The American Hospital Association (AHA) is unhappy with new payment changes announced by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). These updates will change Medicare payment policies, impacting thousands of hospitals and outpatient centers. The CMS argues these changes will improve care quality and save money, while the AHA believes they will worsen financial problems for hospitals.
Key Facts
CMS updated Medicare payment policies and rates for hospital outpatients and Ambulatory Surgical Center (ASC) services starting in 2026.
Hospitals that meet quality reporting requirements will see outpatient payment rates increase by 2.6%.
The American Hospital Association opposed these changes, claiming they worsen financial pressures on hospitals.
CMS states these updates will save $11 billion over ten years and impact about 4,000 hospitals and 6,000 ASCs.
CMS plans to phase out the Inpatient Only List (IPO), affecting where patients can receive care, over the next three years.
The policy changes aim to increase outpatient care access and transparency in hospital pricing.
Rural sole community hospitals will not face certain payment reductions applied elsewhere.
CMS also plans to continue its 340B recoupment policy, reducing some hospital payments annually starting in 2026.
Tyson Foods is reducing operations at its Amarillo, Texas plant and closing its Lexington, Nebraska plant due to low cattle supplies and financial losses. This decision affects about 1,700 workers in Texas and 3,200 workers in Nebraska. The U.S. cattle herd is at a historic low, impacting the beef industry significantly.
Key Facts
Tyson Foods is cutting jobs due to low cattle supplies and financial losses.
The plant in Amarillo, Texas, will reduce operations, affecting about 1,700 workers.
The Lexington, Nebraska plant will close by January 2026, impacting roughly 3,200 workers.
U.S. cattle herd levels are the lowest they've been in nearly 75 years.
Tyson aims to increase production at other plants to maintain beef supply.
Tyson's beef division lost $426 million in the last year, with further losses expected.
Beef prices are rising due to limited cattle supply and high demand.
Texas cattle industry faces challenges from droughts and rising costs.
An employee shared on Reddit that their manager asked for the name of their next employer after they handed in their resignation. This request sparked a debate online about whether such information should be disclosed. Many people supported the employee's decision to keep this information private, arguing it was unnecessary for their manager to know.
Key Facts
An employee posted on Reddit about a manager's request for details on their next job after they resigned.
The post gained over 7,600 upvotes and many comments, mostly criticizing the manager's request.
The employee refused to share the information, citing it as personal business.
HR expert Taylor Bradley commented that such demands are often due to deeper workplace issues like lack of trust.
Bradley emphasized the importance of respectful transitions rather than seeking irrelevant information.
Many Reddit users supported the idea that informing a new employer is not typically necessary.
Concerns were raised that the manager might misuse the information about the new employer.
Bradley suggested setting boundaries if faced with similar situations and seeking any relevant documents if pressure persists.
Walt Disney took a significant risk by creating Disneyland, which faced skepticism from those close to him, including his brother Roy and his wife Lillian. Despite financial struggles and initial rejections, Disney pushed forward, secured funding through a deal with ABC, and developed innovative designs for the park. Disneyland opened in Anaheim, California, in 1955 and became a notable success.
Key Facts
Walt Disney dreamed of building Disneyland, which began development in the early 1950s.
Disney financed the project partially by using his own money, including cashing in life insurance and selling a vacation home.
Disneyland was initially rejected by Burbank City Council, leading Disney to find land in Anaheim, California.
The ABC Television Network funded part of Disneyland's construction in exchange for a TV show and partial park ownership.
Walt's brother, Roy, helped secure bank loans to support the project.
The park's design included berms and forced perspective to create an immersive experience for visitors.
Construction of Disneyland began in July 1954, with the park opening a year later in July 1955.
Despite initial doubts, Disneyland became successful and established a new trend in theme parks.
The American Farm Bureau Federation says Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people will cost less this year, dropping to $55.18, which is the lowest price since 2021. Despite some items increasing in price, like fresh vegetables and sweet potatoes, the cost of turkey significantly declined by over 16%.
Key Facts
The average cost of a Thanksgiving dinner for 10 is $55.18, 5% lower than in 2024.
Turkey prices dropped significantly, with a 16-pound bird costing $21.50, down more than 16% from last year.
The decline in turkey prices is happening despite a tighter supply and higher wholesale costs.
