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We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. Investing in a smart thermostat won’t just keep your home comfortable — it also can help you save money on energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. By automating scheduling and learning preferred temperatures, smart thermostats conserve energy and make your home more comfortable. The 2022 Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium might not be the newest option on the market, but to this day, it receives consistently excellent ratings, and right now, it’s $198.99 (originally $249.99) on Walmart, marking its lowest price ever according to price trackers. Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium $199.00 at Walmart $249.99 Save $50.99 Get Deal Get Deal $199.00 at Walmart $249.99 Save $50.99 Ecobee is known for having one of the strongest privacy policies in the smart-home space. The company doesn’t sell personal information, collects minimal data, prioritizes user ownership of data, and supports 2FA for added protection. When paired with Ecobee SmartSensors and an Ecobee SmartCamera, it can also double as a home security hub. This model, which earned a PCMag Editor’s Choice award, comes with a smart sensor that balances temperatures in your home using occupancy detection. While the thermostat is smaller than its predecessor, it has a larger four-inch full-color touchscreen that’s bright enough to read from across the room. It has a built-in speaker and mic that’s compatible with a wide variety of smart-home ecosystems, letting you listen to music, get news or weather updates, change thermostat settings, and check the temperature in rooms with sensors. You can even monitor air quality with alerts and tips on indoor humidity levels and whether the air quality is clean or poor. All of this is accessible from the Ecobee mobile app. While the price is higher than a basic smart thermostat, if you want lower energy costs while benefitting from features like measuring air quality, an integrated voice assistant that doubles as a speaker, and remote sensors, the eco-friendly Ecobee Smart Thermostat Premium is a strong choice that can help you save money in the long-run and make your home more comfortable. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 2 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $169.99 (List Price $249.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $29.99 (List Price $49.99) Shark AV2501AE AI XL Hepa- Safe Self-Emptying Base Robot Vacuum — $299.99 (List Price $649.99) Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam, White with Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen), White — $59.99 (List Price $99.99) Blink Video Doorbell Wireless (Newest Model) + Sync Module Core — $29.99 (List Price $69.99) Blink Mini 2 1080p Indoor Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $27.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 with Ring Chime Pro — $149.99 (List Price $259.99) Introducing Amazon Fire TV 55" Omni Mini-LED Series, QLED 4K UHD smart TV, Dolby Vision IQ, 144hz gaming mode, Ambient Experience, hands-free with Alexa, 2024 release — $699.99 (List Price $819.99) Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 2-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core — $51.99 (List Price $129.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released its latest Consumer Price Index reading Friday morning, showing inflation rose by 0.3% in September, slightly below August's pace. The report also found core inflation steady at 3.0%, even as shelter costs eased and gasoline prices spiked. View the full article

Toy retail brand Toys “R” Us will open new flagship stores and seasonal holiday shops just in time for the holidays. The initiative is in partnership with specialty retailer Go Retail Group, the company said. The locations will feature products from popular brands such as Barbie, Hot Wheels, Nerf, Lego, and Paw Patrol. Some of the new stores have already opened their doors. According to the company, additional stores will open throughout the season. Here’s where you can shop Consumers will be able to do their holiday shopping at the following new Toys “R” Us locations: Flagship stores: Chicago Premium Outlets — Aurora, IL Camarillo Premium Outlets — Camarillo, CA Arundel Mills — Hanover, MD Jordan Creek — Moines, IA Westroads Mall — Omaha, NE Denver Premium Outlets — Thornton, CO Tanger Outlets Deer Park — Deer Park, NY Towne East Square — Wichita, KS The Chicago Premium Outlets flagship store is already open. Seasonal holiday shops: The following seasonal shops are already open: Great Lakes Crossing — Auburn Hills, MI Grapevine Mills — Grapevine, TX Lakeside Shopping Center — Metairie, LA Tanger Outlets — Nashville, TN Crabtree Valley Mall — Raleigh, NC The Mall in Columbia — Columbia, MD South Plains Mall — Lubbock, TX Westfield Southcenter — Tukwila, WA Station Park — Farmington, UT The following seasonal shops will open soon: Deptford Mall — Deptford, NJ Eastland Mall — Evansville, IN Mall of New Hampshire — Manchester, NH Bay Street — Emeryville, CA Twelve Oaks Mall — Novi, MI Park Meadows — Lone Tree, CO North Star Mall — San Antonio, TX Tanger Outlets — Sevierville, TN King of Prussia Mall — King of Prussia, PA Crocker Park — Westlake, OH Walden Galleria — Buffalo, NY The social media accounts for Toys “R” Us will have up-to-date store locations and hours. The locations are also searchable on the brand’s store locator page. “The rollout represents a new chapter for Toys ‘R’ Us, strengthening its place at the center of holiday shopping and redefining family retail experiences,” Gideon Schlessinger, CEO of Go Retail Group, said in a statement. “With new stores nationwide, customers of all ages are invited to discover the season’s hottest toys and rediscover what it means to be a Toys ‘R’ Us kid.” Not your grandfather’s Toys “R” Us This isn’t the first time that the Toys “R” Us brand has made a comeback. The original company, a retail mainstay for decades, sought Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2017. It had struggled with debt for years in the wake of a private equity buyout deal in 2005. The toy retailer closed roughly 800 stores in 2018. In October 2018, Tru Kids Brands bought the Toys “R” Us brands and intellectual property. And the following year, the company opened several smaller stores during the holiday season. Brand acquisition company WHP Global snatched up a controlling stake in Tru Kids in 2021. This acquisition led the toy retailer to partner with Macy’s. The department store began promoting Toys “R” Us shops in its department stores and selling its products online. WHP Global first partnered with Go Retail Group in 2023, at the time announcing plans to roll out Toys “R” Us stores nationwide. View the full article

President Donald The President was geared up for a show of federal force in San Francisco, a city he’s blasted as everything wrong with liberal governance. Then conversations with some of the Bay Area’s most prominent tech leaders and the mayor changed his mind. “I got a great call from some incredible people, some friends of mine, very successful people,” The President told reporters Thursday at the White House, specifically referencing Jensen Huang, the CEO of Nvidia, one of the world’s most valuable tech companies, and Marc Benioff, CEO of software company Salesforce. He said they told him San Francisco was working hard to reduce crime. “So we are holding off that surge, everybody. And we’re going to let them see if they can do it,” The President said. He said he could change his mind if it “doesn’t work out.” The President said the increased federal force had been planned for Saturday. He didn’t specify whether he was just referring to National Guard troops, which he had threatened to send in, or if he would also halt a potential ramp up of immigration enforcement. U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents arrived at a U.S. Coast Guard base near the city on Thursday morning, drawing protesters. A careful approach to The President Outreach from billionaire CEOs clearly had a hand in the rare reprieve The President handed a Democrat-led city. But The President also credited Mayor Daniel Lurie, who has worked to avoid direct confrontation with the Republican president since both took office in January. Lurie has governed as an earnest and relentless cheerleader of San Francisco, and repeatedly refused to weigh in on national politics or to mention The President’s name. Instead, he’s focused on local issues — public safety, luring back business and reversing the city’s pandemic-fueled decline. When The President said repeatedly earlier this week that he’d send the National Guard into San Francisco to quell crime, Lurie noted overall crime is down 26% compared to last year and car break-ins are at a 22-year low. “I told the mayor, I love what you’re doing, I respect it, and I respect the people that are doing it,” The President said, referencing a phone call the two had Wednesday. An heir to the Levi Strauss fortune and anti-poverty philanthropist, Lurie is a centrist Democrat who had never held office until he ousted then-Mayor London Breed in last November’s election. He has stated no other political aspirations than to improve the city and has said that he will work with anyone who wants to do the same. “I told him the same thing I told our residents,” Lurie said at a Thursday afternoon news conference to address his call with the president. “San Francisco is on the rise. Visitors are coming back, buildings are getting leased and purchased, and workers are coming back to the office.” Lurie said he told The President that he welcomes the city’s “continued partnership” with the Drug Enforcement Agency and other federal authorities to get illegal narcotics off the streets and contribute to San Francisco’s falling crime rates. Fentanyl has been a major scourge on the city’s streets. “But having the military and militarized immigration enforcement in our city will hinder our recovery,” Lurie said. City reacts with praise and skepticism Former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a San Francisco Democrat, praised Lurie on social media, saying that he “has demonstrated exceptional leadership.” Steve Kerr, Golden State Warriors head coach, called him an “absolute superstar” responsible for the good things happening in San Francisco. The office of California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a former San Francisco mayor, said on X that, “The President, has finally, for once, listened to reason.” Newsom, for his part, has repeatedly sparred with The President, particularly after The President deployed the California National Guard to Los Angeles against Newsom’s wishes. But others are skeptical that The President will keep his word. Indeed, The President said he was giving Lurie “a chance” to turn things around and said the federal government could “take criminals out” much faster. “We cannot trust The President,” said San Francisco Supervisor Connie Chan, a progressive who runs politically left of Lurie but has a good working relationship with the mayor. San Francisco Supervisor Jackie Fielder, who is also more politically liberal than Lurie, said in a statement that she disagrees with Lurie’s desire to coordinate more with federal law enforcement, saying that “is a dangerous invitation to a fascist administration.” CEOs make an appeal The President said he received “four or five calls” from business leaders urging him not to send federal force and to let city leaders continue to work on reducing crime. “They’re the biggest people in the world, a lot of the high tech,” he said at the White House. “They want to do it. And I said, ‘I am so honored to let you do it. And if it doesn’t work out, we’ll do it for you very quickly.'” Benioff of Salesforce, who also owns Time magazine, told the New York Times earlier this month that he’d welcome Guard troops to help quell crime ahead of his major annual business conference. He quickly face backlash and then apologized, saying the troops weren’t needed. He confirmed to The Associated Press that he spoke to The President but did not provide more details. Nvidia declined to comment. In announcing his decision to back off a surge, The President did not mention other cities in the Bay Area, including Oakland, where he has also threatened to send in federal troops. Some other Democrats who have also taken a less combative approach to The President have avoided his focus as he deploys Guard troops around the country. He has not, for example, focused on Detroit despite criticism of the city. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has tried to engage with The President including with White House visits. Associated Press journalist Mike Liedtke contributed. —Janie Har, Associated Press View the full article

