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We may earn a commission from links on this page. Cooking can be a creative outlet, a way of showing affection, and a way to take control of your health. But cooking can also be stressful and time-consuming, especially on a weeknight when you're already exhausted from a long day at work and you've got a hungry family (or just yourself) to feed. Ordering in is always tempting, but that gets expensive and can have an adverse impact on your waistline. You might already have some of the more obvious and established time-saving appliances in your kitchen, but you can always shave a few more minutes and adrenaline spikes off your nightly cook. These kitchen gadgets will make cooking weeknight dinners easier no matter what the menu looks like. Snap-on strainers prevent you from dumping pasta in the sink If you have ever had a weeknight dinner go off the rails due to a pot of pasta accidentally dumped in the sink during a straining misadventure, know that snap-on strainers exist. Just pop one onto your pot, and you can easily strain without worrying about the dreaded dump out (or a fourth-degree burn from pasta water). These strainers are flexible and will fit just about any pot or pan you need to strain out of. An automatic pot stirrer will stir while you finish other tasksCooking is often a series of dull, repetitive tasks, and sometimes those tasks need to be performed simultaneously—so why not at least outsource all that pot stirring? This battery-operated device does just what it says: You place it in your pot or pan, press the button, and it stirs anything that needs it while you go and live your life (or chop vegetables). Uutensil Stirr - The Unique Automatic Pan Stirrer - With LED Speed Indicator, Red $38.95 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $38.95 at Amazon "Souper Cubes" help you better portion food to freeze for laterHere's a mistake I make over and over again when prepping sauces, stock, or soup for future dinners: I forget to divide it up before I pop it in the freezer. When it's time to make that weekday dinner, I have plenty of pre-made sauce—or, rather, I have too much of it, and I either defrost the whole bit and waste some or try hacking off a piece. Enter: Souper Cubes. These are like ice cube trays for food, and make it easy to freeze precise amounts of prepped or leftover food. Oven guards protect your hands from hot racks Anyone who cooks regularly has the minor wounds and scars to show for it—including the tell-tale burns from hurriedly grabbing stuff from a hot oven. Oven rack guards allow you to throw caution to the wind when pulling trays out of a crowded oven, even when reaching into a lower rack or grabbing something that's migrated to the rear of the oven. A self-stirring cooker lets you outsource most of the meal's workIf an automated pot stirrer is cool, a cooker that also stirs itself is even cooler. If your life goals include being able to make dinner every night while somehow doing other things, this is the kitchen appliance you need. It can cook a wide range of meals more or less on its own, and will stir meals automatically. Just load up your ingredients, set your parameters, and walk away. An automatic can opener saves time and effortCooking using canned ingredients is nothing to be ashamed of, but opening all those cans can be a chore that keeps you away from other cooking tasks. Enter the automatic can opener—just pop it on a can, press the button, and let it do its thing while you do literally anything more useful with your time. A warming mat will keep everything hot for youIf your dinner plans involve more than one dish, you know the stress of being on the clock when something is ready long before the rest of the meal. Serving up cold sides or sauces is no fun, so a warming mat like this is the answer. Just place dishes on it as they're ready and keep working on the balance of the meal, and everything will still be piping hot by the time you're ready to sit down. A divided skillet lets you cook multiple things at onceWe've all been there: You need to fry up several different things, but you only have one skillet. Your choice is to desperately cook and put aside each portion of the meal, or get yourself a divided non-stick skillet that makes it easy to cook several things simultaneously, speeding up your dinner process and ensuring that everything hits the table hot and ready. Master Pan Non-Stick Divided Grill/Fry/Oven Meal Skillet, 15", Black $65.59 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $65.59 at Amazon A "Thaw Claw" can speed up your defrosting processIf you're like me and you consistently forget to plan ahead when it comes to thawing out frozen ingredients ahead of time, you also know the struggle of trying to speed up the process. Submerging frozen meat in cold water is a proven way of speeding up the thawing process—unless your frozen goods just float to the surface. Enter the Thaw Claw, a simple device that clamps your frozen food to the bottom of your sink or bowl so it can defrost more quickly and effectively. Digital measuring spoons save you time on measuringSaving time when cooking dinner is all about accumulating small wins. The time spent weighing and measuring all the ingredients for your meal adds up, so having a digital measuring spoon can make the process faster and more efficient, since you won't have to place anything on a scale, adjust, and then use a separate implement to transfer it to your pots and skillets. Just measure as you scoop and keep moving. "Fry Away" disposes of oil or grease more easilyCleanup is part of the time and effort of any mid-week meal, and if you were tired before you started making dinner, you're not going to be less tired after eating. So make cleanup a little easier with Fry Away, which makes disposing of all that grease and oil a very simple process: Add some to hot oil or grease, let it cool, and then peel off the somewhat gross results and toss into the trash. Not having a jar of old oil sitting on the kitchen counter (or not calling a plumber to clean your drains if you're too lazy to have a jar of old oil on your kitchen counter) or needing to scrub away at a greasy pan? This is the way. View the full article

Adjustments related to higher credit risk weights for new acquisitions and rate shifts offset increases in the government-sponsored enterprise's core earnings. View the full article

The Federal Aviation Administration reopened the airspace around El Paso International Airport in Texas on Wednesday morning, just hours after it announced a 10-day closure that would have grounded all flights to and from the airport. The Federal Aviation Administration said in a social media post that it has lifted the temporary closure of the airspace over El Paso, saying there was no threat to commercial aviation and that all flights will resume. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in a post on X that the FAA and the Defense Department “acted swiftly to address a cartel drone incursion. The threat has been neutralized and there is no danger to commercial travel in the region.” He said normal flights are resuming Wednesday morning. He did not say how many drones were involved or what specifically was done to disable them. The shutdown announced just hours earlier “for special security reasons” had been expected to create significant disruptions given the duration and the size of the metropolitan area. El Paso, a border city with a population of nearly 700,000 people and larger when you include the surrounding metro area, is hub of cross-border commerce alongside the neighboring city of Ciudad Juarez in Mexico. The brief closure does not include Mexican airspace. The airport said in an Instagram post after the closure was announced that all flights to and from the airport would be grounded from late Tuesday through late on February 20, including commercial, cargo, and general aviation flights. It suggested travelers contact their airlines to get up-to-date flight information. Rep. Veronica Escobar, a Democrat whose district includes El Paso, had urged the FAA to lift the restrictions in a statement Wednesday morning. There was no advance notice given to her office, the city of El Paso or airport operations, she said. “The highly consequential decision by FAA to shut down the El Paso Airport for 10 days is unprecedented and has resulted in significant concern within the community,” Escobar said. “From what my office and I have been able to gather overnight and early this morning there is no immediate threat to the community or surrounding areas.” The airport describes itself as the gateway to west Texas, southern New Mexico, and northern Mexico. Southwest, United, American, and Delta all operate flights there, among others. A similar temporary flight restriction for special security reasons over the same time period was imposed around Santa Teresa, New Mexico, which is about 15 miles (24 kilometers) northwest of the El Paso airport. Southwest Airlines said in a statement that it has paused all operations to and from El Paso at the direction of the FAA. “We have notified affected customers and will share additional information as it becomes available,” Southwest Airlines said. “Nothing is more important to Southwest than the safety of its customers and employees.” —Darlene Superville, Associated Press View the full article

Officials say airspace around southern town of El Paso was temporarily closed due to aerial activity from Mexican cartels View the full article

