• OpenAI said its Dots agents will initially be available through its premium plans.
• Sarah Friar said OpenAI eventually wants to bring the agents to its 1.2 billion consumer users.
• ChatGPT's new Pro 500 plan could cost a fully subscribed user $6,000 a year.

For those who want to access more of ChatGPT but simply find the current price points too high, OpenAI has good news.

Chief financial officer Sarah Friar told CNBC in a live interview on Tuesday that Dots, OpenAI’s new agent system, will initially be available through its Pro, Business, and Enterprise offerings, but the company wants them to reach its entire consumer audience.

“For the business, you're going to see it show up inside our pro SKUs and then inside of our business enterprise offerings for now," Friar said. "But absolutely our vision is to bring this to our whole consumer base as well, 1.2 billion people around the world.”

Friar described Dots as a step toward AI that actively helps people manage their lives.

“Dots is now productivity. It's the agent that can tap you on the shoulder and remind you that you forgot to do that LinkedIn post for tomorrow,” Friar said. "So it can go to your email, it can go to your calendar, it can go to your Slack or wherever you work.”

CEO Sam Altman echoed the broader ambition during a question-and-answer session at OpenAI’s DevDay on Tuesday, saying that Dots is "starting out" as a premium product.

"I think there are very good reasons for that, and I think it will help us understand and help people understand how expensive what AI can do," Altman said.

“But you should, of course, expect us to do a mass market thing for billions of people,” Altman added.

Neither executive gave a timetable or price for that wider rollout. For now, Dots will be available through OpenAI's expanding premium subscription lineup. OpenAI announced Pro 500, a $500-a-month ChatGPT plan that totals $6,000 a year, with its highest usage allowance.

The plan includes “Ultrafast” computing for GPT-6 Astra in ChatGPT Work and Codex, which OpenAI says delivers up to an eightfold increase in speed. OpenAI said it also reopened its $200-a-month Pro plan while halving its compute allowance. Subscribers now get 10 times the allowance of the $20-a-month Plus plan, down from 20 times.

Friar doesn't think the price point would deter subscribers.

"A year ago, two years ago, when we launched our $200 SKU, people thought we'd lost our minds. No one's ever going to spend that per month. I heard that over and over again," Friar said. "And now, actually, what we see is not only are people willing to spend more, they're actually moving more towards consumption in consumers."

• An NYC judge ruled that the rollout of New York's tax on wealthy second-home owners needs to be redone.
• NYC homeowners sued the city in August, calling the tax rollout confusing and a privacy violation.
• A Staten Island judge said a list of hundreds of thousands of properties in the city must be taken down.

New York City's pied-à-terre tax on luxury second homes has hit a roadblock over the publication of a list of hundreds of thousands of residences in the city.

A Staten Island judge ruled Tuesday that the previously published list of New York City residences should be removed. Instead, the Department of Finance, or DOF, may replace that lengthy list of residences with a roll showing properties actually subject to the tax. Further, mailed tax notices to homeowners who were potentially facing the tax are to be canceled and replaced with notifications to the properties actually affected.

"No crime is involved here, but homeowners are being substantially harmed and penalized needlessly by DOF's method of implementing the Tax Law," Justice Wayne M. Ozzi wrote.

The ruling came after a group of New York homeowners sued over the rollout of the tax, which they say caused "mass confusion" and "facilitated, invited, and amplified unwanted scrutiny of homeowners' personal information." That controversial rollout is what Ozzi targeted in his ruling, with the judge saying that mailed notices "irresponsibly and unnecessarily caused homeowners to expend time and money," and that the DOF "unfairly shifted the burden to thousands of homeowners to prove their basic residency."

Matt Rauschenbach, a spokesperson for the mayor, said in a statement that "the ultra-wealthy are fighting in court to avoid paying their fair share."

"Today's decision is wrong, and we will invoke a stay of the injunction," Rauschenbach said. "With a stay, we will continue implementing the surcharge fairly, efficiently and in full compliance with the law, as we have since day one."

The pied-à-terre tax launched an NYC legal saga

Today's ruling builds on a fiery legal back-and-forth over the pied-à-terre tax. The city's Department of Finance sent 17,000 letters to homeowners who could be on the hook for the tax in late July. The DOF also published 900,000 addresses, homeowner names, and property values.

A judge temporarily blocked the further rollout of the tax on August 10, ordering the city to take down the list of addresses and halt any deadline enforcement. Homeowners previously had a deadline of September 18 to appeal their city-calculated property value or prove that the home is their primary residence.

The three NYC homeowners at the center of the suit — residents of Staten Island and Manhattan — said they were distressed by receiving letters and finding their names appeared on the public database.

Other New Yorkers took to social media or joined testimony at a recent City Council hearing to air concerns about the tax. Local lawmakers told Business Insider that they have been flooded with questions from constituents about the city's property list.

On top of Tuesday's ruling, a fresh suit against the tax brought on Monday by Florida-based New York property owners — former Secretary of Commerce Wilbur Ross Jr., his wife Hilary, and businessman Stephen Wynn — argues that the tax is unconstitutional both in New York and federally.

The Mayor's Office said the tax will raise $500 million annually to support Mamdani's affordability agenda. The administration hired two dozen additional staffers to handle appeals and residents' questions about the rollout.

The tax itself will be progressive, applying to non-primary homes valued by the DOF at least $5 million and condos and co-ops valued at least $1 million. The surcharge begins at 0.8% and increases to 1.3% for properties valued at $25 million or more.

Per Business Insider's math, Citadel CEO and Miami resident Ken Griffin is set to shell out between $1.3 million and $1.4 million for his Central Park South apartment. Celebrities and billionaires like Donald Trump, Jeff Bezos, Jay-Z, and Beyoncé are also likely to be subject to the levy.

Attorneys and real estate agents who spoke with reporter James Rodriguez said the tax leaves high-net-worth homeowners with few options for workarounds. Unless they have an immediate family member move into the address, or can successfully prove their property is worth less than the city's estimation, wealthy quasi-New Yorkers shouldn't bank on an exemption.

Now, unless the city successfully argues for a stay, it might have to go back to the drawing board on the tax's rollout.

• Workday is letting go about 500 employees, marking its second round of layoffs this year.
• The cuts mainly target the company's product and technology team as it realigns for growth.
• The software-as-a-service company also lowered its fiscal Q3 outlook.

Workday is conducting layoffs for the second time this year, this time affecting around 500 workers. It also trimmed its fiscal third-quarter earnings forecast.

The software-as-a-service giant said in a securities filing Tuesday that it's cutting approximately 2.5% of its workforce, mainly within its product and technology team, to "better align team structures with Workday's strategic growth priorities."

The company, which had over 21,000 employees at the end of January, said it plans to continue hiring in strategic areas and locations throughout fiscal 2027.

Workday shares are down about 12% year to date.

The company previously laid off about 400 employees in February, and about a week later, its then-CEO, Carl Eschenbach, left his post. He was succeeded by Workday cofounder and executive chair Aneel Bhusri, who had held the top job three times before.

In both layoff announcements, Workday didn't cite AI as a catalyst, though the technology soured investors' appetite for the company and other enterprise software vendors earlier this year. That is when the so-called SaaSpocalypse erased hundreds of billions of dollars from their market values over concerns that AI could make it cheaper for businesses to build software rather than buy it.

Bhusri has nonetheless remained bullish on his company's prospects. "Last quarter, I told you I hadn't met a single customer looking to replace Workday with something they're building internally or buying from a startup. One quarter later, that hasn't changed," he said on an earnings call with analysts in August.

Workday also said on Tuesday that restructuring charges stemming from the latest round of layoffs will reduce its fiscal 2027 third-quarter and full-year operating margins.

The MLB Wild Card games are officially underway, and an iconic rivalry has been reignited in the American League East. We've rounded up everything you need to know about how to watch the Red Sox vs. Yankees, including channels and live streaming options.

If you don't want to scroll any further, we've got you covered. You can live stream the Red Sox vs. Yankees on NBC via Peacock in the US. You can access your streaming options from anywhere with a VPN, like NordVPN. Keep reading to learn additional streaming options and details about the series.

*Wild Card games are a best-of-three series, so Game 3 will only take place if necessary.

What channel are the Red Sox vs. Yankees games on?

The Red Sox vs. Yankees Wild Card series will air on NBC in the United States. All of the games will air on the network.

How to watch Red Sox vs. Yankees in the US

Cord-cutters have a few options for live streaming games. The cheapest and most direct way is through Peacock, NBCUniversal's direct streaming counterpart. The Wild Card games are available in both the Peacock Premium and Peacock Premium Plus tiers. Subscriptions start at $13 a month for Premium, but the $20 a month Premium Plus option will unlock ad-free on-demand streaming and a full NBC live stream.

If you'd prefer something with a free trial and other channels beyond just NBC, then live TV services like YouTube TV and Fubo might be of interest.

YouTube TV carries NBC and 100+ other channels in its Main plan, which usually costs $83 a month. However, a limited-time deal will knock your first five months down to $68 a month. YouTube TV also offers a Sports plan, which carries NBC and 30+ other channels in its lineup. Subscriptions cost $65 a month, but new users can get $20 a month off their first six months with a limited-time deal. The plans also offer free trials for new customers.

Fubo carries NBC in several of its sports-friendly plans. The Pro plan costs $89 a month for 200+ channels, but new users can get $25 off their first month after a free trial. The platform ranks among the best live TV streaming services we've tested.

How to watch Red Sox vs. Yankees from anywhere

Baseball fans traveling abroad can still keep up with their usual streaming options with the help of a VPN, or virtual private network. VPNs are handy tech tools that let people temporarily change the virtual location on their electronic devices. This way, their favorite websites and apps work from anywhere — just like they would back home. The services we've highlighted require US payment methods, so this option will work best for Americans who are just traveling away from home right now.

NordVPN is our top recommendation for the best VPNs. It's user-friendly and offers a massive selection of global servers. Plus, it comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

• See also: Where to watch the WNBA Playoffs | How to watch NFL games | How to watch college football games

Who is favored to win Red Sox vs. Yankees?

The Yankees are favored to win the first game of the Wild Card series. According to DraftKings (at the time of writing), the Yankees are -140 on the moneyline, while the Red Sox are +116.

Where is the Red Sox vs. Yankees series held?

The New York Yankees will host all of the Wild Card games at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx.

When did the Red Sox and Yankees last play?

The Red Sox and Yankees last played each other on August 30, 2026. The Yankees walloped the Red Sox 16-1, marking the third win for New York in a four-game series against Boston.

Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

Protecting your feline's health begins with the best flea and tick treatments for cats. During my eight years as a veterinary assistant in animal hospitals, I helped treat hundreds of cats with fleas.

I saw how severe flea infestations can cause painful skin damage, allergic reactions, and even anemia from blood loss. Fleas can also transmit parasites, such as tapeworms, and spread diseases that can harm both pets and people. Thankfully, veterinarian-approved flea treatments are safe and effective, and many also protect against parasites such as ticks, worms, and lice.

Before you give your cat any flea treatment, it's important to talk to your veterinarian. They can help you choose the best medication based on your cat's temperament, lifestyle, and the specific parasites most common in your area. It's critical to never use a product labeled only for dogs on your cat. These products can make cats seriously ill, and, in some cases, can even be fatal.

How we selected the best flea and tick treatments for cats

To make my recommendations for this guide, I developed evaluation criteria that align with Business Insider's in-depth approach to assessing pet products. The products I considered are listed in the Quick Product Reference Guide from the independent, nonprofit Companion Animal Parasite Council. This resource includes all FDA- and EPA-approved parasite control products for small animals. It provides details on each product's active ingredients, usage directions, and parasites it controls.

Our top picks for the best flea and tick treatments for cats

Best topical overall

Revolution Plus Topical Solution is a prescription medicine that protects cats from a wide range of parasites. It kills adult fleas before they can lay eggs and prevents tapeworm infections by killing fleas before they can transmit them to your cat. It also prevents heartworms and treats and controls ear mites, roundworms, hookworms, and lone star, black-legged (deer), Gulf Coast, and American dog ticks.

Dr. Ashley Bourgeois, a board-certified veterinary dermatologist at Animal Dermatology Clinic, recommends Revolution Plus because its active ingredients (selamectin and sarolaner) are very effective and well-tolerated by cats. However, depending on where you live and your cat's lifestyle, your veterinarian might suggest an alternative, such as NexGard Combo.

Dr. Kelley Lay, a veterinarian in Nashville, Tennessee, has prescribed NexGard Combo and worked with pet owners already using it. The main differences between the two products lie in the number of tick species killed and tapeworm control. Revolution Plus kills four tick species and helps prevent tapeworm infections by eliminating fleas before they can transmit the parasite. NexGard Combo, on the other hand, kills two tick species but includes an ingredient that treats existing tapeworm infections.

"I like the active ingredients and, therefore, coverage of both, and I feel that both are highly effective at controlling fleas and ticks," Lay says. She finds Revolution Plus is more effective for tick control in areas with heavy tick populations. However, for outdoor cats with a history of flea infestations or frequent hunters who are more likely to get tapeworms, she may lean toward NexGard Combo.

Revolution Plus is easy to apply every 30 days directly to a cat's skin at the base of their neck between the shoulder blades. The liquid absorbs and dries quickly, leaving no residue. Unlike some topical preventives, there's no need to wear gloves during application, and you don't have to avoid touching your cat afterward. If you get it on your skin, simply wash it off with soap and water.

You'll need a prescription from your vet to purchase Revolution Plus, and it should be used with caution in cats with a history of neurological conditions, such as seizures.

Best OTC topical

I chose Frontline Plus as the best flea and tick treatment for cats without a vet prescription because it not only eliminates fleas and controls flea infestations, but it also kills four species of ticks (brown dog ticks, lone star ticks, deer ticks, and American dog ticks), as well as chewing lice. One application of this topical medicine provides protection for 30 days, and fleas don't need to bite your cat for it to work — fleas die on contact.

Frontline Plus contains two active ingredients that kill parasites and break the flea lifecycle: fipronil and S-methoprene. Fipronil kills adult fleas and ticks, while S-methoprene disrupts the flea cycle by preventing the development of eggs, larvae, and pupae. It may take a little time of consistent use to fully eliminate fleas, especially in heavy infestations, since flea eggs can still be present in your home after treatment, Bourgeois says.

Frontline Plus is easy to use. Just squeeze the contents of the tube onto a single spot on your cat's skin between the shoulder blades. The liquid medication spreads across your cat's skin and gets stored in their oil glands. It then self-distributes continuously through the hair follicles over the course of the month. 

Keep in mind that Frontline Plus does not treat worms. For that, you'll need one of the best cat dewormers.

Best fast-acting

Comfortis Chewable Tablets are fast-acting and good for cats that can't tolerate topical flea preventives. Spinosad, the active ingredient in Comfortis, starts to work within 30 minutes and kills 98% of adult fleas within four hours.

Topical flea control products are typically easier to use because there's no need to convince your cat to swallow a pill. However, there are some cases when an oral preventive is an ideal choice among the best flea treatments for cats. For instance, some cats with sensitive skin can't tolerate a spot-on treatment. "Comfortis is one of the ones I like," says Dr. Keith Harper, a veterinarian at Hayward Veterinary Hospital. "It's harder to get the cat to take an oral product, but if you can manage it, it's a pretty effective oral flea medication. It's strictly and solely for fleas."

Comfortis is one of three oral flea control products available for cats; the others are Capstar Flea Control Tablets and Credelio CAT. Unlike Capstar, which kills fleas for only 24 hours, Comfortis protects cats against fleas for an entire month. However, Comfortis is not safe for kittens younger than 14 weeks old, while Capstar is safe for kittens as young as 4 weeks old. Like Comfortis, Credelio kills fleas for 30 days but it takes a little longer to work — 6 hours to start killing adult fleas compared to just 30 minutes for Comfortis. However, Credelio also kills one species of tick (black-legged), so if your cat needs protection from ticks as well as fleas, Credelio might be a better choice.

Give your cat one of the beef-flavored tablets once a month. You can give them the tablet just before or after feeding your cat or hide it in a small amount of food. To purchase Comfortis, you will need a prescription from your veterinarian.

Best collar

Editor's note: In March 2021, USA Today and the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting published a report alleging that the Seresto flea collar was linked to thousands of adverse incidents in pets and humans. The EPA reviewed the safety of the Seresto collar, and the manufacturer, Elanco, agreed to implement measures to alert veterinarians and pet owners to potential risks, such as collar malfunctions that can result in strangulation. “For all other deaths, EPA did not identify cases with a probable or definite association between collar use and death, often due to other factors affecting the animal, such as an existing medical condition,” the release says, adding that the rate of deaths was similar to that found for other pet products it has reviewed.

Your veterinarian can provide additional safety guidance regarding the collar. If your pet has an adverse reaction, immediately remove the collar and call your veterinarian. Tim Carroll, EPA's press secretary, also advises pet owners to contact the  National Pesticide Information Center and report adverse reactions to the EPA. Purchase a Seresto collar only from a reputable online retailer, brick-and-mortar store with a guarantee program, or your veterinarian. Before placing the collar on your cat, call Elanco product support at 800-422-9874 to verify that the collar is authentic.

Flea collars used to be a standard recommendation for flea control, but they now take a back seat to topical and oral preventives, which are considered the best flea and tick treatments for cats. One notable exception is the Seresto Flea and Tick Collar. It uses patented sustained-release technology to provide eight months of continuous protection against adult fleas, flea larvae, and ticks. 

The Seresto Flea and Tick Collar contains imidacloprid and flumethrin, which are released in low concentrations over your cat's skin and coat to kill fleas on contact. The water-resistant collar kills 100% of fleas within 24 hours. It is nongreasy, odor-free, lightweight, and adjustable to fit cats of all sizes. Your cat can wear it alongside their existing collar. Additionally, the collar features a two-step safety system, allowing your cat to break free if it becomes caught on something.

While topical and oral treatments are the most convenient and effective options for flea control, there are times when the Seresto collar might be a suitable alternative. Dr. Colleen Sawyer, a veterinarian at Rolesville Veterinary Hospital, says the collar may be a good choice for people who tend to forget to give monthly treatments. She also likes it for cats who can't tolerate topical flea products and resist taking pills. Bourgeois says the Seresto collar might also be a good option for outdoor cats who roam often and may not be seen consistently by their owners

Best for young kittens

Capstar is the only flea control medicine that's safe for kittens as young as 4 weeks old and weighing at least 2 pounds — and it's available without a prescription. Other oral and topical flea control products can only be used to treat kittens who are at least 8 weeks old, and sometimes even older.

When dealing with a severe flea infestation, especially in young kittens, it's important to eliminate fleas as fast as possible. Capstar's active ingredient, nitenpyram, starts working within 30 minutes and can kill more than 90% of adult fleas in as little as six hours.

While Capstar works quickly, it only protects against fleas for 24 hours. However, it is safe to give daily if necessary. Since giving your cat a pill every day can be inconvenient, it's important to follow up with a long-term flea control product once your cat is old enough.

Our top picks compared

What to look for in flea and tick treatments and preventives for cats

When choosing the best flea and tick treatments and preventives for cats, you can use the same criteria I relied on to make my recommendations for this guide. However, be sure to consult your veterinarian before starting any treatment.

Safety and efficacy: Any flea and tick medicine for cats should be approved by either the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To verify FDA approval, you can search the Animal Drugs @ FDA database. For products that regulated by the FDA, you'll want to check the EPA's Pesticide Product and Label System, which oversees certain flea and tick treatments that contain pesticides.

Number of parasites treated: Flea preventives that protect against multiple parasites are especially valuable. In general, the more parasites a product covers, the higher I rated it. The exceptions in my recommendations are Capstar, which is the only treatment safe for kittens under 8 weeks old, and Frontline Plus, which targets fleas, ticks, and lice and can be purchased without a prescription.

Ease of use: Look for a product that is easy to use. When comparing similar options, the easier one to use is often your best bet. For example, I rated products lower if they require gloves during application or if children and other pets need to be kept away from the treated cat for a period of time.

Minimum age and weight: Flea medications are only safe for cats that meet certain age and weight requirements. Because of this, treatment options for very young kittens are limited.

Prescription vs. OTC: Some flea control products are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from your veterinarian. Prescription flea control products are usually more expensive than OTC options because they protect against more parasites — most importantly, deadly heartworms. 

There is no treatment for cats with adult heartworms, and once infected, they will eventually die from the infection. That's why veterinarians recommend year-round heartworm prevention for all cats, regardless of whether they live indoors or outdoors. They also advise year-round protection against intestinal parasites. For these reasons, prescription flea control products that prevent heartworms and other parasites are the best choice. The more parasites a single treatment can prevent, the better off your cat will be. 

Prescription medications can be purchased directly from your veterinarian or through online retailers such as Chewy, Petco, and Petsmart.

Types of flea and tick medications: There are several types of flea and tick medications for cats, including topical treatments, oral medications, collars, shampoos, and sprays. These vary in cost, convenience, ease of use, and effectiveness. Your veterinarian can help you decide which option is best for your cat.

• Topical preventives, often called "spot-on," kill fleas and prevent flea infestations.
• Oral flea control products, or "flea pills," are given to a cat by mouth to kill fleas and prevent fleas. 
• Flea collars deliver medication to a cat's skin and coat. 
• Flea sprays are applied to the skin and coat. My experts do not recommend them because topical and oral products are more effective. 
• Flea shampoos kill fleas that are present on your cat, but topical and oral flea control products are much more effective. Some flea shampoos are even harmful to cats, as they often contain pyrethrins. "Nowadays, flea shampoos are rarely, if ever, needed because the topical and oral flea products are much more effective and safer," Sawyer says. "For flea-infested animals, we typically give a fast-acting oral product such as nitenpyram [Capstar] and follow with a bath in Dawn dish detergent or another mild cat shampoo. You can use a flea comb to assist in removing dead fleas and flea dirt [flea feces]."

Natural vs. synthetic: The veterinarians I consulted do not recommend natural flea control products, as they are far less effective than topical and oral flea control products. "They are just not proven to be really effective," Bourgeois says. "My biggest concern with natural products is, even if they're safe, if they're not effective, that's not helping our pets." If you're considering using natural flea remedies that contain essential oils, be cautious because some essential oils are toxic to cats.

Meet the expert behind this guide

Jackie Brown, pet expert: I've spent my career dedicated to understanding pets' health and well-being, from eight years working as a veterinary assistant in an animal hospital to more than two decades writing and editing about animal health, nutrition, and behavior. For this guide on the best flea and tick treatments for cats, I drew from on hands-on experience treating cats for fleas and other parasites, consulted veterinarians for clinical insights, and evaluated products using the Companion Animal Parasite Council's Quick Product Reference Guide.

Cat flea and tick treatment FAQs

Which flea treatment do vets recommend for cats?

Veterinarians say prescription flea preventives for cats are the gold standard for killing fleas and preventing further flea infestations. "Products like Revolution Plus or NexGard Combo provide broad protection against fleas, ticks, ear mites, and even heartworm disease," says Dr. Colleen Lambo, a relief veterinarian with Roo.

It's essential to use only flea products specifically labeled for cats because flea treatments for dogs can be fatal to cats. Always double-check labels, especially when using over-the-counter flea treatments, and follow the instructions exactly. If you're also treating family dogs for fleas, keep them separated until the product has fully dried.

Some pet parents prefer "natural" flea control products to avoid chemicals, but natural doesn't automatically mean safe. For instance, cats are highly sensitive to essential oils, which are common in natural pest control products. "Certain 'natural' or essential oil products can cause serious toxicity, seizures, or liver failure," Lambo says. "When veterinary-approved options are available, they are both safer and far more effective."

What is the most effective cat flea treatment?

Veterinarians say topical and oral flea treatments are the most effective and easiest to use. The right flea control product for your cat depends on several factors, including their age, weight, and any preexisting health conditions. Topical products are excellent for both killing fleas and preventing flea infestations. They are typically applied to the skin in a single spot on the back of the neck once a month, and then spread across the entire body as they dry, leaving no residue. Oral flea control medicines are given by mouth to kill fleas. Some pills kill fleas for up to a month, while others need to be given more frequently to continue killing fleas, as often as daily.

Is Frontline or Advantage a better flea treatment for cats?

Frontline and Advantage both make two different topical flea treatments. Frontline Plus, Frontline Gold, and Advantage II are available over the counter, while Advantage Multi requires a prescription from your veterinarian. Frontline Plus is my recommendation for an OTC treatment: It kills fleas at all life stages and also protects against chewing lice and ticks. Frontline Gold protects against the same parasites as Plus, but it works faster and is significantly more expensive. Advantage II lost out to Frontline Plus because it does not kill ticks and may require more frequent use in severe infestations. Advantage Multi does not kill ticks, but it prevents heartworms and treats and controls roundworms, hookworms, and ear mites. However, Revolution Plus is my top pick for treating worms, fleas, and ticks due to its easier application.

How can you tell if your cat has fleas?

While outdoor cats are at higher risk of picking up fleas, indoor cats can still get fleas from trips to the veterinarian, a boarding facility, or when the family dog has them. Fleas can even be carried inside on your clothes or shoes. Signs of fleas in cats include scratching, irritated skin, and the presence of dark red or black specks on your cat's skin or fur, bedding, or furniture. These specks, about the size of grains of ground black pepper, are called "flea dirt" and are flea feces (or digested blood). To check your cat for fleas or flea dirt, run a flea comb through their coat or part their hair with your fingers to examine the skin. If you find live or dead fleas or flea dirt, your cat has a flea infestation.