Deputy national security adviser Matthew Collins says the label did not reflect Conservative policy at the timeView the full article

In a notable step towards environmental sustainability, Lyft recently announced that it has achieved a target set for 2025: delivering 100 million electric vehicle (EV) rides on its platform. This milestone, reached in September 2025, is part of Lyft’s broader strategy to facilitate America’s transition to electric transportation. For small business owners, particularly those considering incorporating rideshare services into their operations or evaluating sustainable transport options, this development holds significant implications. As Jeremy Bird, Lyft’s Executive Vice President of Driver Experience, noted, this achievement demonstrates that the company’s efforts to encourage EV use among drivers are yielding results. “This milestone proves that our EV incentives, developed in close collaboration with key partners, are working — and they’re serving drivers,” he stated. The rise in EV adoption among drivers stems from several key advantages, which could impact small business owners in various sectors. For rideshare drivers, one of the primary benefits is financial. Lyft’s partnerships with EV charging providers like EVgo and Electrify America have enabled drivers to access charging discounts, significantly reducing operating costs. In 2024, for example, drivers saved approximately $2 million through these discounts, underscoring the potential for increased profitability. Eduardo, a driver in San Francisco, emphasizes these savings: “I was wasting so much money on a regular gas car. I said to myself, ‘I’m going to give EVs a try,’ and I ended up loving it. They’re really nice cars, and I feel like I’m saving a lot of money compared to hybrids and gas cars.” Lyft also offers additional incentives for drivers. In certain states, drivers can earn bonuses for completing a specified number of EV rides weekly. Notably, in California, a region where EV adoption is surging, drivers earned over $24.3 million in bonuses in 2024 alone. “The bonus, combined with how cheap it was to charge, basically paid my car loan by itself,” shared Paolo Freitas Silva, one of the early adopters of this incentive. Moreover, Lyft’s collaboration with Wallbox allows drivers to access discounts on home-charging hardware. This support helps mitigate the upfront costs associated with transitioning to electric vehicles, making them a more feasible option for prospective drivers. Another significant consideration for small business owners is the advantages that EVs provide beyond just cost savings. Drivers have reported higher tips—by approximately 20% to 25%—when using electric vehicles, which can enhance overall earnings. Gary Whitaker, an EV driver, noted that his electric vehicle often piques the interest of passengers, creating engaging conversations that enrich the ride experience. However, challenges remain for small business owners considering rideshare partnerships or introducing EVs into their operations. One common concern among potential EV drivers is “range anxiety,” the fear that a vehicle won’t have enough charge to complete a journey. To combat this, Lyft has implemented the “Rides in Range” feature in collaboration with Smartcar. This ensures drivers receive ride requests that fall within their vehicle’s available battery range. Additionally, Lyft has updated its app to display real-time data from EV charging stations, aiding drivers in planning their routes effectively. As more small business owners evaluate how rideshare operations could complement their existing services, understanding these dynamics is crucial. The ongoing commitment from Lyft to increase the percentage of EV miles (eVMT) on its platform—which has already grown over 200% since 2023—indicates a trend toward sustainability that many businesses may want to align with. As the rideshare landscape continues to evolve, small business owners must weigh the benefits of adopting electric vehicle strategies against the challenges they may encounter. With the backing of corporate partners like Lyft, the shift towards EVs could present not just environmental benefits but also substantial economic advantages for those ready to adapt. For more on Lyft’s sustainability initiatives and the specifics of their recent achievement, including their EV ride incentives, you can read the full release here. Image via Envato This article, "Lyft Hits 100 Million EV Rides Milestone, Boosting Driver Benefits" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In a notable step towards environmental sustainability, Lyft recently announced that it has achieved a target set for 2025: delivering 100 million electric vehicle (EV) rides on its platform. This milestone, reached in September 2025, is part of Lyft’s broader strategy to facilitate America’s transition to electric transportation. For small business owners, particularly those considering incorporating rideshare services into their operations or evaluating sustainable transport options, this development holds significant implications. As Jeremy Bird, Lyft’s Executive Vice President of Driver Experience, noted, this achievement demonstrates that the company’s efforts to encourage EV use among drivers are yielding results. “This milestone proves that our EV incentives, developed in close collaboration with key partners, are working — and they’re serving drivers,” he stated. The rise in EV adoption among drivers stems from several key advantages, which could impact small business owners in various sectors. For rideshare drivers, one of the primary benefits is financial. Lyft’s partnerships with EV charging providers like EVgo and Electrify America have enabled drivers to access charging discounts, significantly reducing operating costs. In 2024, for example, drivers saved approximately $2 million through these discounts, underscoring the potential for increased profitability. Eduardo, a driver in San Francisco, emphasizes these savings: “I was wasting so much money on a regular gas car. I said to myself, ‘I’m going to give EVs a try,’ and I ended up loving it. They’re really nice cars, and I feel like I’m saving a lot of money compared to hybrids and gas cars.” Lyft also offers additional incentives for drivers. In certain states, drivers can earn bonuses for completing a specified number of EV rides weekly. Notably, in California, a region where EV adoption is surging, drivers earned over $24.3 million in bonuses in 2024 alone. “The bonus, combined with how cheap it was to charge, basically paid my car loan by itself,” shared Paolo Freitas Silva, one of the early adopters of this incentive. Moreover, Lyft’s collaboration with Wallbox allows drivers to access discounts on home-charging hardware. This support helps mitigate the upfront costs associated with transitioning to electric vehicles, making them a more feasible option for prospective drivers. Another significant consideration for small business owners is the advantages that EVs provide beyond just cost savings. Drivers have reported higher tips—by approximately 20% to 25%—when using electric vehicles, which can enhance overall earnings. Gary Whitaker, an EV driver, noted that his electric vehicle often piques the interest of passengers, creating engaging conversations that enrich the ride experience. However, challenges remain for small business owners considering rideshare partnerships or introducing EVs into their operations. One common concern among potential EV drivers is “range anxiety,” the fear that a vehicle won’t have enough charge to complete a journey. To combat this, Lyft has implemented the “Rides in Range” feature in collaboration with Smartcar. This ensures drivers receive ride requests that fall within their vehicle’s available battery range. Additionally, Lyft has updated its app to display real-time data from EV charging stations, aiding drivers in planning their routes effectively. As more small business owners evaluate how rideshare operations could complement their existing services, understanding these dynamics is crucial. The ongoing commitment from Lyft to increase the percentage of EV miles (eVMT) on its platform—which has already grown over 200% since 2023—indicates a trend toward sustainability that many businesses may want to align with. As the rideshare landscape continues to evolve, small business owners must weigh the benefits of adopting electric vehicle strategies against the challenges they may encounter. With the backing of corporate partners like Lyft, the shift towards EVs could present not just environmental benefits but also substantial economic advantages for those ready to adapt. For more on Lyft’s sustainability initiatives and the specifics of their recent achievement, including their EV ride incentives, you can read the full release here. Image via Envato This article, "Lyft Hits 100 Million EV Rides Milestone, Boosting Driver Benefits" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The stunning indictment that led to the arrest of more than 30 people, including Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and other NBA figures, on charges of illegal sports betting has drawn new scrutiny of the booming business of professional sports gambling across the U.S. Since widespread legalization, the multibillion-dollar industry has made it easy to place wagers on everything from the outcome of games to that of a single play with just a few taps of a cellphone. It’s just about impossible to go to a basketball, football, baseball or other pro game today — or watch a matchup on TV — without seeing ads for sports betting. Fans can place wagers from their stadium seats, while “Bet” tickers scroll on TV sports broadcasts. Star athletes are frequently at the center of ads promoting it all. In Thursday’s indictment, federal investigators accused Rozier and other defendants of breaking the law by exploiting private information about players to win bets on NBA games. Rozier’s lawyer, Jim Trusty, said in a statement that his client is “not a gambler” and “looks forward to winning this fight.” A separate indictment alleges Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and others participated in a conspiracy to fix high-stakes card games. Billups’ attorney, Chris Heywood, issued a statement denying the allegations, calling his client a “man of integrity.” Regulating sports wagering has proven to be a challenge — and experts warn about the ramifications for gamblers who typically lose money. Professional leagues’ own role in promoting gambling has raised eyebrows. Here’s what we know. Explosion of legalized sports betting Sports betting is probably as old as sports itself. But in the U.S., legal gambling really took off in 2018. That’s when the Supreme Court struck down the Professional Amateur Sports Protection Act, which barred sports betting in most states. Once allowed only in Nevada, sports betting is now permitted online or in retail locations in 38 states and Washington, D.C. Missouri will become the 39th state on Dec. 1. Experts say the biggest jump has been online, through smartphone apps and platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel. Through the third quarter of this year, legal sports betting generated $10 billion in revenue, up about 19% from the same period a year ago, according to the American Gaming Association. The industry argues that legal wagering generates money for states and can deter illegal betting. Major operators point to technology they use to monitor suspicious activity. FanDuel said Thursday’s news illustrates “the stark contrast between legal and illegal betting markets.” Who benefits? There is plenty of money on the table both for those who place winning bets and the platforms that make it possible. The NBA and other pro sports leagues have also created revenue streams by partnering with sportsbooks and reaping advertising dollars. Live game stats provided by leagues are key to the sports world’s relationship with the gambling industry. When you’re able to bet what the next pitch in a baseball game is going to be, that’s because Major League Baseball is selling data to platforms “for a pretty high price,” according to Isaac Rose-Berman, whose research focuses on sports betting as a fellow at the American Institute for Boys and Men. The NBA has a partnership with Sportradar for its data rights. Sportradar, in turn, provides FanDuel Sportsbook official NBA statistics. When the deal was announced in 2022, Sportradar touted it as a way “to monetize our long-term partnership with the NBA.” How is sports betting regulated? Each state has its own regulations and tax rates for sports betting. A handful restrict where you can place bets — allowing users to use mobile apps, but only while they’re physically inside a casino or within a certain radius of a stadium, for example. Others limit which betting platforms you can use or what you can bet on. “States sort of opened up a can of worms, and now some of them are starting to realize just how crazy this sports betting world sort is,” said Wayne Taylor, a professor of marketing at Southern Methodist University. An even stickier factor is when players and other team or league personnel are involved. The NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL all prohibit employees and players from betting on their own league games, although some gambling in separate areas is allowed. Legalized betting has certain security advantages in that unusual betting patterns — such as large bets being placed on a random player’s performance — can be immediately flagged. In some cases, sportsbooks have taken down odds on certain events to protect against manipulation. Still, experts like Taylor note that companies’ own financial interests may bring some of that into question. And across the sports market, he says the large number of players and scope of micro bet possibilities makes potential manipulation “easier to hide.” What is prop betting? A prop is a type of wager that allows gamblers to bet on whether a player will exceed a certain statistical number, such as whether a basketball player will finish over or under a certain total of points, rebounds, assists and more. This kind of bet is key to the sports betting probe announced Thursday. Investigators pointed to a March 23, 2023, game involving Rozier, then playing for the Charlotte Hornets. Rozier played the first 9 minutes and 36 seconds of that game — and not only did he not return that night, citing a foot issue, but he did not play again that season. He finished with five points, four rebounds and two assists — a productive opening quarter, but well below his usual total output for a full game. At the time, many bettors turned to social media to say that something shady occurred regarding prop bets involving his stats for that night. More broadly, the NBA has expressed concern about prop bets, while other sports leagues have worried about the potential for manipulation. Earlier this year, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine urged his state’s gambling commission to ban prop bets after Major League Baseball placed two Cleveland Guardians pitchers on leave during a sports betting investigation. What are other pitfalls and social implications? Sports betting also faces criticism for opening the door to addictive gambling. “The fact that it’s normalized, the advertising is aggressive, it’s available 24/7, the micro bets — all of this is adding up to tremendous increase in usage across individuals,” said Taylor, citing algorithms and other incentives betting platforms use to increase engagement. Rose-Berman notes that platforms make the most off of returning “biggest losers.” Recent research suggests that young men in low-income communities are particularly affected by financial consequences tied to sports gambling. “Upwards of 90% of sports bettors are not really going to experience significant negative impacts — but it’s really concentrated among those big losers and it’s going to be devastating for them,” he said. Associated Press reporters Tim Reynolds in Miami, David Lieb in Jefferson City, Missouri, and Alan Suderman in Richmond, Virginia, contributed to this report. —Wyatte Grantham-Philips, AP Business Writer View the full article

