Ferguson Enterprises 株価情報 (NYSE: FERG)

最新ニュース Ferguson Enterprises (NYSE:FERG) 株価情報

Ferguson Enterprises

Ferguson

Ferguson distributes plumbing and HVAC products to North American repair, maintenance and improvement, new construction, and civil infrastructure markets. It serves over 1 million customers and sources products from 36,000 suppliers. Ferguson engages customers through approximately 1,800 North American branches, over the phone, online, and in residential showrooms. According to Modern Distribution Management, Ferguson is the largest plumbing distributor and second-largest HVAC distributor (next to Watsco) in North America. The firm sold its UK business in 2021 and is now solely focused on the North American market.

Ferguson Enterprises Inc

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/12/42378433/suze-orman-warns-fear-is-fueled-by-stress-why-60-dont-manage-it-and-4-in-10-worry-about-retirement-savings">Suze Orman</a> wants you to rethink how you give to charity, especially if you're retired and have a healthy savings account.&nbsp;
In her latest blog post, the financial guru explained the brilliant tax-saving potential of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs). Spoiler alert: This strategy could be a game-changer for retirees who want to support good causes without giving Uncle Sam more than his share.
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"A QCD is a powerful way to lower your taxes while helping the organizations you care about," Orman wrote. Here's how it works: if you're at least 70½ years old, you can donate directly from your Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to a qualifying charity.&nbsp;
The best part is that the donation doesn't count as taxable income. For 2024, the cap is $105,000 per person; in 2025, it bumps up to $108,000. But there's a catch – you must act fast to meet the Dec. 31 deadline for this tax year.
"This isn't something you want to leave until the last minute," Orman warned. "Reach out to your brokerage as soon as possible because these transfers can take time to process."
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The benefits don't stop at reducing your taxable income. QCDs also help retirees manage pesky Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). If you've got a traditional IRA, the government requires you to withdraw money annually by age 73 (or 75 if you're turning 75 after 2032). These withdrawals are treated as ordinary income; yes, you pay taxes on every dollar.
But here's where the QCD swoops in to save the day. Orman explains: "If your RMD for 2025 is $20,000 and you donate $8,000 through a QCD, that $8,000 counts toward your RMD but isn't taxable. You only pay taxes on the remaining $12,000." That's less money to the IRS and more for you to keep – or give.
Beyond immediate tax savings, a QCD can shrink your IRA balance, which lowers future RMDs and their associated tax bills. It's a smart long-term move for retirees who want to keep more money in their pockets.
However, Orman makes it clear that this strategy isn't for everyone. "You need to be 100% sure you have more than<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/04/38466698/are-you-saving-enough-to-be-in-the-top-3-of-retirees-heres-how-much-you-need"> enough savings</a> to cover your retirement before considering a QCD," she stressed.&nbsp;
She advises consulting a trusted financial professional to ensure this move aligns with your financial plan.
According to Giving USA, charitable donations in the U.S. hit a record $557 billion in 2023. Also, a study by Fidelity Charitable found that 59% of retirees gave at least $1,000 to charity in 2023, making QCDs an attractive option for those looking to give smarter.
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Personal Finance

'Have More Than You Need? Don't Waste It!'—Suze Orman Reveals How IRA Charitable Gifts Can Cut Taxes And Shrink Your RMDs

Elon Musk is said to share an unexpected bond with Barron Trump, President-elect Donald Trump&#8216;s youngest son and only child with Melania Trump. The news was shared by none other than Musk&#8217;s mother, Maye Musk.
What Happened: Maye Musk unveiled the surprising relationship between her son and Barron Trump during an interview <a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com/video/6365912011112">with</a> Fox Business.
During the conversation, Maye spoke about Elon and Barron bonded over out-of-this-world exploration. 
&#8220;At the Thanksgiving dinner, Barron and Elon were talking planets. Barron&#8217;s 18 years old. They were discussing all the different planets and why Mars is the best place to start a new civilization. And I was very impressed with him, too,&#8221; she said. 
Maye stated that her son aims to &#8220;achieve positive outcomes&#8221; for America and described Trump as being &#8220;transparent and forthright&#8221; about his executive plans.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42496864/exclusive-eric-trump-calls-elon-musk-albert-einstein-of-our-time-says-tesla-ceo-will-help-build-a-stronger-america">EXCLUSIVE: Eric Trump Calls Elon Musk &#8216;Albert Einstein Of Our Time,&#8217; Says Tesla CEO Will Help Build &#8216;A Stronger America&#8217;</a>
Talking about her son and Donald Trump&#8217;s bonding, Maye said, &#8220;I think Trump just wants everything to be honest and open so that you know where your&nbsp;tax dollars are going. He&#8217;s not going to be mean to people. When I see him, he just seems happy that he can make changes that will improve the lives of Americans. I think we&#8217;re all going to be happier.&#8221;
Why It Matters: The unexpected bond between Musk and Barron Trump comes as a surprise to many. While Musk is known for his groundbreaking work in the tech industry, Barron Trump, the youngest son of former President Donald Trump, is still a teenager. 
The nature of their connection remains undisclosed, sparking curiosity among the public. This revelation could potentially shed new light on the personal life of the tech mogul, who is often in the limelight for his professional achievements.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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TSLA

Elon Musk's Mother Opens Up About His Friendship With Barron Trump: 'Bonded Over Out-Of-This-World Exploration'

CNN And MSNBC Ratings Slashed In Half, Collapse To Their Lowest Levels In Nearly 30 Years With Billionaires Circling
The political media landscape is undergoing a dramatic shake-up. CNN and MSNBC, two of the biggest cable news networks, are facing historic ratings declines, with their viewership slashed nearly in half since the recent presidential election. Both networks struggle to retain their audiences, collapsing to levels not seen in nearly 30 years. Meanwhile, Fox News has held steady, dominating the cable news space.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Viewership in Freefall</h2>
MSNBC&#8217;s prime-time audience has taken a staggering 53% hit, dropping from 1.34 million viewers before the election to just 632,000. CNN hasn't fared much better, losing 47% of its prime-time viewers, down to 398,000. On some nights, these networks aren't just losing to Fox News – they're losing to lifestyle channels like the Food Network, where more viewers are tuning into shows like Chopped than CNN's Anderson Cooper or MSNBC's Jen Psaki.
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While it's normal for political news viewership to dip after a major event like an election, Forbes reports that this drop is unusually severe. Fox News, by contrast, has barely felt the effects, with only a minor decline in its prime-time audience, holding strong at around 2.63 million viewers.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Went Wrong?</h2>
The collapse of CNN and MSNBC isn't just about a postelection lull. Analysts and critics say <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/startups/24/12/42257031/670269">it's about trust – </a>or a lack of it. Many viewers feel these networks failed to prepare them for what was coming and didn't offer a compelling vision for the future. MSNBC spent months criticizing Trump but lacked urgency in its coverage of the election's aftermath. And the network faced backlash when Morning Joe hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, despite years of calling him a &#8220;fascist.&#8221;
CNN, on the other hand, has struggled with its identity. It attempts to appear neutral while airing segments that many find inconsistent or disingenuous, like undecided voter panels that later turn out to feature obvious Trump supporters. The result? A growing number of viewers no longer trust the network.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Independent Media Rises</h2>
As left-leaning audiences tune out from CNN and MSNBC, many turn to independent media for their news. Platforms like The David Pakman Show and Secular Talk are seeing audiences stabilize or grow as viewers seek more authentic voices. Unlike corporate media, independent outlets don't have layers of executives and advertisers influencing their content, which resonates with disillusioned viewers.
David Pakman himself has <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m8KahcQ7sUc">noted</a> that the current collapse of CNN and MSNBC reflects a broader trend: &#8220;Increasingly, they are turning to independent media where they feel they can get honest, genuine coverage from people that they can trust.&#8221;
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Fox News, meanwhile, has kept its audience engaged by framing Trump's victory as the start of a new fight. According to Pakman, its viewers treat politics as a 24/7 cultural battle, which has kept them loyal and energized. With a steady stream of outrage-driven coverage, Fox News has maintained its position as the leader in cable news, holding onto nearly all its viewers postelection.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Hey <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> I have the funniest idea ever!!! <a href="https://t.co/OEwz6S5ncs">https://t.co/OEwz6S5ncs</a>
&mdash; Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) <a href="https://twitter.com/DonaldJTrumpJr/status/1859957346665103747?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The big drop in MSNBC and CNN ratings has caught the attention of some high-profile names. Billionaire Elon Musk recently <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/entertainment/24/11/42195657/will-elon-musk-buy-msnbc-recent-news-parallels-twitter-acquisition-but-polymarket-shows-low-odds-of-a-deal">teased the idea of buying MSNBC</a>, asking on social media, "How much does it cost?" Comcast, MSNBC's parent company, has denied any plans to sell but is reportedly <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/global/24/11/42081224/comcast-plans-major-cable-networks-spinoff-msnbc-and-cnbc-to-form-new-public-company-report">spinning off its cable news assets</a> into a separate company. This move raises questions about MSNBC's future direction and even its survival in the long term.
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Startups