How do you get rid of fleas for cats without going to the vet?

You can get rid of fleas without going to the vet by using a veterinarian-approved flea control product on your cat and also treating your home for fleas to stop the flea life cycle. Choose a safe, effective flea control product that both kills the adult fleas and prevents new eggs from hatching, and use it consistently year-round.

"Even if you can't get to a vet in person, most clinics can recommend or prescribe the right treatment remotely," Lambo says. "It's always safer to go with a vet-approved product than to gamble on unregulated remedies."

She pointed out that fleas spend most of their time in the environment rather than on your cat. This is why treating your home is just as important as treating your pet. To get on top of fleas in your home, vacuum your carpets and upholstered furniture daily initially to remove as many fleas and flea eggs as you can. Wash all bedding in the house (your cat's and yours) in hot water and dry it on the highest heat setting in the dryer.

"Fleas have a long life cycle, so it can take weeks or even months of consistent effort to fully clear an infestation," Lambo says. If, despite your best efforts, you're still seeing fleas in your home or on your pet, consult with both your vet and a professional extermination service.

What do you do if you find a tick on your cat?

If you find a tick on your cat, remove it as quickly as you can. You can do this at home if your cat allows it. Use fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick close to the skin, and pull it straight out, says Dr. Holly Dutton, medical director and an emergency veterinarian at VEG ER for Pets in Tampa, Florida. Don't attempt any home remedies, such as burning the tick or trying to suffocate it with rubbing alcohol — these can cause the tick to release more saliva and pathogens into your cat.

"After removal, monitor your cat for signs of illness such as fever, lethargy, or decreased appetite, and contact your veterinarian if you're unsure how long the tick was attached or if your cat seems unwell," Dutton says. If you're worried the head might still be in your cat's skin, schedule a vet appointment so they can safely remove it. You should also ask your vet for a recommendation for safe and effective tick prevention to prevent new tick bites.

Why are some flea products dangerous to cats?

Never use a product on a cat if it is labeled only for dogs. Some ingredients that are well-tolerated by dogs can be toxic to cats. "Anything with a permethrin, also known as pyrethrin, should never be used on a cat," Sawyer says. "[Cats] are very sensitive to pyrethrins and can have significant neurologic side effects, even death. Never use a product labeled for a dog on a cat as it may have pyrethrins in it even if not exclusively mentioned on the label."  

• OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has a three-part plan for the company.
• At Tuesday's DevDay keynote, Altman outlined the "models, building, and distribution" approach.
• ChatGPT now has 1.2 billion weekly users, and Altman is ramping up its ambitions.

Sam Altman laid out OpenAI's three-step vision for business dominance.

The CEO revealed a slew of updates to ChatGPT and related company products at its developer conference in San Francisco on Tuesday. He also outlined a three-part plan: provide the best AI models, make them the easiest for developers to build on, and become a "marketplace" for business customers to reach one another.

Altman's framing speaks to the vast growth the AI company has seen since it burst into the limelight with ChatGPT — and the pressure that OpenAI and rival Anthropic face to justify their lofty valuations with ambitious business plans.

The first step is "models," then "building," then "distribution," Altman told a crowd of developers and employees at the Fort Mason venue.

"We want to support you all with a powerful platform for building whatever you can dream of," he said.

OpenAI's models come first

OpenAI started as a research lab before AI caught Silicon Valley's attention. The company now faces a whole slew of competitors in model research. Anthropic, Meta, Google, and SpaceXAI fight for improvements, while Chinese competitors nip at OpenAI's heels with cheap offerings.

OpenAI still spends most of its computing power on research. Altman announced a new model on Tuesday dubbed GPT-6.1 Sol, which he framed as an affordable alternative to its latest Astra model. He also announced access to Ultrafast, a markedly more expensive, faster way to access OpenAI models.

"Our goal is to give you the best combination of intelligence and capability at every price point in the whole market," Altman said.

That's a tall order and sticks OpenAI in a long-term fight. Both Anthropic and other AI model companies will continue to boost their capabilities and fight on price.

OpenAI launched new ways to access its models' power

Altman then launched into his next phase: building.

"We want you to have the same tools we use inside OpenAI," the CEO said.

He announced that the company had added its Codex AI coding tool to the cloud, allowing developers to use it across devices. Then he revealed an application programming interface, or API, that customers can use to build agents.

Another new API, meant for rapid decision-making, got a big round of applause from the crowd. Jev, the viral model from the startup TypeSafe AI, does something similar.

"We want to be a one-stop shop for you to build," Altman told developers.

OpenAI wants to become a 'marketplace'

OpenAI has a valuable asset: a huge user base. More than 1.2 billion people use ChatGPT every week, the company said Tuesday.

It's also become a go-to place for other businesses to plug in, hoping to snag users or integrate their current users with the company's AI tech. OpenAI is now ratcheting up its role as a go-between.

Altman said that business customers can now use part of their existing OpenAI commitments toward buying its partners' products. Users can also "Sign in with ChatGPT" on other AI products to use part of their own token allotments.

Business Insider asked Altman about these ambitions during a Q&A after his keynote. The CEO said he sees the cloud computing providers as a good example of how to assist the wider ecosystem and that he'd like OpenAI to become a place to route demand and connect customers.

"We want to figure out how to put this everywhere and drive people, revenue, and customers, and help people create these new things and make the most robust, richest ecosystem we can," Altman said.

Have a tip? Contact this reporter via email at scouncil@businessinsider.com, or over text, Signal, Telegram, or WhatsApp at 415-757-8198. Use a personal email address, a nonwork WiFi network, and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

Apple's AirPods are great headphones for anyone who uses an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. They pair quickly with Apple devices, sound good, and come in sleek designs that have become instantly recognizable. But Apple's lineup has grown, and the best AirPods for your needs depend on whether you prioritize powerful noise cancellation, an open fit, or simply keeping the price down. My team of audio reviewers has spent hours testing every current model to help make that choice easier.

The AirPods Pro 3 are the best AirPods for most people. Apple's most advanced earbuds combine strong active noise cancellation (ANC) with a secure in-ear fit and heart rate tracking for workouts. But if you want more affordable earbuds, the standard AirPods 4 are the cheapest option available. They're an older model that lacks ANC, but they still offer solid performance and remain in stock for around $99.

Below, you'll find our hands-on breakdown of every current AirPods model, including what each pair does best and who should consider it. Whether you want earbuds for commuting, exercise, or casual listening, this guide can help you find the best AirPods for your budget.

Our top picks for the best AirPods

Best overall: AirPods Pro 3 - See at Amazon

Best for an open fit: AirPods 5 w/ wireless charging case - See at Amazon

Best on a budget: AirPods 4 without ANC - See at Walmart

Best for audiophiles: AirPods Max 2 - See at Amazon

Best overall

The AirPods Pro 3 are Apple's flagship wireless earbuds, and they're our pick for the best AirPods overall. This model offers a few improvements over the older AirPods Pro 2, including stronger noise cancellation, longer battery life, better water resistance, and new heart rate tracking. In nearly every way, the AirPods Pro 3 beat their predecessor and aced our tests.

Although they use the same custom driver as the Pro 2, Apple has refined the design for improved airflow. This results in a wider soundstage and deeper bass. Apple claims the Pro 3's active noise cancellation (ANC) is twice as powerful as before, and our testing confirmed a clear boost. They effectively block engine hum, vacuums, and subway noise — nearly matching the performance of our favorite noise-canceling earbuds, the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2.

Like the Pro 2, the AirPods Pro 3 have an in-ear design, but they have a slightly updated shape. You also get five ear-tip sizes, including a new XXS option. However, our reviewer actually preferred the old shape of the Pro 2, as it fit a bit more tightly against their ear. Ultimately, fit varies by ear shape, but most users should be able to get a good seal.

Built-in heart rate tracking is a standout feature that's not available on other AirPods. Each earbud has a sensor that measures your heart rate, providing helpful workout data when paired with an iPhone. This is a great perk for users who don't already own a fitness tracker, such as an Apple Watch. Water resistance also jumps from IP54 to IP57, meaning the AirPods Pro 3 can handle sweat and brief submersion. If you're looking for the best AirPods to use during workouts, the Pro 3 are the buds to get.

Battery life now reaches eight hours with ANC enabled (up from six hours on the Pro 2), although total battery life drops slightly to 24 hours with the case (down from 30 hours). We think the longer single charge is the better tradeoff, but this is something to keep in mind.

The AirPods Pro 3 retain all of the Pro 2's hearing health features, which you won't get on standard AirPods. There's also a Live Translation function (which requires an iPhone with Apple Intelligence). However, that feature is also supported on the AirPods 5, AirPods 4 with ANC, AirPods Pro 2, and AirPods Max 2.

Read our full Apple AirPods Pro 3 review.

Check out our guide to the best earbuds.

Best for an open fit

Apple's AirPods 5 are the brand's latest midrange earbuds. Unlike the Pro 3, they use a semi-open fit rather than an in-ear seal, which some find to be more comfortable. You can choose between two versions: one with a wired charging case for $129 and one with a wireless charging case for $149.

Both support active noise cancellation and have the same core audio performance and design, but the step-up model has a few perks that are well worth the extra $20. In addition to wireless charging, the $149 AirPods 5 support an extra hour of playtime, two extra hours of battery life from the case, and on-stem volume controls. Our reviewer is an especially big fan of that latter feature, which lets you swipe up and down on the earbuds' stems to adjust volume without taking out your phone. This feature used to be exclusive to Apple's AirPods Pro.

During testing, our reviewer was impressed by the AirPods 5's noise cancellation, which is noticeably improved over the previous-generation AirPods 4 with ANC. The pricier AirPods Pro 3, with their tighter in-ear seal, are still better at blocking out very loud distractions, such as an airplane engine, but the AirPods 5 set a new bar for ANC performance in open-fit earbuds.

Audio quality has also been improved over the AirPods 4 thanks to a revised acoustic architecture. Our reviewer noticed a tighter base response and an overall wider soundstage. Again, the more expensive AirPods Pro 3 still offer better sound performance, in part thanks to their in-ear seal, but the AirPods 5 are impressive for open-fit earbuds.

The AirPods Pro 3 do offer a few other perks that the 5s lack, like hearing health features and a heart rate sensor, but these are an excellent midrange alternative.

Read our full Apple AirPods 5 review.

Best on a budget

The standard AirPods 4 without ANC are the cheapest AirPods you can buy. Though they've technically been replaced by the newer AirPods 5, they're still in stock at several stores for around $99. That's $30 to $50 less than the AirPods 5, depending on which edition you're looking at.

Compared to those pricier AirPods, the main compromise here is the lack of noise cancellation. This entry-level model is missing ANC, so it can't block ambient sounds or pass them through in transparency mode. Additionally, this version features a wired charging case instead of a wireless one and lacks support for Siri AI and Live Translation.

While those limitations are important to keep in mind, the standard AirPods 4 still deliver the core AirPods experience and feature the same physical design as the newer AirPods 5. This means they have an open fit, so they won't create a plugged-in feel. And though less robust than step-up AirPods, the sound quality here is still very solid for this price range, with a clean, clear midrange.

Ultimately, the AirPods 4 without ANC are a good fit for casual listeners who don't want to pay more for noise cancellation or Apple Intelligence features. As long as this model remains in stock for at least $30 less than Apple's newer offerings, it remains a good value for budget shoppers.

Read our full AirPods 4 review (covers ANC and non-ANC versions).

Best for audiophiles

The AirPods Max 2 are Apple's latest over-ear headphones. While other AirPods use an earbud-style design, the Max 2 use large padded cups and a sturdy headband. This over-ear design delivers the most impressive sound quality and noise cancellation in Apple's lineup. They also feature a premium build with metal components, making them ideal for anyone who values high-end style over portability.

The first-generation AirPods Max launched in December 2020, and this second-generation model hit stores in April 2026. The AirPods Max 2 feature the same physical design but incorporate a few small enhancements under the hood. They use Apple's more advanced H2 chip to improve ANC and enable features like Adaptive Audio, Conversation Awareness, and Live Translation, which were missing from the original AirPods Max. Though owners of the first-gen model shouldn't rush to upgrade, the Max 2 are the better headphones.

The AirPods Max 2 also use a new high-dynamic-range amplifier that pairs with the device's custom 40mm drivers. In testing, this resulted in a subtle improvement in sound quality. Our reviewer was especially impressed by their spacious soundstage, and they delivered a more balanced profile than rivals such as the Sony WH-1000XM6 and the Bose QuietComfort Ultra 2.

Noise-canceling performance is also exceptional and improved over the first-gen model. In fact, the AirPods Max 2 essentially matched the ANC power of Bose's industry-leading QC Ultra 2 headphones in our tests.

As with the first-generation model, the main drawbacks here are the headphones' weight and the included case. Though the premium metal design looks great, some people might find the Max 2 a bit heavy on their heads during extended listening. Meanwhile, the case doesn't fully protect the headphones. Instead, it just wraps around the ear cups. If you're looking for something more functional, check out our guide to the best AirPods Max accessories.

The AirPods Max 2 are also pricey, even compared to direct rivals. That said, we're already seeing regular $50 discounts at retailers like Amazon. Ultimately, if you're an Apple fan who wants top-tier sound in an over-ear design — and you're willing to splurge — these are the best AirPods you can buy.

Read our full Apple AirPods Max 2 review.

Check out our guide to the best over-ear headphones.

Apple AirPods, compared

What do AirPods offer that other earbuds don't?

AirPods stand out from other earbuds because of how seamlessly they work with other Apple products. Features like instant pairing, automatic switching between iPhone, iPad, and Mac, hands-free Siri, and Find My support are all tightly integrated at a level most competitors can't match. When paired with a compatible iPhone, certain AirPods also support features you won't find in other earbuds, including hearing health capabilities and Apple's Live Translation. Apple's noise cancellation is also among the most impressive on the market, rivaling top models from Bose and Sony.

How we test AirPods

To test the best AirPods, our audio reviewers evaluated performance across design, fit, sound quality, extra features, and ease of use. We listen to a diverse range of tracks across genres and from various sources, including many of the best music streaming services. For AirPods that support spatial audio, we also listen to Dolby Atmos tracks.

Likewise, if an AirPods model supports noise cancellation, we evaluate that feature in a real-world noisy environment, such as near heavy traffic outside, to test how well it reduces ambient noise. We also sample transparency modes to see how well the AirPods let in surrounding noise naturally.

For this guide, we focused on how each AirPods model compares to other AirPods to determine each model's strengths and weaknesses within Apple's headphones lineup. We also compared them to similar options from competing companies to gauge their performance against the best headphones from other brands.

Meet the expert behind this guide:

Steven Cohen, senior tech editor: I oversee tech buying guides for Business Insider's Reviews team, and I've been covering headphones for over a decade. My writers test earbuds year-round, including every new pair of AirPods Apple releases. I put this guide together based on our hands-on testing to help you figure out which AirPods actually make sense for you. While all of Apple's earbuds share some core features, certain models have advantages depending on how you listen. My goal is to break it all down so you can feel confident you're getting the right AirPods without paying for extras you'll never use.

Learn more about the Reviews team at Business Insider.

What to look for in AirPods

When choosing the right AirPods for your needs, consider price, sound quality, noise cancellation, and design.

Price: Apple's current lineup includes the AirPods 5 ($129), AirPods 5 with wireless charging case ($149), AirPods Pro 3 ($249), and AirPods Max 2 ($549). You should also still be able to find the older AirPods 4 without ANC at a discounted price (typically $99).

Sound quality: For earbuds, the AirPods Pro 3 offer the best overall audio performance. If you prefer over-ear headphones and don't mind paying more, the AirPods Max 2 are Apple's best-sounding option, period. The AirPods 5 sound solid, but their open-fit design leads to some audio leakage.

Noise cancellation: The AirPods 5, AirPods Pro 3, and AirPods Max 2 all support ANC. The Max 2 headphones block out the most noise thanks to their over-ear build, followed by the Pro 3 thanks to their in-ear seal. The AirPods 5 also deliver solid noise cancellation considering their open-fit design, but they can't match the Max 2 or Pro 3.

Design and fit: The AirPods Pro, AirPods 5, and AirPods 4 are all earbuds. The Pro 3 use an in-ear fit that creates a seal for better sound and stability. An in-ear design is great for performance, but not everyone loves the feel. The AirPods 5 and 4 use a semi-open design that sits just outside the ear canal, making them more comfortable for some but less effective for sound quality and ANC. For an entirely different experience, the AirPods Max 2 use an over-ear design with padded cups and a headband. They deliver the strongest performance but aren't nearly as portable as earbuds.

What are the top AirPods alternatives?

Apple's AirPods are popular headphones, but they may not be the ideal choice for all users. This is especially true if you plan to use your earbuds primarily with an Android phone or PC. Thankfully, many brands sell similar headphones that are less rigidly tied to the Apple ecosystem.

Some of our favorite AirPods alternatives include the Beats Fit Pro, Beats Powerbeats Pro 2, and Soundcore Liberty 4 NC. The Beats brand is actually owned by Apple, and the Fit Pro earbuds use the company's H1 chip, just like older AirPods. Meanwhile, the Powerbeats Pro 2 use the H2 chip and have heart rate tracking just like the AirPods Pro 3. Beats headphones also offer a more Android-friendly set of features and an Android app. The Soundcore earbuds are an affordable alternative to AirPods, priced under $100, and feature a stem-like design reminiscent of classic AirPods.

Check out our guide to the best AirPods alternatives for details on all of our picks. For earbuds geared more toward active use, visit our guides to the best running headphones and best headphones for working out.

AirPods FAQs

Is Apple releasing new AirPods in 2026?

Apple released the AirPods 5 on September 18. These new AirPods are notable for bringing noise cancellation to the brand's base $129 starting price.

Apple is also rumored to be developing a new AirPods Pro model, which will feature built-in cameras. However, the new AirPods Pro are not expected to debut until 2027.

Do AirPods go on sale?

Although Apple rarely offers direct discounts on AirPods in its online or physical stores, the headphones often receive great deals from other retailers, such as Amazon. In fact, it's rare to find the AirPods Pro 3 or Max 2 selling at full price

Based on typical street prices, we don't recommend paying more than $229 for the AirPods Pro 3 or $509 for the AirPods Max 2.

Meanwhile, the older AirPods 4 without ANC are typically on sale for $110 at most, so we don't recommend paying more than that.

The brand-new AirPods 5 just launched in September, so deal pricing isn't common for them just yet.

Getting a new sweater is one of the small joys of autumn. As the leaves start to fall and you start swapping iced coffees for hot lattes, the urge to wrap yourself in something soft and warm becomes greater and greater. But not all sweaters are created equal, which is why we've rounded up the best picks from our favorite brands.

For more of our favorite staples, see our articles on the best women's basics brands, the best white button-down shirts, and the best workwear for women.

Our advice on buying sweaters

After testing dozens of sweaters, I found one thing to be true: nothing beats natural fibers. You'll find troves of thick knits made from materials like acrylic, nylon, and polyester — but these all suffer from the same sensations of scratchiness and suffiness. Synthetic materials are all spun from threads of what is fundamentally plastic. They trap stuffy heat, are hard to remove odors from, and pill after a few washes.

Natural fibers, on the other hand, are temperature-regulating. A material like cashmere is warm when you need it to be, but won't leave you fanning yourself and sweating the moment you step into a heated building. Organic fibers also just feel way better against your skin. While synthetics may be suitable for clothes like workout gear and outerwear, I highly recommend avoiding them when it comes to sweaters; even cotton or wool blends are questionable.

Instead, stick with 100% cotton or 100% wool pieces. The only drawback to these materials is that they tend to be more expensive than synthetics — but there are budget-friendly options available. For example, you can get a 100% cotton sweater for $40 or a Mongolian Cashmere sweater for $50 at Quince.

The best sweaters for women are all made of natural fibers. Here are our favorites.

Best overall: Naadam Original Cashmere Sweater

A top-tested pick for soft, breathable, insulating cashmere at a surprisingly approachable under-$100 price.

There are few better additions to your cold-weather wardrobe than a cashmere sweater. And while you may think that such a purchase will cost you a significant proportion of your paycheck, Naadam wants you to think again.

Naadam is our favorite place to find high-quality, reasonably priced cashmere. Associate Editor Gabrielle Chase made it her mission to find the best cashmere sweater and, after testing almost every brand you can think of, Nadaam came out on top. More specifically, she swears by Naadam's Original Cashmere Sweater. The piece is just under $100, which is a fantastic price for fine-spun cashmere.

Here's what Gabi had to say in her Naadam Cashmere Sweater review: "I even sleep in mine, it's that soft. The knit is breathable and insulating all at once, which is unique to cashmere. Another thing I love — this one sweater is unisex (just size up for a looser fit) and comes in dozens of colors, from versatile neutrals to vibrant pastels."

Best oversized: perfectwhitetee Janet Sweater

A thick, oversized 100% cotton knit made of impeccable textiles that's available in over 20 colors.

Though fabrics like merino wool have long been synonymous with winter sweaters, I'm here to convince you that you don't need to deal with itchy fibers, one-season garments, or high-maintenance fabrics. The solution? Thick-knit cotton.

The Janet Sweater from high-quality basics brand perfectwhitetee is made of 100% heavyweight cotton. The cotton knit is both soft and weighty, with ribbed detailing on the sleeves, neck, and hem. The thick yarn helps the sweater maintain its structure, but the organic cotton yarn keeps the garment breathable and immensely wearable.

You can get the crewneck in almost 20 shades of colors, ranging from bright spring hues (like the banana yellow I'm wearing above) to deep, wintry shades like burgundy and forest green. The fit is boxy and oversized, so I'd advise sizing down if you want a more tailored look.

The only downside to cotton is that it isn't quite as warm as wool, but you avoid the sweaty, prickly feeling that occurs when you step into a heated room. If I know it's going to be unbearably chilly, I'd layer a long-sleeve shirt underneath the sweater, but I've never had that issue in NYC.

Best fisherman: L.L.Bean Men's Cotton Fisherman Sweater

A heavyweight yet breathable 100% cotton knit with an effortlessly oversized fit that works beautifully as a women's sweater.

This sweater is the crème de la crème of women's sweaters — even if it's labeled as a men's sweater. I knew I had to write about the L.L. Bean Men's Cotton Fisherman Sweater when I hopped on a video call with Sally Kaplan, the executive editor of Insider Reviews, and I immediately recognized the sweater she was wearing. We gushed about how it's the best for a good ten minutes before starting our meeting.

It's made of a heavyweight cotton yarn, which means that it manages to be both breathable and pleasantly chunky. And because it's a men's style, the fit is oversize — but not so much so that it will swallow you.

"I love the way this sweater hangs on me. I got a men's XL (for reference, I'm 5-foot-2 and usually wear a 12 or 14) and it hits me just below my hips for a perfectly oversized look," says Sally.

For our full thoughts (and outfit ideas), see our L.L.Bean Cotton Fisherman Sweater review.

Best budget cashmere sweater: Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck

This cashmere crewneck is a solid, budget-friendly sweater that feels pricier than it is — though it's slightly thinner and less smooth than Naadam's cashmere.

Here are our thoughts on the sweater from our full Quince review.

"The super soft Quince Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater feels more expensive than it is, and it's obvious why it's such a hit. It's main difference from Naadam's ($98) is that it's slightly thinner and not as smooth. I tested the newest Cashmere 2.0 version, which costs the same and felt slightly thicker than the original, but it still trails Naadam in terms of softness.

"Of course, the price tag on Quince's 100% Grade-A Mongolian cashmere is attractive when you see that it's practically identical to Naadam's. The patterns are the exact same (unless I'm really nitpicking — Quince's neckline is bound with a seam that looks slightly more unfinished and liable to fray). But the quality is acceptable and consistent with other Quince cashmere pieces I've tested." — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews

Read more in Gabi's full Naadam vs. Quince cashmere sweater review.

Best graphic sweater: Aritzia Cotton Charm Fern Sweater

If you want your sweater to show a little personality (or be a tribute to your favorite fuzzy friend), this cashmere-cotton blend sweater is a delightful pick.

Aritzia's Cotton Charm Fern Sweater is indeed unbelievably charming. I've combed through tons of cute graphic sweaters for this category and came across the usual — Christmas-centric designs, Ralph Lauren-inspired teddy bears, and piles of typical iron-on wintry designs.

But this sweater from Aritzia surprised me with both its ideal fabric content (95% cotton, 5% cashmere — not a synthetic in sight) and its bevy of delightful and unique intarsia designs. There's a white kitten with angel wings, an adorable goldendoodle bedecked with a hat and scarf, and my absolute favorite — a sweater-clad red panda with its arms in the air.

I've received numerous compliments on my red panda sweater, with people even stopping me in the street to ask where I purchased it. It's the perfect amount of oversized, and I've worn it with a plaid skirt and tights or jeans and Mary Janes — and it's always been a hit.

Best luxury cashmere: Guest in Residence Oversized Crew

Guest in Residence's oversized cashmere sweater has the kind of super-soft, lightweight-but-cozy feel that makes the splurge make sense—and it has held up impressively well with minimal pilling in our testing.

If you've ever wanted to dress like Gigi Hadid, now you can. Guest in Residence is the model's line of luxury cashmere sweaters and accessories. And this oversized cut is one of their best sellers.

