Verano Holdings 株価情報 (OTC: VRNOF)

最新ニュース Verano Holdings (OTC:VRNOF) 株価情報

Verano Holdings

Verano Holdings Corp is a vertically integrated multi-state cannabis operator in the United States. The Company has two reportable segments: (i) cultivation (wholesale) and (ii) retail. The company's consumer brands include Encore, Avexia, MUV, Savvy, BITS and Verano. The company's retail dispensaries operate under brands including Zen Leaf and MUV. The company derives its revenues from Retail segment.

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CSE:TRUL

CURALEAF HLDGS INC by Curaleaf Hldgs Inc.

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TRUL

VRNOF

2024年第2四半期の大部分の大麻企業の財務業績が出揃い、その結果から興味深いトレンドが浮かび上がってきた。その1つが、米国のマルチステート・オペレーター（MSO）が供給チェーンにおけるコストと効率を改善しているという点だ。

大麻関連企業の業績　供給チェーンにおけるコストと効率が改善

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令は効率的な運営者の市場占有率の増加と持続可能なプラットフォーム構築を輝かせるだろう。第２四半期の収益を見越して、Zuanic &amp; Associatesのシニアアナリスト、Pablo Zuanic氏は、大麻市場傾向について概要を提供した。

大麻ブームか不況か　正念場の大麻市場

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JUSHI HLDGS INC CL B by Jushi Holdings Inc.

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TILT

ペンシルベニア州が最近承認した予算には、大麻企業であるJushi Holdings（OTC：JUSHF）およびTILT Holdings（OTC：TILT）のような企業にとって大きな打撃を与える、大麻の娯楽利用の合法化が除外されています。

ペンシルベニア州　大麻の娯楽利用合法化に制限掲示へ

VERANO HLDGS CORP by Verano Holdings Corp.

Verano Holdings Corp

A new Republican tax proposal backed by President Donald Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) could give every newborn in the U.S. a head start with a $1,000 investment account.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What Are MAGA Accounts?</h2>
The accounts are called &#8220;MAGA Accounts,&#8221; short for &#8220;money account for growth and advancement.&#8221; While the name echoes Trump's famous campaign slogan, the idea came from Cruz, who spent over a year promoting the concept inside the GOP and who initially used the name "Invest America."
"You can call it anything you like,&#8221; Cruz told <a href="https://www.semafor.com/article/05/12/2025/the-new-republican-maga-account-has-a-surprising-architect-ted-cruz">Semafor</a> on Monday. &#8220;What is powerful is enabling every child in America to have an <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/best-investment-accounts-for-kids">investment account</a> and a stake in the American free enterprise system.&#8221;
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Under the proposal, the federal government would contribute $1,000 to an account for every baby born between 2025 and 2028. Families, friends, and even employers could contribute up to $5,000 each year. Children wouldn't be able to access the funds until they turn 18, and the money would accumulate interest.
Cruz said the goal is to help more Americans benefit from the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/market-summary/25/05/45399940/warren-buffett-shows-how-patience-pays-98-of-his-160-billion-wealth-came-after-turning-65-thanks-the-power-of-compound-interest">power of compound interest</a> and grow up with a financial stake in the economy. "This will give everyone a stake," he said. &#8220;When every child has invested, it's no longer an abstract idea.&#8221;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Trump's Imprint</h2>
The MAGA accounts are part of a much larger piece of legislation dubbed &#8220;THE ONE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL&#8221; — in all capital letters. Trump used the phrase on <a href="https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/114495946485549840">Truth Social</a>, writing, &#8220;The Bill is GREAT.&#8221;
Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl-scaling-fast-from-spacex-orders-to-600-homes-built-this-60k-foldable-home-may-be-the-future-of-housing">this is your last chance to become an investor for $0.80 per share.</a>
The <a href="https://waysandmeans.house.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SMITMO_017_xml.pdf">bill</a> includes around $4.9 trillion in tax cuts and aims to follow through on Trump's campaign promises. It includes breaks for tipped and overtime workers, retirement-age Americans, and new taxes on private university endowments. It also includes significant cuts to programs like Medicaid, food stamps, and clean energy initiatives.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cruz vs. &#8216;Baby Bonds&#8217;</h2>
Cruz emphasized that the MAGA accounts are different from Democratic &#8220;baby bond&#8221; proposals, which are more restrictive and don't allow private market investments. &#8220;That is just a government program,&#8221; Cruz said. &#8220;This is very much designed to get the next generation to invest in the market.&#8221;
Business leaders appear to be on board. Investor Brad Gerstner told <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpWyUqBYJfA">CNBC</a> on May 5 that companies like Uber (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>), Dell (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DELL#NYSE">DELL</a>), Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>), and Oracle (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORCL#NYSE">ORCL</a>) are already interested in contributing to their employees&#8217; children's accounts. &#8220;You will have an account in the S&amp;P 500 that&#8217;s worth upwards of $50,000 to $60,000. It changes the game by getting everybody. This is the president&#8217;s Main Street agenda.&#8221;
See Also: Maximize saving for your retirement and cut down on taxes: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/wideradvisor-retirement-planning">Schedule your free call with a financial advisor to start your financial journey – no cost, no obligation</a>.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What's Next?</h2>
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) is pushing for passage by Memorial Day. If it clears the House, the Senate is expected to make revisions.
Meanwhile, Democrats have slammed the broader bill, especially the proposed Medicaid cuts. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) told Semafor, "Even a stopped watch is right twice a day,&#8221; giving faint praise to Cruz's MAGA account idea while criticizing the rest of the GOP proposal.
Read Next:
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<li>The team behind $6B+ in licensing deals is now building the next billion-dollar IP empire — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elf-labs-ym?v=123">invest early at $2.25/share.</a></li>
<li>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.30/share!</a></li>
</ul>
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'The One, Big, Beautiful Bill' Would Create 'MAGA' Savings Accounts—With A $1,000 Gift From The Government At Birth

These large-cap stocks were the best performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>CoreWeave, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWV#NASDAQ">CRWV</a>) stock surged 56.32%  after Nvidia disclosed it added a stake in the company via a 13F filing equating to approximately 24.18 million shares. JP Morgan and Needham also raised their respective <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45472274" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecasts on the stock</a>.</li>
<li>Super Micro Computer, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SMCI#NASDAQ">SMCI</a>) stock escalated 44.26% after the company announced that it entered into a strategic partnership under a <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45471297" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">memorandum of understanding</a> with DataVolt.</li>
<li>Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/COIN#NASDAQ">COIN</a>) stock jumped 33.68% after the company announced a partnership with Webull Pay to power crypto experiences. Additionally, Benchmark raised its price forecast <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45471661" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">on the stock from $252 to $301</a>.</li>
<li>NRG Energy, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NRG#NYSE">NRG</a>) shares rose 33.41% after announcing a $12 billion acquisition of LS (Luminus Systems) <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45388224" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Power&#8217;s generation assets</a>.</li>
<li>Astera Labs, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ALAB#NASDAQ">ALAB</a>) stock rose 27.19% amid overall market strength following softer-than-expected April inflation readings. Additionally, investors continue to weigh the progress of the U.S.-China trade and President Trump&#8217;s Middle East trip.</li>
<li>First Solar, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FSLR#NASDAQ">FSLR</a>) shares increased 26.86% on reports indicating the House GOP budget will cut but not remove <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45385748" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wind and solar tax credits</a>.</li>
<li>Exelixis, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EXEL#NASDAQ">EXEL</a>) stock grew 25.52% after the company recently reported better-than-expected financial results and raised its FY25 sales guidance with its midpoint above estimates. The company, acting as a collaboration partner of Invenra, initiated the dose-escalation stage of the first-in-human Phase 1 clinical study of XB628. Citigroup raised its <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45418036" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">price forecast from $45 to $56</a>.</li>
<li>Rocket Lab USA, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RKLB#NASDAQ">RKLB</a>) stock rose 24.67%. The company announced that NASA had chosen it to launch its Aspera mission and disclosed the return of its Pioneer spacecraft <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45434506" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">to Varda Space Industries</a>.</li>
<li>Hims &amp; Hers Health, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HIMS#NYSE">HIMS</a>) has gained 24.42% in the last week. The stock has rallied since reporting strong first-quarter financial results on May 5. However, the company has a high short float and may be <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45297555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">facing a short squeeze</a>.</li>
<li>On Holding AG (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ONON#NYSE">ONON</a>) shares escalated 21.71% after the company reported its first-quarter results, and analysts<a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45413809" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> revised the price forecast</a>.</li>
<li>Gap, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GAP#NYSE">GAP</a>) stock gained 20.87% after the U.S. and China agreed to reduce most tariffs on each other&#8217;s goods temporarily. A reduction in tariffs could alleviate supply chain and macroeconomic uncertainty and help boost consumer sentiment.</li>
</ol>
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COIN

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Hims & Hers Health, Inc. Class A Common Stock

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ONON

RKLB

SMCI

CoreWeave, Super Micro Computer And Coinbase Are Among Top 11 Large-Cap Gainers Last Week (May 12-May 16): Are The Others In Your Portfolio?

Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/META#NASDAQ">META</a>) urged a federal judge to dismiss the significant antitrust case filed by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) during an ongoing trial that could potentially lead to the breakup of the tech behemoth.
What Happened: Meta has requested the court to dismiss the FTC&#8217;s antitrust case. The FTC has contended that Meta unlawfully dominates the social media market, particularly those apps that rely on friends-and-family connections.
Meta has refuted these allegations in a court filing, arguing that the FTC&#8217;s attorneys have inaccurately&nbsp;defined the market. The company&nbsp;maintains that it faces robust competition from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Elon Musk&#8217;s X, reports <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/05/16/business/mark-zuckerbergs-meta-asks-judge-to-throw-out-ftcs-antitrust-case/">The </a>New York Post. 
&#8220;After&nbsp;five weeks of trial, it&nbsp;is clear that the FTC&nbsp;has failed to meet the&nbsp;legal standard required under antitrust&nbsp;law,&#8221; a Meta spokesperson stated on Friday. The company intends to present its case, underlining that Instagram competes with other popular apps like TikTok, YouTube, and X.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/05/45338301/zuckerberg-foresees-tech-industry-revolution-with-ai-an-ai-that-can-effectively-be-a-sort-of-midlevel-engineer">Zuckerberg Foresees Tech Industry Revolution With AI: &#8216;An AI That Can Effectively Be a Sort of Midlevel Engineer&#8217;</a>
The FTC&#8217;s case is predicated on the argument that&nbsp;Meta acquired Instagram and WhatsApp&nbsp;as part of a &#8220;buy or bury&#8221;&nbsp;strategy to prevent them from&nbsp;threatening its empire. The FTC&nbsp;is seeking to persuade&nbsp;US District Judge James Boasberg&nbsp;to compel&nbsp;Zuckerberg to spin off the&nbsp;two apps.
The nonjury trial is anticipated to conclude in June,&nbsp;followed by final briefs filed&nbsp;by both FTC and Meta.&nbsp;If Judge Boasberg&nbsp;sides with the FTC and&nbsp;determines Meta has a monopoly,&nbsp;a second trial will be&nbsp;held to determine appropriate remedies.
Why It Matters: This trial is of significant importance as it could potentially reshape the tech industry and set a precedent for future antitrust cases. The outcome of this case could influence how tech giants operate and acquire smaller companies. 
Furthermore, it could also impact the competitive landscape of the social media market. The FTC&#8217;s push for Meta to spin off Instagram and WhatsApp indicates a broader regulatory effort to curb the power of tech giants. 
This case is being closely watched by industry stakeholders, regulators, and consumers alike.
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/22/08/28389257/mark-zuckerberg-is-a-bad-person-he-is-creepy-controlling-this-is-what-metas-new-ai-bot-says-about-hi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mark Zuckerberg Is ‘Kind Of Creepy And Controlling' – This Is What Meta's New AI Chatbot Says About Its Boss</a>
Image: Shutterstock/Skorzewiak

