations. The company&#8217;s U.S. revenue saw a significant 55% rise, driven by a 71% surge in commercial revenue. Despite the positive earnings, Ark Invest has been <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45274539/cathie-wood-strengthens-ai-chip-holdings-with-nvidia-and-amd-purchases-reduces-palantir-position-by-another-38-8-million">trimming its position</a> in Palantir. On Wednesday, the firm offloaded shares worth $38.8 million, while on Tuesday it had sold $41 million worth. Palantir makes up 6.01% of Ark's portfolio by weight, with total holdings valued at $301.3 million.
The Block Trade
Ark Invest also decreased its stake in the Jack Dorsey-led company, selling a total of 256,593 shares across its ARKF, ARKK, and ARKW funds. This decision follows Block&#8217;s disappointing <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45152696/block-shares-drop-after-worse-than-expected-q1-results-details">first-quarter earnings report</a>, which revealed earnings of 56 cents per share, missing the analyst consensus estimate of 87 cents. Additionally, the Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>)-focused company&#8217;s quarterly revenue of $5.77 billion fell short of the expected $6.2 billion.
Other Key Trades:
<ul>
<li>ARKK and ARKG purchased shares of Veracyte Inc. </li>
<li>ARKK acquired shares of GitLab Inc. </li>
<li>ARKG sold shares of Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp. </li>
</ul>
Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings show that Palantir has a Momentum in the 99th percentile and Growth in the 87th percentile. Want to know how your favorite stock ranks up? <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound">Click here</a>.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/benzinga-edge-2#:~:text=Turn%20Market%20Chaos,when%20markets%20rebound"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="445" height="281" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08214546/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-10.45.25.png" alt="" class="wp-image-909314" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08214546/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-10.45.25.png 445w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/08214546/Screenshot-2025-05-09-at-10.45.25-300x189.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 445px) 100vw, 445px" /></a></figure>
Photo Courtesy: Ira Lichi On Shutterstock.com
Read Next: 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45213068/mark-zuckerberg-overtakes-jeff-bezos-to-become-worlds-second-richest-person-as-meta-stock-soars" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Zuckerberg Overtakes Jeff Bezos To Become World&#8217;s Second-Richest Person As Meta Stock Soars</a></li>
</ul>
This story was generated using <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/benzinga-neuro">Benzinga Neuro</a> and edited by <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/shivdeep-dhaliwal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shivdeep Dhaliwal</a>

ETFs

ARKF

ARKK

ARKW

PLTR

SHOP

Cathie Wood's $21.5 Million Shopify Grab Defies Post-Earnings Dip, Ark Continues Dumping Palantir, Also Chops Jack Dorsey's Block

Comments

Democratic Large Cap Core ETF

ニュース

最新ニュース Democratic Large Cap Core ETF (NASDAQ:DEMZ)

ニュース

パートナーシップ

ベンジンガ・グローバル