CNN And MSNBC Ratings Plunge By Half, Reaching 30-Year Lows – And Billionaires Are Paying Attention

The co-founders of crypto analytics firm Glassnode have predicted a potential rally in Altcoins, just in time for the holiday season.
What Happened: Jan Happel and Yann Allemann, who are known as Negentropic on social media X, have shared their insights. They suggest that Altcoins could outshine Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) in the coming weeks.
The Glassnode co-founders have been keeping a close watch on&nbsp;the Bitcoin Dominance (BTC.D) chart,&nbsp;which indicates&nbsp;the percentage of the total&nbsp;crypto market cap that Bitcoin represents. 
They propose that the BTC.D has turned bearish, which could potentially set the stage for altcoins to appreciate in value at a faster rate than Bitcoin.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Christmas Rally Incoming? &#x1f384; Bitcoin dominance has been rejected at the upward trendline—is this the setup for a Christmas rally in altcoins? For this to happen: 1&#xFE0F;&#x20E3; Bitcoin needs to consolidate above $100K. 2&#xFE0F;&#x20E3; A period of sideways movement could allow altcoins to gear up for a… <a href="https://t.co/5WpraVHV3p">https://t.co/5WpraVHV3p</a> <a href="https://t.co/6Y3xvEQOeG">pic.twitter.com/6Y3xvEQOeG</a>
&mdash; 
</blockquote></div></figure>

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

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$BTC

Could Altcoins Outshine Bitcoin In Holiday Rally?

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAPL#NASDAQ">AAPL</a>) may be gearing up to introduce an 18.8-inch foldable iPad by 2028. The innovative device is expected to provide users with a seamless experience, similar to using &#8220;two iPad Pros side-by-side.&#8221;
Bloomberg columnist Mark Gurman in his <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/newsletters/2024-12-15/apple-working-on-giant-foldable-ipad-revamped-mouse-longer-range-airtag-2?srnd=undefined&amp;sref=TBDibEcD">latest</a> weekly "Power On" newsletter shared that Apple&#8217;s industrial design team has successfully developed prototypes of the foldable iPad. The device, which has been a subject of speculation for years, is rumored to have a smaller version launching between 2026 and 2027.
In his newsletter, Gurman compared the upcoming device to the 20-inch folding &#8220;iPad / MacBook hybrid&#8221; he talked about in 2022. Gurman believes that the new iPad will incorporate features from both Macs and iPads. By 2028, he expects the iPadOS to be sophisticated enough to run macOS apps.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">It is my impression that much of Apple's current work on foldable screen technology is focused on this higher-end device, but it's also been exploring the idea of a foldable iPhone.
&mdash; Mark Gurman (@markgurman) <a href="https://twitter.com/markgurman/status/1868286103331160516?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Considering that Macs currently support iPhone and iPad apps, the idea of the reverse happening is not far-fetched. This could significantly boost the device&#8217;s value proposition, especially given that&nbsp;the 13-inch iPad Pro starts&nbsp;at $1,299.
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Gurman also hinted at the development of a foldable iPhone, although its release is not anticipated &#8220;before 2026 at the earliest&#8221;. 
He added that his sources corroborate a recent&nbsp;alleged Apple internal display roadmap, which suggests the launch of&nbsp;the 18.8-inch foldable iPad and&nbsp;the release of&nbsp;OLED MacBook Pros in 2026,&nbsp;followed by a MacBook Air&nbsp;OLED update in 2027.
The introduction of the foldable iPad is a testament to Apple&#8217;s commitment to innovation and user experience. The device, which combines the functionalities of an iPad and a Mac, could potentially redefine the tablet market. 
Moreover, the ability&nbsp;to run macOS apps on&nbsp;the iPadOS could blur the lines between tablets and laptops, offering users a more versatile and compact computing solution. 
The rumored foldable iPhone further indicates Apple&#8217;s plan to expand its foldable device portfolio, which could significantly impact the smartphone market.
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AAPL

Could Apple Set Revolutionize Tablet Market With 18.8-Inch Foldable iPad?

When Amy Landino dropped out of college in 2007, she was carrying $50,000 in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/40950245/suze-orman-says-missing-this-one-crucial-monthly-payment-could-cost-you-big-heres-the-first-bill">student loans </a>and was uncertain. In a CNBC Make It post, she shared, "None of my friends with degrees were landing jobs," she recalled. "And I knew finishing my degree would only bury me in more debt."
It wasn't an easy choice, but with a stable job as a public policy assistant, she decided to bet on herself. She didn't know that this gamble would pay off in ways she could never imagine.
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As detailed in the post, it all started with a simple hobby: making videos. "I've always loved capturing moments and telling stories," Landino said. Back then, YouTube was gaining traction and social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter were starting to take off.&nbsp;
She began sharing her creations online for fun, never thinking they could become something more. Fast forward 15 years and her passion project has blossomed into a career generating $18,000 monthly in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/10/41233338/i-make-180-000-a-month-off-properties-i-dont-even-own-airbnb-arbitrage-is-a-golden-goose-for-many-yo">passive income</a>.
Her first big break came from an unexpected conversation with a friend. "She told me I had a knack for video and social media and should think about doing it professionally," Landino said. That moment sparked the idea that her hobby could be her livelihood.&nbsp;
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She started small, running social media accounts for local businesses during evenings and weekends. A year later, she quit her full-time job and went all in on her agency.
Landino's turning point came during a tough financial stretch. Revenue for her agency had dried up and she needed a solution. She decided to sell a course teaching businesses how to create their videos. "I had maybe a couple hundred people on my email list," she said.&nbsp;
"But I sent out one email offering a prelaunch discount and I made $1,000 in a single day." That initial success pushed her to complete the course, which she delivered via live webinars over six weeks. Once finished, it became a steady source of passive income.
Since then, Landino's career has skyrocketed. Her YouTube channel, <a href="https://youtube.com/amytv">AmyTV</a>, features over 1,000 videos about productivity and brand-building. Each video takes about two hours to create but continuously generates advertising revenue.&nbsp;
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For instance, her December 2020 goal-setting video still directs viewers to purchase her planner. According to YouTube's 2022 report, creators collectively earned $40 billion in ad revenue, underscoring the platform's potential for long-term earnings.
Landino didn't stop there. She self-published three books, including "Vlog Like a Boss: How To Kill It Online With Video Blogging" and "Good Morning, Good Life." According to a report by NBC 4 New York, these books have sold 40,000 copies combined. Her audience's demand for practical tools led her to create a paper planner that brought in over $140,000 in sales. "My audience told me what they needed and I delivered," she said.
Today, her income streams – from YouTube ads, affiliate marketing, book sales and product launches – average $18,000 a month. "It all started as a hobby," Landino said. "When you focus on helping others, amazing things happen."
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'I Only Work 4 Hours A Day': How A College Dropout Built A Brand That Earns $18,000 Monthly With Over $140,000 In Product Sales