"I love the super soft handfeel of this slouchy sweater, and from my experience with testing this luxury knit, I'm willing to bet that Guest in Residence bid high on premium-grade cashmere to create it. It barely pills, even after a lot of regular wear, and it's both lightweight and cozy," says Gabrielle Chase.

If you're wondering why this sweater is more expensive than other kinds of cashmere sweaters, check out Gabi's Guest in Residence review, where she digs into details about the gauge and quality to explain the cost.

Best waffle-knit: Buck Mason Seafarer Cotton Crewneck Sweater

This crewneck is a remarkably soft, breathable cotton sweater with subtle balloon sleeves and an easy, just-right fit that keeps it in regular rotation.

You may recognize Buck Mason as the viral menswear brand birthed on Shark Tank, but it has since expanded its selection to women's clothing. Above all, the company is focused on using the highest-quality fabrics around. They have their own knitting mills, controlling the entire manufacturing process from start to finish. This results in textiles that are a cut above the rest.

The Seafarer Crewneck is one of the best sweaters for women because it's made from seven gauge cotton yarn. This breathable knit is so soft that I keep reaching for it over and over again. I love the slight balloon sleeves, the Goldilocks fit, and of course, the feel of the fabric.

Best half-zip: Quince Merino wool half-zip

Quince's Merino wool half-zip has a chunky, cozy fisherman-sweater feel, with an oversized fit and adjustable zip that makes layering easy without wrecking your hair or makeup.

"This Merino wool half-zip has a chunky knit like a fisherman sweater, and it's really easy to layer with because of the loose, oversized fit. Wearing this has made me realize I actually love a half-zip closure because I can loosen it when I pull it over my head and it won't mess up my hair or smudge my makeup. Then once it's on, I zip it back up and it keeps my neck warm.

"I like the chunky lower gauge knit for this kind of sweater because it feels heavyweight and insulating without suffocating me around the neckline. And for the price, you really can't do much better on a Merino wool sweater of this quality." — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews

How we tested for the best sweaters for women

We determine the best sweaters for women by doing long-term testing. This means that we wear the sweaters multiple times, launder them according to instructions, and update our articles if we begin to see signs of wear and tear.

We evaluate the quality of the material by noting whether it pills, whether washing changes the shape of the garment, and whether it is worth the initial cost.

• Donald Trump hosted a lunch for the top AI leaders on Tuesday.
• He posted a seating chart, with Jensen Huang and Elon Musk by his side.
• OpenAI and Anthropic were sitting curiously far from the president. Apple was missing.

President Donald Trump's seating chart is a who's who of AI.

Trump hosted a "Super Intelligence Luncheon" on Tuesday, dining with the CEOs of most major AI labs and tech companies. Elon Musk will be on Trump's left; Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang will be on his right.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Google CEO Sundar Pichai were both one seat removed from Trump. Interestingly, two of the other big AI labs — OpenAI and Anthropic — were far removed from Trump.

OpenAI was represented by its president, Greg Brockman, while CEO Sam Altman continued his media blitz for the company's DevDay. Brockman was positioned across the table and five seats down from Trump.

OpenAI's sometimes-contentious partner, Microsoft, was also present. CEO Satya Nadella sat closer to Trump than Brockman.

Anthropic has long had a rocky relationship with the Trump administration. Its CEO, Dario Amodei, sat six seats down from Trump, almost at the end of the table. Amodei was further from Trump than the CEOs of chip companies like Broadcom and Micron.

Tom Brown, who served as an emissary for Anthropic during government negotiations, was also at the lunch. He sat on the opposite side of Trump, at the end of the table.

Some other interesting lunchers: Palo Alto Networks' Nikesh Arora, ServiceNow's Bill McDermott, and "All-In" co-host Chamath Palihapitiya. Palantir was represented by both its CEO, Alex Karp, and its CTO, Shyam Sankar.

Amazon was represented by its founder and executive chairman, Jeff Bezos, rather than current CEO Andy Jassy.

Noticeably absent: Apple. As the company aims to catch up in the AI race, neither former CEO Tim Cook nor current CEO John Ternus was listed as a guest at the event.

The lunch began at 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday. It is named after "Super Intelligence," the proposed renaming of AI that Trump announced last week.

After lunch, Trump said he had officially changed the name.

"We've changed the name officially today," Trump said outside the White House. "The name has been officially changed by the biggest, the smartest, the greatest people anywhere in the world."

He also said he signed a "morally binding" agreement with the tech leaders.

Zuckerberg shared some details of the agreement with reporters.

"We drafted a set of principles and commitments around building robust internal controls and detecting if there are any issues with the technology, coupled with multiple layers of auditing and controls, starting with internal risk review, external auditors and evaluators, and agreeing that we're going to have all of our boards of directors independently review the reports that come from the auditors," he said.

This story has been updated with additional details about Trump's proposed renaming of AI.

I don't make all my fashion choices based on Taylor Swift's style, but I'm definitely a little influenced.

As she geared up for the Eras tour, Swift was spotted no less than four times wearing a small activewear brand called Popflex. I became intrigued by the heavy speculation that the "lilac short skirt" mentioned in her song "imgonnagetyouback" is actually the Popflex Pirouette Skirt. 

I've written several of guides to the best plus-size clothing, so I was excited to learn how inclusive the brand is. Nearly every style is available up to a size 3X, and the pants are available in several different inseams to fit short and tall people.

After wearing Popflex clothing for two years, our editors consider it the best place to find cute, comfortable plus-size workout clothes. The fabrics have stayed soft and stretchy, and the designs are thoughtfully constructed to support large busts and fit wide hips.

In our Popflex review, I've included more durability notes after a year of heavy wear, plus our thoughts on the latest Popflex pieces we've tested. Here's everything we loved (and everything we didn't).

Shop all clothing at Popflex.

The viral Pirouette Skort

I'm proud to say I was obsessed with the Popflex Pirouette Skirt even before Taylor Swift put a certain "lilac short skirt, the one that fits me like skin" onto the world stage. It's a frilly, ballerina spin on a workout classic. I chose a basic black color because I wanted to wear it with everything. It's definitely a "for the girls" kind of skort; I've had women driving down the street stop me while I was walking to tell me they loved it.—Jaclyn Turner

I contemplated buying the Pirouette Skort for months, but could never decide on a color. Then, Popflex debuted its first floral print, Meadow, and I just knew I needed to have it. I'm in love with this skort. It's so dang cute and breezy, but also super functional with the anti-chafe undershorts and pockets(!). Now I want one in every color. —Lauren Savoie

I'd wanted to try the iconic Pirouette Skort for years, but I was finally convinced to click add to cart when the brand dropped its meadow collection this spring. Since buying it, I can confidently say that Popflex has perfected the fashionable athleisure formula. I love the flowy look, plus the interior shorts and skirt are silky-soft. I wore the this skort while on a hike and loved how I felt comfortable and cute at the same time. There's only one not-so-problematic problem: you won't be able to stop twirling while wearing it. —Kinsley Searles

Popflex Crisscross Hourglass Flared Leggings

I attribute these sleek flare leggings to putting me back on to yoga pants. They elongate my legs and give my butt a nice lift. I feel nice and supported, and the fabric is so buttery soft. The elastic just snatches you you in so nicely, they still fit like a glove, which has been quite nice, as while I've had to shell out to replace my old favorite leggings, these are still hanging on. They come in five different inseams, too, which is nice for girls of all heights. Also, thank goodness for subtle side pockets that easily fit my phone. —Jaclyn Turner

The Crisscross Flared Leggings with Pockets, with their high-waisted crisscross details, make me feel very Gen Z (in a good way!) I love that they come in different inseams. At 5'11", I find that pants are chronically short on me, but these leggings in the 34-inch inseam were perfect, if not a little long (they go up to a 37-inch inseam). They're comfy and cute and I feel they've been a staple of many walks over the past year. —Lauren Savoie

Popflex Tie-Breaker Superdress

Our fitness gear expert Rachael Schultz put 28 exercise dresses to the test through walks, tennis matches, and bike rides. "The Tie-Breaker Supedress was easily one of my top three favorite dresses I tested," she writes. "The built-in shorts did a decent job at staying down, and even when they did roll up, it was weirdly not as uncomfortable as with other dresses I tested. It has a contouring bodice, a flirty skirt with a side opening, and thick, adjustable straps that offer decent support. But for high-intensity workouts, it still needs a sports bra underneath."

If you sweat a lot, you'll be comfortable in this dress. "I wore it on a scorching day riding bikes in the sun, and the material didn't hold onto any moisture. It also let wind come through to cool me down. The polyester-Spandex blend fabric felt very lightweight and incredibly breathable."

Popflex Packable Windbreaker

We included this sporty top layer in our guide to the best travel jackets for women. "Popflex's Packable Windbreaker is a lightweight, travel jacket that crops high on the waist into a slightly boxy, oversized shape. Inside, the colorfully floral-printed hood adds a feminine intrigue to the sporty silhouette," writes style contributor Olivia Rose Rushing.

The sleeves don't run too long thanks to the elasticated cuffs, and the material is wind and water-resistant enough to handle some light rain and breeze if you're visiting somewhere between seasons.

There is plenty of pocket space both inside and out, and the whole thing packs down into a small pouch (which you can use as a travel pillow in a pinch).

Popflex Zip Cloud Hoodie

I don't typically equate hoodies with being stylish, but this one certainly is, with its oversized balloon sleeves, slightly cropped fit, and dramatic sweeping hood. A TikTok about how founder Cassey Ho designed it actually lives rent-free in my head, so it was definitely one of the Popflex pieces I was eager to try. The brand suggested I size down in the Cloud Hoodie to an L/XL, and it fits perfectly. My one odd observation is that the matching metal cord stoppers could kind of hurt if flung around — they definitely clang about in the dryer — and I've noticed the powder coating start to chip. Regardless, the hoodie is still unbelievably cozy, and I haven't noticed any pilling or shedding. —Jaclyn Turner

I've worn the heck out of this hoodie over the past year, so much so that Jaclyn recently remarked that I seem to be wearing it in every Zoom meeting we have. This hoodie has the perfect oversized fit, which is hard to find when you're plus size. The hoodie is more fitted at the hips than at the waist, which produces a bubbled-over look rather than hanging straight down like most zip hoodies. The 1X/3X is generously sized; I usually wear a 3X and I felt like I had plenty of extra room in the hoodie. My one complaint is that the metal and plastic cord stoppers have not held up. One has gone missing and the other has broken in half. They're not essential pieces, but it's still frustrating to see broken hardware in less than a year of wear. —Lauren Savoie

When I think of a hoodie, I think of a narrow, uncomfortable hood and a waistband that bunches around my hips. Popflex has completely changed my relationship with hoodies with its Cloud Hoodie. This jacket solved my usual hoodie problems with a large, loose hood and plenty of fabric for a beautiful oversized look. I usually wear a 3X and found the 3X/4X hoodie was ridiculously roomy. I love how the hoodie can be styled for a loose or cropped fit. It looks great over a sports bra when loose, but the cropped look looks trendy when zipped up and worn with leggings. Plus, the pockets are huge. I don't even bring a purse when I wear this hoodie: my keys, wallet, and phone fit just fine. It even fit my deck box during a Pokémon TCG tournament, which was a major win for me. —Kinsley Searles

Popflex Twirl Skort

As a tall girl with a big booty, short skirts always feel like a hazard for me, but the built-in shorts in this Twirl Skort make me feel extra confident that my butt is fully covered while I'm running around a pickleball court or hiking up steep trails. It's not only incredibly cute, but also super soft and comfortable, and I've gotten many compliments on it. Popflex recently released a longer version of this skort, and I actually think that one would be a better length for me. I'm looking forward to giving it a try. —Lauren Savoie

A twirly tennis skort can do no wrong in my book. This one is so comfy and elevates my errand look or was perfect to throw on for an outdoor concert. It's a great-fitting basic that sucks me in and I love the length. I'm going to need this in every color. —Jaclyn Turner

Popflex Go With The Flow Jumpsuit

Of everything I tried from Popflex, the Go With the Flow Long Sleeve Jumpsuit was my favorite. I love its versatility. It's easily dressed up or down: wear it with chunky heels and gold hoops for a night out or your favorite pair of sneakers to walk your dog. It's also available in five different lengths, so you can find your perfect fit, whether petite or tall. I'm 5'6 and found that the regular jumpsuit fit me perfectly. The best part of this jumpsuit is the built-in shelf bra that is actually supportive. Since I was a teenager, I wrote off built-in shelf bras, since their support has continued to let me down. I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the Go with the Flow Jumpsuit supports my bust and includes thick front padding for extra coverage. I can't wait for the tank top version of this jumpsuit to get restocked in my size so I can add another to my wardrobe.

Popflex Perfect Tee

The "perfect" T-shirt is pretty subjective, but I'd argue that for a workout top, Popflex's version gets pretty darn close. The material feels very cool to the touch, and it's incredibly roomy and comfy — kind of like your favorite oversized tee that you keep around from college, but upgraded. I like wearing it loose, but there's enough fabric that it can easily be knotted in the front for a more fitted look. —Lauren Savoie

Popflex Ambition Bra

The Ambition Bra is a great large bust sports bra: supportive, soft, and cute. It's become my go-to for low- to medium-impact activities like pickleball, hiking, and biking. I've felt super comfortable wearing it on its own and under clothes, which is not something I can say for every sports bra in my dresser. It has a great amount of coverage, which makes it feel closer to a cropped tank than a sports bra. I've tried the brand's Romance Ruffle Bra (now discontinued) and Flexy Crop Top bra and I prefer the support of the Ambition. —Lauren Savoie

Popflex Favorite Long Sleeve

Along with the meadow collection, Popflex released an updated version of its Favorite Long Sleeve Top with a longer torso. Usually, I find myself overstimulated by tight clothes, but I love the fit and feel of this form-fitting top. Like all of Popflex's clothing, the fabric is so soft and comfortable. The top even has thumb holes for a super sporty look. It's reversible, too, so you can wear it boatneck or crewneck style. It's a versatile, basic piece that will freshen up any wardrobe. —Kinsley Searles

Popflex Flexy Crop Top

I got the Flexy Crop Top to pair with my pirouette skirt, since I'm a fan of a cropped, long-line look. My favorite part of this sports bra is its thick coverage built into the front of the top and the cute T-back design. The extra padding is much more cushioned than your typical sports bra, so I stayed comfy and secure. I wish there was more support on the sides of the top to keep my body from spilling over the edges, since I'm a plus-size gal with a large bust. I'd still definitely recommend the Flexy Crop Top, though, since it's a versatile piece you can wear with leggings, shorts, or a skirt. —Kinsley Searles

Popflex Corset Cami

The Corset Cami is so cute and flirty, and the adjustable straps are an absolute must. It could easily go from barre to dinner. The light bubblegum pink color did show a little more of my tummy details than I personally feel comfortable with, so next time I'd probably opt for a darker color. —Jaclyn Turner

Popflex Peekaboo Crew Tank

The material on the Peekaboo Crew Tank is so silky and smooth, but because of the cut-out, you can't really wear a sports bra underneath it, so I find myself opting for other workout tops over this one. (There is a built-in bra, but I prefer a bit more support.) —Lauren Savoie

Popflex Supershort Runsie

This (now discontinued) style was my one wild card and, unfortunately, a pass. While I absolutely loved the Iris color, the fit of the Supershort Runsie did not flatter me. The built-in sports bra was not supportive enough for me, causing my breasts to sag over the cutout design, while the built-in biker shorts gaped away from my legs and hit at an odd length. Overall, the design made me feel very round. —Jaclyn Turner

• Rebecca Yarros released "Threshing Day" on Tuesday.
• The book unveils new lore about dragons and their riders from the "Empyrean" series.
• It also hints at romances developing in future "Fourth Wing" books.

Happy Threshing Day!

OK, it's not actually Threshing Day, but Tuesday is the day Rebecca Yarros released her new "Fourth Wing" book titled "Threshing Day."

No, it's not book four in the "Empyrean" series, which readers have been anxiously awaiting since "Onyx Storm" was released in 2025. It's a collection of the stories of riders from the "Fourth Wing" universe on their Threshing Days, when they bond with their dragons in their first year of training at Basgiath War College.

Protagonist Violet Sorrengail doesn't have a story in the collection, as her Threshing Day appeared in "Fourth Wing." Instead, Yarros offers the perspectives of people around Violet, unveiling new lore about the riders and their dragons.

The stories have major ramifications for Yarros' beloved romantasy series, including how dragons bond and hints at future romances.

Here are some of the most important details you might have missed in "Threshing Day."

Multiple points of view

The new book includes the story of 13 Threshings, though some of those stories take place on the same day. For instance, Xaden Riorson and Garrick Tavis experience Threshing Day together, and their chapters follow the day from their respective perspectives.

Notably, Yarros includes a note at the top of the book that says, "The following text has been faithfully transcribed from Navarrian into the modern language by Colonel Valin Kaori and Lieutenant Ellery Mynna, professors of Dragonkind at Basgiath War College."

That note differs from those included at the start of the "Fourth Wing" novels, which are transcribed by the scribe Jesinia Neilwart. Scribes have been revealed to be unreliable narrators throughout the events of the "Empyrean" series, while Dragonkind professors have not, making "Threshing Day" more trustworthy than other books in the series.

Yarros confirmed at a book release event in Denver that readers can trust the narration in "Threshing Day," unlike in the rest of her series.

"It tells you that yes, this is a faithful first POV," she said. "You guys can trust what happens in this book."

How Threshing works

Although readers saw Violet bond her dragons, Tairn and Andarna, in "Fourth Wing," much about the actual process remained a mystery.

"Threshing Day" broke down how the process works in more detail. First, several of the riders describe feeling a tugging in their chests that leads them to their dragons, as if they are calling to them.

Each rider also sheds blood during Threshing. Some scratch themselves on trees or get in a fight before they bond, but in Ridoc Gamlyn's case, blood seemed to appear out of nowhere: "I note a twinge in my knee that, yep, is bleeding. Huh. I must have landed on a twig or something back there."

Yarros doesn't explain why each rider bleeds during their Threshing, but dragons frequently refer to bloodlines as sources of power in the "Empyrean" series.

Several of the riders also express a need or desire before bonding, which is later fulfilled by the signet power they develop. Brennan Sorrengail thinks to himself how important menders are moments before he bonds his dragon and goes on to become a powerful mender. Imogen Cardulo wishes she could take back something she said, and then develops the power to erase memories (more on that later).

The correlation suggests that signet powers align with a rider's temperament or desires, though we'll have to see how Yarros explores that concept down the line.

Rebel dragons

Many of the riders featured in "Threshing Day" are children of rebels who fought against Navarre, whom readers learned in "Iron Flame" and "Onyx Storm" are secretly bonding with dragons that previously bonded with their direct family members. The practice is forbidden in Navarre because it can allow riders to develop multiple signets, creating a power imbalance.

In the first chapter of "Threshing Day," Professor Colonel Thadeus Palme reveals that even the staff struggles to tell dragons apart, creating the potential for confusion.

"I have found that no artist has flawlessly depicted every distinguishing mark of a dragon, which makes telling descendants apart woefully difficult," he wrote. "When in doubt, it is prudent to ask a cadet for the name of their dragon."

Because humans rely on riders to trace dragons, the dragons can hide their identities. For instance, Imogen bonds with Glane, who is recorded as being 19 and having never bonded with a rider before her. Yet, Imogen knows that isn't true because she met Glane as a child when she was bonded to her grandmother. Garrick's dragon also indicates he is lying about his identity, though he doesn't reveal who he is.

Human lies can also enable dragons to bond with their previous riders' descendants. Xaden bonds with Sgaeyl, and in "Iron Flame," he confesses to Violet that his dragon was previously bonded to his grandfather when she discovers he has a second signet. He didn't answer Violet's questions about how that was possible in "Iron Flame," but in "Threshing Day," Yarros reveals that Xaden's public grandfather isn't his biological grandfather. His grandmother had an affair with his great-uncle, and Xaden's father was born from their affair. The public never knew Xaden's true ancestry, which allowed him to bond with Sgaeyl.

Some dragons are also seeking out riders who want to overthrow Navarre and fight venin. On their Threshing Days, Xaden and Imogen tell Bodhi and Sloane Mairi that specific dragons are seeking them out because they want riders sympathetic to the rebel cause, confirming some dragons are playing an active role in the war.

Venin clues

As any "Fourth Wing" fan knows, "Onyx Storm" ended on a cliffhanger, with Yarros writing that an unnamed rider had joined Xaden as a venin.

Garrick and Bodhi are two of the likeliest suspects, and Yarros included hints that they could have turned in "Threshing Day."

Garrick repeatedly expresses a willingness to sacrifice himself for the sake of others — particularly Xaden — throughout his chapter, a practice his dragon Chradh questions.

Bodhi, on the other hand, reveals that Xaden is his weakness, and he feels responsible for protecting him from abusing his power. Bodhi also worries he doesn't have an identity outside being Xaden's cousin, though bonding with his dragon Cuir seems to calm that fear.

Garrick may have turned venin in the hopes of protecting others, and Bodhi could have tried to carve his own path as a venin. Both riders' loyalty to Xaden suggests they could turn to protect him as he travels down his dark path.

Mysterious moms

In addition to leaving clues about the venin, Yarros laid some groundwork for other aspects of the "Fourth Wing" series' future.

Notably, multiple characters shared that their mothers' whereabouts are unknown. Dain Aetos' mother fled during the rebellion, leaving him with his father. She stopped writing letters to Dain a year before he started at Basgiath.

Garrick says he helped his mother escape Aretia before the rebellion fell. Neither Garrick nor Dain knows where their mothers are, which could mean they are lying in wait to help their sons when the time is right.

Similarly, Liam and Sloane's mom is dead, but the dragons reveal she was called the Rune Master when she was alive. Liam says she had "unmatched skill with runes," and Sloane's dragon, Thoirt, tells her that she inherited her mother's power. Sloane was revealed to be a siphon in the "Empyrean" series, but readers have yet to see how that might play into her prowess with runes.

Love is in the air

Although "Threshing Day" doesn't have any scenes between Violet and Xaden, there are still some romantic plots that are developed in the text.

First, Yarros revealed that Imogen and Garrick have loved each other since childhood, with Garrick waiting anxiously for Imogen to arrive at Basgiath a year after him.

However, Imogen is holding Garrick at arm's length because she has lost so many people she loves. In fact, when she shares an intimate feeling with him, Imogen immediately thinks to herself that she wishes she could remove the last 10 minutes from his mind. Considering she develops the ability to erase people's minds shortly after, she may have been wiping her romantic expressions from Garrick's mind without his knowledge, preventing their relationship from progressing.

Yarros also lays further groundwork for a romance between Sloane and Dain. Sloane hates Dain, as she blames him for Liam's death. In "Onyx Storm," though, they share multiple charged moments that have become fan-favorites for a potential enemies-to-lovers storyline, including an interaction where Dain forces Sloane to look at him by saying, "Eyes here."

In "Threshing Day," Yarros reveals it wasn't the first time Dain said that to Sloane. When Sloane tries to sacrifice herself during Threshing, Dain saves her, breaking the rules of the Codex. They quarrel, and during the talk, Dain says to her, "Eyes here, Mairi," to get her attention.

It seems likely Yarros will further explore Dain and Sloane's relationship in future "Empyrean" works.

Verizon offers one of the best unlimited data plans, especially worthwhile for families and group sign-ups. With its reliable service, extra features, and sweet deals, it's an excellent choice if you're within the carrier's coverage area. Especially if you can get a free phone from Verizon, joining is a breeze.

The brand offers tons of worthwhile phone deals, but if you set your plan up just right, you can score a free iPhone 18 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S26 FE, Google Pixel 11 Pro, or Google Pixel 11. The most exciting offer is Apple's newest smartphone, the iPhone 18 Pro, but Android users will also enjoy Samsung's latest entry-level flagship device, the S26 FE, or Google's top-of-the-line Pixel 11 Pro. A whole array of older-generation devices is also up for grabs if you'd prefer.

How to get a free iPhone 18 Pro from Verizon

Though the other devices require a simple plan sign-up, the iPhone 18 Pro requires a trade-in and more to get for free since it's so new. Here's how to get yours:

1. Visit the Verizon MyPlan page and select the Unlimited Ultimate tier.
2. Choose perks you'd like to add to your plan, including discounts on the Disney Plus Bundle, Netflix and HBO Max, Apple Music, and more. Alternatively, choose none, and click Next Steps.
3. Click to add the iPhone 18 Pro to your plan, then select your preferred color and 256GB storage (the promo doesn't cover larger sizes, but you can pay the difference if you want more).
4. Specify whether you are a new customer or an existing customer.
5. Opt in to a device trade-in to save up to $33.33 a month on your phone.
6. Select the 36-month payment option, then click Next Steps.
7. Complete checkout, adding extra devices or bringing your own if you have other lines on your plan.

Learn how to get a free iPad A16 and Apple Watch Series 12 with an iPhone 18 Pro Max in our guide.

How to get a free phone from Verizon

If you're an Android user, or opting for an older iPhone, the process is a bit simpler to get your free device. Here's how to get started:

1. Visit the landing page for your preferred smartphone: Samsung Galaxy S26, Google Pixel 11 Pro, iPhone 17, or otherwise.
2. Select your preferred device color, storage size, and whether you're a new customer or not. Keep in mind that free phone offers typically only cover the cost for the smallest storage choice.
3. Click the Monthly with Verizon payment option over 36 months, then click Next Steps.
4. Select your Verizon myPlan of choice — most devices require Unlimited Ultimate in order to fully pay off the phone's cost, but lower tiers still offer major discounts you may prefer.
5. Complete checkout and account sign-up.

