• Apollo President Jim Zelter says AI will transform the economy, but investment returns are uncertain.
• AI is driving a spending boom, making tech companies more capital intensive.
• His warning comes as debate grows over whether the AI boom may be veering into hype.

Tech companies are pouring trillions into artificial intelligence, but investors shouldn't assume the bets will pay off, Jim Zelter, president of Apollo Global Management, said.

"We've seen this many times in our last 30 years, whether it's cell phones or other technology uses. There's no doubt they're going to have a massive utility," Zelter said on Goldman Sachs' "Exchanges" podcast published on Thursday.

"But is the economic owner going to harvest the right returns for that investment?" he asked.

The buildout is already reshaping the industry's economics. Zelter estimated that US data centers alone could require $5 trillion to $6 trillion over the next five years.

"There's a massive capex cycle going on that's turning an asset-light business into asset-heavy," he said.

And a key question, he added, is what returns shareholders will ultimately see.

"Just because companies need capital, doesn't mean they're all great investments," Zelter said.

For Apollo, the surge in spending represents a financing opportunity — but one that requires discipline.

Zelter said investors shouldn't treat equity-like risk as if it were safe, fixed-income exposure. He emphasized that higher-risk investments need to be compensated accordingly, while lenders should ensure they have strong downside protections.

Zelter's caution comes as debate grows over whether the AI boom is veering into hype.

Other big-name investors have also raised concerns about investor exuberance in AI.

Howard Marks, the cofounder of Oaktree Capital Management, said in December that too many investors have a "lottery-ticket mentality" when it comes to AI.

In February, veteran trader and economist Steve Hanke told Business Insider that AI is "overhyped and potentially dangerous."

A recent KPMG US survey found that three-quarters of large-company CEOs said generative AI may have been overhyped over the past year, even as many said its longer-term disruptive potential remains underappreciated.

But they're still spending: Nearly 80% of the CEOs told KPMG they plan to allocate at least 5% of capital to AI this year.

• Ukraine has released an analysis of North Korean KN-23 and KN-24 missiles it said were used in 2024.
• It said the missiles appeared to be made with "outdated methods," such as in soldering quality.
• The missiles also used less efficient fuel and needed larger engines compared to Russian counterparts.

A new Ukrainian analysis of two North Korean ballistic missile types found that the weapons were built with commercial electronics, but likely made with methods that were outdated by up to 50 years.

Officials said the findings, published by Ukraine's defense ministry on Thursday, came after military engineers and scientists conducted "laboratory studies" on debris from solid-fuel KN-23 and KN-24 missiles used on Ukrainian territory in early 2024.

The report found that while the North Korean missiles bore similarities to Russian counterparts, they used less energy-efficient fuel and required engines that were 50% larger to travel the same range.

"At the same time, outdated methods are used during production, and the quality of the soldering is about 50 years old," the defense ministry wrote.

It added that forensics had found the missiles to be tipped with graphite, a "relatively cheap solution" to protect them from heat while in flight.

The defense ministry said its forensics team identified the KN-23 and KN-24 using South Korean schematics and photographs from North Korean factories, denoting seven key similarities. It added that the KN-23 had a specific frame diameter used only by North Korea.

The KN-23, also known as the Hwasong-11A, was first revealed by Pyongyang during a military parade in 2018, and is often compared to Russia's Iskander-M short-range ballistic missile. The other missile, the KN-24, made its public debut as the Hwasong-11B in 2019, and bears some similarities to the US-made ATACMS tactical ballistic missile.

The Ukrainian report, however, wrote that instead of being direct analogs to the Iskander-9M723 missile, the North Korean missiles showed signs that Pyongyang had "refined some initial version of the Iskander ballistic missile development."

Meanwhile, the missiles' control units were found to contain "civilian components from leading brands," the defense ministry said.

"Pyongyang is apparently purchasing these chips to circumvent sanctions," its statement read.

Ukraine's military intelligence agency, GUR, said in late 2024 that it had found components in the KN-23 and KN-24 manufactured by companies in China, Japan, Switzerland, the UK, and the US.

Kyiv first reported the use of the KN-23 in January of that year, saying that Russia had launched the missiles at Kharkiv. Ukrainian officials said at the time that the munitions were highly inaccurate and unreliable, with at least half exploding in the air before reaching their targets.

The next month, Ukraine also said it had shot down KN-24 missiles launched by Russia against Kyiv. It accused North Korea in early 2025 of supplying the Kremlin with at least 148 ballistic missiles.

Since the start of the war, Russia has sought to strengthen ties with North Korea, receiving troops and arms to help drive Ukraine out of Kursk and sustain its invasion. The US and South Korea have raised concerns beyond that, warning that Pyongyang has been gaining valuable combat knowledge in both troop tactics and arms-making.

• Actor Jane Seymour says dating in her 70s has changed how often she marks milestones.
• She and her partner celebrate their relationship monthly, since it's "a waste of time" to wait a full year.
• Being at the same life stage allows them to support each other through the realities of getting older, she said.

Jane Seymour says dating in her 70s has changed how often she celebrates milestones.

Speaking to Business Insider on Wednesday as part of her partnership with The Body Firm, Seymour said she believes a good relationship can have a positive impact on health.

"For me, I have absolutely found my perfect match in John Zambetti. August 4th will be our third anniversary of living together, being together," the former Bond girl said.

Seymour has been dating Zambetti, a doctor and musician, since 2023 after they met through their children. She is a mother of six, including stepchildren, and has been married four times previously.

"It's very sweet. He celebrates every month on the fourth because he says that we are living dog years at our age, and waiting a year to celebrate is a waste of time," she said.

Even though both of them have busy careers, they still find time for each other.

"That's what's really lovely, to have someone that is so supportive," Seymour said, adding that he often takes photos and videos for her, which end up on her Instagram.

Being at the same life stage helps them relate to each other better, she said.

"I mean, he will understand if my back tweaks out or if I am coughing or have a cold or whatever, and I'm there for him if whatever aging process he's going through," she said. "And we have a sense of humor about it. We're in it together."

For Seymour, that playfulness is a big part of what makes the relationship work.

"We have a lot of fun, and I would say having a great relationship is the icing on the cake," Seymour said.

She has spoken about their relationship in previous interviews. In October, Seymour told Hello Magazine they decided it was "safer" to celebrate every month since they met in their 70s.

"So every month, on the fourth, he sends me roses, wherever I am, whatever's going on. We're just so grateful for every minute we have together," she said.

• I've flown to see Seventeen live multiple times.
• Each concert was incredibly fun in its own way, but one stop in particular was the most unforgettable.
• The K-pop supergroup just wrapped its world tour, with members heading off to new activities.

This is what they call a core memory: Watching the night sky light up with fireworks while dancing in the rain, as your favorite K-pop boy band plays their greatest hits.

Much like Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, K-pop touring is a behemoth of an economic machine, rolling across continents and reaping in billions. I've been a willing participant, watching the boy band Seventeen perform five nights in three Asian cities.

Every stop was enjoyable, but one night of the tour was by far the most memorable.

I watched Seventeen start and end their tour in South Korea

September 13 was the start of my journey with Seventeen's "NEW" tour. Over two days at Incheon's Asiad stadium, the nine active members of the group unveiled their new set list, complete with songs out of the band's song archive, like "Hit" and "Rock With You."

This was also the first time fans heard the group's solo songs live. There was lots of variety, from sweet ballads like Joshua Hong's "Fortunate Change" to leader S.Coups' head-banging hip-hop number "Jungle."

The team's usually in great form, but on a whole other level on home ground

The encore concert in April saw some special performances from Seventeen's units: CxM (the rapper-duo, formed by leader S.Coups and the team's resident Calvin Klein face, Mingyu), and the team's ballad unit, DK and Seungkwan.

Their energy levels were through the roof during a particularly punishing part of the setlist, including high-octane songs like "Hit," "Hot," "Highlight," and "Rock." The group rolled out "Super," one of their most popular tracks by far, and got fans in their feels when the lyrics "I love my team, I love my crew" were splashed across the mega screens.

I especially enjoyed that they rolled out some sentimental songs like "Circles" and "To You," as well as the very fitting "April Shower." I enjoyed the (literal) downpour less as I slogged out of the stadium.

Japan's stops had special songs on the set list

Seventeen performed in four Japanese cities: Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. It's harder to get tickets for concerts in Japan than it is to win the Ticketmaster Hunger Games, because it comes down to luck in a ticket lottery system open only to locals. I snagged a seat alongside a friend who'd bought tickets to the Fukuoka shows.

Japan's merchandise for the shows was top-tier, as was the citywide "Carat Bunkasai" festival that Fukuoka hosted in conjunction with the concert. The Japan shows were also a treat because of the setlist — the band played some of their Japanese tracks, like "Hitorijanai" and "Power of Love," which they don't do elsewhere.

And there's nothing quite like seeing my favorite band in my city, Singapore.

After the chilly winter concerts in Japan, I saw Seventeen in a very different place: sweltering Singapore, my hometown. That was where the group kicked off the Southeast Asia leg of their tour. Even in 90-degree weather, the band rallied, hitting every beat on their intense choreography.

But Seoul's encore concert — one of the last times we'll see some of them before they enlist — just hit different.

Maybe it's the comfort that comes with speaking in Korean — the first language for most of the band. Or maybe the band knew they were at the end of what might be their last tour for a couple of years, as some members are due to report for South Korea's mandatory military service soon. They were candid about their desire to keep performing together well into their thirties — and gave plenty of emotional moments during the concert's last two nights.

The last night of the South Korea encore stop also saw the group standing arm in arm, watching the fireworks. Then they took a bow, one that I could barely see through my tears.

"We kept our promise that all 13 will stay together," S.Coups said, before curtain call. "This has been Seventeen!"

The longevity of bands like Seventeen shows just how sustainable the K-pop business can be

Watching the band live in three cities cemented why Seventeen is one of the K-pop mega-company Hybe's highest-earning groups.

The group's 2023 album, "FML," still holds the record for first-day sales for a K-pop album, with more than 6.4 million copies sold.

Even at nine active members, the "NEW_" tour rolled through 14 cities, going from stadiums across Asia and four US cities. Over 31 shows, the band played to close to a million fans, in person and watching online.

In their 11 years since debut, Seventeen hasn't lost a member in its 13-person lineup. For a third-generation group — a term applied to bands that debuted between 2012 and 2019 — that's rare, as bands often bleed members and fade into obscurity.

Goodbye for now, Seventeen

It'll be a while before I next see Seventeen on tour. Its leader, S.Coups, has vowed that they'll return as a 13-member set, but that might take years.

Still, there's plenty to look forward to, between individual members' globetrotting and fan meetings.

See you soon, Seventeen.

• Labubu's virality propelled Pop Mart to fame last year, with dolls selling out moments after launch.
• Now, Labubu's shine is fading as collectors and analysts warn of a loss of exclusivity with the toy.
• Social media interest around Labubus has dropped, and Pop Mart's stock price has taken a hit.

Kinly McCaffrey, a content creator from Texas, has collected about 30 Labubus, including the plush dolls and vinyl figurines, since the Pop Mart toy went viral last year.

McCaffrey, who has more than 200,000 followers on TikTok, posts blind-box unboxings that rack up millions of views. One of her most viral posts includes a video comparing her Labubu to a "Lafufu" — its janky counterfeit cousin — which has amassed 3.1 million views.

But she said viewer interest in Labubu, and Pop Mart as a whole, has "leveled out."

"I think the value of the collection is declining as Labubu's popularity has been dropping," McCaffrey said. The 26-year-old said that she is focusing on other characters — or intellectual properties, as they're called in the toy industry — more than Labubu for her content.

Pop Mart, a Chinese toymaker, rapidly gained popularity in the West since late 2024, with its "The Monsters" dolls selling out almost immediately upon each new release. Its stock price in September was up 400% year over year.

But since its last annual report, released in March, it appears Pop Mart's hot streak is coming to an end. Market researchers have warned that Pop Mart's over-reliance on one hot IP might be its undoing.

Investors are unsure about Labubu's longevity

On March 25, Pop Mart said in its 2025 annual report that "The Monsters" accounted for about 40% of the company's annual IP revenue. The IP earned 14.16 billion Chinese yuan, or about $2 billion.

Its second- and third-most-sold IPs, Skullpanda and Crybaby, accounted for a combined 18% of total IP revenue.

Pop Mart's stock slid after the annual report, and it's now about 50% below its all-time August high.

Molly Frampton, the strategy director at New York-based brand consultancy Interbrand, said that in IP-driven industries, big success stories almost always begin with one defining moment or breakout IP, such as Mickey Mouse for Disney.

"The risk comes when the brand remains anchored to that single moment for too long," she said.

She added, "The recent market reaction made it clear that investors are increasingly unsure about the company's ability to sustain its momentum without broadening its creative base."

In response to a request for comment, a Pop Mart representative directed Business Insider to comments made by CEO Grant Wang during a March earnings call.

"Looking back, while we acknowledge there are still many issues to address, we have built solid strengths over the past year: a robust IP portfolio, a highly capable management team we take great pride in, and a deep understanding of brand building and market dynamics that we have accumulated," Wang said.

Scarcity and supply

When Labubu started gaining popularity in the US, there weren't a lot of stores in the US.

But its store count in the Americas nearly tripled in a year, from 22 in December 2024 to 64 in December 2025.

Pop Mart US's website stocks plenty of Labubus, from its older "Big into Energy" series to its mini Labubus that went viral last year. A 15-inch plush doll from the recently launched Sanrio collection, priced at $149, is still available.

A North Carolina-based TikTok content creator, who goes by the name Ensito, focuses on collectibles for his TikTok content. He said Labubu's secret to success was the thrill of the chase, trying to own a toy that was always sold out.

"But Pop Mart's popping up around every corner now. So it doesn't feel like it has that exclusivity thing anymore," Ensito, 35, said. The avid Pop Mart collector has amassed over 100 Labubu dolls since November 2024.

He said any of his Labubu blind box unboxing videos on TikTok fetched at least 1,000 views in under 24 hours last year, with no effort needed to hook viewers. Now, he has to try a lot harder, such as using visual tactics to grab viewers' attention in the first few seconds.

Google searches for Labubu peaked worldwide in July 2025, according to Google Trends, and are now about 90% lower.

Joey Khong, a trends manager at London-based market research agency Mintel, said that when everyone knows they can buy a Labubu, it loses its "cool factor."

"A lot of people who found that appeal in its exclusivity, its uniqueness, might not be as excited about it anymore, especially if you see your parents buying it or your aunts and uncles buy it," he said.

In response to the criticism about mass distribution, a Pop Mart representative told Business Insider, "We carefully plan product launches to ensure sufficient supply and reduce the risk of shortages that could artificially drive up prices."

The representative added, "We also use pre-sale mechanisms to limit reseller activity and have increased production capacity to meet growing demand."

A clear path for Pop Mart

Pop Mart has all the elements needed to get itself back on track, experts told Business Insider.

"Pop Mart already has a wealth of IP and characters beyond Labubu, with partnerships with the likes of Disney to Powerpuff Girls and SpongeBob," Frampton from Interbrand said. She said that Pop Mart needs to show the world it can build a world, not just a character.

Work has begun in that direction: Pop Mart announced in March that it would release a Labubu movie with Sony Pictures Entertainment. Its release date is not known.

Frampton said the movie was a move in the right direction, and "the next step is applying that same imagination to some of its other characters."

Mintel's Khong said that at the start, Pop Mart relied on Labubu's strangeness and the clout of celebrities walking around with Labubus on their bags. The movie helps Pop Mart build a "richer universe" around the product, he said.

Ensito, meanwhile, doesn't regret buying over 100 Labubus.

"I didn't really look at my collection as an investment to begin with," he said. "I love them for their sentimental value and the memories associated with them."

• The Trump administration plans to require banks to collect citizenship data from account holders.
• The proposed executive order could cost banks billions and add millions of hours of paperwork.
• The rule could deter some people from banking in the US.

An executive order that's "in progress" could cost banks billions of dollars — and millions of hours.

This week, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent teased a coming executive order requiring banks to obtain citizenship data for new and existing account holders. When asked about potential pushback, he said banks should be ready to comply.

"If Treasury and the banking regulators say it's their job, it's their job," Bessent said on Wednesday.

If that plan becomes reality, banks could face a costly, time-consuming set of new logistical processes. The American Action Forum, a center-right think tank, estimated that the new requirement could add between 30 million and 70 million additional hours of paperwork and cost between $2.6 billion and $5.6 billion.

Banks in the US must verify customers' identities, but citizenship documents aren't necessarily part of that process. Under the federal Customer Identification Program, banks must collect accountholders' names, birthdays, addresses, and taxpayer identification numbers, such as a Social Security Number or an individual taxpayer identification number.

American Action Forum's analysis, based on data from existing verification programs, found that a citizenship verification rule could have broader impacts "if such directives disrupted the banker-customer relationship across a significant number of accounts."

Chasse Rehwinkel, the president of Devon Bank, a community bank in the Chicago area, told Business Insider that requiring banks to verify citizenship would serve no clear regulatory purpose and be burdensome for banks.

He also said that, depending on how the order is implemented, it could dissuade some people from banking if they don't have the necessary paperwork, like a passport or birth certificate, or if they have changed their name or address and the information on their paperwork isn't up to date.

"People that don't have access to banking don't have access to our economic system in the same way and tend to have to rely on predatory lenders," he told Business Insider.

Rehwinkel, who previously served as the banking director for the state of Illinois, said most information collected by banks was for safety and fraud prevention, but that this requirement would be an added regulation without any clear benefit. He also said the policy seemed counter to the Trump administration's objective of deregulation.

"How is this not adding red tape?" he said. "Adding additional collection of information is adding additional regulation."

Higher compliance costs and lost customers

George Braunegg, a professor at the University of Southern California's Marshall School of Business, said there was "no question" the rule would raise banks' costs.

"New onboarding procedures, system upgrades, audits, and legal oversight. These aren't one-time — they're ongoing," he told Business Insider.

He said if it requires banks to collect citizenship data for existing account holders, as is likely, it would cost them both in terms of compliance and in lost customers. Consumers could also pay more as some banks could pass on costs via account fees, he said.

Dissuading people from banking was "one of the more predictable outcomes," Braunegg said, adding that could include people trying to avoid deportation, those with unclear citizenship status, and dual citizens who are "wary of cross-border reporting."

It could also include international or high-net-worth clients, who he said tend to be highly mobile, meaning they can take their banking elsewhere.

"This is where the largest financial stakes are on the revenue," he said.

Braunegg said there could be potential upsides to the new rule, including insights into cross-border money flows, enforcement of sanctions and tax compliance, and easier identification of shell accounts tied to specific jurisdictions. But he said that money laundering risks are typically more closely tied to factors other than citizenship, such as transaction patterns.

Anil Kashyap, professor of economics and finance at the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business, said the requirement could also raise privacy concerns.

"People just may not want to be sharing even more information with the banks," he told Business Insider. "There's already a debate about whether some people don't participate in the financial system because they just don't want to reveal personal information."

The new document requirement, if enacted, would impact a vast majority of Americans. As of 2023, around 96% of US households — roughly 128.0 million in total — were banked, meaning at least one person had a checking or savings account, according to an FDIC survey.

Another immigration-related policy change from the Trump administration has come down hard on banks, which had generally anticipated an era of deregulation and reduced red tape under the president's second term.

President Donald Trump raised the fee for H-1B visa applications to $100,000 in September, and filings at major financial firms, including JPMorgan and Goldman Sachs, have since fallen, according to recent data.

More recently, he floated a 10% cap on credit card interest rates for one year, which many Wall Street leaders said would reduce access to credit. JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon said the plan would be an "economic disaster."

The Treasury and the White House did not respond to requests for comment from Business Insider.

• A German entrepreneur who has lived in China for over 10 years told BI what the OpenClaw hype was like there.
• Thomas Derksen said the OpenClaw craze in China felt like the "beginning of AI for everyone."
• He also shared why he thinks the West should take notes on Chinese adoption.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Thomas Derksen, a German entrepreneur who has lived in China for over a decade. The conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

I have been living in China since 2016 and own a market intelligence business.

There's so much happening in China, and I'm always interested in how things are different in the West and in Asia.

As soon as I saw the news about thousands of people lining up outside Tencent headquarters, I thought it was super interesting. There were so many old people and retirees who showed up.

I brought some friends, and we went to Tencent's headquarters in Shenzhen to install QC Claw. That's their version of OpenClaw, which lives inside the WeChat ecosystem.

I wanted to go because I think this is history. This is the beginning of AI for everyone, not just for computer nerds.

The OpenClaw craze in China

The hype is real. On Xiaohongshu and Xianyu, people started offering paid OpenClaw installation services, charging anywhere from 50 to 700 yuan per setup, or about $7 to $101. That tells you something: Demand was so high that a microeconomy popped up to help people get started.

In the end, it's just a tool. If you offer it to someone without a real use case or business idea, maybe they will use it once and won't use it again.

There are people in China finding real use cases for it. For example, I read a story about someone who runs a lobster shop. She uses OpenClaw to scan her online reviews and figure out what young people want to eat, and adjust her menu based on that. This is amazing. It's actually making a change — and not just a toy.

We also see the Chinese government supporting OpenClaw because it thinks it's good for young people to build their own businesses, particularly one-person businesses.

This is a new trend. It's not about building a team of 100 people. It's one or two people with 100 AI agents.

People in China are more optimistic and curious about technology

In Germany, it's more stable, so people feel their lives are OK as they are.

People in China are more curious, and they have a strong business mindset. They always think about finding ways to make money.

In Asia, I see a drive to build a better life for the next generation. Some people don't think normal jobs will give them a good future, so they try OpenClaw to build something.

There is general openness to technology and innovation. I hope people can see what is happening in Asia, understand it, and learn from it — asking why it is working so well and what can be learned.

Another thing is optimism. People in Asia believe the future can be better if they work hard and learn new things.

When you go to Shenzhen, it's not just Chinese people working there. It's also foreigners. They all come to China because they know there is a strong ecosystem — financing, supply chain, logistics.

China is a great place to build your own startup, especially in innovation, technology, hardware, and robotics. Everyone is passionate and hardworking. There is a sense that the country has real industries where it leads. People can point to concrete sectors and say, "We are strong here."

In Germany, that confidence has eroded. The auto industry, which has been Germany's backbone for decades, is losing ground. Defense spending is a constant source of frustration. Startups have a harder time because taxes are high and there is no strong subsidy culture for new tech.

When your biggest industry is under pressure, and you do not see what replaces it, pessimism sets in.

The difference in how people react to something like OpenClaw reflects that. In China, a crayfish shop owner sees a tool and thinks: Maybe I can use this to grow my business. In Germany, the first reaction would more likely be: Will this take my job?

Do you have a story to share about tech in Asia? Contact this reporter at cmlee@businessinsider.com.

• Kathy Hochul and Zohran Mamdani proposed a tax on New York City second homes worth over $5 million.
• Critics were quick to attack the proposal, arguing that it would drive wealth out of the city.
• NY hedge fund manager Daniel Loeb hinted at relocating; others called the proposal "class warfare."

A New York City tax proposal targeting ultrawealthy homeowners is drawing fierce backlash from business and financial figures.

"NYC is cooked," wrote Austin-based entrepreneur Jason Calacanis in a post on X, capturing a wave of alarm among investors, executives, and conservative commentators after Gov. Kathy Hochul and Mayor Zohran Mamdani introduced a plan to tax second homes in the city valued above $5 million.

Mamdani said that the so-called pied-à-terre tax is expected to raise roughly $500 million annually to fund priorities such as childcare, transportation, and public safety. The tax has not yet been enacted, and implementation dates were not included in the announcement. Hochul said about 13,000 properties would be affected.

The proposal has become a flash point in a broader debate over wealth, taxation, and New York City's economic future. Supporters frame the proposed tax as a targeted measure on part-time residents with high-value properties, while critics argue it risks creating an exodus of affluent homeowners and investors.

Data from JLL, a commercial real estate firm, shows that demand for leased office space in Manhattan is up and vacancies are down since Mamdani took office, continuing a trend that began before he won the election last year.

While many of Mamdani's economic proposals have sparked heavy debate, Olivia Becker, the director of video for Mamdani's office, wrote in a post on X that a clip of the Mayor announcing the tax, posted on April 15, is "now our most viewed video of all time."

Those who oppose the proposal

President Donald Trump blasted the idea on Truth Social, saying Mamdani is "DESTROYING New York," while Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas suggested the proposal would drive wealth out of the city.

"Texas & Florida realtors' phones are ringing…." Cruz wrote on X.

Hedge fund manager Daniel Loeb, whose firm Third Point has been based in the city since its founding in 1995, retweeted a post by Sen. Ashley Moody of Florida that showed a close-up of Mamdani's face from the announcement video, along with her own comment, "last thing you see before you move to Florida."

Loeb's post underscored concerns shared by some ultrawealthy that the tax could push capital — and high earners — out of New York.

New York-based hedge fund billionaire Bill Ackman warned of unintended economic consequences, writing on X that "non-residents who spend millions of dollars on NYC apartments help drive NYC's economy."

Although "Mamdani likes the tag line 'Tax the rich,'" his policies "will harm the constituencies he is supposedly trying to help," Ackman wrote.