Prices for grocery staples like dinner rolls and stuffing mix also decreased this year.
Fresh vegetables and sweet potatoes increased in price, with a veggie tray costing 61% more and sweet potatoes up 37%.
Weather disruptions and agricultural challenges, including hurricane damage in North Carolina, affected fresh produce prices.
The South reported the lowest regional average for a Thanksgiving meal at $50.01, while the Western states had the highest at $61.75.
The American Farm Bureau Federation has been tracking Thanksgiving food prices since 1986 for consistent comparisons.
A new study by Cotality shows that Florida and Washington D.C. saw the biggest home price drops compared to last year. Home prices grew slowly across the U.S. in September due to higher costs like mortgage rates and taxes. Seven of the ten markets with the largest price drops are in Florida, while the Northeast continues to have high demand.
Key Facts
Florida and Washington D.C. had the biggest drops in home prices in September compared to the same time last year.
Home prices across the U.S. were only 1.2% higher in September than the year before and have decreased by 0.2% from the previous month.
The increase in available homes has reached its highest level since 2019.
Twenty percent of the 411 U.S. metropolitan areas saw home prices go down in September.
Seven of the ten U.S. markets with the largest price drops were in Florida.
The Northeast has the hottest markets due to home shortages and strong job markets.
Florida's markets are cooling because they rely more on retirement and tourism, with less economic diversity.
The rising costs of owning a home, such as escrow payments, are affecting affordability and keeping properties on the market longer.
Home Depot faced boycott calls from a campaign group accusing it of cooperating with U.S. immigration enforcement. Home Depot denied these claims, stating they do not coordinate with immigration authorities. The boycott is part of a broader protest against several major U.S. companies.
Key Facts
A group called "We Ain’t Buying It" called for a boycott of Home Depot, citing alleged cooperation with immigration authorities.
Home Depot stated they do not coordinate with ICE or Border Patrol regarding immigration enforcement.
The boycott also targets Target and Amazon for other reasons related to the current U.S. administration.
The boycott campaign aims to pressure companies financially and highlights issues such as corporate accountability.
Immigration raids have reportedly increased under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Home Depot locations have been mentioned as sites of interest for immigration enforcement activities.
The group running the boycott plans to continue actions from November 27 to December 1, 2023.
The article discusses the role of monopoly utilities in the U.S. energy market and how they could impact the growth of renewable energy sources. It suggests that allowing utilities to control power generation can hinder competition and innovation in the energy sector. The article argues for a competitive energy market that encourages renewable innovation and consumer choice.
Key Facts
Renewables make up over 90% of new power generation added in the U.S. this year.
Utilities with monopoly control can limit competition and reduce the growth of renewables like solar and wind.
Monopoly utilities control the market by owning power lines, customers, and some power plants.
Renewables innovate by lowering costs and adjusting to local needs, offering consumers choices.
Utilities often shift costs to customers, claiming it's necessary for reliability.
Utility control over generation can lead to less consumer choice and manipulation of markets.
Challenges to reliability include outdated systems and underinvestment in grid flexibility, not a lack of utility-owned generation.
The article suggests a focus on open markets, fair competition, and oversight to protect consumer choices and support renewable energy growth.
The article discusses Eva Alexandridis, the founder of 111SKIN, and her approach to building a luxury beauty brand by focusing on patience and slow growth. Many new beauty brand founders chase quick growth, but Alexandridis believes in carefully developing the business and maintaining quality. She sees a trend toward sustainable beauty, similar to the fashion industry's shift from fast to slow fashion.
Key Facts
Eva Alexandridis founded the beauty brand 111SKIN.
She started the brand's first product in 2008 and initially kept it exclusive to her husband's clinic.
Alexandridis slowly expanded the brand before taking it to more retailers.
Today, 111SKIN earns tens of millions in global revenue.
Alexandridis notes a trend of "fast beauty" similar to "fast fashion."
She believes there is a growing consumer interest in quality over quick, cheap products.
More than half of consumers are open to buying cheaper alternative beauty products.
Many cosmetic products bought online from retailers like Amazon and TikTok Shop turn out to be counterfeit.