Verizon offers a ton of devices for free with unlimited plans aside from the ones above. Older devices require lower monthly payments, making it easier to sign up for a lower-tier plan — but the overall savings aren't as exciting, nor is the device. That said, they're still perfectly serviceable phones, especially if you're just looking for a device to give your teenager.

Free Verizon phones available now

I've rounded up some of our favorite devices offered by Verizon for free with its Unlimited plans. You can find a ton more by browsing the free cell phone page anytime.

See more: iPhone 18 Pro offers | iPhone 18 Pro Max deals | Verizon iPhone 18 bundle deal

Follow us on Instagram and WhatsApp for the latest deals, reviews, and buying guides.

• Goldman Sachs warns tariff uncertainty will set off another bout of volatility in metal markets.
• Metal stockpiling has tightened global liquidity and raised the risk of price swings.
• Copper's role in AI infrastructure may lead to another roller coaster for the industrial metal.

Metal markets have been volatile during this year's commodities shocks, but Goldman Sachs says the roller coaster ride isn't over.

Daan Struyven, the bank's co-head of global commodities research, said investors should expected more volatility in critical metals, including silver, copper, platinum and palladium. In a note to investors last week, he cited high uncertainty from trade wars as a fresh catalyst for more swings.

"Implementing tariffs is unlikely to create new critical mineral supply because mines and smelters take far longer to build than tariffs take to change," Struyven wrote."But the risk of tariffs still achieves a national-security objective by pulling metal inventories into the US without requiring large-scale government purchases."

Struyven noted that the trade wars and tariff tensions have resulted in weaker liquidity in markets outside the US. Even if global stockpiles are high, metals can still be prone to extreme price swings in the event of a sudden buying frenzy as countries try to hoard supply.

Throughout 2025 and early 2026, the metals story has shifted beyond gold, which had a wild meme-like rally last year, to metals like silver, copper, and platinum. This change sparked sharp price increases outside the US, including a short squeeze that sent silver prices in London to their first record high in 45 years.

Now, current market conditions suggest that similar scenarios could play out as trade uncertainty remains high.

"While investor demand has softened as the market now prices a Fed hiking cycle, we expect much of the metal pulled into the US to remain trapped there, leaving available ex-US inventories tight and creating scope for a repeat of the 2025H2/2026H1 volatility should investor demand recover," Struyven added.

Copper could be particularly vulnerable to more big price swings in the near future. As Struyven points out, the metal has been in focus recently due to its role in the AI infrastructure buildout, and fears of a shortage have risen recently, with demand expected to exceed supply for the next decade, according to an analysis earlier this year.

Struyven noted that even if metal prices rise, some investors may keep buying, at least for a while. Higher prices may reinforce the notion that the metals trade is booming, but this could result in higher costs for companies that use metals in manufacturing.

• Two more Good Good leaders have exited as the company works through the aftermath of an ad scandal.
• The YouTube golf collective's heads of content and events posted that they were out of the org.
• Good Good has said it's focusing on its loyal fans after losing major partnerships.

Two more leaders have left Good Good as the YouTube golf collective works through the aftermath of an ad scandal that cost it major partnerships.

Logan Spence, the group's head of content, posted that he was leaving "after an incredible year" at the company. Spence was a high-level producer who worked on an extensive Good Good collab with General Motors, a person familiar with his work said.

Also out is Hung Tran, head of events, who posted earlier in the month that he was part of a set of layoffs. Tran said he ran events and community for the company. Reps for Good Good didn't comment.

Good Good faced massive blowback over an ad last month meant to promote its new driver with Callaway. The promo showed Good Good cofounder Garrett Clark running toward a female member of the group, Alexis Miestowski, and pushing her to the ground. Standing over her, he said, "Do not touch my new driver," before picking it up himself and hitting a shot.

The ad was met with swift online backlash, with critics saying it promoted violence against women. Callaway and some retailers cut ties with Good Good. The fallout led to the exits of Good Good's CEO, president, and top marketer. Good Good took down the ad and apologized. Callaway apologized and said that while the company was not involved in its production, its review process was inadequate. Both said the ad was inconsistent with their values.

The incident was a dramatic turn of events for Good Good, which had been considered one of the biggest successes of the creator economy. Good Good had built a string of retail partnerships around its high-energy golf videos and raised $45 million last year.

Now, Good Good's stars are looking to shore up support with their loyal fans. They recently took to YouTube to announce a plan to play golf in all 50 states in 50 days, posting daily videos.

"It's been a crazy last month, but you guys have been doing everything and anything you can, and it does not go unnoticed by us," one said in the video. "And because of that, we're giving you literally the greatest content that we've been wanting to give you for six and a half years."

• Amazon's delivery vehicles are making New York City's streets more dangerous, new data suggests.
• The report came with the endorsement of city officials leading a crackdown on delivery services.
• Amazon says it provides training and technology to help drivers safely navigate city streets.

Amazon is making New York City traffic more dangerous, according to new data compiled by an advocacy group.

Vehicles that deliver Amazon packages across the city received over 14,000 citations for violations between July 2020 and June 2025, including blocking emergency vehicles, obstructing fire hydrants, and speeding in school zones, said a report from The Alliance for a Greater New York. The report is based on data collected by the city.

The report drew support from one New York City official as the city continues its crackdown on delivery services under Mayor Zohran Mamdani. Most recently, the city inked a $131.5 million settlement with DoorDash last week over the company's pay practices.

Many of the workers driving the offending vehicles are independent contractors through an Amazon Delivery Service Partner, a third-party separate from the e-commerce giant. The workers often wear Amazon-branded clothes and must pass an Amazon-conducted background check to do the job.

"But when workers complain about dangerous conditions, Amazon points them to their DSP," the report reads. "And if an Amazon van is responsible for a traffic crash, the victim may sue Amazon for damages, but Amazon could argue that only the DSP is to blame."

An Amazon spokesperson said that the company works with DSPs "to promote safe delivery practices, from hands-on driver training to in-vehicle safety technology." The company has trained roughly 110,000 drivers through its Last Mile Training Academy, for instance, where drivers learn to safely operate a delivery vehicle.

DSPs are responsible for making sure that their drivers follow traffic laws — and have to assume the costs when drivers incur violations, the spokesperson said.

Amazon is also investing in alternatives to traditional delivery vehicles, such as cargo ebikes and on-foot delivery, the spokesperson said.

The violations were widespread across the city's five boroughs, the report said. They also involved 637 vehicle license plates.

Vehicles affiliated with Amazon were also the subject of roughly 13,000 idling incidents over the same five years, the report said. New York City allows residents to report commercial vehicles that idle for too long, and the city evaluates the complaints.

The findings point to a threat that Amazon's delivery model brings to New York City's streets, Samuel A.A. Levine, Commissioner of New York City's Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, said.

"The data is clear: an economy that rewards exploitation and shields powerful corporations from responsibility causes real harm to our communities," Levine said, in a statement.

Levine urged the passage of the Delivery Protection Act, a proposal before the New York City Council that would require companies like Amazon to directly employ the workers who deliver their packages.

Amazon opposes the measure, according to testimony that the company submitted in April.

Do you have a story idea about Amazon's delivery operations? Contact this reporter at abitter@businessinsider.com or via encrypted messaging app Signal at 808-854-4501. Use a personal email address, a nonwork WiFi network, and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

• I flew on Iraqi Airways, which doesn't fly to the US and is banned in the EU over safety concerns.
• The airline's Boeing 787 was practically new, but the seats were dirty and worn.
• I was surprised to receive a hot meal on the short flight, and the staff was friendly.

I'm an American college student with a passion for flying airlines that most people have never heard of. When I found a $123 economy ticket on Iraqi Airways, I booked it without a second thought.

When I started telling people, the reaction was always the same. Nobody I spoke to knew Iraq's national airline existed, and most questioned if it was safe. Decades of war and sanctions have left the carrier relatively small and made it difficult to acquire new planes and parts.

Few Americans have actually flown it. Iraqi Airways has never operated commercial flights to the US, largely due to limited demand to the Middle East and concerns about Iraq's aviation safety oversight. The carrier has been banned outright from flying in the EU since 2015 over safety concerns.

The airline still exists, though, and it's quietly rebuilding. My 2 ½-hour February flight from Baghdad to Dubai was on a new Boeing 787, and I spent the whole day being wrong about what I'd find.

These were the four things that surprised me most.

Iraqi Airways did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

The fleet is newer than I expected

I'll admit that when booking, I assumed I'd be placed on an old plane pushed way beyond its retirement date. That isn't what's sitting on the ramp in Baghdad now.

My aircraft was one of two practically new 787-8s that arrived in 2023, with more expected through 2027.

The airline has spent the last few years replacing a lot of its fleet, which has an average age of about 11 years, in line with major Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates and Qatar Airways. It was among the first airlines in the Middle East to fly the Airbus A220, and next-generation Boeing 737 Max 8s have been arriving since 2023.

While my plane looked impressive from the ramp, the interior confused me. With stained seats, crumbs along the cushions, and a dirty seatback pocket, I was surprised the cabin hadn't been cared for the way a 2-year-old plane should be.

I was also wary about safety. Iraqi Airways' only crash was in 1986 during a hijacking, but it remains on the EU's no-fly list. Regulators identified serious safety deficiencies in its operations and corporate management, and the Iraqi Civil Aviation Authority has failed to meet international aviation oversight standards.

Knowing that the airline you're about to fly on has a history of safety concerns is not exactly comforting.

Baghdad Airport has a pigeon problem

I flew Turkish Airlines to Baghdad International Airport from Istanbul the morning of my Iraqi Airways flight. I got my visa online through a third party for about $200, but didn't leave the airport, so I had plenty of time to explore.

What I noticed most in the airport terminal wasn't the unique architecture or the shops. It was the birds.

Pigeons were everywhere inside the concourse, doing their best airplane impressions. A few had even claimed the tops of the security cameras as their own.

My bird-loving heart enjoyed this for roughly 10 minutes: During boarding, I watched a pigeon poop on a man's head. He took it far better than I would have.

I got a hot meal on a 2-hour flight

Many US airlines gave up on feeding people years ago. Two hours domestically gets you a drink and a small snack; that's it for economy.

Iraqi Airways brought out a full warm meal on a flight of the same length. It wasn't just a sandwich or a snack box, but a hot tray of chicken and rice, served with enough time to eat before the descent started. Everything on the tray was good.

This meal service differs from what you'll find on many Western airlines, which operate in highly competitive markets where keeping costs down is a major priority.

Many US carriers have decided they don't need to offer full meal services on short-haul flights to compete. Iraqi Airways, by contrast, is state-owned with government funding and different cost pressures.

I met several interesting people at the airport

Flying is a stressful experience nearly everywhere, and airports can bring out an every-person-for-themselves instinct in most of us: Headphones in, eyes down, get through it. That's the baseline I've come to expect while traveling.

Baghdad Airport surprised me. A man at check-in started talking to me because he wanted to know where I was from. As an American, I wasn't someone he encountered every day, and before I knew it, we'd spent nearly an hour comparing our families and the customs we'd grown up with.

Later, I was trying to buy a bottle of water at a coffee stand when another traveler stepped in to translate. That turned into a conversation about how he'd learned English at university.

The interactions weren't what I'd expected from an airport I'd been nervous about navigating, as the US State Department has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory for Iraq. Instead, I got a glimpse of the people behind the place I was visiting.

Overall, it was definitely a whirlwind trip with plenty of surprises.

The plane itself left much to be desired, and Iraq continues to face aviation-safety challenges and significant geopolitical tensions. But flying Iraqi Airways as an American — albeit one who seeks out such unusual travel experiences — was fascinating.

I found a hub airport run by pigeons, a hot meal on a flight that wouldn't be offered in economy back home, and a fleet quietly being rebuilt, even as the airline continues to face regulatory challenges.

• While visiting Scotland for the first time, I learned which essentials I actually needed to pack.
• Layers, rain gear, and warm socks kept me ready for the unpredictable weather.
• However, I wish I had brought more comfortable clothing and a small crossbody bag with me.

During a trip to Scotland, I learned that rolling hills demand comfortable walking shoes, fall weather calls for layers, and a visit to the Highland cows just might require allergy medication.

I've been lucky enough to travel to the UK several times, but this was my first visit to the charming city of Edinburgh.

As I quickly learned, packing for Scotland is an adventure in itself. And although I got some things right, there were definitely a few items I wish I'd brought in my suitcase.

Here are six items I'm glad I packed, and four I really wish I had.

I'm glad I brought plenty of layers to keep up with Scotland's changing weather.

During my trip, I learned that the weather in the UK can be unpredictable and constantly changes throughout the day.

I visited Scotland in September, when the mornings were often cold, but by noon, the sun would warm things up in spots.

Plus, all the walking I was doing often made me sweat under my jacket, even on chilly days.

With all of that variation, I was glad I packed plenty of layers that I could easily add or remove. I recommend packing clothing in neutral colors so items can mix and match effortlessly.

Rain was frequent and unpredictable, so I carried my umbrella everywhere.

During my trip, I encountered quite a bit of rain that came and went throughout the day.

To stay prepared, I packed rain boots — also known as "wellies" by people in Scotland — and carried my travel-sized umbrella with me everywhere.

In my experience, the American weather apps didn't seem as accurate in the UK as the local ones, so there were days when I couldn't tell whether it was actually going to rain or not. In the end, it was best just to be ready for everything.

My fleece-lined socks were a game changer for keeping my feet warm.

Another game changer for me was packing a few pairs of big, plush socks.

Rain boots did a great job of keeping my feet dry, but not necessarily warm. And even on warmer days, my feet always seem to get chilly.

Whether I wore boots or sneakers, having cozy socks made such a difference. I found fleece-lined ones to be the most comfortable — and perfect for warming up.

A power adapter was essential for keeping all my devices charged.

When traveling abroad, it's essential to pack the correct power adapter. The UK uses a different plug type than many other countries in Europe — three rectangular prongs instead of the round ones.

Having the right adapter allowed me to easily charge my devices and use my hair tools without any issues.

I bought a multi-pack on Amazon before my trip. Some sets even include built-in USB ports or surge protection, which are great features to look for.

With a portable charger, I could explore all day without stressing about my phone's battery.

For me, a portable charger is an absolute must-have item when traveling.

Whether I was returning to the Airbnb after a long travel day, navigating the streets of Edinburgh, or looking up bus routes, the last thing I wanted was for my phone to die in an unfamiliar place.

Plus, carrying a portable charger is much more convenient than the alternative — lugging around a cord and an adapter everywhere.

Having one on me let me explore, snap photos, and check directions without worrying about my battery.

I was glad to have allergy medicine after spending some time at a farm.

No trip to Scotland felt complete without seeing Highland cows. Luckily, the farm we visited also had a few friendly horses to pet.

What the social media photos don't show, however, are the potential allergy attacks that can come from being around these adorable animals.

On the walk back from the farm, my friends and I all started feeling some symptoms, but luckily, we had each packed some allergy medicine.

It's definitely worth bringing your own from home, especially if you typically suffer from allergies. Having mine on hand saved me the hassle of figuring out what to buy at a local pharmacy.

However, I wish I had packed some more comfortable clothing to make all the walking easier.

When I packed for my trip, I had Instagram pictures in mind — not the terrain of Scotland.

I definitely didn't anticipate all the hills, steep inclines, mud, and rocky paths I'd be walking on. So even though I had plenty of layers, it wasn't the kind of clothing that would've made hiking and exploring more comfortable.

I found myself wandering around in trench coats, tights, and boots, while locals and other travelers breezed past me in sneakers and windbreakers. I quickly realized that comfort beats aesthetics every time.

I would've felt more secure if I'd packed a small crossbody bag for walking around.

I thought I had packed every type of bag — a backpack, tote bag, card holder, and a shoulder bag for going out. But the one thing I really wish I'd brought was a crossbody or belt bag that sat closer to my body.

For one, I think I would've felt a bit less worried about pickpockets, which are on my radar when I travel to any big cities and busy tourist spots.

Instead, throughout my trip, I found myself clutching my open tote bag tightly to keep it shut. I even tucked my phone into my waistband to try to keep it safe.

Plus, a crossbody would've been lighter and easier for me to carry. My shoulders were starting to feel sore after a few days of carrying the brunt of the weight of my belongings.

I should've taken out local currency before my trip.

I don't always exchange local currency before going abroad, but on this trip, I found myself in situations where I wish I had.

For example, there were times when I wanted to tip street vendors or service workers but didn't have any cash. Another time, at a pub, my friend had to cover me for the night because they didn't accept my type of credit card.

Although most places I went took cards and Apple Pay, I wish I had made the extra effort to visit my local bank before the trip and travel with local currency — just enough for moments like this.

Not bringing a credit card with no foreign transaction fee ended up costing me a decent amount of money.

Another money mistake I made abroad was not looking into a credit card without foreign transaction fees.

I relied on my regular card for most of my spending in Scotland, and by the end of the trip, those little fees had added up to about $150.

It's an easy thing to overlook, but doing a bit of research beforehand could've saved me some money.

Next time, I'll plan in advance and apply for one that allows me to swipe without being charged for every purchase.

This story was originally published on November 14, 2025, and most recently updated on September 29, 2026.

• The US counter-drone task force said it is prepared to invest billions of dollars in new systems.
• Officials said the types of technologies range from sensors to kinetic weapons for shooting down drones.
• The US has a marketplace for agencies and military units to buy counter-UAS weapons they specifically need.

The US task force leading the military's response to the drone threat is ready to spend billions of dollars on contracts for counter-drone technologies, betting that a mixed arsenal will be needed to contend with one of the fast-growing battlefield problems.

Officials said the investment would help scale different technologies so that more federal agencies and military units can get what they need for specific requirements, environments, and threats. The contracts mark the latest step in accelerating the adoption of counter-drone systems, the urgency driven by ongoing conflicts and the rapid proliferation of drones.

On Tuesday, the Joint Interagency Task Force 401, or JIATF-401, announced a new set of enterprise contracts for counter-drone and counter-uncrewed aerial system technologies with a combined ceiling of nearly $7 billion.

"I'll tell you there isn't one answer to the drone threat," Brent Ingraham, assistant secretary of the Army for acquisitions, logistics, and technology, told reporters. "So we didn't build around one solution."

The new contracts include a range of companies and counter-UAS capabilities, including sensors and other non-kinetic options for detecting and disabling drones, as well as kinetic weapons for shooting them down. Officials said the contracts gave agencies more options going forward rather than relying completely on a specific company or system.

"I think it solves a couple of problems," Brig. Gen. Matthew Ross, director of JIATF-401, said during a roundtable discussion. "Number one is it makes sure that these capabilities that are going to be proliferated a ton are available to our formations." The contracts also help widen the availability of systems that may have been seen as specific to the Department of Defense.

JIATF-401 replaced the Pentagon's previous counter-drone force and covers the military as well as federal, state, and local agencies.

Earlier this year, the task force stood up a drone marketplace where units and agencies can buy systems. Efforts have been underway to make the marketplace available to international partners and allies as well. Earlier this month, Australia became the first ally to successfully procure technology from the marketplace.

While the war in Ukraine has incentivized the US to adapt to the new demands of modern drone warfare, other incidents and attacks have added urgency. Hostile drones killed six US service members in Kuwait in March and three soldiers in Jordan in 2024. An investigation into the latter, obtained by Business Insider, found that the military was insufficiently prepared for the threat.

Military officials have said they see no silver bullet for defeating drones that can be easily distributed across the larger force; instead, a variety of technologies need to be available to meet specific requirements. "If you think about 11th Airborne in Alaska or 1st Armored Division, both Army units, they have very different needs in terms of counter-UAS capability," Ross said.

Officials have also emphasized the importance of building a layered defense against drones with systems that can detect, disable, and destroy threats at different ranges. The new contracts are intended to give units access to that necessary mix of capabilities.

The WNBA Playoffs have officially tipped off, and the battle for the ring is underway. The games are spread far and wide, so we've rounded up everything you need to know about where to watch the WNBA Playoffs below.

If you're hoping to tune in, you've come to the right place. You can live stream the WNBA Playoffs through Prime Video and a mix of YouTube TV or Peacock Premium and ESPN Unlimited (with a few early-round exceptions). You can access your streaming options from anywhere with a VPN.

Where to watch the WNBA Playoffs in the US

The 2026 WNBA Playoffs are spread across ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, NBC, USA, NBC Sports Network/Peacock, and Prime Video in the United States. The first round will show games on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, USA/CNBC, and Prime Video. The semifinals will air on ABC, NBC/Peacock/NBCSN, and ESPN. The Finals will air on NBC and USA and live stream in full on Peacock.

Peacock will carry NBC, NBCSN, and most USA games. Subscriptions start at $13 a month for Peacock Premium, but you can upgrade to Peacock Premium Plus for $20 a month and unlock ad-free on-demand streaming and a full live stream of your local NBC station. It's worth noting that it looks like Round 1 USA/CNBC games won't be available on Peacock, so you'll need a live TV service like YouTube TV (more on that below) if you're hoping to catch a few of those early games.

ESPN Unlimited will carry live streams of every ABC, ESPN, and ESPN2 game. Subscriptions cost $32 a month, but you can save some money each month by opting for one of the Disney Plus bundles.

Prime Video is included in all Amazon Prime subscriptions, which cost $15 a month after a free trial for new customers. If you're only interested in streaming and don't want other Amazon perks, you can get Prime Video on its own for $9 a month.

You can also live stream most games (other than streaming exclusives, like on Prime Video) through a live TV streaming service. YouTube TV is one of the best options with ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, NBC, NBCN, and USA. The Main plan (100+ channels) costs $83 a month, but new users can get $15 a month off their first five months after a free trial. The Sports plan (30+) channels costs $65 a month, but new users can get $20 a month off their first six months after a free trial. These plans also unlock access to ESPN Unlimited live streams.

How to watch the WNBA Playoffs from anywhere

If you're traveling abroad, you can still keep up with your usual streaming options with the help of a VPN. Short for virtual private networks, VPNs are easy-to-use tech tools that let people temporarily alter their virtual locations. This way, they can access their favorite websites and apps from anywhere, the same way they would back home. Since the services we've highlighted require US methods of payment, this option will work best for Americans who are just traveling away from home.

NordVPN is one of the best VPNs on the market. It's speedy, user-friendly, and has a 30-day money-back guarantee.

• See more: Best Peacock promo codes | Best sports streaming services | ESPN streaming service

WNBA Playoffs schedule

What has happened so far?

So far, all of the top seeds beat the lower seeds in the first game of Round 1, with one major exception. The No. 8 New York Liberty beat the No. 1 Minnesota Lynx 91-75 in Game 1. The two teams notably met during the 2024 Finals, wherein the Liberty beat the Lynx in a winner-take-all Game 5 and earned their first championship.

Otherwise, the top seeds came out on top in the first game over the weekend. The No. 3 Las Vegas Aces beat the No. 6 Indiana Fever, the No. 2 Golden State Valkyries beat the No. 7 Dallas Wings, and the No. 4 Atlanta Dream beat the No. 5 Washington Mystics.

Who won the 2025 WNBA Finals?

The Las Vegas Aces, led by A'ja Wilson, won the 2025 WNBA Finals in a four-game sweep of the Phoenix Mercury. The Aces also won in 2022 and 2023.

Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

• Fair Isaac stock plunged on Tuesday.
• FHFA director Bill Pulte said Fannie and Freddie will now also incorporate VantageScore into mortgage pricing.
• Rocket Mortgage, meanwhile, announced it will also use VantageScore for underwriting mortgages.

The move: Fair Isaac Corporation stock plunged as much as 29% on Tuesday to a low of $595.19, extending declines over the past month. Shares of the financial data and credit reporting company are down 64% year to date.

Why: FICO stock dropped after Bill Pulte, the director of the Federal Housing Finance Agency, said that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac would incorporate a new metric to assess mortgage borrowers' creditworthiness, adding VantageScore into the mix. The move breaks FICO's three-decade long grip on mortgage underwriting. VantageScore is a model that pulls in data from three other credit reporting agencies, Experian, TransUnions, and Equifax.

"We are Simplifying Mortgage Pricing following feedback from lenders and consumers," Pulte wrote on X. "Instead of two separate pricing grids, which makes zero sense, Fannie and Freddie are hereby moving to ONE PRICING GRID with VantageScore joining the existing FICO Classic pricing grid."

This wasn't the only bad news weighing on FICO stock, though. On Monday, Rocket Mortgage announced that it will be using VantageScore 4.0 as its preferred model for all eligible loans, a move which Pulte posted in support of.

What it means: The move is a blow to FICO, which has been the exclusive credit-reporting agency for government-backed mortgages since the mid-1990s.

For borrowers, it could be a positive development, pulling in credit history from a wider range of sources to potentially get more favorable pricing at a time when mortgage rates are surging past 7% nationwide.

There's little silver lining for FICO, however, and Rocket's decision could compel other lenders to start prioritizing VantageScore as well.

Deutsche Bank maintains a buy rating on FICOstock, but it didn't downplay the difficulties that the company may be facing.