Crushing defeat in Wales raises questions over Starmer’s leadership but result shows resistance to ReformView the full article

Kering released its third-quarter 2025 financial results on Thursday, showing it reduced the slump it had seen in the previous quarter. The French luxury goods house, which owns brands like Balenciaga, Gucci, and Yves Saint Laurent, reported 3.42 billion euros ($3.97 billion) in group revenue, down 5% year-over-year (YOY) compared to a 15% drop in quarter-two. It also beat Wall Street’s estimate of a 9.6% decline, according to consensus estimates cited by Reuters. Kering attributed the reduced revenue YOY, in part, to a negative currency effect of 5%. Luxury is in a lull As a whole, luxury brands have struggled in recent years, with blame boomeranging between factors like changing desires among young consumers, a domino effect from the COVID-19 pandemic, and a downturn in China—one of luxury’s biggest markets. At Kering, Gucci, specifically, was still in a lull, though it saw an improvement over quarter two’s 25% drop. The brand just beat its predicted revenue of 1.32 billion euros ($1.53 billion), with 1.34 billion euros ($1.56 billion) and a 14% decline YOY, according to consensus estimates cited by CNBC. Fashion designer Demna took over as Gucci’s artistic director in July after a decade in the same role at Balenciaga. Yves Saint Laurent had a 4% decrease in revenue YOY, while other parts of the business saw an uptick in YOY revenue: Bottega Veneta is up 3% and Kering Eyewear is up 7%. The new boss is not especially happy with the results “Kering’s third-quarter performance, while representing a clear sequential improvement, remains far below that of the market,” Kering CEO Luca de Meo said in a statement. “This reinforces my determination to work on all dimensions of the business to return our Houses and the Group to the prominence they deserve. We are working relentlessly on our turnaround, as shown by our recent decisions.” De Meo, previously the chief executive of automotive giant Renault, took the helm at Kering on September 15, most of the way through quarter three. Former CEO François-Henri Pinault stayed on as chairman of the board of directors. Kering’s shares (EPA: KER) were up 8.7% at close on Thursday—a high for 2025—before falling over 4% during trading on Friday. The earnings report comes only a few days after Kering announced the all-cash sale of its beauty division to L’Oreal for 4 billion euros ($4.6 billion). That deal is expected to close in the first half of 2026 and gives L’Oreal ownership over the House of Creed high-end fragrance company and licenses for brands including Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, and Gucci. Kering will receive royalty payments from L’Oreal. The latter has owned the beauty license for Kering’s Yves Saint Laurent, since 2008. View the full article

