Chick-fil-A is trying out two chicken-and-waffle sandwiches at some restaurants in Baltimore, Maryland, and San Antonio, Texas. This test will last from December 1 to January 24, or until they run out. The company will decide about a nationwide launch based on feedback and sales during this trial period.
Key Facts
Chick-fil-A is testing two new chicken-and-waffle sandwiches in Baltimore, Maryland, and San Antonio, Texas.
The test will run from December 1 to January 24, or until supplies are gone.
Baltimore will offer both a Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Sandwich and a regular Chicken & Waffles Sandwich; San Antonio will only have the breakfast version.
The breakfast sandwich is available until 10:30 a.m. at participating stores.
Each sandwich comes with maple waffles, applewood-smoked bacon, a honey butter spread, and a choice of spicy or original chicken filet, with syrup.
Chick-fil-A will use customer feedback and sales data to decide if the sandwiches should be offered nationwide.
Testing new menu items in select locations before a national rollout is common in the fast-food industry.
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Bank of America is launching a new platform called '401k Pay' on November 17. This tool helps people convert their 401(k) retirement savings into regular income after they retire. The service is available at no extra cost to participating businesses and their employees.
Key Facts
'401k Pay' is designed to help people turn their 401(k) savings into steady retirement income.
The platform will be available starting November 17.
It offers features like flexible payment options and real-time income tracking.
Over 70 million customers and small businesses in the U.S. can access the new tool.
The service is free for businesses and employees who use Bank of America's retirement programs.
A Bank of America report shows 36% of workers want better retirement planning resources.
The tool was created with input from Bank of America's corporate clients to address workers' needs on retirement income.
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President Trump’s administration is removing tariffs on coffee and other products from certain countries to help lower grocery costs. This decision comes amid concerns about rising food prices, which have become a political issue. The tariffs' lift is expected to offer limited relief as it applies to a small portion of U.S. imports.
Key Facts
President Trump's team is removing tariffs on coffee and other goods from countries like Argentina and Ecuador.
The tariffs affected prices of items like coffee, which saw significant price increases.
These changes aim to address concerns about rising grocery costs affecting consumers.
Brazil and Colombia, major coffee suppliers to the U.S., will still face tariffs.
Countries benefiting from the tariff relief account for only about 7% of U.S. coffee imports.
The main goal of the tariffs was to boost American manufacturing, not impact food prices.
White House policies have focused on lowering inflation and essential item prices.
Experts say the tariff changes may offer limited price relief due to external factors like climate issues affecting crops.
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The UK's government borrowing costs have increased after reports suggested that the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has decided against raising income tax in the upcoming Budget. The interest rates on UK government bonds, which represent borrowing costs, have risen as a result. This decision has raised concerns about how the government will manage its finances without the expected tax increase.
Key Facts
The interest rate on 10-year UK government bonds increased to 5.56% from 5.44%.
Similar increases occurred for 20- and 30-year government bonds, known as gilts.
The Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, has reportedly dropped plans to raise income tax in the upcoming Budget.
Investors had expected an income tax hike and were surprised by this change.
Concerns have been raised about how the government will fill its financial gaps without the tax increase.
The pound has fallen in response to market concerns about fiscal management.
Reeves has set goals not to borrow for day-to-day spending and to reduce government debt as a share of national income.
Think tanks estimate that the government needs to find £22-25bn to meet its financial commitments.
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Disney and Google are in a dispute that has left YouTube TV users without access to Disney channels like ABC and ESPN since October 30. Disney CEO Bob Iger claims they offered Google a deal comparable to other agreements, which Google rejected. Meanwhile, YouTube TV has partnered with NBCUniversal to launch NBC Sports Network exclusively on its platform.
Key Facts
Disney and Google are in a disagreement over the rights to show Disney channels on YouTube TV.
YouTube TV subscribers have been unable to watch ABC, ESPN, and other Disney networks since October 30.
Disney CEO Bob Iger stated their proposed deal to Google is similar to agreements made with other companies.
Google allegedly turned down Disney's deal, leading to the ongoing dispute.