Tech

Meta Pleads With Judge To Dismiss FTC's Antitrust Case in High-Stakes Trial

Bitcoin (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) has surged beyond the&nbsp;$105,000 mark, setting off a $250 billion rally in the wider cryptocurrency market.
On Sunday, Bitcoin&#8217;s climb to $105,424.45 has pushed its market value over $2.05 trillion and significantly lifted altcoin prices. 
According to reports, this surge follows a mix of inflation data, increased confidence regarding interest rate cuts, and significant&nbsp;fund inflows from both retail&nbsp;and institutional investors.
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="656" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/18152345/Screenshot-2025-05-19-005306-1024x656.png" alt="" class="wp-image-918981" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/18152345/Screenshot-2025-05-19-005306-1024x656.png 1024w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/18152345/Screenshot-2025-05-19-005306-300x192.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/18152345/Screenshot-2025-05-19-005306-768x492.png 768w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/18152345/Screenshot-2025-05-19-005306.png 1052w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
The rise in Bitcoin&#8217;s price,&nbsp;a 37.5% increase from its&nbsp;April low of less than $75,000, is propelled by a combination of strong&nbsp;technical breakouts and positive macro&nbsp;conditions. 
Open interest in Bitcoin futures has reached&nbsp;a record high of over&nbsp;$36 billion, indicating growing trader conviction.
The broader crypto market is&nbsp;benefiting from Bitcoin&#8217;s surge, with total capitalization exceeding $2.65 trillion—an increase of&nbsp;over $250 billion in just&nbsp;five trading days. 
Bitcoin&#8217;s dominance is now over 53.2%, its highest in more than&nbsp;three years, as capital continues&nbsp;to shift&nbsp;into large-cap digital assets amid&nbsp;increasing&nbsp;regulatory clarity in major markets.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45335892/decade-old-bitcoin-whale-emerges-transfers-207-51-million-btc-with-nearly-112000-profit">Decade-Old Bitcoin Whale Emerges, Transfers $207.51 Million BTC With Nearly 112,000% Profit</a>
Several&nbsp;macroeconomic and market catalysts are&nbsp;contributing to Bitcoin's parabolic move. These converging factors seem&nbsp;to have set the stage&nbsp;for Bitcoin's current breakout and&nbsp;may continue to support price&nbsp;appreciation in the short to&nbsp;medium term.
While Bitcoin is grabbing headlines, altcoins are also making a comeback.&nbsp;Ethereum (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/eth/usd">ETH</a>) jumped 12% in&nbsp;24 hours, breaking over important&nbsp;resistance at $6,000.
Analysts monitoring the $110,000–$115,000 area&nbsp;as the next main obstacle&nbsp;believe Bitcoin's breach over $105K&nbsp;could pave the way for&nbsp;more upside. 
The present increase&nbsp;could still have legs given&nbsp;ETF inflows ongoing and macro&nbsp;conditions staying good; particularly, if&nbsp;Ethereum ETFs become popular in&nbsp;the next weeks.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/05/45485038/robert-kiyosaki-predicts-bitcoin-to-reach-250000-buy-more-do-not-sell">Robert Kiyosaki Predicts Bitcoin To Reach $250,000: &#8216;Buy More. Do Not Sell.&#8217;</a>
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Coverage of Bitcoin, Etherum, Ripple and all the latest digital currencies.

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$BTC

$ETH

Bitcoin Skyrockets Past $105,000 Mark, Triggers $250 Billion Crypto Market Rally

JPMorgan Chase&#8216;s chief global strategist suggests that the US economy, while likely to dodge a recession, should brace for slower growth.
What Happened:&nbsp;David Kelly, the chief global strategist at&nbsp;JPMorgan Chase &amp; Co.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JPM#NYSE">JPM</a>), anticipates a deceleration in the US economy due to&nbsp;tariffs and other economic factors. 
Despite these challenges, Kelly remains optimistic about the economy&#8217;s resilience to stave off a full-scale recession.
&#8220;No, we&#8217;re not [seeing impacts now]. At the moment, I&#8217;d have to say the tariff pullback and also this big tax bill, which is going to put stimulus into 2026 and a little stimulus in 2025, that takes us from more than likely going to have a recession to less than likely we&#8217;re going to have a recession this year,&#8221; Kelly stated during an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ghzpDDdne8">with</a> CNBC.
However, Kelly also cautioned about a potential dip in consumer spending due to economic uncertainty and possible inflation resulting from tariff impacts. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44891073/donald-trumps-trade-war-jpmorgan-predicts-deals-higher-taxes-and-potential-recession-avoidance">Donald Trump&#8217;s Trade War: JPMorgan Predicts Deals, Higher Taxes and Potential Recession Avoidance</a>
He said, &#8220;Consumers&nbsp;are resilient, but there comes&nbsp;a point where you squeeze&nbsp;them enough in terms of&nbsp;tariffs, you&#8217;re&nbsp;collecting on the student loans&nbsp;again, and then just the&nbsp;general worry, and, of course,&nbsp;the cutbacks to the government&nbsp;sector, all these things I&nbsp;think are beginning to weigh&nbsp;on consumers. I think it is slowing the economy down, still not willing to say recession.&#8221;
Why It Matters: Kelly&#8217;s forecast comes at a time when the US economy is grappling with multiple challenges, including tariffs and economic uncertainty. 
His prediction of slower growth, while avoiding a recession, suggests a mixed economic outlook. The potential contraction in consumer spending and inflation from tariff impacts underscore the need for strategic economic planning and policy-making. 
While the resilience of the US economy is a positive sign, the anticipated slowdown underscores the importance of continued vigilance and proactive economic measures.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/04/44780349/trumps-tariff-policies-fuel-economic-concerns-economists-expect-slower-growth-ahead" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Trump's Tariff Policies Fuel Economic Concerns, Economists Expect Slower Growth Ahead</a>
Image: Shutterstock

JPMorgan Chase: US Economy Likely To Skirt Recession, Forecasts Sluggish Growth

Elon Musk is facing a lawsuit filed by three swing state voters. The plaintiffs allege that Musk failed to fulfill his promise of payment&nbsp;for signing a petition from&nbsp;his political action committee, America PAC.
What Happened: The lawsuit claims that Musk had committed to paying voters in seven states&nbsp;for signing a petition and&nbsp;referring others to do the&nbsp;same, in the lead-up to the 2024 presidential election. 
The plaintiffs assert that&nbsp;America PAC&nbsp;did not meet its contractual obligations by failing to fully compensate the petition-signers.
The lawsuit, lodged in a federal court in Pennsylvania, anticipates the inclusion of more than &#8220;100 class members&#8221;, with the total amount owed exceeding $5 million, <a href="https://fortune.com/2025/05/16/elon-musk-america-pac-lawsuit-petition-signature-payments-2024-presidential-election/">reports</a> Fortune.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">For every person you refer who is a swing state voter, you get $47! Easy money. <a href="https://t.co/5jCNuXIaui">https://t.co/5jCNuXIaui</a>
&mdash; Kekius Maximus (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1843133043961381178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&#8220;This&nbsp;case is about a broken&nbsp;promise: Elon Musk promised supporters&nbsp;that they would be paid&nbsp;for signing a petition and&nbsp;referring others to do the&nbsp;same,&#8221; stated Shannon Liss-Riordan, the plaintiffs&#8217; representative.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45484920/more-than-a-feud-elon-musk-bill-gates-spat-sheds-light-on-competing-views-of-efficiency">More Than a Feud: Elon Musk-Bill Gates Spat Sheds Light on Competing Views of Efficiency</a>
America PAC, which Musk established in May 2024, raised over $200 million for Donald Trump&#8217;s presidential campaign. A similar lawsuit was filed in April by a Pennsylvania man who alleged that he was owed $20,000 for gathering signatures.
Despite these allegations, America PAC spokesperson Andrew Romeo has denied any misconduct, asserting that the PAC is committed to compensating for every legitimate petition signature.
Why It Matters: This lawsuit against Musk and America PAC could potentially tarnish their reputations and raise questions about their ethical practices. It also highlights the ongoing legal challenges faced by political action committees in their fundraising and campaign efforts. 
The outcome of this case could have significant implications for future PAC operations and campaign strategies.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/general/sports/25/05/45483236/shaq-rolls-up-in-a-cybertruck-elon-musk-has-this-one-word-response">Shaq Rolls Up In A Cybertruck — Elon Musk Has This One-Word Response</a>
Image: Shutterstock

TSLA

Elon Musk's PAC Promised $100 Per Signature—Now It's Facing a Lawsuit

In a recent conversation, Nvidia (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) CEO Jensen Huang expressed his belief in the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to bolster students&#8217; career prospects and job performance.
What Happened: Huang suggested that if he were a student today, he would utilize the capabilities of generative AI to enhance his career opportunities.
Huang stressed the significance of learning to engage with AI, likening it to the skill of posing insightful questions. He further underscored the necessity for proficiency in directing AI to provide effective assistance.
During the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ARBJQn6QkM">interview</a>, Huang said that AI can be perceived as an intelligent child that requires precise and succinct instructions to produce a beneficial response. He referred to Kelly Daniel, Lazarus AI prompt director, who recommended structuring instructions&nbsp;into a list or steps&nbsp;for improved comprehension.
"The first thing I would do is to learn AI. Learning how to interact with AI is not unlike being someone who's really good at asking questions. Prompting AI is very similar. You can't just randomly ask a bunch of questions. Asking AI to be an assistant to you requires some expertise and artistry of how to prompt it," he said. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/03/44450770/nvidia-ceo-jensen-huangs-joke-sparks-concerns-over-rapid-depreciation-of-ai-chips">Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang&#8217;s Joke Sparks Concerns Over Rapid Depreciation Of AI Chips</a>
Despite only 11% of young Americans regularly using AI, Huang is confident that AI proficiencies will continue to be pertinent in the future. 
"If I were a student today, irrespective of whether it's for math or science or chemistry or biology — doesn't matter what field of science I'm going into or what profession — I'm going to ask myself, ‘How can I use AI to do my job better?'" he added.
He urged students to investigate how AI can be leveraged to augment their job performance, irrespective of their academic discipline or career.
Why It Matters: Huang&#8217;s comments underscore the growing recognition of AI as a critical tool in the modern workplace. 
With AI technologies becoming increasingly integrated into various industries, the ability to effectively interact with and utilize AI could be a significant advantage for students entering the workforce. 
Furthermore, Huang&#8217;s analogy of AI as a &#8220;smart child&#8221; highlights the importance of clear communication in eliciting useful responses from AI systems. This insight could help shape educational strategies for teaching AI interaction skills.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock/jamesonwu1972

Success Stories

If I Were A Student Today, Here's How I'd Use AI To Do My Job Better, Says Nvidia CEO