The Long Island-based bank hasn't been profitable in eight quarters, but executives maintain that it's on the right path, citing more loan book diversity, lower expenses and an improved margin. View the full article

Alaska Airlines said its operations have resumed Friday after it had to ground its planes for hours because of an information technology outage. The airline said in a statement that 229 flights were canceled because of the outage and that more flight disruptions were expected as it worked to “reposition aircraft and crews.” Alaska Airlines said it is working on getting travelers affected by the disruption to their destinations. It asked that passengers check their flight status before heading to the airport. The grounding Thursday affected Alaska Air and Horizon Air flights. Hawaiian Airlines, which was bought by Alaska Air Group last year, said its flights were operating as scheduled. In July, Alaska grounded all of its flights for about three hours after the failure of a critical piece of hardware at a data center. There has been a history of computer problems disrupting flights in the industry, though most of the time the disruptions are only temporary. The story has been updated to correct the time element of operations resuming to Friday, from Thursday, and the day of the grounding to Thursday, from Wednesday. 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. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE has dropped to $331.50 at Walmart, which is a pretty sharp price considering the same model is listed at $429.99 on Amazon. Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE, 128GB $331.50 at Walmart $499.99 Save $168.49 Get Deal Get Deal $331.50 at Walmart $499.99 Save $168.49 It’s the newest entry in Samsung’s midrange tablet lineup, following last year’s S9 FE, and while not a massive upgrade, it’s still one of the few Android tablets that feel genuinely premium for the price. The 10.9-inch display and metal body give it a sturdy, high-end feel, and the IP68 rating means it can handle splashes—something even pricier iPads skip. Samsung includes its signature S Pen in the box, perfect for jotting notes, sketching, or navigating the screen—and its stylus software remains best in class. That alone makes this tablet worth considering if you like to jot things down or doodle on the go. Under the hood, the Tab S10 FE runs on the Exynos 1580 chip, paired with 8GB RAM and 128GB of storage. It’s not a powerhouse, but it gets through everyday tasks like web browsing, note-taking, and streaming without fuss. The battery is the same 8,000mAh as last year, but thanks to efficiency gains, it lasts longer (over 13 hours in mixed-use tests). Charging is quick too, with 45W fast charging support, though you’ll need your own adapter since Samsung doesn’t include one in the box. The 10.9-inch LCD screen is bright and crisp with a 90Hz refresh rate, though it lacks the Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support found on some rivals like the OnePlus Pad 2. The stereo speakers sound clean, if a bit restrained, and the 16:10 aspect ratio makes movies look natural in landscape mode. That said, cameras (13MP rear and 12MP front) are serviceable for video calls but nothing more. On the software side, Samsung’s One UI 7, running on top of Android 15, makes multitasking easy. You can open multiple apps, split the screen, or switch to DeX mode for a desktop-style layout with keyboard and mouse support. The software experience is mature, flexible, and backed by six years of updates, which is rare at this price. On the downside, the interface can feel cluttered with Samsung’s extra apps, and performance won’t impress gamers or power users. Still, the Galaxy Tab S10 FE delivers a solid mix of design, display, and software longevity. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 2 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $169.99 (List Price $249.00) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — $29.99 (List Price $49.99) Shark AV2501AE AI XL Hepa- Safe Self-Emptying Base Robot Vacuum — $299.99 (List Price $649.99) Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam, White with Ring Indoor Cam (2nd Gen), White — $59.99 (List Price $99.99) Blink Video Doorbell Wireless (Newest Model) + Sync Module Core — $29.99 (List Price $69.99) Blink Mini 2 1080p Indoor Security Camera (2-Pack, White) — $27.99 (List Price $69.99) Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 with Ring Chime Pro — $149.99 (List Price $259.99) Introducing Amazon Fire TV 55" Omni Mini-LED Series, QLED 4K UHD smart TV, Dolby Vision IQ, 144hz gaming mode, Ambient Experience, hands-free with Alexa, 2024 release — $699.99 (List Price $819.99) Blink Outdoor 4 1080p 2-Camera Kit With Sync Module Core — $51.99 (List Price $129.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

President Donald The President announced he’s ending “all trade negotiations” with Canada because of a television ad opposing U.S. tariffs that he said misstated the facts and called “egregious behavior” aimed at influencing U.S. court decisions. The post on The President’s social media site came Thursday night after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said he aims to double his country’s exports to countries outside the U.S. because of the threat posed by The President’s tariffs. The President’s call for an abrupt end to negotiations could further inflame trade tensions that already have been building between the two neighboring countries for months. The President posted, “The Ronald Reagan Foundation has just announced that Canada has fraudulently used an advertisement, which is FAKE, featuring Ronald Reagan speaking negatively about Tariffs.” “The ad was for $75,000. They only did this to interfere with the decision of the U.S. Supreme Court, and other courts,” The President wrote on his social media site. “TARIFFS ARE VERY IMPORTANT TO THE NATIONAL SECURITY, AND ECONOMY, OF THE U.S.A. Based on their egregious behavior, ALL TRADE NEGOTIATIONS WITH CANADA ARE HEREBY TERMINATED.” Carney’s office didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment. The prime minister was set to leave Friday morning for a summit in Asia, while The President is set to do the same Friday evening. The President, a Republican, was still at it on Friday morning, furiously posting on his social media site that “CANADA CHEATED AND GOT CAUGHT!!!” on the tariff ad. “THE UNITED STATES IS WEALTHY, POWERFUL, AND NATIONALLY SECURE AGAIN, ALL BECAUSE OF TARIFFS!” he wrote in a separate post on his Truth Social account. “THE MOST IMPORTANT CASE EVER IS IN THE UNITED STATES SUPREME COURT. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!” Earlier Thursday night, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute posted on X that an ad created by the government of Ontario “misrepresents the ‘Presidential Radio Address to the Nation on Free and Fair Trade’ dated April 25, 1987.” It added that Ontario did not receive foundation permission “to use and edit the remarks.” The foundation said it is “reviewing legal options in this matter” and invited the public to watch the unedited video of Reagan’s address. As for the Supreme Court, The President is referring to a case scheduled for early November in which the justices will consider the legality of his sweeping tariffs. Two lower courts have determined that The President cannot unilaterally impose wide-ranging tariffs under an emergency powers law. His administration argues otherwise, saying he can regulate importation and that includes tariff policy. Carney met with The President earlier this month to try to ease trade tensions, as the two countries and Mexico prepare for a review of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement, a trade deal The President negotiated in his first term but has since soured on. More than three-quarters of Canadian exports go to the U.S., and nearly $3.6 billion Canadian ($2.7 billion U.S.) worth of goods and services cross the border daily. The President said earlier this week that he had seen the ad on television and said that it showed that his tariffs were having an impact. “I saw an ad last night from Canada. If I was Canada, I’d take that same ad also,” he said then. In his own post on X last week, Doug Ford, the premier of Ontario, posted a link to the ad and the message: “It’s official: Ontario’s new advertising campaign in the U.S. has launched.” He continued, “Using every tool we have, we’ll never stop making the case against American tariffs on Canada. The way to prosperity is by working together.” A spokesperson for Ford didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday night. But Ford previously got The President’s attention with an electricity surcharge to U.S. states. The President responded by doubling steel and aluminum tariffs. The president has moved to impose steep U.S. tariffs on many goods from Canada. In April, Canada’s government imposed retaliatory levies on certain U.S. goods — but it carved out exemptions for some automakers to bring specific numbers of vehicles into the country, known as remission quotas. The President’s tariffs have especially hurt Canada’s auto sector, much of which is based in Ontario. This month, Stellantis said it would move a production line from Ontario to Illinois Associated Press writers Seung Min Kim in Washington and Rob Gillies in Toronto, Ontario, contributed to this report. —Will Weissert, Associated Press View the full article

The number of prospective buyers touring properties in the city last week fell 8.5% from a year earlier, according to data from Bright MLS, a regional multiple listing service. It's the eighth straight weekly decline. View the full article