Others, including Calacanis, described the plan as "class warfare" and took issue with Mamdani's video, in which he pointed to Miami-based Citadel CEO Ken Griffin's $238 million penthouse as an example of the type of properties he was targeting.

Calacanis, who moved from San Francisco to Austin in 2024, also said he'd be "tempted to come back and fix this mess," floating the idea of a potential mayoral run. Linda Yaccarino, the New York-based former CEO of X, responded to Calacanis that she'd be "happy to help."

In a separate post, Yaccarino called Mamdani's video proposing the tax "actually one of the scariest things I have seen."

Eric Chaffee, a professor of tax and business law at Case Western Reserve University, told Business Insider that the proposal, especially so close to Mamdani's inauguration, is a definite political victory. He said it remains unclear whether the tax will benefit New York City residents the way Mamdani has suggested.

"The predicted $500 million is an aggressive number, and it really assumes that there's not going to be enterprising lawyers out there, individuals who are very smart about how they go about thinking about their taxes, figuring out ways to get around it," Chaffee said.

There may be some departures from New York to other American cities, like San Francisco or Chicago, Chaffee said, but "Manhattan's a wonderful place to be."

"For individuals who are ultrawealthy and own these $5 million properties, some of them are going to be willing to actually pay this amount to stay in the city — others will probably figure out ways to get around this particular tax," Chaffee said. "But, at the same time, this is unlikely, really, to affect New York City that much in terms of making the ultrawealthy leave."

Representatives from Mayor Mamdani's and Gov. Hochul's offices did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Business Insider.

• Emma Grede's comment on being a "max three-hour mum" on weekends sparked a heated parenting debate.
• Grede's remarks highlight the challenges faced by ambitious working moms.
• Business Insider spoke to four high-achieving moms. Some agreed with Grede, and one pushed back on her style.

Three hours was all it took to ignite the latest parenting debate.

When Skims cofounder Emma Grede, a mother of four, described herself as a "max three-hour mum" on weekends in a recent Wall Street Journal interview, saying that instead she focuses on creating "high-impact, core memories" with her children, reactions ranged from validation to outrage.

Grede responded, saying during an April 14 appearance on "Today with Jenna and Sheinelle" that she was "caught off guard" by the intensity of the viral response and that women entrepreneurs are "held to such an impossible standard both as parents, but also as businesswomen."

The author not only sparked a broader conversation about parenting styles but also highlighted the pressures working mothers face to be present at home while remaining ambitious at work — a balance that often feels impossible to get right.

The reality is that there is no universal formula for how much time you need to spend parenting your children. And yet, the expectation that mothers should somehow get it exactly right persists.

When Grede put a number on her own experience, it didn't just spark discussion; it forced a conversation many women are having privately. About trade-offs. About ambition. About the quiet recalculations of work-life balance happening every single day.

So Business Insider asked four working mothers to share how they think about time, presence, and managing competing demands of work and family.

Alex Otto, a marketing consultant and mother of 3, says she was raised much like Grede is raising her children.

When you heard Emma Grede say she spends about three hours a day with her children on the weekends, what was your reaction?

I've actually lived that experience, but from the child's perspective. My mom was a corporate banker in the 90s, and she was probably away from home just as much.

What I remember is that most of our time together happened in the mornings and evenings, which are the busiest parts of the day. You're getting ready for school, winding down, doing dinner, and baths. So it made me think about whether those are actually quality hours.

I also immediately thought about the level of support she must have. To maintain a career like that, there has to be a very strong support system in place.

How do you personally define enough time with your children?

I honestly don't know how to define it, and I think I'm still figuring that out. I have three kids, and even though I'm with them a lot, I don't always feel like I'm giving each of them the undivided attention they deserve.

I think balance shifts depending on the season you're in. Right now, my kids are young and need a lot, so it feels like a constant juggle. I want a balanced life, and I don't think doing only career or only family is the answer, but I also don't know exactly where that line is yet.

How do guilt, fulfillment, and ambition factor into that balance?

My kids are incredibly fulfilling, but so is my work. I've gone back to school for my MBA, and that takes me away a couple of days a month, but it's also something that challenges me and fulfills me in a different way.

I think sometimes we don't talk enough about how important it is for moms to have things that stimulate them outside their children. Not just self-care, but real intellectual or professional fulfillment.

Do you think conversations like this help or harm working mothers?

They're incredibly important. This isn't just a "mom problem," it's something the entire family should be thinking about, including partners and workplaces.

The more we talk about how hard it is to balance raising kids, running a household, and building a career, the better. It also helps remind bosses and leaders, especially those who may be past this stage, how challenging it really is.

Crystal Foote, an entrepreneur of an ad tech company and mother of 2, sees herself in Grede.

When you heard Emma Grede say she spends about three hours a day with her children on the weekends, what was your reaction?

I agreed with her. Schedules change day to day, and it's hard to balance everything when you're building something at that level. Who are we to shame a mother for building billion-dollar brands while raising multiple children? She's trying to do it all, and that's not easy.

How do you personally define enough time with your children?

I can't quantify it. Every week is different. I co-mingle my time… It's about making it work in real time.

How do guilt, fulfillment, and ambition factor into that balance?

I've had to make real sacrifices. I had a conference in New York the same week as my kids' spring break trip to the Bahamas. I couldn't cancel it. I had a panel, a sponsorship, and meetings with major brands. So I flew to the Bahamas for a few days, then back to New York, then back again. Did I spend every possible hour with my kids that week? No. But I'm also building something to provide for them long term.

Do you think conversations like this help or harm working mothers?

I think they help. These kinds of honest conversations don't usually happen. When women in leadership, like a CMO or a founder, speak openly about the reality, even if there's backlash, it helps normalize it. It stops everything from being framed through outdated gender roles and allows women to define success on their own terms.

Mandy Castillo, owner of a family-owned ice cream and dairy farm and mother of 2, rejects Grede's parenting style.

When you heard Emma Grede say she spends about three hours a day with her children on the weekends, what was your reaction?

I couldn't feel more opposite from that. My kids are my favorite people, and I want to spend as much time with them as possible. Everything I do is either building something for them or figuring out how to bring them into what I'm doing so we can be together.

How do you personally define enough time with your children?

I don't think there is 'enough.' When you really think about how little time you have before they grow up and [then they] don't need you in the same way, it changes everything.

My oldest is about to turn 14, and I can already see how fast it's going. Every second I have with them is one less second I get. So for me, I'll take any opportunity I can to be with them.

How do guilt, fulfillment, and ambition factor into that balance?

It depends on the support you have at home. It matters. My dad was at everything growing up, and that's the standard I want for my kids.

At the same time, I think moms still carry a different kind of mental load. Even when both parents are working, there are things like day-to-day details and the "magic" of the home that moms tend to take on more.

I was building a business while raising babies at the same time. There were definitely moments where I felt like I was failing on both ends. I would take my kids everywhere with me, to work, to jobs, to everything, because I didn't have another option.

It's not that you don't want to be with your kids. It's that doing both at the same time is really hard.

Do you think conversations like this help or harm working mothers?

They help because there's no one right way to do this. Everyone's situation is different, from finances to childcare to where you live.

Talking to other moms who are figuring it out is encouraging. You won't get it perfectly right. You'll try, adjust, and keep going. What matters is building that relationship with your kids.

Ashleigh Coaxum, the owner of a stationery store and mother of 2, was impressed that Grede put a number on it.

When you heard Emma Grede say she spends about three hours a day with her children on the weekends, what was your reaction?

I thought she was being realistic. It's hard to juggle being the CEO of your house and the CEO of your business. The fact that she can even quantify her time tells me she's intentional about it. There's time for play, and there's time for work.

How do you personally define enough time with your children?

I don't think there is "enough" time. I try to be mindful of the season we're in as a family. If my kids need more from me emotionally or socially, I adjust my schedule. I'm more fluid.

At the end of the day, your children are with you for life, so you don't want to shortchange them in the short term and have it impact them long term.

How do guilt, fulfillment, and ambition factor into that balance?

Ambition comes with a lot of sacrifice, and balancing it isn't easy. A village and a supportive spouse are so important to make it all work. And it also really depends on the season you're in with your children; all of those factors matter when it comes to balance.

Do you think conversations like this help or harm working mothers?

The conversation is a bit misplaced. People are doing the best they can. These kinds of takes might make for good sound bites, but they don't actually help parents figure out how to balance raising kids while also providing a stable life.

Affordable, sustainable, and trendy, Ana Luisa has proved itself to be the most practical jewelry source for most people. Whether you like classic hoops or trendy sculptural studs, this brand has something for everyone.

After wearing their gold and gold-plated pieces consistently, we gave it the top spot in our guide to the best places to buy affordable fine jewelry, and it's stayed there for for years. 

As the folks on the r/frugalfemalefashion subreddit have said, it's not all perfect (I found its stainless steel chains had slowly tarnished by the end of summer spent swimming and sweating), but none whatsoever have broken or snapped. Ultimately, I can say their gold earrings are totally worth it for those who like simple, beautiful pieces that don't require precious care.

Fortunately, every piece comes with a 2-year warranty. But if you're curious about trying Ana Luisa and want something that'll last, you should go for the gold. Its fine jewelry collection is a sure bet: each piece is made with 100% recycled solid 10-karat gold and maintains a beautiful shine, even after everyday wear.

Co-founders David and Adam built Ana Luisa to be a brand that's open about its design strategy in order cut down on emissions (even though most of the jewelry industry is cagey about its manufacturing processes). It debuts small batch drops of products to see which styles resonate, prioritizes its best-sellers, then discontinues anything that creates more waste than profit.

Here's what our team of style editors thought after trying Ana Luisa jewelry for ourselves.

Gabi's review of the Pebble necklace

"Pendant necklaces are a lovely type of jewelry, but they're not typically what I go for, since they're usually they're adorned with some sort of talisman or coin. The Pebble pendant necklace, however is a simple, sculptural teardrop that subtly reflects light with its asymmetrical, oblong design. I've worn it for over a year and its sustained some light scratching on the front. Still, it's my favorite Ana Luisa necklace so far (and there's also matching Pebble stud earrings, so you can wear them all as a set).

The necklace is surprisingly lightweight and its long, thin chain pairs well with a button-down or V-neck sweater. You can make it longer or shorter with its three hoops, so it's perfect for creating a layered look." — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews.

Gabi's review of the Dakota Marble Blue Earrings

I was drawn to these chunky trapezoids because their blue marbling reminds me of the Dutch delft pottery which adorns my grandmother's china cabinet. These hoops are lightweight, and the 14k gold-plated brass feel good on my lobes even after 12 hours of wear. — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews

Sam's review of the Julie Cho Pearl Choker and Double Hoop Earrings

"I'm incredibly sensitive to nickel — so much so that I get a rash within minutes if the jewelry I put on contains any of the metal. Even pieces that say they're for sensitive skin or contain no nickel often corrode, leaving the irritating metal exposed. But I've been wearing Ana Luisa pieces for over a year with absolutely no issues. The pieces still feel great and I've never once felt even a whiff of irritation, let alone a rash. I'm also a fan of how lightweight the jewelry, particularly the earrings, are. Even with somewhat chunky hoops, I can forget that I'm wearing them. 

"And when it comes to style, Ana Luisa really hits the mark. They're great at making jewelry that you actually want to wear. As someone who loves everyday jewelry but feels uninspired by ultra-delicate, tiny pieces, I love that Ana Luisa isn't afraid to venture into bolder silhouettes." — Samantha Crozier, style and beauty editor, Insider Reviews. 

Gabi's review of the Kiara earrings, the viral Bottega Veneta dupes

These are a dupe of the Bottega Veneta earrings that went viral last season. They're chunky, gold, and kind of look like a water drop or a quotation mark. The originals cost $820, which is a pretty penny for a trendy piece. But Ana Luisa makes a pair that looks exactly the same but only costs $75.

Here's what our style editor Gabrielle Chase had to say: "Ana Luisa's Kiara earrings are hypoallergenic and dipped in 14 karat gold that's polished to a shiny, tarnish-resistant finish. Even for a statement earring, they're the perfect size for me to wear casually like the it-girls who popularized them tend to do (though I must first pay credit to all the elementary school art teachers who made chunky jewelry cool to begin with). This affordable alternative is practically indistinguishable from the real Bottega Veneta earrings, and best of all, they cost over $800 less."

See Gabi's full review of Ana Luisa's Bottega dupe earrings to hear more about why she loves them so much. 

Gabi's review of Ana Luisa's silver-plated jewelry

"I will admit that I do not take precious care of my jewelry. I tend towards earrings and necklaces that are comfortable to shower, swim, and sleep in, because anything too delicate won't last with the way I operate.

This Ana Luisa chain bundle is only silver in color: the earrings are rhodium, and the chains are a mix of stainless steel and brass, but their shiny coating is hypoallergenic and water-resistant.

The hoops and snake chain have stayed in perfect condition for months, but the clasp on the steel Figaro chain has slowly began to tarnish. It's the single instance I've noticed this from Ana Luisa jewelry. For this reason I recommend that if you're shopping silver jewelry from Ana Luisa, make sure it's genuine sterling silver or rhodium on brass instead of stainless steel. Otherwise, you may be following up on their 2-year warranty." — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews

Gabi's review of Ana Luisa's Sofia earrings, a Cartier dupe

Ana Luisa's designer dupe collection includes styles for fans of classic statement jewelry. The Sofia studs ($75) look just like these rare vintage Cartier shell earrings and remind me of the Art Deco revival of the 1980s. I like that they come with sturdy rubber back stoppers to hold the chunky earrings in place. — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews.

Gabi's review of the Slim Nova ring

"Here I am, wearing a ring for the first time since I lost one when I was seven years old. I decided then and there I wasn't responsible enough to wear rings. This ring is hard to miss, though, as you can see by the way it refracts light with its textured design. I like that it's lightweight and slim enough to stack with. The hollow ridge on its interior feels like a place for dirt to get trapped, though, so I use a soft toothbrush to get it thoroughly clean.

The Slim Nova ring is part of Ana Luisa's Voyager collection, which is the brand's expansion into affordable fine jewelry with a sustainable edge. These pieces are made with 100% recycled metals and are a bit more expensive because they're made with solid gold. The metal has maintained a brilliant shine, and despite gold's malleability, has proven to be totally dent-proof during everyday wear. — Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews.

Gabi's review of the Sloane earrings

"I love a stacked earring look, but since I only have my lobes pierced, I have to get creative in order to pull it off. The Sloane stud earrings are how I do it. You can also wear them with a gold cuff, and it makes it you look like you were brave enough to face the needle more than once.

They're just the right size to hug the lobes, but aren't big enough to be a statement earring, either — this way, I can wear them daily as an edgy departure from my plain hoop earrings." Gabrielle Chase, associate style editor, Insider Reviews.

Lily's review of the Hana Marble Blue Earrings

When they first arrived I — like many other buyers that left reviews — was confused about which side faces forward as only one side has the marble design on it. The other side is gold.

In most brand photos, the models have the earrings with the blue facing outwards, but there is a picture of someone else on the site wearing them the opposite way. I tried wearing them both ways and preferred having the pattern facing forward, especially when I had a lot of video calls or wore my hair down. 

There are several iterations of this design including, the Kinoko Marble Blue for people interested in the texture but looking for a different shape, and the Hana Wave for anyone who likes the shape but not the pattern.

Lily's review of the Rope Slim Ring

The Rope Slim Ring stood out as my favorite piece of all. It was comfortable and stylish, and I found myself reaching for it all the time.

You can choose from nine sizes from 4 to 12. The 7 size ring fit really well on my thumb, pointer, and middle fingers. 

Interestingly, this ring seemed to be really familiar to others. I had family tell me it looked like an old school ring my grandmother had worn and friends tell me it looks like a similar trendy ring from Mejuri as the ring is timeless and embraced by people with different styles.

The bottom line

Wearing Ana Luisa jewelry, I feel put together and stylish, and excited to be supporting a brand that is serious about sustainability.

In fact, David shared with Business Insider that Ana Luisa "became Climate Neutral Certified, and have worked with this nonprofit organization on building a 2-year reduction plan to decrease carbon emissions in [their] supply chain." 

I'm a big fan of Ana Luisa and am going to make sure I check out all of their new drops when I see their next Instagram ad.

• Reed Hastings, who helped start Netflix in the late 1990s, is leaving the company's board.
• Hastings, who was CEO until 2023, will focus on "philanthropy and other pursuits," Netflix said.
• Co-CEO Ted Sarandos said Hastings modeled "a selfless, disciplined leadership style."

Netflix cofounder Reed Hastings will soon leave the company he helped turn from a DVD rental business into a streaming TV giant.

Hastings won't seek reelection to Netflix's board and will split from the company in June, Netflix said on Thursday as it shared its first-quarter earnings report.

Hastings, who was Netflix's CEO until 2023, will focus on "philanthropy and other pursuits," the company said. The Netflix cofounder's philanthropy includes giving $1.1 billion to the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, a large Bay Area charity, and helping launch the Hastings Initiative for AI and Humanity at Bowdoin College.

Hastings has also been heavily involved in developing the Utah ski resort Powder Mountain.

Forbes estimates Hastings' net worth at $5.8 billion.

"Reed built a culture of innovation, integrity and high performance that defines who we are today," Netflix said in its first-quarter shareholder letter. "His vision and leadership pioneered how the world is entertained, and his legacy and impact are not only felt by all of us at Netflix, but by audiences around the world."

In the shareholder letter, Hastings, who cofounded the company in 1997, said his "real contribution at Netflix wasn't a single decision."

"It was a focus on member joy, building a culture that others could inherit and improve, and building a company that could be both beloved by members and wildly successful for generations to come," Hastings said in the letter.

Hastings gave a shout-out to his successors, co-CEOs Greg Peters and Ted Sarandos, "whose commitment to Netflix's greatness is so strong that I can now focus on new things."

Peters said in the shareholder letter that "Reed will always be Netflix's founder and biggest champion," adding that "his vision, entrepreneurship, and steadfast commitment to our values have shaped every stage of our journey and continue to shape how Ted and I lead Netflix today."

Sarandos said that Hastings "has modeled for Greg and me a selfless, disciplined leadership style that will continue to shape how we lead Netflix in the exciting times ahead."

Netflix shares fell over 9.1% in after-hours trading following its first-quarter earnings report. Its second-quarter guidance came in lower than some investors anticipated.

Joanna Strober, founder and CEO of Midi Health, knew there was a business opportunity in women's health, but it took grit and patience to help investors see it too. What started as a mission to provide digital care for menopausal women has quickly scaled into a unicorn company with big growth ambitions.

Strober sat down with editor in chief Jamie Heller at Business Insider Live's The Long Play event in San Francisco.

US track and field standout Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is expecting her first child, with a due date in July. The athlete shared that she has scaled back her training, emphasizing that her baby's health is now her top priority.

• Netflix slightly beat revenue and operating income estimates in its first quarter earnings.
• Shares tumbled in after-hours trading after weak guidance for the second quarter.
• Cofounder Reed Hastings will leave the board in June.

Netflix's post-Warner Bros. honeymoon is over.

Wall Street wasn't pleased with the streaming giant's first-quarter earnings report, which was also its first since it backed out of its bid for WBD's streaming and studio assets.

Netflix's stock dropped by over 9% in after-hours trading. Netflix beat both revenue and earnings estimates last quarter, the company told investors on Thursday afternoon. However, Netflix's second-quarter guidance came in below Wall Street's estimates.

Netflix also announced that cofounder and former CEO Reed Hastings will leave the board in June.

"Netflix changed my life in so many ways, and my all‑time favorite memory was January 2016, when we enabled nearly the entire planet to enjoy our service," Hastings said in a statement. "My real contribution at Netflix wasn't a single decision; it was a focus on member joy, building a culture that others could inherit and improve, and building a company that could be both beloved by members and wildly successful for generations to come."

Netflix's revenue rose 16% to $12.25 billion in the first quarter, just over the consensus estimate of around $12.2 billion, as tracked by S&P Global.

Operating income also rose to $3.96 billion, roughly in line with the $3.9 billion estimate. Earnings per share came in at $1.23, well above S&P Global's estimate of $0.77, in part because of the $2.8 billion breakup fee that Netflix collected from Paramount Skydance.

Shares had risen by more than 40% from their late-February low, when doubts mounted about the company's chances of landing Warner Bros.

Wall Street wasn't a fan of Netflix's WBD deal, as its shares had lost about a third of their value during its pursuit of the company's streaming and studios assets.

Boosting prices and ad revenue

Ahead of Netflix's earnings report, analysts focused on two key catalysts: its recent price hikes and its growing advertising business.

Netflix raised prices by $1 to $2 a month in mid-March. Its ad tier now costs $8.99 a month, compared to $19.99 a month for its ad-free standard plan and $26.99 for its premium plan.

Luke Stillman, an advertising analyst at research firm Madison & Wall, told Business Insider before Netflix's earnings report that "there's more runway than most people believe to increase subscription prices."

If Netflix subscribers balk at the cost of its pricier plans, they can trade down to its ad plan, which costs as much or less than comparable plans from other major streaming services.

Adding more ad-tier subscribers can help Netflix land larger brand deals and higher ad rates, said Mike Proulx, the marketing research director at Forrester.

Netflix on Thursday reiterated its forecast to double ad revenue from $1.5 billion last year to around $3 billion in 2026.

• Allbirds' stock surged on news that the company is leaving behind the shoe business for AI.
• Wall Street pros have voiced skepticism about the move.
• Some see Allbirds' strategy to win back investors reminiscent of dot-com-era bubble trends.

Allbirds became a meme stock this week after announcing a plan to leave sneakers behind and enter the world of AI infrastructure.

The stock saw stunning gains of more than 800% on Wednesday, but the rally waned on Thursday. Shares fell as much as 30% in the session.

Allbirds sold its shoe business for $39 million at the end of March, and is now planning to use a $50 million convertible financing facility to break into the world of AI computing infrastructure. It's a big business, to be sure, but much larger companies in the space, like CoreWeave, have faced challenges and volatility in both their stock and bonds.

One advantage may be that Allbirds—which is now NewBird AI—is getting into the game at a time when commentators are voicing concern that the supply of critical compute infrastructure is lagging demand. Still, it's an audacious plan of the kind many other companies have tried before (remember Long Island Blockchain Corp?).

Here's what investing pros have been saying about Allbirds' AI pivot:

Allbirds' AI bet is "peak silliness"

"Going from selling wool sneakers to chasing AI compute might be one of the wildest pivots this cycle," Futurum's chief market strategist, Shay Boloor, said.

Futurum CEO Daniel Newman reacted, saying it's "the most ridiculous pivot I've ever seen." The analyst flagged that Allbird's surge came as funds flowed out of what he called "more legitimate AI REITs," like CipherMining, TeraWulf, and IREN Limited.

"This will end badly. $50 million to build an AI cloud. Peak silliness," Newman posted as the stock surged.

Dot-com bubble echoes

Liz Ann Sonders, Schwab Center for Financial Research's chief market strategist, said she was skeptical.

"I have no skin in the game and don't cover individual stocks, but this AllBirds story of a struggling consumer brand with a recognizable name using a public shell to access a hot thematic narrative … the business doesn't matter, only the association does; in the '90s it was internet commerce; now it's GPU infrastructure."

Mark Malek, investment chief at Siebert Financial, also made comparisons to the dot-com times, noting that companies that are betting on endless demand for resources like AI compute are asking for trouble.

"The burst will come," he said.

"A drop in the bucket"

William Blair analysts published a note following the news notifying clients that they were dropping coverage of Allbirds on the AI strategy shift.

"This is by any measure a Hail Mary… And yet, shares have gone hyperbolic, trading at an enterprise value around $140 million on the news from closer to $10 million prerelease."

"There is no valuation metric here with the wind-down of the footwear business and deep uncertainty about its new endeavors in cloud compute," they added.

The analysts mention that the $50 million the company plans to use to fund its shift into AI infrastrucutre is "a drop in the bucket in the broader neocloud market, where most companies run capex budgets well into the billions of dollars. "

BIRD soars as stock market hits fresh record high

Citrini, the research firm behind the hypothetical AI doomsday scenario that rattled investors earlier in the year, joked, "Can we please wait until we're like at least 5% above previous all time highs to start doing this" about Allbird's massive surge.

"When a company that sold its shoe brand for $39 million—less than ten cents on the dollar of its peak valuation—can add a $127 million of market capitalization in a single trading session simply by announcing a pivot to GPU leasing, the market is not pricing risk," Financial's Mark Malek said.

• Business Insider got a look at Zohran Mamdani's 2025 tax return.
• He reported earning $1,643 in rap royalties last year, up from $1,267 in 2024.
• He and his wife, Rama Duwaji, also got a $7,011 refund.

Zohran Mamdani is still making money from his old rap career.

The New York City mayor's 2025 tax returns, viewed by Business Insider, include $1,643 in royalties — an increase from the $1,267 he reported for 2024.

Long before he was first elected to the New York State Assembly in 2020, Mamdani had a short-lived rap career under the moniker "Young Cardamom."

Mamdani filed jointly with his wife, Rama Duwaji. The documents show that she made $8,860 for graphic design work and wrote off several expenses, including $500 in art supplies, $250 in web hosting costs, $300 from small equipment and software, and $100 for shipping and packaging.