Comprehending current business income tax brackets is vital for any business owner. Federal tax rates for C corporations are set at a flat 21%, whereas pass-through entities face individual tax rates that range from 10% to 37%. Furthermore, state tax rates can vary widely and may affect your overall tax liability, especially in high-tax areas like New York City. Knowing these details can help you make informed decisions about your business finances and tax strategies. Key Takeaways Business income tax brackets vary for pass-through entities, aligning with individual rates from 10% to 37%. C corporations face a flat federal tax rate of 21% established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. State corporate tax rates differ significantly; North Carolina has the lowest at 2.25%, while New Jersey’s can reach 11.5%. Pass-through entities may benefit from a Qualified Business Income deduction of up to 20%, impacting overall tax liability. NYC businesses must also consider local income tax, adding complexity to their overall tax planning. Overview of Business Income Tax Brackets When you run a business, grasping the tax brackets that apply to your income is crucial for effective financial planning. For pass-through entities like sole proprietorships and partnerships, your business income tax brackets align with individual income tax rates, ranging from 10% to 37%. This means your profits are taxed at the same rates as your personal income, which can greatly influence your overall tax liability. In New York City, for example, you’ll additionally need to take into account NYC income tax, which adds another layer to your financial responsibilities. Comprehending these brackets helps you strategize your earnings and expenses effectively, allowing you to minimize your tax burden during compliance with local and federal regulations. Federal Corporate Tax Rates In the United States, the federal corporate tax rate for C corporations stands at a flat 21%, established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. When filing taxes using Form 1120, these corporations must report their profits and calculate their tax obligations based on this fixed rate. Furthermore, starting from tax years after 2022, the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax imposes a minimum tax of 15% on certain large corporations, affecting how they manage their tax liabilities. C Corporation Tax Rate C corporations in the United States face a flat federal corporate tax rate of 21% on their taxable income, which was established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. This uniform rate applies regardless of income levels, meaning all profits are taxed at the same rate. To report income, deductions, and calculate tax liability, C corporations must file IRS Form 1120. It’s important to note that dividends paid to shareholders undergo double taxation, being taxed at the corporate level and again at the individual level. As you consider your tax obligations, using tools like an NYC city tax calculator can help estimate your overall tax burden, including how much is Medicare and Social Security tax, along with SS Medicare tax. Alternative Minimum Tax Impact As businesses navigate the intricacies of corporate taxation, comprehension of the impact of the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax (CAMT) is essential, particularly for those with average annual adjusted financial statement income exceeding $1 billion. The CAMT imposes a minimum tax rate of 15%, ensuring that large corporations contribute a baseline tax amount, regardless of whether they utilize deductions or credits to lower their liabilities. This means you’ll calculate your tax based on adjusted financial statement income, potentially leading to a higher effective tax rate. If you end up paying CAMT, you can carry forward any minimum tax credit generated to offset future liabilities, offering some relief. In the end, CAMT aims to improve tax fairness and curb avoidance strategies among profitable corporations. State Corporate Tax Rates State corporate tax rates vary widely across the United States, impacting businesses’ financial strategies and operational decisions. For instance, North Carolina boasts the lowest rate at 2.25%, with plans for further reduction, whereas New Jersey‘s rate climbs to 11.5% for income exceeding $10 million. Twelve states, including Arizona and Arkansas, maintain top corporate tax rates at or below 5%, indicating a trend in the direction of reduced tax burdens. Furthermore, states like South Dakota and Wyoming have no corporate income tax, creating a favorable environment for businesses. Recent changes include Louisiana lowering its corporate tax to 5.5% effective January 1, 2025, whereas Pennsylvania is phasing down its rate from 9.99% to 8.99%, improving competitiveness among states. Pass-Through Entities and Tax Implications In relation to taxation, pass-through entities like sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and S corporations play a unique role in the business environment. These entities don’t pay corporate income tax; instead, their income flows directly to the owners’ personal tax returns, taxed at individual rates ranging from 10% to 37%. Owners may benefit from the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, allowing them to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income, which can lower their effective tax rate considerably. Nonetheless, individual tax brackets for these entities, set by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, are set to expire after 2025. Furthermore, varying state tax rates can further complicate the overall tax burden for pass-through owners. Changes in State Tax Policies Changes in tax policies at the state level greatly impact businesses operating within those jurisdictions, influencing both corporate tax burdens and overall economic environments. For instance, North Carolina’s corporate income tax rate will drop to 2.25% in 2025, with plans for elimination by 2030. Conversely, New Jersey is imposing a 2.5% surtax on corporations earning over $10 million, increasing burdens on larger firms. Meanwhile, states like South Dakota and Wyoming offer a significant advantage by not levying corporate income taxes at all. Here’s a summary of notable changes: State New Tax Rate Effective Date North Carolina 2.25% 2025 Louisiana 5.5% January 1, 2025 New Jersey 2.5% surtax Currently in effect Nebraska 8.99% Starting 2023 South Dakota 0% N/A Strategies for Managing Business Taxes Managing business taxes effectively requires a thorough comprehension of your business structure, as this can greatly influence your overall tax liabilities. For instance, C corporations face a flat 21% federal tax rate, whereas pass-through entities pay taxes at individual rates ranging from 10% to 37%. To optimize your tax situation, leverage deductions like the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, allowing eligible pass-through entities to deduct up to 20% of qualified business income. Accurate recordkeeping is crucial; using automated expense tracking systems can identify deductible expenses and potentially save an average of 5% annually. Furthermore, consider your location, as state income tax rates vary widely, and engaging a tax professional can help you navigate complex deductions and credits, maximizing your savings. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Tax Filing Tax filing can be a challenging task for many business owners, and avoiding common pitfalls is key to guaranteeing compliance and maximizing savings. Here are four mistakes to watch out for: Misclassifying Employees: Don’t confuse employees with independent contractors, as this can lead to penalties and back taxes. Missing Deadlines: Timely submissions are essential; missing deadlines results in significant penalties and interest. Poor Record-Keeping: Failing to maintain detailed records can inflate taxable income by causing missed deductions on business expenses. Overlooking Deductions: Make sure you claim eligible deductions like the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, which can provide a substantial tax savings of up to 20% for qualifying pass-through entities. Taking these steps can help you navigate tax filing more effectively. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Federal Tax Brackets for Businesses? When considering federal tax brackets for businesses, C corporations face a flat tax rate of 21% on profits. Conversely, pass-through entities, like LLCs and S corporations, report income on personal tax returns, facing rates from 10% to 37%, depending on income levels. For 2024, the lowest bracket starts at 10% for income up to $11,000. Furthermore, eligible pass-through entities can utilize the Qualified Business Income deduction, reducing taxable income by up to 20%. What Are the LLC Tax Brackets? LLCs don’t have specific tax brackets like corporations. Instead, their income is passed through to you, the owner, and taxed at your individual income tax rates, which range from 10% to 37%. You might likewise face state-level taxes or franchise taxes, depending on where your LLC operates. Furthermore, you can benefit from the Qualified Business Income deduction, allowing you to deduct up to 20% of your LLC income from your taxable income. Is the 21% Corporate Tax Rate Permanent? The 21% corporate tax rate is currently considered stable and permanent, established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017. This rate marks a significant reduction from the previous high of 35%. As it’s set to remain in effect until 2025, any future changes would require bipartisan support in Congress. As of now, there’s no expiration date for this rate, making it a reliable aspect of the corporate tax structure. Who Is a 45% Tax Payer? A 45% taxpayer typically refers to individuals or corporations facing a significant total tax burden. For you, this can happen if your income exceeds the highest federal bracket, plus state and local taxes. For example, if you live in a high-tax state like California, your effective rate might exceed 45% when accounting for additional taxes like the Net Investment Income Tax. High-income earners and certain corporations often find themselves in this situation. Conclusion Grasping the current business income tax brackets is crucial for effective financial planning. By recognizing the differences between federal corporate rates and pass-through entity taxation, you can make informed decisions about your business structure. Moreover, staying updated on state tax policies, especially in areas with high local taxes, can further improve your tax strategy. Implementing sound tax management practices and avoiding common filing mistakes will help you minimize liabilities and boost your overall financial health. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Current Business Income Tax Brackets" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Comprehending current business income tax brackets is vital for any business owner. Federal tax rates for C corporations are set at a flat 21%, whereas pass-through entities face individual tax rates that range from 10% to 37%. Furthermore, state tax rates can vary widely and may affect your overall tax liability, especially in high-tax areas like New York City. Knowing these details can help you make informed decisions about your business finances and tax strategies. Key Takeaways Business income tax brackets vary for pass-through entities, aligning with individual rates from 10% to 37%. C corporations face a flat federal tax rate of 21% established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. State corporate tax rates differ significantly; North Carolina has the lowest at 2.25%, while New Jersey’s can reach 11.5%. Pass-through entities may benefit from a Qualified Business Income deduction of up to 20%, impacting overall tax liability. NYC businesses must also consider local income tax, adding complexity to their overall tax planning. Overview of Business Income Tax Brackets When you run a business, grasping the tax brackets that apply to your income is crucial for effective financial planning. For pass-through entities like sole proprietorships and partnerships, your business income tax brackets align with individual income tax rates, ranging from 10% to 37%. This means your profits are taxed at the same rates as your personal income, which can greatly influence your overall tax liability. In New York City, for example, you’ll additionally need to take into account NYC income tax, which adds another layer to your financial responsibilities. Comprehending these brackets helps you strategize your earnings and expenses effectively, allowing you to minimize your tax burden during compliance with local and federal regulations. Federal Corporate Tax Rates In the United States, the federal corporate tax rate for C corporations stands at a flat 21%, established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. When filing taxes using Form 1120, these corporations must report their profits and calculate their tax obligations based on this fixed rate. Furthermore, starting from tax years after 2022, the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax imposes a minimum tax of 15% on certain large corporations, affecting how they manage their tax liabilities. C Corporation Tax Rate C corporations in the United States face a flat federal corporate tax rate of 21% on their taxable income, which was established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. This uniform rate applies regardless of income levels, meaning all profits are taxed at the same rate. To report income, deductions, and calculate tax liability, C corporations must file IRS Form 1120. It’s important to note that dividends paid to shareholders undergo double taxation, being taxed at the corporate level and again at the individual level. As you consider your tax obligations, using tools like an NYC city tax calculator can help estimate your overall tax burden, including how much is Medicare and Social Security tax, along with SS Medicare tax. Alternative Minimum Tax Impact As businesses navigate the intricacies of corporate taxation, comprehension of the impact of the Corporate Alternative Minimum Tax (CAMT) is essential, particularly for those with average annual adjusted financial statement income exceeding $1 billion. The CAMT imposes a minimum tax rate of 15%, ensuring that large corporations contribute a baseline tax amount, regardless of whether they utilize deductions or credits to lower their liabilities. This means you’ll calculate your tax based on adjusted financial statement income, potentially leading to a higher effective tax rate. If you end up paying CAMT, you can carry forward any minimum tax credit generated to offset future liabilities, offering some relief. In the end, CAMT aims to improve tax fairness and curb avoidance strategies among profitable corporations. State Corporate Tax Rates State corporate tax rates vary widely across the United States, impacting businesses’ financial strategies and operational decisions. For instance, North Carolina boasts the lowest rate at 2.25%, with plans for further reduction, whereas New Jersey‘s rate climbs to 11.5% for income exceeding $10 million. Twelve states, including Arizona and Arkansas, maintain top corporate tax rates at or below 5%, indicating a trend in the direction of reduced tax burdens. Furthermore, states like South Dakota and Wyoming have no corporate income tax, creating a favorable environment for businesses. Recent changes include Louisiana lowering its corporate tax to 5.5% effective January 1, 2025, whereas Pennsylvania is phasing down its rate from 9.99% to 8.99%, improving competitiveness among states. Pass-Through Entities and Tax Implications In relation to taxation, pass-through entities like sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and S corporations play a unique role in the business environment. These entities don’t pay corporate income tax; instead, their income flows directly to the owners’ personal tax returns, taxed at individual rates ranging from 10% to 37%. Owners may benefit from the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, allowing them to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income, which can lower their effective tax rate considerably. Nonetheless, individual tax brackets for these entities, set by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, are set to expire after 2025. Furthermore, varying state tax rates can further complicate the overall tax burden for pass-through owners. Changes in State Tax Policies Changes in tax policies at the state level greatly impact businesses operating within those jurisdictions, influencing both corporate tax burdens and overall economic environments. For instance, North Carolina’s corporate income tax rate will drop to 2.25% in 2025, with plans for elimination by 2030. Conversely, New Jersey is imposing a 2.5% surtax on corporations earning over $10 million, increasing burdens on larger firms. Meanwhile, states like South Dakota and Wyoming offer a significant advantage by not levying corporate income taxes at all. Here’s a summary of notable changes: State New Tax Rate Effective Date North Carolina 2.25% 2025 Louisiana 5.5% January 1, 2025 New Jersey 2.5% surtax Currently in effect Nebraska 8.99% Starting 2023 South Dakota 0% N/A Strategies for Managing Business Taxes Managing business taxes effectively requires a thorough comprehension of your business structure, as this can greatly influence your overall tax liabilities. For instance, C corporations face a flat 21% federal tax rate, whereas pass-through entities pay taxes at individual rates ranging from 10% to 37%. To optimize your tax situation, leverage deductions like the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, allowing eligible pass-through entities to deduct up to 20% of qualified business income. Accurate recordkeeping is crucial; using automated expense tracking systems can identify deductible expenses and potentially save an average of 5% annually. Furthermore, consider your location, as state income tax rates vary widely, and engaging a tax professional can help you navigate complex deductions and credits, maximizing your savings. Common Mistakes to Avoid in Tax Filing Tax filing can be a challenging task for many business owners, and avoiding common pitfalls is key to guaranteeing compliance and maximizing savings. Here are four mistakes to watch out for: Misclassifying Employees: Don’t confuse employees with independent contractors, as this can lead to penalties and back taxes. Missing Deadlines: Timely submissions are essential; missing deadlines results in significant penalties and interest. Poor Record-Keeping: Failing to maintain detailed records can inflate taxable income by causing missed deductions on business expenses. Overlooking Deductions: Make sure you claim eligible deductions like the Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, which can provide a substantial tax savings of up to 20% for qualifying pass-through entities. Taking these steps can help you navigate tax filing more effectively. Frequently Asked Questions What Are the Federal Tax Brackets for Businesses? When considering federal tax brackets for businesses, C corporations face a flat tax rate of 21% on profits. Conversely, pass-through entities, like LLCs and S corporations, report income on personal tax returns, facing rates from 10% to 37%, depending on income levels. For 2024, the lowest bracket starts at 10% for income up to $11,000. Furthermore, eligible pass-through entities can utilize the Qualified Business Income deduction, reducing taxable income by up to 20%. What Are the LLC Tax Brackets? LLCs don’t have specific tax brackets like corporations. Instead, their income is passed through to you, the owner, and taxed at your individual income tax rates, which range from 10% to 37%. You might likewise face state-level taxes or franchise taxes, depending on where your LLC operates. Furthermore, you can benefit from the Qualified Business Income deduction, allowing you to deduct up to 20% of your LLC income from your taxable income. Is the 21% Corporate Tax Rate Permanent? The 21% corporate tax rate is currently considered stable and permanent, established by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017. This rate marks a significant reduction from the previous high of 35%. As it’s set to remain in effect until 2025, any future changes would require bipartisan support in Congress. As of now, there’s no expiration date for this rate, making it a reliable aspect of the corporate tax structure. Who Is a 45% Tax Payer? A 45% taxpayer typically refers to individuals or corporations facing a significant total tax burden. For you, this can happen if your income exceeds the highest federal bracket, plus state and local taxes. For example, if you live in a high-tax state like California, your effective rate might exceed 45% when accounting for additional taxes like the Net Investment Income Tax. High-income earners and certain corporations often find themselves in this situation. Conclusion Grasping the current business income tax brackets is crucial for effective financial planning. By recognizing the differences between federal corporate rates and pass-through entity taxation, you can make informed decisions about your business structure. Moreover, staying updated on state tax policies, especially in areas with high local taxes, can further improve your tax strategy. Implementing sound tax management practices and avoiding common filing mistakes will help you minimize liabilities and boost your overall financial health. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Current Business Income Tax Brackets" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Wireless open-ear earbuds are a popular choice for runners, commuters, dog owners, and anyone else who wants premium audio quality while still allowing enough ambient noise through to stay safe and aware of their surroundings. The Shokz OpenFit Air open-ear earbuds are one of the best budget open earbuds on the market; they check all those boxes. They’re a reliable, lightweight option for everyday music and podcast listening, and right now, they’re 33% off at an all-time low price of $79.95 (originally $119.95). Shokz OpenFit Air Open-Ear Earbuds $79.85 at Amazon $119.95 Save $40.10 Get Deal Get Deal $79.85 at Amazon $119.95 Save $40.10 These earbuds sit over your ear canals, stay in place during high-impact workouts, and are comfortable enough for all-day wear. For those who have been eyeing the Shokz OpenFit earbuds but still can’t justify spending around $200, the OpenFit Air model is a more budget-friendly alternative. They still offer the same comfort, stable ear design, and safety benefits as pricier open-earbuds; however, the lower price comes with slightly weaker bass and a shorter battery life (six hours vs. seven—still long enough for most marathon training sessions). With the charging case, total battery life reaches up to 28 hours. If you don’t mind those trade-offs, an unexpected perk is that compared to the pricier version, their lightweight, stripped-down design makes them even more comfortable and secure for workouts. They also have an IP54 rating, making them sweat and water-resistant, though they can’t be submerged like the Shokz OpenSwim Pro headphones. Four built-in microphones provide clear audio on calls, but because there’s no noise cancellation, background noise can still come through. While they don’t offer the most immersive sound and may be underwhelming for listeners of bass-heavy music, you can customize the listening experience and different EQ modes via the Shokz app, which also enables multipoint pairing. Some reviews also note that the touch controls can be inconsistent and prone to accidental activation. If you’re looking for an alternative to in-ear buds and your priority is excellent comfort for extended wear, the Shokz OpenFit Air open-ear earbuds are a great value buy at around $80—just expect slightly less battery life and bass compared to pricier models. Our Best Editor-Vetted Presidents' Day Deals Right Now Apple AirPods 4 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $139.99 (List Price $179.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $329.00 (List Price $429.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones — $229.00 (List Price $349.00) Dell 16 DC16255 (AMD Ryzen 7 250, 512GB SSD, 16GB RAM, 2K Display) — $649.99 (List Price $869.99) HP Omen 35L (Intel Core Ultra 9 285K, RTX 5080, 2TB SSD, 64GB RAM) — (List Price $3,099.99 With Code "PRESDAYPC100") HP OmniBook X Flip Ngai 16-Inch (AMD Ryzen AI 7 350, Radeon 860M, 512GB SSD, 16GB RAM, 2K Display) — (List Price $649.99 With Code "PRESDAYPC50") Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