NBA superstar Shaquille O&#8217;Neal has reaped significant financial rewards from an unintentional investment in tech behemoth Google, contributing to his present net worth of approximately $500 million.
What Happened: O&#8217;Neal, who is renowned for his tenure with&nbsp;the LA Lakers, Orlando Magic,&nbsp;and Miami Heat, has been diversifying his investments into various businesses&nbsp;since his retirement in 2011. 
His portfolio includes prominent companies such as Apple Inc., Papa John&#8217;s, Krispy Kreme, and Five Guys.
Nevertheless, it was his investment in&nbsp;Google that turned out to be especially profitable for the retired basketball player. O&#8217;Neal disclosed that his investment in Google was the result of a fortuitous meeting with a man who introduced him to the then-emerging company. 
The exact amount O&#8217;Neal has earned from his Google investment remains undisclosed. However, The Motley Fool <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2019/11/25/if-you-invested-10000-in-googles-ipo-this-is-how-m.aspx">reported </a>that a $10,000 investment in Google in 2004 would have grown to over $300,000 by 2019.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/24/11/42026306/nba-legend-shaqs-daughter-breaks-silence-on-dads-career-defying-family-expectations-its-a-no-go-for-me">NBA Legend Shaq&#8217;s Daughter Breaks Silence On Dad&#8217;s Career, Defying Family Expectations: &#8216;It&#8217;s A No Go For Me&#8217;</a>
O&#8217;Neal reportedly rakes in $60&nbsp;million annually from his business investments and endorsements, surpassing his earnings during his basketball career&#8217;s zenith.
Why It Matters: O&#8217;Neal&#8217;s successful investment in Google underscores the potential of tech investments, particularly in startups. 
His investment journey serves as a testament to the power of diversification and the importance of seizing opportunities. 
His financial success post-retirement also highlights the potential for athletes to build sustainable wealth beyond their sports careers.
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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.

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Shaquille O'Neal's $250K 'Accidental' Investment Turns Into A Fortune After Business Booms

Billionaire Mark Cuban shared his daily routine, which he believes might surprise many. Cuban&#8217;s day commences with an hour of email responses <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/10/41196856/heres-how-mark-cubans-drunken-splurge-of-125-000-turned-into-a-profitable-investment">before he even gets out of bed</a>.
What Happened: Cuban, known for his preference for concise communication over lengthy meetings or phone calls, begins his official day&nbsp;between 6:30 and 7 a.m.&nbsp;He spends a significant chunk of his day, approximately eight to ten hours, on his phone or laptop.
In an interview <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBxSEVz4dAY">with</a> People, Cuban acknowledged that his routine is somewhat of a luxury.
While starting the&nbsp;day with emails and texts&nbsp;may not be beneficial for everyone&#8217;s mental health, for Cuban, it aids in streamlining his schedule and communications, thereby reducing unnecessary calls and emails.
"A lot of people ask about my daily routine, and you're going to be shocked. I look at my phone or I'm looking at a laptop and I'm on there, eight, nine, 10 hours a day," he told the outlet. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42380812/mark-cuban-shares-the-one-thing-he-splurged-on-after-striking-it-rich-im-not-a-big-spender">Mark Cuban Shares The One Thing He Splurged On After Striking It Rich: &#8216;I&#8217;M Not A Big Spender&#8217;</a>
He was attracted to entrepreneurship for the freedom it offered in controlling his own schedule. &#8220;The whole value of being in this position is just being able to control your time. It's the one asset you can't control,&#8221; Cuban remarked.
Why It Matters: Mark Cuban, who claims to get roughly seven&nbsp;hours of sleep per night, maintains a consistent routine. After waking up,&nbsp;he eats breakfast, works out, and checks his email&nbsp;again. &#8220;Rinse and repeat,&#8221; said&nbsp;Cuban.
His unconventional routine sheds light on the diverse approaches successful entrepreneurs take towards productivity and time management. 
While early rising is often associated with success, Cuban&#8217;s routine emphasizes the importance of individual preferences and the effective use of one&#8217;s time over adhering to conventional norms.
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This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

Mark Cuban's Unconventional Morning Routine: 'You're Going To Be Shocked'

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/40799246/elon-musks-ex-wife-and-mom-of-5-says-he-was-willing-to-give-up-his-fortune-for-space-goals-even-">Elon Musk</a> doesn't hold back when it comes to Apple. From calling the company the "Tesla Graveyard" to criticizing its AI plans and reflecting on his unpleasant encounter with Steve Jobs, Musk's comments make it clear that the rivalry between these tech giants is personal, professional and competitive.
Back in 2015, during an interview with the German newspaper Handelsblatt, Musk mocked Apple's hiring practices. Referring to its recruitment of former Tesla employees, he said:
"They have hired people we've fired. We always jokingly call Apple the ‘Tesla Graveyard.' If you don't make it at Tesla, you <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/24/02/36953481/elon-musk-almost-sold-tesla-to-google-for-11-billion-but-he-called-the-deal-off-when-he-no-longer-ne">work at Apple</a>. I'm not kidding."
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This came from reports that Apple was working on its electric vehicle project, "Titan." Musk didn't stop at staffing digs; he also questioned Apple's ability to break into the auto industry, saying, "Did you ever take a look at the Apple Watch? No, It's good that Apple is moving and investing in this direction. But cars are very complex compared to phones or smartwatches. You can't just go to a supplier like Foxconn and say: Build me a car."
At the time, Apple declined to comment.
Musk's critiques haven't just been aimed at Apple's business strategies. In an interview with GQ that same year, he recalled meeting Steve Jobs at a party before Jobs' death in 2011. The encounter wasn't what Musk had hoped for. "[The] one time I met Steve Jobs, he was kind of a jerk," Musk said.&nbsp;
See Also: If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/arrived-private-credit-fund">7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it</a>?
He later tried to soften his remark, explaining that his observation was based on a "personal experience." He added that <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/11/42154628/larry-page-google-co-founder-said-hed-leave-his-fortune-to-elon-musk-over-charity-because-of-his-plans-to-go-to-mars-to-back-up-humanity">Larry Page</a>, cofounder of Google, had introduced him to Jobs several years earlier and Jobs may not have even known who he was then.
Fast-forward to today and Musk's criticisms of Apple have shifted to its push into artificial intelligence. After Apple announced updates to Siri that included integration with OpenAI's ChatGPT, Musk voiced concerns about user privacy and security. Writing on his platform, X, he called the collaboration "an unacceptable security violation" and accused Apple of having "no clue what's actually going on."
"It's patently absurd that Apple isn't smart enough to make their own AI, yet is somehow capable of ensuring that OpenAI will protect your security &amp; privacy!" Musk wrote. He even suggested banning Apple devices if the company integrates OpenAI at the operating system level.
Trending: The global games market is projected to generate $272B by the end of the year —<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/gameflip"> for $0.55/share, this VC-backed startup with a 7M+ userbase gives investors easy access to this asset market.</a>
Apple, for its part, told CNBC that the integration with OpenAI is optional and assured users that data shared with ChatGPT would not be logged without explicit permission. The company also noted that it's working on its own AI.
These exchanges highlight the unique blend of competition and critique that defines Musk's approach to rivals like Apple. He's quick to throw jabs, but his comments also point to bigger debates – about privacy, talent wars and whether some companies are overextending themselves into areas where others already dominate.
Despite the drama, Tesla and Apple continue to thrive. Musk's words remind us that the tech world is as much about personality clashes as it is about innovation.
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Elon Musk 'Jokingly' Refers To Apple As The 'Tesla Graveyard' And Says Steve Jobs Was 'Kind Of A Jerk' To Him When They Met At A Party