The couple also got a $7,011 tax refund, including $5,704 from the federal government and $1,307 from New York state.

The average tax refund for individual filers this year is $3,462, according to the latest IRS data, though couples typically see a higher refund.

In total, the couple reported a joint income of $143,634 for 2025, the bulk of which came from the $131,296 that Mamdani earned as a state assemblyman. The couple also reported $1,599 in capital gains income.

The disclosure comes as Mamdani promotes a new wealth tax on second homes worth more than $5 million.

The mayor highlighted the policy while standing in front of billionaire Ken Griffin's penthouse, which sits in a building overlooking Central Park.

Next year's tax return is likely to look a lot different for Mamdani than the last two years.

As mayor, he's now earning an annual salary of $258,750, over $100,000 more than he earned in the state assembly.

He's also saving money on rent. Like most mayors before him (aside from Mike Bloomberg), Mamdani opted to move into Gracie Mansion, the official mayoral residence on the Upper East Side.

Update: After scouring the internet for REI coupons and promo codes, we've found no active vouchers at this time. We'll keep hunting for new discounts and continue to update this page as we find them, so keep checking back for additional information. In the meantime, you can explore REI's ongoing deals below or head back to your cart.

REI is the go-to retailer when it comes to outdoor adventures, with supplies for all types of activities. Whether you need gear for a camping trip or you're just hoping to update your gym clothes, there's something for every level of activity. REI, which is available to shop both in-store and online, carries gear, apparel, and accessories from an impressive selection of popular brands. The Co-op already has some of the best prices on the market, but you can lower the price of your cart even more by applying one of the best REI coupons we've tested.

While REI carries basics like tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags, the retailer's inventory extends far beyond that. You can even get essential winter sports gear, including snowboards, skis, goggles, and helmets. REI also offers a wide range of performance-driven apparel and footwear designed for durability and comfort. Our style team is especially fond of the Take Your Time 7/8 Leggings, which offer breathable compression and buttery-soft comfort that rivals far more expensive options we've tested.

One of the best parts of REI is the REI Outlet, the shopping destination where past-season favorites are often marked down significantly. There, savvy shoppers will find lots to love from top brands like Patagonia, The North Face, and Arc'teryx, among others. You can even stack REI promo codes with outlet deals and other seasonal sales to unlock the lowest possible prices.

We've rounded up the best current REI offers below to help save you time from having to hunt them down yourself. The deals include coupon codes, general sales, and volume discounts. Make sure to browse all of the discounts below to ensure you're getting the lowest possible prices before you set out on your next great adventure.

Today's best REI coupons and promo codes

Previous REI coupons

Are there any other REI sales running at the moment?

REI usually has some form of sale running on the website at any given time, often across a variety of items. Sometimes this is a general offer on several products, and other times it's a special promo if you buy a certain number of products or bundle purchases together. You can check the "Deals" page of REI's website at any moment to see a full list of their current deals and markdowns. At the time of writing, REI is running the following promotions:

As part of REI's Member Days promotion, REI Co-op members can get special access to select deals through March 23. These items may not be eligible for additional discounts. Check out some of the deals below:

• Follow our Instagram page and WhatsApp channel for more deals and buying guides

How to use REI discount codes

Start by adding coupon-eligible items to your cart. From the "Shopping Cart" page, continue to checkout by logging into your co-op account or continuing as a guest. Once you've entered your contact and shipping information, you can apply a discount code by clicking the "Apply a coupon" dropdown, pasting a code into the "Enter code" text box, and clicking "Apply." From there, enter your payment information and submit your order.

Can you stack REI promo codes?

REI does not allow coupons to be stacked together. Only one discount code may be applied per order.

REI coupon frequently asked questions

Does REI offer discounts for students, teachers, and the military?

At the time of writing, REI doesn't offer any special discounts for teachers, students, or members of the military. This means that your best way to save is to take advantage of promo codes and other ongoing deals.

However, select other retailers offer discounts for these groups. If you're a student or educator, check out our roundups of the best student discounts and teacher discounts to see more savings offers from your favorite brands.

Do I have to be a co-op member to shop at REI?

You don't have to be a member of the co-op to shop at REI. However, co-op members enjoy a lot of perks, like free shipping on all orders, special discounts, and more, so joining may be worth it if you're a frequent shopper. Co-op membership requires a one-off fee of $30 for lifetime access, with no annual renewal costs. Learn more about the co-op on REI's website.

Does REI offer free shipping?

REI offers free standard shipping on all orders for co-op members, with no minimum spending required. Non-members can get free standard shipping on orders over $60. Learn more about shipping terms and exclusions on REI's website.

What is REI's return policy?

REI has generous return policies for both co-op members and non-members, but the return period differs depending on whether you're a member. In most cases, co-op members have a full 365-day period after the original purchase to return all eligible items. Non-members have a 90-day return window for all eligible items. Outdoor electronic returns must be done within 90 days for both co-op members and non-members. Certain items have different return windows, so be sure to check the terms and conditions on REI's website.

Can I use an REI promo code in-store?

For the most part, REI coupon and promo codes are only valid for online orders. That said, there would be exceptions, so it's worth reading the terms and conditions on any code you're planning to use.

Looking for more deals? Check out our roundup of the best Athleta coupons.

 AI is transformative, but it's still often wrong. Carina Hong wants to fix that problem with her startup, Axiom Math. She sat down with Senior Correspondent Ben Bergman at Business Insider's The Long Play event in San Francisco.

Hong explained how she has attracted top talent from across Silicon Valley, and where her company — already valued at $1.6 billion — is headed next.

Disruption may be hitting Hollywood hard, but it's not slowing down Jason Blum, whose powerhouse studio, Blumhouse, is behind many of the most popular — and most profitable — horror films of the past 10 years.

In conversation with Chief Correspondent Peter Kafka, Blum unpacked how AI is changing the entertainment industry and how his unique business approach allows Blumhouse to thrive in a time where consumer behaviors are shifting. The two spoke at Business Insider Live's The Long Play event in San Francisco.

Bryan Johnson, a tech entrepreneur, longevity influencer, and founder of Immortals, shared his thoughts on aging, optimizing for improved work life balance, and how founders in "monk mode" risk getting in their own way.

He sat down with with Zak Jason, executive editor of the Discourse team, during Business Insider's The Long Play event in San Francisco, California.

Sephora is basically synonymous with beauty shopping at this point. The retailer carries everything from skincare and hair care to luxury makeup, fragrance, and tools, making it an easy one-stop shop whether you're trying a new viral brand or restocking everyday essentials. And while Sephora doesn't run traditional discounts as often as some competitors, using a Sephora coupon code can still help you save on your next order.

The best Sephora deals are often tied to perks rather than straight markdowns. Depending on what's available, a Sephora promo code can unlock free samples, deluxe gifts, Beauty Insider rewards, and limited-time offers that help you stretch your budget or experiment with new products before committing to full sizes. It's a smart way to refresh your routine without overhauling your spending.

To make shopping easier, we've gathered the best Sephora promo codes and current deals we've tested in one place. Browse the offers below to get the most value out of your next Sephora haul.

Today's best Sephora coupons

Previous Sephora promo codes

Are there any other Sephora sales running at the moment?

You can find a full list of current markdowns on the "Sale" page of Sephora's website at any time. As of the time of writing, Sephora is running the following promotions.

• Follow our Instagram page and WhatsApp channel on mobile for more deals, reviews, and shopping guides

How to use Sephora coupon codes

Start by creating or logging in to a Beauty Insider account, then add coupon-eligible items to your basket. On the cart page, you can apply a coupon by pasting the code into the "Promo Code" text box and clicking "Apply." The code will then be applied, or if the code you entered offers multiple free gifts, you'll first be prompted to make your selection. Once the coupon is added, continue to checkout to enter your shipping and billing information.

Can you stack Sephora promo codes?

Sephora does not allow coupons to be stacked together. Only one promo code may be applied per order.

Sephora coupon frequently asked questions

Do I need to join the Beauty Insider program to use Sephora promo codes?

Most Sephora coupons are only valid for Beauty Insider members, so they cannot be used on guest orders. That said, the program is free to join and comes with many perks, including free shipping on all orders, a free birthday gift each year, access to exclusive deals, and more. Learn more and sign up on Sephora's website.

Does Sephora offer free shipping?

Sephora offers free standard shipping on all orders to Beauty Insider members. For orders using guest checkout, Sephora offers free shipping if you spend $50 or more. Learn more about shipping rates and times on Sephora's website.

What is Sephora's return policy?

Sephora allows new or gently used products to be returned for a full refund by mail or in-store within 30 days of the original purchase. Learn more about how to make returns or exchanges on Sephora's website.

Can I use Sephora coupon codes in-store?

Most Sephora promo codes are only eligible for online purchases. However, there may be some exceptions, so be sure to check the specific terms and conditions for the code you want to use.

Score more beauty deals with our roundup of the best Olive & June discount codes.

• Allbirds' plan to trade shoe stores for data centers won't be easy to pull off.
• The company needs more money, expertise, and relationships with hyperscalers.
• It could also try to acquire a private company already doing this work.

In November, Allbirds told shareholders it was on the brink of insolvency. Transforming the shoe company into an AI compute company is its last-ditch plan.

It won't be easy.

Allbirds, which intends to change its name to NewBird AI, currently lacks the money, the physical assets, the expertise, and the relationships it will need to compete in an increasingly crowded space, AI industry insiders say.

Here's what the company would have to do to reinvent itself.

Raise more money

Allbirds last month said it had sold its shoe business and the underlying intellectual property for $39 million. The company Wednesday said it had raised $50 million in a convertible note that it could use to purchase graphics processing units used to train and deploy AI language models.

Even so, Allbirds' war chest, some $90 million or so, is still small change in an industry that's raising tens of billions of dollars to build the data centers and buy the chips needed to run large language models. And the company owned no warehouses or real-estate assets as of the end of 2025, according to company filings. Allbirds didn't respond to a request for comment for this story.

CoreWeave, the leader of a class of firms known as neoclouds that Allbirds appears aimed at joining, plans to spend $30 to $35 billion this year building its capacity.

"To run institutional grade compute clusters it can be in the order of a couple hundred, a few hundred million, at least," Warren Hosseinion, the head of capital markets at GPU investor Compute Labs, told Business Insider.

Find customers

One of the first tasks will be signing contracts with the likes of Amazon, Google, Meta or Microsoft. Allbirds could then use those contracts to secure the additional financing to buy more GPUs.

Though CoreWeave has pioneered such a model, Allbirds may struggle to persuade potential partners as well as potential investors that it's in the game for the long haul, AI industry executives said.

"If you can pass the underwriting diligence…that will be their biggest hurdle," Hosseinion said.

Consider an acquisition

One way for Allbirds to move faster would be to acquire a private company already doing this work, said Darren Kimura, CEO of AI Squared, which helps companies deploy artificial intelligence tools.

The merged company would then be publicly traded and have access to public markets capital.

Allbirds' $50 million in financing should be enough to hire a management team, some chips, and begin what would essentially be a proof of concept, Kimura said.

"You could buy enough to get going, and use that as an example to demonstrate the model working, and then build it out."

Hire leaders with AI experience

AI infrastructure companies need management with expertise in politics and energy, said Paul Calatayud, the founder of AI data center developer VoltScape, who said he has several billion-dollar-plus projects under development.

"Somewhere in between there has to be a group that knows how to handle running a data center," he said.

Allbirds Chief Executive Joe Vernachio, who succeeded founder Joey Zwillinger in 2024, comes from the retail clothing industry. He led a turnaround at Mountain Hardwear, and also held executive roles at The North Face and Spyder Active Sports, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Annie Mitchell, the CFO, worked at Gymshark and Adidas before joining Allbirds, according to a press release announcing her hire.

Both executives will receive retention bonuses if they stay at the company through the closing of the sale of the shoes business, expected sometime in the second quarter. It's unclear how much longer after that they will stick around.

Update: After searching for Abercrombie promo codes and testing various listed options, we've been unable to find any active coupons at the time of writing. We'll continue to hunt for potential coupons and keep this page updated as we find them. In the meantime, you can browse other Abercrombie deals below or return to your cart.

For wardrobe basics that don't feel basic, Abercrombie is still a go-to. The retailer carries everything from best-selling denim and polished workwear to cozy loungewear and everyday staples, often with frequent markdowns throughout the season. And if you shop with an Abercrombie promo code or Abercrombie coupon, it's even easier to score your favorite styles for less at checkout.

Our style editors have tested a wide range of Abercrombie jeans over the years, evaluating fit, comfort, and construction, and the brand consistently ranks among our top denim picks — including in our guide to the best jeans for tall women. Whether you prefer straight-leg, relaxed, flare, or high-rise silhouettes, Abercrombie denim delivers a reliable mix of trend-forward design and everyday wearability. For more details on sizing and how each style fits, check out our full Abercrombie jeans review.

Abercrombie discount codes aren't always available, but they're worth watching for—especially since some can stack with sale prices for bigger savings. To make shopping easier, we've rounded up the best Abercrombie promo codes and current deals below so you can get the lowest price on your next haul.

Today's best Abercrombie promo codes

Previous Abercrombie discount codes

Are there any other Abercrombie sales running at the moment?

You can find a full list of sales and markdowns any time on Abercrombie's "Sale" page. As of the time of writing, Abercrombie is running the following promotions.

• Follow our Instagram page and WhatsApp channel for more deals and buying guides

How to use Abercrombie discount codes

Start by adding qualifying items to your cart. Once you're on the "Shopping Bag" page, you can apply a promo code by clicking the "Promotions" dropdown, pasting the code into the "Promo Code" text box, and clicking "Apply." From there, continue to checkout to enter your shipping and billing information.

Can you stack Abercrombie promo codes?

Abercrombie does not allow discount codes to be stacked together. Only one code may be applied per purchase.

Abercrombie discount code frequently asked questions

Does Abercrombie offer discounts for students, teachers, and the military?

At this time, Abercrombie does not offer special discounts for students, teachers, or the military, so your best bet is to take advantage of their other coupons and deals.

If you're a student or educator, check out our roundups of the best student discounts and best teacher discounts to save more from your favorite brands.

Can Abercrombie promo codes be used in-store?

Abercrombie discount codes can be used both online and in-store. To use one in person, simply show the cashier the promotion offer on Abercrombie's website.

Does Abercrombie offer free shipping?

Abercrombie offers free shipping on all orders over $99. However, gift card-only orders ship for free with standard shipping. For other orders that don't hit the $99 threshold, standard shipping costs $7. If you need faster delivery, you can pay higher shipping fees. Learn more about shipping rates and times on Abercrombie's website.

What is Abercrombie's return policy?

Shoppers can return items in-store or by mail within 30 days of delivery for a full refund. VIP members of the myAbercrombie rewards program can return items for a full refund within 60 days of delivery. Learn more about how to make returns and exchanges on Abercrombie's website.

Can I reuse an Abercrombie promo code?

Most Abercrombie promo codes are designed for a single use only. That said, there may be exceptions, so be sure to check the terms and conditions for the specific promo code you want to use.

Still shopping? Check out our guide to the best work dresses. Also, read our roundup of the best Spanx coupon and promo codes for more style deals.

Even for those with the most comprehensive cable packages, streaming services have become all but necessary to keep up with select sports and original TV shows. Fortunately, there are deals on nearly every streaming service out there, especially when it comes to opting in for an annual plan or bundling multiple services together. Below, we've highlighted all of the best streaming deals and bundles, from Disney to Amazon and everything in between.

Many of these discounts are standard year-round offerings, but we'll keep this page updated with the latest limited-time deals, so you won't need to worry about missing out on a potential savings opportunity. After scouring the internet for deals this month, we've found some new savings on Disney Plus and Hulu bundles, deals on monthly and annual Starz plans, and multiple introductory offers on Fubo and DirecTV, among other options for savvy shoppers.

Check out each streaming service's currently available deals below. We've highlighted both standard streaming services and live TV packages, with price comparisons for how much you'd pay per year with a month-to-month plan or how much you'd pay per month without bundling multiple services together. Many of the streamers offer introductory deals for new and/or eligible returning customers, which we've also outlined. You learn more about our recommendations in our guides to how we test streaming services and how we find and vet deals.

Paramount+

There are always year-round savings with Paramount+ annual plans compared to paying month-to-month. Essential plans cost $7.99 a month, and the Premium tier goes for $12.99 a month. If you opt for annual, you end up saving about $35 a year for either plan. Essential gives subscribers ad-supported on-demand content, while the Premium upgrade offers an ad-free on-demand experience, CBS live streaming, Showtime programming, and other perks. Paramount+ Essential (or Peacock Premium, if you'd prefer that) is also included with all Walmart+ plans, from monthly ($12.95 a month) to annual ($98 a year).

If you just want to stick with a monthly plan, you can head to the Paramount+ website.

Disney Plus and Hulu

Disney (and several of its partners) offers the greatest number of deals through bundles. There are savings if you bundle Disney+ with Hulu, with Hulu and HBO Max, with Hulu and ESPN, with Hulu + Live TV, or if you just get an annual Disney+ ad-free subscription. We recommend trying out one of the Disney+ and Hulu combos no matter what, since you get two entire on-demand subscriptions for only $1 a month more than the price of one.

There's also a brand-new savings opportunity for the Disney Plus and Hulu bundles. If you commit to a six-month plan (billed monthly), you can get a cheaper monthly fee in your first six months. For the ad-supported bundle, it will cost $11.99 a month for six months ($71.94 total), before you begin getting charged the then-standard monthly fee (currently $12.99 a month). For the ad-free bundle, that's $17.99 a month for six months ($107.94 total), before subscriptions revert to their then-standard monthly rate (currently $19.99 a month).

If you plan to stick with just one streaming service or want to try a month-to-month subscription first, you can head to the Disney+ website for more information.

ESPN

There are two tiers of ESPN's streaming service: ESPN Select (formerly ESPN Plus, for $12.99 a month) and ESPN Unlimited (for $29.99 a month). Both plans also have annual subscription options, which offer year-over-year savings compared to paying monthly for 12 months. You can also save if you bundle ESPN Unlimited with other services, like Disney+, Hulu, NFL Plus Premium, or FOX One.

The ESPN Unlimited and NFL Plus Premium bundle costs $39.99 a month, which is decent savings when compared to the $44.98 you'd pay each month if you subscribed to the services separately. The ESPN Unlimited and FOX One bundle offers slightly more savings at $39.99 a month, compared to the $49.98 you'd pay if subscribed separately. You can learn more about the Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN bundles in the section above.

If you'd rather try a monthly plan or explore the bundle deal, you can go to the ESPN website. 

Peacock

Peacock's monthly plans go for $10.99 or $16.99 a month, so the annual plans add up to about 12 months for the price of the 10. The Premium tier offers on-demand and select live coverage with ads, while Premium Plus has ad-free on-demand content and a 24/7 live stream of NBC. The service boasts select live sports and classic comedies, like The Office, Parks and Rec, and Saturday Night Live. There's also a pared-down Peacock Select tier, which costs $7.99 a month or $79.99 a year. This plan only includes ad-supported on-demand current season and library content from NBC and Bravo shows, in addition to some other select programming (but no movies, live events/sports, or Peacock Originals).

Peacock and Apple TV also recently launched two bundle options: one for Peacock Premium and Apple TV, and another for Peacock Premium Plus and Apple TV. Subscriptions cost $14.99 and $19.99, respectively, a significant savings opportunity compared to what you'd pay for both services separately each month. Additionally, Peacock Premium (or Paramount+ Essential, depending on what you prefer) is included with Walmart+ subscriptions, which cost $12.95 a month or $98 a year. Instacart+, which costs $9.99 a month or $99 a year, also comes with Peacock Premium access.

You can check out the Peacock website if you'd rather subscribe to a monthly plan.

Apple TV

Apple TV typically costs $12.99 a month, but users can find savings in an annual plan, which costs $99. The annual plan wasn't impacted by the price increase, so the current offer saves subscribers a little over $56 each year. It's worth noting that you might need to sign up for a monthly plan first and then opt into annual billing. Beginning in the 2026 season, all MLS matches will be available to Apple TV subscribers, so they won't need to pay for the extra MLS Season Pass. You can find info about the new Apple TV and Peacock bundles in the Peacock section above.

If you're interested in learning more about Apple TV Plus or other Apple services, you can visit the Apple TV Plus website for additional information.

Prime Video

Prime Video is Amazon's streaming counterpart, but if you're not interested in having a full Amazon Prime membership (which includes access to Prime Video), you can subscribe to Prime Video on its own for $8.99 a month. However, you can find some solid savings each year with an annual subscription to Amazon Prime, which costs $139. Additionally, you can access ad-free on-demand streaming on Prime Video content for an extra $2.99 a month (starting April 10, that will cost $4.99 a month).

Prime Video also allows customers to subscribe to external streaming services through their account, and these sign-ups often come with special deals in the form of discounted bundles. Some of the best Prime Video add-on deals available right now are for the AMC+ Premium, Starz, and MGM+ bundle ($21.99 a month, compared to the $30.97 you'd pay each month if you subscribed to each service separately), the Hallmark+ and discovery+ bundle ($12.99 a month, compared to the $17.98 a month you'd pay each month if you subscribed to each service separately), and the HBO Max and Cinemax bundle ($22.99 a month, compared to the $28.48 you'd pay each month if you subscribed to each service separately).

If you'd rather try a monthly plan or just stick with Prime Video, you can find more information on the Prime Video storefront.

DAZN

DAZN has become an absolute hub for boxing, hosting some of the most-anticipated matches around the globe each year. DAZN also offers other select sports, usually without a PPV fee, although boxing is its focus. Most major fights require a subscription and pay-per-view (PPV) fee, but you can find some savings by opting for one of the annual plans. Flexible month-to-month subscriptions cost $30.99 a month, but you can save by opting for the 12-Month Monthly Saver plan, which reduces your monthly bill to $20.99 a month on a one-year contract.

There's also an up-front annual plan, which costs $224.99 a year. DAZN has also introduced a new Ultimate plan, which costs $44.99 a month on an annual contract or $449.99 up front for a year. The Ultimate tier includes at least 12 PPV fights a year at no extra cost.

For more information on DAZN's plans and PPV offerings, you can explore the DAZN website.

Starz

Starz subscriptions typically cost $11.99 a month, $45.99 for six months, or $69.99 for a year, but the streamer is usually running a promo on at least one of its plans at any given moment. Right now, customers can get about 49% off a year of service by opting for a $35.99 annual plan. If you're only interested in trying STARZ for a few months, there's also an option to get your first three months for $4.99 a month. You can also bundle a STARZ subscription with BritBox, the North American streaming home of several BBC and ITV series. This costs $14.99 a month, which breaks down to about 35% off the cost of subscribing to both streaming services separately each month.

If you're interested in learning more about the different subscriptions, you can check out the Starz website.

HBO Max

There are three tiers of HBO Max, previously Max (and before that, also HBO Max), in addition to a Disney/HBO Max/Hulu bundle, which we've highlighted above. The standard monthly price for HBO Max with Ads is $10.99, HBO Max Ad-Free is $18.49, and HBO Max Ultimate Ad-Free is $22.99. The ad-free tiers also include sports live streaming for games that air on Warner Bros. channels, like TNT and TBS. The annual version of each plan offers about 17% off in total per year, which is not a bad deal if HBO Max is something you're planning to hang onto in the long run. You can learn more about the Disney Plus, Hulu, and HBO Max bundles in the Disney Plus section above.

You can go to the HBO Max website if you'd rather just sign up for a month-to-month plan right now.

Crunchyroll

Crunchyroll is a popular anime-centric streaming service that has some decent savings opportunities when you subscribe to one of its three tiers of service on an annual basis. Monthly subscriptions range from $9.99 a month to $17.99 a month, and their annual counterparts range from $99.99 a year to $179.99 a year. Year-to-year, annual subscriptions are about 17% cheaper across the board than what you'd pay in total after 12 months on a monthly subscription.

You can learn more about the various plans through the Crunchyroll website.

DirecTV

DirecTV, formerly DirecTV Stream, is another comprehensive live TV streaming service with pretty much all of the channels you'll find in a standard cable package. New subscribers can save on their first 24 months of Signature packages, including discounts on the Entertainment, Choice, Ultimate, and Premier plans. First-time customers can also get $35 off their first month of Choice, $40 off their first month of Ultimate, and $45 off their first month of Premier. Just keep in mind that the actual monthly prices might be a bit higher after paying the required regional sports fees and/or any necessary Gemini lease fees. Users can also save some money on their first two months of DirecTV's MySports genre pack.

If you're interested in learning more about DirecTV, check out the DirecTV website for additional information.

Sling TV

Sling TV has developed a reputation as one of the most affordable live TV streaming packages on the market, and it's also chock-full of deals. There are several main plans to choose from: Sling Select, Sling Essentials, Sling Orange, Sling Blue, the Sling Select + Essentials combo, and the Sling Orange + Blue combo. Individual Orange and Blue plans cost $45.99 a month each or $60.99 a month for both, and Sling Select and Essentials start at $19.99 a month each or $34.99 a month for both. If you have a plan that gets local channels, Sling Blue costs $49.99 a month, Sling Select costs $24.99 a month, and Sling Orange + Blue costs $64.99 a month.