In an era where efficiency and purpose intertwine, the mission-driven coffee brand happy® is leveraging advanced technology to fuel its growth and enhance its operations. The company, co-founded by Academy Award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. and entrepreneur Craig Dubitsky, has adopted Oracle NetSuite’s cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to streamline its processes and scale distribution effectively. happy®, which aims to elevate the everyday experience through its coffee products, is making significant strides in the consumer packaged goods sector. With a presence in over 70,000 retail outlets, including major chains like Walmart and Target, the brand is not only focused on delivering delicious coffee but also on promoting mental health awareness through its partnership with the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI). Each purchase connects consumers with vital resources, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to social responsibility. “Elevating the everyday requires a system that can keep up,” stated Craig Dubitsky, happy’s co-founder and CEO. “Distribution and logistics in consumer packaged goods are complex, but NetSuite helps us keep things simple by automating financial processes, boosting team productivity, and supporting our operations across our distribution points.” The integration of NetSuite’s ERP system comes at a pivotal time for happy®. The company has experienced rapid growth since its inception in 2024 and is continually launching new product lines. NetSuite’s capabilities provide the necessary infrastructure to manage this complexity efficiently. By automating key business processes, happy® has improved its financial reporting speed and accuracy, essential for any growing business. Notably, NetSuite’s financial management tools have enabled happy® to streamline its reporting and financial close processes. The system also enhances supply chain management, making manufacturing, retail, and distribution more manageable as the company expands its product categories. The incorporation of AI through NetSuite’s AI Connector Service allows happy® to connect with third-party AI solutions while maintaining security and control over its data. Small business owners can take away several key benefits from happy®’s experience with NetSuite. First, automating financial and operational processes can free up valuable time for teams to focus on core business functions, such as product development and customer engagement. For businesses facing complex supply chains or looking to expand into new markets, a robust ERP system like NetSuite can streamline operations and enhance visibility across all business functions. As happy® continues to grow, it remains focused on its mission to spread joy through coffee while supporting mental health initiatives. The synergy between its business goals and technological capabilities illustrates how a well-integrated ERP system can empower companies to scale responsibly and effectively. “Consumer brands are adding new distribution channels, and business complexity multiplies,” said Evan Goldberg, founder and executive vice president of Oracle NetSuite. “With NetSuite, happy has been able to efficiently manage growth by consolidating on a single system and automating critical workflows. This allows its employees to be more productive and remain focused on its mission to deliver joy in every cup.” The success story of happy® serves as an inspiring example for small business owners navigating the complexities of growth in today’s market. By embracing technology and prioritizing operational efficiency, businesses can not only enhance their productivity but also align their mission with broader social goals, creating a positive impact in their communities. This article, "happy® Boosts Growth and Innovation with Oracle NetSuite’s AI Solutions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In an era where efficiency and purpose intertwine, the mission-driven coffee brand happy® is leveraging advanced technology to fuel its growth and enhance its operations. The company, co-founded by Academy Award-winning actor Robert Downey Jr. and entrepreneur Craig Dubitsky, has adopted Oracle NetSuite’s cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) system to streamline its processes and scale distribution effectively. happy®, which aims to elevate the everyday experience through its coffee products, is making significant strides in the consumer packaged goods sector. With a presence in over 70,000 retail outlets, including major chains like Walmart and Target, the brand is not only focused on delivering delicious coffee but also on promoting mental health awareness through its partnership with the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI). Each purchase connects consumers with vital resources, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to social responsibility. “Elevating the everyday requires a system that can keep up,” stated Craig Dubitsky, happy’s co-founder and CEO. “Distribution and logistics in consumer packaged goods are complex, but NetSuite helps us keep things simple by automating financial processes, boosting team productivity, and supporting our operations across our distribution points.” The integration of NetSuite’s ERP system comes at a pivotal time for happy®. The company has experienced rapid growth since its inception in 2024 and is continually launching new product lines. NetSuite’s capabilities provide the necessary infrastructure to manage this complexity efficiently. By automating key business processes, happy® has improved its financial reporting speed and accuracy, essential for any growing business. Notably, NetSuite’s financial management tools have enabled happy® to streamline its reporting and financial close processes. The system also enhances supply chain management, making manufacturing, retail, and distribution more manageable as the company expands its product categories. The incorporation of AI through NetSuite’s AI Connector Service allows happy® to connect with third-party AI solutions while maintaining security and control over its data. Small business owners can take away several key benefits from happy®’s experience with NetSuite. First, automating financial and operational processes can free up valuable time for teams to focus on core business functions, such as product development and customer engagement. For businesses facing complex supply chains or looking to expand into new markets, a robust ERP system like NetSuite can streamline operations and enhance visibility across all business functions. As happy® continues to grow, it remains focused on its mission to spread joy through coffee while supporting mental health initiatives. The synergy between its business goals and technological capabilities illustrates how a well-integrated ERP system can empower companies to scale responsibly and effectively. “Consumer brands are adding new distribution channels, and business complexity multiplies,” said Evan Goldberg, founder and executive vice president of Oracle NetSuite. “With NetSuite, happy has been able to efficiently manage growth by consolidating on a single system and automating critical workflows. This allows its employees to be more productive and remain focused on its mission to deliver joy in every cup.” The success story of happy® serves as an inspiring example for small business owners navigating the complexities of growth in today’s market. By embracing technology and prioritizing operational efficiency, businesses can not only enhance their productivity but also align their mission with broader social goals, creating a positive impact in their communities. This article, "happy® Boosts Growth and Innovation with Oracle NetSuite’s AI Solutions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Kraft Heinz said Wednesday it’s pausing its plans to split into two companies. Steve Cahillane, a former Kellogg Co. chief who became CEO of Kraft Heinz on Jan. 1, said he wants to ensure that all of the company’s resources are focused on profitable growth. “I have seen that the opportunity is larger than expected and that many of our challenges are fixable and within our control,” Cahillane said in a statement. The company’s shares dropped 5.2% in early trading Wednesday as Kraft Heinz reported lower quarterly and annual results. Kraft Heinz announced in September it was splitting into two companies a decade after a merger of the brands created one of the biggest food manufacturers on the planet. One of the companies would include stronger-selling brands such as Heinz, Philadelphia cream cheese and Kraft Mac & Cheese. The other would include slower-selling brands like Maxwell House, Oscar Mayer, Kraft Singles and Lunchables. At the time, Kraft Heinz said it expected the split to be finalized in the second half of this year. On Wednesday, the company said it will pivot from the split and invest $600 million in marketing, sales and product development. In its fourth-quarter earnings release Wednesday, CEO Steve Cahillane said Kraft Heinz’s balance sheet and free cash flow potential were strong. “We are confident in the opportunity ahead and believe this investment will accelerate our return to profitable growth,” Callihane said. —Dee-Ann Durbin, AP Business Writer View the full article

