The stock market faced a turbulent week as major indices recorded consecutive losses, with the S&P 500 falling 1.9%, the Nasdaq Composite dropping 2.3%, and the Dow sliding nearly 1.9%. Wall Street’s post-election rally was erased amid rising concerns over interest rates, fueled by a strong labor market, soaring inflation expectations, and escalating geopolitical tensions as President-elect Donald Trump nears a return to the White House.
December’s nonfarm payrolls surged to 256,000, far surpassing estimates, intensifying pressure on the Federal Reserve to curb inflation. Meanwhile, new sanctions targeting Russian oil companies and a spike in oil prices added further market instability.
The Bulls: Stocks That Shined
Table of Contents
- Nvidia CEO’s Quantum Computing Remarks send Stocks Tumbling, Rigetti Emerges as 2025 Favorite
- China’s Export Restrictions Target U.S. Defense Giants Amid Rising Trade Tensions
Despite the broader market downturn, several stocks stood out as bright spots.Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. (AMD) unveiled its Ryzen AI Max series processors and enterprise-focused Ryzen PRO chips, showcasing AI-powered performance innovations for PCs, laptops, and gaming devices.This proclamation, made ahead of CES 2025, sparked investor optimism and drove shares higher.
Rivian Automotive Inc. (RIVN) also made headlines, achieving 51,579 EV deliveries in 2024, surpassing analyst expectations.The company’s plans for its 2026 R2 line and expanded joint ventures with Volkswagen AG (VWAGY) drove a positive outlook despite concerns over EV tax credits.
In a groundbreaking development, Intuitive Machines and Nokia launched a 4G/LTE network, marking a meaningful step in space dialog technology.This collaboration highlights the growing intersection of telecommunications and space exploration.
Key Market Highlights
| Index | Weekly Change | Key drivers |
|——————–|——————-|———————————————————————————|
| S&P 500 | -1.9% | Rising interest rates, strong labor market, geopolitical tensions |
| Nasdaq Composite | -2.3% | Inflation concerns, tech sector volatility |
| Dow Jones | -1.9% | Post-election rally erased, oil price spikes, Federal Reserve pressure |
Looking Ahead
As investors navigate the current market landscape, the focus remains on the Federal Reserve’s next moves and the potential impact of geopolitical developments. The strong labor market and rising inflation expectations continue to weigh on sentiment, while innovations in technology and space exploration offer glimmers of hope for growth-oriented investors.
For more insights into the stocks driving market trends, explore Benzinga’s latest analysis and stay ahead of the curve.
Nvidia CEO’s Quantum Computing Remarks send Stocks Tumbling, Rigetti Emerges as 2025 Favorite
The quantum computing sector is facing turbulence as Nvidia Corp (NASDAQ: NVDA) CEO Jensen Huang casts doubt on the near-term practicality of the technology. His cautionary remarks have sent stocks like Rigetti Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: RGTI),Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: QUBT), and D-Wave quantum Inc. (NYSE: QBTS) into a downward spiral. Despite the sell-off, a recent poll by Benzinga reveals that over 50% of readers are betting on Rigetti as their top pick for 2025.
Quantum Computing’s Rocky Road
Quantum computing, often hailed as the next frontier in technology, has been a hot topic among investors. Though, Jensen huang’s recent comments have tempered expectations. The Nvidia CEO emphasized that the practical applications of quantum computing are still years away, causing a ripple effect across the sector.
“The timeline for quantum computing to become commercially viable is longer than many anticipate,” Huang stated. This sentiment has led to a sharp decline in stocks tied to the industry. Rigetti Computing, as an example, saw its shares drop considerably, as did Quantum Computing Inc. and D-Wave Quantum.