You can save by prepaying for three months of any of these plans. Prepaid plans range from $49.99 for three months of Sling Select to $159.99 for three months of Sling Orange + Blue. Sling also offers all sorts of deals if you add on a streaming service through your Sling subscription, including first-month savings on Paramount+ with Showtime (Premium), AMC+, and STARZ.

If you want to explore Sling TV and its add-ons, visit the Sling website for more information.

Fubo

Fubo is a slightly more expensive live TV service, with standard plans starting at $73.99 a month (a recent price reduction following the NBCU blackout on Fubo), but the sports-centric cable alternative offers more than 200 channels at the touch of a button. The service offers everything from local networks to niche, traditionally cable channels, with a few exceptions. The streamer currently offers $25 off its Pro plans, $30 off Elite plans, and $5 off its Latino plan for the first month of service. Fubo's brand-new Sports plan will also knock $10 off the first month of service.

For additional plans and channel information, head to Fubo's website.

Streaming device deals

If you've gotten yourself all set up with a streaming service but you still need a way to watch it on your TV, then it might be time to purchase a streaming device. These are particularly helpful tools for those without smart TVs, which typically come with streaming apps available to download or already installed (although you'll still need to pay for a subscription to use them). Several of our favorite picks are on sale this month, including Roku, Fire TV, and Google TV devices.

Wireless and grocery streaming deals

One of the cool things about streaming services is that they're often already included with other subscriptions or contracts, or these services allow you to sign up for a streamer or bundle at a reduced price. Mobile carriers and grocery delivery services have some of the best offers, and we've rounded up some of the top options below. Cellular providers typically involve long-term contracts, so we encourage potential customers to read the fine print carefully.

TCL has steadily become one of the top TV brands I recommend, especially if you're after great picture quality at an affordable price. The best TCL TVs regularly undercut comparable models from LG, Samsung, and Sony while still delivering impressive image performance. That value is most evident in TCL's QD-Mini LED lineup, which combines vibrant colors and strong contrast at prices hard to beat.

The QM8K earns my highest recommendation. In our tests, it delivered outstanding brightness and excellent local dimming control, making it a great choice for bright rooms and home theaters alike. If you're looking to spend less, the QM6K is an ideal budget TV. It's not as bright, but it's one of the most affordable Mini LED TVs I've reviewed, and I love that it supports a fast 144Hz refresh rate for gaming.

The best TCL TVs are available in multiple screen sizes, and the company boasts one of the biggest collections of extra-large sets on the market, including massive 98- and even 115-inch models. This makes its TVs particularly good options for viewers who want a big display for sports and movie nights.

Our top picks for the best TCL TVs

Best overall: TCL QM8K - See at Amazon

Best budget: TCL QM6K - See at Amazon

Best midrange: TCL QM7K - See at Amazon

Best high-end: TCL X11L - See at Amazon

Best entry-level: TCL S5 - See at Amazon

Best overall

The QM8K is my pick for the best TCL TV. It goes toe-to-toe with pricier flagship sets from other brands. In fact, the QM8K actually surpasses the performance of many similarly priced TVs from Sony and Samsung.

This is TCL's top upper-midrange TV, featuring a QLED screen with a Mini LED backlight and full-array local dimming. Those features enable excellent contrast control, allowing the TV to dim and brighten specific portions of its panel. The QM8K has more dimming zones than the brand's step-down QM7K and QM6K models, so it can deliver even deeper black levels and higher brightness.

Using the TV's most accurate picture settings, our reviewer measured a peak of 3,648 nits on an industry-standard 10% window. That's an impressive number, easily making the QM8K one of the brightest TVs in its class. You can adjust the screen's luminance to help overcome glare in rooms that struggle with light, and it can produce vibrant, high-dynamic-range images when watching HDR content on streaming services and 4K Blu-ray discs. You can learn more in our HDR TV guide.

Bright specular highlights, such as explosions, lightning bursts, gunshots, sunrises, shimmering waters, and other dazzling effects, pop with the bold impact that filmmakers intended. On dimmer TVs, some of these extreme elements can appear duller than intended or look blown out, with missing detail. The QM8K can display them with brilliant radiance.

Our reviewer was also impressed by the QM8K's ability to minimize backlight flaws, such as blooming and vignetting, which are typically present in TVs of this type. These imperfections cause distracting halos or crushed shadows to appear around bright objects. Even top Mini LED models from Samsung are not immune to this kind of behavior. But the QM8K's backlight system is nearly free from these quirks. Its contrast control still isn't as precise as the pixel-level dimming of an OLED TV, but it's remarkably close.

TCL TVs have traditionally struggled with viewing angles, but the QM8K makes some improvements over past models. Contrast and color degrade less when you sit off to the side of the TV than they did on the older QM8. There are still some quality shifts, but not to the point where the image looks washed out.

Like most of TCL's top TV models, the QM8K runs Google TV, which offers smooth navigation and access to numerous apps. The QM8K is also fully equipped for gaming, supporting a refresh rate of up to 144Hz. However, the TV falls short of the 165Hz offered by some high-end competing sets from LG and Samsung.

Special note should also be made of the QM8K's design, which stands out from the brand's cheaper models thanks to its ZeroBorder panel. This styling minimizes the black border around the TV's image, so most of the screen shows the display's picture without any framing. In contrast, most TVs have a thin, visible black border around their image. The QM8K is sold in 65-, 75-, 85-, and 98-inch sizes.

Read our full TCL QM8K 4K TV review.

Check out our guide to the best TVs for picture quality.

Best budget

The QM6K sits at the bottom of TCL's QD-Mini LED lineup, yet it delivers solid picture quality for such a budget-friendly TV. The 65-inch model is regularly sold for around $600, making it one of the few Mini LED TVs available at such a low price.

Despite being the most affordable offering in TCL's Mini LED collection, the QM6K still features all the core components found on other QM models, including quantum dots, local dimming, a 144Hz refresh rate, and Google TV streaming. However, the QM6K is notably dimmer than the QM7K and QM8K, and its contrast is a clear step below theirs.

When reviewing the TV, I measured a peak of around 557 nits on a 10% test pattern and about 736 nits on a 50% test pattern. Those are respectable numbers for a TV in this class, but they represent a significant step down from TCL's more expensive offerings. This was evident when watching many HDR movies and TV shows, as highlights were noticeably dimmer than on the QM7K, lacking the full impact they were intended to have. Likewise, this dimmer image makes the QM6K less suitable for rooms with lots of ambient light.

That said, the QM6K is still bright and colorful enough to deliver benefits when watching HDR content, and the display serves as a good entry point for those who want to enjoy high-dynamic-range videos on a budget. The TV's dimming performance is also quite impressive, with similar halo and blooming control as the QM7K. Black levels appear slightly lighter, but overall uniformity is excellent.

Viewing angles are also decent for a budget QLED, but they're not as wide as the QM7K or QM8K. Off-axis viewing is improved over TCL's older Q65 model, but the image still washes out slightly at angles.

Despite some compromises, the QM6K is an ideal entry point for anyone seeking an affordable home theater TV that still delivers worthwhile HDR quality and contrast. It's available in 55-, 65-, 75-, 85-, and 98-inch sizes.

Read our full TCL QM6K 4K TV review.

Check out our guide to all the best budget TVs and best gaming TVs.

Best midrange

TCL's QM7K is the company's best midrange TV. In fact, this set is one of the top TVs in its class from any brand. It's one step below the flagship QM8K, and it carries over most of that model's advanced features while coming in at a lower price point.

Like the QM8K, the QM7K uses a Mini LED backlight with quantum dots, local dimming, a 144Hz refresh rate, and access to the smooth and reliable Google TV interface. However, this model's backlight isn't quite as advanced as it uses fewer dimming zones. This means the QM7K's contrast and brightness are a bit lower than those of the QM8K. Of course, that's to be expected, and the QM7K still performs great considering its lower cost.

Using a 10% test pattern, I measured a peak of around 1,800 nits on the QM7K. Though that's about half the brightness of the QM8K, it's still an impressive number for a midrange TV. Extra-bright HDR movies that push beyond 2,000 nits, such as "Mad Max: Fury Road" and "Aquaman," lack some of the luster you'd get on the QM8K, but the QM7K can display most content with pleasingly bold, vibrant highlights.

The TV's backlighting system is also great for its tier and offers notable improvements over the older QM7 model. Although I encountered some uneven dimming in dark scenes during testing of the QM7, the newer QM7K is virtually free of this imperfection. Blooming and halos were almost completely absent, even during particularly tricky scenes that I use to test local dimming.

That said, the QM7K's black levels aren't perfect. Black bars in widescreen movies never quite disappear into a dark room the way they do on OLED TVs or some higher-end QLEDs. Perhaps as a result of the TV's anti-halo system, black levels in HDR content are always slightly elevated, but you'll only notice it in a pitch-black room.

Although viewing angles aren't as wide as those of the QM8K, they're still better than those of older TCL TVs. Contrast and color shift from off-axis, but I could sit at my desk, positioned at an angle from the TV, and still enjoy solid image quality.

The QM7K is available in 55-, 65-, 75-, 85-, 98-, and 115-inch sizes. Though I think the QM8K is worth the extra money if you're a home theater enthusiast or are planning to put your TV in a very bright room, the QM7K's overall value is hard to beat. This is the best TCL TV for buyers who want to save some cash while still enjoying excellent HDR performance.

Check out our guides to all of the best TVs, best smart TVs, and best TVs for sports.

Best high-end

The TCL X11L is one of the most advanced TVs on the market. But unlike other TCL models, this one carries a pretty steep price tag.

What makes the X11L so special is its use of SQD display technology. SQD stands for super quantum dots, and though that may sound like empty marketing talk, it translates to a genuine step up in performance over regular QLED TVs. The X11L's large super quantum dots and enhanced color filter deliver some of the best color performance I've seen on a TV.

I measured around 88% of the BT.2020 color space. That's the second widest range I've ever recorded on a TV, just behind Samsung's R95H Micro RGB TV. Though most movies and TV shows don't require such an expanded color gamut, this level of coverage ensures the TV can display rich, bold saturation when called for.

Like TCL's QM Series TVs, the X11L uses a Mini LED backlight to control its light output. But this model's local dimming system features more zones, which helps to enable the best black-level performance I've seen outside an OLED TV. Halos around bright objects are virtually nonexistent, and dark elements appear deep and inky, even in a pitch-black room. I did notice faint vertical streaking on black backgrounds in some content, but you really have to be looking for it to spot it.

Brightness is another area where the X11L is an industry leader. Using a 10% HDR test pattern in the TV's default Filmmaker Mode, I measured around 2,600 nits of brightness. That's already a great number, but with some adjustments, I was able to get a consistent 4,000 nits, with a brief burst to around 6,000 nits. And when all the TV's brightness-boosting settings were maxed out, it hit short bursts of up to 9,300 nits. Though that's not how I'd recommend watching the TV, that is the brightest measurement I've ever recorded.

All of these raw numbers translate to incredible image quality when watching actual movies and TV shows. High-brightness HDR content pops with intense highlights that deliver greater impact than TCL's other TVs can, and black levels disappear into a dark room more consistently than I've seen on the brand's other QLEDs. This contrast creates a sense of dimension that even the QM8K can't match. Really, the only notable image-quality limitation here is the TV's viewing angles. They're good for an LED-based TV, but still a clear step behind OLED. This means color and contrast do still distort if you're off to the side of the display.

The X11L's physical design also matches its premium picture. The TV has an elegant build with a bronze-tinged finish and an extremely thin bezel, minimizing the border around the screen. I was also impressed by the X11L's Google TV interface, which was smooth, reliable, and extra smart thanks to Gemini AI. Though I don't find all of Gemini's chatbot-style features particularly useful on a TV, its ability to understand conversational queries and follow-ups is helpful for finding content.

Ultimately, the X11L's biggest downside is its cost. While most TCL TVs are known for their competitive pricing, the X11L is notably more expensive than the brand's other offerings. Right now, the 85-inch X11L is $7,999, which is even more than brand-new flagship OLED TVs, like the 83-inch Samsung S95H and LG G6. A 98-inch model is available for $9,999, and a 75-inch model will be available in the coming months. I'm optimistic that the TV will get big discounts during deal events, but for now, the X11L is squarely for enthusiasts with deep pockets.

Read our full TCL X11L 4K TV review.

Best entry-level

The S5 is one of TCL's standard LED TV models. It's a solid fit for people who just want a cheap yet reliable smart TV for basic viewing. It's also available in smaller 50- and 43-inch screen sizes, making it a suitable secondary set for a bedroom.

Unlike my other picks, this model does not use a QD-Mini LED panel, so it has notable limitations in color, contrast, and brightness. The TV can't dim separate zones across its screen, so its black levels look lighter and more washed out when watching videos with the lights off.

While it technically supports HDR processing, its contrast and brightness are too low to properly showcase HDR's benefits. It's also too dim to overcome substantial glare in rooms with lots of windows. Viewing angles are the narrowest of any TV in this guide, so sit as close to the center as possible for the best image. And the panel's refresh rate is limited to 60Hz, so it can't support high frame rate modes on a gaming console or PC.

Though all of those drawbacks are important to note, the S5 is priced accordingly. The 65-inch model is typically around $370. This is an entry-level set, and it works well within that context. The S5 isn't meant for home theater fans or hardcore gamers. It's geared toward casual viewers who primarily watch cable TV and standard dynamic range (SDR) streaming content. It can't wow with bright highlights and inky black levels, but it still delivers a sharp, colorful 4K image.

I also like that TCL offers a choice between Fire TV and Google TV models. I prefer the Google TV interface thanks to its more streamlined design, but it's nice to have an option with an Alexa voice remote if you're already plugged into Amazon's ecosystem.

Check out our guide to all the best TVs under $500.

How we test TCL TVs

To evaluate the best TCL TVs, our reviewers got hands-on with the brand's top QD-Mini LED models and put them through our extensive testing process. We've been covering home entertainment products for over a decade, and used that experience to inform our methodology.

Brightness and color are measured using test patterns and calibration software. Though this process offers a great idea of a TV's technical capabilities, it's even more important to evaluate how a display looks when watching actual real-world content. To accomplish this, we use each TCL TV we review the same way we use any TV in our home: by watching a variety of shows and movies in both bright and dark environments.

We also use a curated selection of scenes from various titles to showcase different aspects of image quality, including black levels, contrast, HDR highlights, color gradients, viewing angles, upscaling, and local dimming.

In addition to image quality, we test smart TV features and assess overall usability and smoothness during navigation, streaming, and voice searches. We also consider overall build quality and general value for the money.

For more details on our testing process, check out our breakdown on how we review tech products.

Meet the expert behind this guide:

Steven Cohen, senior tech editor: I've been reviewing home entertainment gear for over a decade, and my team and I test TVs year-round. We regularly get hands-on with the latest TCL models, and I also stay plugged into the industry by attending product briefings and events to see new display tech before it hits shelves. My goal is simple: cut through the specs and marketing hype to help you find the best TCL TV for your setup.

Learn more about the Reviews team at Business Insider.

TCL TV FAQs

Is TCL a good TV brand?

TCL has cemented itself as one of the top value-forward brands in the TV market. The company offers a wide range of affordable display models, as well as several midrange and high-end offerings that rival more expensive TVs from companies like Samsung, Sony, and LG. For instance, TCL's QM8K Mini LED TV compares favorably to Samsung's flagship QN90F and even bests it in several performance metrics, but costs substantially less. That said, the brand isn't perfect.

In the past, we've encountered occasional software glitches and other bugs when reviewing TCL TVs, typically related to certain settings not working properly or adjusting when they're not supposed to. Although no TV brand is immune to glitches, we've found Sony, LG, and Samsung models to be somewhat more reliable. However, we didn't experience any notable glitches while reviewing the company's latest 2025 and 2026 TV lineup, suggesting TCL has made improvements in this regard.

Build quality is another area where TCL has traditionally lagged behind pricier brands, so its TVs tend to be a bit cheaper in construction and lack some of the flashier design perks you might find in pricier options. This is most evident in its entry-level and midrange offerings rather than its premium models.

However, none of the bugs or build limitations we've encountered on TCL TVs have ever been significant enough to prevent us from recommending the brand. As it stands, the best TCL TVs are among the best value displays on the market, and our overall experience with the company's products has been positive.

If you do want to browse models from other companies, be sure to check out our additional TV buying guides:

• Best 4K TVs
• Best Hisense TVs
• Best Sony TVs
• Best Samsung TVs
• Best LG TVs
• Best Roku TVs

When will 2026 TCL TVs be available?

TCL announced several new 2026 TV models at the CES tech tradeshow in January. Though pricing and availability for most models are still pending, the company launched its latest flagship TV, the X11L, during the event. The X11L is now available in 85- and 98-inch sizes, with a 75-inch model arriving in the coming months.

You can learn more about TCL's newest displays in our 2026 TV roundup.

Is TCL taking over Sony's TV business?

In March 2026, Sony and TCL entered a definitive agreement to form a strategic partnership focused on Sony's home entertainment business, including TVs. The new partnership will take the form of a subsidiary, Bravia Inc., which will start operations in April 2027. TCL will hold a 51% stake in Bravia Inc., while Sony will retain the remaining 49%. The new joint venture will be headquartered at Sony's Osaki office in Tokyo, Japan. You can learn more at the Sony website.

Speaking on the joint venture, a Sony representative said, "Bravia Inc. brings together Sony's high-quality picture and sound technology, premium brand value, and operational expertise, alongside TCL's advanced display technology, global scale, manufacturing footprint, end-to-end cost efficiency, and vertically integrated supply-chain capabilities."

Though it's too early to know exactly how this partnership will affect Sony's TV lineup, in theory, it could result in more affordable Sony Bravia models that benefit from TCL's budget-friendly approach without abandoning Sony's highly rated picture processing.

What kinds of TVs does TCL make?

TCL offers a range of LED, QLED, SQD, and RGB Mini LED TV models catering to various budgets and performance levels.

The company's LED TVs include 4K and HD models geared toward budget buyers seeking an entry-level TV for casual use. These models include the company's S-, 4-, and 3-Series TVs. Though fine for basic smart TV needs, they offer limited contrast, brightness, and color capabilities.

Meanwhile, the brand's QLED models offer much better picture quality. Some of TCL's QLED displays also have advanced Mini LED backlights. These flagship models are branded as QD-Mini LED, and they include the QM6, QM7, QM8, and QM9 Series. These TVs offer substantially brighter images than a standard LED model with much higher contrast ratios and deeper black levels. This makes the company's QD-Mini LED TVs best suited for buyers who prioritize image performance.

In 2026, the brand is also introducing two new TV types: SQD TVs and RGB Mini LED TVs. TCL's SQD TVs use super quantum dots, while the RGB Mini LED TVs will use an RGB backlight. The brand's first SQD TV, the X11L, delivers not only the most impressive image quality we've seen on a TCL TV, but also some of the most impressive picture performance we've seen on any TV. Meanwhile, it remains to be seen how TCL's RGB Mini LED TVs perform, but the tech promises improvements in color and brightness over traditional QD-Mini LED models.

TCL does not sell any OLED TV models in its current lineup. For OLED recommendations from other brands, check out our guide to the best OLED TVs.

When it comes to screen sizes, TCL offers displays ranging from 32 to a whopping 115 inches. For size-specific recommendations, check out our TV buying guides focused on different screen sizes:

• Best 100-inch TVs
• Best 85-inch TVs
• Best 75-inch TVs
• Best 65-inch TVs
• Best 55-inch TVs
• Best 50-inch TVs
• Best 43-inch TVs

What smart TV platform does TCL use?

TCL primarily uses the Google TV operating system on its flagship smart TV models, including the QM6K, QM7K, QM8K, QM9K, and X11L. However, some of the brand's entry-level offerings use the Fire TV and Roku TV interface. Likewise, some of these budget-friendly sets, such as the S5 Series, are available in multiple editions, allowing buyers to choose the interface they prefer.

Do TCL TVs have good sound quality?

Generally speaking, most TVs, including TCL models, offer mediocre sound quality. To keep panels slim and costs down, manufacturers use small speaker drivers that lack depth and bass. However, some of TCL's high-end models, such as the QM7K, QM8K, QM9K, and X11L, use more advanced speaker arrays developed in partnership with Bang & Olufsen. These models sound better than cheaper options, but they still can't match the performance of a typical soundbar or dedicated set of speakers.

For optimal audio quality, we recommend using a separate soundbar or surround sound system. Check out our audio buying guides for top recommendations:

• Best soundbars
• Best budget soundbars
• Best Dolby Atmos soundbars
• Best soundbars with subwoofers
• Best Bose soundbars
• Best Sonos soundbars
• Best surround sound systems

There's a lot of down time between the actual motion of travel, and it goes by a lot slower if I'm not comfortable in my outfit. The best travel pants for women need to be soft, stretchy, and flexible so you can sit for hours in whatever tangled-leg position feels right. That said, you should avoid anything too cozy in case you're stuck in an idle plane with a broken AC (yes, it happened to me once, and I shall never forget it).

To find breezy options you can wear right out of a packed suitcase, we tested 20 pairs to see which resist wrinkles and add virtually no weight on a luggage scale. The pairs below are what we actually wear in order to nail the perfectly laid-back-yet-chic airport outfit. I'm styling them with some strappy sandals and a silk tank this summer, but they pair just as easily with comfy sneakers and a protective hat.

Check out our guides to the best travel jackets and travel purses to pack ahead of your trip.

Best overall travel pants for women: M.M. LaFleur Colby Travel Pant

We elected the Colby Travel Pants as our best overall pick because they're low maintenance, effortlessly chic, and will work hard while you're on the road. With their stretchy waistband and deep swishy pockets, it hardly feels like I'm wearing suit pants. The lightweight fabric drapes crisply, yet remains soft and breathable on the skin after multiple washes.

These will hardly wrinkle, even after being stuffed unceremoniously to the bottom of a travel tote. When you're on a trip with a packed itinerary that leaves you no time to iron, these are the pants to wear. M.M. LaFleur is one of our favorite sources for splurge-worthy office staples, and the Colby Travel Pants are precisely why. They're made with a remarkably silky and light polyester blend that holds its shape and doesn't crease while crammed in a carry-on.

We know: "polyester" and "luxury workwear" may not sound like they go together. But trust me, these are worth it. After all, not all polyester is created equal — the scratchy, suffocating polyester you'll find at the mall is another thing entirely compared to M.M. LaFleur's 'Origami Tech,' which is soft, smooth, and machine washable. Nothing else I've touched — not even the crepe Aritzia Effortless Pant — can approach the Origami Tech's silk-like texture.

They're so flexible I can sit in them for hours in bizarre cross-legged positions. The sleek, tapered legs allows for smooth movement while I navigated a busy train platform. On my 5-foot-9 frame they're cropped, which I like because it means they won't drag on the floor as I move through crowded public transit stations. They fit full-length on our 5-foot-2 executive editor Sally Kaplan.

The secretly stretchy waistband is bloat-friendly. It's tucked in the rear while the front features a pintuck detail, making them unmistakably polished. I was especially grateful for this feature when I was seated for hours on a train and had to go straight to dinner after. — Gabrielle Chase, senior associate style editor, Insider Reviews

A clever denim dupe: Rag & Bone Miramar Wide-Leg Pants

"I get compliments on my 'sweans' wherever I go," writes senior associate style editor Gabrielle Chase. They're some of the best not-so-secret style solutions we've witnessed from the past few years. Real jeans are often too bulky and stiff for travel, but these faux denim terry cotton pants are a worthy replacement. They roll up neatly and look cool with a simple tee and sneakers.

The "denim" looks surprisingly real. When I wore the jogger version of these pants, I fooled my husband who believed I was wearing traditional denim — until I had him feel the soft sweatpant fabric and elastic waistband. "I too was amazed at how real they looked — right down to the faux fly and lightly distressed denim details," adds Gabrielle.

They flatter a variety of body shapes. "I'm 5-foot-9 and when pulled all the way up around my waist, the inseam reaches a bit past my ankles in flats, so I'd definitely recommend these jeans for tall women. Thankfully, because the waistband is so stretchy, I have the option to sling them low and let the hems puddle around my ankles," writes Gabrielle.

"I love the look of a wide-leg jean but have also sworn off hard pants, so these are my dream come true!" writes Sally Kaplan, executive editor. "I'm short and curvy, so I knew these would be a little long on me, but I don't even care. I just safety pin them at the back of the hem to keep them from catching under my heels, and no one is the wiser. Since my first pair arrived, I've already ordered a second."

The fabric is lightweight yet substantial. "The stretchy terry cloth sweatpant air dries quickly, as it's more breathable than fleece sweats," Gabrielle notes. I found the pants were even wearable in New Jersey's July heat. They accompanied me on a six-hour road trip, keeping me snug during the long drive but looking pulled together when we stopped for a mid-way lunch.

Read more in our full Rag & Bone Sweatpant Jeans review.

Best for hot weather: AE Stretch Low-Rise Linen-Blend Pull-On Pant

Our favorite linen pants for summer travel are perfect for stuffy cars and hot weather destinations. This affordable pair comes with an adjustable elastic waistband, with side pockets and back pockets for convenience. Plus, they're made with a stretchy, machine- washable fabric blend that gives off a coastal-chic elegance.