Personal finance expert Dave Ramsey took a swing at the media in a recent segment of &#8220;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HYIv3ZMnMeI">The Dave Ramsey Show</a>,&#8221; claiming news outlets are more focused on pushing fear than accurately reporting economic recovery.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;All the Losses Have Been Completely Recovered&#8217;</h2>
Ramsey emphasized that the market had returned to its earlier levels. &#8220;We&#8217;re about even from the first of the year now,&#8221; he said, arguing that this key point is being overlooked by the media. &#8220;All the losses have been completely recovered from Jan. 1.&#8221;
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Ramsey pointed to the stock market's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/regulations/25/05/45355655/magnificent-seven-gain-700b-after-us-china-slash-tariffs-gold-crashes-whats-driving-markets-monday">rapid rebound</a> following news that the Trump administration had reached an agreement with China on tariffs. &#8220;As of this moment, the stock market is shooting through the roof,&#8221; Ramsey said. &#8220;Huge rebound in the last two days.&#8221;
Just weeks ago, he <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/personal-finance/25/05/45204651/dave-ramsey-explains-how-to-build-wealth-in-the-current-economy-this-is-not-the-first-time-the-stock-market-has-gone-down">reminded listeners</a>, media headlines warned that Trump&#8217;s tariff negotiations would ruin the economy. &#8220;Y&#8217;all remember that we were all going to die about a month ago? That the world was coming to an end?&#8221; he asked sarcastically.
&#8220;See if you find one positive news story about it going up,&#8221; Ramsey challenged. &#8220;You won&#8217;t find one.&#8221;
Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl-scaling-fast-from-spacex-orders-to-600-homes-built-this-60k-foldable-home-may-be-the-future-of-housing">this is your last chance to become an investor for $0.80 per share.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">&#8216;They Just Want You Addicted to Fear&#8217;</h2>
Ramsey accused the media of thriving on fear-based narratives. &#8220;They really don&#8217;t report the news. They&#8217;re just in the fear porn business,&#8221; he said. &#8220;If the tornado isn&#8217;t going to kill you, you&#8217;re going to lose all your retirement. Or there&#8217;s going to be a hurricane, or an earthquake, or all of the immigrants are going to kill you. Something&#8217;s going to kill you. That&#8217;s all they do over and over and over.&#8221;
He recalled how, after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the stock market dropped sharply but fully recovered in just 54 days—a milestone he says went unreported. &#8220;Not one news outlet reported that America&#8217;s economy is so vibrant, so strong,&#8221; Ramsey said.
See Also: Nancy Pelosi Invested $5 Million In An AI Company Last Year — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/elf-labs-ym?v=123">Here's How You Can Invest In Multiple Pre-IPO AI Startups With Just $1,000.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quit Freaking Out and Stay in Your Mutual Funds&#8217;</h2>
Ramsey advised investors to stop reacting emotionally to short-term market fluctuations. &#8220;Quit buying and selling your stock. Just get in your mutual funds and stay in and ride. This is how people build wealth,&#8221; he said.
He warned against the emotional pull of headlines and clickbait. &#8220;You&#8217;re not going to find a report. If you do, it&#8217;s one in a bazillion.&#8221;
Co-host Ken Coleman highlighted the difference between the economy and the stock market. &#8220;That&#8217;s a speculative game,&#8221; the guest said. &#8220;What we&#8217;re seeing on Wall Street is not the same as the health of the American economy.&#8221;
Ramsey wrapped up with a memorable analogy. &#8220;In a given week, it&#8217;s a four-year-old having a temper tantrum in the cereal aisle because the Froot Loops aren&#8217;t right there. In a given decade, the stock market&#8217;s a wise old woman.&#8221;
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'The Stock Market Is Shooting Through The Roof,' Says Dave Ramsey. But Claims The Media's Silent—'They Want You Addicted To Fear'

In a recent public statement, Grimes, a renowned Canadian musician and former partner of Elon Musk, has expressed skepticism about the ability of Meta Platforms Inc&#8217;s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, to effectively lead the metaverse.
What Happened: Grimes, whose legal name is Claire Boucher, took to X in 2022, to voice her doubts about Zuckerberg&#8217;s capability to manage the virtual world. She further mocked Zuckerberg&#8217;s metaverse avatar, referring to it as &#8220;bad art.&#8221;
Her remarks came in the wake of Zuckerberg&#8217;s conversation with Joe Rogan. Zuckerberg, a strong proponent of the metaverse, has characterized it as a &#8220;massive opportunity&#8221; with the potential to&nbsp;&#8220;unlock hundreds of billions of&nbsp;dollars.&#8221;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">If zuck "oversees the Metaverse" it is dead and people who care about art and culture are building something else. also this is bad art The quality of this image alone speaks to how wildly under qualified he is to build alternate reality, literally every indie game looks better <a href="https://t.co/n8Cuv4f0uJ">https://t.co/n8Cuv4f0uJ</a> <a href="https://t.co/0G46MlWIP2">pic.twitter.com/0G46MlWIP2</a>
&mdash; 
</blockquote></div></figure>

Elon Musk's Ex-Girlfriend Grimes Questions Mark Zuckerberg's Aptitude For Metaverse Leadership, Says Zuckerberg Is 'Wildly Under Qualified'

Robert Kiyosaki predicts a significant surge in Bitcoin&#8216;s (CRYPTO: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/btc/usd">BTC</a>) value, attributing it to a potential collapse <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/25/03/44550875/robert-kiyosaki-thinks-saving-in-cash-is-a-bad-idea-heres-why">of the central bank system</a>.
What Happened: In a post on X on Saturday, Kiyosaki, the author of the best-selling book &#8220;Rich Dad Poor Dad,&#8221; expressed his belief that gold, silver, and Bitcoin will continue to appreciate in value. 
He attributed this to what he describes as the impending crash of the &#8220;Marxist Central Bank system.&#8221; Kiyosaki further predicted that Bitcoin&#8217;s value would climb to $250,000 within the year, urging his followers to buy more and hold onto their existing assets.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Q: Why will gold, silver, and Bitcoin continue to grow in value? A: The Marxist Central Bank system is crashing…. Many going bankrupt. Keep HODLing. I am and buying more Bitcoin. I predict Bitcoin climbs to $250 k this year. Buy more. Do not sell.
&mdash; Robert Kiyosaki (@theRealKiyosaki) <a href="https://twitter.com/theRealKiyosaki/status/1923760378237841626?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2025</a></blockquote>
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While Kiyosaki&#8217;s views are not universally shared, they reflect a growing sentiment among some investors that traditional banking systems are becoming increasingly unstable. 
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/25/05/45186165/robert-kiyosakis-stern-warning-tariffs-wont-protect-you-tariffs-only-increase-inflation-as-jobs-are-lost-and-wages-come-down">Robert Kiyosaki&#8217;s Stern Warning: &#8216;Tariffs Won&#8217;t Protect You, Tariffs Only Increase Inflation As Jobs Are Lost And Wages Come Down&#8217;</a>
This belief has led to a surge in interest in alternative assets like cryptocurrencies, which are seen as a hedge against potential economic downturns.
Why It Matters: Kiyosaki&#8217;s prediction comes at a time when cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, are gaining mainstream acceptance as a legitimate asset class. His views underscore the increasing concern among investors about the stability of traditional banking systems, and the potential for alternative assets like Bitcoin to provide a hedge against economic uncertainty.
While Kiyosaki&#8217;s prediction of a $250,000 Bitcoin is certainly bold, it reflects a broader trend of increasing investor interest in cryptocurrencies. 
As traditional banking systems face growing scrutiny, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are likely to continue attracting attention as potential hedges against economic instability.
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Image: Shutterstock/creativeneko

Robert Kiyosaki Predicts Bitcoin To Reach $250,000: 'Buy More. Do Not Sell.'

Turns out, a lot of people feel anxious on Sundays. According to a 2023 <a href="https://www.ciphr.com/infographics/causes-of-stress-at-work-2023-survey-results">survey</a> by HR software provider Ciphr, nearly half of senior managers in the UK report experiencing the &#8216;Sunday scaries&#8217; multiple times a year.&nbsp;
On the other hand, HubSpot (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HUBS#NYSE">HUBS</a>) CEO Yamini Rangan says she doesn't get the Sunday scaries. In fact, she skips right over them by turning Sundays into a full workday.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A Different Kind of Sunday</h2>
"I'm not scared of Sundays,&#8221; Rangan said on the recent episode of the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5IvTK4syq-4">&#8220;Grit&#8221; podcast</a>. &#8220;I enjoy it because it's my time. I get to decide what I'm learning, what I'm doing, what I'm thinking, what I'm writing. It is completely my schedule.&#8221;
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Her version of a day off? Saturday. She completely disconnects from work after Friday night and doesn't pick it back up until Sunday morning. No emails, no messages, not even from the board. That one-day break is non-negotiable.
Then comes Sunday, which for her is anything but restful. She turns it into a dedicated workday: reading, thinking, planning, and writing. It&#8217;s her time to prepare for the week ahead with focus and intention, without interruptions. "It is completely my schedule," she said. By the time most people are still winding down their weekend, she's already scheduled a full set of Monday morning emails, often timed to hit inboxes at 5 a.m.
This rhythm, she says, keeps her balanced. It&#8217;s her way of eliminating the dread many feel about Mondays—by turning Sunday into a day of action instead of anxiety.
Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl-scaling-fast-from-spacex-orders-to-600-homes-built-this-60k-foldable-home-may-be-the-future-of-housing">this is your last chance to become an investor for $0.80 per share.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Work Stress Isn't Rare, But Her Solution Is</h2>
Rangan's approach may sound intense, but she's not alone in working this way. A recent survey by HR software firm Ciphr shows that stress and anxiety about the workweek are widespread among senior managers. Nearly half – 47% – of the 265 UK senior managers polled said they felt the Sunday scaries multiple times over the past year. About 13% felt them multiple times a month, and 5% said they felt them every week.
Only 8% of respondents said they had never experienced the Sunday scaries.
The top three causes of stress among senior leaders were high inflation and rising prices (34%), the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45384608/u-s-households-now-need-70-more-income-to-buy-a-home-double-whammy-of-skyrocketing-prices-and-rates">cost-of-living crisis</a> (33%) and <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/04/38397890/how-i-escaped-the-corporate-rat-race-and-saved-myself-from-burnout-using-these-10-easy-stress-buster">burnout</a> (27%).
Workload and to-do lists (24%), economic downturn (23%) and unfinished work tasks (21%) are also some of the reasons.&nbsp;
Rangan, who leads a company with more than 9,000 employees and billions in revenue, says the key to avoiding burnout is to find a rhythm that works and stick to it.
&#8220;Peak performance requires peak rest,&#8221; she said. So she made a rule: &#8220;I&#8217;ve said to people that I will not respond on Saturday.&#8221; Even when board members send emails, Rangan says she holds firm to her Saturday boundary and doesn't reply.&nbsp;
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When Rangan took over as CEO in 2021, it wasn't under normal circumstances. HubSpot co-founder and then-CEO Brian Halligan was injured in a snowmobile accident and suddenly out of commission. Rangan, who joined as chief customer officer in 2020, stepped in.
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">HubSpot CEO Brian Halligan Injured In Snowmobile Accident <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24HUBS&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$HUBS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%24TWTR&amp;src=ctag&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">$TWTR</a> <a href="https://t.co/mWOM87yno2">https://t.co/mWOM87yno2</a>
&mdash; JasonRaznick (@JasonRaznick) <a href="https://twitter.com/JasonRaznick/status/1366492771062808593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&#8220;He said, &#8216;Remember I told you if I ever got hit by a bus, you&#8217;d have to run it? I need you to run it.'&#8221;
Rangan accepted the interim CEO role, thinking Halligan would eventually return. He didn't. Six months later, the board made her appointment permanent.
Since then, she's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/earnings/25/05/45304277/hubspot-beats-estimates-raises-guidance-shares-sink-the-details">guided</a> the customer relationship management and marketing automation platform through pandemic growth, a sudden market slowdown, and the rise of AI. Each year, she says, requires reinvention.
"Every year I&#8217;ve been CEO, I&#8217;ve had to reinvent what I&#8217;m doing and my mental constructs," she said. &#8220;Every year, there&#8217;s something completely different we&#8217;re trying to drive.&#8221;
Rangan's no stranger to pressure. She grew up in a 350-square-foot home in a small Indian town. She came to the U.S. with $300 and worked her way up through engineering and sales. Even now, she says, she often feels &#8220;behind.&#8221;
&#8220;I&#8217;ve embraced that discomfort," she said. "If I&#8217;m not learning, I&#8217;m behind.&#8221;
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HUBS

'I'm Not Scared Of Sundays,' Says HubSpot CEO, Who Beats The Sunday Scaries By Simply Working Through The Weekend