I will never forget the day I realized how rare it is to see businesses support parents—or what a huge impact even the tiniest efforts can make. “We’re just going to run into the store for a few quick things!” I called to my two kids with confidence as I unloaded them from the car, skipping the bulky stroller and putting my 1-year-old in the shopping cart seat. But what should have been a simple trip took a turn when we unexpectedly needed to visit the restroom. As any mom knows, this is where things can start to unravel: You can’t take the cart inside, so what are you supposed to do with your not-yet-walking child while you help the bigger one use the toilet? And how are you supposed to use the toilet yourself while also holding a squirmy baby? I opened the door and braced myself for the chaos that would certainly come—so when I stepped into a large stall and saw a strap-in “baby holder” attached to the wall, I could have wept with relief. Then, the appreciation rolled in: These wall-mounted baby safety seats are a game changer for parents who are tasked with taking kids to the restroom. But then I was hit with confusion: Why are simple considerations like this one so rare to see? Why am I so impressed with what should really be considered the bare minimum when it comes to supporting parents in public places? Since then—during countless visits to kid-friendly spaces like the zoo, the pediatrician’s office, department stores, and public parks—I’ve always noticed and questioned how businesses support (or don’t support) parents. (You know what would make life unbelievably easier for parents? A $15 step stool so kids can reach the sink to wash their hands. I think about this almost every day.) https://www.threads.com/@motherspeak/post/DMaDCwwOV6G?xmt=AQF0ERX0a5kpyUnw-O98LoVt3rNq8jKzxZktM8aRA52h-A&slof=1 Appealing to parents isn’t just a do-good strategy, either—it’s good business. “Gen alpha—born between 2010 and 2025—is on track to be the biggest generation ever in history,” says Lauren Smith Brody, founder of The Fifth Trimester, a business strategy firm focused on moms. “So anything retailers and public spaces can do to welcome that generation now will only build brand loyalty that will pay off later.” Kid-friendly policies and spaces signal a friendly, inclusive, thoughtful culture overall, she says. “The step-stool in the bathroom and the animatronic ear of corn [at Stew Leonard’s, a grocery chain in the northeast] attracts and retains parents as customers, but they also signal to everyone: Humanity is valued here; joy and ease are a part of this experience.” Numerous studies indicate that Gen Z and younger millennials are also values-driven in their shopping. Recently, we asked our audience what considerations they’d like to see businesses make to better appeal to parents—and hundreds of moms weighed in. What did we learn? One: Prioritizing parents isn’t unheard of; some industries and places are already getting it right. And two: The most common requests from parents and caregivers are mostly minor, reasonable, and would go a long way for families and businesses. Here’s a look at what categories are getting things right—and how businesses can improve their family-friendly policies. Hotels have long catered to families—and are doing even more today Many hotels offer smart amenities to make life a little easier for parents—including complimentary kids’ gear, babysitting services, and much more. The Four Seasons, in particular, has long been known to cater to families. The Philadelphia and Baltimore properties will provide you with a Baby Brezza bottle washer, bottle dryer, breastmilk & formula warmer, and more. The Four Seasons Hotel Boston features a kids’ toy closet located behind the check-in desk for little ones to explore while caregivers check in and out. “This allowed us a few moments to get everything sorted, and the kids were in heaven,” said Cassie Shortsleeve, a mom of three in Boston (and a cofounder of Two Truths). In Orlando, you don’t need to worry about packing swim diapers (they’re provided), and you can request items to childproof a room. Properties like Carmel Valley Ranch (see: the “Munchin Menu”) and Wequassett Resort & Golf Club also have partnerships with major children’s brands, such as Nuna and Maxi-Cosi, to borrow or rent gear like strollers, playards, baby carriers, and more. Some shopping destinations have become more family-friendly Ikea was a big winner among our responses. “They have that Scandinavian family-friendliness,” says Marissa Lanterman, a mom of one in Baltimore. “Family parking, cart and stroller accessibility, high chairs in all eating areas, changing tables in bathrooms, step stools for kids at sinks, comfy baby care rooms, Småland . . . you really can’t beat it.” For new moms in particular, Nordstrom was a standout shopping destination mentioned multiple times—mostly for its family restrooms and clean, comfortable lactation lounges with couches and sinks. Another favorite: Wegman’s. “They have built-in stepping stools in the bathroom at the sinks, a baby holder in the stalls so you can use the toilet in peace, a wall of every size diaper available for free if needed, and little car carts to keep toddlers occupied while shopping,” says Sara Creary, a mom of one in Pittsford, NY. Many eateries keep kids in mind One (potentially surprising) space that many moms praised? Breweries. “Our local brewery is like our own little Europe—a public space for play and relaxation for kids and adults alike,” says Lily Dunlop, a mom of two in Seattle. Kelsey Glynn, a mom of three, says her favorite brewery even brings out complimentary kid snacks: “At BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse here in Arizona, they immediately serve a plate of fruit and Goldfish to help manage kids’ hunger before their food arrives at the table.” “A coffee shop I went to had a kids’ corner with a play kitchen and espresso machine,” says Christa Ursini, a mom of one in South Salem, NY. “It was magic—parents could enjoy their coffee while their kids played.” Public spaces can be kid-friendly It’s not just specific businesses that cater to kids and families, but public places more generally, as well. Some popular family travel destinations are full of family-friendly spots, but also put families first when it comes to strategic planning and development: Newport, RI, for one, is dotted with parks and playgrounds throughout and in between more formal “stops” like an aquarium or an old-school arcade that may be on an itinerary. To that point, moms we spoke to highlighted that public places that attract kids, such as playgrounds and parks, should have some key components: water fountains, bathrooms, shade, and fencing—all critical aspects for parents that can make or break the decision of where to spend your time. Pop-up lactation pods—such as Mamava—are another great feature for businesses of all sizes, but especially handy in spaces like airports, zoos, and amusement parks. There’s more to be done: Here’s what parents want When we asked our audience how businesses could improve for parents, we were struck by the similarity between responses—with many requests, especially very basic ones, appearing again and again. Here are the main takeaways. In bathrooms: Baby changing tables in both the women’s and men’s rooms, ideally located within a stall for privacy. (“It’s really jarring to go to a restaurant that has high chairs and crayons at the table, but not a single baby changing table in any bathroom,” one mom told us. “Am I supposed to put my baby on the floor?”) Lower sinks or step stools that allow small kids to wash their hands Paper towels as an alternative to loud hand dryers (which many kids are afraid of or sensitive to) Bag hooks and/or shelves near sinks and changing stations Within dining establishments: Disposable table covers so kids can eat off a sanitary surface High chairs and booster seats that are—and this is important!—kept clean Food-safe wipes available for parents to clean tables and high chairs as needed Stainless steel kid-sized cutlery Kids’ cups with lids Disposable bibs Activities for kids—from basic (crayons and coloring sheets) to bonus (toy basket, Magnatiles, books, etc.) Healthier, lighter kids’ menu options (fruit, cheese, crackers, nuts, veggies & dip, etc.) Outdoor play areas (when space allows) are huge bonus that many parents will seek out In stores: Aisles that are wide enough to accommodate strollers Increase curbside pick-up options More parking spots reserved for families (either near the door or near the cart return) Simple treats that make kids excited to visit (like stickers, a la Trader Joe’s) In a society that is woefully lacking systemic support for parents and often unconducive to kids, businesses have a powerful opportunity to step up and set new standards that show families they are seen, appreciated, and valued. “Any business that goes the extra mile for parents really stands out, driving word of mouth and customer loyalty,” says Brody. “And any public space that makes parents feel good about the love and work they’re pouring into their kids is going to win that business in a big way.” View the full article