The touch of elastic helps them hold their shape better than pure linen. We've all been there: You do one final fit check in the mirror, step into your car, and those linen pants that looked so polished mere seconds ago are already wrinkled. Because linen is made from stiff flax fibers with virtually no elasticity, it doesn't snap back into shape easily. One way around this is to blend linen with other fabrics, which is what American Eagle cleverly did with these Stretch Low-Rise Linen-Blend Pull-On Pants.

The addition of cotton, rayon, and elastane not only makes the pants feel super soft but also helps keep them relatively wrinkle-free. That makes them an ideal piece to pack in your suitcase. And because they feature a touch of stretch and a drawstring waistband, they're comfy enough to wear even for long-haul flights — but you also won't have to worry about looking sloppy when you arrive at your final destination.

As a general rule, I avoid low-rise pants like the plague (hey, I'm a millennial and I barely survived the early 2000s unscathed). However, I have to say these pants pleasantly surprised me. They only come in one inseam length, but still offer a reasonable amount of coverage. Thanks to the adjustable waistband, I never had any sagging or slipping. — Rebecca Strong, style contributor, Insider Reviews

A tapered ankle-length fit: Cozy Earth Always Cropped Pant

Cozy Earth makes my all-time favorite pajamas, so I was excited to try the brand's daywear. I tested the Always Cropped Pant and found it aptly monikered, thanks to its versatility.

They're easy to dress up or down. I wore these elastic-waist pants with sandals and a t-shirt for a day of running errands. The nylon-spandex blend fabric was about as comfy as yoga pants, but looked more put-together. In the evening, I switched into heels and a blouse for a dinner date. I was impressed with how polished the pants looked, especially since they were forgiving after a pasta dinner. The faux fly helps give a more flattering look, too.

They're not too hot in the summer. Thanks to the cropped silhouette and lightweight, stretchy fabric, these pants kept me plenty cool in 80-degree weather.

They don't wrinkle despite hours of wear. I love that I could wear these for long travel days since they're comfortable, stretchy and don't wrinkle. They're equally great for packing, though. They fold up nicely and are compact.

Though the website says these run true to size, I found they run a touch small, though it wasn't too bothersome for me. I'm 5-foot-7 and they hit me right above the ankle — shorter people might find they fit more like long pants.

Best high-waisted: Athleta Endless High Rise Pant

Athleta's Endless High Rise Pants earned high marks when I tested the most comfortable work pants, but the buttery-soft semi-fitted bottoms are also well suited for travel. For a cozy matching ensemble to wear on your journey, Athleta also make some of the best sweatsuits I've tested.

They're the most versatile pants I own. Comfortable as loungewear, elegant enough for the office, and stretchy and lightweight for workouts, these pants can truly do it all. I've worn them with sneakers and a t-shirt for a light hike but also paired them with heels and a sweater for an evening out. The comfy, wide elastic waistband is always flattering, and the faux zipper makes these pants look dressier than they feel.

They barely wrinkle in a suitcase. I've packed these bottoms for multiple trips and have appreciated not needing to whip out the hotel ironing board when I pull these from my suitcase. The recycled polyester-Spandex fabric stretches and naturally releases wrinkles.

There are so many size and color options. Right now, the Endless High Rise Pants are available in seven colors, but Athleta is constantly adding new hues into the mix. There's also a cargo version, which has two functional cargo pockets along with the same zip pockets as the OG version. Both the cargo and the regular come in petite, regular, and tall lengths.

Best for work trips: Aritzia The Effortless Pant

I've long been on the hunt for the perfect pair of loose trousers, and I've finally found them. Aritzia's wrinkle-proof Effortless Pants check all boxes: comfort, style, versatility, and sophistication.

When you compare the whole collection, we like the Crepette and (Re)ssential light versions best. They both drape nicely, are appropriate for year-round wear, and don't wrinkle much. The CruiseLinen feels nice in the heat, but required a good ironing after being packed away.

The Japanese crepe fabric is wrinkle-proof. The Essential Pants come in a variety of fabric options, but the Japanese crepe is ideal for travel thanks to its subtle texture, breezy drape, and ability to resist wrinkles. I sat in these pants for over eight hours, and they looked just as polished at the end of the day as they did the beginning.

Despite not having a super stretchy fabric, they're unbelievably comfortable. As far as pants without elastic waistbands and super stretchy fabrics go, these are the most comfortable ones I've ever had on my body. The lightweight fabric with a wide-leg silhouette gently drapes like a luxe but not flimsy pair of pajamas. The hook-and-bar closure waistband fits snugly without digging in. I could easily wear these on a long flight without issue.

They come in various lengths and a curve fit. Initially, I sampled the non-curve silhouette and didn't find it flattering on my pear-shaped figure. I then tested the curve version, which has an additional 2 inches in the low hip and 1.5 inches in the thigh, and those fit me perfectly. The only downside to the curve version is that there are fewer colors and only one length option available (Aritzia, please make more!). The original version comes in 22 colors and has four length options, with the Regular inseam just hitting the floor on my 5-foot-7 frame.

Read more in our full Aritzia Effortless Pant review.

Budget-friendly and super stretchy: HalaraFlex Wide Leg Micro Waffle Work Pants

These affordable wide-leg slip-ons are like pajama pants you can wear to work, thanks to their plicated tailoring. They'd be perfect for long plane rides since they're cozy enough to snooze in.

After hours of wear, they didn't wrinkle at all. Crafted from Lycra, these Halara pants have a fine waffle knit that's designed to resist wrinkles. I wore these all day both sitting and standing and they didn't get a single wrinkle. They packed nicely, and once unfolded they were still crease-free.

The fabric is stretchy and breathable. According to the brand, the material absorbs sweat and you can even work out in it. There are functional side pockets, too. Unfortunately, there's only regular and long inseams available — I'm 5-foot-7 and the regular length grazed the floor when I go barefoot.

You can comfortably fly in these pants. Thanks to the stretchy fabric and elastic waistband, these pants are definitely comfortable enough to be worn on long plane rides. Then, you can rewear them as part of a casual or dressy outfit during your trip, saving you precious luggage space.

Best for long flights: Cozy Earth Brushed Bamboo Joggers

The value of these comfy travel jogger pants is that they also come as a matching set. Together they're priced competitively against popular sweatsuits we've tested. However, the Brushed Bamboo Joggers stand in their own right as some of the softest lounge pants to wear on long journeys.

For long-haul journeys and redeye flights, I prioritize comfort and softness above all else. But when I don't want to arrive looking totally disheveled after hours crammed into tight quarters or a sleepless night, I reach for this two-piece Cozy Earth set. They're extremely soft and have substantial weight to them.

Made from a buttery-soft blend of brushed bamboo, acrylic, and Spandex, it's ultra comfortable to wear for long periods of time. I've yet to see a single crease since I started wearing it several months ago. I own the navy color, though it also comes in black, charcoal, or olive. The pullover top and slim-fitting joggers look far nicer than standard sweatpants, and I feel like I'm wearing pajamas without looking the part. — Emily Hochberg, style contributor, Insider Reviews

Best joggers: Beyond Yoga Spacedye Commuter Jogger

Meet the perfect pants for plane travel. The best part of these ultra-comfy Beyond Yoga joggers is that they can be repurposed and dressed up during your trip. They're a bit different than the Cozy Earth joggers in that they're more like a swishy nylon than a soft brushed bamboo. This makes them better for hikes and adventures long after you've deplaned.

The comfy fabric is perfectly warm, but not overly insulating. Plane cabins can get chilly, so I always travel in a pair of comfy pants that'll also keep me warm. That said, you don't want to go overboard on the warmth in case you're stuck idling on the tarmac and the plane's AC is broken (yes, this has happened to me, and it was brutal). These buttery soft joggers with four-way stretch are the perfect mid-weight.

They're durable enough for outdoor activities. The pants are made from a moisture-wicking fabric, so feel free to work out in them. They also offer UV protection for your outdoor adventures.

They can be dressed up, too. Versatile pieces allow you to travel lighter. I paired these slim-fit joggers with a sweater and a pair of heeled boots and wore them out to dinner. They looked plenty cute, and I appreciated the elastic waistband after finishing my meal.

Sharp yet buttery-soft: Carbon28 Split Bootcut Legging

Black flare leggings are some of the best pants for travel because they're both flexible and sporty-chic. This svelte pair by Carbon38 ups the style factor with a split flared bootcut hem.

How they compare: Against Aritzia's wide-leg Effortless Pants or Halara stretchy work pants, they accomplish a different look entirely: a sleek, leg-lengthening fit that contrasts nicely with an oversized tee or wide-shoulder blazer.

They're compact for packing. Dressy leggings are great for packing since you can fold them down a lot and they don't take up much space in a suitcase.

They transition from day to night. I wore these during the daytime with sneakers and an oversized sweater. For dinner and drinks, I threw on a blazer, changed into pumps, and swiped on a red lip. The pants looked polished in both scenarios.

The high waist is flattering and comfortable. I love the high-waisted cut on these pants, which was tummy-smoothing and figure-flattering. It also helps elongate the look of your legs. The light support was comfortable but not compressing, which is better for travel and long hours spent sitting.

The fabric is moisture-wicking. Even though they look elegant enough to wear out, I love that these versatile leggings still have everything you'd want in workout pants. I recently wore them to a workout class and they didn't budge through squats and kicks. My one caution is for pet owners: These attracted a lot of fur from my cat. Now I know to use a small lint roller before I wear these out.

How we tested to find the best travel pants

To find the best travel pants for women, our team tested 20 pairs from popular brands like Athleta, Lululemon, Everlane, and Aritzia. We focused on the features that you can feel when you're traveling. Beyond how I want to look in vacation photos, the best travel pants have to perform over long days in transit.

Each pair was evaluated based on the following:

• All-day comfort: We wore each pair for at least six hours, often while sitting for extended periods to mimic long flights or road trips. We also washed and dried each pair according to the brand's instructions to make sure they held their shape, softness, and overall quality after repeated wear.
• Wrinkle resistance: A non-negotiable with travel pants is that they're actually wrinkle-proof, because realistically, there won't be a garment steamer in every hotel room. We packed each pair in a suitcase, then unpacked and wore them to see how well they resisted creasing.
• Packability: We considered how easily the pants folded or rolled, and how much space they took up in a carry-on. Airy pairs made from crepe or nylon blends helped us lighten our luggage weights at the airport.
• Versatility: I styled each pair for multiple scenarios — from casual travel days to more polished outfits for dinners or business trips. The Colby Travel Pants were the favorites because they even out an off-duty look, but later when you throw on a blazer, they look instantly dapper.
• Breathability and temperature control: We paid attention to how each fabric performed in warm weather and whether it felt too heavy or restrictive. Airplane cabins can get stuffy or drafty, so the best travel pants for women have to wick moisture and not cling to sweat.
• Fit and sizing: I noted how each pair fit on different body types, including feedback from other editors on our team. The best travel pants for tall and petite sizes is Aritzia's Effortless Pants for their multiple inseam options. Overall, the most important aspect for getting the best fit is a stretchy waistband, which allowed us to pull up pants up or sling them low around our hips.

Learn more about how the Reviews team tests clothing at BI.

Other travel pants we tested

Alo Yoga Muse Sweatpant: These are definitely a contender among the best joggers, according to travel writer Maria Yagoda. However, the slouchiness makes them feel a bit too heavy and casual for anything else besides long flights. We must also strongly urge Alo to make pants in a more inclusive range for petite, plus, and tall sizes.

The Everlane Dream Pant: These were our former best overall pick until they were phased out by the brand. The pintucked double-knit fabric has a flat finish, so they looked sharp but still felt comfortable enough to nap in. Everlane, if you're listening: please bring back The Dream Pant.

Lululemon Dance Studio Relaxed-Fit Mid-Rise Cargo Pant: These went viral on TikTok for restocking after a year of us patiently waiting (and yet again, they're largely sold out). The buttery soft, relaxed-fit pants are a more tailored answer to athleisure. It's helpful they have plenty of pockets for storing loose odds and ends while on the go.

What to look for in the best travel pants for women

Your favorite lounge pants aren't necessarily good for travel, as comfortable as they may be. The best travel pants for women come with practical features that make them easy to wear, pack, and rewear throughout a trip:

Wrinkle-resistant fabric: This obviously comes first so you don't have to even think about ironing. Look for materials like polyester blends, nylon, or crepe that naturally resist wrinkles. Ideally you can pull your pants out of a suitcase and wear them immediately on multiple occasions.

Functional pockets: Unfortunately in women's fashion, we're trained to think pockets are a fun bonus. The truth is, pockets are essential for travel. Look for styles with deep or zippered pockets that can hold your phone, wallet, or ID securely.

Stretchy waistbands: When you're bloating or digesting, there's nothing worse than a tight button pressing on your abdomen. Look for high elastane content, four-way stretch fabrics so you're not restricted while seated on a long flight.

Lightweight and packable: Packing cubes can only save you so much luggage space. Your travel pants should tuck and fold easily, and be flexible enough to fit in tight corners.

Low maintenance: Pants that can be spot-cleaned, sink-washed, or air-dried quickly are especially useful for longer trips when you won't have access to a washing machine. If you're prone to mess and stains like me, try carrying these Downy wrinkle-release sprays and Tide To-Go pens.

FAQs on the best travel pants for women

What are the best travel pants for women?

Our favorite pair is the Colby Travel Pants, which are comfortable, wrinkle-resistant, and have a business casual flair that we also dressed down for long train rides. They're made with a lightweight stretch fabric that comes with functional pockets. It speaks volumes that they fit well on two style editors of vastly different heights.

What pants are best for long flights?

If you're about to board a plane for more than 3 hours, prioritize wearing soft, stretchy pants that are breathable enough for unpredictable temperatures. We suggest relaxed-fit joggers and wide-leg pants with a stretchy waistband.

Are travel pants supposed to be wrinkle-free?

Ideally yes, though not every pair has to be 100% wrinkle-proof. It's a win as long as they resist deep creases and quickly smooth out when worn.

What fabric is best for travel pants?

Nylon, polyester, elastane blends, and lightweight crepe fabrics are ideal. These materials are typically the most wrinkle-resistant and breathable. Avoid heavy fabrics that take too long to dry, like ponte, fleece, or thick cotton.

Can you wear travel pants in warm weather?

Yes, and several of us who run cold do so regularly. Plane cabins can turn frigid in an instant. It's best to be equipped with loose travel pants that can protect you from a chill, yet be able to wick sweat once you step out in the heat.

How many pairs of travel pants should I pack?

If you're headed somewhere warm, you may be able to get away with wearing a single pair you alternate with other resortwear. For most trips, two to three pairs of travel pants will suffice.

After a long winter spent indoors, I'm more than ready to start enjoying my outdoor spaces and patio furniture again. My tiny covered patio — which I somewhat optimistically refer to as my "sunroom" — becomes my home office in the spring, featuring scenic views of my garden and my cat hunting flies. This season, I knew it needed an upgrade. My old, tired wicker chairs were starting to fall apart, and my beloved sunroom was succumbing to pre-garden-season clutter. My favorite space was falling into disrepair, and fast.

Seemingly reading my mind, Canada-based furniture brand Cozey released the outdoor collection of my dreams: the Shinuk Sofa, a modular design with waterproof storage built into every seat, ottoman, and table. Cozey made a name for itself with modular sofas and has been doubling down on expanding into new categories. Given my need for new furniture and extra storage, I knew I had to try it out. After living with it — and subjecting it to the elements — for a month, I can confidently say that it's completely transformed my outdoor space.

It's entirely modular, so you can pick a design that fits your space.

The Shinuk Modular Outdoor Collection has plenty of options for any space, from single seats and tables to a massive sectional with seating for eight. You can choose your optimal configuration, frame and cushion colors, arm style, and add-ons like an ottoman, end table, or inline table. The wicker frame is available armless, with a chunky armrest, or with a high-angled arm with a side pillow. I opted for a four-piece sectional with high-angled arms, an ottoman, and an inline table in tan wicker and sage green cushions.

The interior storage is built into the bottom of each module, protected by a zippered waterproof lining and topped with a flat piece of wicker. Then, the cushions are connected to the wicker with a strip of velcro. I was wary about the velcro — I thought it would cause the cushions to shift around — but I've experienced no sliding during testing.

It ships in a ton of boxes, and setup takes a while.

To my surprise, Cozey sofas ship in a lot of boxes. On the day of delivery, I opened my front door to be greeted by a veritable sea of cardboard. My sofa arrived in about eleven separate, bulky boxes. Shipping is free, but the delivery window can vary from a few days to a month, and there's no option for in-home set up.

The assembly process was arduous, to say the least. I roped my partner into helping me with setup, and together, it took about three hours to get this couch from boxes to fully assembled. Thankfully, there were no tools required — it comes together with hand screws — and all pieces (and boxes) were clearly labeled. After unboxing, I noticed a few broken pieces of wicker on the bottom, but it had no impact on the structural integrity of the couch.

Written instructions were included, though I didn't find them until about halfway through assembly. I would've appreciated a note on the box that says "start here", which is something I've seen with similar DIY assembly furniture like Thuma bed frames, but the clear QR code on the outside of every cardboard box takes you to a step-by-step instructional YouTube video. Most of the setup was fairly simple, just time-consuming, though I had a heck of a time trying to shove the cushions into their corresponding covers.

The sofa connects with small, plastic pieces that fit on the legs of each module. This makes it easy to reconfigure each piece, but I've noticed that pieces can shift and become detached relatively easily. Thankfully, the modules aren't heavy or particularly awkward to reconfigure. I like that you can change up the configuration — I'm a renter, so it's nice to know this couch can go with me no matter where I move next.

The firm cushions are incredibly comfy and supportive.

Once I had finished assembly and taken my well-earned flop on the couch, I was immediately impressed with how comfortable it was. To be clear, it definitely feels like an outdoor couch — don't expect the same level of comfort as the sofa in your living room — but it's leagues more comfortable than my previous outdoor furniture. The cushions are filled with a layer of foam surrounded by a fiber filling. It's noticeably firm when you first sit down, but once you've relaxed for a while, it conforms to your body and supports every curve. I've started working from and taking Zoom meetings sitting on my Shinuk sofa, and I've never once felt uncomfortable or unsupported.

It looks as good as new after an intense Midwestern spring.

For testing, I placed the ottoman outside to face the elements while the rest of the couch stayed safe and dry in my sunroom. I wanted to compare the indoor and outdoor pieces to see the amount of color fading or damage associated with being exposed to the elements. Mother Earth threw everything she had at this poor ottoman. After a month of being left outside, it had faced a tornado-siren worthy thunderstorm, unseasonal freezes and snow showers, a week of constant torrential rain, and bright, sunny spring days.

I was expecting a dramatic before-and-after difference between the ottoman and the pieces left in my sunroom, but to my pleasant surprise, the weeks of volatile Midwestern weather had no effect on the look or durability of the wicker body or the cushions. Save for a single spot of bird droppings that swiped away with ease, the ottoman looked identical to the rest of the couch. Water beads on the surface before sliding right off, though I noticed absorption during heavier rain. I'd anticipate that this couch could survive multiple seasons of bad weather with very minimal color fading or damage, especially if you opt for the protective covers.

The storage is actually waterproof and roomy, though it's not large enough to store the cushions in the off-season.

The aspect I was most excited about — the storage — lived up to my expectations too. Each module has an empty compartment lined with a waterproof cover, which is then topped by a flat wicker piece. I use this to store my outdoor throw blankets and gardening supplies. The inline table is especially roomy, and I could fit about six blankets (I'm a throw blanket lover, what can I say) in its interior. This space is handy for storing outdoor games and protective covers, too, though they're a bit too small to hold the actual cushions if you had been hoping to store them during the offseason or ahead of bad weather.

The storage is actually waterproof, too. I placed a piece of paper inside the waterproof interior, then absolutely drenched the entire module with my hose. While there was moisture on the waterproof cover itself, the interior compartment was completely dry, and my paper revealed no water droplets.

There are 30-day returns — but there's a catch.

Cozey offers a 30-day return policy, but you'll have to hang on to the boxes if you want to return them — so get ready to hold on to some cardboard. If you don't keep the boxes, your return may be declined or subject to a 15% return fee, a high cost given the price of a sofa. It's covered by a five-year limited warranty, which applies only to manufacturing defects. If you claim your warranty, Cozey will only send you a replacement for the defective part.

What are your alternatives?

If you're on the hunt for an outdoor sofa but the Shinuk isn't your vibe, we've tested and reviewed plenty of other options, too, but we've yet to find another furniture brand that offers storage in the cushions.

Polywood gets our stamp of approval for their durable HDPE frames that mimic the look of wood with a series of collections that suit all design styles, from traditional to modern. Read our Polywood review for more details.

We also like Outer's easy modular outdoor seating that comes in six different frame materials, including wicker, wood, and metal, and up to seven seats. The differentiating factor is the built-in covers to protect cushions when not in use. Read our Outer review for more details.

For a cheaper option, we were pleasantly surprised by the Lausaint Home Outdoor Sectional, a budget-friendly hidden gem on Amazon. You can get a six-piece sectional for just over $550. Read our Lausaint Home Outdoor Sectional review for more information.

For more recommendations, check out our guide to the best places to buy outdoor patio furniture.

The bottom line

The Cozey Shinuk Modular Outdoor Sofa is attractive and comfortable with handy built-in storage. Available in multiple configurations, it's a versatile piece of furniture that can be arranged to fit any space, whether you're furnishing a huge deck or a small balcony. It was a pain to put together, but trust me: It's worth it.

• Spirit Airlines could liquidate as early as this week, reports say.
• It's in its second bankruptcy since 2024, and rising fuel costs is making recovery harder.
• Spirit's closure would mark the end of a 62-year history that started as a trucking company.

Spirit Airlines' iconic yellow paint job could soon fade from the skies.

CNBC reported on Wednesday that the ultra-low-cost carrier, which has struggled to return to profitability post-pandemic amid changing traveler habits and rising costs, could liquidate as early as this week.

The airline had recently shown signs of progress in its Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings — its second since 2024 — but rising fuel costs tied to Middle East conflict are now making that recovery even harder.

A Spirit spokesperson told Business Insider that it doesn't "comment on market rumors and speculation."

It's unclear what would happen if Spirit were to abruptly shutter. Beyond the immediate impact on customers, the airline's operations would likely cease and its fleet would be grounded.

Any potential outcome would depend on whether a buyer emerges for its assets. JetBlue Airways, which attempted to acquire Spirit for $3.8 billion in 2024 before the deal was blocked by regulators, could revisit a bid.

Other carriers eyeing Spirit's relatively young aircraft and sizeable East Coast network could also see value, though no formal interest has been announced.

If Spirit were to disappear — the nail in its coffin likely being the oil crisis and rising demand for premium travel it can't match — it would close the book on a 62-year history.

Spirit started as Clippert Trucking Company in 1964.

In 1974, the company was refounded as Ground Air Transport Inc. by Michigan-native Ned Homfeld.

Homfeld eventually founded the first passenger version of Spirit in 1980: Detroit-based Charter One Airlines. The charter tour company officially launched operations in 1983 using turboprop aircraft.

It focused on gambling trips, offering routes to Atlantic City, New Jersey, from Chicago, Detroit, Boston, and Providence, Rhode Island.

As gambling soon became popular in other states, Charter One began ferrying northerners to warmer destinations, including Florida, the Bahamas, Las Vegas, and San Juan.

Scheduled air service officially launched in 1990.

A decade after its founding, Charter One launched scheduled air service from Boston, Detroit, and Providence to Atlantic City, marking the start of the company's commercial operations.

Charter One leased two Convair 580 twin-engine turboprops for the service. It would operate the planes for only a couple of years before rebranding to Spirit Airlines.

Charter One became Spirit Airlines on May 29, 1992.

Spirit rebranded and added four DC-9 jets to its fleet. The company was able to secure the planes at a low price after the demise of low-cost competitor Midway Airlines brought down used-aircraft prices.

In June, the company launched its first flight from Detroit to Atlantic City, which operated twice daily. The airline's code is NK for "Ned's Kids."

Spirit's early fleet also included McDonnell Douglas MD-80 aircraft. According to Plane Spotters, 44 DC-9 and MD80 planes were delivered through the 1990s and early 2000s, with the last MD80 leaving the company in July 2010.

Spirit was small but gained early momentum with its staple cheap fares.

Spirit flew more than a quarter-million passengers in 1993 and generated $21 million in revenue. The company's background as a tour operator helped it fill planes.

The carrier won over customers with cheap fares, powered by its low-cost business model in which everything beyond an unassigned seat — even water — cost extra. This secured lucrative ancillary revenue.

Legacy airlines with higher operational costs were often forced to slash fares to stay competitive when Spirit entered the market. This exacerbated the financial strains of the 1990s.

Spirit thrived as legacy airlines struggled during the 1990s recession.

The 1990-1991 US recession opened the door for startups to acquire cheap planes and nonunion staff who had been employed by collapsed Pan Am, Trans World Airways, Eastern Air Lines, and Midway.

From 1993 to 1999, Spirit expanded its route network, offering flights to Philadelphia, Orlando, St. Petersburg, Myrtle Beach, Los Angeles, and New York City.