Voice of America, the U.S.-funded international news broadcaster, is facing a wave of terminations as nearly 600 employees <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/04/44881570/trump-administration-to-lay-off-nearly-90-of-cfpb-employees-in-major-downsizing-report" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">have been let go by its parent agency</a>.
The U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM) issued notices Thursday to hundreds of contractors, citing termination &#8220;for convenience,&#8221; effective May 30, <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2025/05/16/voa-layoffs-trump-administration-00353694" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">reports</a> Politico.
The move affects a broad range of non-permanent personnel, including editors, journalists, and visual designers — with over 50 of them holding J-1 visas that now place them at risk of deportation, the report adds.
Also Read: <a target="_blank" href="https://benzinga.com/news/25/05/45457691/its-incredible-the-trump-administration-is-acting-like-this-isnt-a-big-deal-says-fox-host-as-la-port-volume-drops-35-and-layoffs-loom" rel="noreferrer noopener">&#8216;It&#8217;s Incredible The Trump Administration Is Acting Like This Isn&#8217;t A Big Deal,&#8217; Says Fox Host As LA Port Volume Drops 35% And Layoffs Loom</a>
According to internal communications, affected international staff may be forced to leave the country within 30 days, many fearing persecution if returned home.
The terminations follow a directive from USAGM under the leadership of Kari Lake, who was appointed by President Donald Trump and has since clashed with VOA staff over editorial direction and independence, POLITICO adds.
Michael Abramowitz, VOA&#8217;s Director, expressed deep concern in a note to employees, stating that no clear explanation had been given for the dismissals.
He emphasized VOA&#8217;s commitment to supporting affected staff, particularly those from hostile regimes.
The terminations come on the heels of a federal court decision reversing protections that had temporarily blocked the administration&#8217;s broader efforts to overhaul USAGM.
The Trump administration&#8217;s stance is that VOA exhibits anti-Trump bias — a sentiment echoed in recent statements and an executive order that fast-tracked restructuring efforts across several agencies.
Roughly two dozen senior-level employees from VOA&#8217;s English-language and select foreign-language departments have resumed in-person duties. Critics see this as a strategy to maintain minimum statutory presence as legal battles unfold. Plaintiffs in an ongoing lawsuit — including White House bureau chief Patsy Widakuswara — vow to continue fighting what they describe as political interference in independent journalism.
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Voice of America Purge? Trump-Appointed Chief Fires 600; Reporters With J-1 Visa Face Deportation

In a Reddit <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/NoStupidQuestions/comments/1kkdto1/why_in_2025_does_banking_basically_cease_over_the/">post</a> that quickly gained thousands of upvotes, one user asked a question many Americans have probably wondered but never voiced: &#8220;Why, in 2025, does banking basically cease over the weekend?&#8221;
&#8220;As the title suggests, it feels like in this day and age weekends should have no bearing on fluid movement of funds,&#8221; wrote the original poster.&nbsp;
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">U.S. Transfers Still Stall Over the Weekend</h2>
Despite advances in technology, the U.S. banking system still relies heavily on the Automated Clearing House network, better known as ACH, a system developed in the 1970s that processes payments in batches. ACH doesn&#8217;t operate on weekends or federal holidays.
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&#8220;The real reason your bank isn't open is because no banks are open,&#8221; wrote one Redditor. &#8220;And the reason no banks are open is because the Federal Reserve&#8230; is closed on weekends.&#8221;
This pause has ripple effects. Even when you initiate a transfer on a Saturday, it often stays in &#8220;pending&#8221; status until Monday. That frustrates users like the original poster who shared: &#8220;I&#8217;ll pay my credit card electronically on Saturday and it pends the entire weekend until Monday when it &#8216;posts&#8217; and then the money doesn&#8217;t actually disappear from my bank account until TUESDAY.&#8221;
Meanwhile, people outside the U.S. are shocked this is even a problem.
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Other Countries Have Moved On</h2>
&#8220;In the Netherlands all <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/fintech/24/07/39933195/cash-in-a-flash-10-fintech-companies-dominating-real-time-payments">transactions are processed 24/7</a>, also between banks,&#8221; one commenter noted. Others chimed in from Australia, the U.K., Brazil, Mexico and New Zealand, all describing systems where bank transfers are instant and available every day of the week.
One Australian added, &#8220;Most <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/24/12/42653538/real-time-payments-and-embedded-finance-bridging-gaps-in-modern-banking">transfers are now instant</a>, literally take seconds, 24/7.&#8221;
A few U.S.-based commenters mentioned FedNow, a new payment service launched by the Federal Reserve in 2023 that allows real-time payments. However, its adoption has been slow. &#8220;FedNow is a new system that is 24/7/365, but many banks just aren&#8217;t using it yet,&#8221; said one person.
Some insiders say delays aren&#8217;t about tech limitations but business interests. &#8220;The bank holds the money for a few days, earning interest doing bank stuff, and then gives my landlord $3,000 on Tuesday,&#8221; one person wrote. &#8220;Multiply that by trillions of transactions and it's worth the banks lobbying to keep the Fed shut at the weekends.&#8221;
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Others pointed out that fraud prevention is often used as justification for these delays. But not everyone buys that argument. &#8220;You don't need human review of the vast majority of transactions and there's no need to hold up all transactions for the tiny fraction that do,&#8221; one user argued.
From a global perspective, the U.S. banking system comes off as outdated. &#8220;Cheques don&#8217;t really exist in the U.K. or Europe anymore,&#8221; said one Redditor. &#8220;The U.S. is a dinosaur in this area.&#8221;
Whether due to inertia, lobbying, or outdated infrastructure, U.S. banks remain behind many of their global peers when it comes to the basic movement of money.
As one Redditor put it: &#8220;So basically, we're closed on Saturday because that guy is closed on Saturday and he is closed on Saturday because that other guy is closed on Saturday and that other guy is closed on Saturday because it is Saturday.&#8221;
Read Next:
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a></li>
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</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

'It Feels Backward'—Someone Asked What Many Are Thinking: 'Why Does Banking Basically Cease Over The Weekend' In 2025?

Scott Bessent, the U.S. Treasury Secretary, dismissed concerns over the U.S.&nbsp;government debt and the inflationary&nbsp;impact of tariffs on companies&nbsp;such as&nbsp;Walmart Inc.&nbsp;(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WMT#NYSE">WMT</a>). 
What Happened: Following Moody&#8217;s Ratings downgrade of the U.S. credit rating on Friday, Bessent referred to Moody&#8217;s as a &#8220;lagging indicator.&#8221; He attributed the current fiscal state to the Biden administration&#8217;s spending&nbsp;over the past four years, which the Trump administration inherited.
Regarding the potential price increase by Walmart due to higher import taxes, Bessent disclosed a conversation with Walmart CEO&nbsp;Doug McMillon. The retailer plans to absorb some of the tariffs, as it has done in previous years. Bessent emphasized that he did not exert any pressure on Walmart, <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-05-18/bessent-calls-moody-s-lagging-indicator-of-us-fiscal-health?srnd=homepage-americas&amp;sref=TBDibEcD">reports </a>Bloomberg. 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://benzinga.com/markets/25/05/45483312/peter-lynchs-market-advice-you-dont-need-a-lot-in-your-lifetime-you-only-need-a-few-good-socks-in-your-li" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Peter Lynch&#8217;s Market Advice: &#8216;You Don&#8217;t Need A Lot In Your Lifetime, You Only Need A Few Good Stocks In Your Lifetime&#8217; (CORRECTED)</a>
Bessent also discussed the Federal Reserve&#8217;s &#8220;wait-and-see mode&#8221; concerning the potential inflationary effect of tariffs. He mentioned a mechanism for continuing talks with China following a recent tariff truce. However, he warned that other countries might face unilateral tariff rates if they fail to negotiate in good faith.
On the topic of Russia sanctions, Bessent refrained from making predictions but reiterated President Trump&#8217;s readiness to increase sanctions if Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin does not negotiate in&nbsp;good faith.
Addressing criticism over a potential&nbsp;acceptance of a 747 jet&nbsp;from Qatar, Bessent called it a distraction from a successful Mideast trip. He concluded by downplaying the significance of Moody&#8217;s downgrade, stating that Middle Eastern countries investing in the U.S. are not concerned about it.
Why It Matters: The U.S. Treasury Secretary&#8217;s dismissal of Moody&#8217;s downgrade and his comments on tariffs&#8217; impact on companies like Walmart are significant. 
They reflect the government&#8217;s stance on fiscal health and international trade negotiations. Bessent&#8217;s comments also shed light on the administration&#8217;s approach to managing potential inflationary effects of tariffs and its readiness to increase sanctions if necessary. 
His remarks on the Moody&#8217;s downgrade indicate a confidence in the U.S. economy that may influence investor sentiment.
Read Next
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Image: Shutterstock/Maxim Elramsisy

Treasury Secretary Bessent Addresses Moody's Downgrade and Tariff Impact n Walmart

In the rapidly evolving world of digital currencies and blockchain innovation, few projects have managed to bridge mass appeal and Web3 utility quite like Notcoin. Launched as a simple Telegram-based clicker game, Notcoin quickly exploded into a viral movement, attracting more than 35 million users and turning casual players into blockchain participants — all with a tap.
At the heart of this phenomenon is Sergey, CTO and co-founder of Notcoin. With more than 15 years of experience in tech, Sergey plays a pivotal role in driving the platform's technical vision and strategic growth. From refining staking mechanics to crafting meaningful user journeys, he's focused on turning short-term hype into lasting adoption.
Benzinga's Bibhu Pattnaik sat down with Sergey to learn more about the mechanics behind Notcoin's success, its community-first approach, and what's next for the viral Web3 experiment.
As the co-founder of Notcoin, how did your 15 years in tech shape your approach to building Notcoin's infrastructure and user experience?
Over 15 years of building tech solutions, I've developed a broad skill set, and have learned how to swiftly navigate user interfaces, infrastructure, and business challenges. Our founding team at Open Builders, the team behind Notcoin, thrived on launching new projects rapidly, often in a hackathon-style sprint. This agility was key to surviving the demands caused by Notcoin's explosive growth, which saw us achieve 4M users in one week.
We have a very specific product design philosophy, which we hold very fast to when thinking about the form our projects take. We were tired of rigid enterprise solutions and wanted to create something simple yet meaningful, while keeping it fun.
Finally, even 15 years of experience across startups and enterprise companies can't prepare you for everything—especially a viral phenomenon like Notcoin. You have to learn quickly on the job and iterate new ideas rapidly. My experience gave me a strong foundation from which to grow, but I'm still learning more every day – it's the best part of working in crypto!
What inspired the creation of Notcoin, and how did you define its strategic vision from the outset?
We wanted to introduce people to web3 in a gentle, non-pushy way. A clicker game seemed perfect—fun, straightforward, and instantly rewarding. But we didn't stop there. We added onboarding tasks, friend systems to drive engagement, addictive game mechanics, and skins to personalize the experience. Above all, we infused it with the philosophy that underpins all Open Builders projects. The "Probably Nothing" concept was designed to defy the overwhelming expectations that often deter people from exploring crypto. We declared it "Nothing"—our white paper is blank, encouraging users to have fun with the clicker and the concept, free from pressure or speculation.
Since Notcoin launched a year and a half ago, this idea has evolved into something bigger. It continues to take inspiration with Buddhist principles and authentic crypto values, but we've grown it through new gigs, clothing, collaborations, and apps. We weave our core ideas into everything we create at Open Builders. The Notcoin project's clear expression of our values resonated more and more strongly with our community as it grew, and this resonance vindicated our philosophy, and demonstrated just how important it is to speak authentically to your core users.&nbsp;
You emphasize fun in product development — how do you balance that with deep technical challenges?
Fun is just the tip of the iceberg – beneath the surface, there is a serious tech machine. When we started, we thought our systems were solid, but they ultimately weren't enough to cater to the demand for Notcoin. Ever since, we've been continuously refining our codebase and infrastructure. Comparing our technical expertise now to a year ago, the difference is striking—more sophisticated technology, a larger engineering team, and a transformed tech stack.
While user enjoyment is our core mission, we never compromise when it comes to protecting their assets and building resilient systems.
Can you walk us through some of the core event mechanics or staking designs you&#8217;re experimenting with to encourage real adoption?
We're currently designing our staking model and want to ensure the highest APR for our most dedicated holders. But that's not the main focus. We also plan to add real-world utility for those who lock up their Notcoin long-term. Imagine freezing your $NOT for a year and unlocking real-world perks: regular BTC rewards, discounted flights, a free coffee, or even surprise gifts like Amazon gift cards. We're still exploring ideas, but we want to reward long-term belief in ways that blend crypto and everyday life.
How are you leveraging data to differentiate between short-term traders and long-term holders in Notcoin's user base?
We track on-chain behavior and segment users into three groups. Holders are users who hold 80% of their portfolio for 12 months or more, cruisers are users who hold $NOT between one and 11 months, and traders are those who hold for under a month.
We're currently designing a dedicated dashboard where loyal holders can earn benefits across the Notcoin ecosystem. These include invites to our gigs (like the exclusive Not rave that we held during TOKEN2049 in Dubai), merch, higher APR for staking, and access to close groups.
What role does community-driven growth play in your roadmap, and how do you integrate community feedback into technical decisions?
Community is everything to us. While it might not always be visible, we're constantly listening, whether it's via our feedback hub (@not_support_chat) or through contributors gathering insights from alpha groups, Telegram channels, and various Twitter threads.
While our decisions align with our broader strategic vision, the community's voice is a key driver. To give you an idea, at least a third of our core team consists of community members who were so skilled and active that we had to bring them on board.
How do you define success for Notcoin beyond the hype of exchange listings and short-term trading?
I don't think I'm the right person to judge the success of what we build – it's up to our community to define what success for Notcoin would be. Having said that, I'm thrilled to see how much people love it and the dedicated community of millions that we've managed to grow.
What have been the most surprising insights you&#8217;ve uncovered about user behavior while scaling Notcoin? What surprised me most is how users have embraced the idea and philosophy of Notcoin—just check out this website from the recent research contest:<a href="https://notcoin.my/"> </a>https://notcoin.my/. How cool is that? Here you can find more highlights from community contests, where our users' creativity is on full display.