Despite the downturn, Benzinga readers remain optimistic about Rigetti computing. in a poll, over 50% of respondents chose Rigetti as their preferred quantum computing stock for 2025, signaling confidence in the company’s long-term potential.
| Company | Ticker | Exchange | Recent Performance |
|————————-|————|————–|————————|
| Rigetti Computing Inc. | RGTI | NASDAQ | Steep Decline |
| Quantum Computing Inc.| QUBT | NASDAQ | Significant Drop |
| D-Wave Quantum Inc. | QBTS | NYSE | Sharp Decline |
Dogecoin Faces Potential Downturn
In the cryptocurrency world, Dogecoin (CRYPTO: DOGE/USD) is under scrutiny as analysts predict a possible price drop. According to a report by Aniket Verma, a notable crypto analyst has warned that Dogecoin coudl face a significant dump if Bitcoin fails to rebound.
“if Bitcoin doesn’t bounce back soon, Dogecoin could see further declines,” the analyst noted. This warning comes as the broader crypto market experiences volatility, with Dogecoin struggling to maintain its value.
Lunar Network Breakthrough
In a groundbreaking development, Intuitive Machines Inc. (NASDAQ: LUNR) and Nokia Corp. (NYSE: NOK) are teaming up to deploy the first 4G/LTE lunar network. This collaboration, part of the IM-2 mission, aims to enable high-definition video and telemetry transmission via the Athena lander.
“This is a monumental step in space communication,” said a spokesperson for Intuitive machines. The integration of Nokia’s technology is expected to revolutionize lunar exploration, paving the way for more advanced missions in the future.
Bullish Calls to Watch
For investors seeking bullish opportunities, several analysts have highlighted promising stocks. Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) is expected to showcase strong advertising and live sports performance in its Q4 earnings, while Nike (NYSE: NKE) is being touted as a “visible recovery story” for 2025. Additionally, Taiwan Semiconductor (NYSE: TSM) is ramping up production in japan, the US, and Germany to diversify away from China.
Final Thoughts
While Jensen Huang’s remarks have cast a shadow over the quantum computing sector, rigetti Computing remains a favorite among Benzinga readers. meanwhile, Dogecoin investors are bracing for potential declines, and the collaboration between Intuitive Machines and Nokia marks a significant leap in space technology.
As always, investors are advised to stay informed and consider both the risks and opportunities in these rapidly evolving markets.
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For more insights and updates, explore our latest articles on trending market topics.
China’s Export Restrictions Target U.S. Defense Giants Amid Rising Trade Tensions
In a significant escalation of trade tensions, China has imposed export restrictions on dual-use items to 28 U.S. companies, including major defense contractors like Boeing Co. (NYSE: BA), Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE: LMT), General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE: GD), and RTX Corp. (NYSE: RTX). The move is widely seen as retaliation for U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, further straining the already tense relationship between the two global powers.
The Impact on U.S. Defense and Aerospace Companies
The export ban targets dual-use items, which are goods and technologies that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. This restriction could disrupt supply chains for key U.S. defense contractors, perhaps delaying production and increasing costs.
- Boeing Co. (NYSE: BA): As a leading aerospace manufacturer, Boeing relies on global supply chains for components used in both commercial and military aircraft.
- lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE: LMT): known for its F-35 fighter jets, Lockheed Martin could face delays in production if critical components are affected.
- General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE: GD): The company’s defense and marine systems divisions may experience disruptions.
- RTX Corp. (NYSE: RTX): Formerly Raytheon Technologies, RTX produces advanced missile systems and aerospace technologies that could be impacted.
| Company | Ticker | Potential Impact |
|————————-|————|————————————————————————————-|
| Boeing Co. | BA | Disruptions in commercial and military aircraft production. |
| Lockheed Martin Corp. | LMT | Delays in F-35 fighter jet production. |
| General Dynamics Corp. | GD | Supply chain issues for defense and marine systems. |
| RTX Corp. | RTX | Challenges in producing advanced missile systems and aerospace technologies. |
Broader Implications for U.S.-China Relations
The export restrictions come amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and China, particularly over Taiwan. the U.S.has continued to supply arms to taiwan, a move that Beijing views as a violation of its sovereignty. China’s latest action underscores its willingness to use economic measures to exert pressure on U.S. companies and policymakers.
This development also highlights the growing risks for multinational corporations operating in politically sensitive industries. As trade tensions persist,companies may need to diversify their supply chains and reduce reliance on Chinese components.