Spirit's brand was tarnished after a failed deal with Delta Air Lines.

Delta's defunct regional carrier, Comair, wanted to buy Spirit for $20 million in the mid-1990s. The deal was part of Spirit's attempt to find a home in a bigger organization to help it expand amid growing competition.

The deal never materialized. Comair pulled out after a budget carrier, ValuJet, crashed into the Everglades in 1996, which created a stigma about the safety of low-cost airlines.

To address customer concerns, Spirit sent thousands of postcards to reassure customers about the safety of its planes.

It also launched a "Catch the Spirit" media campaign that included TV, radio, and billboard ads to sell Spirit's perfect safety record and involved adding a new logo to its aircraft.

It took advantage of Northwest's pilot strike.

Spirit recorded a loss in 1996, mostly due to a 25% rise in fuel prices, consumer hesitation to fly low-cost carriers, and some legacy carriers matching Spirit's fares and pushing it out of key markets.

However, Spirit's planes began filling again in 1997. In June of that year, Spirit took over defunct carrier Sun Jet's routes from New Jersey to Florida. It also acquired more planes to take advantage of Northwest's 1998 pilot strike that grounded the rival for weeks.

That year, Spirit reported revenue of $121 million, had 20 aircraft in its fleet, posted the industry's highest load factor at 76.4%, and carried 1.4 million passengers, an increase of 80% from 1997.

Spirit moved its headquarters to Florida in 1999.

The airline had been courted by several other cities, including Detroit and Atlantic City, before making its move from Eastpointe, Michigan to Miramar, Florida.

Miramar made sense because it was in the Fort Lauderdale area where Spirit's tour company was already based, and the airline had been serving Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport since 1993.

It still has a stronghold in the city, though it has trimmed capacity in recent years to optimize its network and better manage costs.

Spirit began growing its Airbus A320 fleet in 2002.

It's still the only aircraft family in its fleet today, and it's relatively young at an average of eight years. The planes are no-frills with only economy seats and a few rows of premium loungers.

Spirit continued to expand throughout the 2000s. It added San Juan, Puerto Rico in 2001. Boston, Grand Cayman, and San Francisco were added in 2006.

The airline has rebranded its premium seats over the years.

In 2007, the airline rebranded its "first class" as the Big Front Seat, which passengers can secure for an extra fee.

Spirit has since further revamped its most expensive seats, adding legroom, wider seating, and bundled perks to lure more premium flyers.

It's part of a wide industry focus on premium revenue as flyers remain willing to pay up for comfort.

The last US pilot strike was by Spirit pilots in 2010.

The strike occurred amid poor wages and benefits, leading to thousands of flight disruptions.

At the time, Spirit crews were among the lowest-paid pilots in the US despite flying the same planes as their higher-paid counterparts at other airlines.

Spirit was the first airline to charge for carry-on bags.

The move reduced its operating costs because the resulting fewer overall bags lowered the aircraft's fuel consumption. It also sped up the boarding process and freed up overhead bin space.

The à la carte model became its bread and butter.

In 2011, the carrier began charging for boarding passes printed at the airport ticket counter and reduced its maximum checked baggage weight from 50 to 40 pounds.

Spirit's no-frills strategy has been controversial throughout its history.

In 2008, Spirit was the number one airline for customer complaints. It still managed to fly five million passengers and achieve a net profit during the recession, making it one of the few carriers to do so.

In 2011, the Department of Transportation fined the airline $50,000 for what it described as deceptive advertising, claiming it did not disclose hidden fees, like baggage.

In 2014, Spirit was the top airline pick for growth among investors, and in 2016, Spirit was the first US carrier to add the A320neo to its fleet.

By 2019, Spirit was consistently profitable and popular.

It had become a budget leader and consistently turned a profit as people sought cheap vacations and didn't mind a bare-bones experience.

By 2019, the airline was operating 600 daily flights to 72 destinations across the US, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

The pandemic changed everything.

Spirit was hit hard during the coronavirus pandemic.

Spirit recorded a 2020 net loss of $428 million. Nevertheless, Spirit expanded operations with new city pairs and airports in 2021.

It ended the year with what it described as a "better than expected" operating revenue, despite the mix of poorly timed weather, system outages, and staff shortages that left thousands of customers stranded.

The customer outrage led to a warning from regulators. Still, Spirit continued to improve in 2022, reporting strong ancillary revenue in the first quarter. Things appeared to be moving back toward how they were in 2019.

Changing traveler habits derailed everything.

Airlines have been doubling down on premium revenue as flyers remain willing to pay extra for better comfort across all cabins. This prompted Spirit to rethink its all-economy strategy.

It started bundling its fares and offering premium seating to lure more customers, but its "first class" seat still pales in comparison to the amenity-stuffed loungers on rivals like Delta and United.

In its latest update, it said it would continue to focus on high-demand routes, reduce its debt, and have just 80 aircraft by late 2026 — down from over 200 at its peak.

• Anthropic introduced identity verification for "a few use cases," requiring some Claude users to upload government IDs.
• Persona Identities will manage and secure the ID data for the Claude users prompted to verify their identity.
• An Anthropic spokesperson wrote that ID verification will be used when it sees "potentially fraudulent or abusive behavior."

Claude may soon ask to see your ID.

Anthropic recently added "identity verification" to its safeguards, requiring some users to provide a passport, driver's license, or government ID, along with a live selfie. The company is rolling it out for "a few use cases," according to its Help Center.

Anthropic says it's the "data controller," setting the rules for where ID data is used and how long it is kept. But Persona Identities, an ID verification startup, will collect and store the user information.

Persona is contractually obligated to employ user data "only to provide and support verification and to improve their ability to prevent fraud," Anthropic said.

So why is Anthropic asking some Claude users to prove who they are?

"This applies to a small number of cases where we see activity that indicates potentially fraudulent or abusive behavior, which violates our usage policy," an Anthropic spokesperson wrote to Business Insider.

If Anthropic deems that the activity violates its usage policy, the Claude user's account could be banned.

Anthropic's help page lists the following potential reasons for why an account might be banned after completing ID verification:

• Repeated violations of our Usage Policy
• Account creation from an unsupported location
• Terms of Service violations
• Under-18 usage

Anthropic also offers an appeals form that can be filled out if a user feels their account has been wrongfully banned.

Claude users bristle at the idea of ID checks

Claude users on X have already started noticing the requests for an ID. One user posted a screenshot of the request in Claude, which asked for a "quick identity check." It wrote that the request would only take two minutes and required an ID and mobile camera access.

Another screenshot posted online shows what it looks like once the process is completed. "Thank you for verifying your identity," it wrote, accompanied by a celebratory graphic.

The backlash on X was swift. "Anthropic making unexplainable decisions," one user wrote. "We are living in 1984," another wrote.

In its Help Center, Anthropic also included a list of things it was not doing. Anthropic was not training its models on the data from ID verifications, it wrote. It also wrote that it wasn't sharing ID data with anyone beyond Anthropic and Persona, except where legally required.

"We are not collecting more than we need," Anthropic wrote. "We ask for the minimum information required to verify your identity."

• An investor group says Anthropic's new AI tool, Mythos, could destabilize the entire financial system.
• The tool identifies code vulnerabilities, and could lead to a widespread data breach, the group said.
• Consequences could range from mass identity theft to "systemic financial market disruption," it said.

Anthropic's newest AI tool could spark chaos in markets, but not for the reasons investors have become accustomed to lately.

The AI giant — which has rolled out new tools and updates this year that have upended parts of the market — recently developed a new model aimed at improving cybersecurity. But the model risks exploiting a key vulnerability in the financial sector, introducing risks ranging from widespread identity theft to the destabilization of the financial system, the American Securities Association said.

In a public letter to the Treasury Secretary on Thursday, the trade group flagged concerns about Claude Mythos, the "general-purpose" AI model Anthropic announced in early April.

The model—which falls under Project Glasswing, the company's broader cybersecurity initiative—is able to locate "thousands of high-severity vulnerabilities" in code across "every major operating system and web browser," the company said on its website.

If used by bad actors, the tool could be used to hack into the Securities and Exchange Commission's Consolidated Audit Trail, a centralized database that contains investors' private information, the ASA speculated.

The group's letter comes about a week after reports said that Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell convened major US bank CEOs for an urgent meeting to flag the cyber risks posed by Mythos.

"The subject matter of this meeting confirms what ASA has warned about for years: the US Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) Consolidated Audit Trail (CAT) is a significant cybersecurity vulnerability waiting to be exploited. This is no longer a hypothetical. The threat is here, it is identified, and it has a name," the letter said, referring to Mythos.

The ASA has long opposed the use of the Consolidated Audit Trail, citing data privacy concerns.

The group outlined six specific risks it believes Mythos could pose to investors.

1. Mass identity theft. The personal info of retail investors could be exposed "in a single breach," the letter said.
2. Trading strategy and portfolio exposure. The breach could also expose sensitive information about investors' positions.
3. Explotation of financial market intelligence. The data could be used as an "extraordinary weapon" by foreign countries, like China or Russia.
4. Exploitation of software vulnerabilities. "Mythos excels precisely at finding decades-old, dormant flaws of the kind that permeate the middleware, data feeds, browsers, and operating systems that underpin CAT's vulnerable architecture," the group said.
5. Insider threat risk. The data could be used by "malicious insiders" at companies, the letter said.
6. "Systemic financial market disruption." A bad actor gaining access to the info could trigger mass liquidations of risk assets, leading to a cascade of "failures across the financial system," the group speculated.

The group outlined actions regulators could take, including suspending CAT and getting rid of the platform's collected data.

Anthropic, which described Mythos as a work in progress on its website, also noted the potential consequences of the technology if it were used by bad actors.

"Given the rate of AI progress, it will not be long before such capabilities proliferate, potentially beyond actors who are committed to deploying them safely. The fallout—for economies, public safety, and national security—could be severe," it said on its website.

Anthropic and the US Treasury did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

• Brittany Antoinette Wilson is a 34-year-old brand manager who lives in Brooklyn.
• Brittany's dad, Nathaniel Hood, has an impressive collection of sneakers.
• Brittany says that she has learned the art of conservation from her dad.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Brittany Antoinette Wilson. It has been edited for length and clarity.

Since I was a little girl, my dad has been a collector. He started off with comics, meticulously storing them so they wouldn't suffer wear and tear. More than 30 years later, the comics he has look as good as new.

When I was 4, my dad started collecting baseball caps. He'd line them up perfectly, row after row, on the wall.

In 2005, he started collecting sneakers. My dad loved and continues to love fashion — he's obsessed with clothing and appearance. It's really important to him. He'd especially always had a thing for sneakers.

I remember him attempting to pass on his love of sneakers to me when I was a little girl. All I wanted at the time were pink, Barbie-doll shoes that lit up, but dad made sure I wore Jordans and Nikes.

He has around 500 pairs of sneakers now

His collection of sneakers originated from his love of them. He'd buy pairs he liked and just keep buying them, displaying them to make sure they didn't fall apart. He has and always will wear the sneakers he collects.

The number of sneakers grew, filling up every wall in a bedroom when he lived in the Bronx, and now filling the majority of his basement at his house in Connecticut. The bigger the space he had, the more shoes he could buy and display.

Now, he has around 500 pairs of sneakers. His collection is estimated to be worth $85,000 to $125,000.

Over the years, he's built a business from his sneaker collection. People know if they want a certain sneaker, Nathaniel is the one to go to.

He acquires sneakers in different ways

This came in handy for me growing up. Whenever my friends wanted a particular type of sneaker, I could tell them my dad could sort it out. It always made me feel special — that I had a dad with this niche skill that my friends wanted access to.

If there is a drop of new releases, my dad has so many connections that he can get the sneakers before anyone else. He knows what is coming out, always ahead of the curve.

He's waited in lines for days to be at a shoe shop (sometimes just a middle-of-nowhere store, sometimes a well-known one) when they open their doors to sell a new release. I remember on several occasions, he's traveled to different states just for a pair of sneakers. He's used my travels to get sneakers, too. Once I was in Paris, he called. I thought he was checking up on me, but no, he wanted me to get my hands on a pair of shoes he had found.

He'll scour the internet and enter lotteries to find a pair of sneakers he wants. There are pairs that can't be found elsewhere, and yet he has managed to get them.

He also just collects shoes he likes. Being fashion-conscious (something he is well-known for), Dad knows what looks good before anyone else does. He is what I like to call a taste maker — he makes you realize what looks good before you know it looks good. He'll often put shoes on (ones you think are disgusting), and you suddenly realize you want them. His fashion sense is unique, and he's known for it in the New York City streetwear community.

He taught me to take care of my things

Growing up the oldest daughter of an avid collector, I've learned lessons I might not have otherwise.

Dad taught me to take care of my things and to make them last. Every single thing he collects is kept as a memento in what feels like a museum. He preserves things meticulously so they don't break, deteriorate, or lose their value.

He also just appreciates beautiful things, in particular, fashion. I know that my love of fashion is from him, connecting me to him even though we aren't as close anymore. His sneaker collection and taste in music, food, and fashion are a reminder that my dad and I are father and daughter — that we are more alike than we realize. I'm a tastemaker because of him; I've learned the art of curation from him.

Now, I just need him to source me a pair of Nike Air Rifts that I've been requesting for the past two years.

• Andrew Left thinks an under-the-radar quantum stock is the sector's biggest winner.
• He pointed to Nvidia's partnerships with Infleqtion, a lesser-known name in the space.
• Left said the stock is undervalued based on Nvidia's ties to the company and its other partnerships.

Andrew Left is known as a short-seller, but he's turned a bullish gaze toward an under-the-radar quantum stock this week.

Quantum stocks have surged recently, with names like Rigetti Computing and D-Wave Quantum up 36% and 52%, respectively, in the last week. These companies and a few others have been at the heart of the quantum trade, but Left thinks a relative newcomer is the one to watch due to its ties to chip king, Nvidia.

In a post on X, Left's Citron Research said Infleqtion, which went public in February, is the red-hot sector's most undervalued play. The reason for his bullish thesis centers on Infleqtion's role in Nvidia's new quantum-focused AI leap, part of the chip maker's push to harness the nascent tech.

"The smallest public quantum company by market cap was selected the most by the most important AI infrastructure company on earth," Citron wrote on X. "NVIDIA ranked these companies for you. The stock market hasn't caught up yet."

Left shared a press release announcing Nvidia Ising, a group of AI models created to help accelerate the advancement of quantum computing.

The news boosted quantum stocks broadly this week, sparking several days of fresh momentum. Even so, some investors may have missed the fact that Nvidia's statement mentioned Infleqtion as one of the partners it selected for quantum projects using its Ising models.

While the development might seem subtle, Left sees it as an important reflection on the company's potential.

In his view, being named to two separate partner lists by Nvidia—Ising calibration and Ising decoding—gives it a clear advantage over other quantum computing stocks such as Rigetti, a company he previously told Business Insider he's betting against due to what he sees as an inflated valuation. Left also disclosed a bet against fellow quantum computing stock D-Wave Quantum.

"Infleqtion is the only company NVIDIA selected twice for both Calibration AND Decoding , yet trades at half the market cap of Rigetti, a company NVIDIA didn't select at all," Left added.

It's not the only reason he's bullish on Infleqtion, though. Left also highlighted the company's expanded partnerships with the US Department of Energy's National Laboratories, Sandia National Laboratories, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

"This is the most obvious mispricing in the quantum market right now," he said of Infleqtion stock.

• I took my first cruise solo on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas.
• My trip was full of surprises, from the price of the room to the best way to meet people.
• Excursions were more social than I expected, and people kept asking me where my parents were.

I'd traveled long distances solo by plane and train — so why not try cruising alone?

In April 2022, I went on my first cruise by myself. During my seven-night solo voyage on board Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, my ship sailed to Roatán, Honduras; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; and Royal Caribbean's own private island in the Bahamas.

As a longtime solo traveler and first-time cruiser, a few things surprised me about cruising alone. From booking the trip to setting sail, here's what I didn't expect.

When booking my cruise, I was surprised to find that the room rate was higher for just one person than for two.

Because most cruise ship staterooms are meant to hold at least two people, booking a room by yourself often means you still have to pay higher prices. Some cruise ships have solo cabins for just one person, but mine didn't. 

When I booked my cruise, the listed rates for my ship were per person, not per room. But when switching between one and two guests in my search, the cost per person doubled when I had just one person selected. This is known as paying a "single supplement," as it helps the cruise line make up for the revenue it would have generated from having a second person on board.

For $2,000, I got an ocean-view stateroom to myself. It would have cost about half the price per person if I had brought someone with me.

It was easier to meet people on the ship than I expected it would be as a solo traveler.

As someone who is typically shy around new people, I was surprised by how easy it was to talk to other travelers on the ship.

Couples, families, and other solo cruisers seemed open to chatting and sharing their experiences with me around the pool decks and at various eateries and common spaces. After all, we had at least one thing in common — being on this epic vacation. 

I thought I'd have a hard time navigating the ports to find my excursion groups, but since I booked through the cruise line, there were so many signs and directions that made it easy.

At each cruise port, passengers may disembark to spend their time as they wish. They might sightsee independently, take a taxi to a beach, link up with a local tour guide, or join an official cruise-line excursion.

I joined a cruise-line excursion at every port and was nervous about finding my group amid the large crowds. However, I was given clear directions on where to meet my group each time, and there were so many posted signs that it was easy. 

I figured that since I was a solo traveler, I'd experience the ports alone, but I found that many people on excursions were looking to meet new people. It made making friends easy.

I found that excursions were the easiest way to meet people on the ship. With group activities like hiking and plenty of downtime on bus rides to and from the tour locations, I spent most of my time socializing. On a guided hike in Roatán, Honduras, I met couples, families, and one other solo traveler.

But I was shocked to be mistaken for a child every time I entered or exited the ship.

"Where are your parents?" was a question I had to answer nearly every day of my cruise.

Cruise-line workers were quick to assume that I was a lost child rather than a solo cruiser each time I entered and exited the ship. This could be because I look young (in my opinion), but it also made me think that solo cruising might be less common at 26, my age at the time.

Even as a single person on the world's largest cruise ship, it can be hard to find a chair on the pool deck after noon.

Wonder of the Seas is one of the largest cruise ships in the world, so I thought that it would be pretty easy to find a single pool chair on the ship at any time.

But by midday, most of the chairs were occupied or covered with towels. While saving chairs with towels wasn't allowed on my ship, I didn't see the rule enforced, so I had to arrive early to secure a good spot. 

While I thought my first cruise was still enjoyable alone, if I were to take another one, I'd prefer to bring a buddy.

Despite the social activities and friendly cruisers who loved to chat with random strangers like me, I still found myself feeling lonely on the ship. I longed to have a conversation with someone who knew me or to share my experiences in new places with a loved one. Being surrounded by so many families and groups of friends made me wish I could be with mine.

If I cruise again, I'll definitely bring my own crew.

• Steakhouses across the country are famous for their tender cuts and mouthwatering sides.
• Golden Steer in Las Vegas and Peter Luger in New York are among the most famous steakhouses.
• We identified iconic steakhouses based on their longevity, reputation, recognition, and local history.

Steakhouses nationwide are famous for serving perfectly seared steaks, classic sides, and timeless dining experiences that have drawn loyal customers for generations.

While there's bound to be some debate about which steakhouse is the most famous in every state, we picked the most iconic steakhouse based on customer reviews, local history, longevity, and cultural significance.

From legendary institutions like Peter Luger Steakhouse in New York, which dates back to 1887, to historic Western spots like the Buckhorn Exchange in Denver, which opened in 1893, these are the most iconic and enduring steakhouses in every state.

ALABAMA: The Bright Star Restaurant in Bessemer

The Bright Star Restaurant, founded in 1907, is one of Alabama's oldest restaurants and a landmark in the historic mining town of Bessemer.

The James Beard Award-winning institution is known for its Greek-influenced steakhouse menu, especially its famous broiled snapper and tender steaks, all served in a grand, old-world dining room.

ALASKA: Club Paris in Anchorage

Club Paris was established in Anchorage in 1957, making it the city's oldest steakhouse.

Known for its old-school steakhouse atmosphere, you can't go wrong with ordering one of Club Paris' hand-cut steaks — especially the filet mignon — along with generous sides that have earned the restaurant a loyal local following.

ARIZONA: Durant's Steakhouse in Phoenix

Durant's Steakhouse opened in 1950 and remains one of Phoenix's most iconic old-school dining spots.

The classic steakhouse is known for its dim lighting, red leather booths, and signature cuts like prime rib and New York strip.

ARKANSAS: Doe's Eat Place in Little Rock

Doe's Eat Place dates back to 1941 and began as a small grocery store before evolving into a legendary Southern steakhouse.

It's famous for massive porterhouse steaks served family-style, along with hot tamales, a nod to its Delta roots that have been on the menu since the restaurant's opening.

CALIFORNIA: Musso & Frank Grill in Hollywood

Musso & Frank Grill, established in 1919, is Hollywood's oldest restaurant and a longtime hangout for writers, actors, and filmmakers.

The iconic steakhouse is known for classic martinis and perfectly cooked steaks, all served in a preserved dining room that will practically transport you back to Old Hollywood.

COLORADO: The Buckhorn Exchange in Denver

The Buckhorn Exchange, opened in 1893, is Denver's oldest restaurant and one of the most historic steakhouses in the country.

The Wild West landmark is famous for its classic game meats, including elk and bison steaks, as well as its museum-like interior filled with taxidermy and artifacts from the frontier age.

CONNECTICUT: Joseph's Steakhouse in Bridgeport

Known around town as an "old school" local gem, Joseph's Steakhouse has been a Connecticut favorite since 2000 and takes inspiration from classic New York steakhouses.

The upscale restaurant serves dry-aged porterhouse steaks, sizzling plates, classic sides, and an extensive wine list in an elegant setting.

DELAWARE: Snuff Mill in Wilmington

Named the best steakhouse in the state by Tasting Table, Snuff Mill is a modern steakhouse, with its own butchery, inside Wilmington's Independence Mall.

The stylish restaurant, which has a farm-to-table approach, is known for premium cuts of steak, creative sides, and a menu built on local ingredients.

FLORIDA: Bern's Steak House in Tampa

While it's not technically the oldest steakhouse in the state — Okeechobee Steakhouse in West Palm Beach has Bern's beat by about 10 years — Bern's Steak House is regarded as the most iconic steakhouse in Florida.

Famous for its curated selection of prime and dry-aged steaks and for having one of the largest wine collections in the world, Bern's offers an elegant environment where guests can top off their meal in the upstairs dessert room with a hearty serving of traditional bananas Foster or baked Alaska.

GEORGIA: Bones Restaurant in Atlanta

Bones Restaurant has been a cornerstone of Atlanta's dining scene since 1979 and has been named the city's best steakhouse for over 18 consecutive years by Atlanta Magazine.

In 2024, Bones was also recognized by OpenTable as the top steakhouse in the country.

The upscale steakhouse is renowned for its aged steaks, especially its ribeye and filet, as well as its award-winning wine list and impeccable service.

HAWAII: Hy's Steak House in Waikiki

Hy's Steak House has been a Waikiki institution since 1976, bringing classic steakhouse traditions to Honolulu.

Blending entertainment with crowd-pleasing cuisine, the elegant restaurant is known for USDA Prime steaks cooked over kiawe wood and tableside preparations of classic sides such as Caesar salad.

IDAHO: The Stagecoach Inn in Boise

The Stagecoach Inn has been serving Boise since 1959 and remains one of the city's most iconic steakhouses.

The rustic restaurant is known for its hearty prime rib and ribeye steaks, as well as its Western-themed atmosphere that reflects Idaho's ranching heritage.

ILLINOIS: Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in Chicago

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, opened in 1989, is one of Chicago's most famous steakhouses and a pioneer of USDA Prime Angus beef.

A classic American steakhouse, this Chicago institution is as famous for its wedge salad, lobster bisque, chocolate cake, and crab cakes as it is for its prime cuts of steak.

INDIANA: St. Elmo Steak House in Indianapolis

St. Elmo Steak House, founded in 1902, is one of the oldest steakhouses in the United States.

The Indianapolis icon is best known for its fiery shrimp cocktail — famous for its "sinus-clearing" horseradish cocktail sauce — along with classic steaks and an old-school dining experience.

IOWA: Northwestern Steakhouse in Mason City

Founded by Greek immigrants, Northwestern Steakhouse has been a Mason City institution since the 1920s.

The unique steakhouse is known for its signature method of cooking steaks in butter and serving them with simple sides like spaghetti, creating a distinct regional tradition.

KANSAS: The Golden Ox in Kansas City

The Golden Ox opened in Kansas City in 1949 and has been a cultural institution ever since. The restaurant claims to be the birthplace of the Kansas City strip steak.

Other popular menu items include the wedge salad, lobster mac and cheese, and oysters Rockefeller.

KENTUCKY: Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse in Louisville

Founded by restaurateur Jeff Ruby, Jeff Ruby's Steakhouse is one of Kentucky's most glamorous dining destinations. In addition to Louisville, the steakhouse has locations in Lexington, Nashville, Cincinnati, and Columbus, Ohio.