Interview

At Notcoin We Want To Reward Long-Term Belief In Ways That Blend Crypto And Everyday Life, Says Sergey

Bill Gates and Elon Musk, two of the world&#8217;s richest individuals, have publicly disagreed over their differing views on philanthropy and efficiency.
What Happened: Gates intends to boost his foundation&#8217;s charitable contributions&nbsp;to public health and education&nbsp;in the coming two decades. Conversely, Musk has leveraged&nbsp;the White House DOGE office&nbsp;to drastically curtail US foreign aid expenditure and disband&nbsp;the US Agency for International&nbsp;Development, which he has termed a &#8220;criminal organization.&#8221;
Gates&#8217; strategy entails a long-term plan, whereas Musk&#8217;s method aligns with the tech industry&#8217;s fast-paced, disruptive ethos. Gates recently revealed plans to dissolve the Gates Foundation within the next 20 years,&nbsp;but contrary to reducing expenditure, he plans to augment it. 
As per the report <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/elon-musk-bill-gates-leadership-lesson-international-aid-doge-2025-5">by </a>Insider, the foundation is set&nbsp;to distribute $9 billion in&nbsp;2026 and aims to&nbsp;double the $100 billion it&nbsp;has donated since its inception in 2000, with a target of donating an additional&nbsp;$200 billion to public health&nbsp;and education causes by December&nbsp;31, 2045.
In contrast, DOGE, under Musk&#8217;s stewardship, has drastically reduced funding to USAID, leading to significant disruptions and a reduction of&nbsp;more than 80% of USAID&#8217;s&nbsp;contractual commitments. This has left organizations globally that depended on US funding scrambling to fulfill their missions.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43581817/bill-gates-says-this-simple-trait-is-the-secret-to-his-success">Bill Gates Says This Simple Trait Is the Secret to His Success</a>
The divergent approaches of Gates and Musk to &#8220;efficiency&#8221; are clear. Musk&#8217;s strategy with DOGE embodies the lean, do-more-with-less ethos of tech startups, while the Gates Foundation aims to deliver humanitarian aid using a data-driven approach and expertise from organizations working directly with those in need.
The disagreement between the two billionaires extends to their views on philanthropy. Gates has criticized Musk for his role in slashing the USAID budget, while Musk has previously dismissed most philanthropy as &#8220;bullshit.&#8221;
Why It Matters: This public disagreement between two influential figures highlights the ongoing debate about the role of philanthropy and efficiency in addressing global challenges. 
Their contrasting approaches reflect broader discussions within the tech industry and philanthropic sector about the best ways to allocate resources and achieve impact. 
This debate will likely continue to shape the future of philanthropy and international aid.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/tech/25/02/43423004/bill-gates-early-departure-from-harvard-not-surprising-says-former-professor-i-just-wish-id-invested-in-him" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bill Gates' Early Departure From Harvard: Not Surprising, Says Former Professor: ‘I Just Wish I'd Invested In Him'</a>
Image: Shutterstock/Alexandros Michailidis

More Than a Feud: Elon Musk-Bill Gates Spat Sheds Light on Competing Views of Efficiency

Last week, gold and silver prices dropped after the U.S. and China agreed to temporarily reduce most tariffs on each other&#8217;s goods. This could be driving a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45429569" rel="noreferrer noopener">rotation out of safe-haven assets</a>.
Most gold mining stocks were among the top ten large-cap worst performers in the last week. Are they in your portfolio?
<ol class="wp-block-list">
<li>UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UNH#NYSE">UNH</a>) shares dipped 23.31%  in reaction to a media report on a possible investigation <a href="https://www.benzinga.com//node/45443695" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">for criminal Medicare fraud</a>.</li>
<li>Fiserv, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FI#NYSE">FI</a>) shares were down 9.46%.</li>
<li>Alamos Gold Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AGI#NYSE">AGI</a>) shares declined 9.43%.</li>
<li>Agnico Eagle Mines (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AEM#NYSE">AEM</a>) stock fell 9.27%.</li>
<li>AngloGold Ashanti PLC (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AU#NYSE">AU</a>) stock dived 9.06%.</li>
<li>Kinross Gold Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/KGC#NYSE">KGC</a>) stock fell 8.96%.</li>
<li>Wheaton Precious Metals Corp (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/WPM#NYSE">WPM</a>) shares decreased 8.48%</li>
<li>Gold Fields Limited (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GFI#NYSE">GFI</a>) shares were down 8.47%.</li>
<li>Barrick Mining Corporation (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/B#NYSE">B</a>) stock decreased 8.38%.</li>
<li>Royal Gold, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RGLD#NASDAQ">RGLD</a>) stock dived 7.20%.</li>
</ol>
Image Via Shutterstock

Commodities

RGLD

Gold Mining Stocks Were Among Top 10 Large-Cap Losers Last Week (May 12-May 16): Are These In Your Portfolio?

<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/25/05/45184119/google-microsoft-meta-and-mclaren-back-mombaks-30m-amazon-reforestation-push-targeting-600m-in-carbon-credit-deals-by-2025">Google</a> is launching a major AI initiative that could shape the next generation of artificial intelligence startups. The AI Futures Fund promises direct investment, access to Google's <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/25/05/45314987/google-deploys-on-device-gemini-ai-to-fight-online-scams-blocks-millions-of-fraud-pages-in-real-time">Gemini</a> AI models, and deep technical mentorship for founders pushing the edge of innovation.
In a<a href="https://blog.google/technology/google-labs/ai-futures-fund/"> blog post</a> published Monday, Google outlined its intent to work closely with ambitious early-stage companies. The fund will offer hands-on support from Google's research and engineering teams, alongside go-to-market specialists and cloud credits to scale AI development.
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</ul>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Gemini-Powered Startups Get The Google Advantage</h2>
The AI Futures Fund will focus on helping founders build transformative products powered by Gemini, Google&#8217;s flagship AI model suite. According to AI Futures Fund&#8217;s<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfmv3YKZtCr_HyQdtMWfUCjUUmxPuPTL9lV29Gs4k8d3P1iwg/viewform"> application page</a>, startups will be granted early access to the models and receive technical guidance directly from Google's in-house experts.
In addition to access and expertise, Google is sweetening the deal with cloud credits. These can be used to build, deploy, and scale high-performance AI systems on Google Cloud, according to the startup&#8217;s<a href="https://labs.google/aifuturesfund"> website</a>. With many generative AI models requiring expensive infrastructure to train and operate, these credits give early-stage companies a head start.
According to<a href="https://siliconangle.com/2025/05/12/googles-new-ai-futures-fund-turns-tap-startup-founders/"> SiliconANGLE</a>, Google aims to deepen its exposure to emerging AI startups and technologies through the AI Futures Fund, giving the company early insight into innovation while strengthening its position in a competitive field already shaped by rivals like Microsoft (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/MSFT#NASDAQ">MSFT</a>), Amazon (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AMZN#NASDAQ">AMZN</a>), and OpenAI.
The fund will complement Google's previous $3 billion in combined investments in generative AI company Anthropic, where it holds a significant ownership stake and cloud partnership, <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/12/google-launches-ai-startup-fund-offering-access-to-new-models.html">CNBC</a> reports. This tie-in positions Google to shape the trajectory of multiple leading-edge players simultaneously.
Trending: Maker of the $60,000 foldable home has 3 factory buildings, 600+ houses built, and big plans to solve housing — <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/boxabl-scaling-fast-from-spacex-orders-to-600-homes-built-this-60k-foldable-home-may-be-the-future-of-housing">this is your last chance to become an investor for $0.80 per share.</a>
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Google Doubles Down On Global AI Ecosystem Building</h2>
The AI Futures Fund is only the latest in a series of moves by Google to position itself as a key player in AI ecosystem growth. The company<a href="https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/google-org/google-generative-ai-accelerator-nonprofits/"> announced</a> in March 2024 a $20 million nonprofit accelerator through Google.org focused on generative AI, followed by an<a href="https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/public-policy/google-united-nations-general-assembly-2024/"> introduction</a> in September of a $120 million Global AI Opportunity fund.
The giant also <a href="https://startup.google.com/programs/founders-funds/">launched</a> the Google for Startups Founders Funds in 2020. According to the company's website, the program has provided over $58 million in equity-free cash awards and support to more than 600 founders from diverse backgrounds since its inception.
The program expanded its focus to include AI startups in the U.S., with plans to extend support to international founders shortly, according to a<a href="https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/entrepreneurs/2024-google-for-startups-founders-funds/"> blog post</a>. This expansion aims to empower diverse entrepreneurs leveraging AI technology to solve real-world problems and drive innovation.
This broader commitment to inclusion in AI development has been echoed at the highest levels of the company. During his keynote at the United Nations' Summit of the Future in September, Google CEO Sundar Pichai emphasized Google's mission to ensure broad, equitable access to AI. "Just as the internet and mobile devices expanded opportunities for people around the world, now AI is poised to accelerate progress at unprecedented scale," Pichai said, according to a blog post from Google.&nbsp;
See Also: Invest where it hurts — and help millions heal:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/a-cure-for-osteoarthritis-powered-by-everyday-investors-cytonics-is-looking-to-beat-big-pharma-and-disrupt-a-390-billion-market"> Invest in Cytonics and help disrupt a $390B Big Pharma stronghold</a>.
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Building The Next Generation Of AI Giants</h2>
At its core, the AI Futures Fund aims to surface the most daring AI ideas and accelerate their journey from concept to product. According to the application page, Google wants to "enable groundbreaking 0-to-1 products and features" by working closely with founders across all stages of growth.
Applications for the fund are now open, and the founders selected will enter Google's ecosystem with a toolkit that includes capital, exclusive model access, technical guidance, and go-to-market alignment, as detailed on the company&#8217;s website.
As investors search for the next wave of AI breakthroughs, and startups look for the resources to stay ahead, the AI Futures Fund could prove to be one of the most strategically important moves in Google's recent history.
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<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/this-ai-imaging-technology-has-been-used-in-more-than-500-surgeries-now-you-can-be-part-of-the-ai-imaging-revolution">Be part of the next med-tech breakthrough for only $350 — 500+ surgeries already done with nView's AI system.</a></li>
<li>Inspired by Uber and Airbnb &#8211; Deloitte's fastest-growing software company is transforming 7 billion smartphones into income-generating assets &#8211; <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/money/mode-mobile-2">with $1,000 you can invest at just $0.30/share!</a></li>
</ul>
Image: Shutterstock