"We would have expected continuing gaming and for lenders to optimize pricing with this change," the bank wrote in a note to investors. "However, the announcement from Rocket this evening following this change is meaningfully negative and consequential for FICO."

• Data centers and artificial intelligence have become a part of everyday conversation for Americans.
• Data center energy consumption has entered those conversations, too.
• The largest planned AI campuses could require more than 10 gigawatts of electricity.

Some Americans have new next-door neighbors: data centers.

The US has been building these computing facilities for decades, but development has ramped up dramatically in recent years as AI increasingly drives demand for computing power.

Business Insider compiled a list of some of these enormous US data-center projects to illustrate the scale of what's being built. Those on the list have at least 1 gigawatt of capacity and have broken ground.

Among the largest is a city-sized campus in Texas pursuing up to 17 gigawatts of power capacity. Another in Ohio is aiming to have up to 10 gigawatts of data-center capacity, most of which OpenAI has contracted to use. For reference, 1 gigawatt of electricity continuously supplied for a year could power roughly 835,000 average American homes.

In total, the Pew Research Center says the US has more than 3,000 operating data centers nationwide and over 1,500 more under development, mostly in rural areas. According to data from the Energy Institute's 2026 Statistical Review of World Energy, US data centers accounted for nearly 40% of global data-center electricity use in 2025, consuming about 313 terawatt-hours. That's more electricity than all of Australia used that year.

Planned capacity is the closest public proxy for how much computing these AI campuses can support, and that's important because the electricity and water needed to run their servers and cooling systems can have major implications for local grids and sustainability.

Residents affected by developments in places like Texas and Utah have pushed back over concerns about noise, property values, and the effects on nearby communities. New York has temporarily paused the construction of new large-scale AI data centers.

Still, the 2025 US Data Center Energy Usage Report from Berkeley Lab projects that data centers will consume 11.8% of US electricity by 2030, up from about 4.4% in 2023. Oracle, SB Energy, xAI, Google, and Meta are among the leading developers and operators.

Here's a closer look at some of the largest AI data-center campuses being built.

Meta Lebanon Campus — Indiana

Mark Zuckerberg's Meta currently has 21 data centers under construction. Its Lebanon, Indiana, data center is one of its biggest investments — and the company's second in the state.

The $10 billion center, which broke ground in early 2026, is planned to deliver 1 gigawatt of capacity and span 1,500 acres.

It's expected to be completed by early 2028. Neighbors have complained about light pollution from the construction, while residents across Indiana have urged state lawmakers to regulate the growing data-center industry.

Meta El Paso Data Center — Texas

Meta's data center in El Paso, Texas, is planned to be powered by 1 gigawatt of capacity and span roughly 1,000 acres. It originally called for $1.5 billion in investment, which later increased to $10 billion.

The center will support more than 300 workers once complete, while around 4,000 construction workers are expected to build it out.

The site broke ground in October 2025 and is expected to be finished in 2028. The site has also sparked backlash from residents.

Project Freebird (Stargate) — Texas

Project Freebird is part of Stargate, the AI-infrastructure initiative co-led by OpenAI and SoftBank, which OpenAI said in January 2025 would invest up to $500 billion in US infrastructure.

Freebird will be a 1.2-gigawatt data center campus in Milam County, Texas, near Austin. The first phase is expected to be completed by October, while additional phases are planned through 2028. Construction began in 2025.

The site, being developed by SB Energy, a SoftBank-backed infrastructure company, will span roughly 595 acres. Phase 1 has an estimated construction cost of $470 million, while total investment in the broader project is expected to range from $1.8 billion to $3 billion.

Fort Wayne Data Center — Indiana

In 2024, Google broke ground on a $2 billion data center campus in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to support its AI and cloud operations.

The campus is expected to require up to 1.2 gigawatts of power at full build-out. Some Indiana politicians have expressed concern about the amount of power required to run the data center and who will foot the energy bill.

"If companies want to build a data center here, and we have to build new power generation for them, then they need to share in that risk," Indiana Rep. Ed Soliday, a Republican, previously told Business Insider. "There are a couple of data center folks who have said, 'Oh no, that's not fair.' Yes, it is. Grandma down the street shouldn't have to pay for your dreams."

Stargate Abilene — Texas

The Stargate AI data center campus outside Abilene, Texas, is expected to deliver 1.2 gigawatts of capacity. Crusoe, the lead developer and builder behind the project, broke ground on the campus in June 2024. The first phase is already operational.

The second phase, which is under construction, is backed by a $15 billion joint venture between Crusoe, Blue Owl Capital, and Primary Digital Infrastructure. It will add six buildings to the campus, bringing the total to eight and the planned capacity to 1.2 gigawatts. The site will span 875 acres.

Nebius AI Factory — Missouri

Nebius' data center in Independence, Missouri, will span roughly 400 acres and reach a capacity of up to 1.2 gigawatts. The company broke ground in May and is expected to bring roughly 1,200 construction jobs and 130 permanent jobs.

Nebius has not announced a total investment amount, though the city expects to begin collecting tax revenue from the campus in 2028.

The site hasn't come without controversy. A group of citizens is suing the city of Independence and companies involved with the project, alleging 16 counts, including claims that the city violated Missouri's Sunshine Law several times by failing to provide finalized data center construction plans. Nebius did not offer a comment.

CloudBurst San Marcos Data Center I — Texas

CloudBurst's San Marcos Data Center I is a planned 1.2-gigawatt capacity campus on 706 acres in central Texas. Guadalupe County approved a $500 million tax abatement for the project.

The company and its development partner, Evolve, broke ground in November 2025, with an initial 50-megawatt phase expected to be complete by late 2026. Construction is expected to be complete in 2029.

San Marcos residents have protested proposed data centers over water and energy concerns. The city has since become the first in Texas to ban new data centers, though the ban won't stop CloudBurst's project, which is outside city limits.

The Barn Data Center — Michigan

The Barn, part of the Stargate project, is a multi-billion-dollar AI data center campus in Saline Township, southwest of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Related Digital, a data-center developer, is building the campus for Oracle as part of its partnership with OpenAI. Construction for The Barn began in June.

The campus will comprise three data center buildings with a combined capacity of 1.4 gigawatts. The $16 billion project is backed by Related Digital and investment firm Blackstone. The first facilities are expected to enter service by the end of 2027.

Local residents have protested against the data center, citing concerns about its impact on the grid and pollution.

Stargate Frontier Campus — Texas

The Stargate Frontier Campus, developed by Vantage Data Centers, will be a 1.4 gigawatt, 1,200-acre data center in Shackelford County, Texas, near Albany in north-central Texas.

The campus is part of the broader Stargate initiative led by OpenAI, Oracle, and other partners, and is being designed for ultra-high-density AI workloads. Vantage plans to invest more than $25 billion in the project, which is expected to be fully built out by 2028.

Construction of the center began in late 2025.

xAI Colossus 2 — Tennessee

Elon Musk's xAI is building Colossus 2 to power Grok, the AI chatbot on X. Construction began in 2025 in Memphis, Tennessee, and the company has said it plans to expand the site to 1.5 gigawatts. The nonprofit research institute Epoch AI estimates its current capacity at about 946 megawatts.

Environmental justice groups, led by the NAACP, sued xAI earlier this year, alleging that the company installed and operated gas turbines that power Colossus 2 in nearby Southaven, Mississippi, without the required air permits. In March, Mississippi regulators approved a permit for xAI to build and operate a new fleet of turbines at the site.

Local residents have also filed a class-action lawsuit against xAI, MZX Tech, and SpaceX, alleging that noise and vibrations from the gas turbines have disrupted their lives and harmed their property values.

Project Jupiter — New Mexico

Developed by infrastructure companies STACK Infrastructure and BorderPlex Digital Assets, Project Jupiter will be an AI data center campus in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, near the Texas border. It is part of the Stargate initiative and is expected to support Oracle's AI-computing operations for OpenAI.

Construction for Project Jupiter began in September 2025. The campus's planned on-site power system could include up to 2.45 gigawatts of Bloom Energy fuel cells, replacing an earlier proposal centered on gas turbines and diesel generators.

In May, Oracle ditched its plan to construct a natural gas plant to power Project Jupiter, following local residents' concerns over the potential negative water usage and air pollution effects it could cause.

Oracle issued a force majeure notice in September due to potential delays in the project's power infrastructure, though it says the campus remains on track for 2028.

Meta Hyperion — Louisiana

Meta's Hyperion AI data center in rural northeast Louisiana, backed by more than $50 billion in investment, will span more than 3,600 acres and is planned to deliver 5 gigawatts of capacity once fully developed. Hyperion broke ground in December 2024.

Meta says Hyperion is designed to train and run its artificial-intelligence systems. Earlier this year, Louisiana gave Meta $3.3 billion in tax breaks for Meta to build Hyperion. The project is expected to be completed in 2030.

Since the center is located in a rural part of the state, the influx of 7,500 trade and construction workers has spurred a housing boom, with mobile homes built for workers that rent for $3,000 a month.

Still, the project has also faced pushback from local residents and environmental groups concerned about its impact on water, energy use, and the surrounding community.

PORTS-Pike Technology Campus — Ohio

The Department of Energy said SB Energy broke ground in March in Ohio on the planned AI and cloud campus at the former Portsmouth Gaseous Diffusion Plant, known as PORTS. The campus will span private land and remediated federal land leased from the DOE.

The Nvidia-backed project is expected to include up to 10 gigawatts of data-center capacity, with OpenAI set to use up to 8 gigawatts of it for its workloads.

The project has raised concerns about potential health and environmental risks associated with the site's history as a uranium enrichment plant.

Project Matador — Texas

Fermi America's Project Matador, also called HyperGrid, is an AI data center and private power campus being built near Amarillo, Texas.

Fermi, which was co-founded in 2025 by former Texas Gov. and US Energy Secretary Rick Perry, said it is pursuing roughly 17 gigawatts of private power for the campus, up from the initially planned 11 gigawatts. That means the campus would generate much of its own electricity on-site rather than relying entirely on the public grid. The company says 6 gigawatts have been permitted so far.

Fermi has a 99-year land lease with the Texas Tech University System for the core site, and the project could span roughly 8,400 acres at full build-out. Fermi says construction is underway, with completion planned for the 2030s, and AI cloud company TensorWave has signed a 15-year lease expected to generate about $6.5 billion in contracted revenue for the first phase. Fermi is also developing a cooling system designed to substantially reduce water use.

The company was hit with a class action lawsuit earlier this year. The investor lawsuit alleges Fermi misled investors about the status and prospects of Project Matador; its shares fell after Amazon withdrew a $150 million construction advance in December 2025.

Meta, Google, Oracle, Fermi America, CloudBurst, and xAI did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider. SB Energy did not offer a comment.

• Disney is turning to layoffs for the third time since mid-March, when Josh D'Amaro became CEO.
• A person familiar with the change confirmed the new round of cuts on Tuesday.
• D'Amaro's company downsized its marketing team in April and cut ESPN staffers in July.

Disney is laying off employees for the third time since CEO Josh D'Amaro took the top job in mid-March.

The Mouse House is cutting several hundred employees across teams, including tech and HR, a person familiar with the move confirmed to Business Insider. Deadline first reported Tuesday's cuts.

This round of layoffs impacts fewer workers than Disney's previous staff reductions this year, a second person familiar with the changes said.

Disney did a major round of layoffs in mid-April, less than a month after D'Amaro took over for longtime CEO Bob Iger. These cuts came as Disney shook up its marketing organization, though staffers on other teams, including some at ESPN, were also impacted.

D'Amaro said in an April memo that the cuts were "not a reflection of their contributions, or of the overall strength of the company."

Another round of cuts came in July. ESPN was hit especially hard as the sports giant integrated employees from the NFL Network, which it acquired earlier this year.

Laid-off Disney employees get severance based on their rank and tenure. Non-managers who've been at the company for less than five years get four weeks of pay, while those who've been there more than five years get one week of pay a year for up to 52 weeks.

D'Amaro has made his mark on Disney by emphasizing unity and collaboration across teams, prioritizing a streaming super app, and investing in AI and tech, including by hiring the first-ever company-wide tech chief in mid-September.

"Our performance reflects the strength of our businesses, the enduring power of our stories and brands, and, most importantly, the extraordinary work you do every day," D'Amaro told employees in August after the company exceeded earnings expectations.

Disney shares are up 6% since D'Amaro took over on March 18. US stocks, as measured by the S&P 500, are up 15.6% in that span.

• A woman was diagnosed with early ovarian cancer after she had an irregular menstrual period.
• She was 37, more than a decade younger than typical patients, and a rare case of stage 1.
• Ovarian cancers are on the rise in younger people and are typically missed due to subtle symptoms.

In front of a crowd of about a thousand people, Natalie May stepped onstage to talk about something she'd barely even spoken to close friends about — her vagina.

Her husband was mortified.

But by 2018, May had gotten used to being known as "the vagina lady" to audiences ranging from 12 to 200, sharing her own experience to help others recognize the early warning signs of ovarian cancer.

"It's not just something that happens to someone else. It can happen to us," she told Business Insider.

May, who lives in Adelaide, Australia, was 37 years old when she was diagnosed with stage 1 ovarian cancer.

Now in her 50s and one of Australia's leading papercraft experts, May uses her scrapbooking classes and workshops to raise awareness that cancer can often develop for months if symptoms go unnoticed.

Cancer has become a growing concern for younger people, as more patients in their 20s and 30s are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, colon cancer, and breast cancer.

"There are so many different things put down to 'just being a woman.' That's bullshit," May said. "You really need to know what's normal for your own body."

Subtle signs of ovarian cancer

Around 2013, May noticed bright red spotting that escalated to full bleeding, which was unusual because she had recently finished her normal menstrual cycle.

"It was out of the blue," May said. "Within two days, I was going through a pad an hour."

She booked an appointment with her primary care doctor, who referred her for follow-up scans after initial testing revealed she had lost a lot of blood.

May was so confident that the follow-up appointment would be mundane, she brought her husband and daughter, 10 years old at the time, along with her. She had no family history of cancer, and a diagnosis never crossed her mind.

Then the doctor came in to discuss the results. When the nurse first took her daughter out of the room, May knew something was seriously wrong.

Imaging had found a six-centimeter cyst on her left ovary, which they suspected was cancerous. The initial diagnosis felt like "a complete and total blur" of panic and shock, she recalled.

Leading up to the diagnosis, May said she had felt she was in the best shape of her life, working with a personal trainer and exercising regularly. She had been losing weight: in retrospect, an early symptom of cancer.

With no other common signs of ovarian cancer, like bloating or abdominal pain, it would have been easy to ignore. May said trusting her gut and seeking help likely saved her life.

In the two weeks between the initial scan and her first surgery, the mass on her ovary had developed aggressively, nearly doubling in size.

"By listening to my body and acting straightaway rather than just pushing it aside, I prevented it from turning into stage two, three, or even four," May said.

Early treatment is key to surviving ovarian cancer

May didn't know much about ovarian cancer. She had to Google it when she got home from the doctor's appointment. She learned that stage 1 diagnoses are rare because the cancer often spreads before patients seek help.

While May said she was lucky to have an early diagnosis, her treatment plan was far from simple. She underwent an initial surgery to remove the cyst, followed by a radical hysterectomy.

Recovery involved two weeks in the hospital, unable to sit up or do much else, and the healing process was delayed by months of chemotherapy to help reduce the risk of any lingering cancer cells.

Ovarian cancer is highly prone to coming back after remission; some studies estimate that up to 70% of patients experience recurrence on average, and it's more likely to increase with later-stage cancers.

"It took probably four months for me to be able to walk, to drive unassisted, to get back to living," May said. "All of a sudden, I had to go completely dark and cancel a heap of jobs and stop what I was doing to go through all of this treatment."

Cancer is on the rise in younger people

For six months, May went to her chemotherapy appointment every Friday. It was there she first realized she was an outlier — more than a decade younger than the typical ovarian cancer patient in their early 60s.

"The only time I realized I was quite young was when I was sitting in the chemo ward, and I was the youngest person in the room," May added.

That was in 2013. Over the past decade, early-onset cases of multiple types of cancer have been increasingly common in the US.

May said advocacy has helped her work through the lasting mental health toll of her diagnosis, which led to anxiety and depression in the years after her treatment.

At her crafting workshops — predominantly attended by women — she takes comfort in being open and blunt about her cancer experience, urging women of all ages to know the signs.

"As women, we tend to put everybody else before ourselves, and we ignore symptoms," May said. "The thing we forget is that we can't look after other people unless we look after ourselves first."

• Anthropic's IPO prospectus is out, and the numbers are astonishing.
• For example, it spent $7.3 billion on computing and faces $518 billion in fresh commitments.
• Business Insider put together a list of what smart people are saying about those numbers.

Anthropic's IPO math is staggering.

The AI lab generated nearly $4.6 billion in revenue last year — about 12 times its 2024 total — while recording a $42 billion net loss, per an IPO prospectus seen by Reuters. The company spent $7.33 billion on compute and infrastructure in 2025 and has $518 billion in future cloud, computing, and infrastructure obligations.

The prospectus could value the company at $2 trillion, while the company is predicting an IPO after the November midterm elections, Reuters reported.

The report comes as Anthropic has been on a bit of a roller coaster ride. Employees, including CEO Dario Amodei, have warned that AI labs haven't secured a firm grasp on their autonomous AI systems amid reports of security breaches and hacking incidents. Anthropic dedicated 80 of the IPO's 261 pages to risk factors, per the Financial Times.

Meanwhile, last week, Anthropic released Claude Opus 5.5, its latest flagship model.

Here is what some smart techies and market watchers have said about the gobsmacking numbers. The company didn't immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

Lale Akoner, global market strategist at eToro

Akoner told Business Insider that the prospectus shows that Anthropic has a lot of work to do.

While the 2025 revenue growth shows how fast demand has accelerated, the "more meaningful figure is the $8.1 billion operating loss," she said, because the company is a "long way from proving it can turn rapid revenue growth into sustainable profits."

Still, if the IPO is successful, the effects could ripple through the market, Akoner said. She said it could set the stage for OpenAI's expected IPO and attract investment away from other tech companies.

"Ultimately, investors will need to decide whether Anthropic's growth can justify both its enormous valuation and its future spending commitments," she said.

Gary Marcus, professor emeritus of psychology at NYU

Marcus, a consistent AI skeptic, sees a perverse incentive.

"Anthropic's proposed valuation is easily calculated, as -50 times 2025 losses," he wrote on X. "The more they lose, the more they win!"

His post gets at the unease behind the huge numbers: Wall Street may reward companies for growth and infrastructure spending, well before they prove their businesses can generate consistent profits.

He also said that investors have to paper over concerns about rogue AI agents.

"You can only get there by largely ignoring all the ways things would go wrong," he wrote. "If I tell you that there is a 10% chance of annihilating humanity, the expected value is a loss of 800 million people, which would be by far the worst disaster in human history."

Ross Hendricks, an equity analyst at Porter & Company

Hendricks sees a bill hiding in Anthropic's fine print.

About $34 billion of the company's 2025 loss was a noncash accounting charge — meaning that amount did not leave the company's bank account last year. Instead, he said, the company could issue more shares, meaning early investors own a smaller slice of the company.

"The shareholder dilution on this will be something to behold," Hendricks wrote.

Jake Williams, cybersecurity risk expert

In a post on Bluesky, Williams zeroed in on another disclosure: nearly a quarter of Anthropic's 2025 revenue came from two customers.

"Siri, is it good when huge chunks of my revenue come from only two companies?" he wrote.

• OpenAI announced a $500 a month plan for ChatGPT.
• The Pro 500 plan includes access to "Ultrafast" computing, offering an 8x speed increase in Codex.
• The company also downgraded the compute allowance of its $200 a month plan.

ChatGPT has a brand new plan — with a hefty new price tag.

OpenAI announced a new subscription tier at its Tuesday DevDay. The Pro 500 plan will cost $500 a month, a $300 increase on what was formerly the company's most expensive plan.

The $500 plan will include access to "Ultrafast" computing for GPT-6 Astra in ChatGPT Work and Codex. The "Ultrafast" option promises an 8x increase in speed in Codex, OpenAI's coding tool.

The tier will also have OpenAI's highest included usage. While the average ChatGPT user may not care about this, it's top of mind for any coder who has hit their token limit.

Some eagle-eyed X users spotted test code for a $500 a month plan last week.

$500 a month is steep, totaling out to $6,000 a year. And that's only for OpenAI; AI subscribers could also hold subscriptions with Anthropic or Cursor.

Still, AI lovers previously told Business Insider that the highest-priced tier — then $200 a month — was worth it. Some considered it a necessary expense for their small businesses.

OpenAI also announced that it would reopen its $200 a month Pro plan, while downgrading its allowance.

The company paused sign-ups for the plan on September 10. Now, almost three weeks later, OpenAI is reopening the plan, but halving the compute.

The allowance will be 10x that of the $20 a month Plus plan, down from the previous 20x multiple. Chat messages in GPT-6 Pro will also decrease from 200 to 100 a week for these subscribers.

Existing subscribers will receive a one-time credit during the transition period.

Thibault Sottiaux, the engineering lead for OpenAI's Codex, explained the change in a Monday X post. The changes net out at half the dollar in API spend compared to the prior plan, he wrote.

"I wanted to make sure to share this change ahead of time so you can all understand it before we shower you with good news," Sottiaux wrote.

• OpenAI announced its new "always-on" AI agent product, Dots, at its DevDay conference on Tuesday.
• Dots will compete with Meta's Muse, part of a rush in the industry toward personal agents.
• A spate of other announcements included a new model, a $500 plan, and a collaboration feature.

OpenAI is throwing its hat in tech's shiniest new ring.

On Tuesday, the company unveiled a new product called Dots, its answer to the rise of "always-on" personal agents like Instinct and Meta's Muse. OpenAI's version will run on its frontier model GPT-6 Astra.

"I'm really surprised at what a difference this makes in my life," OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said at the company's annual DevDay conference in San Francisco. "I feel like I've finally gotten some of my attention back. I no longer feel quite addicted to my phone in the same way. It's the way I've always wanted to work with AI."

The releases of Muse and Instinct became a viral moment in Silicon Valley. OpenAI, without its own product, initially seemed to be slipping behind.

Dots will be built on an OpenAI model that is its best yet at computer use, or moving around apps and websites like a human. The agent runs on a cloud computer and can use some tools even when a user isn't actively delegating a task.

In a blog post, OpenAI said Dots — dot, if you just use one — are like having "intelligence is always working by your side." It cited the example of a Dot investigating a bug as soon as it was flagged.

Dots require a trade-off. Like Muse and Instinct, the more access you give it to your computer, apps, and messaging platforms, the more it will be capable of handling.

For many people, Meta may still be the easier choice. Muse is free, while Dots will roll out first only to Enterprise and Business Premium users and to ChatGPT Pro subscribers. OpenAI plans to expand the offering.

If OpenAI can afford the compute, it can roll out the new product to a huge user base. The AI lab gave a little toot of the horn on Tuesday, saying more than 1.2 billion people now use ChatGPT each week.

Before this summer, the top name in the personal AI agent race was OpenClaw, which launched in late 2025. OpenAI hired its creator, Peter Steinberger, in February.

A slew of other releases make OpenAI feel like Apple

The company made a spate of announcements on Tuesday. It unveiled ChatGPT Space, a new page on the app where coworkers can collaborate. It launched a new $500-a-month Pro plan, which grants access to the company's fastest modes. It also announced a new "OpenAI Marketplace" where the company lets customers direct their committed OpenAI spend toward partner companies.

And then there's the company's bread and butter: a new AI model. A day after announcing that it had shelved one of its new models, OpenAI revealed GPT-6.1 Sol, less capable than its Astra model but far cheaper.

When giant tech companies decide to build certain products, they can easily wipe away an entire startup's potential. While OpenAI isn't at the scale of Apple or Google, several Tuesday releases will set off alarms.

The new AI model Jev caught Silicon Valley's eye this month for its ability to make lightning-fast decisions. Meanwhile, OpenAI announced a new "Decisions API" to serve the same market.

A whole slate of startups peddle AI for slide decks; OpenAI also announced a collaborative version that allows exports to PowerPoint and Google Sheets.

The same goes for AI-powered notetaking. OpenAI now has its own version: a meeting plugin that takes notes, makes summaries, and then deletes the audio.

All told, OpenAI touts "more than 20 major announcements across ChatGPT, Codex, our models, and entirely new forms of working with AI."

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• I use screen time as a tool to balance parenting and my personal productivity needs.
• My son, 2, often watches educational content, Disney movies, and musicals.
• Watching TV helped my son develop social skills, and I have no regrets.

It's a cloudy afternoon and my 2-year-old is watching "The Lego Movie," while my husband works his 9-to-5 job.

I am in charge of our kid, the primary caregiver or stay-at-home-mom, if you will. But I have things to do too, and I can't afford a nanny. So for the next two hours, a movie will act as my babysitter. My kid is still and calm, safe on the couch while I type right next to him, checking things off my own to-do list.

I'll be the first to admit it's not a perfect set-up, but it's a necessary one.

Screens were a necessity

My child probably first laid eyes on a screen when he was 3 months old, and it's not something I regret. Many experts recommend that children not be exposed to screens until they are older than that. However, the only people I know among my mom friends who subscribe to this philosophy religiously are parents who can afford nannies, daily activities, or daycare.