Figure paves way for expected Fed rate cut next weekView the full article

You may or may not have heard of "eating the frog." It's one of those things that triggers the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon once you learn about it: Suddenly, everyone seems to be saying it, which is jarring, since it's a little graphic and evocative. Luckily, it doesn't mean you have to eat any frogs for real; it's just a way to refer to the productivity philosophy that says you should tackle your biggest, toughest task first thing in the morning. What it means to "eat the frog"“Eat the frog” means “do the day’s worst task as soon as you wake up.” It comes from a quote attributed to Mark Twain, though there are a few different versions floating around. (Lifehacker Editor-in-Chief Jordan Calhoun, for example, calls it “swallowing the frog,” which sounds more awful for reasons I can’t quite pinpoint.) Basically, what Twain is alleged to have said (though there isn’t much proof he really did) is that if you have to eat a frog, you should do it straight away in the morning so the worst part of your day is immediately behind you. Regardless of the dubious origin of this colorful suggestion, it’s led to the creation of a popular self-help series by Brian Tracy and has evolved into shorthand for getting the hard stuff out of the way so you can focus on your other tasks. What’s in it for you?As Tracy explains on his blog, your “frog” is whatever your biggest, most important task is at any given moment: “It is the one you are most likely to procrastinate on if you don’t do something about it.” You don’t even have to eat the frog as soon as you wake up; you can simply make a conscious effort to get your hardest responsibilities handled before moving on to lesser ones. But you should try to get them out of the way early in the day. When I have to have an uncomfortable phone call, I schedule it for the earliest possible time in the day. When I have a project due, I try to wake up early to take care of it instead of staying up late. I can attest to the fact that I feel great throughout the day knowing that the worst thing I had to do is already done. This always makes it seem like whatever other tasks I need to handle are a breeze. They pale in comparison to the behemoth I knocked out in the early hours. If no particular task is filling you with dread, you can replace something unpleasant with something important or resource-heavy. To determine which of your to-dos is most pressing—and, thus, is the frog you should eat—you can use a prioritization system like the Eisenhower matrix or the 1-3-5 method. In fact, the 1-3-5 technique helps you structure your day around the completion of one major task, three medium ones, and five little ones, making it ideal for frog-eating. If you struggle with procrastination—whether cleaning your house or doing work for school or your job—or you find that you get all the little stuff done but don’t make sufficient progress on the big stuff, try eating the frog. Schedule the most despised tasks for the morning. Try going to the gym before work instead of after, blocking out your first half hour of work to respond to neglected emails, or scrubbing down the kitchen before making your morning coffee. Study for the test in your most difficult class before studying for your easier ones. Call your parents before calling your friends. You get the idea. It's similar to the two-minute rule, which says you should jump on any and every task that takes fewer than two minutes the moment it occurs to you. Your frogs may take longer than two minutes, but the idea that you should simply tackle them instantly without deliberating or procrastinating is crucial. Get into the habit of just doing things. Ideally, make your ranked to-do list the night before so you have nothing to think about when you wake up and you can get right to business. As you build this habit and mindset, at some point, moving on to the smaller activities—even if they’re important—will feel like a reward. View the full article

Yesterday, Target Corporation announced news that no one wants to hear—especially just before the holidays. The Minneapolis-based retail giant informed employees that it is gearing up to eliminate 1,800 corporate roles at the company. Here’s when the layoffs will happen and what it means for the company and its employees. Target to cull its corporate workforce by 8% On Thursday, Target’s chief operating officer, Michael Fiddelke, who is set to become the company’s new CEO in February, reportedly sent a memo to employees at the 440,000-strong company. According to numerous media reports, Fiddelke’s memo didn’t beat around the bush: the company has decided to eliminate 1,800 positions. Yet the layoffs will not hit the majority of the company’s workforce. Much of its 440,000 employees work as retail members across its nearly 2,000 stores in the United States. The layoffs are not expected to impact these retail employees, who the company will rely heavily on during the upcoming holiday period. Instead, the job cuts will hit Target’s corporate workforce. And as CNBC notes, citing the memo, 1,800 positions will be eliminated. The eliminations include 1,000 direct employee layoffs and another 800 roles that will no longer be filled. In his memo sent to Target staff, Fiddelke said the elimination of 1,800 corporate roles represents a reduction of “about 8% of our global HQ team.” Fiddelke’s memo included the usual platitudes that company leadership makes when laying off employees, noting the “real impact” that the layoffs will have on Target’s team and that the company never makes such moves “lightly.” However, he also argued the layoffs are “a necessary step in building the future of Target and enabling the progress and growth we all want to see.” Of course, the future of Target will be of little consequence to those losing their jobs ahead of the holidays. Fast Company has reached out to Target for comment and will update this story if we hear back. A spokesperson told CNBC that, in addition to severance packages, those laid off will receive benefits and pay until January 3. Competitors Walmart and Amazon are thriving The layoffs may not be much of a surprise to people who have been paying attention to Target’s recent struggles. While the company’s competitors, such as Walmart and Amazon, have seen their businesses—and stock prices—thrive, it’s been an opposite story for Target. As my colleague Elizabeth Segran explored in May, Target had a “terrible, horrible, no good, very bad year.” In January, in the lead-up to Donald The President’s inauguration, Target announced it was reversing course on its celebrated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments. Many loyal Target customers saw that as capitulation, and the backlash, in the form of boycotts, was swift, with foot traffic to many of its stores falling by up to 7.7%. And it’s not like President The President has done Target many favors, as his tariffs have had a measurable impact on Target’s costs. The company acquires most of its items from overseas, including China. It must now pay more for those products and thus take a hit on its bottom line, or pass the cost of those price increases onto customers, which could lead to them buying less. And those customers are already under pressure from inflation, which has caused them to pull back on their discretionary spending. That’s a big problem for Target, as the majority of the goods it sells are discretionary items. All of these issues are something that incoming CEO Fiddelke is going to have to fix, and, with yesterday’s announcement, it appears that he thinks layoffs are part of that fix. TGT investors don’t seem to care about the layoffs So far at least, Target’s investors don’t seem to think these layoffs will meaningfully impact the company in the short term. Often when a corporate giant announces mass layoffs, the company’s stock price spikes. That’s because layoffs are seen as the fastest way for a company to reduce its costs, which can help increase profits. But looking at Target’s stock price (NYSE: TGT) this morning, it appears as if investors are shrugging off the news. As of this writing, TGT stock is up just half a percent to $94.75 in premarket trading. Yesterday, TGT shares closed up just a quarter of a percent to $94.25. This suggests that investors are going to need to see a lot more change at the company—and with its finances—to get them excited about the stock again. And TGT stock has had a bad run as of late. As of yesterday’s close, TGT shares were down more than 30% since the year began. Over the past 12 months, TGT shares have fallen more than 36%. And over the past five years, TGT shares have dropped a staggering 41%. During that same five-year timeframe, shares in competitor Walmart (NYSE: WMT) are up 122% and shares in Amazon.com (Nasdaq: AMZN) are up almost 38%. View the full article