Medicare Part B premiums will go up by nearly 10% in 2026, marking the second-biggest increase in the program's history. This change will affect retirees' Social Security benefits, which are often used to pay these premiums. The increase may impact the cost-of-living adjustments for many beneficiaries.
Key Facts
Medicare Part B premiums are set to increase by $17.90, totaling $202.90 per month in 2026.
The 9.7% increase is the second-largest in the history of Medicare Part B.
Medicare Part B helps pay for outpatient medical services like doctor visits and lab tests.
This premium is usually taken out of retirees' Social Security checks.
Social Security benefits will rise by 2.8% in 2026, but the Medicare premium hike will reduce this increase.
For those with lower monthly benefits, a rule called the "hold harmless provision" may protect against higher costs if the premium increase is more than their Social Security raise.
The increase is due to expected changes in prices and usage of services, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
A former employee of Campbell Soup Company claims he was fired for reporting inappropriate behavior by a senior executive. The lawsuit alleges the executive mocked the company’s products, its customers, and Indian employees. The employee recorded the remarks and reported them before being allegedly terminated without disciplinary history.
Key Facts
Campbell Soup Company faces a lawsuit for employment discrimination and retaliation.
The lawsuit was filed by Robert Garza, a former security analyst, against Campbell Soup and his supervisor.
The lawsuit involves a recorded meeting where an executive allegedly criticized products and made racially offensive remarks.
The executive allegedly admitted to working after using marijuana edibles.
Garza reported the remarks in January 2025 and was fired around 20 days later.
Garza had no history of disciplinary action before being terminated.
Finding new employment was difficult for Garza after his termination.
The lawsuit claims a racially hostile work environment and retaliation against Garza.
The U.S. housing market is expected to undergo significant changes due to a demographic shift where deaths may outnumber births by 2033. This change could lead to more homes on the market and less demand, affecting home prices and the types of homes people want. Experts suggest this shift could make buying a home more affordable, as fewer people seek large family homes.
Key Facts
By 2032-33, deaths in the U.S. may surpass births, potentially reducing homebuyer demand.
The U.S. population growth rate is expected to slow over the next 30 years.
The housing market has faced a chronic shortage of homes for decades.
Rising home costs have made it hard for younger generations to buy homes.
More homes may become available as the Baby Boomer generation ages.
This demographic change could lead to lower home prices over time.
There may be increased demand for smaller homes instead of large family homes.
The impact of demographic shifts will vary by state, with some feeling changes sooner.
A report found that the UK is the most expensive place in the world to build nuclear power plants due to complex regulations. The report suggests simplifying these rules could save money and improve the industry. The UK plans to increase its nuclear power to meet future energy needs and environmental goals.
Key Facts
The UK is identified as the most expensive country for nuclear power plant construction.
A government-commissioned report calls for simplified nuclear industry regulations.
Current regulations are seen as overly complicated, leading to increased costs.
Simplifying rules could potentially save the UK "tens of billions" of pounds.
The report describes the current regulatory system as fragmented and risk-averse.
The UK government aims to expand nuclear power to meet energy and environmental targets.
Britain's existing nuclear plants account for 15% of its electricity as of 2024.
New nuclear projects, such as Hinkley Point C and Sizewell C, are underway but years from completion.
UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to outline changes in the Budget, including potential tax increases and spending plans. The Budget might involve new tax policies affecting pensions, university fees, and high-value properties. Businesses have expressed concern over these potential changes.
Key Facts
Rachel Reeves is the UK Chancellor preparing to announce the Budget.
Leaks about the Budget have reportedly caused uncertainty among businesses and consumers.
Pensioners may pay more taxes if income tax thresholds remain unchanged until 2030.
There is a proposal to increase fees for international students to aid British students.
The Budget may include £15 billion in extra welfare spending.
Changes to property taxes may affect owners of properties worth £2 million or more.
Business leaders warn of the negative impact of increasing taxes on economic growth.
US efforts to mediate peace between Ukraine and Russia are also noted in the broader news context.
The third phase of the UK's Covid-19 Inquiry is examining the financial measures taken to support workers and businesses during the pandemic. This includes the furlough scheme, business loans, and how well these initiatives were designed and executed. The inquiry aims to learn from these actions to better handle future pandemics.
Key Facts
The inquiry focuses on financial support provided during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The UK government and regional administrations spent £140 billion to support businesses and workers.