For some parents who stay at home, especially with younger children, they are likely doing so due to the cost of childcare outweighing the paycheck they'd be making at a job. So when are those parents, parents like me, supposed to get a break?

There are benefits to screen time

I believe that educational content can be very enriching for children, so I allow my son to watch "Ms. Rachel," along with old '90s PBS shows like "Barney," which he watches on YouTube. These shows not only teach him skills that will prepare him for kindergarten but also teach empathy, kindness, and friendship. My son almost never throws tantrums, and I think a big part of that is the self-regulation he's learned from watching TV.

For movies, he enjoys Disney movies and musicals.

With the right curation from me, I see TV and film as a useful supplement for my child's growing brain. I also appreciate how it exposes him to culture. Films were a big part of my childhood memories, and I wouldn't want to deny my child the opportunity to grow up with old musicals and Disney movies, just like I did.

Not all screens are equal in my mind

I say all of this about screens with a big caveat: I don't think babies, toddlers, or even young children should have access to iPads. I have one that I use for work, but I've purposely kept it out of my toddler's hands. I don't think being so close to a screen and having unfiltered access to whatever the internet has to offer is good for a growing mind.

I also closely monitor the content my child watches and will continue to do so as he grows. We avoid offerings that I find overstimulating.

Screens are only part of our day

Our son is not sitting in front of the TV all day. It's usually an hour or so, here and there.

We also take trips to the the park and local museums multiple times a week. I read to him every day, and we spend a lot of time at our library. Ours has many programs that encourage kids to read, and we have followed them religiously since he was big enough to visit, such as the summer reading program. This program awards prizes for every hour a child reads, and we complete it every year.

In a perfect world, parents would have endless energy to entertain their children, and kids could be left to their own devices without fear of them getting themselves into trouble. But that's just not feasible for most stay-at-home parents. I know it's OK to take a break from time to time and put on a beloved movie for my kid to relax to. He's a person, too, and he deserves a break from the chaos as much as I do.

• After attending pastry school in France, I've learned the secrets to making the tastiest brownies.
• I've found using high-quality chocolate and thoroughly whipping the eggs leads to the best results.
• To elevate brownies even more, I like adding some nuts or caramel to the batter.

I'm a full-time baker who has attended pastry school in France, completed a baking course in China, and worked in several bakeries in New York City.

After spending countless hours in the kitchen testing numerous recipes over the years, I've learned what makes a delicious brownie, and what doesn't.

Brownies may look simple and have a short ingredient list, but achieving that perfect chocolatey flavor and fudgy texture comes down to a few small details.

Here are six tips for making perfect brownies at home.

For the best flavor, I love using high-quality chocolate or cocoa powder.

Since brownies are all about their rich flavor, I like to use a high-quality chocolate or cocoa powder.

Because chocolate has varying levels of fruitiness and bitterness, it can drastically change the flavor of any dessert, so I always recommend experimenting with different flavor profiles to find what tastes best.

For a darker color and richer flavor, I prefer Dutch-process cocoa powder over the regular version, which has a more reddish hue and can have acidic notes.

Adding the cocoa powder to the melted butter prevents a clumpy batter.

To get the fudgiest brownies, I love adding the cocoa powder to melted butter, which helps break up any clumps that could remain in the final product.

Once the butter is melted and still hot, I add the cocoa powder to the bowl and mix until smooth, then add the recipe's remaining ingredients. This process, called blooming, ensures the brownies have maximum flavor.

Throwing some espresso into the batter adds so much flavor.

To enhance the chocolate flavor in a brownie, I love to add 1 teaspoon of espresso powder or instant coffee to the batter.

Coffee and chocolate share similar flavor characteristics that complement each other in baked goods, creating a deeper flavor. When combined in brownie batter, the bitterness of the espresso helps balance the chocolate's sweetness.

Thoroughly beating the eggs creates a glossy finish.

A well-made brownie is known for the shiny skin that forms on top in the oven.

To achieve this, I always thoroughly whip the eggs with the sugar until they're light and fluffy and turn a pale yellow. This process, which can take up to 10 minutes, ensures that a large portion of the sugar dissolves into the eggs, helping to create a cracked top.

Even though this step requires a bit of patience, it always leads me to the best results.

Sprinkling in some unique toppings immediately elevates a brownie.

Brownies are fantastic on their own, but they're also easy to customize with all sorts of toppings.

I love folding in some chopped chocolate, nuts, or crushed cookies. Or, to really take it to the next level, I like swirling in peanut butter, tahini, or caramel — and finish with some flaky salt on top when they're right out of the oven. However, I never overload the batter with too many additions, since that could impact the texture and baking time.

Likewise, a brownie can serve as a great base for whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, fruit, or a layer of chocolate ganache.

My personal favorite is a brownie topped with tangy cream-cheese frosting.

I never overbake the brownies.

Brownie batter has a high sugar content, and too much time in the oven can result in very dry, chewy brownies due to excessive caramelization and a lack of moisture. So, I usually err on the side of underbaking the brownies rather than overdoing them.

To test if the brownies are done, I just stick a toothpick in the center of the pan. The toothpick should have moist crumbs on it, since a completely cooked brownie may still be a little soft in the middle when fresh out of the oven.

For clean slices, I let the brownies cool completely before cutting into them. To speed up this process, I sometimes chill them in the fridge for an hour.

• When looking for a three-bedroom home, we found a place for $1,000 on an island in Maine.
• We took a trip with our baby, fell in love with the island, and decided to move there.
• Three years later, I'm so glad we moved here, despite the occasional challenges.

Three years ago, we were in Indiana. My husband Kevin was finishing grad school, and I was absently, fruitlessly scrolling through Zillow while our baby was napping in his crib.

Kevin had just secured a remote job, which opened the whole country up to us. This was exciting, until I realized we needed three bedrooms: one for us, one for our baby, and a third for a remote workspace.

A three-bedroom house on one income is hard to swing in most parts of the country, and I was feeling increasingly depressed about my search.

We're both from New Jersey, and we really wanted to get back to the coast. It quickly became apparent that homes in New Jersey were out of our price range, so I kept zooming out (and out and out) on the map, certain that we'd have nowhere to go.

And that's when a little pin popped up off the coast of Maine.

At first, the opportunity seemed too good to be true

I clicked on the listing and saw a three-bedroom house priced at $1,000 a month. After all of my searching, this really felt unlikely. Even more suspicious: The only picture was a blueprint. The house hadn't even been built yet.

Some more sleuthing revealed that the project was being led by the Cranberry Isles Realty Trust (CIRT), an organization that provides affordable year-round housing on both Great and Little Cranberry Island.

The website described a tight-knit community set against a backdrop of ocean, pine trees, boats docked in a harbor, and the mountains of Acadia National Park across the bay. At this point in my life, I hadn't even considered there being towns on islands that were only accessible by boat.

Once we confirmed the listing was indeed real, we had some questions … and some big conversations.

Deciding where to go is hard on its own, but choosing where to move with a young baby is even tougher. We weren't just deciding where to live, but where our baby would first learn about the world.

The idea that he could experience untouched nature right outside our door was enticing. As was the idea of raising him in a real community, one where everyone knows each other and where the older kids roam free together in the summer — something that I didn't think existed anymore.

The deal also felt too good to pass up. It didn't feel like we could comfortably live anywhere else in the country for $1,000 a month.

This opportunity was strange, new, and a little scary, but also exciting … so we put in our application.

We fell in love with the island immediately

At first, it was just a daydream. We weren't sure we'd get selected — and weren't even sure we would move if we were — but it was a nice life to imagine.

About a month later, we got an email that we were scheduled for an interview, and we decided it was time to take a trip out to the island. We took a road trip with our then-4-month-old, and the next morning, we got on a small boat.

This boat is the official mail boat for the islands, meaning it transports all of our packages. It also transports people — this is how those without their own boats travel back and forth to the mainland.

We left our car behind and took the 20-minute commute to the place we would eventually call home.

It was a less-than-ideal June day, 56 degrees and raining. And still, the peace we felt in that moment is what lingered in our minds for months as we considered the potential of this move.

What struck us most was the quiet. There were no highways, and not a lot of people. We learned that there are around 60 year-round residents, and 250 in the summer.

Surprisingly, it was soothing to realize that without a boat, we wouldn't be able to go anywhere until the ferry came back: When you're here, you're here. It was a sense of place and presence I hadn't experienced anywhere else.

For two people from New Jersey, where there are a million places to go at all times, this was thrilling. And it set still an anxiety I have had running inside me for decades.

There are challenges, but I'm so glad we moved here

Of course, living on Great Cranberry Island also comes with difficulties.

A trip to the grocery store or a doctor's appointment can end up taking the whole day. The ferry schedule determines when we have to rush back to the boat.

Sometimes there are several days in a row when the boats don't run because of the wind, so we have to keep too many diapers on hand at all times, and reusable ones on standby. The winters here are long, too, and the feeling of isolation starts to creep up on you.

All of this is outweighed, though, by the breathtaking beauty of this place and a community that scrambles to help one another when needed.

I question almost everything I do as a parent, but when my boys (now plural, ages two and three) confidently navigate the trails, or hand me sea glass on the beach, or greet our island neighbors by name and with a smile, I'm certain we're in the right place — and I feel so lucky to have found it.

• Wait, Meta has how many apps now?
• Photos, vibe coding, and AI assistants: Meta has launched 7 new apps this year.
• The tech giant is one of many racing to build the AI era's Instagram-scale hit.

Meta is on an app rampage that extends far beyond its hit AI personal assistant, Muse.

The tech giant has released seven new apps so far in 2026. They range from getting back to Meta's basics of sharing photos to testing AI use cases for everyday people.

It's all part of Meta's biggest task at hand right now: Winning the race to build the AI era's Facebook or Instagram.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has also credited AI with helping the company quickly turn new ideas into real products.

"AI is helping our teams speed up product development," he told investors during Meta's July earnings call. "I expect it to become a lot easier to ship new apps, so we're planning to build out more ideas and use our recommendation systems to scale them to the people who will find them interesting, as we've done with Threads."

In May, Meta globally launched Instants, a Snapchat-like app that it spun out of Instagram. In August, it released Pocket, a vibe-coding social app, and began testing an AI-powered bedtime story app, Storytime, in some regions.

Meta also recently shipped three new Facebook apps: Forum (for groups), Seller (for Facebook Marketplace), and Creator Studio (for Facebook content creators).

"They're constantly still trying to innovate," Amy Wu Martin, an investor at Menlo Ventures, told Business Insider.

This isn't Meta's first time throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing what sticks. In the 2010s, Facebook had a Creative Labs team that launched a handful of apps. In 2019, the company announced its New Product Experimentation org, which tested, launched, and ultimately shut down several apps, from livestreaming to social apps for music and couples.

The NPE org was short-lived, however, and was deprioritized following Meta's major layoffs in late 2022. Now, the company is embracing new products again with open arms.

One big reason: the success of Threads.

Threads, Meta's bid to compete with X (formerly Twitter), was one of the company's first successful breakout apps added to its roster in recent years. Since its launch in 2023, Meta has touted the social app's growth. In July, Zuckerberg shared that Threads had surpassed 500 million monthly active users, "making it the fastest-growing conversation app ever." The app welcomed advertising at the start of the year, too.

Meta's AI advantage

While AI has ushered in a wave of new ideas for consumer-facing apps, there haven't been "a lot of winners yet," Martin said.

That leaves Meta — with massive resources compared to a scrappy startup — at an advantage.

Forrester principal analyst Kate Winick said that, with Muse, Meta is "going back to its roots."

The company is "figuring out how to put a very accessible, very friendly consumer-centric wrapper around technology that exists elsewhere," she added.

Meta didn't invent the AI personal assistant — startups like Instinct, Town, or Poke have stirred industry buzz — but the company made lots of noise with Muse's rollout.

The biggest leg up Meta has for Muse, as well as for any app it's pushing, is the billions of users already in its ecosystem. In July, Zuckerberg said that 3.6 billion people use "at least one of our apps each day."

When Meta launches an app, it can instantly promote it to its existing users.

Have you opened Instagram in the last few weeks? If you have, odds are you've seen an advertisement from Meta suggesting you try out Muse.

Meta employed that same strategy to funnel Instagram and, eventually, Facebook users over to Threads.

Launching an app into the void no longer cuts it. To stand out in the noise, Meta needs to pour gas on the flame. The company seems to be learning a lesson from its previous app flops by "putting the full might of the company" behind pushing its newest and latest, Winick said.

Tempering the super app dream

If you download all of Meta's major apps — in addition to the Holy Trinity of Instagram, Facebook, and WhatsApp — that leaves you with 14 Meta-owned apps.

Move all those apps to one iPhone page, and it takes up about half the screen.

Instead of consolidating everything into one giant super app, Meta is going for a sprawling approach.

Dreams of a super app aren't ancient history. Only a few years ago, Meta seemed to be morphing Instagram into a super app with video, photos, livestreaming, shopping, and more. Meanwhile, in China, WeChat dominates as the everything app. Tech executives from X's Elon Musk to Microsoft's Satya Nadella have shared their super app aspirations.

"In the Western markets at least, the super app has not been a form factor that has really taken hold," Martin said. "People want to use an app for a specific thing."

Meta seems to be giving that a shot.

Want to send a disappearing photo to a friend, but not on Instagram DMs? Open Instants. Want to sell a piece of furniture on Marketplace but don't want to deal with the distractions of the Facebook app? Open Seller.

This approach could also help Meta as it pushes into subscriptions and looks for potential bundles.

"They're really creating an ecosystem" instead of one massive app, Winick said. "And it's persuasive."

• More NATO allies are buying a US-made interceptor that Ukraine has used effectively against Russian drones.
• At least six countries have now bought or plan to buy the Merops system, a US defense official said.
• NATO is looking to harden its borders with counter-drone tech amid repeated airspace violations.

More NATO countries are buying a counter-drone system proven in Ukraine, a US defense official told Business Insider, as allies look to harden their defenses against repeated airspace incursions.

At least six countries have either purchased the American-made Merops system or are in the process of doing so. Most of them are NATO countries on the Eastern flank, the defense official said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss the developments.

A source close to Perennial Autonomy, the US defense firm that makes Merops and other drones used in Ukraine, confirmed there is significant interest in the system across NATO's Eastern flank.

There were only three NATO Merops operators in November 2025. The updated figure, which has not been reported previously, underscores the rising interest in cheap interceptor drones among the US and its European allies.

Merops consists of a radar, launcher, ground control station, and a $15,000 interceptor that can reach speeds of more than 175 mph. The interceptor uses artificial intelligence to navigate areas saturated with electronic warfare, a common challenge in Ukraine.

The interceptor can be launched from flexible locations, including the bed of a pickup truck, and destroys its targets by colliding with them or exploding in proximity. The system as a whole is operated by a small crew that can be trained in a matter of days.

Merops was first deployed to Ukraine, where it has been used to down thousands of Russian drones, including armed attack aircraft. Western military officials have lauded the system's proven success in this war.

Poland and Romania purchased and deployed Merops after Russian drones violated NATO airspace in September 2025. Lithuania said in April that it planned to buy a test batch of systems.

The US Army, an early Merops operator, deployed the system to the Middle East at the start of the Iran war. Dan Driscoll, then the Army secretary, said earlier this year that the service had purchased thousands of interceptors. American troops have since used the system to destroy at least one Iranian drone in the region.

Merops is much cheaper than many other counter-drone systems in the US arsenal; the interceptor, at $15,000 apiece, can kill a drone that costs twice as much while allowing troops to save their high-end missiles for more challenging threats.

Surging interest in Merops among NATO countries comes as part of a broader push to harden the Eastern flank — which includes allied countries from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea — with sensors, interceptors, and other technology to counter drones.

NATO's Eastern flank has seen a spike in airspace violations in recent months, with Western officials repeatedly blaming Russia for drone incursions that often lead allies to scramble expensive fighter aircraft in response.

Sending pilots in crewed fighter jets after cheap drones with expensive air-to-air missiles isn't an ideal solution, so NATO countries have been seeking cheaper methods to engage drones. The US defense official said that Eastern flank allies are also buying additional counter-drone technology beyond Merops. They did not specify which systems.

Lt. Col. Adam Scher, a spokesperson for Joint Interagency Task Force 401, a US Department of Defense organization that coordinates counter-drone efforts across the military and federal agencies, said that the task force helps allies and partners rapidly acquire advanced technology in response to the evolving drone threat.

"There is no silver bullet" for drone defense, Scher told Business Insider, so the task force, along with US allies and partners, continues "to build a layered defense that requires the purchase of sensors, active and passive radars, cameras, as well as non-kinetic and kinetic effectors to ensure our warfighters have the best available technology to protect themselves from the threats caused by the illicit use of drones."

• When I applied to grad school, I knew I wanted to go to Columbia University in New York City.
• But then the University of Pennsylvania offered me a scholarship that would reduce my costs.
• I still chose Columbia because of the New York prestige, but I wonder if I made the right choice.

When I decided to pursue a master's degree in the US, I was not simply looking for a good school. I had built up an idea of what studying there could mean for my career and, if I am being honest, for my life.

I applied to several universities, but Columbia University and New York were the dream I had absorbed from years of movies and television while growing up in Mexico.

The other schools felt like alternatives until the University of Pennsylvania unexpectedly offered me a $40,000 scholarship and forced me to ask how much that dream was actually worth.

Philly made me question my New York dream

Until UPenn's offer arrived, I had never really forced myself to interrogate why I wanted New York so badly. Columbia had the prestige I was looking for, but it also came wrapped in a city I had romanticized for years. I had treated those two things as one package and assumed they were worth paying for.

Penn changed the equation. Philadelphia was not the city I had fantasized about, but UPenn was every bit the kind of elite institution I had wanted. More importantly, the scholarship turned an abstract alternative into a serious option. Suddenly, I could get the academic credibility I was chasing without taking on the same financial burden.

That mattered because I did not come from money. I had saved, but I knew an American master's degree meant much more than tuition: rent, insurance, flights, food, and a year away from full-time work.

For the first time, I had to separate what I actually needed for my career from what I simply wanted because I had fallen in love with the idea of New York.

I still chose Columbia because New York felt like part of the education

In the end, I followed my instinct and chose Columbia. The decision was not financially comfortable. Once I sat down and compared the two options properly, I realized New York would require me to borrow money, while Penn's scholarship would let me begin the degree from a much stronger financial position. I knew I was choosing the more expensive path.

What tipped the balance was that I did not see New York as just the place where Columbia happened to be. I saw the city itself as part of what I was paying for. I wanted to study law there, but I also wanted to understand its legal market, meet people working in it, and experience the professional world I hoped to enter.

In many ways, that instinct proved right. I built relationships there, eventually worked in New York, and had experiences outside the classroom that became central to what came next.

But New York also taught me something I had not expected: the life I had idealized was not necessarily the life I wanted forever. I loved the city's ambition and energy, but eventually realized its relentless hustle culture was not for me.

I later moved to London, changed jobs, and built a career that looks very different from what I imagined when I was choosing between UPenn and Columbia. So, was it all worth it?

I don't regret Columbia, but I'm still paying for the choice

I know Columbia gave me a lot. Studying law in the US exposed me to a more practical and participatory style of legal education and helped prepare me for an international career. I am grateful for that experience, and I do not regret having gone.

But COVID made the financial side of my decision harder to ignore. I had chosen the more expensive option partly because I wanted everything that came with being at Columbia and in New York. Then the pandemic changed university life almost overnight. Had I chosen UPenn, I would still have lived through those same disruptions, but I would have done so with a scholarship and more money left in my pocket. Looking back, that difference feels much more significant than it did when I was making the decision.

Years later, I am still paying off two loans from my studies. Columbia helped shape the life and career I have now, and I am grateful I chose it. But every loan payment is also a reminder that UPenn offered me another route, one I will never know the outcome of.

• Steve Eisman doesn't like what he's seeing in the AI trade lately.
• "The Big Short" investor compared financial maneuvers by some tech firms to those used by Enron.
• "What I find disturbing is some of the off-balance sheet financing using special purpose vehicles," Eisman said.

Steve Eisman says AI dealmaking is showing some of the same qualities as one of the 2000's most infamous corporate blowups.

Eisman has been warning investors about the AI trade all year, specifically its reliance on just a few companies to sustain the good vibes. On an episode of The Real Eisman Playbook podcast on September 25, he took his bearish thesis further, comparing the tactics used by some of today's AI leaders to Enron, one of this century's biggest corporate accounting frauds.

"What I find disturbing is some of the off-balance sheet financing using special purpose vehicles that I thought had gone the way of the dodo bird after the Enron and post GFC debacles," Eisman said. "I was wrong. It's still happening and in size and boy do I feel foolish"

The term special purpose vehicles refers to off-balance sheet entities that have been used by AI companies to finance big infrastructure projects without saddling the parent company with more debt. Eisman noted that former Enron chief financial officer Andrew Fastow masterminded this scheme for Enron, allowing it to hide significant debt and inflate its profits before the company imploded.

Eisman drew a parallel between Enron's collapse and the Great Financial Crisis of 2008. He highlighted how ratings agencies allowed banks to keep structured investment vehicles full of risky securitized debt off balance sheets.

"It's always good to go back in history and recall relevant stories now that off balance sheet techniques are back with a vengeance in the new world of AI," Eisman added.

In his view, the business dynamic has changed for hyperscalers like Microsoft, Alphabet, Oracle and Meta, formerly capital light businesses that are now forced to raise money in the debt markets to fund their AI capex.

Eisman used Oracle as an example of the problems he sees, noting that high leverage prompted a recent downgrade by S&P Global to a BBB- rating, one level above junk status.

"That's why off balance sheet financing is so tempting and has come back in vogue," he noted. "If you can get some of that debt off the balance sheet, it's possible the ratings agencies will give you credit for it, thereby preserving your credit rating.

Meta may be an even more relevant example, Eisman said, noting that the debt for the company's Hyperion AI data center project is Louisiana being held by an off balance sheet vehicle called Beignet Investor LLC.

The entity is a joint venture between Meta, which owns 20%, and Blue Owl Capital, a private credit firm. The SPV has issued $27 billion of debt to fund the project.

Now Eisman sees more problems ahead as Meta doubles down on balance sheet maneuvers that have preceded trouble for companies in the past.

"Even though Meta is building the data center and has promised to rent the data center from Beignet for 20 years and bears the cost of any project delays and overruns, the debt will not sit on Meta's balance sheet," he stated. "That's some fancy schmancy footwork that's reminiscent of bad times past, and it doesn't pass the smell test."

• Skiers on a lift floated feet above my head.
• Tech workers used breaks to practice their golf swings.
• My first trip to the Salt Lake City area was full of unexpected sights and experiences.

As snow-topped mountains and frozen streams gave way to red canyons and flowing brooks on the train from Colorado to Utah, I knew Salt Lake City must be close.

In January 2025, I traveled from my home in New York City to the American Southwest, where I spent three days in Salt Lake City for the first time, as well as the nearby towns of Park City and Draper.

The city and its surrounding areas are renowned for their high-end ski scene, thriving tech hub, and wealthy residents.

I expected to find luxury hotels and homes, active slopes, and tech offices with startup vibes.

I found all that — but there were nine aspects of my trip I didn't see coming.

I traveled by train from Denver to Salt Lake City and was completely in awe of the views.

My trip began with a flight from my home in NYC to Denver, where I boarded a 15-hour Amtrak train to Salt Lake City.

It wasn't my first overnight Amtrak train ride. In 2021, I took a 30-hour ride from NYC to Miami, and another 30-hour ride home. The biggest difference between these rides was the views.

In 2021, I had decent views of the East Coast, from towns to shorelines. But the sights between Colorado and Utah were on another level. I rode through Rocky Mountain National Park and watched the snow-capped forest landscape give way to red rocks and canyons as the train made its way to my destination.

This was my first time on a train with an observation car.

While I rode to Miami on a one-story Amtrak Viewliner train, my Amtrak trip to Salt Lake City was on the California Zephyr, a double-decker Superliner train.

On board, I was surprised and excited to find a communal car on the top floor designated for sightseeing since the Viewliner didn't have one. The car had two rows of windows and an array of seating options, such as booths and swivel chairs.

While booking my trip, I was surprised to find that Salt Lake City didn't have many five-star hotels.

Most major cities I visit have an array of luxury accommodations, so when booking my trip to Salt Lake City, I was shocked to find only a couple of five-star hotels.

I selected the Grand America Hotel — the city's first five-star hotel, built in 2001 to serve the 2002 Olympics.

The hotel has been known for hosting A-listers since it opened. While hotel representatives declined to reveal any celebrity guest names, one told Business Insider that Grand America had hosted visiting NBA teams.

The Grand America Hotel was also listed in the top 40 hotels in the world in CN Traveler's 2024 Reader's Choice Awards.

I couldn't believe how luxurious my room was for $340 a night.

I spent one night in an executive suite with a king-size bed. The room has a base rate of $340, though Business Insider received a media rate for the one-night stay.

The hotel was as lavish as many I've booked in the $500-$1,000-a-night range. My room was 880 square feet, with a living room, a bedroom, and a Juliet balcony. The suite felt extra luxurious with a spacious marble bathroom and thick, cozy satin-lined robes hanging in the walk-in closet.

After a night in Salt Lake City, I headed to Draper, a nearby suburb I didn't realize was a thriving tech hub.

Salt Lake City is the metropolis of the Silicon Slopes, a region of Utah known for business and tech that also includes Park City and surrounding suburbs such as Draper and Provo.

