David Lidsky's Blog, page 26

Refi boomlet starts in housing market as mortgage rates slide from highs

The Mortgage Refinance Index just hit its highest level since March 2022.

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Charting progress on inclusivity despite corporate America’s retreat from DEI policies

Speaking at the Fast Company Innovation Festival last week, leaders in inclusivity said many remain as committed to the cause as ever.

While dozens of companies have suddenly retreated from DEI efforts this year, leaders in inclusivity say there’s reason to be hopeful that this work is continuing—albeit more quietly than before.

Disney curiously hikes streaming prices before the dust has even settled

Still reeling from boycott efforts in the wake of ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel controversy, the entertainment giant is asking for a little more money.

The Walt Disney Co. continues to find itself in a crossfire, with Republicans taking shots from the right and Democrats landing blows from the left.

Gen Z is deep in ‘financial nihilism’: Why young people are betting big on stocks and crypto

It’s no secret that Gen Z has a less optimistic economic outlook and a different take on investing than older generations.

It’s no secret that Gen Z has a less optimistic economic outlook than older generations. So it’s no wonder many of them are engaging in so-called financial nihilism, applying a gloomy outlook to their financial mindset, resulting in a new and different take on investing.

AI tools aren’t making much of a difference for companies

Chat GPT, Copilot, and their competitors are boosting productivity without moving the needle on profit and loss.

These days, investors, founders, analysts, and tech loyalists can’t stop talking up how artificial intelligence will radically remake the future of work. But a new study suggests that while AI might have some amazing future uses, at the moment, it’s not doing much good to anyone.

Robot umpires approved for MLB challenges in 2026

Adding the automated electronic system is likely to cut down on ejections.

Robot umpires are getting called up to the big leagues next season.

Build-A-Bear shares continue to climb—even with tariffs and struggling mall traffic

The toy company is still not entirely immune to macroeconomic pressures, but its profits have soared to record after record in recent quarters.

Tariffs and years of teetering mall traffic have roiled much of the toy industry. But Build-A-Bear investors are continuing to reap sizable gains.

Poppi soda’s $8.9 million settlement: Customers can claim payouts—but the deadline is this week. Here’s how to file

Poppi recently settled a class-action lawsuit arguing that the prebiotic soda’s ‘gut healthy’ marketing was misleading.

The deadline to submit a claim in Poppi soda’s $8.9 million class-action lawsuit is quickly approaching.

Why brands are playing a bizarre game of matchmaking

Experts say unexpected partnerships deliver short-term attention—but consumer fatigue sets in fast.

Brand partnerships used to mean  a co-branded sneaker drop or a limited-edition snack flavor. Now, they’re getting stranger—and more viral. Soda-and-cookie mash-ups, beer-infused soups, and hot honey beans have all hit store shelves in recent months, sparking a mix of curiosity, confusion, and clicks.

Did Amazon trick people into joining Prime?

A trial starting this week in Seattle will shed light on the company’s popular loyalty program.