NBCUniversal has launched NBC Sports Network exclusively on YouTube TV.
NBC Sports Network aims to offer a wide range of sports programming to YouTube TV subscribers.
The NBC Sports Network deal is part of NBCUniversal’s strategy to expand both linear and streaming options.
The standoff between Disney and Google has lasted for more than two weeks.
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Rachel Reeves is expected to cancel plans to raise income tax rates in the upcoming Budget. This decision was reportedly made to avoid upsetting voters and members of the Labour Party.
Key Facts
Rachel Reeves is the chancellor responsible for the Budget.
It was reported that Reeves planned to increase income tax rates, but these plans may be dropped.
This decision comes after concerns about breaking a previous election promise.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy stated that no final decisions have been made regarding the Budget.
The Treasury has not commented on these reports.
Reeves hinted that tough financial decisions are needed and that everyone has to contribute financially.
The financial news was originally reported by the Financial Times.
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In 2025, foreclosure activity in the U.S. has increased, with 36,766 properties facing foreclosure filings in October. This marks a rise both month-over-month and year-over-year, although levels are not as high as during past housing crises. Experts suggest the situation reflects changes in market conditions but do not see it as an alarming upward trend yet.
Key Facts
In October 2025, 36,766 U.S. properties saw foreclosure filings, a 3% rise from September and a 19% increase from the previous year.
This represents the eighth straight month of annual increases in foreclosure filings.
Foreclosure starts rose by 6% from the previous month and were up 20% compared to 2024.
States with the highest foreclosure rates include Florida, South Carolina, Delaware, and Nevada.
Despite increases, current foreclosure levels are lower than those during the housing crisis.
Experts note foreclosures remain low partly due to homeowners having low-interest mortgage rates.
The market's normalization reflects higher housing and borrowing costs, but experts do not anticipate a severe crisis like the past.
Economic factors such as household debt and rising car repossessions indicate broader financial stress.
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AT&T agreed to a $177 million settlement over two lawsuits concerning data breaches in 2024. Customers affected by these breaches may be eligible to claim up to $7,500, depending on the specifics of their data exposure. Claims must be submitted by December 18, 2025, and the settlement awaits final court approval.
Key Facts
AT&T settled for $177 million in response to two data breach lawsuits.
The breaches occurred in March and July 2024, affecting millions of customers.
Personal details like Social Security numbers and call records were exposed.
Customers affected by the March breach can claim up to $5,000.
Those affected by the July breach can claim up to $2,500.
Claims must be filed online or by mail by December 18, 2025.
The settlement needs final approval in court on January 15, 2026.
The claims website is www.telecomdatasettlement.com.
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President Donald Trump announced trade agreements with four Latin American countries to reduce import taxes on coffee and bananas. The agreements aim to address concerns about affordability in the U.S. while maintaining certain tariffs on other goods. The deals are part of a broader effort to ease trade tensions and are expected to be signed soon.
Key Facts
Trade deals involve four Latin American countries: Argentina, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Ecuador.
The U.S. will lower tariffs on coffee and bananas from these countries.
A 10% tariff will remain on goods from Guatemala, Argentina, and El Salvador, and a 15% tariff on Ecuador.
Coffee, cocoa, and bananas are among the goods expected to be exempt from tariffs.
The U.S.-Argentina deal also focuses on beef producers accessing foreign markets.
Guatemala and Ecuador are leading banana exporters to the U.S.
Brazil, the top coffee exporter to the U.S., is not part of this deal.
The deals are anticipated to be signed within two weeks.
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Verizon plans to lay off about 15,000 employees, which is around 15% of its U.S. workforce, as part of a restructuring plan led by its new CEO, Dan Schulman. The job cuts will mainly affect non-union management roles and come as Verizon faces increased competition and slowing subscriber growth. The company is also planning to franchise approximately 180 corporate-owned retail stores.
Key Facts
Verizon plans to cut 15,000 jobs, representing 15% of its U.S. workforce.
The layoffs are part of a restructuring effort under new CEO Dan Schulman.