Small business owners seeking to streamline their operations and enhance efficiency may find a promising new tool in the recently launched NetSuite Integration Platform. Announced during SuiteConnect New York on February 11, 2026, this AI-powered, low-code solution is designed to simplify the integration of various enterprise applications, enabling businesses to automate complex workflows seamlessly. Evan Goldberg, founder and executive vice president of Oracle NetSuite, emphasized the platform’s potential in transforming how organizations handle data integration. “By using AI to bring together mission-critical business data, we are helping our customers reduce technical complexity, move faster, and gain more value from the comprehensive AI capabilities embedded in NetSuite,” he stated. This focus on making integration more accessible could be a game-changer for small businesses that often face resource limitations and technical challenges. The NetSuite Integration Platform offers several key benefits tailored to the needs of small business owners: – Business-led Automation: The platform allows business analysts and process owners to create or modify integrations using simple, plain language. This means small businesses can engage their teams in automation efforts without needing extensive technical expertise. The AI-powered mapping and documentation features enable quicker deployment and troubleshooting, which can enhance overall data consistency. – Accelerated Project Delivery: For finance, operations, and IT leaders, the platform facilitates rapid connections between NetSuite and other critical systems. The availability of prebuilt adapters and natural language prompts means small businesses can implement workflows that synchronize revenue, inventory, and customer data in real-time without depending heavily on specialist developers. – Resilient Workflows: The platform supports IT teams by providing centralized automation governance, role-based access, and audit trails. This functionality helps small businesses ensure compliance and minimize integration sprawl, which can often lead to inefficiencies and errors. – Unified API Management: With a single command center for managing APIs, developers and administrators can secure and monitor integrations effectively. This feature is particularly advantageous for small businesses looking to maintain high-quality integrations while adapting to evolving operational needs. – Intelligent Document Processing: The platform also empowers businesses to convert unstructured data into actionable workflows. For example, AI document recognition can facilitate automated order data intake or procurement approvals, streamlining operations and reducing manual errors. The NetSuite Integration Platform is built on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), which underpins its capabilities with a unified data foundation. This infrastructure not only supports streamlined integration but also enhances execution speed, which is critical for small businesses aiming to remain agile in a competitive market. Currently, the platform is available to customers in North America, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Ireland, making it accessible to a wide range of small enterprises looking for innovative solutions to their integration challenges. As small business owners navigate the complexities of modern enterprise applications, the NetSuite Integration Platform presents an opportunity to enhance operational efficiency and drive growth. By embracing this low-code, AI-powered solution, businesses can not only overcome integration hurdles but also position themselves more competitively in the marketplace. This article, "NetSuite Launches AI-Driven Integration Platform to Simplify Workflows" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Small business owners seeking to streamline their operations and enhance efficiency may find a promising new tool in the recently launched NetSuite Integration Platform. Announced during SuiteConnect New York on February 11, 2026, this AI-powered, low-code solution is designed to simplify the integration of various enterprise applications, enabling businesses to automate complex workflows seamlessly. Evan Goldberg, founder and executive vice president of Oracle NetSuite, emphasized the platform’s potential in transforming how organizations handle data integration. “By using AI to bring together mission-critical business data, we are helping our customers reduce technical complexity, move faster, and gain more value from the comprehensive AI capabilities embedded in NetSuite,” he stated. This focus on making integration more accessible could be a game-changer for small businesses that often face resource limitations and technical challenges. The NetSuite Integration Platform offers several key benefits tailored to the needs of small business owners: – Business-led Automation: The platform allows business analysts and process owners to create or modify integrations using simple, plain language. This means small businesses can engage their teams in automation efforts without needing extensive technical expertise. The AI-powered mapping and documentation features enable quicker deployment and troubleshooting, which can enhance overall data consistency. – Accelerated Project Delivery: For finance, operations, and IT leaders, the platform facilitates rapid connections between NetSuite and other critical systems. The availability of prebuilt adapters and natural language prompts means small businesses can implement workflows that synchronize revenue, inventory, and customer data in real-time without depending heavily on specialist developers. – Resilient Workflows: The platform supports IT teams by providing centralized automation governance, role-based access, and audit trails. This functionality helps small businesses ensure compliance and minimize integration sprawl, which can often lead to inefficiencies and errors. – Unified API Management: With a single command center for managing APIs, developers and administrators can secure and monitor integrations effectively. This feature is particularly advantageous for small businesses looking to maintain high-quality integrations while adapting to evolving operational needs. – Intelligent Document Processing: The platform also empowers businesses to convert unstructured data into actionable workflows. For example, AI document recognition can facilitate automated order data intake or procurement approvals, streamlining operations and reducing manual errors. The NetSuite Integration Platform is built on Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), which underpins its capabilities with a unified data foundation. This infrastructure not only supports streamlined integration but also enhances execution speed, which is critical for small businesses aiming to remain agile in a competitive market. Currently, the platform is available to customers in North America, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Ireland, making it accessible to a wide range of small enterprises looking for innovative solutions to their integration challenges. As small business owners navigate the complexities of modern enterprise applications, the NetSuite Integration Platform presents an opportunity to enhance operational efficiency and drive growth. By embracing this low-code, AI-powered solution, businesses can not only overcome integration hurdles but also position themselves more competitively in the marketplace. This article, "NetSuite Launches AI-Driven Integration Platform to Simplify Workflows" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