AMZN

MSFT

Google's AI Futures Fund Gives Startups VIP Access To DeepMind Models, Backing From Sundar Pichai, And Cloud Credits Worth Millions

Ivanka Trump made an unexpected visit to the Philadelphia Eagles locker room on Friday. The visit seemed to be aimed at meeting cornerback Eli Ricks, who had previously complimented her.
What Happened: Ivanka Trump was seen in&nbsp;the Philadelphia Eagles&#8217; locker room, apparently in search of&nbsp;Eli Ricks, the player who&nbsp;had referred to her as&nbsp;&#8220;beautiful&#8221; during the team&#8217;s White&nbsp;House visit in April.
Ricks had initially posted on X,&nbsp;&#8220;Donald trump daughter is beautiful,&#8221;&nbsp;on April 29, to which Ivanka responded with a post stating, &#8220;Missed you today,&#8221; along with&nbsp;a photo of a note&nbsp;to Ricks that read,&nbsp;&#8220;stopped by to say hi!&nbsp;Sorry to miss you! Go&nbsp;Birds!&#8221;
<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">Missed you today <a href="https://twitter.com/eliasricks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eliasricks</a> ! &#x1f609;&#x1f602; <a href="https://t.co/FCwieXiP8k">https://t.co/FCwieXiP8k</a> <a href="https://t.co/4fTVEbm6NC">pic.twitter.com/4fTVEbm6NC</a>
&mdash; Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/IvankaTrump/status/1923484687944569138?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
</figure>
During her visit, Ivanka also posted videos and photos of her son Theo playing catch on the Eagles&#8217; practice field. Ricks, who&nbsp;joined the Eagles in 2023&nbsp;as an undrafted free agent, has participated in 23 games for the team since his joining.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/37193915/judge-calls-out-ivanka-trump-in-new-york-civil-fraud-case-says-her-memory-recall-was-suspect" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Judge Calls Out Ivanka Trump In New York Civil Fraud Case, Says Her Memory Recall Was &#8216;Suspect&#8217;</a>
This visit by Ivanka Trump to the Eagles&#8217; locker room is a unique event, as it is not common for high-profile figures to make such personal visits to sports teams. The interaction between Ivanka and Ricks has been a topic of interest since their exchange on social media. 
The visit also highlights the personal interest of Ivanka in the team, as evidenced by her son&#8217;s participation in a catch game on the practice field. 
This event could potentially influence the public perception of the Eagles and their players, and it will be interesting to see if there are any further developments in this story.
Read Next
<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/02/37301314/ivanka-trump-is-now-on-tiktok-even-though-her-father-tried-to-ban-it-in-the-us">Ivanka Trump Is Now On TikTok — Even Though Her Father Tried To Ban It In The US</a>

Entertainment

Sports

Ivanka Trump Drops by Eagles Locker Room, Responds to Player Who Called Her 'Beautiful': 'Stopped By To Say Hi! Sorry To Miss You! Go Birds!'

Press Releases

Verano to Report Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results on February 27, 2025

Verano Strengthens South Florida Retail Footprint with Opening of MÜV North Miami Beach, the Company's 80th Dispensary in the Sunshine State

Verano Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2024 Financial Results

Verano Targets Industry's Fastest-Growing Categories with Expansion of Savvy™ and (the) Essence™ Product Portfolios in Leading Cannabis Markets

Financing

Rainbow Realty Group Completes $12 Million Senior Real Estate Mortgage Loan to Verano Holdings Corp

Verano Expands Connecticut Footprint with Opening of Zen Leaf Ashford, Company's Sixth Retail Location and Closest Cannabis Dispensary1 to University of Connecticut

Verano to Report First Quarter 2025 Financial Results on May 8, 2025

Verano Announces Promotion and Appointment of Richard Tarapchak as Chief Financial Officer

Verano Elevates Florida Retail Footprint to 81 Dispensaries with the Opening of MÜV New Smyrna Beach

Verano Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Needham

Cantor Fitzgerald

Seaport Global

2024年第2四半期の大部分の大麻企業の財務業績が出揃い、その結果から興味深いトレンドが浮かび上がってきた。その1つが、米国のマルチステート・オペレーター（MSO）が供給チェーンにおけるコストと効率を改善しているという点だ。
MSOが風雲急を告げてきたことは驚くべきことではなく、かつその回復力が示されてきたのも理解できる。これまで低い卸売価格という圧力に直面し、小売業界での競争の激化と追加の課税に面してきたが、これらの大半の企業は、そのコスト業績を維持し、あるいはいくつかのケースでは改善することに成功してきたのだから。
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">財務詳細</h3>
バリディアン（Viridian）の<a href="https://dealtracker.viridianca.com/chart-of-the-week/">データ分析</a>によると、トップ8のMSOのうち6社の売上高に対する売上原価（COGS）の割合が昨年と比較して減少した。この削減は、これらの企業が課題に直面しながらも生産コストをより効率的に管理していることを示している。比較の対象には、Green Thumb Industries（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTBIF#OTC">GTBIF</a>）、Curaleaf（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTC">CURLF</a>）、Trulieve（CSE：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TRUL#CSE">TRUL</a>）（OTCQX：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTCQX">TCNNF</a>）、Verano（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNOF#OTC">VRNOF</a>）、Cresco Labs（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRLBF#OTC">CRLBF</a>）、Terrascend（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TRSSF#OTC">TRSSF</a>）、AYR（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AYRWF#OTC">AYRWF</a>）およびAscend Wellness（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAWH#OTC">AAWH</a>） が含まれる。ただし、AYRとTerrAscendはCOGSが増加した。これは、彼らが他の企業よりもより大きな運用上の課題に直面していることを示している。
さらに、このうちの6社は、2024年第2四半期における2023年第2四半期との比較で、売上高に対する売上、一般および管理（SG&amp;A）費用が低下した。この傾向は、これらの企業が自分たちのベルトを締め直し、支出についてより規律あるものになり、供給チェーンにおいて効率的に動くことを反映している。売上費用の削減は市場状況を反映したものとみられる。オハイオ州とニューヨーク州に新しいマーケットが拡大するにつれて、これらの企業は売上の増加を期待しており、それによって年の後半にはさらに財務業績が向上するはずだ。
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-490763" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12160625/unnamed-2.png" sizes="(max-width: 630px) 100vw, 630px" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12160625/unnamed-2.png 630w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12160625/unnamed-2-300x194.png 300w" alt="" width="630" height="407" /></figure>
関連記事: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/07/39806043/cannabis-stocks-canadian-companies-outperformed-american-counterparts-last-week">大麻株：先週、カナダ企業の方が米国企業をアウトパフォーム</a>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">MSOと大麻業界における役割の理解</h3>
MSOは複数の州にわたる栽培、加工、小売施設を管理する会社であり、米国の独自の法的枠組みのために同国の大麻市場においてさらに重要なプレーヤーになっている。
大麻が連邦レベルで未だに違法とされているため、ビジネスは州ごとの規制、法則および<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40176980/state-by-state-price-of-weed-across-the-u-s-in-august-2024">価格</a>といった複雑な規制網を航行せねばならない。MSOはこのような課題を処理するために設計されており、それによって彼らは異なる法律を守りながら、州をまたいでの業務展開を可能にしているのだ。この戦略により、MSOは市場拡大に伴う経済規模の利点を活かし、コストを引き下げ、効率を向上させることができる。ただし、州ごとの規制を遵守することが重要であるため、それによって大きなコストが生じてしまう。
最新のQ2の報告書は、大半のMSOがコスト削減に焦点を当てていることを示唆している。大麻の<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/07/39892433/dea-rescheduling-of-cannabis-could-create-over-50-000-jobs-industry-group-notes-in-public-commen">スケジューリングの可能性</a>があれば、これは全体の<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/05/38885460/finally-tax-refunds-these-cannabis-companies-will-get-the-most-money-back-if-rescheduling-happen">税制負担を削減する</a>ことによって、それによってそれらの財務業績を大幅に向上させる可能性がある。
<ul>
<li>次を読む: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39514459/u-s-dollar-soars-how-does-this-threaten-your-cannabis-investments-confidential-insi">米ドルが急騰：これがあなたの大麻投資に脅威を与える理由、機密情報の洞察</a></li>
</ul>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-490829" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/12164248/CCC-Oct-24-Banner-1-37.gif" alt="" width="970" height="250" /></a></figure>

令は効率的な運営者の市場占有率の増加と持続可能なプラットフォーム構築を輝かせるだろう。第２四半期の収益を見越して、Zuanic &amp; Associatesのシニアアナリスト、Pablo Zuanic氏は、大麻市場傾向について概要を提供した。
Zuanic氏は、連邦の改革期待、<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/06/39560744/irs-confirms-no-federal-tax-deductions-for-marijuana-businesses-until-rescheduling-is-finalized"> 280Eに関するIRSのニュース</a>、借り換えの可能性、M&amp;A戦略が感情の主要な推進要因となると強調している。
<h3>州の業績ハイライト</h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTC">フロリダ</a>：ペースの鈍化と価格のデフレにもかかわらず、フロリダの医療大麻販売は2四半期に4億7900万ドル(約530億円)に達し、四半期対四半期でわずか2％の減少率だった。この州で最も多くの店舗を持つのは、Trulieve（OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTC">TCNNF</a>）で142店、次いでVerano（OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNOF#OTC">VRNOF</a>）で77店である。</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/illinois-cannabis">イリノイ</a>：2四半期に5億5000万ドルの販売を記録し、四半期対四半期で2％の増加を示したものの、1人あたりの消費額がミシガン州の333ドルに比べて158ドルとなり、 この市場は低調な成績を収めた。この州では、Ascend（OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AAWH#OTC">AAWH</a>）、Curaleaf（OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTC">CURLF</a>）、Verano、Cresco（OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRLBF#OTC">CRLBF</a>）、Green Thumb（OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTBIF#OTC">GTBIF</a>）がそれぞれ10店舗を運営している。</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/pennsylvania-cannabis">ペンシルベニア</a>：2四半期に4億2600万ドルの売り上げを記録し、前年比で11％の増加を示した。ペンシルベニア州では、1店舗あたりの年間売上高が940万ドルに達するなど、健全な小売業の経済活動が繰り広げられている。この州で最も多くの店舗を運営するのは、Veranoで18店である。</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/arizona-cannabis">アリゾナ</a>：2四半期に3億1000万ドルの売り上げを記録し、四半期対四半期で7％の減少を示した。この州では、栽培業者と小売業者の両方に影響を及ぼすデフレが続いている。この州で最も多くの店舗を運営するのはTrulieve（21店）とCuraleaf（16店）だ。</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/maryland-cannabis">メリーランド</a>：2024年の第2四半期には、23年7月1日からのリクリエーショナルの売り上げを含めて、合計2億8400万ドル（約3,120億円）の売り上げを記録し、前年同期比で130％増となった。この州では、複数の店舗を運営する企業として、CuraleafとGreen Thumbが注目されている。</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/new-jersey-cannabis">ニュージャージー</a>：1四半期の売り上げは2億2500万ドルであり、伸びているものの、1人あたりの消費額は低調である。この州では、複数の店舗を運営する企業として、Curaleaf、Verano、Green Thumbが注目されている。</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ohio-cannabis">オハイオ</a>：リクリエーショナルの販売が始まり、2四半期には1億2000万ドル（約131億円）の医療大麻の売り上げを記録した。価格は上昇しているものの、Cresco、Green Thumb、Columbia Care（OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCHWF#OTC">CCHWF</a>）などの企業が、この州での大事な運営者となっている。今年8月の時点でオハイオ州では、医療大麻のリクリエーショナル販売が始まった。</li>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/michigan-cannabis">ミシガン</a>：2四半期には8億3700万ドル（約9,210億円）の売り上げを記録し、四半期対四半期で6％、前年同期比で11％増となった。ミシガン州は、1人あたりの消費額が333ドルという数字で、大麻業界の最大の市場となっている。この州の中で、最も多くの店舗を運営するのは、Green Peak InnovationsとLume Cannabis Co.である。</li>
</ul>
次の一歩:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/08/40139356/cannabis-sales-in-u-s-hit-32b-in-june-key-drivers-behind-all-time-record-revealed"> 6月における米国の大麻販売は320億ドルに達し、過去最高の記録を出した背景にある、重要な要因</a>
会議の概要