The news of China’s export restrictions coincides with other significant market developments:
- Biden Administration’s Offshore Drilling Ban: The Biden administration’s plan to ban future offshore oil drilling could impact energy stocks and ETFs. For more details, see Biden Set To Ban Future Offshore Oil Drilling: 4 Stocks, 2 ETFs To watch.
- Goldman Sachs Warns of Market Correction: Rising inflation and uncertainty surrounding Trump-era policies have prompted Goldman Sachs to flag potential market corrections. Learn more in Goldman Sachs Flags Market Correction Risk As Inflation, Trump Policies stir uncertainty.
- US Steel and Nippon Steel Legal Battle: The Biden administration’s decision to block the merger between US Steel and Nippon Steel has led to a lawsuit. Read the full story in US Steel, Nippon Steel Sue Biden Administration, Cleveland-Cliffs, Union In Response To Blocked Merger.
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Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.
This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
© 2025 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice.All rights reserved.
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Dogecoin Scrutinized as analysts Predict potential Price Drop
According to a report by Aniket Verma, a notable crypto analyst has warned that Dogecoin could face a meaningful price drop if Bitcoin fails to rebound.
“If Bitcoin doesn’t bounce back soon, Dogecoin could see further declines,” the analyst noted. This warning comes as the broader crypto market experiences volatility,with Dogecoin struggling to maintain its value.
Lunar Network Breakthrough
In a groundbreaking progress, Intuitive Machines Inc. (NASDAQ: LUNR) and Nokia Corp. (NYSE: NOK) are teaming up to deploy the first 4G/LTE lunar network. This collaboration, part of the IM-2 mission, aims to enable high-definition video and telemetry transmission via the Athena lander.
“This is a monumental step in space communication,” saeid a spokesperson for Intuitive Machines. The integration of Nokia’s technology is expected to revolutionize lunar exploration, paving the way for more advanced missions in the future.
Bullish Calls to Watch
For investors seeking bullish opportunities, several analysts have highlighted promising stocks:
- Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX) is expected to showcase strong advertising and live sports performance in its Q4 earnings.
- Nike (NYSE: NKE) is being touted as a “visible recovery story” for 2025.
- Taiwan Semiconductor (NYSE: TSM) is ramping up production in japan, the US, and Germany to diversify away from China.
Final Thoughts
While Jensen Huang’s remarks have cast a shadow over the quantum computing sector, Rigetti Computing remains a favorite among Benzinga readers.Meanwhile, Dogecoin investors are bracing for potential declines, and the collaboration between Intuitive Machines and Nokia marks a significant leap in space technology.
As always, investors are advised to stay informed and consider both the risks and opportunities in these rapidly evolving markets.
China’s Export Restrictions Target U.S. Defense Giants Amid Rising Trade Tensions
In a significant escalation of trade tensions, China has imposed export restrictions on dual-use items to 28 U.S.companies, including major defense contractors like Boeing Co. (NYSE: BA), Lockheed Martin Corp. (NYSE: LMT), General Dynamics Corp. (NYSE: GD),and RTX Corp. (NYSE: RTX). The move is widely seen as retaliation for U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, further straining the already tense relationship between the two global powers.
The Impact on U.S. Defense and Aerospace companies
The export ban targets dual-use items,which are goods and technologies that can be used for both civilian and military purposes. This restriction could disrupt supply chains for key U.S. defense contractors, potentially delaying production and increasing costs.
| Company | Ticker | Potential Impact |
|—————————|————|————————————————————————————-|
| Boeing Co. | BA | Relies on global supply chains for components used in commercial and military aircraft. |
| Lockheed Martin Corp. | LMT | Known for F-35 fighter jets; could face delays in production if critical components are affected. |
| General Dynamics Corp.| GD | Defense and marine systems divisions may experience disruptions. |
| RTX Corp. | RTX | formerly Raytheon Technologies; produces advanced missile systems and aerospace technologies that could be impacted. |
For more insights and updates, explore our latest articles on trending market topics.