I expected most of the tech scene to be in the big city. But I found that the nearby suburb of Draper had created a booming tech community. I visited a large building that served as offices and a coworking space for several companies, giving techies the chance to network daily.

I was surprised by all the fun activities inside tech offices.

I got private tours of two companies inside the building — Bamboo HR and Pluralsight (Pluralsight moved its headquarters to Texas in August 2025). The offices were modern and sleek, with intentional color palettes and cozy seats, as I'd expect from any tech office.

Work aside, these spaces had activities for breaks that would make it hard for me to get back to my tasks — pickleball, rentable bikes for trail riding accessible from the property, and, most surprisingly to me, an indoor golf simulator.

That afternoon, I headed from Draper to Park City, where I wasn't expecting to find luxury housing visible from downtown.

In most wealthy towns I visit, luxury housing is spread out on the outskirts, away from the public eye.

I found that was the case for most of Park City, too.

In the downtown area, however, I spotted many modern and high-end homes layered among older houses on hilltops overlooking the streets. I was surprised and delighted by the idea of living in a luxury mansion in a walkable neighborhood.

In the same area, I was shocked when a skier was lifted a few feet above my head.

I knew Park City was known for skiing, but I didn't expect to see an active ski lift nearly at arm's length while strolling through the downtown area.

It made sense when I learned that this part of Park City sits between two major ski hubs — Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort.

Park City had public amenities I don't often see in New York, such as bathrooms and electric firepits in courtyards.

New York City has public bathrooms, but in my experience, finding one often becomes an unwanted adventure.

So, I didn't expect to see a vibrant sign pointing to one in downtown Park City. I didn't go inside, but all the public restrooms in Park City that I saw on Google Maps had five-star ratings.

I also found warm electric firepits surrounded by benches in courtyards between stores and restaurants.

The surprising parts of my trip left me with a fuller picture of Salt Lake City and its surrounding areas. Now I want to go back.

From Salt Lake City's affordable luxury stays to the unexpected amenities in nearby Park City, these unanticipated delights made me certain I'll return to the Silicon Slopes.

• My husband and I met while working as teachers many years ago. Since then, I left the field.
• I now write full-time and love it, but he's still teaching and plans to do so for a few years.
• I can still relate to what he's going through at work, but I have more time for our joint endeavors.

My husband and I met as teachers.

When we were introduced, I instantly respected him. I was drawn to our shared desire to teach and help young people, and to our mutual love of all things related to English Language Arts.

When we worked together, we maintained our professionalism and didn't even realize we liked each other until later. When I transferred schools, we ran into each other at a track meet where we were each coaching, and the rest is history.

I loved having the same career as my spouse, because he understood everything I was going through. We could both lament together and build each other up with real teaching advice.

But due to a slow onset of health issues and my inability to keep teaching, I transitioned to full-time writing two years ago.

It hasn't always been easy no longer working in the same field

It was difficult for me to feel like I was losing my career. It didn't feel like I had a choice, as my symptoms were suddenly hindering me. However, I did have a choice about what to do next.

I had already been writing professionally while I was teaching, and truth be told, writing had always been my core dream. Only recently have I seen that being forced into freelancing full-time was a blessing in disguise and the push I needed to pursue this path.

With my husband still in the classroom, I can help him with the career-specific stress I'm so familiar with. My understanding of exactly what he's going through goes a long way in our relationship. I have a good sense of what he might need help with simply because I'm so familiar with the peak exhaustion times of the school year.

Over the years, my career change has created a difference between how we each approach work. My husband and I used to agree to leave work in the classroom because bringing it home was too emotional. So, we had clear boundaries between work and home.

However, now that I'm doing something I love even more than teaching, I don't ever take time off from it. I am always thinking creatively and working on ideas throughout the day so that I'm never exactly off the clock.

My hope for my husband now is that, in time, he can become as enthralled and obsessed with his own projects as I am with my own.

I've started encouraging him to pursue his passions on his time off

I don't regret leaving the field only because it's been so much better for my health. I'm grateful I was put in a position where I really had to work hard at writing full-time, rather than just doing it on the side.

Plus, I still get to satisfy my teaching urges through volunteer opportunities at my son's school and developing curriculum for other teachers.

The common desire my husband and I have to give back and help others is the true reason we were led to teaching, but the ways in which we want to do that now have changed.

We've begun brainstorming what we'll do when he retires from teaching in the next few years. Opening a makerspace for young artists is just one idea we have for using our teaching experience in a less stressful, more rewarding way.

By communicating more about what we want out of life next, I've realized I can be my partner's teammate and help him find work he never wants to stop doing. Because I work from home now, I can also accomplish a lot of logistical tasks for a small business we're starting, where we can sell his artwork and other products.

Seeing him light up again when he's working on what he loves has been rewarding for me, because I just want the best for him.

More importantly, we're becoming more of a team through our creative endeavors, strengthening our bond in the process, and that has been the real reward of helping him to start thinking beyond the classroom.

This is an as-told-to essay based on a conversation with Becca Millstein. She is the co-founder and CEO of Fishwife, a tinned seafood company based in Los Angeles. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I love my job so much.

Since starting Fishwife, my life has been pretty much the same. Now there are just way more people to help me.

I love being super hands-on, and that's definitely how I am as a CEO. It's about finding the balance between delegating and holding on to the things that truly bring me joy as the team grows. It's a huge transition. I'm used to doing those transitions because I started as just one person doing everything. I have faith in the system that if I give up certain things, the more important things for me at this moment will take their place.

I try to keep things as simple as possible outside of work. I definitely could wear the same outfit every day for an entire week, and I often do. T-shirt, jeans, sweater, keep it focused, not wasting brain energy on it. Habit is really the friend of frenetic founders.

Here's what a typical day in my life looks like.

My busy morning starts at 6:30 am

It's all pretty boring. Nothing too sexy. My usual routine when I'm home is to get up at 6:30 or 6:45, head into my office, and do Slack, email, and triage.

There's no time for a morning routine because it's wake up and OK, let's go. Usually, calls start at 9 AM. So I basically have 7 to 9 AM to get through the first batch of emails because I'm on the West Coast, and we have a lot of East Coast and middle-of-the-country employees. It's an inferior time zone — when I'm working in New York, or even on Central Time, it's such a gift to get more time to do deep, focused work in the mornings.

I'm diving into calls for many hours and usually freeing up around 3 PM.

I run Fishwife with 'monkey bar' meetings and AI support

We have one-on-ones on the team at Fishwife among many, many people.

I feel like those are the monkey bars people are swinging to, keeping the momentum going: They're really focused, don't waste any time, and are clearly propelling us to the next action. That allows the company to move very quickly.

We have intense documentation for everything at Fishwife. It's a real culture of note-taking. My favorite really basic tool is the agendas that we have linked in every single one of our meetings. We will not have a meeting at Fishwife without an agenda attached to it — ever.

AI note-takers make it so much easier to make sure action items are followed up on. It's taken probably five to eight hours of work out of my week on average, sometimes much more if there's a presentation or something along those lines

Usually, I'm ordering lunch between meetings and just powering through to 5 PM, which is not advisable. We should take breaks during the day.

I need my long runs to process and catch up on podcasts

I usually leave here about 5 or 6 PM and go for a long run, about eight miles. I just can't exist without it. I'd go crazy.

I go on the same run every day or every other day. It's called the Arroyo Seco path; part of it runs along the Los Angeles River, which is kind of a misnomer because there's not a lot of water in it. A good half of it goes through really beautiful woods.

With days going as quickly as they are and being as information-packed as they are, that is a really critical time for me to be outside and digest work issues. I do so much thinking about the day and how to deal with certain workplace issues, like hiring processes. There have been so many ideas that I've worked through or come up with for the company while running. I'll also do calls when I'm running so I can fit them into my schedule.

I also take that time to listen to podcasts, usually business or news podcasts like Acquired, How I Built This, and Masters of Scale. I just started listening to Diary of a CEO. Then I listen to news like Ezra Klein, The Daily, Pivot, things like that.

It's very enriching because I do not read a lot outside of work these days, sadly. And I look forward to the runs to digest and move my body. It's the cherry on the sundae at the end of every day.

I catch up on deep focus work before dinner

My husband [musician and comedian Pete Martin, who performs as Petey USA] cooks me dinner while I work. That is the quietest time for me to be able to focus, so I'm either getting through emails or deeper projects.

I'm about 60% as productive at night. I'm not necessarily doing my best thinking, especially because I've been on calls all day. But I know I need to clear everything out and check off my to-do list, because if I don't, the next morning will be like hell on earth.

I'll talk to Pete while he's cooking, too. I'm not helpful in the kitchen except for moral support.

I unwind with walks and TV, and swore off social media

After dinner, Pete and I hang out. We love to go on little walks around the beautiful neighborhood we live in.

We also love to sit on the couch. There's always a lot of stuff to talk about at the end of the day, so we chat a lot.

We've been watching a lot of horror-comedy or new-wave horror TV shows — recently Widow's Bay, which was the best show I've seen in a while, Severance, and Something Very Bad is Going to Happen.

I deleted social media — no Instagram, I never use TikTok, and I feel like that's been good. Although I still need to look at it for my role, it's really helpful not to have it on my phone.

I keep a strict bedtime so I can get seven hours of sleep

I try to have as little sleep as I need to perform at my best, and that's seven hours.

One day, eight hours would be cool. If I sleep five hours, I can't do my job, so there's no point in trying.

Historically, if I've made a decision and thought, "Why did I do that? It doesn't make any sense," it's always when I'm not well-rested, I'm traveling, or I'm working super myopically on one project, and I'm not thinking as critically.

If I'm consistently going to bed every night at 11:30 PM and waking up at 6:30, that feels good.

I repeat the same thing most days. I always work on Sundays, so I'm ready to attack the week.

There's so much going on that's unpredictable and changing that I really want to control the variables I can control. Consistency is key.

• I tried Ina Garten's bacon, egg, and cheddar breakfast sandwich.
• Garten's quick recipe includes cooking the eggs in the microwave.
• I was shocked at how fluffy the eggs tasted, and they paired great with the bacon and avocado.

As someone who spent most of her 20s in New York, few things make my heart sing in the morning like a good breakfast sandwich.

I've been missing my local bodega's delicacies, so I was excited to discover that Ina Garten has a bacon, egg, and cheddar sandwich in her cookbook "Modern Comfort Food."

"A perfect breakfast sandwich in no time at all," she writes in the recipe's description. "It's also not a bad 'breakfast for dinner' option!"

The ingredients in Garten's BEC are pantry staples, and there's very little prep. You can even cook the eggs in the microwave, which is her preference (hello, college freshmen!).

Garten's bacon, egg, and cheddar sandwich has six main ingredients.

To make this morning staple, you'll need:

• Extra-large eggs
• Thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon
• Sharp white cheddar cheese (grated)
• English muffins
• Avocado
• Whole milk

Before making the sandwiches, I grated some cheddar cheese.

Garten's recipe calls for four tablespoons of grated sharp white cheddar cheese if you're making sandwiches for two people.

Since I was making sandwiches for my family, I doubled the recipe.

I also prepped the bowls I would use to microwave the eggs.

Per Garten's instructions, I generously brushed four small microwavable bowls with olive oil and set them aside.

Once my prep was complete, I started cooking the bacon.

Each sandwich is meant to have two slices of that thick-cut applewood-smoked bacon, so I threw some in the pan.

I cooked the bacon for around seven minutes, until the slices got nice and crispy, then transferred them to a plate lined with a paper towel.

Then it was time to prep the eggs.

Garten's recipe calls for two eggs per sandwich, so I cracked eight eggs into a bowl and beat them together with eight tablespoons of whole milk, as well as salt and pepper.

I evenly distributed my egg mixture between the bowls.

This is when I realized I couldn't microwave the bowls at the same time, meaning my family would have to eat their sandwiches at different times if they wanted them nice and hot.

Maybe this wasn't the most efficient idea after all …

It was time for the microwave experiment to begin.

I placed two of my bowls into the microwave for 30 seconds, per Garten's instructions. Then I took them out and gently stirred each mixture.

As you can see in the picture, little had changed in those 30 seconds. And that would be the case for a few minutes.

I continued to microwave and stir the eggs at 30-second intervals.

Garten recommends doing this until the eggs "are puffed and almost cooked through."

While the eggs did their thing in the microwave, I started toasting my English muffins.

I cut each muffin in half and toasted them until they were "nicely browned," as Garten suggested.

Then it was back to my eggs, which were puffing up nicely.

Around the three-minute mark, I could tell that the eggs were cooking well.

When they were almost ready, I added some grated cheese.

I sprinkled one tablespoon of cheddar into each bowl and microwaved them for 30 seconds to melt the cheese and finish cooking the eggs.

After the last round in the microwave, my eggs were ready.

I had never cooked eggs in the microwave before, so I was surprised to see how similar they looked to eggs cooked on the stove. They actually looked nice and fluffy!

However, the process took about four minutes, and I still had to repeat it for the other two bowls, which was more time-consuming than I had hoped.

Then I began building my breakfast sandwiches.

I misread Garten's recipe here and smashed my avocado on the muffins rather than layering the slices on the bottom half of each. Thankfully, avocado is great no matter how you eat it!

Then I broke the bacon strips in half and placed two halves on each sandwich, per Garten's instructions.

I piled the fluffy eggs right on top.

I slid the eggs on top of the bacon before sprinkling them with leftover cheddar, along with some salt and pepper.

I was surprised by how deliciously creamy the eggs were.

The fluffy eggs paired well with the crispy, thick-cut bacon, which served as the perfect base with the avocado. But I thought the sandwich needed just a bit more oomph. I'd add more cheddar cheese and a dash of hot sauce to give it some depth and heat.

Overall, though, my family loved this dish more than Garten's smashed eggs on toast, which they had tried just the day before.

"I could have a second," my sister said as she happily bit into her sandwich.

If you're only microwaving eggs for one or two people, this sandwich takes less than 15 minutes to make and is a delicious way to start the day.

Plus, it's a great recipe when you're trying to avoid the stove — or need to cook in your dorm.

• Before having kids, I made plenty of rules about the parent I would be.
• I held firm on banning character clothing until my son found shoes he adored.
• Letting him wear them taught me that not every parenting battle is worth fighting.

At the very top of the bin that holds my three boys' shoes sits a bright red reminder of a parenting promise I broke — roughly six years into motherhood.

Every time I'm in the mudroom, I see them.

Scuffed. Faded. Velcro barely hanging on. The lights in the soles, once flashing with obnoxious enthusiasm, now blink only occasionally, like they're too tired to keep up (much like myself).

They should have been tossed months ago. Instead, I can't quite bring myself to do it. Because those shoes represent the last parenting rule I held onto from the days before I actually had children.

I had all these parenting rules before having kids

You know the rules I'm talking about — the ones every future parent confidently declares while observing other people's kids from a safe, well-rested distance.

"Our kids won't eat a steady diet of chicken nuggets and quesadillas."

"We won't be those parents who hand over an iPad just to get through dinner."

"They won't be allowed to sleep in our bed."

It's amazing how much certainty exists before your first child arrives.

Then reality shows up wearing mismatched socks because it's "Wacky Wednesday" — even though it's Monday — demanding waffles cut into exactly 16 pieces and refusing to get into the van because a brother looked at them the wrong way.

One by one, my carefully constructed parenting philosophies disappeared. Chicken nuggets became an acceptable source of protein. The occasional tablet became a perfectly reasonable travel companion. At least one child ends up in our bed nearly every week.

Turns out survival and perfection are not the same thing.

But somehow, through all of it, there was one rule I managed to keep.

I didn't want my kids wearing clothes with cartoon characters

It was admittedly shallow. Slightly ridiculous. But it mattered to me: My children would not wear clothing covered in cartoon characters or giant screen-printed slogans.

No "Mommy's Little Champ." No "Future Heartbreaker." No superhero or Paw Patrol T-shirts.

Their clothes didn't need to look expensive. They didn't even need to match (though I preferred it). I just wanted them to look like little boys — not walking billboards for whatever character happened to be popular that year.

For nearly six years, I held the line. Then came Mother's Day.

We'd gone out for lunch and stopped at Marshalls because my oldest had officially destroyed yet another pair of sneakers.

If you've ever shopped with three boys under 6, you know the goal isn't browsing. It's getting in, accomplishing exactly one task, and escaping before someone needs the bathroom or a snack, or decides to hide among the clothing racks.

We almost made it.

I broke my own rule

My husband was helping our oldest try on shoes while I kept an eye on our younger two. Then my 2-year-old wandered.

Not far. Just far enough.

On the bottom shelf of the children's shoe section — a place only a toddler would think to investigate — sat a pair of shoes that represented everything I'd spent six years avoiding.

Bright. Gaudy. Glowing. Lightning McQueen sneakers. Ka-chow!

They were, in my opinion, absolutely atrocious. They were everything I had sworn my kids would never wear.

But I don't know if I've ever seen my 2-year-old so happy. He lit up — just like the soles of those shoes. He grabbed them, held them up like he'd just won the Piston Cup (if you know, you know), and looked at me with pure, unfiltered joy. They were the greatest discovery of his short little life.

I looked at my husband. He looked back with the expression that said, This one's on you.

I gave the standard mom response. "We're here to get shoes for your brother."

He nodded. Then held them up again. His eyes were enormous.

"Please?"

I tried to hold the line. I really did.

But there are moments in parenting when you realize this isn't actually about what you're fighting.

My son really loved his light-up shoes

Standing there in the middle of a Marshalls just outside Washington, D.C., I realized the only person who cared about my six-year rule… was me.

So I surrendered.

Not gracefully. Not enthusiastically. But I bought what I was convinced were the loudest shoes Marshalls had to offer.

And here's the thing — it didn't start a slippery slope. My boys' closets are still, with the exception of those shoes, blissfully free of cartoon characters and cheesy slogans.

But those shoes? He has worn them into the ground. The soles are scuffed from countless scooter races with his brothers. The lights barely flicker anymore. The Velcro has given up entirely. And somehow, they still manage to clash with every single outfit I put him in.

It turns out the things we swear will define our parenting, but rarely do. What sticks are the moments we didn't plan for — the ones where we loosen our grip a little and realize our kids are becoming their own people anyway.

I still cringe every time I kneel down to help him put them on. But I also know that when he outgrows them — and it's coming soon — we'll both feel it.

Because somewhere along the way, those clunky, ridiculous, glowing shoes stopped being everything I didn't want and became something I'll never quite be ready to throw away.

Sudan has historically been the top producer of gum arabic, a pink resin that ends up in lots of products like Coca-Cola, M&M's, makeup, and pills.

But Sudan has been in the grips of civil war since 2023, which has displaced an estimated 14 million people. The war has devastated the lives of gum arabic farmers. Gum trees have been cleared, and exports to the US have dropped.

With Western companies now looking to Sudan's neighbors to source it, experts say smuggled gum arabic is funding the civil war and likely the purchase of weapons by paramilitary groups.

• Ukrainian forces used an amphibious ground robot to execute a first-of-its-kind logistics mission.
• The robot traveled dozens of miles across land and water to run ammo and food to troops.
• Ground robots have become increasingly vital for Kyiv, particularly in logistics.

Ukrainian forces used an amphibious ground robot to run supplies dozens of miles across land and water in a first-of-its-kind logistics mission.

The amphibious robot, operated by soldiers in the 93rd Mechanized Brigade, traveled 25 miles across varied terrain to deliver ammunition and provisions to front-line positions.

"Water obstacles along the front line present a critical challenge for military logistics," the Ukrainian state-backed innovation platform Brave1 said in a statement shared with Business Insider.

"Rivers, canals, and marshlands can severely impede or completely sever supply routes for conventional UGVs, while aerial resupply is not always viable," it added, referring to uncrewed ground vehicles.

The robot used in the supply mission, a domestically produced model called Triton, operated on land as a conventional UGV, with high mobility. When it reached the water, the robot switched to swimming mode within seconds.

"A single asset thereby gains broader operational versatility across complex terrain," Brave1 said.

Brave1 said the robot underwent months of development ahead of its mission and that it was done in close coordination with the soldiers, factoring in their requirements and the front-line terrain. It's unclear exactly when and where the operation took place.

Ground robots have become a vital component of Ukrainian logistics this year as officials look to replace soldiers with machines wherever possible in dangerous front-line missions.

Ukrainian defense companies have long been pursuing amphibious battlefield robots; Ratel Robotics, for instance, told Business Insider in May that it was designing UGVs for amphibious casualty evacuation, logistics, and assault missions.

In June, Brave1 launched a new track for amphibious robots within its grant program, with support from Ukraine's defense ministry.

The amphibious logistics run comes as robots are increasingly being used in unconventional missions on the battlefield.

Earlier this month, Ukraine's Third Army Corps revealed that it used heavy bomber drones to air-drop robots several miles behind Russian positions in a surprise assault.

That assault occurred during Operation Vivaldi, a major Ukrainian offensive underway in the east that has seen Kyiv retake dozens of square miles from Russian control.

• Restaurant owner Bashir Chedrawee wanted a bigger company trip — so he took his team to Greece.
• He spent months planning and negotiating prices to make the weeklong trip possible.
• Two employees proposed to their partners in Greece, and some coworkers even got tattoos.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Bashir Chedrawee, owner and CEO of Simone's Kitchen, a Mediterranean eatery with three locations in New York state. It has been edited for length and clarity.

I started Simone's Kitchen with my mother in 2018. As a Mediterranean-inspired eatery, we draw inspiration from countries across the Mediterranean basin, from Greece to Lebanon to Morocco, even Italy.

We had done company outings before in the US, such as going to a lakefront beach or renting out an entertainment center. However, going to a part of the world that we engage with on a daily basis, but most of us had never actually been to, was an experience that made sense.

So, in February this year, I told everyone at a business meeting that we were going to take the entire team to Greece for a week. In total, there were 73 of us, including plus ones. Flights, transportation, accommodation, some group activities, and certain meals were paid for by the company, costing over $2,000 per person.

They couldn't believe it at first

The month before the announcement, I started thinking about where to go for our team's fun trip.

There were a few reasons I chose Greece. Firstly, I think Greece has a culture that embodies Simone's Kitchen's philosophy of hospitality. It also felt attainable.

I had also been there before, so I felt comfortable that I could plan this trip myself as opposed to outsourcing it to a travel agency. I knew what to expect when we got there, and that Greece is not an expensive country to visit with the right planning.

The team was shocked when I told them the plans. I had to repeat it a few times for people to believe it.

We made the business more nimble

While I knew this trip was something we could pull off, I also knew we would have to run a much more nimble business. Closing for the week meant losing an estimated six figures in lost revenue.

We already had relationships with multiple vendors, so in the six months before the trip, we became more cognizant about comparing prices and buying from whichever vendor offered a lower price. For example, we spend about $300,000 a year on chicken thighs alone. When prices can differ by around 15% between suppliers, you can save tens of thousands of dollars over a year.

We slowed the pace of spending on a new store under construction. For example, we delayed purchases of certain items we didn't need to order early. We also made sure we weren't overstaffing our stores.

What helped was that we experienced a lot of growth in those six months. We had posted the trip announcement on our public Instagram, and I think that had an impact on public perception of our company.

I spent late nights and early mornings negotiating

To figure out where in Greece to go, I reached out to travel influencers who share travel tips for Greece. I set up meetings with one who gave options on where to stay. We decided to go to Athens, then Naxos, because of its accessibility from Athens and affordability.

Airbnb ended up being too expensive. Instead, I called hotels to negotiate pricing. In Naxos, we ended up splitting our stay between two hotels that were within walking distance of each other and the beach.

We needed flights from JFK to Athens, coach buses at every leg of the trip, and ferries to get to and from Naxos.

I reached out to any airline that offered direct flights from JFK and neighboring airports to Athens. With these different quotes, I managed to negotiate better prices for a JFK-to-Athens round trip, averaging about $1,000 per person.

I would work on it late at night and wake up early in the morning to make calls to the hotels, bus transportation, and ferry companies.

Two employees ended up proposing to their partners

Everybody received an itinerary showing where you needed to be at what time for each leg of transportation, as well as which team activities we had planned and paid for.

There were lots of special moments. We went island hopping one day, complete with a barbecue on the boat. Two couples got engaged, and some people even got tattoos together.

One profound moment we had was the last dinner in Naxos. We surprised everybody and told them to be ready for dinner in their best attire. We took two coach buses from the sea to the mountains of Naxos, and we ate dinner in a village made entirely of marble.

The hospitality industry is often viewed as a place where you go for minimum-wage work or to try to make a living off tips. We don't always realize that companies can give employees experiences they may never have on their own, or even realize they wanted.

• The bond sell-off is causing anxiety in markets, but it's not necessarily reason to panic.
• The US economy is strong enough to withstand higher rates, analysts say.
• It explains why the stock market remains near records despite yields spiking to multi-decade peaks.

Try not to lose any more sleep over the latest bond market freakout.

While, there's growing anxiety in markets that rising yields are about to cause something to break, some forecasters are urging calm, telling investors that the economy can handle it.

The sell-off in US Treasurys has sent key US bond yields to 20-year peaks. The yield on the 10-year Treasury recently surged to its highest level since the Great Financial Crisis, while the yield on the 30-year bond rose past 5.5% the highest since 2004.

Historically, higher yields have signaled tighter financial conditions and increased pressure on stock prices, with 5% being the critical threshold that suggests risk assets like stocks are in the "danger zone."