Non-union management positions will be most affected, with more than 20% of those roles impacted.
Verizon will change about 180 corporate-owned stores into franchises.
The company faces increased competition from AT&T and T-Mobile as subscriber growth slows.
Verizon spent significant amounts on acquisitions and spectrum purchases in recent years.
The company had around 100,000 U.S. employees at the end of 2024 and laid off nearly 20,000 over three years.
Verizon stock rose 1.3% in midday trading as news of the layoffs emerged.
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The article discusses how the ongoing government shutdown in the United States is impacting the health care industry. It explains that if Congress does not extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits, many Americans could face increased health insurance premiums, and more people could become uninsured. This situation poses financial and operational challenges for hospitals and health systems.
Key Facts
The U.S. government has been in a shutdown for 43 days, impacting various sectors, including health care.
A proposed deal could end the shutdown, allowing health care regulatory activities to resume.
About 24 million Americans obtain health coverage through ACA marketplaces, with many relying on subsidies.
If ACA premium tax credits expire, premiums might increase significantly, potentially doubling for some.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that 4.2 million people might lose coverage if the credits are not extended.
Hospitals may face financial strain due to an increase in uninsured or underinsured patients.
Safety-net and rural hospitals are particularly at risk from the expiration of the subsidies.
Congress is likely to discuss extending the subsidies in December, but no decision is guaranteed.
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The Trump administration announced new trade deals with Argentina, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Ecuador. These deals are part of the U.S. effort to strengthen relationships with countries in Latin America. Details about the specific terms of the deals have not yet been fully disclosed.
Key Facts
The U.S. government has announced four new trade agreements.
The countries involved are Argentina, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Ecuador.
These deals aim to improve U.S. ties with Latin American nations.
Argentinian President Javier Milei supports President Trump and has attended U.S. political events.
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele has cooperated with the U.S. on deportation matters.
The exact details of the trade deals are not fully available yet.
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Guests at Sonder properties were asked to leave in the middle of their stay because the company declared bankruptcy. Marriott ended its leasing deal with Sonder due to financial issues. Sonder, known for premium apartment rentals, is seeking bankruptcy protection in all countries where it operates.
Key Facts
Sonder, a rental company for premium apartments, has gone bankrupt.
Guests staying at Sonder properties were asked to leave due to the bankruptcy.
Marriott ended its leasing agreement with Sonder because of financial problems.
Guests who booked via Marriott's platforms are getting help, while others are advised to seek refunds from their credit card companies.
Sonder blamed technology and financial issues for its bankruptcy.
There have been complaints about access issues with door codes and lack of communication from Sonder.
Sonder is filing for insolvency in all countries where it operates.
Marriott clarified it does not charge cards for Sonder bookings but is helping with refunds.
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The Trump administration is exploring a new idea called "portable mortgages" that would let homeowners transfer their current mortgage rate to a new home. This change aims to help make homes more affordable by allowing people to keep their existing interest rates when they move, although it may not benefit all groups equally.
Key Facts
The Trump administration is considering the introduction of portable mortgages.
Portable mortgages allow homeowners to move their current mortgage rate to a new house.
The median sale price for a home in the U.S. was $415,200 in September.
The average interest rate for mortgages is around 6.3%.
Portable mortgages could particularly help older homeowners who have lower interest rates.
The Federal Housing Finance Agency, led by Bill Pulte, is evaluating portable mortgages.
Critics say portable mortgages might not help renters or those without current mortgages.
Experts warn that while it could solve some issues, it won't address deeper affordability problems.
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Starbucks workers at 65 unionized U.S. stores are striking over pay and staffing issues. The strike aligns with Starbucks' Red Cup Day, aiming to pressure management for better labor conditions after contract talks stalled earlier this year. The union says more than 1,000 workers in over 40 cities are participating.
Key Facts
The strike involves workers from 65 Starbucks stores in the U.S.
Workers are demanding better pay and staffing.
Contract negotiations broke down in the spring.
The union, Starbucks Workers United, has organized the strike.