In a surprising development over the past weekend, one of the world&#8217;s largest cryptocurrency exchanges experienced an unusual surge in Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/11/42154900/crypto-expert-who-called-2022-market-crash-warns-about-bitcoin">activity</a>.
What Happened: Whale Alert, a service that tracks crypto transactions, recorded a series of large transfers, indicating over a billion dollars&#8217; worth of Bitcoin moving between wallets. 
A notable transaction involved 500 BTC, equivalent to $50 million, being transferred from Binance to an unidentified wallet, followed by an almost identical&nbsp;return transaction of 499 BTC&nbsp;worth $50.9 million back to Binance.
Several other large-scale transfers were observed,&nbsp;with millions more in Bitcoin&nbsp;value being exchanged. Some&nbsp;transactions involved thousands of BTC&nbsp;being exchanged between anonymous wallets.&nbsp;
<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"> 
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">&#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; 4,998 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> (509,873,063 USD) transferred from unknown wallet to unknown wallet<a href="https://t.co/FWmj8V4cIJ">https://t.co/FWmj8V4cIJ</a>
&mdash; Whale Alert (@whale_alert) <a href="https://twitter.com/whale_alert/status/1868228347265720555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Significant transactions included 2,600 BTC worth approximately&nbsp;$265 million, 3,000 BTC equivalent&nbsp;to $305.8 million, and 4,998&nbsp;BTC worth over half a&nbsp;billion&nbsp;dollars being moved between various&nbsp;unknown addresses.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42496937/analyst-bitcoins-potential-surge-to-800000-in-2025-tied-to-trumps-policies-says-this-analyst">Analyst: Bitcoin&#8217;s Potential Surge To $800,000 In 2025 Tied To Trump&#8217;s Policies, Says This Analyst</a>
<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">&#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; 499 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> (50,928,938 USD) transferred from unknown wallet to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Binance?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Binance</a><a href="https://t.co/sWhTUNqc6W">https://t.co/sWhTUNqc6W</a>
&mdash; Whale Alert (@whale_alert) <a href="https://twitter.com/whale_alert/status/1868130766716117272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
Another noteworthy transaction involved 1,000 BTC ($102.9 million) being moved&nbsp;from Bybit to an unknown&nbsp;wallet. These transfers coincided with Bitcoin&#8217;s price climbing&nbsp;over 1.5%, reaching a high&nbsp;of $103,000. 
<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">&#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; &#x1f6a8; 3,000 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BTC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BTC</a> (306,030,199 USD) transferred from unknown wallet to unknown new wallet<a href="https://t.co/XTV8ZkDPrc">https://t.co/XTV8ZkDPrc</a>
&mdash; Whale Alert (@whale_alert) <a href="https://twitter.com/whale_alert/status/1868228451687186508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
High-volume movements like these&nbsp;often accompany shifts in market&nbsp;sentiment or strategic decisions by&nbsp;institutional players.
Why It Matters: The scale and anonymity of these transactions, particularly on a Sunday, a typically quieter day for trading, suggest strategic planning&nbsp;as the market prepares for&nbsp;the week ahead. 
This unusual activity could indicate a potential shift in market dynamics or a strategic move by large-scale investors. 
The anonymity of the transactions further adds to the intrigue, raising questions about the identities of the players involved and their potential impact on the market.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42380983/this-analyst-says-bitcoin-could-reach-200k-by-end-of-2025">This Analyst Says Bitcoin Could Reach $200K By End of 2025</a>

Massive Crypto Exchange Witnesses Unusual $100 Million Bitcoin Activity

High home prices and stubbornly steep mortgage interest rates have put homeownership out of reach for many Americans. Wall Street has seized upon this, funding large swathes of luxury single-family suburban homes with everything an owner could want except a large down payment, mortgage and a deed in their name.&nbsp;
For generations, the norm in American towns and cities was that the best suburban communities, with the best schools, where affluent homeowners dominated, did not have many – if any – rental properties. That is now changing as millennials with decent jobs have found themselves priced out of homeownership in the neighborhoods where they want to live. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/reit/24/11/42236108/high-yield-reits-to-watch-three-wall-street-approved-sp-500-gems">Real estate investment trusts</a> such as AvalonBay Communities have taken up the slack, building large master-planned rental communities that replicate towny suburban neighborhoods.&nbsp;
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According to the Wall Street Journal, AvalonBay purchased 126 build-to-rent townhomes in Bee Cave, Texas, for $49 million. The firm plans to invest over $1 billion in the build-to-rent sector.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Renter Nation Beckons</h2>
"We think we're really in the early stages of what could be a pretty significant, almost new asset class," AvalonBay Chief Investment Officer Matt Birenbaum told the Wall Street Journal.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/08/40183206/avalon-bay-continues-residential-reit-hot-streak-with-q2-2024-earnings">AvalonBay</a> is part of a growing group of investors that includes Blackstone, Invitation Homes and Pretium Partners, who have realized that amid a housing crisis, renting is a far more affordable option for many would-be younger homeowners. The data backs them up:&nbsp;
See Also: During market downturns, investors are learning that unlike equities, these<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/connect-invest-real-estate-notes-y2"> high-yield real estate notes that pay 7.5% &#8211; 9% are protected by resilient assets, buffering against losses.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Renter Pool Outpaces Home Ownership</h2>
For the first time in over twenty years, the growth of the U.S. renter pool has outpaced that of homeowner households for the past four quarters, according to a Redfin analysis of U.S. census data. Additionally, the National Association of Realtors' analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data shows that from 2021 to 2023, the share of build-to-rent housing starts doubled to 10% of overall single-family housing. In the third quarter of 2024, new renter households increased at three times the rate of homeowner households.
According to a CBRE report from earlier in the year, the average monthly mortgage payment for a new home is 38% more expensive than apartment rent. Although homeowners have the added advantage of building equity while they live in a home, much of the initial mortgage payment period goes toward interest. With an<a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/americans-say-its-harder-to-find-a-job-so-why-arent-economists-worried-yet-130033148.html"> </a>unstable job market, many Americans feel insecure about getting hitched to a long-term financial commitment.
Trending: Unlock the hidden potential of commercial real estate —<a href="https://equitymultiple.com/benzinga?invite=benzinga&amp;utm_campaign=product-promotion-earn&amp;utm_source=yahooFinance&amp;utm_medium=affiliate&amp;utm_content=unlockboost-yahoo"> This platform allows individuals to invest in commercial real estate offering a 12% target yield with a bonus 1% return boost today!</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">All The Trappings Of An Upscale Suburban Community</h2>
Land availability in the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/06/39276264/how-one-sunbelt-city-granted-more-building-permits-than-an-entire-state">Sunbelt</a> states has made them a favorite for developers and investors. There is space to create suburban neighborhoods with backyards, balconies, patios, a communal pool and a gym. An on-site maintenance team makes for a resort-like living experience. Security and cameras make tenants feel secure about leaving for trips. However, mass rental communities do come with a downside. In August, the DOJ sued rental management software company RealPage for its algorithmic pricing, which the government alleged monopolized the market and decreased competition, forcing prices up. However, the case has now<a href="https://therealdeal.com/texas/dallas/2024/12/04/realpage-asks-court-to-dismiss-antitrust-lawsuit/"> </a>been dropped as President-elect Trump is expected to de-emphasize antitrust enforcement.
With interest rates showing no marked decrease, investors and developers behind the build-to-rent communities feel they have an open floor with little competition.
"We are not competing with individuals trying to buy individual homes in the private market," Matt Birenbaum said.
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Wall Street Pours Billions Into Build-To-Rent Communities, Betting Big Against Home Ownership Amid High Prices and Interest Rates