The furlough scheme supported 11.7 million jobs, costing £70 billion.
Self-employed individuals and businesses received additional support through various schemes.
The inquiry will look into safeguards against fraud and whether support delayed labor market adjustments.
Public services and community sectors also received additional funding during the lockdowns.
Notable figures expected to testify include former officials and experts in economic policy.
The inquiry seeks to extract lessons for managing future pandemics.
Businesses are anxious about the upcoming Budget due to previous tax increases and economic pressures. There is speculation about further tax hikes, but also potential relief measures like business rate reforms and energy bill consultations. The government aims to boost growth with a new Planning and Infrastructure Bill and other initiatives.
Key Facts
Businesses experienced a £25 billion National Insurance hike and rise in the minimum wage last year.
Research predicts the new Budget could reduce GDP by 0.2% in 2026.
The Bank of England might lower interest rates to encourage spending.
Business rates, which nearly doubled for some firms, might see reform.
The government may initiate a consultation to lower energy bills for 7,000 businesses.
A Planning and Infrastructure Bill is being prepared to promote growth.
There's uncertainty around potential new taxes on bank profits.
The oil and gas industry is pushing for relief from additional taxes on their profits.
President Donald Trump expressed concerns about a possible merger between Nexstar Media Group and Tegna. The merger could increase the reach of networks that have criticized him. The merger, subject to approval by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), would make Nexstar a major owner of local TV stations in the U.S.
Key Facts
President Trump is worried the Nexstar-Tegna merger could extend the influence of networks like NBC and ABC.
Nexstar announced plans to buy Tegna for about $6.2 billion in August 2025.
Tegna shareholders recently approved the merger.
The merger could give Nexstar control over 265 TV stations in 44 states, reaching about 80% of U.S. TV households.
Trump's comments about the merger were shared on Truth Social.
The merger needs FCC approval to proceed.
FCC Chair Brendan Carr has shown willingness to influence broadcaster decisions in the past.
ABC faced a backlash for suspending a TV host, leading to his reinstatement.
The BBC's Newscast discusses the upcoming government budget in the UK. Experts, including a former chancellor, debate what economic policies could be announced by Rachel Reeves. The discussion focuses on the potential political challenges for the government surrounding this budget.
Key Facts
The discussion is about the UK's upcoming government budget announcement.
Financial experts are speaking about the expected budget policies.
Rachel Reeves is the person expected to announce these policies on Wednesday.
Experts include former Conservative Chancellor Jeremy Hunt and others.
The program examines the political risk the budget poses for the government.
The budget announcement and its impacts are being analyzed on the BBC's Newscast program.
The show is available on BBC Sounds and smart speakers.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander stated that recent Budget leaks have not harmed the economy, despite claims by former Bank of England economist Andy Haldane. Haldane criticized the leaks for causing uncertainty among businesses and consumers. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to present her Budget with possible tax adjustments, focusing on cost-of-living measures.
Key Facts
Heidi Alexander, Transport Secretary, denied that Budget leaks damaged the economy.
Former Bank of England economist Andy Haldane said leaks caused uncertainty for businesses and consumers.
Media reports speculated on possible tax increases before the Budget announcement.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is expected to announce tax changes to fill a budget gap.
The government considered raising income tax rates but backed down after better economic forecasts.
There is concern over leaked Budget information affecting financial markets and public trust.
The government plans to freeze rail fares in England and may scrap the two-child benefit cap.
Calls for an investigation into pre-Budget leaks have been made by the Conservative Party.
A Renaissance painting discovered under a garage workbench sold for £685,000 at an auction in Banbury. The painting, believed to be by artist Pietro Vannucci (Perugino), set a new record for the auction house.
Key Facts
A Renaissance painting was found hidden under a garage workbench.
It sold for £685,000 at JS Fine Art auctioneers in Banbury.
The painting depicts the Madonna and Child.
It is believed to be by Pietro Vannucci, known as Perugino, a famous Renaissance artist.
The painting was bought by a private collector whose identity is not disclosed.
The sale set a new record for the auction house, breaking the previous record of £265,000.
Perugino was known for his influence during the Italian Renaissance and worked on the Sistine Chapel in Rome.