ペンシルベニア州が最近承認した予算には、大麻企業であるJushi Holdings（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JUSHF#OTC">JUSHF</a>）およびTILT Holdings（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TILT#OTC">TILT</a>）のような企業にとって大きな打撃を与える、大麻の娯楽利用の合法化が除外されています。
ジョシュ・シャピロ知事が支援したこの動きに対し、民主党と共和党に分かれた州議会からは<a href="https://www.spotlightpa.org/news/2024/06/pennsylvania-marijuana-recreational-legislature-passage-budget-josh-shapiro/">反対</a>が出てしまいました。規制に関する合意については、民主党が支配する州下院で合意に達しようとする一方で、大麻の娯楽利用の合法化に反対する共和党が支配する州上院は合意に達しませんでした。
新しい<a href="https://www.pa.gov/en/governor/newsroom/2024-press-releases/governor-shapiro-signs-bipartisan-2024-25-budget--investing-in-e.html">予算</a>は幅広い経済的および社会的投資に焦点を当てていますが、娯楽利用の大麻についての規定は除外しています。主な投資先は、K-12公共教育のための11.1億ドル、企業の誘致のためのサイト開発のための5億ドル、および家庭およびコミュニティを対象としたサービスのための3億5480万ドルが含まれています。
<h3>遅れの中でのJushiとTILTの戦略的動向</h3>
Jushi Holdings（OTCQB）とTILT Holdings（OTCQB）は、ペンシルベニア州での医療大麻の販売から娯楽大麻の販売への移行によって成長が促進されると予測し、大規模な投資を行っています。
Jushiの現在の企業価値は過小評価されていると見なされ、規制の透明性が与えられれば大きな上昇余力があるということを示唆しています。 Zuanic＆AssociatesのシニアアナリストPablo Zuanic氏は、「ペンシルベニア州が娯楽大麻の販売を開始すれば、Jushiの時価総額は250％以上急増する可能性がある」と述べています。
一方、TILT HoldingsはStandard Farmsを運営しており、ペンシルベニア州での事業拡大のために1050万ドルの資金調達契約を締結しました。 これらの資金は、保健省（Department of Health）の許可を受けたディスペンサリーの構築に充てられます。
「ペンシルベニア州が、TILTのStandard Farmsのような小規模な独立系栽培業者がこの新興の市場で競争できるように、我々は賞賛します」と、TILTのCEOであるTim Conder氏は<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/05/38741310/tilt-holdings-bold-financing-move-how-this-cannabis-companys-escalating-interest-rates-impact-it">述べています</a>。
しかし予想される娯楽市場がないとすると、6か月後にかなり高騰する拡大ローンの金利がTILTの財務モデルに圧迫を与える可能性があります。
<h3>ティム・シーモア氏は州による大麻の合法化をどう見るか</h3>
CNBS Amplify Seymour Cannabis ETF（NYSE：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CNBS#NYSE">CNBS</a>）のポートフォリオマネージャーであるTim Seymour氏は、連邦政府の変化よりも州レベルでの大麻の合法化の重要性を強調しました。 「大麻セクターにおける実際の経済は、成長している消費者基盤向けに積極的に製品を販売している企業によって推進されています」と、Seymour氏は<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39344068/not-dc-but-the-states-tim-seymour-discusses-how-red-states-could-catalyze-cannabis-">語りました</a>。
彼は、ペンシルベニア州のような市場が、大麻業界の成長を促進していると指摘し、州レベルの決定が大麻産業の未来にとって重要であることを示唆しています。
関連記事：
<h3>ペンシルベニア州における大麻企業</h3>
JushiとTILTの両社は、ペンシルベニア州の予算における娯楽利用の大麻の除外がもたらす不確実な規制環境に適応しなければなりません。
予算から娯楽利用の大麻が除外されたことは、分かれた州議会での合意形成の複雑さを象徴しています。Seymour氏が指摘したように、「州レベルの法制化は、実際の産業の成長につながる製品を消費者の手に届けるものです」。
Zuanic氏は、「<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/02/37242307/jushi-holdings-revs-up-unleashing-torque-in-pennsylvania-and-virginias-cannabis-expansion">娯楽利用の大麻が合法化されない</a>場合、Jushi Holdingsは医療大麻市場に制限されることで成長が制約されるだろう」と述べたように、Jushiもまた州の不確実な規制環境に適応しなければなりません。
販売の勢いと利益率の面で競合他社に遅れをとっているにも関わらず、Jushiは業務を合理化し、EBITDAマージンを大幅に改善しています。 Zuanic氏は、12月2024年に支払期日を迎える約6,500万ドルの借金の<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39470114/debt-deadline-looms-how-cannabis-companies-financial-health-could-impact-your-portf">返済の取り組み</a>に加え、Jushiの財務状況は管理可能であると考えています。
<h3>予算承認後の市場動向</h3>
2024年7月15日（月）、午後12時過ぎ、Jushi Holdings（NYSE：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/JUSHF#NYSE">JUSHF</a>）の株価は0.592ドルで、2.8449％下落し、投資家の信頼が低下していることを示しています。取引高は8339株で、市場活動は抑制的であることを示しています。時価総額は約1億1600万ドルであり、大麻セクターの中では比較的小さな企業です。
TILT Holdingsの株価は0.02211ドルで、10.55％上昇し、これは投資家からのポジティブな評価か、または最近のニュースへの反応であると考えられます。株価は6,150で、これは中規模の取引高で、時価総額は約850万ドルであり、大麻セクターの中でマイクロキャップ株式として位置づけられています。
これらは、ペンシルベニア州で<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/pennsylvania-cannabis">運営している最も重要なMSO</a>の一部です。
<ul>
<li>Curaleaf Holdings（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTC">CURLF</a>）</li>
<li>Trulieve Cannabis（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTC">TCNNF</a>）</li>
<li>Cresco Labs（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRLBF#OTC">CRLBF</a>）</li>
<li>Green Thumb Industries（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTBIF#OTC">GTBIF</a>）</li>
<li>Ayr Wellness（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/AYRWF#OTC">AYRWF</a>）</li>
<li>Verano Holdings（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNOF#OTC">VRNOF</a>）</li>
<li>TerrAscend（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TRSSF#OTC">TRSSF</a>）</li>
<li>The Cannabist Co.（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CCHWF#OTC">CCHWF</a>）</li>
</ul>
次の一手：　
これらの問題については、10月8日から9日まで開催されるベンジンガ・カンナビス・キャピタル・カンファレンス（Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference）で大いに議論されることでしょう。大麻業界の将来における投資の意味について更に多くの見識を得るために、ぜひ私たちにご参加ください。このカンファレンスで、大手企業のトップエグゼクティブ、投資家、提唱者、立法者の皆様の素晴らしいご意見をお聞きになりませんか。　<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/benzinga-capital-conference-cannabis-fall-2024-tickets-858948065787?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">チケットをお求めください</a>。
写真：AIによる生成画像。

最近、ビーコン・証券がフロリダ州の大麻産業に関する最新のレポートで、選挙への寄付、政治的支援、市場競争、財務予測の情報が提供された。
<h3>リバタリアン党の支援</h3>
レポートによると、フロリダ州のリバタリアン党は成人のマリファナ使用を合法化する措置を公式に支持したという。この支持は、党が大麻の使用に関して個人の自由を主張しているため、選挙民の立場に変化を示す可能性がある。様々な政党からの増加する政治的支援は、大麻の合法化に対する受け入れが増していることを示している。
<h3>麻業界の政治的寄付</h3>
『CBSニュース』によると、フロリダの共和党にヘンプの幹部が500万ドルの寄付を約束したと報じられた。この出来事が起きたのは、デサンティス州知事がヘンプ産業に悪影響を及ぼすことになる法案を拒否した後のことだ。
レポートによると、この拒否は戦略的な動きと見なされ、グループSave Florida HempからのWhatsAppメッセージでは、11月の投票用紙に大麻の成人利用合法化に反対するデサンティス州知事とヘンプ業界が<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/07/39760907/ron-desantis-floridas-gop-and-hemp-industry-pile-on-to-defeat-marijuana-legalization">一致した</a>と示唆しているという。
続きを読む:<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/06/39344068/not-dc-but-the-states-tim-seymour-discusses-how-red-states-could-catalyze-cannabis-">Ron DeSantis, Florida&#8217;s GOP And Hemp Industry Pile On To Defeat Marijuana Legalization</a>
<h3>新しいマリファナ店、シェア、競争</h3>
140店舗を展開し市場を主導するTrulieve Cannabis（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTC">TCNNF</a>）は、最近グルフ・ブリーズに新しい大麻店をオープンし続けている。 Verano Holdings（77店舗）は市場での存在感を高めることを目指している。
Trulieve、Curaleaf（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTC">CURLF</a>）、Verano（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNOF#OTC">VRNOF</a>）などの主要プレイヤー間の競争が激化しており、各企業はそれぞれ市場シェアを拡大するための戦略を採用している。
Beaconのレポートによると、フロリダ州保健省のデータによると、これらの企業は花およびオイルベースの製品の<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/04/38470560/landing-in-floridas-cannabis-market-legal-adult-use-marijuana-could-yield-874m-in-2">大幅な売上</a>を記録している。
<h3>財務業績</h3>
Verano HoldingsとCuraleaf Holdingsは8月7日に第2四半期の業績を発表する見込みであり、Veranoは売上高と調整後EBITDAが予測の低い方になると予測している。
これらの企業の運用キャッシュフローおよびフリーキャッシュフローは、280E税法の再スケジュール化と撤廃によって大幅に増加すると予想されている。
次を読む：<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/06/39561566/will-bidens-shaky-debate-performance-affect-cannabis-reform-how-a-trump-return-could-reshape-mar">トランプ政権の復帰がマリファナ政策をどのように再構築するか</a>
これらの問題は、今年10月8日～9日にシカゴで開催されるBenzinga Cannabis Capital Conferenceで話題になることだろう。この会議にご参加いただくと、大麻業界への投資の未来を考える上で、大麻合法化の流れが意味することについて、より深く理解することができます。トップエグゼクティブ、投資家、支持者、および政策立案者からの直接の話もお楽しみください。 <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/benzinga-capital-conference-cannabis-fall-2024-tickets-858948065787?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">このリンク</a>を<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/benzinga-capital-conference-cannabis-fall-2024-tickets-858948065787?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">クリックして</a>、チケットの価格が上がる前にお求めください。
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Legal