The price of&nbsp;Shiba Inu (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/shib/usd">SHIB</a>), the second-largest&nbsp;meme coin, is predicted to see a significant uptick, says renowned cryptocurrency analyst Zach Humphries.
What Happened:&nbsp;Humphries foresees&nbsp;a five- to six-fold price&nbsp;surge for SHIB, given the current market dynamics. The analyst, a highly regarded figure in the Shiba Inu community, underscored the increasing momentum of SHIB and its potential to ride on the coattails of Ethereum&#8217;s growth.
In a video <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uNgVGxZmmc">post</a> on YouTube, Humphries delved into SHIB&#8217;s technical, emphasizing the potential to breach the $0.00002960 resistance level. He proposed that this could trigger a bullish rally, possibly leading to a sixfold gain if Ethereum hits the $7,000–$8,000 range.
"Shib and Pepe are primed and ready to go. I think it's coming. Ethereum is starting to show signs, it's quiet right now, but it won't be quiet for very long," he said. 
On-chain data from IntoTheBlock reveals a steep 82% increase&nbsp;in SHIB's Large Holders Netflow&nbsp;within the past day, with&nbsp;2.4 trillion SHIB worth approximately $72 million moving&nbsp;into whale wallets. This surge&nbsp;often signals reduced selling pressure, setting the stage for upward momentum.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42378684/shiba-inus-208-surge-this-year-sparks-predictions-of-top-10-crypto-ranking-in-2025">Shiba Inu&#8217;s 208% Surge This Year Sparks Predictions Of Top 10 Crypto Ranking In 2025</a>
Humphries further said, "If SHIB breaks that $0.2960 level, look out… we could start to make another push back into the mid-threes,"&nbsp;he stated, adding&nbsp;"I think as long as eth gets to seven to $8,000, we're probably getting a you know 10x out of PEPE and probably a five to six out of SHIB minimum."
At the time of writing,&nbsp;SHIB was trading at $0.00002729,&nbsp;reflecting close to 3% drop in&nbsp;the past 24 hours.
Why It Matters: The predicted surge in SHIB&#8217;s price comes at a time when the cryptocurrency market is experiencing significant volatility. The potential for a five- to six-fold increase in SHIB&#8217;s value could attract new investors and further establish SHIB as a major player in the meme coin market. 
The anticipated growth of Ethereum, which SHIB is expected to benefit from, could also contribute to a bullish rally for the meme coin. 
The increase&nbsp;in SHIB's Large Holders Netflow&nbsp;is another positive sign, indicating a decrease in selling pressure and a potential for price growth.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42256519/shiba-inu-soars-to-eight-month-high-up-13-as-meme-coins-rally" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shiba Inu Soars To Eight-Month High, Up 13% as Meme Coins Rally</a>

$SHIB

Crypto Analyst: Shiba Inu Price Set For Massive Surge, Could Go Up Sixfold

Recent surveys from Nationwide and Fidelity Investments reveal the financial regrets and resolutions that Americans are taking <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/12/42430772/janet-yellen-warns-trump-tariffs-could-undermine-confidence-in-financial-markets-and-raise-american-household-costs">with them into 2025.</a>
The data points to significant gaps in financial planning that should reshape how financial advisors approach client relationships in 2025, <a href="https://www.investmentnews.com/retirement-planning/what-financial-regrets-and-resolutions-are-americans-carrying-into-2025/258601">InvestmentNews</a> recently reported.
The most pressing concern emerges from Nationwide&#8217;s Protected Retirement Survey, where an overwhelming 82% of Americans over 45 regret that they hadn&#8217;t planned for retirement seriously earlier in their life. This statistic should serve as a wake-up call for advisors to engage clients earlier and more comprehensively, and to help existing clients look into ways to &#8220;catch up.&#8221; 
Rather than waiting for clients to seek guidance, advisors need to take the initiative in reaching out to younger professionals, helping them understand compound interest, and developing robust income protection strategies before retirement concerns become urgent.
The Fidelity Annual Resolutions Study highlights another crucial area demanding advisor attention: emergency preparedness. With 72% of Americans reporting financial setbacks in 2024 and 46% needing to tap into emergency funds, advisors must shift from focusing solely on long-term goals to helping clients build resilient financial foundations. This means developing comprehensive emergency funding strategies alongside traditional retirement planning.
Advisors should note the changing client mindset toward conservative financial goals, with one-third of resolution-makers preferring more modest targets for 2025. This trend, coupled with 38% of respondents citing unexpected expenses as their primary concern, suggests advisors need to adjust their approach. 
Instead of pursuing aggressive growth strategies, many clients may benefit more from balanced plans that emphasize stability and risk management.
The silver lining is that 68% of Americans feel financially stable or stronger than last year, with 65% expressing optimism about 2025. Advisors can build on this positive sentiment by helping clients transform their financial regrets into actionable plans. 
This means moving beyond traditional portfolio management to provide comprehensive financial guidance that addresses both immediate concerns and long-term goals, while ensuring clients have adequate protection against unexpected setbacks.
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</ul>
Photo: Shutterstock

Financial Advisors

Education

General

Americans Regret Retirement Prep As Advisors Rethink 2025 Strategies

When Elon Musk took to X to <a href="https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1864683112057213028">question</a> why Americans aren't &#8220;getting their money's worth&#8221; despite the United States leading the world in health care administrative costs, Mark Cuban stepped in with some tough truths. Cuban, known for his straight talk and deep dive into health care reform, gave Musk and other CEOs a crash course on how their decisions directly impact health care costs and quality in the U.S.
"The key is the contracts CEOs of self-insured companies sign," Cuban wrote in response to Musk's tweet. He explained that many of these contracts, especially with Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs), are at the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40560002/governments-suing-pharmacy-benefit-managers-over-insulin-prices-have-long-benefited-from-their-r">root of spiraling costs and poor care</a>.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/cd-valet-growth">CD Popularity Soars: Over 50 Million Americans Embrace Safe Savings with 5–10% Annual Growth</a></li>
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<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">The key is the contracts CEOs of self insured companies sign. You may not understand why, but the healthcare insurance and PBM contracts YOU have signed for Tesla, SpaceX , <a href="https://twitter.com/X?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@X</a>, along with CEOs of other big companies , have more impact on healthcare costs and quality of care… <a href="https://t.co/5RbX3wLBRv">https://t.co/5RbX3wLBRv</a>
&mdash; Mark Cuban (@mcuban) <a href="https://twitter.com/mcuban/status/1864785125227032764?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What's Wrong With PBM Contracts?</h2>
Cuban laid out seven major issues with typical PBM agreements that affect not only companies like Musk's Tesla and SpaceX but also their employees and families:
<ol>
<li>No control over claims data: Companies don't get full access to the data about what's being billed or paid.</li>
<li>Restricted formularies: PBMs control which medications are covered, often prioritizing profits over health.</li>
<li>Overpriced &#8220;Specialty Drugs&#8221;: These are often marked up without justification.</li>
<li>Rebates come at a cost: "Rebates" paid by pharmaceutical companies ultimately increase employee deductibles and co-pays, hitting the sickest and oldest the hardest.</li>
<li>Harming independent pharmacies: PBMs often reimburse small pharmacies less than the cost of brand-name drugs, driving many out of business.</li>
<li>No manufacturer collaboration: Companies can't directly work with drug manufacturers to create targeted wellness programs.</li>
<li>Opaque contracts: Many PBM agreements include NDAs, making the system inefficient and increasing<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/07/39799717/patients-pay-the-price-as-drug-middlemen-profit-says-ftc-report-mark-cubans-take-anyone-surprise"> prices nationwide</a>.</li>
</ol>
"All of this allows the big PBMs to continue to distort the pharmacy market for literally EVERYONE," Cuban emphasized.
See Also: Warren Buffett once said, "If you don't find a way to make money while you sleep, you will work until you die."<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/warren-buffet-make-money-when-you-sleep"> Here&#8217;s how you can earn passive income with just $100.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What CEOs Can Do</h2>
Cuban didn't just highlight problems – he offered solutions. He called on Musk and other CEOs to take control by directly contracting with health care providers and working with "pass-through" PBMs that prioritize transparency and lower costs. Cuban also suggested that educating CEOs on these practices should be a priority for <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42335531/jeff-bezos-counters-elon-musk-led-doge-cost-cutting-plan-says-america-needs-growth-orientation-heres-what-the-amazon-founder-said-to-tackle-national-debt">Musk's future agency</a>, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
"It starts and ends with educating CEOs like yourself, of self-insured companies, to do what is in the best interest of their employees and families," Cuban wrote.
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He also warned about the legal risks for companies that ignore these issues, citing them as a sign of what's to come. There &#8220;will be ubiquitous class action lawsuits coming for all CEOs next," he warned.
Cuban clarified that while he might not "know cars or rockets," he knows how to fix health care. His message to Musk – and other CEOs – was straightforward: the power to change the system is in their hands. By prioritizing transparency and better contracts, they can make a massive impact on the cost and quality of health care for millions of Americans.
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Mark Cuban Says, 'I Don't Know Cars Or Rockets,' But Schools Elon Musk On How American Health Insurance Works