But the sell-off may not be the sign of a coming calamity that some investors are fearing, as the recent spike in yields is largely reflective of one thing: That the US economy is strong enough to withstand higher rates.

The bond market's logic goes something like this:

• If the US economy were weak, investors would expect the Fed to lower interest rates to support growth, which would lead yields to fall.
• But recent economic data has been strong, a factor that has helped send yields higher. The surge in yields last week was partly influenced by robust growth, with economic activity expanding at its fastest pace in over five years, according to the latest S&P Global Flash PMI.
  
  Manufacturing activity was also strong, with the index's gauge for the sector coming in at a 52-month high.
  
  Strong manufacturing and services growth is likely what sent "yields to the nosebleeds," Jose Torres, a senior economist at Interactive Brokers, wrote in a recent client note.

• The Fed is expected to hike rates several more times to tame inflation. Markets are pricing in a 95% chance that rates will end the year higher than where they are now, according to the CME FedWatch tool.
• But long-term inflation expectations remained anchored at around 2% to 3%. That suggests bond yields are rising largely due to the surge in real yields, rather than investors panicking about runaway inflation.

"What's really driven us here is 1), Federal Reserve rate expectations, and 2), higher nominal growth. We have very solid nominal US growth," Rob Haworth, a senior investment strategist at US Bank Asset Management Group, told Business Insider.

"What's happened is the Fed has said, 'My goodness, growth is so robust,'" he added, pointing to comments from the central bank that it had room to raise rates further to get a handle on inflation.

Haworth said he's not concerned about yields well above 5%, as it is a less meaningful psychological threshold for investors than it was in the past due to the rise in real yields, he said.

Investors have been selling bonds because they're reassessing growth and Fed rate expectations, rather than due to concerns about inflation or the US's fiscal sustainability, Seema Shah, the chief global strategist at Principal Asset Management, wrote in a note.

"With growth remaining robust, it is hardly surprising that Treasury yields have moved higher. While rising yields may create headwinds, they are also a reflection of stronger growth," Shah said on Monday.

Another reason not to panic: the stock market has been mostly unfazed. Major stock averages remain close record highs, fueled by expectations for continued earnings growth and economic strength.

"We have written before that there is one superglue holding the market together this year: growth. There is simply no other way of explaining the huge rise in yields (almost exclusively driven by neutral rates), equities close to record highs," George Saravelos, global head of FX research at Deutsche Bank, wrote last week.

Some investors have been concerned that higher yields could compete for capital, drawing investors away from stocks. But short-term yields aren't competitive with stocks yet, DataTrek Research said on Tuesday.

Given the risk associated with owning stocks, short-term Treasurys will likely remain uncompetitive until yields surpass the 5.5%-6.5% range, Nicholas Colas, the co-founder of DataTrek, estimated.

Forecasters think that yields could rise further as markets continue to reprice expectations for Fed rate increases. Should the US economy and investment demand remain resilient, there's "scope for yields to move higher," Shah said.

US Bank's Haworth said he would watch whether 10-year inflation expectations moved toward 3% to discern whether markets were in distress. Otherwise, he said he wouldn't necessarily be worried about the 10-year yield reaching 5.5% or even 6%.

• The Education Department extended the deadline for student-loan borrowers to receive an interest rate reduction.
• Borrowers now have until December 31 to enroll in autopay and receive the repayment benefit.
• The deadline was originally set to September 30,

Student-loan borrowers have more time to receive a lower interest rate on their payments.

The Department of Education announced on Tuesday that it is extending the deadline for borrowers to enroll in autopay, and thus receive a 1-percentage-point interest rate reduction, to December 31, 2026.

The enrollment deadline was previously set for September 30.

The interest rate reduction is temporary and will last through June 30, 2028. The department said in a press release that since it first announced the benefit in June, nearly 2 million borrowers have enrolled.

"We are excited to see millions of borrowers take advantage of this temporary benefit, which is already driving up repayment rates and improving the overall health of the federal student loan portfolio," Undersecretary of Education Nicholas Kent said in a statement.

Borrowers currently enrolled in autopay already receive a quarter-percentage-point reduction in their interest rate. Servicers will automatically reduce those borrowers' interest rates by an additional three-quarters of a percentage point.

Borrowers who have defaulted are not eligible for the benefit until they return to good standing. The reduction applies to direct federal loans that originated after July 1, 2012. Interest rates on federal student loans disbursed after July 1 range from 6.5% to more than 9%, and borrowers have previously told Business Insider that the high rates have led to their balance growing beyond what they originally borrowed.

The department said in its press release that the benefit is designed to help borrowers make payments under its new Repayment Assistance Plan, which requires on-time payments. RAP was included in Trump's repayment overhaul, which took effect on July 1, and is intended to be the more affordable income-driven repayment option for borrowers.

Still, borrowers have reported higher monthly bills under RAP following the elimination of the Biden-era SAVE plan, which offered lower monthly payments and a shorter timeline to debt relief.

Have a story to share about student loans? Contact this reporter at asheffey@businessinsider.com.

• Walmart has issued instructions to stores banning the use of AI tools to create display signage.
• Generative AI illustrations have been popping up as a quick fix for retailers and restaurants.
• Walmart's guidance says custom printing is only allowed when no approved alternative is available.

Walmart is saying "No" to AI slop in its stores.

Custom print jobs have long been prohibited for Walmart store signage, but a recent update to that policy says AI-generated posters are especially forbidden.

"Stores should not display signing created by AI tools," the guidance says.

The announcement appears to address the trend of retail and restaurant managers using AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Gemini to spruce up their announcements and promotions without the expense (or good judgment) of a professional graphic designer.

Delis and bodegas in particular have embraced the slop for menus and signs, as highlighted on social media, and customers hate it.

But these ad hoc print jobs can undercut the branding and standards that corporate parent companies work to maintain.

Walmart's move follows similar bans by tech companies, including YouTube, LinkedIn, TikTok, and Meta that have updated their guidelines on AI-generated content.

In its photo department guidance, Walmart says all store signage should be ordered through the official corporate catalog. Stores may ask the photo lab for help when there is a "critical business need" and there is no approved alternative.

Walmart also recently added a photo-related perk for its Walmart Plus members: As of August 14, members can get 25 free 4x6 prints made each month by uploading from their camera roll to the Walmart app.

Customers are presumably free to use that perk to print all the cringeworthy generative AI images they like for their personal use.

Have a tip? Contact this reporter via email at dreuter@businessinsider.com or text/call/Signal at 646-768-4750. Use a personal email address, a nonwork WiFi network, and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

• After a year of long distance, I moved to the same city as my boyfriend but chose to live separately.
• I love spending time with him, but I wanted to make new friends in Chicago without relying on him.
• We don't share an apartment, but spend nearly every day together while building separate lives.

A year after meeting my boyfriend in college at San Diego State University, we entered the scary territory of a long-distance relationship when he moved to Illinois for his Ph.D. program, and I stayed in California.

Whenever I visited him, I would stay for weeks at a time, and we very quickly got good at pretending we lived together: walking around Aldi, making popcorn for movie nights, and working on our laptops at a local coffee shop. The only difference was that eventually, I'd have to pack my suitcase and get on a plane.

So when I got into Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism and realized I was moving to the same city as my boyfriend, I contemplated whether we should live together, for real this time. And honestly, everyone else assumed we would.

But instead of living together, I signed a one-year lease with two girls I'd never met.

I didn't want to feel too reliant on my boyfriend when moving to a new city

A few months before I moved to Chicago, I talked to my boyfriend about my decision to live separately.

Neither of us was thrilled about spending more time apart, but I explained that wanting my own apartment had nothing to do with us.

I just needed this move to feel like my moment, not necessarily both of ours. Plus, I didn't want my first year in Chicago to automatically become our first year living together.

He understood. My mom, meanwhile, seemed convinced I was overcomplicating things. She wasn't against my plan, but she just couldn't understand why I'd go through the trouble when I already had a perfectly good boyfriend with an apartment.

And it wasn't just her. When I told friends I was moving to Chicago, I inevitably had to clarify that, no, I wasn't moving in with my boyfriend.

However, I explained that I only knew Chicago through him, tagging along to his favorite places, and letting him lead the way. I wanted the chance to discover my own favorite coffee shop or go-to Pad Thai order.

More importantly, building friendships, especially female friendships, has always been really important to me. And if I lived with my boyfriend, I knew I could very easily spend most of my free time with him.

Even though that sounded amazing after doing long-distance, I worried it might prevent me from putting myself out there.

Living separately still allows us plenty of time together

Through one of my boyfriend's friends, I was connected with two girls who were also moving to Chicago at the same time I was. They needed to fill a room, and the apartment was mere blocks away from his.

In the three months since moving, it's been really fun building my own life here. I picked out a kitchen table on Facebook Marketplace. I decorated my shoebox-sized bedroom with polka-dot curtains and magazine racks. I became close with my roommates, who went from two strangers to some of my best friends.

Now, my boyfriend comes over and squeezes onto our couch with all of us. When the night ends, we'll grab McDonald's ice-cream cones and the two of us will walk back to his place together.

We still see each other basically every day. Sometimes it's tavern-style pizza on a Wednesday. Sometimes it's a stroll along the Riverwalk after class. The difference is that it's a choice we make, rather than a default we fall into because we share a lease.

There's a practical piece of this, too. We're both building our own lives, and neither of us knows exactly what comes next.

After grad school, I could end up in New York, which would mean another round of long-distance. Or, I could stay in Chicago, in which case we'll revisit living together.

Overall, I moved to Chicago for journalism, a new city, and the chance to figure out what comes next for me. My boyfriend just happened to be here already. I moved for myself, but love made the move feel like home.

• As a frequent solo traveler, I've been lucky enough to visit all 50 US states.
• Though I've loved aspects of every state, there are some places I'm not in a rush to return to.
• Indiana, North Dakota, and Kansas are some of the states I don't plan to return to anytime soon.

As a frequent solo traveler, I've been lucky enough to visit all 50 US states. The journey has been filled with beauty, excitement, unique destinations, and a sense of accomplishment I never could have imagined.

Though I've found beauty in all 50 states and would honestly return to them all, there are some that I'm in less of a rush to visit again.

Whether the landscapes just weren't for me or the distance to travel was too great, here are the five states I'm not in a hurry to return to.

North Dakota is beautiful but more difficult to navigate.

In my opinion, North Dakota is one of the country's most otherworldly and beautiful states. Although I consider it worth a visit for anyone who appreciates plains, prairies, badlands, and wildlife, it is — to me — the sort of place that's a once-in-a-lifetime visit.

The state's remoteness and lack of larger cities (only Fargo has more than 100,000 residents) make it a place that isn't necessarily as easy to visit on a quick weekend trip.

Since things are more spread out, this trip requires more planning than others. So, although I'd love to go back eventually, I probably won't find myself there again soon.

I enjoyed traveling to Indiana, but would prefer to visit other states in the Midwest.

Even though I haven't visited every corner of Indiana — and enjoyed my previous visits — I don't see myself returning anytime soon.

I prefer visiting many of the states around Indiana and am constantly working to get back to them. For example, Michigan and Wisconsin are two of my favorite places to visit

Though Indiana has a major national park, Indiana Dunes, I'd rather visit the sand dunes in Michigan or simply head to Chicago, which is less than an hour from the park.

I'd rather visit South Dakota or Wyoming than Nebraska.

Because of its proximity to my home in Colorado, I find myself traveling through Nebraska quite often. I've visited the state dozens of times and have traveled to many outdoor recreation opportunities, parks, and unique destinations throughout the state.

Though I've had a blast exploring Omaha's vibrant art scene, and Scotts Bluff National Monument is simply stunning, the landscape isn't one I would choose over the surrounding areas in South Dakota or Wyoming.

I found Kansas to be a bit monotonous.

Kansas has more to offer than the traditional plains many people think of, but I still find the landscape to be somewhat monotonous.

I did love exploring hidden gems like Monument Rocks' giant chalk formations, which rise dramatically from the plains.

But although the state's mostly rural and agricultural nature is charming, I'd rather be in nearby Colorado or Missouri for more diverse landscapes.

I don't love the remoteness of some of Nevada's highways.

This one is tough because I think Nevada's state parks are some of the most amazing in the country. I even have fun on an occasional trip to Las Vegas. The only problem I have with Nevada is the remoteness of some of the highways.

The state is home to what Life magazine dubbed the "Loneliest Road in America" in 1986. The stretch of US Route 50 that crosses the state is remote, isolated, and vast.

I've enjoyed driving the road and other areas of the state more than once. But lately, I've felt more comfortable knowing that others are nearby when I'm traveling solo.

Correction: June 18, 2024 — An earlier version of this story mistakenly included Illinois rather than Kansas in the summary bullets as one of the states the author wouldn't return to.

Correction: June 20, 2024 — An earlier version of this story misstated that the author has family in Nebraska.

This story was originally published on June 20, 2024, and most recently updated on September 29, 2026.

• Michael Burry says he's "more confident than ever" that the AI boom will hit the skids next year.
• The "Big Short" investor said he's placed levered bets against AI stocks using bearish put options.
• Burry said the AI boom is riding a debt-fueled spending wave that is showing signs of strain.

Michael Burry says the AI bubble might pop sooner than he thought.

The investor of "The Big Short" fame said in a Substack post on Monday that he's "moving timelines up," chiefly because he expects "the bubble in AI may burst sooner than later."

Burry said he's "more confident than ever before" that his pessimistic thesis will "play out over the next year." He previously said his "base case" was 2028.

The shorter timeframe led Burry to want "more leverage in my short positions," so he covered his outright shorts and replaced them with bearish put options, he said.

Those contracts give him the right, but not the obligation, to sell a stock at a fixed strike price before a set expiry date. If the stock falls below that price prior to that date, he can exercise his puts and sell the stock at a premium to the market price, or simply sell the puts for a profit.

Burry said he switched out his outright shorts for puts on Nvidia, Palantir, Micron, Nebius, Oracle, Caterpillar, the iShares Semiconductor ETF, and the Nasdaq 100, all expiring between June and December next year.

He's also closed his CoreWeave short with plans to buy puts once they're attractively priced, and has also bought fresh puts on MetLife, he said.

Burry shared the key details for each position. For example, he said that he bought Nvidia puts that expire next September and are struck in the mid-$100s, or less than half the AI chipmaker's $229 stock price at Monday's close.

Moreover, he said that his Nasdaq 100 are struck in the $24,000s and expire next September, signaling he expects the tech-heavy index to slump by close to 20% within the next year, from around $30,300 today.

Burry said AI companies are borrowing and spending an unsustainable amount to build data centers to power the technology, setting themselves up for disaster.

"If the spending stops or slows, it all comes apart," he wrote, adding that the cash being used is "increasingly debt, with strings attached."

Burry noted that rising interest rates could turn the screw on AI companies as well, given that private equity, private credit, and their insurers are financing so much of the infrastructure buildout.

"Higher rates stress every part of that chain," he said.

Burry sees trouble brewing

"There are signs of strain at each of the big hyperscalers," Burry said in another recent post, adding that AI giants' public comments and filings "provide clues as to how stressed each one really is."

"I think there are many ways these companies are starting to fray," he wrote.

Burry, who pivoted from running a hedge fund to writing about his personal investments on Substack last fall, shot to fame after his massive, contrarian wager against the mid-2000s US housing bubble was chronicled in the book and movie "The Big Short."

He has repeatedly warned that the immense buzz around AI, which has propelled the stock market to all-time highs this year, won't last.

Burry has said that AI giants are masking slowing growth, overinvesting in chips and data centers, using accounting tricks to inflate their short-term earnings, harming shareholders by issuing too much stock to compensate their employees, and signing circular-financing deals to fuel hype and keep the party going.

But stocks have continued to shrug off not only concerns about excessive optimism around AI, but also other headwinds such as foreign conflicts, rising interest rates, soaring bond yields, and a resurgent inflation threat.

• As someone who was born and raised in California, I know the best places to visit in the fall.
• In Northern California, I love visiting spots like Sonoma and Healdsburg.
• When I'm in Southern California, I can't resist destinations like Julian and Murrieta.

When most people think of California, they likely picture a summer day on the beach. But locals know that fall offers underrated charm beyond the coastline.

I grew up in Los Angeles, spent several years in San Diego, and now, I'm doing a stint in the Bay Area. As a true Californian, I've spent three decades exploring the diverse cities, natural wonders, and landmarks that make it so great.

From quaint mountain towns to natural hot springs and wine-country escapes, here are five of my favorite places to visit in the fall.

Julian feels like a town that's straight out of a Hallmark movie.

Located in the Cuyamaca Mountains, Julian is a tiny town looks and feels like it's straight out of a Hallmark film. The downtown area is filled with charming local shops restaurants.

For a true fall activity, I recommend grabbing an apple pie at Julian Pie Company, which has been family-run since 1986.

If you're hungry, try Miner's Diner for a classic American breakfast and Julian Beer Co. for a beverage and barbecue.

There's also plenty of nature to explore nearby. For example, the Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve spans 2,900 acres of various hiking trails and panoramic views.

Sonoma is a smaller, less-crowded version of Napa Valley.

Although Napa typically gets more attention, I prefer Sonoma's laid-back atmosphere and small-town feel.

Located in the heart of California's wine country, Sonoma has become my favorite go-to weekend escape since moving to the Bay Area.

The historic Sonoma Plaza is surrounded by tasting rooms, restaurants, boutiques, and cafés, making it easy to wander without much of an itinerary.

I recommend dining at the El Dorado Kitchen for a luxurious, seasonally-inspired menu. Then, walk over to the Capo Isetta tasting room for a glass of wine from a local, family-owned vineyard.

Although there are hundreds of wineries throughout the Sonoma County region, I especially love the unique food-and-wine-pairing experiences offered at St. Francis Winery and Vineyards.

Healdsburg is a luxurious town about 70 miles north of San Francisco.

Also located in Sonoma County, Healdsburg embodies the term "quiet luxury."

Its charming downtown includes a historic plaza lined with upscale boutiques, tasting rooms, art galleries, and restaurants, while the surrounding countryside is dotted with vineyards.

Fall is an ideal time to visit, as the vineyards turn golden and the weather is still warm enough to enjoy a leisurely afternoon in town.

One of my favorite locations in Healdsburg is The Madrona, an expansive estate from 1881 that's been refurbished into a luxury hotel. The on-site restaurant has been awarded two Michelin Keys, so it's worth making a reservation and strolling the property even if you don't stay overnight.

On a chilly fall day, I love spending time in Murrieta's hot springs.

During the summer months, it can sometimes get too hot to comfortably spend time outside in parts of Southern California. That's why I love visiting Murrieta for an autumn outing.

Located between San Diego and Los Angeles, the area is home to natural hot springs, making it the perfect place to relax when temperatures start to drop. For example, Murrieta Hot Springs Resort has more than 40 natural geothermal mineral pools and baths.

Although it's a hotel, guests can also opt for a day pass to use the various amenities. I love spending a few hours moving between the different pools, lounging outside, and indulging in spa treatments.

Aside from spending time at the resort, the city of Murrieta also offers access to outdoor activities like hiking, horseback riding, golf, and more.

June Lake is a hidden gem in the Sierra Nevadas.

I accidentally came across June Lake on road trip, but it instantly became a place I want to revisit.

The tiny town sits beside a lake surrounded by mountain scenery, creating a peaceful and slow-paced atmosphere. Visitors can kayak, fish, or camp around the lake to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty.

When you're not out exploring, June Lake Brewing is a popular spot to hang out, sip on local beers, and grab a bite from the on-site food trucks.

• Oura, the smart ring maker, is postponing its highly anticipated IPO.
• The company said the pause was being driven by uncertainty in financial markets.
• In its IPO paperwork, Oura flagged risks around AI as a threat to its business.

Oura, the smart ring maker, has postponed its IPO, citing "market uncertainty."

The company said it had seen "strong demand" for its stock market launch and expects revenue to increase by 90% year-on-year in the 2026 financial year.

Oura was set to launch on the tech-heavy Nasdaq, which has grown 15% so far in 2026, but has seen its gains stunted in recent weeks amid rising fears about the potential dangers of AI, and widening calls for a slowdown in the tech.

Oura confirmed its plans for an IPO earlier in September after months of speculation, revealing in regulatory filings that it made $1.4 billion in revenue and $59 million in net income in the one-year period that ended in June.

In its S-1 filing, the company noted that it is exposed to risks around AI as it relies on outside models from firms like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google, and on third-party data centers, adding that disruptions to the data centers could impact the company.

"We aim to deliver an extraordinary IPO for our employees and investors and we have the luxury of choosing our moment. In the meantime, we will execute against the opportunities ahead," Oura's CEO Tom Hale said in a statement announcing the delay.

This is a developing story.

• I worked on cruise ships for six years and used to wish passengers knew more about the crew. 
• The comment cards in cruisers' rooms can help employees get raises and promotions. 
• Even if a guest enjoys spending time with crew members, they should respect the workers' free time.

Throughout my six years working on cruise ships — first in guest services, then in onboard entertainment — I came across many different types of guests. 

Some made my job easier by calmly communicating their needs and respecting the crew's boundaries, but others did not. I've seen passengers ask for exceptions to ship-wide rules and raise their voices at minor inconveniences. Through it all, the crew must remain polite and professional.

Here are the things I wish more cruisers knew about crew members before boarding ships. 

Responding to inconveniences with kindness instead of aggression will probably get you further

Things don't always go smoothly on cruises. Luggage gets left behind, itineraries change on the fly, and plumbing issues can sometimes soak the carpets.

During my time working in guest services, I encountered many cruisers who were kind and patient no matter how inconvenienced they were. I was always inspired to go above and beyond to address and make up for the issues affecting them.

On the other hand, some people reacted to mishaps with anger, raising their voices and demanding compensation for every detail that went wrong. Being rude, aggressive, and belligerent didn't get them very far on the ships where I worked.

I always empathized when things went wrong and if guests had bad experiences. The kinder you are to the staff, the more likely they are to go above and beyond to help you.

Some crew members may not get a share of the tips, even if they work closely with guests

Many major cruise lines charge gratuity to guests' onboard accounts. Passengers often assume each crew member gets a cut, but on the ships where I worked, the housekeeping stewards and dining-room staff split it.

Some crew members had roles that weren't tip-eligible and didn't receive a portion of the pool, regardless of how hard they worked. 

Of course, the tipping structure varies between cruise lines. However, if a crew member has gone above and beyond, feel free to give them an extra cash tip. They'll almost always appreciate it.

Comment cards can help some employees get promotions and raises

At the end of a cruise, guests usually find comment cards in their rooms or at guest services. These cards give passengers the opportunity to praise crew members who did an exceptional job. 

My supervisors didn't always get a chance to see how hard I worked, so acknowledgment from passengers helped prove I was doing a good job. These comment cards were particularly useful when I was working toward a promotion or a raise. 

Some crew members might not feel comfortable talking about politics or personal matters

My coworkers came from around the world, representing dozens of different countries, and that's often the case on cruise ships. 

Many people love to talk about their home, culture, and background, but I recommend that guests avoid political topics when speaking with crew members. They shouldn't assume that the staff shares their beliefs, and should be aware that some employees might not feel comfortable discussing these topics in a work environment.

Also, keep in mind that passengers never know what cruise workers are dealing with behind the scenes. They're often away from home for months at a time, which can take an emotional toll on them. In my case, my dad was sick with stage IV cancer while I was working on the ships, and I also lost a beloved family pet. 

The staff almost always tries to keep conversation topics professional, and passengers should respect that. 

Guests and staff members aren't usually allowed in each other's rooms

Although my coworkers and I were encouraged to socialize and interact with guests, we always had to maintain a professional distance. 

We weren't allowed inside guest cabins, and they weren't permitted to enter staff quarters. Any physical interaction was strictly prohibited and could result in the cruise worker's termination.

Onboard rules are in place for a reason, and they usually can't be changed for one person

Some people try to work their way up the chain of command — requesting to speak to a crew member's supervisor, then maybe that supervisor's supervisor — to overrule instructions they don't like.

For example, I've seen parents get upset about strict age-group policies at kids' clubs. Some tried to get around this rule so their children were in the same group, but none succeeded. These rules are in place for a reason.

If cruise ships have a policy in place, there's most likely an explanation behind it. Before you waste your energy trying to get around rules, try to understand why they exist in the first place.

Crew members tend to work more hours than most people think

Pretty much any cruiser will tell you crew members work hard, and that's just based on what they see. There's a lot more going on behind the scenes, away from the ships' public spaces.

I worked about 10 hours a day, seven days a week, for six to nine months at a time. In addition to working with guests, I also had a range of safety duties that involved ongoing training and a weekly crew drill.

Guests often assumed that the rest of the crew and I had a day off between the end of one cruise and the beginning of another to restock the ship and recoup. In reality, we usually set sail just a few hours after the last disembarkation.

Employees have very little free time, so cruisers shouldn't infringe upon it

As I mentioned, cruise-ship employees often work long hours, which means they have limited free time.

Part of my job as an entertainment host was to socialize with guests. I would occasionally build a great rapport with them, which led some to ask if they could join me during my free time in port. 

Answering this question was always awkward. I felt like a bad person for declining their invitation, but also felt like I had to be on duty — acting as an unofficial, unpaid tour guide — if I accepted it.

This story was originally published on June 1, 2023, and most recently updated on September 29, 2026.