ビーコン・証券　リバタリアン党の支援を公式に支持

大手マリファナ企業が米国政府に対し、カンナビスの州内活動に対する禁止令の執行を阻止しようとした<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/04/38259298/cannabis-companies-clash-with-justice-dept-over-fed-prohibition-in-major-trial-seek-oral-argumen">訴訟が却下された</a>。
月曜日、米国マサチューセッツ地区連邦地裁ウェスタン部門は、現行のカンナビスのスケジューリングを再評価するには重要な理由があるにもかかわらず、最高裁判例が連邦規制（麻薬取締法）を変更する地裁の権限を制限しているため、大麻の規制に関する司法書士の動議を却下したとビジネス法誌Bloomberg Lawは伝えている。
関連リンク：スターバックス、大麻販売業者を訴追&lt;/p
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">裁判所の判決</h3>
この件を担当したマサチューセッツ地区連邦地裁ウェスタン部門の判事は、大統領バラク・オバマによって任命されたマーク・G・マストロイアン氏だった。彼は司法省の訴えが原告の立証を上回るとして、この訴訟の却下を命じた。
「要求された救済措置は最高裁判所の判例と矛盾しており、したがってこの法廷にはその救済を認める権限はない」と彼は述べた。
そして、原告が「商業条項の幅広い解釈を無視するための法的根拠を提供していない」と判事は付け加えた。
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">事件の背景</h3>
この訴訟「カンナ・プロビジョン対ガーランド」を率いたのは、多州運営企業を率いるVerano Holdings Corp.（OTC:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNOF#OTC">VRNOF</a>）（以下「ベラーノ」）と、マサチューセッツ州に拠点を置く大麻事業「カンナ・プロビジョン」、Wiseacre Farm、Treevit CEOGyasi Sellers（以下「セラーズ」）。
彼らは、麻薬取締法の連邦規制が合理的な根拠を持っていないと主張した。
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">議論とその影響</h3>
この事件の中心にあったのは、州内のカンナビスの活動とそれが州を越えた商業に与える影響に関する議論だ。司法省は、州が規制する大麻産業は外州からの観光客を引き付け、それによって州間通商に影響を与えると主張している。
4月の提出において、「マサチューセッツ州における規制された大麻産業が、大麻観光という異なる種類の州間通商を推進すると結論づけることは合理的である」と司法省は述べている。
一方、原告たちは、州内の規制された活動に関して州の権限が影響を受けることはない、と主張した。
地裁は、訴訟を起こす立場にあると認めながらも、連邦規則の州間通商に影響を及ぼす州内活動を規制する最高裁判所の判決を引き合いに出し、最終的には政府側を支持した。
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">今後の展開</h3>
裁判所はこの訴訟を却下したが、マストロイアン判事は原告たちが最高裁判所に関心を持つか、もしくは麻薬取締法の再分類や大麻の取り扱いからの撤退に関心を持つ可能性があると述べている。
「原告たちは、大麻が誤って分類されていると主張しており、提訴時点で、本法廷では大麻の安全性とその治療効果に関する彼らの主張を真実と受け入れる」と裁判所は承認した。
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">このより広い文脈</h3>
この判決が出されたのは、大麻のスケジューリングを麻薬取締法の第I表から第III表に再調整するという、司法省が検討している動きがある中でのことである。この動きに関しては、司法省の弁護士たちが、最高裁判所の判例を理性的な根拠として引用している。
マストロイアン判事は、連邦法の下で大麻が依然として第I表の麻薬であることを強調し、ほぼ全ての大麻関連の活動が連邦犯罪になると指摘した。
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">業界の反応</h3>
この訴訟を担当した訴訟弁護士デイヴィッド・ボイズ氏は、司法省や前副大統領アル・ゴア氏などの有名な顧客を代理してきた。
この判決について振り返り、「上訴において、我々は引き続き、連邦政府が州が規制する大麻の禁止に対して合理的な根拠を持っていないとの立場を主張し続けるだろう」という弁護士ジョシュ・シラー氏のコメントがあった。
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">政治的背景</h3>
大麻業界が法的な挑戦に直面する中、バイデン政権はその大麻政策を、前大統領のドナルド・トランプ氏と対照的なものとして強調しようとしている。
バイデンの大統領選キャンペーンは最近、大統領の恩赦の活動を促進するために、大麻が「かつて私たちが信じていたほど危険ではない」という視点を強調した広告を<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/06/39534238/biden-bashes-trumps-failed-approach-on-cannabis-new-campaign-page-says-marijuana-not-as-dangerou">公開した</a>。
次に読むべきは…
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/07/39584512/gop-lawmaker-in-n-carolina-calls-cannabis-%E2%80%98a-gateway-drug%E2%80%99-despite-state-reform-approval-illegal-weed-sales-flourish-in-trenton-nj-and-more-updates">N. キャロライナ州の共和党議員、州での大麻の利点について証言</a></li>
</ul>

米国政府への訴訟を却下　大麻合法化を巡り

メリーランド州の大麻市場が成熟するにつれ、大麻の娯楽販売開始に備えるオハイオ州などの州にとって、これは有益な知見を提供する。 Zuanic＆AssociatesのPablo Zuanic氏は、メリーランドの安定性、競争風景、および市場動向を他の州の参考モデルとして挙げている。メリーランドの経験を理解することで、オハイオ州は大麻産業の発展における課題と機会を予測することができるだろう。
オハイオとメリーランドは、両方とも市場構造と規制環境が似ており、Zuanic氏によれば、この比較はオハイオ州にとって有益だという。 <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/23/11/35991290/analyst-inside-look-trends-and-opportunities-in-ohios-emerging-recreational-cannabi">メリーランド</a>同様、<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/23/11/35991290/analyst-inside-look-trends-and-opportunities-in-ohios-emerging-recreational-cannabi">オハイオ</a>も、医療用からリクリエーション用の市場への移行を果たし、現在のオペレーターが先行している。さらに、両州とも、それぞれが大麻プログラムを確立した周辺地域からの競争に直面している。
報告書には、「メリーランド州と<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/illinois-cannabis">イリノイ</a>州はともに、医療用大麻からの娯楽用販売への順調な移行を経て、平均を上回る経済状況を享受している。特筆すべきことは、先行してリクリエーション販売に参入したオペレーターがいることで、ニューヨークとは異なり、彼らはこの先行スタートを活かしている。私たちは、<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/ohio-cannabis">オハイオ</a>でも同様の変化が見られることを予想している」と述べられている。
これらの共通の特徴により、メリーランドの経験はオハイオ州にとって関連性のある教育的モデルとなり、オハイオ州が市場開発における潜在的な課題を予測し、それに対処する手助けをすることができる。
<h3>安定した販売と市場動向</h3>
2023年7月の娯楽販売開始以来、<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/maryland-cannabis">メリーランド</a>の総大麻販売は、2024年4月までに2億7300万ドルの1％のみ成長し、頭打ちしている。
Zuanic氏は、この要因について、高価な大麻、静的な店舗数、およびニュージャージーやペンシルバニアなどの周辺州からの競合があると説明している。 「大半の東部州よりも価格帯が高いことが問題になるかもしれない」
メリーランド州のフラワー価格は、2024年第2四半期時点で1グラムあたり8.76ドルと高い位置にあり、イリノイ（1グラムあたり8.11ドル）やマサチューセッツ（1グラムあたり5.12ドル）よりも大幅に高い価格である。
<h3>市場シェアとブランドのパフォーマンス</h3>
メリーランド州では、公開されているマルチステートオペレータ（MSO）が約40％の安定した<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/24/05/39076254/top-ohio-cannabis-companies-analyst-look-at-stocks-with-potential-market-cap-gains">市場シェア</a>を保有している。Green Thumb（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GTBIF#OTC">GTBIF</a>）は12.5％のシェア率で最も多く、その次がCuraleaf（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CURLF#OTC">CURLF</a>）（8.4％）、Verano（OTC：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/VRNOF#OTC">VRNOF</a>）（7％）が続く。
特筆すべきことは、非公開のMSOと地域オペレータも重要な役割を果たしているということだ。 「MDの場合、MSOは約40％のブランド市場シェアを維持し、小売店の約3分の1を所有しています」とZuanic氏は説明する。
上位のブランドの間での市場シェアは競争が激しく、フラワーカテゴリーのトップ3ブランドは合計23％のシェアを持っている。フェイプカテゴリーでは、CuraleafのSelectを含むリーディングブランドが39％のシェアを占めている。
<h3>価格動向と将来の見通し</h3>
メリーランド州の大麻価格は、リクリエーション販売の最初のうちにわずかな下落を経験した。2013年第3四半期以降、フラワーの価格は7〜8％、ベイプの価格は14％下落している。 それにもかかわらず、価格は他の東部州よりも高いままだ。 「リクリエーション販売に移行したことで、2023年第3四半期時点でベイプの価格がクォーターオンクォーターで16％上昇し、それ以降14％下落しています」とZuanic氏は語る。
ペンシルバニア州、デラウェア州などの周辺州がリクリエーション大麻の合法化を検討することで、メリーランド州の大麻価格にはさらなる圧力がかかる可能性がある。 「PA、DE、DCがリクリエーション大麻に転換する可能性があるのであれば、将来的にはMDにも価格圧力がかかると予想されます」とZuanic氏は予測している。
ニュージャージー州ベンジンガ大麻市場スポットライト（<a href="https://cannabismarketspotlight.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Benzinga Cannabis Market Spotlight</a>）で、6月17日（木）にリーディングカンナビス企業の情報を手に入れよう！ ビジネスを成長させ、資金を調達し、NJ州の成長する娯楽用大麻市場を活用しよう。ニューブランズウィックで開催されるこの大切なイベントを見逃すな。 チケットを手に入れよう。空席が残りわずかだ。 <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/benzinga-market-spotlight-new-jersey-cannabis-registration-871406729987?discount=JAVIER20" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">20％引きのプロモーションコード「JAVIER20」を使用する</a>
<img decoding="async" style="height: 264px; width: 633px;" src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/u503488/c.events_600x250_3.png" alt="c.events_600x250_3.png" />
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Management

大麻市場から学べること　投資家が釈明

フロリダ州の知事であるロン・デサンティス（共和党）は、2024年11月の選挙でフロリダ州民が投票する大麻合法化修正案について、別の非難を浴びせた。今回は、同氏がK-12スクールの近くで大麻を吸うと考えられる人々を非難している。
「小学校のような教育機関の近くで大麻を吸う人が横切ることを認可してもいいのか？」とデサンティス氏は水曜日、マイアミで行われたイベントで記者団に語った。「フロリダ州にとってそれがいい結果を生むと思わない」と非難した。
この提案は、Amendment 3として知られており、フロリダ最高裁判所によって最近<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cannabis/24/04/38034138/florida-supreme-court-approves-cannabis-legalization-proposal-for-november-election-in-blow-to-d">11月の投票用紙に進むことが承認された</a>。この修正案は、Smart and Safe Floridaによって組織され、その実、州がタバコの公共での消費を規制しているように、立法府に対して「屋外での大麻使用と公共での大麻使用を制限するための権限」を与えるものだ。
<h1 class="wp-block-heading">それでもデサンティス知事は批判を続ける</h1>
「この修正法はこれまでで最も幅広いものであり、フロリダ州の全地域で公然での大麻使用を許可することと同意義と捉えている」とデサンティス氏は述べた（<a href="https://floridapolitics.com/archives/670027-gov-desantis-slams-marijuana-amendment-again-warns-of-toking-up-near-schools/">Florida Politicsの報告</a>）。「これは家族にとって良いことではないし、老人にとっても良いことではない。」
そして、デサンティス知事は、自身が語っている間に数マイル先のハリウッド、フロリダの<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/events/cannabis-conference/">Benzinga Cannabis Capital Conference</a> で開催されたイベントで、フロリダ州の修正案を支持する大麻企業を激怒させた。
「この法案のために数千万ドルを使用する意義を理解できない。大麻企業はこの修正案によって莫大な利益を上げることができる。」と非難的な言葉を口にした。
Trulieve Cannabis Corp（OTCQX：<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TCNNF#OTCQX">TCNNF</a>）をはじめとする大麻会社は名前は出ていないが、これまでに少なくとも1,500万ドル以上の資金を提供して修正案を支持している。この提案に資金を提供している会社は、Verano Holdings Corp（OTCQX：<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/vrnof#OTCQX">VRNOF</a>）、Curaleaf Holdings Inc（OTCQX：<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/curlf#OTCQX">CURLF</a>）、AYR Wellness Inc（OTCQX：<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ayrwf#OTCQX">AYRWF</a>）、Cresco Labs Inc。（OTCQX：<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/crlbf#OTCQX">CRLBF</a>）、Green Thumb Industries Inc（OTCQX：<a href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/gtbif#OTCQX">GTBIF</a>） 、INSA, Inc。含まれている。
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