Zillow has named five key trends that are gaining traction among homebuyers for 2025.
What Happened: Zillow&#8217;s analysis of millions of for-sale listings in 2024 indicates that buyers are increasingly favoring homes that are eco-friendly, resilient to climate disasters, and equipped with smart home technology.
According to a report <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/home-trends-buyers-obsessed-with-in-2025-from-zillow-listings-2024-12">by</a> Business Insider, there is also a growing interest in smart, eco-friendly technology. Whole-home batteries, often paired with solar panels, are the fastest-growing sought-after feature this year, with mentions in for-sale listings up by 62% compared to last year. Electric vehicle (EV) chargers and induction cooktops are also gaining popularity.
&#8220;Technology&nbsp;has empowered homeowners to live&nbsp;more sustainably and affordably, which&nbsp;is increasingly important to prospective&nbsp;buyers,&#8221; stated&nbsp;Amanda Pendleton, Zillow&#8217;s home trends&nbsp;expert told the outlet.
As home prices continue to soar, many buyers are leaning toward smaller, more affordable homes. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/09/41100966/this-homebuilder-is-slashing-prices-in-key-cities-where-prices-soared-the-most">This Homebuilder Is Slashing Prices In Key Cities Where Prices Soared The Most</a>
The term &#8220;cozy&#8221; has seen a 35% increase in for-sale listings compared to last year. &#8220;Wellness design&#8221; is another emerging trend, with a 16% increase in listings featuring wellness-focused amenities.
Young homebuyers are showing a growing interest in vintage interior designs, with a surge in nostalgia-driven design and home libraries.&nbsp;
Zillow found that mentions of&nbsp;Victorian-era sculleries&nbsp;in for-sale listings have increased&nbsp;by 8%&nbsp;this year compared to last.
Why It Matters: The trends identified by Zillow reflect a shift in homebuyer preferences, driven by factors such as climate change, technological advancements, and changing lifestyle needs. 
The increased demand for eco-friendly and disaster-resilient homes indicates a growing awareness and concern for the environment. The rising interest in smart home technology and wellness design underscores the importance of comfort, convenience, and health in today&#8217;s living spaces. 
Furthermore, the preference for smaller homes and vintage designs suggests a shift towards affordability and nostalgia. These trends are likely to shape the future of the housing market, influencing both home design and real estate strategies.
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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.

Real Estate

Zillow's Top Trends for Homes In 2025

Love or loathe him, Trump&#8217;s political comeback has affected everything around him. The awnings on his condo towers and the hi-top sneakers bearing his name aren&#8217;t the only things shimmering in a Trumpian golden hue. The real estate in expensive <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/10/41433284/billy-joel-finally-sells-florida-mansion-after-slashing-price-by-22-million-and-waiting-6-years-for">Palm Beach</a>, surrounding his home in Mar-A-Lago, also benefits from The Donald&#8217;s return to the White House.&nbsp;
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The New York Post reported that homes in the area are going into contract for asking price faster than Trump could declare victory on election night. An 8,900-square-foot West Palm Beach waterfront penthouse at Forté on Flagler just sold for its full $33.5 million ask, despite being sold as a &#8220;gray box&#8221; – unfinished to be customized by the new owners. Sales of homes over $10 million in the area have soared in November. According to Douglas Elliman, 11 homes have sold in the last month, totaling $299.8 million – a dramatic 176% increase over last year. It&#8217;s the same in the $5 million and up range too, where three sales totaling $33.3 million contrasted sharply with one sale for $11.3 million in November 2023.&nbsp;
&#8220;We are seeing renewed attention in Palm Beach, which is undoubtedly tied to Donald Trump, whose election victory has brought even more energy to the market, along with greater certainty around long-term capital gains and a sense of stability,&#8221; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/09/41029424/douglas-ellimans-top-agent-with-3b-record-sales-speaks-on-fed-cuts-effect-on-market-rate-as-people-s">Douglas Elliman</a>&#8216;s John Reynolds, director of sales at Forté on Flagler, told the Post.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Bob Vila&#8217;s Flip and Multimillion-Dollar Palm Beach Portfolio</h2>
Multimillion-dollar Palm Beach estates are often razed in favor of brand-new constructions. That was speculation about Trump pal and Fox News host Sean Hannity&#8217;s recent<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/12/42415090/fox-tvs-sean-hannity-trades-new-york-for-a-23-5-million-florida-estate-the-latest-addition-to-his-expansive-real-estate-portfolio"> $23.5 million purchase</a>. However, TV handyman Bob Vila, best known for his home improvement shows &#8220;This Old House&#8221; and &#8220;Home Again,&#8221; chose to go a different route with his 1940s-era home purchased for $12.5 million a year ago. Rather than demolish it, Vila, 78 and his wife Diana Barrett – unsurprisingly – chose to fix and flip it, selling it for $13.375 million – a profitable way to spend his retirement.
The Vilas own another home in town and a lakefront home nearby on Everglades Island, which is listed for sale at $39.9 million. The buyer of their flip was interior designer Delphine Krakoff, who is married to fashion designer Reed Krakoff, a former creative director and President of Coach Inc. and currently the creative chairman of jewelry brand John Hardy.
Trending: This Jeff Bezos-backed startup will allow you to <a href="https://arrivedhomes.go2cloud.org/aff_c?offer_id=15&amp;aff_id=1006&amp;aff_sub=yahoo&amp;aff_sub2=byerscta100">become a landlord in just 10 minutes, with minimum investments as low as $100 for properties like the Byer House from Stranger Things.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Private Planes Are Fueling South Florida&#8217;s Booming Luxury Market</h2>
The Palm Beach luxury market has increased since the pandemic, reflecting South Florida&#8217;s generally booming high-end market. The President-elect can&#8217;t take all the credit. Part of the reason – according to<a href="https://www.realtor.com/news/trends/florida-private-jets-luxury-listings/"> realtor.com</a> – is the increased use of private jets and South Florida&#8217;s multiple private airports. Southern Florida has five of the country&#8217;s 25 busiest private jet airports.<a href="https://www.redfin.com/city/15696/FL/Riviera-Beach/housing-market"> Riviera Beach</a> is only 20 minutes from Palm Beach International Airport and home prices there have shot up an astonishing 163% since last year. The median home price in Palm Beach County is now $1.1 million.
&#8220;Private jet access is a critically important feature of the uber-wealthy lifestyle,&#8221; Cara Ameer, licensed agent with Coldwell Banker in California and Florida, told Realtor.com. &#8220;This clientele tends to own properties in multiple locations and travels frequently, so being able to get in and out easily is key, without the hassle of public airports.&#8221;
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Palm Beach Luxury Home Sales Take Off After Trump Election Win With Residents Looking Bask In Mar-A-Lago Glamor

