Streetbeat News

Security

MSFT

Microsoft Corp (NASDAQ:MSFT) has detected a resurgence of Russian online influence operations targeting the upcoming U.S. presidential election, with activities including criticism of American support for Ukraine and increased hacking by the group Star Blizzard. These operations, observed over the past 45 days, raise concerns about foreign interference and the use of AI in election meddling. Microsoft's findings highlight the potential impact of digital forgeries and the importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding the election process.

Portfolio Pulse from Benzinga Neuro

April 18, 2024 | 6:23 am

UNH

UnitedHealth Group (NYSE:UNH) reported better-than-expected Q1 revenue and earnings, despite a cyberattack on its subsidiary Change Healthcare. Adjusted EPS was $6.91, beating the consensus of $6.62, with revenues increasing to $99.8 billion. Analysts from Piper Sandler, Truist, and Goldman Sachs have raised their price targets and maintained positive ratings, citing controlled growth strategy, strong core trends, and financial flexibility.

Portfolio Pulse from Vandana Singh

April 17, 2024 | 7:54 pm

AMZN

Amazon.com announced that its Just Walk Out technology does not use or collect any biometric information of shoppers, according to Reuters. This clarification comes amid growing concerns over privacy and data security in retail technologies.

Portfolio Pulse from Benzinga Newsdesk

April 17, 2024 | 3:12 pm

ALK

Alaska Airlines experienced a ground stop due to an IT issue, as reported by CNBC. This temporary halt in operations could impact the airline's schedule, potentially affecting customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Portfolio Pulse from Benzinga Newsdesk

April 17, 2024 | 3:07 pm

BTCUSD

Pavel Durov, co-founder of Telegram, revealed holding 'a few hundred million dollars' in Bitcoin and fiat, emphasizing the importance of secure communication tools amid increasing government surveillance. Durov highlighted the challenges faced by privacy-focused services, including attempts by the FBI to infiltrate Telegram. He advocates for the UAE as a base for such enterprises due to its geopolitical neutrality and discussed the financial independence of his company from venture capital. The context includes warnings about expanded NSA surveillance capabilities.

Portfolio Pulse from Murtuza Merchant

April 17, 2024 | 2:56 pm

SIGA

Traders are closely monitoring SIGA Technologies following circulation of a U.S. Sun article reporting the discovery of a mutant strain of Mpox with pandemic potential in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This development could impact SIGA Technologies, known for its involvement in health security and disease treatment.

Portfolio Pulse from Benzinga Newsdesk

April 17, 2024 | 2:55 pm

BA

Boeing has expressed full confidence in the safety of its 787 Dreamliner and 777 models, according to Bloomberg. This statement comes amidst scrutiny and concerns over aircraft safety standards.

Portfolio Pulse from Benzinga Newsdesk

April 17, 2024 | 2:01 pm

AAPL

BB

GOOGL

BlackBerry has identified a resurgence of the LightSpy espionage campaign, targeting Apple's iPhones, particularly in Southern Asia. Originating from China, this sophisticated malware campaign aims to extract sensitive information from targeted individuals. The campaign's revival highlights the escalating cyber threats globally, with Apple and Google reporting increased cyber espionage activities. Apple's stock saw a slight increase in premarket trading following the report.

Portfolio Pulse from Rounak Jain

April 17, 2024 | 1:31 pm

MCHI

Chinese exporters at the Canton Fair are facing challenges despite China's 5.3% economic growth in Q1, including a decline in exports and producer prices. Increased economic and political tensions with the U.S., global trade slowdowns, and manufacturing overcapacity are key issues. Some sectors, like high-tech, remain optimistic due to government support. Trade tensions could worsen with potential U.S. tariffs and blacklisting of Chinese companies. The iShares MSCI China ETF (MCHI) saw a 1.02% dip.

Portfolio Pulse from Benzinga Neuro

April 17, 2024 | 12:58 pm

EIS

SPY

USO

Iran is preparing its Air Force for potential strikes and has directed its Navy to escort ships in the Red Sea in anticipation of retaliatory actions from Israel. This development comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, which could have significant implications for regional stability and global oil markets.

Portfolio Pulse from Charles Gross

April 17, 2024 | 11:15 am