As well as classic cuts of USDA Prime steaks, the restaurant is known for its expansive sushi menu and over-the-top service, which have made it a destination for celebrities like Guy Fieri, Jack Harlow, and Serena Williams.

LOUISIANA: Dickie Brennan's Steakhouse in New Orleans

Dickie Brennan's Steakhouse opened in 1998 and continues the legacy of one of New Orleans' most famous restaurant families.

The French Quarter institution is known for its dry-aged steaks alongside Creole-inspired classics like turtle soup and oysters.

MAINE: The Steakhouse in Wells

While less fancy than other restaurants on this list, The Steakhouse in Wells is a longtime local favorite known for its classic, no-frills approach to steakhouse dining.

The restaurant draws loyal crowds for hand-cut steaks, prime rib, fries, and baked potatoes, all served in a relaxed setting popular with locals and summer visitors.

MARYLAND: The Prime Rib in Baltimore

The Prime Rib has been a Baltimore institution since 1965, beloved for its old-school elegance, live jazz, and tuxedo-wearing waiters.

The iconic restaurant is best known for its perfectly cooked prime rib, served with classic sides like mashed potatoes and vegetables.

MASSACHUSETTS: Frank's Steak House in North Cambridge

Frank's Steak House has been serving the Cambridge area since 1938, making it one of New England's oldest steakhouses.

The old-school favorite is known for its low-key charm, affordable steaks, and classic sides, offering a nostalgic dining experience that has changed very little over the decades.

MICHIGAN: London Chop House in Detroit

The London Chop House, originally opened in 1938, is one of Detroit's most storied dining destinations.

The legendary steakhouse is known for premium cuts like filet and porterhouse, with a distinctly British feel thanks to its accompanying cigar lounge.

MINNESOTA: Manny's Steakhouse in Minneapolis

Manny's Steakhouse is one of Minneapolis' most celebrated dining spots, known for its over-the-top steakhouse experience.

The restaurant is famous for massive, dry-aged cuts of beef, including enormous ribeyes and porterhouses.

MISSISSIPPI: The Enid Depot in Enid

The Enid Depot is an out-of-the-box steakhouse set inside a historic train depot in the Mississippi Delta.

Named the best steakhouse in Mississippi in 2025 by the Mississippi Beef Council and the Mississippi Cattlemen's Association, the restaurant is known for its steaks and Southern-inspired sides, along with a rustic setting that reflects the region's history.

MISSOURI: Kreis' Steakhouse & Bar in Frontenac

Kreis' Steakhouse & Bar has been a St. Louis-area staple since 1948, known for its classic steakhouse cuts and sides.

The restaurant is especially famous for its prime rib, slow-roasted and carved tableside, along with an old-school atmosphere and attentive service.

MONTANA: Lolo Creek Steakhouse in Missoula

Lolo Creek Steakhouse is a Montana favorite with a rustic, ranch-style dining experience.

The spot is best known for its grill-your-own steak concept, where guests cook cuts like ribeye and sirloin over an open flame.

NEBRASKA: Johnny's Cafe in Omaha

Johnny's Cafe dates back to 1922 and is one of Omaha's most historic steakhouses. In February, it was named a James Beard America's Classics restaurant, an honor that recognizes "institutions that reflect local character" and "serve as an enduring anchor for their communities," according to the James Beard Foundation.

The steakhouse, found next to the historic Omaha Stockyards, is known for Omaha beef, prime rib, and its vintage dining rooms.

NEVADA: The Golden Steer Steakhouse in Las Vegas

The Golden Steer Steakhouse, opened in 1958, is one of Las Vegas' most legendary dining spots and arguably the most famous steakhouse in the entire country.

The pricey Rat Pack-era restaurant is known for its tableside Caesar salad, prime rib, and for having served icons like Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Hanover Street Chophouse in Manchester

Hanover Street Chophouse is a modern classic in Manchester, known for its upscale take on the traditional steakhouse. It opened in 2005.

The restaurant is known for expertly prepared steaks, fresh seafood, and elegant touches like live jazz, making it a local go-to for special occasions.

NEW JERSEY: Knife and Fork Inn in Atlantic City

The Knife and Fork Inn, opened in 1912, is one of Atlantic City's most historic restaurants.

The iconic steakhouse is known for its classic cuts, seafood dishes, and storied past, which includes ties to Prohibition-era figures and politicians.

NEW MEXICO: Monte Carlo Steak House in Albuquerque

Monte Carlo Steak House has been a local favorite for decades, operating out of a former liquor store in Albuquerque.

It's known for affordable, well-cooked steaks, generous portions, family-style house salad, and its quirky, old-school charm.

NEW YORK: Peter Luger Steakhouse in Brooklyn

Peter Luger Steakhouse, established in 1887, is one of the most famous steakhouses in the United States.

And, though it may have lost its Michelin star in 2022, the New York mainstay is still a favorite among locals and tourists.

The Brooklyn institution is known for its dry-aged porterhouse steaks, no-nonsense service, and signature sides like creamed spinach and thick-cut bacon.

NORTH CAROLINA: Angus Barn in Raleigh

The Angus Barn, opened in 1960, is one of North Carolina's most iconic restaurants, set in a rustic barn-style building that goes all out for Christmas with its festive decorations.

In addition to its unique atmosphere, the destination steakhouse is known for its prime rib and extensive wine cellar.

NORTH DAKOTA: Jack's Steakhouse & Seafood in Bismarck

Jack's Steakhouse & Seafood is a longtime Bismarck favorite known for its classic steakhouse offerings.

The busy, family-friendly restaurant draws locals for hand-cut steaks, seafood dishes, simple sides, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

OHIO: The Pine Club in Dayton

The Pine Club, established in 1947, is one of Ohio's most legendary steakhouses. The cash-only institution has a strict no-reservations policy — even George H.W. Bush famously had to wait for a table during a campaign stop in 1988.

It's also known for its perfectly cooked steaks and generous portions that have remained unchanged for decades.

OKLAHOMA: Cattlemen's Steakhouse in Oklahoma City

Cattlemen's Steakhouse, founded in 1910, is one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants in Oklahoma and a cornerstone of the historic Stockyards City.

The iconic steakhouse is known for its T-bone steaks, lamb fries, and cowboy roots, and has served ranchers and visitors for more than a century.

OREGON: Cowboy Dinner Tree in Silver Lake

Cowboy Dinner Tree offers a truly unique, Old West dining experience in rural Oregon.

The remote destination is famous for its massive, pre-ordered steaks and whole roasted chickens, served in a rustic lodge that feels like stepping back in time.

PENNSYLVANIA: Oldestone Steakhouse in New Hope

Oldestone Steakhouse is housed inside a restored and renovated church overlooking the Delaware River in New Hope.

The atmospheric restaurant is known for premium steaks and fresh seafood, as well as its unique ambiance and white tablecloth service.

RHODE ISLAND: The White Horse Tavern in Newport

The White Horse Tavern in Newport, established in 1673, is widely considered the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States.

While not a traditional steakhouse, the historic tavern serves hearty classic fare, including steaks, in a cozy, colonial-era setting that offers a rare glimpse into early American dining.

SOUTH CAROLINA: Halls Chophouse in Charleston

Halls Chophouse has become one of Charleston's most celebrated steakhouses, known for its USDA Prime steaks, attentive tableside service, and its lively dining room, where owners are often seen personally greeting guests.

The most popular items on the menu include classics like prime rib and filet mignon, as well as local favorites like she crab soup and creamed corn.

SOUTH DAKOTA: Morrie's Steakhouse in Sioux Falls

Morrie's Steakhouse is a modern classic in Sioux Falls, known for elevating the traditional steakhouse experience in the region.

The restaurant is known for its steaks, fresh seafood, including creamy lobster mashed potatoes, and an extensive wine and cocktail list.

TENNESSEE: Folk's Folly in Memphis

Folk's Folly has been a Memphis institution since 1977, founded by Humphrey Folk as a classic neighborhood steakhouse.

The longtime favorite is known for hand-cut steaks, signature prime rib, and its welcoming, family-run atmosphere that has kept locals coming back for decades.

TEXAS: The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo

The Big Texan Steak Ranch, which opened in 1960 along Route 66, is one of the most famous steakhouses in America.

Far from white-glove service, the Western-themed destination is best known for its legendary 72-ounce steak challenge, massive portions, and a kitschy, tourist-friendly atmosphere.

UTAH: Maddox Ranch House in Perry

Originally founded as a small roadside café, Maddox Ranch House has been serving Utah locals and tourists since 1949.

The longtime favorite is known for its ranch-style meals, including steaks and fried chicken, as well as its famous homemade rolls and raspberry butter. The restaurant has a rustic, family-friendly setting, as well as a drive-in for faster service.

VERMONT: E.B. Strong's Prime Steakhouse in Burlington

Established in 2012 as the state's first USDA Prime steakhouse, E.B. Strong's Prime Steakhouse offers an upscale dining experience in downtown Burlington.

The restaurant is known for high-quality cuts like filet mignon and ribeye, as well as classic steakhouse favorites like shrimp cocktail, wedge salad, and pork chops.

VIRGINIA: Piedmont Steakhouse in Culpeper

Piedmont Steakhouse is known for its hand-cut steaks and locally sourced ingredients, served in a cozy, relaxed setting that reflects the region's growing food scene.

Housed inside a historic 1890s brick-lined building, the restaurant perfectly melds modern dining with a touch of local history.

WASHINGTON: The Metropolitan Grill in Seattle

The Metropolitan Grill has been a Seattle institution since 1983. It's located inside the historic Marion Building, which dates back to the early 1900s.

The classic steakhouse is known for its dry-aged steaks, especially the bone-in ribeye, along with tableside service and an old-school yet buzzy atmosphere.

WEST VIRGINIA: The Wonder Bar Steakhouse in Clarksburg

West Virginia is apparently for lovers. Opened on Valentine's Day in 1946, The Wonder Bar Steakhouse has been a Clarksburg favorite for decades, known for its welcoming, neighborhood feel.

The restaurant is famous for its steaks and classic Italian-American dishes.

WISCONSIN: Five O'Clock Steakhouse in Milwaukee

Five O'Clock Steakhouse dates back to 1946 and is a quintessential old-school, family-owned supper club.

The dimly lit spot is known for its intimate atmosphere, classic cocktails, tuxedoed waiters, and decadent steaks.

WYOMING: Miners & Stockmen's in Hartville

Miners & Stockmen's Steakhouse, established in 1862, is the oldest bar in Wyoming and a true Old West relic.

Patrons can choose from a long list of wines or 35 types of whiskey to accompany the steakhouse's classic New York strip steak, wedge salad, and truffle garlic mashed potatoes.

• Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang offered a fiery defense of his push to sell chips in China.
• Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei previously wrote that such sales were like selling nukes to North Korea.
• Huang said the US doesn't want a world where its tech stack is used only for closed-source models.

There's one subject Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei will likely never agree on.

Huang, who has repeatedly defended his belief that US companies should be able to sell advanced chips in China, didn't take kindly to Amodei comparing such sales to "selling nuclear weapons to North Korea and then bragging that the missile casings are made by Boeing" in a recent essay.

When tech podcaster Dwarkesh Patel mentioned Amodei's quote during a recent episode of the "Dwarkesh Podcast," Huang immediately pushed back.

"Comparing AI to anything that you just mentioned is lunacy," Huang said.

Amodei is one of the most outspoken opponents in the AI and tech industry against the position that the US should sell advanced chips in China in hopes of getting companies reliant on the US tech stack. Huang has previously said the Chinese sales could account for $50 billion a year for Nvidia. The Anthropic CEO has said such sales would give China a leg up that it doesn't need.

"China is several years behind the US in their ability to produce frontier chips in quantity, and the critical period for building the country of geniuses in a datacenter is very likely to be within those next several years," Amodei wrote in his essay "The Adolescence of Technology," published in January. "There is no reason to give a giant boost to their AI industry during this critical period."

Huang became more defiant when Patel pushed Amodei's argument further by comparing AI compute to enriched uranium, a key component of a nuclear weapon.

"We're not enriched uranium. It's a chip, and it's a chip that they can make themselves," Huang said.

Amodei did not mention Nvidia or Huang by name in his January essay, but it was clear who he was writing about, given the Nvidia CEO's persistent lobbying. The pair have clashed before, but tensions seemed to be improving after Nvidia announced in November that it could invest up to $10 billion in Anthropic as part of a partnership between Nvidia, Anthropic, and Microsoft.

Ultimately, Huang said, the arguments call for the US to concede "the second largest market in the world for no good reason at all." The Nvidia CEO said he's concerned about a world where closed-source models are dominant in the US but open-source models, which are extremely popular in China, have their own space.

"It would be extremely foolish to create two ecosystems: the open source ecosystem, and it only runs on a foreign tech stack, and a closed ecosystem that runs on the American tech stack," Huang said. "I think that would be a horrible outcome for the United States."

Huang successfully pushed the Trump administration to allow sales of H-200 chips, an older generation, in China, a reversal of Biden-era restrictions on such business due to national security concerns, provided that the US government receives a 25% cut of any sales.

Nvidia CFO Colette Kress told analysts in February that the chipmaker had "yet to generate any revenue" from H-200 sales in China. The Financial Times previously reported that a US security review had slowed down final approval.

Growing up, my parents had a pull-out sofa bed that my friends and I used during sleepovers. It was the kind with a metal bed frame and a super thin foldable mattress that had the thickness of a mattress topper. When I moved into my own house, I was glad to offer a guest bed to visitors, but sometimes my visitors outnumber the guest bedroom availability, and someone has to sleep on the couch. For this reason, I was excited to find the Koala Sofa Bed, a stylish and compact couch that flips out to turn into a mattress. Unlike the sofa beds of yesteryear, there are no metal bed frames inside the Koala Sofa Bed. Instead, the cushions fold out and lie on the floor, so you can freely stretch out. Even if you have a small space, the Koala Sofa Bed makes it possible to host overnight guests.

I assembled a queen-size version of the 4th generation Koala Sofa Bed and tested it for two weeks, relaxing on the sofa during the day and in the evenings folding it out into a bed to sleep on overnight. I previously tested the brand's 3rd generation version, so when they came out with the latest version, it was only natural for me to see the evolution of this small-space friendly sofa bed.

Where the 3rd gen was super firm and supportive as both a sofa or mattress, the 4th gen incorporates a slightly deeper depth seat; removable, washable, and water-resistant covers; and improvements to seat comfort with a plush pillow-top layer, zoned backrest, front edge support, and a sturdy support base.

Keep reading to learn more about the Koala Sofa Bed 4th gen and see how it compares to the best sofas.

Design and customizations

The Koala Sofa Bed comes in three small-space-friendly sizes: queen (70 inches wide), full (64 inches), and twin XL (46 inches). The queen and full versions resemble compact loveseats, while the twin XL looks more like an armchair. When unfolded, each matches standard mattress dimensions.

It's available in a mix of classic and premium fabrics. Classic options—like Olive Butter (what I tested), Morning Fog, and Cinnamon Sky—are water-resistant and made with recycled polyester, while premium fabrics (Silver Sand, Forest Dawn, and Moonlit Silver) have a dobby weave that blend polyester with recycled materials. There are also two corduroy options: Coastal Moss and Sand Stone.

The frame is made from FSC-certified timber, and the cushions use CertiPUR-US certified foam with layered support and comfort fillings. Additional pillows and seat inserts add softness, and all covers are removable and machine washable (air dry only). You can also swap out covers down the line, with replacements ranging from $500 to $1,050.

Delivery and setup

The Koala Sofa Bed shipped free via FedEx in five boxes. Delivery can take 2-7 days depending on where you live. I was able to easily move the boxes from my front porch into my living room.

As a single woman who lives alone, I hate asking a neighbor or friend to come over to help me assemble furniture. I was able to move the boxes myself and put everything together in about 90 minutes — no tools required. The provided instructions are clear, and the pieces slot together intuitively (like the arms sliding into latches on the back). Most of the time went toward stretching the removable covers over the frame, cushions, and foldable mattress, which takes a bit of effort. For comparison, the brand's 3rd-generation model took just 30 minutes since the covers came pre-installed.

Comfort and durability

I test mattresses quite often and have tested sleeper sofas in the past, so I am familiar evaluating firmness. Overall, I found the Koala Sofa Bed cushions both comfortable and supportive to sit on. The seat cushions feel supportive yet comfortable, thanks to thin removable inserts that add just enough softness without sacrificing structure. You get a slight "sink-in" feel, but the underlying cushions remain firm and supportive, whether you're lounging or working on a laptop. I especially like this newer version for delivering both comfort and support.

Perhaps most notably, I found the Koala Sofa Bed to be one of the easiest to convert from a couch to a bed, even quicker than assembling an air mattress. After removing the back and side pillows, all I had to do was unclip the back cushion from the back frame and then pull the back cushion forward and the bottom cushions followed. The cushions are connected so they extend out in one swoop onto the ground. It's as easy to close the sofa as it is to open it.

The cushions lie flat on the floor, which means you're only five or six inches off the ground. If your floors are dirty and you order a lighter-tone Koala Sofa Bed, there is a possibility that such grime will appear on the fabric when you convert it back to a couch. I have a rug in my living room, so I didn't have to worry about this, but it might be a good idea to place a sheet on the ground before opening the couch. I can see why many pull-out sofa beds have bed frames or legs to keep the bed off the ground. If for any reason the fabric does get dirty, you can always remove the covers and wash them.

For sleeping, the mattress part is noticeably firmer, and I found getting comfortable difficult at first. I'd rate it around an 8 out of 10 — great for back and stomach sleepers, but likely too firm for side sleepers, especially those under 170 pounds. It took me about five nights to adjust, and I still found there wasn't much pressure relief at the hips for side sleeping. There's also a slight seam between cushions, which I noticed, though I was able to position myself so it wasn't disruptive, but if you're taller, you may not be able to re-adjust. Fortunately, I didn't get hot, warm, or sweaty sleeping on the mattress (no matter what I wore) throughout the testing period.

As for the edge support, it was far better than I expected. Rather than fold the mattress into a couch every day, sometimes I left it open, taking Zoom calls while sitting on the edge of the mattress. I felt decently supported, which was no surprise since the mattress is on the firmer side. Lying near the edge of the mattress didn't cause any issues either. The edge didn't dip, and I never felt concerned that I'd roll or slip off.

The firmness level of the mattress shouldn't deter you from the Koala Sofa Bed. Your guests will manage just fine sleeping on it for a few days during their visit, though a soft mattress topper or pad wouldn't hurt to add. In my two weeks of testing, I haven't noticed any softening of the mattress cushions as of yet.

Cons to consider

I wouldn't necessarily say that the Koala Sofa Bed has "cons." It's more accurate to say that there are some preference drawbacks. The first is how low this sofa is to the ground. I like that gap between my couch and the floor, and if you do too, this is not the couch for you.

I should also add that the queen-sized Koala Sofa Bed is compact at 70 inches. You can only fit one large person or two medium-sized or smaller persons on it. In fact, it looks more like a loveseat than a couch, which makes it a great choice for a small living room or apartment. It might look too petite in a large home or living area.

Assembling the 4th generation Koala Sofa Bed takes much longer due to the fact that you have to add the covers to the entire frame, cushions, and pillows. If all that wasn't enough, it will take some strength and patience to properly stretch the cover over the frame so that the lining underneath is completely hidden.

Lastly, the sofa mattress is firm. It took my body about five days to get comfortable with the firmness of the mattress, and that's coming from someone who prefers medium to firm mattresses. Your first few overnight guests may not like the firmness of the pull-out bed. At least the cushions are supportive, which is important for lower back health.

What are your alternatives?

Where the Koala Sofa Bed is better suited to apartments or small living rooms, Koala's Byron Sofa Bed is a good option for those able to accommodate something larger. It comes in one size — queen — but is considerably wider at 92 inches. As a couch, it has an elegant, round-edge design with deep seating and plush arms. It has a similar fold-out design but differs thanks to concealed storage and a nifty slide-out platform base that the cushions sit on so they don't touch the ground. The Bryon Sofa Bed is about $200 more than the queen-sized version of the Koala Sofa Bed. The mattress also sits horizontally, following the length of the sofa.

The Sabai Eclipse Sleeper Sofa is another small-space friendly option with a similar design and dimensions as the queen-sized version of the Koala Sofa Bed. (Sabai also offers an Eclipse Chair that converts to a single-size sofa bed.) It's made-to-order in many different colors in hemp, recycled velvet, and upcycled poly fabrics. The Eclipse Sofa is a bit more expensive than the Koala, but that's likely due to the more stylish fabric and the sustainable materials used in this sofa bed. For instance, the fabrics are free of PFAs and the brand uses rubberized coconut fiber in the cushions.

Finally, Cozey offers the Neptune Sofa Bed 2 Seater, which is 64 inches wide, making it the same dimensions as the full-size version of the Koala Sofa Bed. However, the Neptune 2-Seater is modular and can be built out with other pieces in the future. Rather than a fold-out design, the back cushions of the Neptune appear to shift down while the bottom cushions pull out, creating a full-size bed. The Neptune cushions are a bit more prominent (they stick out in the middle) than the Koala Sofa Bed, so you're going to feel the dips between the cushions, which might not be comfortable. The cushions of the Neptune don't touch the ground. Read our Cozey Neptune Sofa review.

The bottom line

If I'd known a sofa bed like the Koala Sofa Bed 4th generation was around when I lived in an apartment, I would have absolutely invested in one. The Koala Sofa Bed is available in three different sizes (queen, full, and twin XL) and multiple colors with removable, washable covers that make it easy to refresh over time, without having to replace your sofa. It's stylish and cozy, and easily converts into a bed with its simple fold-out design. Sure, the mattress cushions are quite firm, but seat inserts means the sofa is comfortable to sit on when watching TV or reading a book. Koala also offers a 120-night night trial and a five-year warranty, giving you the opportunity to try it out for yourself.

• Trump's student-loan repayment overhaul will go into effect in July.
• The changes include new borrowing caps for students and parents.
• Some borrowers may qualify for an exception to the new limits if they meet certain requirements.

Major student-loan changes are coming, including new caps on borrowing. Some people might not face them right away.

On July 1, the repayment changes in President Donald Trump's "big beautiful" spending legislation will take effect. The changes include a new income-driven repayment plan, ending a program that allows graduate students to borrow the full cost of attendance, and introducing new borrowing caps for advanced degrees.

While some provisions will be phased in by 2028, others, like the new borrowing caps, will be implemented this summer. However, some borrowers may qualify for an exception.

According to Federal Student Aid, borrowers who meet the following requirements will be able to retain the loan limits that existed prior to July 1:

• You were enrolled in a program of study as of June 30, 2026
• You received at least one direct federal loan, or your parent received a parent PLUS loan, for that program of study prior to July 1, 2026
• And you are enrolled at the same institution and pursuing the same credential after July 1, 2026, meaning that if you are in a bachelor's degree program, you cannot switch to an associate degree program to maintain the loan limit exception.

Borrowers who qualify for the exception will retain it for either three academic years or the difference between the expected length of the program and the amount the borrower has already completed, whichever is shorter.

The Trump administration has said the repayment overhaul is intended to simplify a complicated repayment system and curb excessive borrowing, for example with the new caps.

Advocates and Democratic lawmakers have warned that the looming repayment changes could financially strain borrowers. In addition to the new loan limits, the Trump administration also eliminated the SAVE repayment plan, created by former President Joe Biden to give borrowers cheaper monthly payments and a shorter timeline to loan forgiveness.

In July, the 7 million borrowers enrolled in SAVE will begin learning details of their 90-day timeframe to switch to a new repayment plan and face higher monthly payments, some to the tune of hundreds of dollars more.

Have a story to share about student loans? Reach out to this reporter at asheffey@businessinsider.com.

• The US Navy has committed more than a dozen warships to enforcing its blockade of Iranian ports.
• At the center of these efforts is a number of Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers.
• The top US general on Thursday called them the "backbone" of the Navy's surface fleet.

US Navy guided-missile destroyers are playing a central role in the military blockade of Iranian ports, alongside a diverse mix of American warships and combat aircraft.

Speaking at the Pentagon on Thursday, the top US general said the Navy's Arleigh Burke-class destroyers are the "backbone" of the surface fleet and singled out their role in the blockade.

"It is the sports car of the United States Navy," Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters.

Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, crewed by around 300 sailors, are packed with firepower, including nearly 100 vertical launch cells for a mix of air-defense and strike missiles. They also field deck guns for surface threats and embark combat helicopters, giving them the ability to track, target, and engage threats across air and sea.

"Far and away, the most important weapon on board these ships is the American sailor," Caine said, adding later that the destroyers are "run by the youngest sailors in our surface warfare navy." The helmsmen, tasked with steering the warships, may be as young as 18, he said.

The Pentagon has not disclosed the specific number of destroyers involved in the ongoing blockade, but it said more than a dozen warships are participating. Among those are the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli, both of which are carrying embarked fighter jets.

Dozens of surveillance aircraft, refueling planes, and drones are also involved in enforcing the blockade, preventing merchant vessels from entering or leaving Iranian ports and straining Iran's maritime economy.

US Central Command, which oversees American military operations in the Middle East, said the destroyer USS Spruance on Tuesday had "successfully redirected" an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel that tried to evade the blockade.