At ISE 2026 in Barcelona, HP unveiled next-generation audio and video innovations designed to enhance hybrid work environments, a move that resonates with small business owners striving to adapt to more flexible work models. This new lineup includes collaborative solutions aimed at making remote and in-office meetings more engaging and productive, establishing a clear path forward for the future of work. HP showcased products such as the Poly Mission 400 series, which features enhanced audio and video capabilities aimed at optimizing virtual communication. With many businesses continuing to navigate hybrid work models, the need for effective collaboration tools has never been greater. HP’s focus is on creating technology that not only boosts productivity but also simplifies the user experience. For small business owners, integrating advanced collaboration tools can lead to significant benefits. Not only can these improvements enhance team communication and morale, but they can also minimize meeting disruptions caused by technical issues. HP’s Poly Mission 400 series, for instance, promises high-definition video and crystal-clear audio that creates a more immersive meeting atmosphere. This can reduce misunderstandings that often arise in virtual settings, driving better outcomes in decision-making and project management. “The hybrid work model is more than just a trend; it’s becoming a cornerstone of how we operate,” said an HP representative at the event. This statement underscores the importance of adapting to evolving work preferences, which small businesses are recognizing as critical for retaining talent and fostering a collaborative corporate culture. Small businesses looking to implement these technologies may find practical applications in their daily operations. For example, the tools can facilitate seamless onboarding processes for remote employees, allowing them to feel more connected to their team from the start. Additionally, companies can host engaging webinars or virtual training sessions using these advanced audio/visual solutions, maximizing employee skill-building efforts. However, while there are many benefits to adopting these innovations, some challenges may arise for small business owners. The costs associated with acquiring high-tech equipment can be daunting, particularly for companies with tight budgets. Further, there may be a learning curve associated with using advanced collaboration tools effectively, which could temporarily disrupt workflows. Additionally, ensuring a reliable internet connection becomes paramount when implementing heavy audio and video functionalities. Businesses will need to assess their current infrastructure to confirm that it can handle increased data demands without leading to interruptions in service. Despite these hurdles, the potential for streamlined operations, enhanced engagement, and improved employee satisfaction can make the investment in these tools worthwhile. Small business owners should weigh their options carefully, considering the balance of upfront costs against long-term benefits. In a marketplace that increasingly prioritizes flexibility and digital communication, HP’s renewed commitment to enhancing hybrid work environments presents a timely opportunity for businesses of all sizes. As small businesses continue to evolve in this new landscape, embracing innovative solutions will not only enhance operational efficiency but also position them favorably in a competitive landscape. For more information on HP’s latest innovations in hybrid work, check out the original press release at HP Newsroom. Image via Google Gemini This article, "HP Unveils Advanced Audio-Video Solutions to Enhance Hybrid Work at ISE 2026" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

At ISE 2026 in Barcelona, HP unveiled next-generation audio and video innovations designed to enhance hybrid work environments, a move that resonates with small business owners striving to adapt to more flexible work models. This new lineup includes collaborative solutions aimed at making remote and in-office meetings more engaging and productive, establishing a clear path forward for the future of work. HP showcased products such as the Poly Mission 400 series, which features enhanced audio and video capabilities aimed at optimizing virtual communication. With many businesses continuing to navigate hybrid work models, the need for effective collaboration tools has never been greater. HP’s focus is on creating technology that not only boosts productivity but also simplifies the user experience. For small business owners, integrating advanced collaboration tools can lead to significant benefits. Not only can these improvements enhance team communication and morale, but they can also minimize meeting disruptions caused by technical issues. HP’s Poly Mission 400 series, for instance, promises high-definition video and crystal-clear audio that creates a more immersive meeting atmosphere. This can reduce misunderstandings that often arise in virtual settings, driving better outcomes in decision-making and project management. “The hybrid work model is more than just a trend; it’s becoming a cornerstone of how we operate,” said an HP representative at the event. This statement underscores the importance of adapting to evolving work preferences, which small businesses are recognizing as critical for retaining talent and fostering a collaborative corporate culture. Small businesses looking to implement these technologies may find practical applications in their daily operations. For example, the tools can facilitate seamless onboarding processes for remote employees, allowing them to feel more connected to their team from the start. Additionally, companies can host engaging webinars or virtual training sessions using these advanced audio/visual solutions, maximizing employee skill-building efforts. However, while there are many benefits to adopting these innovations, some challenges may arise for small business owners. The costs associated with acquiring high-tech equipment can be daunting, particularly for companies with tight budgets. Further, there may be a learning curve associated with using advanced collaboration tools effectively, which could temporarily disrupt workflows. Additionally, ensuring a reliable internet connection becomes paramount when implementing heavy audio and video functionalities. Businesses will need to assess their current infrastructure to confirm that it can handle increased data demands without leading to interruptions in service. Despite these hurdles, the potential for streamlined operations, enhanced engagement, and improved employee satisfaction can make the investment in these tools worthwhile. Small business owners should weigh their options carefully, considering the balance of upfront costs against long-term benefits. In a marketplace that increasingly prioritizes flexibility and digital communication, HP’s renewed commitment to enhancing hybrid work environments presents a timely opportunity for businesses of all sizes. As small businesses continue to evolve in this new landscape, embracing innovative solutions will not only enhance operational efficiency but also position them favorably in a competitive landscape. For more information on HP’s latest innovations in hybrid work, check out the original press release at HP Newsroom. Image via Google Gemini This article, "HP Unveils Advanced Audio-Video Solutions to Enhance Hybrid Work at ISE 2026" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Move comes during period of sustained volatility in digital asset marketsView the full article

U.S. employers added a surprisingly strong 130,000 jobs last month, but government revisions cut 2024-2025 U.S. payrolls by hundreds of thousands. The unemployment rate fell to 4.3%, the Labor Department said Wednesday. The report included major revisions that reduced the number of jobs created last year to just 181,000, weakest since the pandemic year of 2020, and less than half the previously reported 584,000. The job market has been sluggish for months even though the economy is registering solid growth. But the January numbers came in stronger than the 75,000 economists had expected. Healthcare accounted for nearly 82,000, or more than 60%, of last month’s new jobs. Factories added 5,000, snapping a streak of 13 straight months of job losses. The federal government shed 34,000 jobs. Average hourly wages rose a solid 0.4% from December to January. The unemployment rate fell from 4.4% in December as the number of employed Americans rose and the number of unemployed fell. Weak hiring over the past year reflects the lingering impact of high interest rates, billionaire Elon Musk’s purge last year of the federal workforce and uncertainty arising from President Donald The President’s erratic trade policies, which have left businesses unsure about hiring. Dreary numbers have been coming in ahead of Wednesday’s report. Employers posted just 6.5 million job openings in December, fewest in more than five years. Payroll processor ADP reported last week that private employers added 22,000 jobs in January, far fewer than economists had forecast. And the outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas reported that companies slashed more than 108,000 jobs last month, the most since October and the worst January for job cuts since 2009. Several well-known companies announced layoffs last month. UPS is cutting 30,000 jobs. Chemicals giant Dow, shifting to more automation and artificial intelligence, is cutting 4,500 jobs. And Amazon is slashing 16,000 corporate jobs, its second round of mass layoffs in three months. The sluggish job market doesn’t match the economy’s performance. From July to September, America’s gross domestic product – its output of goods and services – galloped ahead at a 4.4% annual pace, fastest in two years. Consumer spending was strong, and growth got a boost from rising exports and tumbling imports. And that came on top of solid 3.8% growth from April through June. Economists are puzzling out whether job creation will eventually accelerate to catch up to strong growth, perhaps as President Donald The President’s tax cuts translate into big tax refunds that consumers start spending this year. But there are other possibilities. GDP growth could slow and fall into line with a weak labor market or advances in AI and automation could mean that the economy can roar ahead without creating many jobs. Wednesday’s report included the government’s annual benchmark revisions, meant to take into account the more-accurate jobs numbers that employers report to state unemployment agencies. They cut 898,000 jobs from payrolls in the year ending March 2025. Despite recent high-profile layoffs, the unemployment rate has looked better than the hiring numbers. That is partly because President Donald The President’s immigration crackdown has reduced the number of foreign-born people competing for work. As a result, the number of new jobs that the economy needs to create to keep the unemployment rate from rising — the “break-even” point — has tumbled. In 2023, when immigrants were pouring into the United States, it reached a high of 250,000, according to economist Anton Cheremukhin of the Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas. By mid-2025, Cheremukhin found, it was down to 30,000. Researchers at the Brookings Institution believe it could now be as low as 20,000 and headed lower. The combination of weak hiring but low unemployment means that most American workers are enjoying job security. But those who are looking for jobs – especially young people who can be competing at the entry level with AI and automation – often struggle to land one. —Paul Wiseman, AP Economics Writer View the full article

The federal government should step in to prevent an emerging patchwork of state regulations from stifling the benefits of applying the tools of generative artificial intelligence to the mortgage market. View the full article