Grant Cardone is stirring the pot again. The entrepreneur and real estate mogul <a href="https://x.com/GrantCardone/status/1866878475191324866">tweeted,</a> &#8220;U.S. inflation of 2.7% is higher than the real economy. FED is lagging and KNOWS it. Watch for a surprise .50bp cut in December.&#8221;
Cardone&#8217;s take is bold, but it's not without reason. Inflation was 2.7% as of November, slightly above the Federal Reserve&#8217;s target of 2%. Despite a series of rate hikes this year, Cardone thinks the Fed is behind the curve. And he's not alone in pointing this out.
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The Fed has been trying to cool inflation for months without tanking the economy. The central bank raised rates to their highest levels in over two decades. However, Cardone suggests this approach might not be working fast enough,<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/24/09/40985650/grant-cardone-asks-why-powell-wont-cut-another-100-points-now-says-fed-is-scared-to-reveal-how-w"> implying a major course correction could be coming.</a>
A surprise 50 basis point rate cut would be a shocker. Most analysts expect the Fed to hold steady or make modest tweaks. A big slash like this could signal serious concern about the economy's health – or a shift in strategy to stimulate growth.
Opponents of Cardone's view argue that inflation isn't the only metric the Fed considers. The labor market remains strong with unemployment near historic lows. Wage growth is also steady. For some, these are signs that the economy is holding up fine.
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Michael Feroli, chief U.S. economist at JPMorgan Chase, said recently, "Regardless of exactly what policies are introduced, a change in the party occupying the White House creates some new unknowns for the economy. This argues for a more gradual pace of interest rate cuts." J.P. Morgan Research predicts the Fed to cut rates by another 25 bp in December with cuts only once per quarter in 2025.
After all, the Fed's focus is broader than just inflation. A sudden rate cut could risk overheating the economy again.
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Others worry about credibility. A dramatic pivot might send mixed signals to markets. The Fed has worked hard to project stability and caution in recent years, but a surprise cut could disrupt that.
Still, as usual, <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/real-estate/24/05/38739746/grant-cardone-says-high-interest-rates-dont-move-the-needle-in-housing-market-supply-and-demand-do">Cardone isn't backing down.</a> His tweet hints at a deeper issue: the Fed might be reacting too slowly. &#8220;Lagging&#8221; is a strong word, suggesting that, in Cardone's eyes, the central bank is behind the times.
Whether you agree with him or not, his prediction is one to watch. The next Fed meeting in December could bring unexpected moves. A rate cut, especially one as large as 50 basis points, would ripple through markets, hitting everything from mortgages to savings accounts.
Cardone's advice? Stay tuned. If he's right, December could shake things up.
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'The Fed Is Lagging And Knows It,' Says Grant Cardone, Hinting At December Surprise Rate Slash

Artificial intelligence startup OpenAI has disclosed old emails from co-founder Elon Musk that showcae his advocacy for a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42495758/elon-musk-finds-an-unlikely-ally-in-mark-zuckerbergs-meta-in-his-fight-against-sam-altmans-openai">profit-making business model</a>.
What Happened: OpenAI made public a series of emails from Musk where he promoted the idea of the company adopting a for-profit structure.
This stands in stark contradiction to Musk&#8217;s recent public disapproval of OpenAI&#8217;s shift from a non-profit to a for-profit organization.
In a blog <a href="https://openai.com/index/elon-musk-wanted-an-openai-for-profit/">post</a>, OpenAI charged Musk with trying to suppress the startup while simultaneously developing his own AI&nbsp;competitor, xAI. 
The company also&nbsp;laid out&nbsp;a timeline of events in&nbsp;a blog&nbsp;post titled &#8220;Elon Musk wanted&nbsp;an OpenAI for profit,&#8221; asserting that Musk had indeed set up a for-profit structure back in 2017.
The emails, which date back to November 2015, show Musk expressing discontent with OpenAI&#8217;s then-non-profit structure. OpenAI alleges that both parties had agreed on transitioning to a for-profit model&nbsp;in the fall of 2017.&nbsp;
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However, when Musk couldn&#8217;t secure majority equity, he reportedly withdrew his support, predicting the company&#8217;s downfall.
The blog post from OpenAI ended with a plea for competition&nbsp;in the marketplace rather than&nbsp;the courtroom, adding another layer to this ongoing legal drama.
&#8220;Now that OpenAI is the leading AI research lab and Elon runs a competing AI company, he&#8217;s asking the court to stop us from effectively pursuing our mission,&#8221; OpenAI wrote in the post.
Why It Matters: This development is significant as it adds a new dimension to the ongoing legal battle between Musk and OpenAI. The released emails not only contradict Musk&#8217;s recent public statements but also shed light on the internal dynamics and disagreements that led to the current dispute. 
The allegations of Musk trying to suppress OpenAI while developing a competing AI project also raise questions about business ethics and competition in the tech industry. 
This saga is likely to have far-reaching implications for the AI sector, especially regarding the debate on non-profit versus for-profit structures.
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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.

Musk Backed For-Profit Direction for OpenAI, Leaked Emails Say

This weekend was packed with exciting developments in the tech and automotive industries. From&nbsp;Elon Musk&nbsp;unveiling new advancements at&nbsp;SpaceX&nbsp;to&nbsp;Tesla Inc. gearing up for a new vehicle launch, there was no shortage of news. Meanwhile,&nbsp;General Motors made a strategic decision regarding its autonomous vehicle unit, and&nbsp;Lucid Motors announced impressive range estimates for its latest SUV.
Let&#8217;s dive into the details.
SpaceX&#8217;s Starship Gets a Makeover
Elon Musk&nbsp;revealed that the upcoming version of SpaceX&#8217;s Starship spacecraft, set for its seventh test flight, boasts significant design enhancements. Musk highlighted that the new model is &#8220;lighter, easier to manufacture, and less susceptible to high heating.&#8221; These improvements are expected to enhance the spacecraft&#8217;s performance and manufacturability.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/space/24/12/42477647/elon-musk-reveals-spacexs-new-starship-spacecraft-is-easier-to-manufacture-and-less-susceptible-to-high-heating-ahead-of-7th-test-flight">Read the full article here.</a>
Tesla&#8217;s Affordable Model Q
Tesla Inc. is reportedly set to launch a new vehicle, the Model Q, in the first half of 2025. Priced below $30,000 after subsidies, the Model Q is expected to be a more affordable option for consumers. According to a report from Global China EV, the vehicle codenamed &#8220;Redwood,&#8221; will be built on Tesla&#8217;s latest platform and will be 15% smaller than the Model 3, with manufacturing costs significantly reduced.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/media/24/12/42387009/tesla-model-q-priced-below-30000-after-subsidies-to-reportedly-launch-in-first-half-of-2025">Read the full article here.</a>
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GM&#8217;s Cruise Strategy Shift
General Motors&nbsp;announced it will cease funding for its Cruise robotaxi development, opting instead to integrate the unit into its technical teams. This decision, which has drawn criticism from Cruise co-founder Kyle Vogt, is part of GM&#8217;s strategy to focus on delivering superior driving experiences efficiently. The move comes as the robotaxi market becomes increasingly competitive.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42429588/gms-cruise-exit-draws-sharp-reaction-from-co-founder-kyle-vogt-tesla-ceo-elon-musk-says-autonomous-driving-is-a-very-hard-problem">Read the full article here.</a>
Lucid&#8217;s Gravity SUV Range
Lucid Motors announced that its Gravity SUV has received an official EPA range estimate of up to 450 miles, surpassing the Tesla Model X&#8217;s range of 329 miles. However, the Gravity&#8217;s range is still less than the 512 miles offered by Lucid&#8217;s Air sedan. This new range estimate positions Gravity as a strong competitor in the electric SUV market.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/24/12/42432727/lucids-gravity-gets-official-range-estimate-higher-than-teslas-model-x-but-lower-than-its-own-air-sedan">Read the full article here.</a>
BMW&#8217;s FSD Praise Retracted
Bayerische Motoren Werke AG&nbsp;initially praised Tesla&#8217;s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system on social media, calling it &#8220;very impressive.&#8221; However, the post was removed shortly after, without any explanation. This unexpected retraction has dashed hopes of a potential licensing deal between the two automotive giants.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42452794/bmw-takes-down-appreciation-for-version-13-of-teslas-fsd-too-bad-says-musk">Read the full article here.</a>
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Photo courtesy: Shutterstock
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/ananya-gairola" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ananya Gairola</a>

