Retailers Face “Consumer Joy Deficit” This Holiday Season
“Consumer joy deficit” describes 2025 holiday shoppers’ cautious mindset amid high prices and stress, prompting retailers to adopt more empathetic marketing and value‑driven strategies.
U.S. Consumer Spending Growth Expected to Slow in 2026
Moody’s projects U.S. consumer spending growth to slow to roughly 1.5% in 2026, with labor market and affordability pressures dampening demand.
Tariffs Top Concern for Semiconductor Leaders in 2026: KPMG
A new KPMG survey reveals tariffs and trade policy have overtaken labor as the semiconductor industry's top concern, as leaders prioritize global supply chain diversification in 2026.
Kroger to Invest $391 M in New Kentucky Distribution Hub
Kroger announces a $391 million distribution center in Simpson County, Kentucky, blending automation with 430 new full‑time jobs to strengthen regional logistics.
PayPal Applies to Launch Industrial Bank to Aid Small Businesses
PayPal has applied to launch PayPal Bank, a Utah-based industrial loan company focused on improving capital access for small businesses nationwide.
Monetary Policy on Track as Fed Eyes Slower Inflation
New York Fed President John Williams says recent Fed action leaves monetary policy in a good position heading into 2026, expecting inflation to moderate and balanced economic growth.
iRobot Files Chapter 11 Bankruptcy After Roomba Struggles
iRobot, the maker of Roomba robotic vacuums, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and will be taken private under a restructuring plan with its contract manufacturer as it faces intensified competition and financial pressures.
Cold‑Chain Packaging Shifts Amid Dry Ice Constraints
Cold‑chain packaging companies are innovating with alternatives and sustainable solutions as CO2‑driven dry ice supply tightens, impacting frozen shipping and logistics.
Rivian’s Next-Gen Autonomous Driving Goes Beyond Highways
Rivian will expand its hands-free driving to surface streets in early 2026. Universal Hands-Free promises full-route autonomy for eligible EVs.
AP-NORC Poll: Americans Tighten Holiday Budgets Heading Into 2026
AP-NORC poll shows U.S. consumers tightening holiday budgets in 2025. Rising costs and cautious spending are shaping the shopping season and 2026 outlook.
RXO Curve Q4 2025 Truckload Outlook and 2026 Market Forecast
RXO Curve reports flat truckload rates in Q4 2025 but predicts potential 2026 recovery. Explore market trends, capacity, and freight insights.
U.S. Imposes Phased Tariffs on Nicaraguan Goods Over Human Rights
The U.S. is phasing in tariffs on Nicaraguan imports due to labor and human rights concerns, challenging supply chains and sourcing strategies in 2026.
Oracle Stock Drops Amid AI Spending and OpenAI Reliance Concerns
Oracle shares fell sharply as investors fear heavy AI spending and reliance on OpenAI contracts. Learn why this stock move matters for 2026 tech investors.
Q4 2025 Market Outlook: Valuations High, Macro Risks Loom
As Q4 2025 began, equity valuations remain rich and markets are driven by AI‑linked stocks, with value and small caps offering potential opportunities amid macro uncertainty.
Fed Cuts Rate by Quarter Point, Projects Only One Cut in 2026
The Fed lowered rates by 0.25% in December but signaled only one cut likely in 2026, maintaining a cautious stance amid persistent inflation.
Walmart Stock Outlook 2026: Nasdaq Debut and Growth Momentum
Walmart’s 2025 Nasdaq transition, holiday-driven sales surge, and bullish analyst forecasts set the stage for potential stock gains and stronger tech-enabled growth in 2026.