The dark web is a virtual neighborhood beyond the borders of the normal, everyday internet (which includes the website you're looking at right now). It's somewhere Google and Bing don't index, and you need special tools to get to it. It's a place where you'll find data leaks and illegal trades, but also legitimate, legal online activities users want to carry out without attracting the attention of law enforcement agencies or governments. It's a part of the internet that's less regulated and more shadowy, for better and for worse. Piqued your interest? I'm going to explain how to get on the dark web and what you can find there—though Lifehacker doesn't endorse doing anything that breaks the law, so I'm not going to tell you how to do something you shouldn't. The deep web versus the dark web: What’s the difference? Much of the web isn't freely accessible. Credit: Lifehacker You'll often see these terms used in your travels across the internet, and there's some confusion about what they mean. I'll start with the deep web: That's everything online that isn't indexed by regular search engines, which includes pages locked behind paywalls, private databases, email archives, company intranets, and so on. Think about all the parts of the web you can't see without logging in, from academic journals to your Netflix account page: That's the deep web. It accounts for around 90 percent of websites, by some estimates, so we're talking about a substantial chunk of everything that's online. The dark web, which is what I'm discussing here, is a small subset of the deep web, and refers to websites that are specifically trying to stay out of sight. These pages come with extra protections for user anonymity and data security, and you need special software to access them. You can't get at them through your normal web browser, like you can with much of the rest of the deep web. Dark web tools and servicesThe dark web comes with its own set of tools and services, including web browsers and search engines (which I'll get on to in a moment). Part of what makes the dark web the dark web is that you can't access it through your normal web browser, nor can you look something up on it via a Google search. Having a place on the internet that's private and anonymous will naturally encourage certain kinds of illicit activities: Hacking tools, drugs, fake passports, porn, firearms, and more are all traded on the dark web. It's a bit like wandering into the sketchiest part of a city, with all the associated goings-on. However, there are plenty of legal and legitimate online activities that require privacy and anonymity. The dark web is used by journalists, whistleblowers, and political activists who need the protections that it offers. Anything you need to do that has to be off the books to some extent, for noble or ignoble reasons, can be done on the dark web. To browse the dark web, you need a dark web browser Tor is your way into the dark web. Credit: Lifehacker To get on the dark web, you need a browser built for the job, and the best in the business is Tor. Tor is a browser engineered for extra security and privacy, and can be used to navigate the normal, surface web as well as the dark web. It blocks trackers, prevents user fingerprinting, encrypts data, and reroutes your browsing so no one can see where in the world you are. Tor is like the public-facing door to the dark web, and there are also mobile apps for Android and iOS. While there are other browsers you can use to get on the dark web, Tor is usually recommended as the best for most people in terms of the features it offers and the ease with which anyone can make use of it. Key to the way Tor works is what's known as onion routing technology. It gets its name from the way it puts several layers of obfuscation between you and the web, like the layers of an onion: Your traffic is bounced between multiple nodes, which means it's not as quick as regular browsing, but also that it's very difficult for anyone else to tell who you are or where you are. Configuring dark web access through Tor. Credit: Lifehacker When you open up the browser for the first time on the desktop, you'll see the option to Configure Connection or just Connect—choose the former, and you get more control over the nodes (or "bridges") used to get online. For most people, it's fine to let Tor handle this automatically (and you can set this to be the default in your browser too, if you like). Once you are online, everything works in a similar way to a regular browser. You can access all of the normal web through Tor, and take advantage of the extra privacy its rerouting provides, as well as diving into the dark web. There are a few neat extra touches though, like the New identity button (the broomstick icon, top right) that clears everything from your current session and restarts Tor. The mobile apps are straightforward to use as well. Tor for Android is the official app for Google's mobile platform, and while there's no exact equivalent on iOS, the open-source Onion Browser is a recommended alternative: The buttons for "onionizing" sites are on the top left (Android) and top right (iOS) corners. In both cases you can choose to install the Orbot VPN service, also part of the Tor project, to further secure your connection to the web. The Onion Browser on iOS, with rerouting details. Credit: Lifehacker Even with Tor and onion routing in place, though, you're not suddenly completely invisible and free to do whatever you want, without repercussions. Certain details of your traffic can be intercepted at the entry and exit points of the node, by the people running those nodes, if they know what they're doing and what they're looking for. You're also open to threats like end-to-end correlation attacks, so while Tor is a lot more secure and private, it's by no means completely safe. Bear in mind, too, that your internet provider will be able to see you connecting to Tor nodes, even if it doesn't know exactly what you're doing. Many people install a VPN as well, but then you're putting your trust in an additional third party to not track your activities or report them to anyone else. Cybersecurity has to also cover everything physically on your computer too—which law enforcement or government authorities might have the right to seize if they come calling. If you want to be untraceable and undetectable, connecting to the dark web via the Tor browser is a major step towards that, but not the only step you'll need. A dark web search engineOpen up Tor, and you won't suddenly see the dark web staring back at you. Not only do you need a dark web browser, you need a dark web search engine too. This search engine will get you to the sites you need, though you can also go directly to dark web addresses if you know what they are, as with standard URLs. DuckDuckGo is the default search engine inside the Tor browser, and once you turn on the Onionize toggle switch in the search box, you're able to use it to find dark web links. These typically come with ".onion" after them, rather than something like ".com" as on the standard web. On the dark web, you have to do become more of a search engine yourself: You'll often get web links from other users or forums online, and you'll need to keep these bookmarked to get back to them later. Other dark web search engines worth investigating are Ahmia, Torch, NotEvil, and the Onion URL Directory—just type out some keywords for what you're looking for. Some of these sites can be found through regular web browsers, but you'll then need to switch over to Tor once you've got the onion links you want to follow. Dark web websites The BBC has a dark web site. Credit: Lifehacker Individual sites on the dark web look much like they do on the regular web, though a lot of them are a bit more rough around the edges. (Presentation and polish isn't quite so important on this part of the internet.) Click on any website link, and it'll appear on screen, with its address at the top. Some of the websites to look out for on the dark web include mirrors of both the BBC and the Mediapart journalism platforms, built to help inform people who are living in countries where the internet is heavily censored. If you're after secure email, look for the Proton Mail service. If you visit a regular website that also has a dark web (.onion) equivalent, you should see see a message to this effect in the top right corner of Tor: Click on the Visit the .onion button to view it. Given the associations that the dark web has and some of the illegal activities that take place on it, you won't find a huge number of well-known websites on there—a lot of the dark web is made up of sites, wikis, and forums maintained by volunteers. However, there's still plenty worth exploring. What's for sale on the dark webI've already touched on some of the stuff that you'll find for sale on the dark web: It's a long way from eBay, let me put it like that. Anything you can think of that you shouldn't be downloading or buying, you can usually find it somewhere on the dark web. For obvious reasons—I don't want to get you or me into trouble, after all—I'm not going to get too specific when it comes to what you can find for sale on the dark web. A lot of transactions are handled via cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, which is relatively (but not completely) private and anonymous. Another private cryptocurrency you'll find being used is Monero, which prides itself on being untraceable. That's not to say you should assume any transactions you make on the dark web won't ever be linked back to you—law enforcement has gotten pretty good at tracking down people who think they've been acting in the shadows. Even if you're using a private, anonymized crypto wallet, there are other ways your identity can be revealed—even if it's something as simple as letting a personal detail slip in an instant message. Taken as a whole, there aren't many good reasons to move your legitimate shopping activities to the dark web. Because of the way it works, and the kinds of items and goods that are typically on sale, it attracts a lot of scammers and hackers, and there are very few protections for you if you find yourself duped. Is the dark web illegal? Many dark web sites come and go. Credit: Lifehacker The dark web itself isn't illegal, and you're not going to get into any trouble just by visiting it—but it's a place where a lot of illegal activities are carried out, because it's much harder for law enforcement agencies to see what's going on there. You might often see news stories about criminal activity involving the dark web, and because of what's happening in some corners of the dark web, it tends to put off law-abiding companies and users alike. Sections of the dark web are often closed down, too, as part of police operations. With all of that in mind, you need to tread carefully when browsing, in terms of the sites you visit and the other users you interact with. Bear in mind too that laws about freedom of speech and censorship vary from country to country, which is part of the reason the dark web exists in the first place. Staying on top of the hacker undergroundHackers spend a lot of time on the dark web, and it's not too difficult to get access to hacking tools and data leaks in this part of the internet. However, it's much harder to get at the people who are doing the uploading and downloading. If you make use of a password manager, then it may come with a feature that monitors the dark web for mentions of your email address and password, or any other personal details. If dark web monitoring isn't offered by the security packages you already have, there are other ways to do it, and there are steps you can take if your information does get leaked. As I've previously said, it's a good idea to keep your interactions with the dark web to a minimum, unless you can absolutely trust the people you're dealing with. You'll often see a sign in stores that says "look, don't touch," and it's not a bad adage to bear in mind as you navigate around the dark web. View the full article