Weekend Round-Up: Elon Musk's Spacex, Tesla's New Model, And More

Eric Trump, son of the President-elect and executive vice president of the Trump Organization, is solidifying his stance on cryptocurrency as a cornerstone of his <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/12/42379899/trump-fuels-bitcoin-rally-but-where-will-it-go-next-year">father's incoming administration</a>.
Speaking exclusively with Benzinga&#8216;s <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/author/bibhu-pattnaik">Bibhu Pattnaik</a>, Eric emphasized plans to work alongside his father, Donald Trump, to position the United States as the global hub for cryptocurrency. 
During his remarks, Eric criticized the current administration's handling of crypto, accusing regulators like SEC Chair Gary Gensler of waging a "holy war" against the industry. 
&#8220;The crypto community in America was under total attack by Gary Gensler and so many other people. Biden was nowhere to be found. Kamala [Harris] was nowhere to be found. They didn&#8217;t understand what crypto was. And frankly, they waged holy war against the community. And then all of a sudden my father comes in,&#8221; Eric Trump told Benzinga.
He underscored Donald Trump's support for crypto, citing his appearance at a Bitcoin conference as a pivotal moment for the industry. 
"My father wants to make America the crypto capital of the world. And he&#8217;s been very transparent about that. And the crypto community loves him in America. You know that as well as anybody. He spoke at the first Bitcoin conference and said &#8216;I stand behind you. I stand behind this community. I love this community,&#8221; he said.
Outlining a vision of a pro-crypto presidency with "sane regulation" and possible tax incentives for crypto investors, Eric Trump added, &#8220;I think there should be sane regulation. You know, and that&#8217;s what everybody wants. We&#8217;re going to make crypto great. My father said, &#8216;I&#8217;m going to have it on the balance sheet of the United States. I&#8217;m going to try and make some of it tax-free under certain parameters.&#8221;
He expressed optimism about Bitcoin and other digital currencies, describing himself as "very bullish."
While he declined to make specific predictions about Bitcoin's future value, he highlighted his own holdings, which include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and Sui. 
Also Read:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/12/42496864/exclusive-eric-trump-calls-elon-musk-albert-einstein-of-our-time-says-tesla-ceo-will-help-build-a-stronger-america"> EXCLUSIVE: Eric Trump Calls Elon Musk &#8216;Albert Einstein Of Our Time,&#8217; Says Tesla CEO Will Help Build &#8216;A Stronger America&#8217;</a>
"I love Bitcoin," he said, adding that blockchain technology has the potential to outperform traditional banking, which he described as "antiquated" and inefficient.
&#8220;And listen, I&#8217;m not going to predict it because I think it&#8217;s a really bad thing if somebody in my spot starts predicting where something&#8217;s going to go,&#8221; he added. &#8220;But I will say I&#8217;m very bullish on Bitcoin and I&#8217;m bullish on crypto.&#8221;
He stressed the need for decentralized finance (DeFi) to modernize outdated financial systems, calling it a necessary step for economic innovation. "Modern banking has left 99% of people behind," Eric said, championing blockchain as a transformative technology.
&#8220;I think that modern banking is antiquated as hell. I think modern banking has been cool to a lot of people. I think modern banking has left 99% of the people behind. It&#8217;s slow. It&#8217;s inefficient. It&#8217;s costly. And there&#8217;s nothing that&#8217;s done in modern banking that can&#8217;t be done better on blockchain. And we&#8217;re all in the crypto world. I think we&#8217;re going to do very well in the crypto world. And I think you&#8217;re going to have a great ally,&#8221; Eric Trump said.
&#8220;I saw the weaponization of government firsthand in the United States. And frankly, you know, what they did to the Bitcoiners is very much the same thing that they did to our family. They waged war on them for absolutely no reason whatsoever other than to undermine an industry that for some reason that they didn&#8217;t like. So no doubt there is no support, less support for the previous government. And I think a lot of people saw that. I think people saw what they were doing to us. And I think people saw what they were doing to that community. And they moved to my father&#8217;s face,&#8221; Eric further added. 
His comments not only highlight his commitment to the industry but also signal how the Trump family aims to leverage crypto in future political and economic policies.
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Analyst Annelies Vermeulen of Morgan Stanley maintained a Hold rating on Ferguson PLC (FERG – Research Report), boosting the price target to p15,50...

Hold Rating for Ferguson PLC Amid Modest Growth and Strategic Positioning for Market Recovery

Wells Fargo lowered the firm's price target on Ferguson (FERG) to $220 from $232 and keeps an Overweight rating on the shares. The firm agrees with...

Ferguson price target lowered to $220 from $232 at Wells Fargo

Ferguson PLC ( ($FERG) ) has issued an announcement. Ferguson Enterprises Inc. has filed a Form 10-Q with the SEC, which provides detailed insights...

Ferguson PLC Files Form 10-Q, Highlighting Key Financial Insights

In a report released yesterday, Michael Dahl from RBC Capital maintained a Buy rating on Ferguson PLC (FERG – Research Report), with a price target...

RBC Capital Sticks to Its Buy Rating for Ferguson PLC (FERG)

Baird lowered the firm's price target on Ferguson (FERG) to $225 from $230 and keeps an Outperform rating on the shares. The firm said they reporte...

Ferguson price target lowered to $225 from $230 at Baird

Truist Financial analyst Keith Hughes maintained a Buy rating on Ferguson PLC (FERG – Research Report) today. The company's shares opened today at ...

Truist Financial Keeps Their Buy Rating on Ferguson PLC (FERG)

Oppenheimer analyst Scott Schneeberger maintained a Buy rating on Ferguson PLC (FERG – Research Report) today and set a price target of $234.00. Th...

Oppenheimer Remains a Buy on Ferguson PLC (FERG)

In a report released today, Matthew Bouley from Barclays maintained a Buy rating on Ferguson PLC (FERG – Research Report), with a price target of $...

Barclays Remains a Buy on Ferguson PLC (FERG)

Barclays lowered the firm's price target on Ferguson (FERG) to $234 from $245 and keeps an Overweight rating on the shares. The company's Q1 margin...

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