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, small businesses are being presented with an array of opportunities and challenges brought on by artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. Visa Inc. recently announced the launch of its Trusted Agent Protocol, a framework aimed at enhancing security and trust in AI-driven commerce—an initiative that could significantly benefit small business owners navigating this new terrain. As AI-driven traffic to U.S. retail sites has skyrocketed by 4,700% over the past year, shoppers increasingly engage AI agents to search for products and make purchases on their behalf. While 85% of users affirm that AI has improved their shopping experience, the rise of these agents brings unique hurdles for merchants—particularly small businesses that may lack robust IT resources. One key challenge lies in managing bot detection systems that often misidentify legitimate transactions as fraudulent. Small businesses are especially vulnerable, as they might not have the resources to fine-tune these systems effectively. The Trusted Agent Protocol aims to alleviate this issue by providing a framework for merchants to verify the identities of AI agents, distinguishing them from malicious bots. Jack Forestell, Visa’s Chief Product & Strategy Officer, emphasizes the need for trust: “We believe the entire payments ecosystem has a responsibility to ensure sellers can trust AI agents as much as they trust their best customers and networks.” This newly developed protocol is designed to be user-friendly, aiming for no-code functionality. This means small business owners can incorporate it without needing extensive technical expertise, streamlining their payment processes and improving customer experiences. The Trusted Agent Protocol features advanced specifications that allow approved AI agents to relay essential information to merchants. Key components include: Agent Intent: This confirms that the agent is a trusted entity looking to purchase or gather information. Consumer Recognition: Information showing if a consumer has an existing relationship or account with the merchant. Payment Information: Agents can facilitate a smoother checkout process by carrying payment data linked to the merchant’s preferred payment methods. This structure not only simplifies the process for small businesses but also strengthens customer relationships. By enabling safer and more efficient transactions, the Trusted Agent Protocol can enhance customer loyalty and trust—critical components for small business success. While the benefits are evident, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. One concern is the dependency on digital infrastructure. As merchants integrate this new protocol, they may need to reevaluate their current systems to ensure compatibility. Additionally, as AI agents become ubiquitous, small businesses might face increased pressure to adopt new technologies to stay competitive, which can stress limited budgets and resources. Another consideration is the need for ongoing education about the technology. Business owners will need to train staff to understand the workings of the Trusted Agent Protocol and ensure robust customer support for any AI-related transactions to maintain trust in their brand. Collaboration is also a focal point for Visa’s initiative. The protocol was developed alongside industry leaders such as Cloudflare, Microsoft, and Shopify, signifying a broader shift towards a more interconnected payments ecosystem. This ecosystem-wide approach seeks to facilitate safer transactions regardless of the platform, ensuring that small businesses are not left behind in the advancements of digital commerce. Ultimately, the Trusted Agent Protocol positions itself as a vital tool for small businesses looking to navigate the AI-driven world of e-commerce. By simplifying verification processes and enhancing security for transactions, it supports merchants in building trust with both customers and AI agents. As Forestell put it, creating a seamless experience for agent-initiated transactions can significantly contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of small businesses in the digital age. For small business owners eager to harness the opportunities presented by AI while minimizing risks, the Trusted Agent Protocol represents a promising stride forward. More details can be accessed directly from Visa’s release here. Image via Envato This article, "Visa Launches Trusted Agent Protocol to Secure AI-Driven Commerce" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, small businesses are being presented with an array of opportunities and challenges brought on by artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies. Visa Inc. recently announced the launch of its Trusted Agent Protocol, a framework aimed at enhancing security and trust in AI-driven commerce—an initiative that could significantly benefit small business owners navigating this new terrain. As AI-driven traffic to U.S. retail sites has skyrocketed by 4,700% over the past year, shoppers increasingly engage AI agents to search for products and make purchases on their behalf. While 85% of users affirm that AI has improved their shopping experience, the rise of these agents brings unique hurdles for merchants—particularly small businesses that may lack robust IT resources. One key challenge lies in managing bot detection systems that often misidentify legitimate transactions as fraudulent. Small businesses are especially vulnerable, as they might not have the resources to fine-tune these systems effectively. The Trusted Agent Protocol aims to alleviate this issue by providing a framework for merchants to verify the identities of AI agents, distinguishing them from malicious bots. Jack Forestell, Visa’s Chief Product & Strategy Officer, emphasizes the need for trust: “We believe the entire payments ecosystem has a responsibility to ensure sellers can trust AI agents as much as they trust their best customers and networks.” This newly developed protocol is designed to be user-friendly, aiming for no-code functionality. This means small business owners can incorporate it without needing extensive technical expertise, streamlining their payment processes and improving customer experiences. The Trusted Agent Protocol features advanced specifications that allow approved AI agents to relay essential information to merchants. Key components include: Agent Intent: This confirms that the agent is a trusted entity looking to purchase or gather information. Consumer Recognition: Information showing if a consumer has an existing relationship or account with the merchant. Payment Information: Agents can facilitate a smoother checkout process by carrying payment data linked to the merchant’s preferred payment methods. This structure not only simplifies the process for small businesses but also strengthens customer relationships. By enabling safer and more efficient transactions, the Trusted Agent Protocol can enhance customer loyalty and trust—critical components for small business success. While the benefits are evident, small business owners should also consider potential challenges. One concern is the dependency on digital infrastructure. As merchants integrate this new protocol, they may need to reevaluate their current systems to ensure compatibility. Additionally, as AI agents become ubiquitous, small businesses might face increased pressure to adopt new technologies to stay competitive, which can stress limited budgets and resources. Another consideration is the need for ongoing education about the technology. Business owners will need to train staff to understand the workings of the Trusted Agent Protocol and ensure robust customer support for any AI-related transactions to maintain trust in their brand. Collaboration is also a focal point for Visa’s initiative. The protocol was developed alongside industry leaders such as Cloudflare, Microsoft, and Shopify, signifying a broader shift towards a more interconnected payments ecosystem. This ecosystem-wide approach seeks to facilitate safer transactions regardless of the platform, ensuring that small businesses are not left behind in the advancements of digital commerce. Ultimately, the Trusted Agent Protocol positions itself as a vital tool for small businesses looking to navigate the AI-driven world of e-commerce. By simplifying verification processes and enhancing security for transactions, it supports merchants in building trust with both customers and AI agents. As Forestell put it, creating a seamless experience for agent-initiated transactions can significantly contribute to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of small businesses in the digital age. For small business owners eager to harness the opportunities presented by AI while minimizing risks, the Trusted Agent Protocol represents a promising stride forward. More details can be accessed directly from Visa’s release here. Image via Envato This article, "Visa Launches Trusted Agent Protocol to Secure AI-Driven Commerce" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Party promised six months ago that a specialist team would tackle wasteful spending in local governmentView the full article

While logic might suggest that getting more done means operating in a constant state of productivity, the opposite can actually be true: When you hit that afternoon slump and can’t seem to push through the simplest of tasks, it's probably because you needed a break earlier in the day—certainly science backs up that idea. Put simply, your brain needs regular periods of downtime to maintain peak operation. After periods of intense work, taking a brief break doesn’t just improve your mood—it can actually boost your concentration and performance. So if you want to be truly productive, you should schedule those rest periods into your busy day. The case for scheduling your "brain breaks"It’s one thing to know you need downtime, but another to actually find time for it in your day. Through the course of a busy schedule—working, cleaning, studying, taking care of kids, driving, and doing all the other things on your to-do list—you might have the best of intentions when it comes to taking breaks, but not actually do it in the moment. That’s why you should schedule them. In one episode of HBO's Succession, the character Shiv Roy actually set aside a block of time on her calendar for crying. You might not need to cry, but Shiv’s got the right idea: Open the calendar on your phone and add in blocks of personal time throughout your day, however you might spend it. Maybe you like to scroll TikTok, look at recipes, work on your creative projects, close your eyes for a moment, or call a friend. Whatever you’d like to do, prioritize it seriously by building the space for it into your schedule. If you use a shared calendar at work or home, block it out so everyone can see. You don’t need to publicly state what it’s for; you’ll know. And you won’t be letting your colleagues or family down since you’ll be even more productive when it’s over. Most importantly, stick to it. Even 15 minutes per day can be beneficial, but not if you don’t adhere to your plan. Being serious about taking time for yourself will help you build the habit and give you something to look forward to when working gets hard, so treat it like an important step in your workday. How to time your breaks for maximum productivityThere are a few approaches you can take to ensure your downtime proves to be effective. First, you should be time blocking and time boxing. These similar but distinct techniques involve not only determining exactly how much time you'll need for a given task, but using a calendar or planner to mark it all down. Using something like Google Calendar or even a physical planner, you'll account for every second of your day, so the entire column is filled up with back-to-back entries—but not all of those entries will be for work. Here is your chance to slot in something enjoyable, like a 2 p.m. matcha run or an episode of SVU at 8 p.m. You'll feel better about scheduling downtime if you're doing it alongside the designation of work tasks, and if you can see it all concretely represented in one place. Second, use the Pomodoro method. This famous productivity hack calls on you to work for 25 minutes, take a five-minute break, work another 25, break again, and repeat the cycle four times before taking a longer break. Building in smaller breaks this way might make the exercise more palatable if you are struggling to justify off-time. Plus, Pomodoro is more flexible than it seems at first, and a lot of variations exist. Take animedoro, for instance: you work for 40 to 60 minutes with a 20-minute break, about the length of an episode of anime. You don't need to watch anime, of course, nor be so rigid with your timing: The important part is being conscientious about interspersing your work sessions with small breaks. View the full article