Oracle NetSuite has unveiled a series of AI-driven innovations aimed at enhancing efficiency and accelerating growth for businesses. This announcement was made at SuiteConnect New York, where Oracle NetSuite, recognized as the top AI Cloud ERP, highlighted features designed to streamline financial operations, strengthen internal controls, and boost profit margins. Evan Goldberg, founder and executive vice president of Oracle NetSuite, emphasized the importance of these innovations, stating, “With a single unified suite and the ability to leverage powerful AI models, NetSuite turns disconnected tasks into intelligent end-to-end workflows.” This integration of AI across various business processes allows organizations to automate routine tasks, gain deeper insights, and respond more agilely to market demands. The new features include the Intelligent Close Manager, which automates the financial close process through a centralized command center. This tool shortens close cycles, enhances accountability, and improves data integrity by utilizing advanced analytics that monitor close activities and provide detailed insights into financial performance. For small business owners, this means less time spent on closing books each month and more focus on strategic decision-making. Another significant enhancement is the AI-powered bank transaction matching feature. By increasing the speed and accuracy of bank reconciliations, this innovation allows businesses to reduce manual reviews and close accounts more efficiently. With generative AI handling the classification of bank activities, small businesses can expect quicker and more reliable reconciliations, ultimately improving cash flow and financial oversight. AI-generated report narratives further empower organizations by transforming complex data into actionable insights. This feature enables users to generate comprehensive narratives within financial and operational reports with a single click, making it easier for small business owners to grasp critical information quickly and share it with stakeholders. Additionally, AI-powered customer summaries streamline issue resolution and improve engagement by providing tailored summaries of cases and transactions. This capability enhances customer service efficiency, allowing small businesses to resolve issues faster and foster stronger customer relationships. For those navigating pricing complexities, the AI-assisted advanced pricing tool centralizes and governs pricing strategies. This feature not only protects profit margins but also enables businesses to respond swiftly to market fluctuations. The ability to configure prices based on various factors, such as customer segments and item assortments, offers small business owners a competitive edge in pricing strategies. NetSuite also introduced the SuiteCloud Developer Assistant, which boosts productivity for developers and administrators by automating repetitive tasks and accelerating coding processes. This can significantly reduce the time needed for custom solutions, allowing small businesses to adapt their ERP systems to their specific needs more efficiently. The NetSuite EPM Planning Agent and EPM Reconciliation Agent are designed to enhance planning and reconciliation processes. The former allows for real-time financial planning and analysis, enabling businesses to conduct “what-if” scenarios that support informed decision-making. The latter automates transaction clearing using AI, which reduces manual effort and allows teams to focus on high-risk exceptions, enhancing overall financial accuracy. NetSuite’s commitment to supporting small businesses extends beyond these AI innovations. Their advanced subscription metrics provide early indicators of growth momentum and churn risk, while multi-subsidiary vendor payments enhance spend management and fraud protection. The flexible commitment allocation feature simplifies complex pricing structures, and improved consignment inventory management optimizes vendor-owned stock tracking. As these features roll out to NetSuite customers globally, the focus remains on empowering businesses to leverage data-driven insights for improved operational efficiency and strategic growth. This article, "NetSuite Unveils AI Tools to Streamline Financial Processes and Boost Efficiency" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Oracle NetSuite has unveiled a series of AI-driven innovations aimed at enhancing efficiency and accelerating growth for businesses. This announcement was made at SuiteConnect New York, where Oracle NetSuite, recognized as the top AI Cloud ERP, highlighted features designed to streamline financial operations, strengthen internal controls, and boost profit margins. Evan Goldberg, founder and executive vice president of Oracle NetSuite, emphasized the importance of these innovations, stating, “With a single unified suite and the ability to leverage powerful AI models, NetSuite turns disconnected tasks into intelligent end-to-end workflows.” This integration of AI across various business processes allows organizations to automate routine tasks, gain deeper insights, and respond more agilely to market demands. The new features include the Intelligent Close Manager, which automates the financial close process through a centralized command center. This tool shortens close cycles, enhances accountability, and improves data integrity by utilizing advanced analytics that monitor close activities and provide detailed insights into financial performance. For small business owners, this means less time spent on closing books each month and more focus on strategic decision-making. Another significant enhancement is the AI-powered bank transaction matching feature. By increasing the speed and accuracy of bank reconciliations, this innovation allows businesses to reduce manual reviews and close accounts more efficiently. With generative AI handling the classification of bank activities, small businesses can expect quicker and more reliable reconciliations, ultimately improving cash flow and financial oversight. AI-generated report narratives further empower organizations by transforming complex data into actionable insights. This feature enables users to generate comprehensive narratives within financial and operational reports with a single click, making it easier for small business owners to grasp critical information quickly and share it with stakeholders. Additionally, AI-powered customer summaries streamline issue resolution and improve engagement by providing tailored summaries of cases and transactions. This capability enhances customer service efficiency, allowing small businesses to resolve issues faster and foster stronger customer relationships. For those navigating pricing complexities, the AI-assisted advanced pricing tool centralizes and governs pricing strategies. This feature not only protects profit margins but also enables businesses to respond swiftly to market fluctuations. The ability to configure prices based on various factors, such as customer segments and item assortments, offers small business owners a competitive edge in pricing strategies. NetSuite also introduced the SuiteCloud Developer Assistant, which boosts productivity for developers and administrators by automating repetitive tasks and accelerating coding processes. This can significantly reduce the time needed for custom solutions, allowing small businesses to adapt their ERP systems to their specific needs more efficiently. The NetSuite EPM Planning Agent and EPM Reconciliation Agent are designed to enhance planning and reconciliation processes. The former allows for real-time financial planning and analysis, enabling businesses to conduct “what-if” scenarios that support informed decision-making. The latter automates transaction clearing using AI, which reduces manual effort and allows teams to focus on high-risk exceptions, enhancing overall financial accuracy. NetSuite’s commitment to supporting small businesses extends beyond these AI innovations. Their advanced subscription metrics provide early indicators of growth momentum and churn risk, while multi-subsidiary vendor payments enhance spend management and fraud protection. The flexible commitment allocation feature simplifies complex pricing structures, and improved consignment inventory management optimizes vendor-owned stock tracking. As these features roll out to NetSuite customers globally, the focus remains on empowering businesses to leverage data-driven insights for improved operational efficiency and strategic growth. This article, "NetSuite Unveils AI Tools to Streamline Financial Processes and Boost Efficiency" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

There are few things everyone can rally behind as much as finding a lost dog. But what if that mission is actually a workaround for mass surveillance? That’s the question many people are asking following a Super Bowl commercial from Ring, Amazon’s doorbell camera and home security brand. The 30-second video shows a series of missing dog posters and claims that 10 million pets go missing every year. It pitches Ring’s Search Party feature as the solution. Launched in November, Search Party takes a photo of the pet and taps into Ring cameras across the area. They can then use AI to identify the missing pet and send an alert. The ad claims that at least one dog a day has been found since the feature launched. It sounds like a happy ending, except that critics of Search Party see the ad’s framing as a way to normalize widespread biometric identification and a loss of privacy. Take a response from WeRateDogs, a dog-lovers’ account connected to 15/10 Foundation, a nonprofit raising money to get necessary medical help for shelter dogs. In a video posted to Bluesky on Tuesday, the brand’s creator, Matt Nelson, states, “Neither Ring’s products nor business model are built around finding lost pets, but rather creating a mass surveillance network by turning private homes into surveillance outposts and well-meaning neighbors into informants for ICE and other government agencies.” Solutions for finding lost dogs already exist Nelson further claims that Ring’s success rate of one dog found per day equals about 0.03% of reports shared. Instead of using Search Party, he suggests dog owners get their pet microchipped—a common means of tracking lost dogs. Vets and some shelters can microchip dogs. The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF), a nonprofit focused on “defending civil liberties in the digital world,” takes a similar stance on Ring. “The addition of AI-driven biometric identification is the latest entry in the company’s history of profiting off of public safety worries and disregard for individual privacy, one that turbocharges the extreme dangers of allowing this to carry on,” EFF wrote in response to the ad. The nonprofit continues: “People need to reject this kind of disingenuous framing and recognize the potential end result: a scary overreach of the surveillance state designed to catch us all in its net.” EFF points to instances such as in 2023, when Ring had to pay $5.8 million to settle with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) after Ring employees were found to have had extensive access to customer footage—including in intimate spaces. In reaching the settlement, Ring denied violating the law. In early 2024, Ring claimed it would stop providing footage to the police without a warrant. But both Nelson and the EFF point to Ring’s late-2025 partnerships with Flock Safety and Axon. The companies can request footage from Ring customers—without a warrant—for a case and then send it to thousands of law enforcement agencies. Fast Company has reached out to Ring for comment and will update this post if we hear back. A May 2025 report by 404 Media found that police using Flock’s AI license plate reader regularly put the reason as “ICE.” In a specific case, the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office in Texas, used Flock in its search for a woman who self-administered an abortion. How to turn off Ring’s Search Party feature Ring’s Search Party feature is on by default, but users can turn it off. According to Amazon’s Ring support, you can turn off the Search Party feature by: Going to the Ring app and tap the menu icon (three lines) Clicking Control Center Choosing Search Party Tapping Enable or Disable Search for Lost Pets (Click the blue Pet icon next to it if you want to turn it on or off for specific cameras) Nelson’s post on Bluesky has attracted thousands of shares and hundreds of comments, with some pointing to a Reddit thread in which users are saying they plan to return their Ring camera for a refund. View the full article

Amsterdam court upholds decision to suspend Chinese CEO, hand power to EU-based directors and probe mismanagement allegationsView the full article