The union has won union elections at over 600 Starbucks locations.
The strike takes place on Red Cup Day, a major sales event.
More than 1,000 baristas are participating in over 40 cities.
Starbucks claims the strike affects fewer than 1% of their stores.
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A government official in the UK stated that major mistakes occurred in a scheme to insulate homes, leading to damp and mould issues. Nearly all of the 23,000 homes that received external wall insulation under two schemes are at risk, and the responsible department did not adequately oversee the work.
Key Facts
The National Audit Office reported that 98% of 23,000 homes with new wall insulation could have damp and mould problems.
The issues are linked to external wall insulation installed through two government schemes.
Over three million homes have been insulated under various government initiatives over the past 20 years.
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero was criticized for not properly overseeing the insulation schemes.
Trustmark, the body monitoring insulation quality, was found to have poor oversight.
Billions of pounds of public money have been spent on these insulation schemes.
Government officials acknowledged systemic failings in managing these projects.
MPs have called for the government to address the problems and ensure consumers are protected.
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The U.S. government shutdown has ended, but it created a delay in important economic data reports. This delay might lead to missing information about the economy's situation in October. Officials are concerned that this could affect the understanding of economic trends in the coming months.
Key Facts
The shutdown caused a delay in releasing important economic data reports.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) might not release data for October.
The missing data could affect analysis of November economic trends.
The White House press secretary mentioned potential permanent harm to the Federal statistical system.
The BLS plans to update the schedule for releasing economic reports soon.
There is uncertainty about whether the October unemployment rate will be known.
Economists have concerns about the quality of future Consumer Price Index (CPI) data due to the data disruption.
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There is uncertainty about whether the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates in its upcoming December meeting. Some members of the rate-setting committee disagree on the best direction for policy, especially with high inflation and limited economic data.
Key Facts
The Federal Reserve is undecided on cutting interest rates next month.
Boston Fed President Susan Collins opposes cutting rates soon.
There are significant disagreements within the Fed, with some Trump-appointed governors pushing for rate cuts.
The chance of a December rate cut dropped from previous months.
Lack of sufficient economic data adds to the uncertainty of decision-making.
If no rates are cut, up to three governors might disagree publicly, which is rare.
If rates are cut, several members, including Collins, might oppose.
Chair Jerome Powell faces challenges due to these internal disagreements and missing data.
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Disney and YouTube TV are in a disagreement over carriage rights, leading to a halt in ESPN and ABC broadcasts on YouTube TV. This conflict has resulted in financial losses for Disney and frustration for sports fans missing key football games. Reports indicate a possibility of a resolution, although outcomes remain uncertain.
Key Facts
Disney and YouTube TV are having a dispute over carriage rights, which decides how TV channels are broadcast.
This disagreement has stopped ESPN and ABC from being shown on YouTube TV for three weekends.
Disney is losing about $4.3 million each day due to this issue.
As of the article, the dispute has lasted for 14 days since the channels were removed on October 31.
Disney CEO Bob Iger claims Disney's offer to YouTube TV is equal to or better than deals with other distributors.
Reports suggest there is some hope for an agreement between Disney and YouTube TV soon, despite no deal yet.
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Banks are using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve customer service and operations, even as they move cautiously due to concerns about compliance and accuracy. Middlesex Savings Bank, a 190-year-old bank, uses AI tools to support staff and maintain consistent customer service. AI projects are primarily seen as tools for enhancing business outcomes, not just cutting costs.
Key Facts
Banks face challenges in adopting new technology due to compliance and organizational structure.
Middlesex Savings Bank is using AI to improve customer service and identify potential issues proactively.
There is skepticism and concern among bank leaders about AI accuracy and security.
AI tools at Middlesex Bank help staff with training and provide quick access to information.
The bank emphasizes that AI should enhance business goals rather than just reduce expenses.
The bank has implemented process automation to improve efficiency, saving significant staff hours.
AI is seen as a partnership tool to grow revenue, not to cut jobs.
Robotics process automation has been part of their strategy for about eight years.
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