One of my Bentley University students put it plainly the other day: “AI taking entry-level jobs is a ‘when,’ not an ‘if.’ But in venture capital, 70% of the decision is reading the founder and team—and that’s something AI can’t do.” That simple breakdown , 70% people, 30% product—flips the usual narrative about finance. For decades, finance was defined by numbers. Analysts lived and died by the spreadsheets. Today, AI can run discounted cash flows, parse a term sheet, and size a market faster than any junior associate. But if you talk to people in venture capital, they’ll tell you the math has never been the most important part. The numbers matter, of course, but the difference between betting on a future unicorn and losing it all is whether you can read the humans across the table. AI’s takeover of the “crunching” jobs Students see what’s coming. The entry-level finance roles that once trained armies of analysts are increasingly exposed to automation. AI models can scan thousands of comparable companies in seconds, build slide decks, even flag anomalies that a first-year hire would have spent a weekend catching. In fact, McKinsey estimates that nearly half of finance tasks could already be automated by existing AI tools. What was once seen as a rite of passage—the long hours bent over Excel—may soon look as outdated as typewriters in an accounting office. That’s why many students I teach don’t just worry about if AI will change their jobs. They assume it already has. The conversation now is how to build careers in finance when machines are better, faster, and cheaper at the very tasks that used to get you in the door. The venture capital exception Venture capital, especially at the earliest stages, offers a counterintuitive lesson. The math can only take you so far. Market sizing, revenue projections, even technical due diligence—all of it is valuable, but none of it predicts success the way the founder does. Investors I’ve spoken with put it bluntly: you’re betting on people, not just products. That’s the essence of the 70/30 rule my student repeated: 70% of the investment decision is about the team. Only 30% is about the idea. Surveys of venture investors back this up. First Round Capital, for example, has consistently found that founder quality outranks product or market sizing in early-stage decisions. You want founders with resilience, persuasion, and the grit to pivot when the idea inevitably changes. AI can tell you the addressable market. It cannot tell you if this particular founder has the charisma to convince skeptical investors, the judgment to hire the right people, or the sheer stubbornness to keep going after three failed prototypes. As one early-stage investor told me recently, “AI can show me a founder’s track record in five seconds, but it can’t tell me whether they can read a room or take a punch. That’s still my job.” Why Gen Z gets it What strikes me is how quickly students are internalizing this. Rather than seeing their careers in finance as doomed, they are recalibrating. They want to be the people who can build relationships, persuade others, and trust their instincts. They’re preparing not to be number crunchers, but decision-makers. In class discussions, they talk about internships where AI already plays a role in screening deals. Their takeaway isn’t despair—it’s clarity. They see that the irreplaceable part of the job is not working the models but reading the room. They know AI may one day suggest which startup should succeed, but it won’t sit across the table from a founder at 11 p.m., hear the quiver in their voice, and know whether that’s nerves or conviction. Gen Z, often criticized for being “too soft,” may be better positioned than we think. They’ve grown up digital. They understand the strengths of machines, but they also see the limits. They’re comfortable letting AI do the heavy lifting if it means their human skills rise in value. Lessons for the future of work This shift should force us to rethink not only finance, but the future of work itself. If venture capital is a case study, the lesson is that industries once defined by quantitative rigor may end up placing even greater value on qualitative judgment. Harvard Business Review has made a similar point, noting that as AI scales technical analysis, “soft skills” are fast becoming the hardest skills to replace. The irony is rich: the most number-driven fields may be the ones where numbers matter least. And if that’s true, Gen Z might just be the generation that restores humanity to the financial world—not by rejecting technology, but by mastering what machines can’t. Back to the 70/30 rule That brings me back to my student. Their comment wasn’t just about venture capital. It was about what comes next in finance, and perhaps beyond. If AI eats the numbers, the real work will be reading people. AI owns the math. But the gut—the judgment, empathy, and intuition that turn data into decisions—still belongs to us. In the end, the algorithms will get faster, but the best investors will always pause, look across the table, and trust what no machine can calculate: the human pulse of possibility. View the full article

Hello again, and thank you, as always, for spending time with Fast Company’s Plugged In. Apple is legendary for figuring out what people want before they realize they want it. But since 2021, its MacBook Pro hasn’t been like that at all. Instead, this venerable laptop’s recent design has reflected Apple’s willingness to trust its customers’ judgment—even when it’s been at odds with the company’s own instincts. In part, that’s because of a 2016 reimagining of the MacBook Pro that didn’t stick. Atypically, Apple then went on to reverse many of the changes it had made. The fancy function-key replacement known as the Touch Bar went bye-bye. And several mundane-but-useful features Apple had axed came back, including the MagSafe power connector, HDMI port, and SD Card slot. The result was a computer that was noticeably chunkier than the MacBook Air. But it was also particularly well tailored to the needs of people who prize sheer usefulness above all else. It was a workhorse—you know, professional. The newest 14-inch MacBook Pro, which I’ve been using for a little less than a week (the company provided a unit for review), retains that vision. Actually, it retains everything about its immediate predecessor except the chip. A classic example of a “speed bump” upgrade, the machine is now powered by Apple’s next-generation M5 processor. So are updated versions of the iPad Pro and Vision Pro—an unusual example of disparate Apple products shipping with the same new chip all at once. In another break from recent years, Apple isn’t immediately rolling out the new MacBook Pro in multiple variants: fast, faster, and fastest. Only the entry-level 14-inch model is getting a new chip. Higher-end Pros (including the 16-inch version) are still equipped with last year’s M4 Pro and M4 Max chips, leaving the MacBook Pro lineup in transition. For now, the M5 MacBook Pro, with a starting price of $1,599, occupies a middle ground among Apple laptops. Many people will be delighted with the cheaper, lighter, thinner MacBook Air, an exemplary laptop in its own right. Others whose jobs involve particularly computationally intensive work, such as heavy-duty video editing, might opt for the M4 Pro or M4 Max versions of the MacBook Pro, or wait for M5 Pro and M5 Max ones. Apple itself described the M5 chip as suitable for “college students, business users, and aspiring creators,” a pretty concise way of encompassing the M5 MacBook Pro’s sweet spot. Still, even though I’m a happy owner of a 15-inch MacBook Air, spending time with the new MacBook Pro made clear to me why some people would gladly pay a premium for it. For starters, there are several fundamental ways in which the MacBook Pro is enough better than the MacBook Air to matter. That starts with the screen, which has brighter Mini-LED lighting and, thanks to ProMotion technology, smoother scrolling. The $150 Nano-texture display option, which Apple included on my review unit, does the job when it comes to the promised glare reduction: I felt more like I was reading off paper than a shiny LCD. The Pro’s six-speaker audio system, with a subwoofer, is a significant upgrade over the Air’s. Its claimed battery life is longer—up to 24 hours of video streaming versus 18 for the Air. Yes, that’s an upgrade from impressively long to remarkably long, but anything that reduces a portable computer’s reliance on chargers and AC outlets is a blessing. Buy a MacBook Pro, and you may also be able to avoid dealing with the dreaded, easy-to-misplace adapters known as dongles. It has three USB-C ports versus the Air’s two, and they’re divvied between the left and right sides, letting you plug in cables any which way without having to snake them around. As for the built-in HDMI and SD Card slot, their survival in 2025 is miraculous given that Apple tried to eliminate them almost a decade ago—but I, for one, would use the SD slot all the time to transfer photos and videos from my Fujifilm camera. Okay, how about that new M5 chip? Apple emphasizes its improved performance in AI-intensive tasks such as applying filters to video and running local LLMs. Jason Snell of Six Colors benchmarked the new MacBook Pro and found it substantially quicker than the MacBook Air. His charts also show MacBook Pro models with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips remaining faster still, because they have more CPU and GPU cores than the M5. In my informal experiments with tasks such as editing images in Photoshop and outputting video projects from DaVinci Resolve, the M5 MacBook Pro was a rocket. But with the exception of epoch-shifting moments such as Apple’s 2020 transition from Intel chips to ones it designed itself, the launch of a new processor is rarely a reason to rush out and buy a new computer. Instead, most people should hold off on springing for a new machine until their current one is showing its age—a buying strategy Apple tacitly acknowledges in its marketing for the M5 MacBook Pro by comparing its performance to its M1 ancestor, which dates to 2020. The best reason to get a new computer is as an insurance plan against future obsolescence. The M5 MacBook Pro is just a faster version of a familiar laptop. But it’s well positioned to stay useful even as AI becomes a more pervasive element of MacOS and Mac apps. Apple certainly won’t leave the MacBook Pro feeling so familiar forever. Last week, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported that the company is currently working on a thinner, lighter version with an M6 chip—and the Mac line’s first-ever touchscreen. Here’s hoping that no matter how much the MacBook Pro evolves, it retains the quiet emphasis on straightforward, well-appointed productivity that defines it. You’ve been reading Plugged In, Fast Company’s weekly tech newsletter from me, global technology editor Harry McCracken. If a friend or colleague forwarded this edition to you—or if you’re reading it on FastCompany.com—you can check out previous issues and sign up to get it yourself every Friday morning. I love hearing from you: Ping me at hmccracken@fastcompany.com with your feedback and ideas for future newsletters. I’m also on Bluesky, Mastodon, and Threads, and you can follow Plugged In on Flipboard. More top tech stories from Fast Company Google’s Pixel Watch 4 is the least-annoying smartwatch I’ve ever used Little things make the company’s latest wearable less intrusive. 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