The trove of documents released by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in relation to Jeffrey Epstein have revealed just how close the convicted child sex offender and financier was to all sorts of politicians, academics, business leaders, and other prominent figures. These figures not only talked about visits to Epstein’s private island, but also shared news articles, discussed personal events, and had long debates about science and philosophy. Epstein’s views, those conversations reveal, included peddling climate denialism and ecofascism—and illustrate how the ultra-wealthy undermine meaningful climate action. ‘Potentially a good thing for the species’ In a series of July 2016 emails with Joscha Bach, a German philosopher, AI researcher, and cognitive scientist, Epstein brings up climate change in the middle of a discussion about cognition and race. “Maybe climate change is a good way of dealing with overpopulation,” Epstein writes. “the earths forest fire. potentially a good thing for the species.” Linking the conversation back to the earlier topic of how brains function, Epstein adds: “too many people . . . [it] is the fundamental fact that everyone dies at some time. make it [impossible] to ask so why not earlier. if the brain discards unused neurons, why [should] society keep their equivalent.” (Regarding his correspondence with Epstein, Bach recently told SFGate that he hadn’t been aware of Epstein’s crimes after his 2008 conviction and that “his second arrest came as a shock.”) Citing climate change as a solution to overpopulation isn’t a totally surprising position for someone like Epstein, says Michael Mann, a climatologist and coauthor, with Peter Hotez, of the 2025 book Science Under Siege: How to Fight the Five Most Powerful Forces That Threaten Our World. The overpopulation quote is “entirely keeping with the ethos of this group,” Mann tells Fast Company via email, referring to Epstein and his elite associates. Studies suggest that becoming richer makes you less empathetic, and that those with more power often care less about those with little power; the ultra-wealthy can then therefore be more dismissive of the needs of poor people, communities in developing countries, and their lived realities. An example of this way of thinking, Mann notes, comes from Bjorn Lomborg, a political scientist who has been criticized for spreading climate denialism. Lomborg, who also makes an appearance in Epstein’s emails, has argued that poor people need fossil fuels. “Lomborg cynically uses his feigned concern for the poor and downtrodden people of the Global South to justify continued fossil fuel dependence, when in fact it is they who will suffer the most from continued planetary warming,” Mann says. According to the Epstein files, Lomborg had a meeting with the financier in September 2012. That conversation was about philanthropic investments, a spokesperson for Lomborg’s think tank, the Copenhagen Consensus Center, told Drilled Media. But there wasn’t any contact afterward, and the think tank did not receive money from Epstein. Epstein and climate misinformation In some places where the topic of climate change appears in the Epstein emails, Epstein is revealed to have shared messages that perpetuate climate myths. In December 2016, for example, Epstein sent a YouTube video featuring a climate change denier to theoretical physicist Lawrence Krauss. That video, titled “Nobel Laureate Smashes the Global Warming Hoax,” features Ivar Giaever (now deceased), who had long denied the climate crisis. Krauss does push back. “So you are listening to an old Nobel laureate whose expertise has nothing to do with this, who has never studied this in detail, built models, done experiments,” he replies. But Epstein isn’t fully deterred. “i liked the argument that more co2 is good for plants?” he says, repeating a classic myth from the climate denier’s playbook. (In reality, excess CO2 from the burning of fossil fuels leads crop yields to drop and also worsens drought, heat, and disasters that destroy harvests.) In a later reply, Epstein repeats another piece of climate change misinformation: “is the south pole getting colder and more ice?” Krauss responds that the “west Antarctic ice sheet is melting at an unprecedented rate.” This wasn’t the first time that the two discussed climate change—and seemed to disagree about it. In a 2013 email, Krauss sends Epstein an op-ed he wrote for The New York Times, headlined “Deafness at Doomsday,” which touched on how policymakers should not ignore scientists about climate change. “As usual i don’t have to agree but will support your decisions, congratulations,” Epstein replies. (Krauss recently told Nature, in response to questions about his interactions with Epstein, that he did not know about the “horrendous crimes” Epstein was accused of and that he was “as shocked as the rest of the world when Epstein was arrested.”) How plutocrats promote climate denialism Mann’s book details five forces that threaten science: plutocrats, pros, petrostates, phonies, and the press. “The Epstein Files is almost an advertisement for Science Under Siege because we see all of the key promoters of climate denial and anti-science that we talk about in the book,” Mann says. That includes, he notes, “propagandists” like Lomberg and Steven Koonin—a theoretical physicist who is only mentioned in the emails when others are sharing his work. In 2014, Nathan Myhrvold, former CTO of Microsoft, sent Epstein a Wall Street Journal piece headlined “Climate Science Is Not Settled,” by Koonin, calling it “a good summary.” Koonin has criticized climate science and was also an author on the The President administration’s 2025 Department of Energy report that downplayed the climate crisis. The Epstein files also mention connections to “petrostates” (nations whose economies are heavily driven by the extraction and export of petroleum, natural gas, and other fossil fuels), including Russia and Saudi Arabia. And finally, it’s filled with plutocrats, like Elon Musk and Bill Gates. (Musk has denied a personal connection to Epstein; Gates has said he “regrets” his time spent with Epstein and maintains that Epstein’s claims about him in the files are false.) Gates often writes and lectures about climate change; the billionaire Microsoft cofounder has invested billions of dollars into technologies like carbon capture and nuclear power. But Mann has also long criticized Gates’s approach for straying from the straightforward solution of stopping fossil fuel use. To Mann, this is a common tactic from the wealthy, one he describes as “stopping short of denying the basic science of climate change, but downplaying the impacts, dismissing the real solutions (i.e., clean energy), and ultimately acting as enablers of the fossil fuel status quo.” The Epstein files have offered a glimpse into the world of billionaires and the way they collect and wield their power—including billionaire philanthropists who are influencing our reactions to crises like climate change. At a time when public sentiment of billionaires has become increasingly negative, people are questioning just how much influence the ultra-wealthy should have on our society. Mann has previously made the point that the solution to the climate crisis isn’t going to come from “benevolent plutocrats.” “If nothing else,” he tells Fast Company, “the Epstein Files really drive home this point.” View the full article

The Bureau of Labor Statistics issued its delayed January employment report Wednesday morning, showing the economy added 130,000 jobs in January. But the agency also sharply revised its estimates for total jobs created in 2025 to 181,000 from 584,000. View the full article

Sunday night’s Super Bowl and Bad Bunny fell short of setting records for most watched U.S. broadcast and halftime show. Seattle’s 29-13 victory over New England averaged 124.9 million viewers on NBC, Peacock, Telemundo, NBC Sports Digital, and NFL+, according to Nielsen’s Big Data + Panel rating system. That fell short of the 127.7 million U.S. viewers that tuned in for Philadelphia’s 40-22 victory over Kansas City last year on Fox. However, Super Bowl 60 is the most-watched program in NBC history. The network is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Bad Bunny’s halftime show averaged 128.2 million viewers from 8:15-8:30 p.m. Eastern. That would make it the fourth-most watched halftime behind Kendrick Lamar (133.5 million, 2025), Michael Jackson (133.4 million, 1993) and Usher (129.3 million, 2024). Peak audience sets U.S. record The audience for the game peaked at 137.8 million viewers during the second quarter (7:45-8 p.m. Eastern), which is a record. That surpassed the previous mark of 137.7 million during the second quarter of last year’s Super Bowl. This year’s audience ended a streak where the last four Super Bowls had experienced audience increases. It is the fifth straight year the game has averaged over 100 million viewers. After three straight years of Super Bowls that came down to the final minute, the last two have lacked excitement. Sunday’s game was the second in Super Bowl history in which a touchdown had not been scored in the first three quarters. Seattle was up 12-0 going into the final 15 minutes. Last year’s game was decided in the first half as Philadelphia built a 24-0 lead en route to a 40-22 victory. Bad Bunny vs. Kid Rock The Turning Point USA halftime show featuring Kid Rock peaked at 5 million at one point on YouTube. Nielsen did not measure any of the YouTube live stream viewership. Of the linear networks that carried it, the only one Nielsen measures is broadcast network Charge! Full Nielsen ratings for the prior week will be released on Wednesday. According to YouTube figures though, there have been 21,208,583 views of the alternate halftime show through Tuesday night, according to the conservative organization’s page. Bad Bunny’s show has already had 61,311,972 views. Halftime show on social media Total social media consumption of Bad Bunny’s halftime show set a record of 4 billion views after the first 24 hours, according to the NFL and Ripple Analytics. That is a 137% increase over last year. The social media figures include fans, owned platforms, broadcast partners and influencers. The NFL said over 55% of all social views came from international markets. Full global viewership for the halftime show is expected to be available early next week. Spanish audience record Telemundo averaged 3.3 million viewers, making it the most-watched Super Bowl Spanish-language broadcast in the United States. The Super Bowl has been televised in Spanish in the U.S. since 2014. The audience peaked during the halftime show, averaging 4.8 million viewers — also making it the most-watched Super Bowl halftime in Spanish-language history. Olympics benefit from Super Bowl NBC’s “Primetime in Milan” Olympic show, which featured the women’s downhill and team figure skating events, averaged 42 million viewers, the network’s largest Winter Olympics audience since Day 2 of the 2014 Sochi Games. It also was a 73% increase from the Olympics show after Super Bowl 56 (24.3 million). “The Super Bowl and the NFL once again delivered a blockbuster audience across the NBC broadcast network, Peacock and Telemundo, and provided an unprecedented lead-in to our Primetime in Milan coverage,” NBC Sports President Rick Cordella said in a statement. “The Super Bowl and the Olympics are the two most powerful events in the world, and we salute our talented production, tech and announce teams who delivered best-in-class presentations for our viewers, stations and partners.” Other NFL figures The NFL playoffs averaged 37 million viewers the first three weekends, up 5% from last year and the second-most watched in the last 10 years. That followed a regular season that averaged 18.7 million, the second-highest since audience averages began being kept in 1988. It was a 10% increase from last season. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl —Joe Reedy, AP Sports Writer View the full article