CENTCOM said on Thursday that 14 vessels have turned around to comply with the blockade since it began on Monday.

US troops have not yet boarded any vessels in the Middle East. Caine said that American forces beyond the region will pursue Iranian-flagged vessels trying to provide "material support" to Tehran, including those carrying sanctioned oil.

The naval blockade came after the US and Iran reached a tenuous ceasefire to end more than a month of war. It stands to reduce critical oil revenue, on which Tehran is dependent, and further strain its struggling economy.

Shortly before the blockade began on Monday, the US military said it started "setting conditions" for clearing Iranian mines in the Strait of Hormuz. It sent two destroyers through the strategic waterway last weekend.

With the blockade and mine-clearing operations, the US has entered a risky new phase in its war with Iran, which remains armed with fast-attack boats and anti-ship missiles that could threaten American warships involved in the missions.

Most cats prefer fine-grained, unscented clumping litter, which is typical of quality clay formulas. That said, depending on your needs, the best natural cat litters can be a good alternative. Clay litter often produces dust that can irritate both cats and people, but some natural litters are nearly dust-free. They're also more eco-friendly, since they're biodegradable and typically sourced more sustainably than clay or silica gel. Plus, thanks to their fibrous materials and natural scents, natural litters are effective at absorbing urine and controlling odors.

To choose the best natural cat litter, freelance pets reporter Shoshi Parks and I consulted veterinarians and cat behaviorists. Over the course of five years, we've collectively tested two dozen formulas with five different cats. My top pick is Sustainably Yours Small-Grain Formula, a corn-and-cassava blend with a soft texture that our tester cats loved. It forms solid clumps on contact and produces no detectable scent or dust. Natural litters are often more expensive than clay, but affordable options are available. World's Best Multiple Cat Unscented Litter is a budget-friendly, high-quality corn-based option. It clumps quickly, controls odors effectively, and performs well even in multi-cat households.

That said, not all cats are willing to switch from their usual litter. Veterinarians and behavior specialists say cats are creatures of habit and often prefer familiar materials over new ones. We saw this firsthand during testing: two cats were hesitant and used the unfamiliar litter only occasionally, while three others from different households adapted with little trouble.

Read more about how Business Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.

Our top picks for the best natural cat litters

Best overall: Sustainably Yours Small-Grain Formula - See at Chewy

Best budget: World's Best Multiple Cat Unscented Litter - See at Chewy

Best wood: Ökocat Super Soft Clumping Litter - See at Chewy

Best walnut: Naturally Fresh Quick Clumping Litter - See at Chewy

Best wheat: Arm & Hammer Plant Power Lightweight Formula - See at Chewy

Best grass: SmartCat Clumping Grass Litter - See at Chewy

Best pine pellet: Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Litter - See at Chewy

Best overall

After four and a half years using World's Best Multiple Cat Unscented Litter, my two cats made it clear that Sustainably Yours had become their new favorite. At first, I doubted it would earn the top spot among the best natural cat litters, especially since my cats spent the first couple of days playing in the corn- and cassava-based litter instead of using it. But once they began using it regularly, I was impressed with its strong clumping ability, reliable odor control, and long-lasting performance. It also produced the least dust of any natural litter I tested, and I couldn't detect any scent at all.

Sustainably Yours has the softest, most sand-like texture of any formula I tried. Cats prefer this texture, and it's likely why my cats eagerly explored the litter before using it, says Rachel Geller, a certified cat behavior and retention specialist and founder of All Cats All the Time, Inc. The fine grains can stick to your cats' paws and track outside the box, but one of the best cat litter mats easily keeps the mess contained.

The litter's longevity more than makes up for its minor tracking issue. It formed rock-solid clumps on contact that stayed intact during scooping. One 13-pound bag was enough to fill a large litter box to a 2-inch depth, and with daily scooping, it stayed fresh for well over a month in my two-cat household.

Best budget

Eco-friendly cat litters that reduce your cat's environmental footprint, while also managing litter tracking, usually come at a premium price. But World's Best Multiple Cat Unscented Litter makes the switch from clay or silica more affordable. It costs about 40% less per pound than our top pick for the best natural cat litters, yet still delivers excellent value.

Made from compressed corn kernels and a proprietary plant-derived ingredient to enhance odor control, World's Best absorbs liquid on contact and forms solid clumps that are easy to scoop out in one piece. The natural corn-scented, fibrous material keeps odors in check, and at times, we could barely detect any urine smell. Of course, when more clumps accumulated in the box, a faint ammonia odor became noticeable. Some people are turned off by the litter's baseline scent. To me, it smells almost like fermented corn, but others on Reddit describe it as smelling like gym socks.

While its texture isn't as soft and sandy as Sustainably Yours, World's Best was gentle enough that our cats weren't deterred from using it. We also saw far less tracking compared to lighter-weight grass or walnut litter.

In my two-cat household, a 15-pound bag lasts over a month. However, despite regular scooping, I noticed an increasing ammonia odor in the final days of my three-week testing period with a traditional litter pan.

Best wood

Ökocat Super Soft Clumping Litter stood out among wood litters for its excellent odor control and superior clumping performance. Sourced from sustainably managed forests, its soft, lightweight granules are most similar to standard clay litter in texture.

During our two-week testing period, Parks's cats still favored their usual corn litter but occasionally used the Ökocat wood litter. When they did, it quickly absorbed liquids and formed clumps that were easier to scoop than other wood litters. However, the clumps were more prone to breaking apart compared to those from corn, grain, grass, and walnut-based varieties.

During testing, the litter consistently absorbed odors, prevented ammonia buildup, and gave off a fresh pine scent that was actually stronger than Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Litter. Because the litter is so lightweight, it produced moderate dust, and our cats easily tracked it outside the box.

Ökocat Super Soft was the priciest wood litter we tested, but it lasted at least as long, if not longer, than the others. The brand says the litter can last up to seven weeks with regular scooping.

Best walnut

Naturally Fresh Quick Clumping Litter is made from non-GMO and organic crushed walnut shells. Beyond its natural and nontoxic ingredients, this natural cat litter stands out for its affordability, good clumping abilities, and effectiveness in neutralizing odors. The texture is similar to medium-grained sand with super fine particles, which the brand says are essential for its clumping ability. These particles created a small dust cloud when I poured the litter, but the dust was barely noticeable during vigorous digging by my cats or when I scooped the box.

I tested Naturally Fresh Quick Clumping Litter and Multi-Cat Ultra Odor Control side-by-side in my two-cat household and found no noticeable differences between them. The brand says the multi-cat formula contains a moisture-activated probiotic that neutralizes urine and ammonia odors and minimizes the odor of cat feces, which is most useful for cats who lack burying skills. However, after conducting thorough sniff tests, I concluded the slightly cheaper Quick Clumping Litter was equally effective at minimizing odors, albeit with a slightly earthy scent. The high-fiber walnut absorbs liquid and forms clumps quickly, although clumps are prone to breaking in half or thirds.

Whether kicked out by the cats or tracked, the lightweight litter ended up on the floor, with its dark color only exacerbating the issue. Despite some litter being tossed from the box, one 2-inch fill lasted a month.

Best wheat

Arm & Hammer Plant Power Lightweight Formula is a blend of wheat and corn litter that clumps on contact. The natural grain base creates a sandy, soil-like texture that our tester cat, Matilda, was happy to dig in, use, and bury her waste in day after day.

After two weeks of testing, there was very little litter tracked outside the box, and our reporter never noticed any litter sticking to Matilda's fur. The blend also produces minimal dust, making it a solid option for pet parents looking to limit airborne particles.

Wheat is naturally absorbent, readily taking in both moisture and surrounding odors, which is why bakers store flour in airtight containers. That same quality makes wheat an effective litter material, as grain-based litters can help trap odors like ammonia before they spread throughout a room.

Although a good option for some households, people with wheat allergies should avoid this one. Some of our tester cats were also more inclined to eat wheat litter rather than use it.

Best grass

Non-GMO sorghum grass seed gives SmartCat Clumping Litter superior clumping ability. The natural fiber's high starch content absorbs liquids instantaneously, forming tight, solid clumps that do a really good job controlling odors. Because it's made from sorghum grass, it has a light wheat-cereal scent that also helps neutralize odors. It produced minimal dust, making it a good choice for cats or people with respiratory conditions.

The clumps can stick to the sides of the litter box, so you may need to do a bit of scraping to get the box fully clean. Because the litter is lightweight and made up of small granules, our cats easily tracked it outside the box, and it occasionally it stuck to the fuzzy paws of one long-haired cat. Freelance reporter Sophia Carlisle paired it with a litter mat that trapped most of the litter before it spread through the house.

Over the past few years, two testers and their cats have tried this litter. Two cats refused to use it entirely, one of my cats tried to eat it, and one of Parks's cats used it only sporadically. In our most recent round of testing, tester kitty Matilda had no qualms about using the litter consistently. As with most litters, success ultimately comes down to your cat's preferences.

Best pine pellet

Non-clumping pellet cat litter is a practical way to keep litter from cementing in the fur of long-haired cats. Our top pick, Feline Pine Original Non-Clumping Litter, is a low-dust, low-tracking litter made from kiln-dried pine shavings from reclaimed lumber.

The pine pellets work by absorbing moisture and gradually breaking down into sawdust. For best results, I recommend using this litter with a sifting litter box. The damp shavings fall into a bottom tray, leaving fresh pellets on top while you scoop the solids. In my testing, the pellets didn't absorb liquid as quickly as clumping litters. Some pellets became damp without fully breaking down enough to sift out, which can contribute to lingering odors and a dirtier box. Urine may also drain through to the lower basin of a sifting box. For this reason, I recommend adding a fresh layer of pine pellets to the bottom tray when refreshing the box. Even so, odor control remained surprisingly effective. After 12 hours, my water-vinegar odor test smelled like fresh pine rather than vinegar.

That said, many cats prefer to dig in sandy, fine-grained litters, and in my experience, cats using pellet litter are less likely to fully cover their waste, which can contribute to odors. My adult cats consistently chose to use their sandy-textured litters over this one. However, I've used this litter with foster cats and kittens, who took to it without issue. Twice daily scooping, sifting, and maintenance of the waste tray all help keep odors at bay while creating a cleaner litter box environment for your cat.

Our top natural litter picks compared

What to look for in a natural cat litter

To get the scoop on what to look for in a natural cat litter based on both human and cat preferences, we consulted with six experts, including veterinary behaviorists and certified feline behaviorists.

Not all of the cat litter types we tested made our list of recommendations, and some come with caveats you may want to consider. For instance, tofu litters were the most expensive among our contenders. However, they turned into a goopy mess when urinated in, making scooping a sticky challenge. Although a good option for some households, wheat litter is not suitable for those with wheat allergies. We also noticed that some of our tester cats were more inclined to eat wheat and grass litter rather than use it.

Here are other important factors to consider when choosing a natural cat litter:

Clumping ability: With the exception of our pine pellet litter recommendation, our picks for the best natural cat litter are clumping because they simplify litter box maintenance and keep the litter fresher for longer. We also tested natural non-clumping litters and discovered that removing soiled material was challenging, which can cause some cats to avoid the litter box, create unpleasant odors, and necessitate more frequent litter changes.

Scent and odor control: A litter doesn't need to be scented to control odors. In fact, the best cat litter works by neutralizing bad smells rather than masking them with fragrance, and this is better for cats, too. “Cats have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell,” says Dr. Katherine Pankratz, a veterinarian and behavioral medicine clinician at Animal Behavior Clinic in Portland Oregon. “When litter contains scent, it could be noxious and potentially aversive to cats, leading them to want to eliminate elsewhere.”

To ensure effective odor trapping or neutralization, opt for litters with natural starches that form tight clumps to lock in odors effectively. For instance, Sustainability Yours uses cassava starch as a clumping agent. Some natural litters may contain baking soda to neutralize odors. Wood and walnut formulas naturally absorb liquid and neutralize odors.

Texture: According to our experts, cats prefer a soft, grainy substrate most similar to sand. Substrate that is too large or sharp could prove challenging to dig and may even be uncomfortable on your cat's paw pads.

Dust: When you’re pouring and scooping litter or when your cat is digging, you want a litter that doesn't produce a large cloud of dust. Dust can irritate humans' and cats' respiratory systems, leading to coughing, sneezing, and difficulty breathing. Natural litters typically produce less dust than clay and silica litter and don’t contain bentonite, a clay that can be harmful to humans when inhaled.

Price: The simplest way to compare cat litter prices is by calculating the price per pound. In our testing, we also considered the longevity of each litter, as the price per pound doesn't always correspond to the monthly cost. For example, Sustainability Yours, priced at $1.81 per pound in January 2024, may not seem like a good value at first glance. However, we found that the litter remained fresh throughout the month, and we only replenished the litter because it was low rather than stinky.

Sustainability: "By switching to natural litters that are compostable or biodegradable, we can help our planet," says Dr. Zay Satchu, a veterinarian and chairman of the board of Bond Vet. Natural litters are often made from sustainable resources, such as responsibly managed forests, upcycled food waste, and quick-growing plants. Their acquisition and disposal have a lower environmental impact than strip-mined clay litter. To ensure the natural litter you're considering is committed to eco-friendly initiatives, check their website for sustainability reports, goals, and transparency regarding their materials sourcing and processing methods.

How we tested the best natural cat litters

We tested the natural cat litters by comparing litters of the same material side by side to evaluate their absorption and clumping abilities, dustiness, scent, and texture. Then, the top two litters in each category underwent additional testing for two to four weeks to assess odor control and tracking. Below are the additional characteristics we examined for each litter.

Litter weight, shape, and softness: According to our experts, cats generally prefer a soft, grainy substrate that is easy to dig. We evaluated the shape and grain size using a kitchen strainer, texture by touch, and weight by measuring an equal volume of each litter on a kitchen scale.

Dust: One of the reasons veterinarians recommend natural litters is because they tend to be lower in dust than the average clay litter, making them a good option for cats and people with respiratory issues. We observed how much dust was emitted when pouring and scooping the litter and how much stuck to the sides of the pan.

Scent: Many cats are sensitive to scent. Even natural scents like those of wood litter can make some cats avoid their litter box, says Dr. Christine Calder, a veterinary behaviorist and owner of Calder Veterinary Behavior Services. We did a careful sniff test of each litter to determine the strength of its natural scent.

Clumping ability and ease of cleaning: We compared a measured amount of each litter in matching dishes. We added 1/4 cup of water to determine how quickly and easily the liquid was absorbed and how solidly it held together in clumps. After two absorption trials, we cleaned the dishes, looking for any escaped moisture that had left clumped litter stuck to their interior.

Odor control and tracking: We tested the top litters from each category in litter boxes for two to three weeks. During twice-daily cleanings, we noted how well the litter masked odors and whether that ability changed over time. We also considered how easy it was to remove clumps and how much litter was tracked onto the floor around the litter pan. Because our tester cats were unwilling to use grass litter regularly, we could not determine how well it would control odors after weeks of use.

Cost: We compared the cost per pound of the litters. Additionally, we accounted for the longevity of the litter and the quantity needed to fill a large litter box to a preferred depth — 1.5 to 2 inches, as recommended by Geller.

Natural cat litter FAQs

Is natural cat litter good?

Natural cat litters offer several advantages. They are environmentally friendly, made from sustainable resources such as responsibly managed forests, upcycled food waste, and quick-growing plants. Additionally, these litters provide natural odor control without the intense scents found in artificially scented options, creating a more inviting environment for cats. Cats with respiratory issues may benefit from switching to a natural litter with minimal dust, according to Satchu. She says grass litters are consistently among the most dust-free of the best natural cat litters, though we found in testing that some of the walnut, wood, and grain litters produced equally minimal dust.

What is the best natural cat litter to use?

When it comes to natural cat litter, all of our experts say that the best variety is whatever one your cat is willing to use consistently day in and day out. Sometimes this comes down to what variety of litter a cat was exposed to early on. "Just like people, they have different levels of tolerance based on preference and learning history," says Micah McKechnie, a behavior and training associate at East Bay SPCA.

Is corn cat litter any good?

It can be. The best corn cat litters produce minimal dust, clump solidly, fight odors with a natural cereal scent, and are safe if accidentally or intentionally ingested by a cat. However, some corn litters have a rocky texture that may deter some cats.

Is wood cat litter better?

The plant fibers in wood litters are highly absorbent, and their natural pine scent offers the best odor control of all the natural varieties. They are also made from sustainably sourced forests or reclaimed lumber and produce minimal dust. However, in our testing, we found that wood litters were least successful at forming tight, easy-to-remove clumps compared to their natural competitors.

Is walnut litter good for cats?

Walnut litters can be a good option for some cats and households. They are made from the fibrous, absorbent shells of walnuts. This litter is processed into a sandy grain with a satisfyingly scratchable texture, but its light weight results in frequent tracking outside the litter box. Walnut litters clump well but have less of a natural scent to control odors, meaning that ammonia may be slightly more noticeable than with wood, grain, and grass formulas.

Can I use grass seed for cat litter?

Yes, you can. Satchu says grass cat litters are a good option for cats with respiratory issues since they have a coarse sandy texture and generate very minimal dust. Grass litters are produced from the seeds of grasses like sorghum. Although they are highly absorbent and their natural wheat-cereal scent masks odors, their lightweight grains track easily outside the litter box.

Can clumping litter cause blockages?

While anything that cats can't digest can cause gastrointestinal obstructions, clumping litter is not identified as a common cause. If your cat happens to eat natural litter, as our tester cats did, see your vet to rule out underlying medical issues such as gastrointestinal disease, anemia, kidney disease, or nutritional deficiencies as well as behavioral causes. However, if they determine your cat simply has unnatural cravings, Satchu says a grain litter is a safe alternative to clay and silica.

• My diet has drastically changed since I left the US in 2018, and I've since lost 100 pounds.
• While living in Rwanda, I started eating a nutrient-dense salad every single day.
• I've brought this habit everywhere I go, and it keeps me from reaching for ultra-processed foods.

When I left the US in 2018, I wasn't trying to lose weight. I simply wanted to feel better in my body.

After over 15 years of working in education, I felt undervalued, overworked, and mentally and physically exhausted. It didn't help that I relied on fast foods, late-night snacks, and meals that left me full but never nourished.

Living abroad — first in Thailand, then in 10 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America — drastically changed my eating habits. I lost 60 pounds the first year, with the support of an herbalist and other professionals, and have since shed an additional 40 pounds.

My time in Rwanda, specifically, left a lasting mark. Shortly after moving there, I adopted the habit that still keeps me from having too many highly processed foods: I ate one salad almost every day.

To be clear, this isn't specific to or necessarily even common in Rwandan culture. However, when I was living there, I had an easy time getting my hands on a wide variety of vegetables and cooking at home.

I found that my favorite dishes — boiled beans, steamed green bananas, sautéed greens, and roasted meat — highlighted foods' natural flavors without masking them with a ton of sauces and spices.

The salads have protein, fiber, healthy fats, and carbs, making them a satisfying meal

My salads are large, hearty bowls packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and grains. They're typically my biggest meal of the day, and I feel genuinely satisfied after eating them.

Each salad typically includes the following:

• Leafy greens, such as arugula or kale
• Roasted vegetables
• Quinoa or brown rice
• Chickpeas, lentils, or grilled chicken
• Nuts, seeds, or avocado
• Extra-virgin olive oil mixed with fresh citrus juice
• Herbs and spices

I usually eat the salad as a late lunch or early dinner. Sometimes, I'll even have it in the morning. Because I don't follow a set eating schedule, it just depends on when I'm hungry.

I feel less inclined to reach for ultra-processed foods after eating a salad

Once I started eating a large salad each day, I wasn't nearly as drawn to ultra-processed foods. Instead of constantly feeling hungry or grazing on snacks throughout the day, I was full and energized.

As Gabby Zeagler, a registered dietitian, explained to me, meals with fiber, protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats "check multiple satiety boxes at once," making it less tempting to reach for ultra-processed snacks.

According to Zeagler, fiber-rich vegetables and grains help create volume in the stomach, which signals fullness to the brain, and protein reduces hunger pangs after meals.

She said that adding healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, seeds, or avocado can slow digestion even further, extending feelings of fullness and stabilizing blood-sugar levels.

"Since it's more stable, that often means fewer energy crashes and less rebound hunger," she said. "Front-loading with a nutrient-dense meal can help reduce decision fatigue and may help reduce grazing because you've already hit key nutrients like protein, fiber, and other micronutrients."

Although this habit works for me, Zeagler said that a large daily salad isn't a "one-size-fits-all" meal, explaining that it might not be ideal for people with digestive conditions, reflux, or higher energy needs.

It's worth consulting a professional if you plan to make any drastic changes to your diet.

I adapt the recipe based on my surroundings

One reason I've been able to stick to this habit for years is that I keep it simple. I just build my salads around available ingredients that I genuinely enjoy.

I currently live in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, and have brought my salad-eating habit with me. Because fresh produce spoils quickly here (even when I refrigerate it), I've made a habit of going to the local markets and grocery stores every other day.

I like to batch-prep certain cooked items like grains, beans, squash, and marinated chicken so I can quickly throw together a bowl when I'm hungry.

Zeagler said having simple food rituals makes healthy choices more manageable. "When you already know what your default meal is going to be, you remove a lot of small decisions that can lead to impulsive choices when you're stressed or hungry," she said.

The key is to make sure the salad is substantial enough to fill me up. If I'm only eating lettuce, I'm likely to be hungry again in an hour.

The salad-eating habit has improved my overall relationship with food

Eating hearty salads daily has helped me maintain my weight loss, whether I'm in Rwanda or Mexico. More importantly, it's changed my relationship with food.

Instead of obsessing over my caloric intake or following strict rules, I focus on building nourishing, well-rounded meals. It's made healthy eating feel sustainable rather than restrictive.

All in all, I've found my salad-eating habit to be simple, easy to repeat, and effective. Years after I initially lost the weight, it's still the easiest way I know to stay on track without feeling deprived.

More than a dozen warships and thousands of personnel are involved in the blockade of Iran's ports.

Maritime trackers show vessels abruptly turning back, while satellite imagery shows a US aircraft carrier maneuvering in the Gulf of Oman.

• Iran is digging out its remaining missiles and launchers, the Pentagon said Thursday.
• The US has assessed that much of Iran's missile and launch capabilities have been destroyed.
• US Navy vessels are blocking Iranian ports amid negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

The Iranian military has been digging out its remaining missiles and launchers, Pentagon leadership said Thursday as the US Navy's blockade of Iranian ports continues amid negotiations between Washington and Tehran.

The US and Israel have bombarded Iran's missile launchers and storage facilities, as well as its defense industrial base. The Pentagon has said that Operation Epic Fury heavily degraded these capabilities.

At a press briefing on Thursday, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said that he was aware of Iranian military movements and actions during the ceasefire.

"We know what military assets you are moving and where you are moving them to," Hegseth said, stating that he was speaking directly to Iranian leadership.

"You are digging out your remaining launchers and missiles with no ability to replace them," the secretary said. "You have no defense industry, no ability to replenish your offensive or defensive capabilities."

The US armed forces struck more than 13,000 targets in total during the war against Iran prior to the recent ceasefire agreement.

Earlier this month, the US said that about 80% of Iran's air defense systems, more than 1,500 targets, had been destroyed during the operation. US officials have also said Iran's defense industrial capacity has been severely weakened, including 450 ballistic missile storage facilities and roughly 90% of Iran's weaponry factories in total.

US intelligence has assessed that Iran still maintains an arsenal of missiles and launchers, much of which has been buried. Satellite images show that Iran has been conducting excavation work at some of its missile bases that were hit during the first five weeks of Operation Epic Fury. The exact number of remaining missiles and launchers remains unclear.

At the beginning of the conflict, Iran launched major missile and drone attacks on US forces and Gulf state allies and partners. Within the first week, those strikes fell by over 90%, but they didn't stop, suggesting Iran still maintained some capacity despite losing many of its missiles, launchers, and weapons production sites.

At the briefing on Thursday, Hegseth and Gen. Dan Caine, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, also said the US remained ready to resume combat operations should Iran break the ceasefire or negotiations fail.

The US and Iran began negotiations earlier this month but quickly ran into disagreements over Iran's nuclear program. One of the Trump administration's biggest goals in its war with Iran is to stop Tehran from ever obtaining a nuclear weapon.

Talks between Washington and Tehran are ongoing, but tensions remain high. The strategic Strait of Hormuz has remained a source of friction. The US has deployed naval forces for mine-clearing efforts and to enforce a blockade on ships traveling to and from Iranian ports.

"An estimated 90% of Iran's economy is fueled by international trade by sea," Adm. Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command overseeing the Middle East, said on social media. "In less than 36 hours since the blockade was implemented, US forces have completely halted all economic trade going into and out of Iran by sea."

The US is allowing commercial traffic without links to Iran to pass. Officials say Navy warships can intercept or turn back ships involved in Iranian trade. Iran has warned it could retaliate, calling the US restrictions on maritime traffic illegal.

CENTCOM said Thursday that 14 vessels have complied with military directions to turn around since the US blockade began.

• If you're flying to Europe this summer, get ready for a long wait in the airport.
• A new system is causing hourslong lines at immigration checkpoints across the continent.
• The issues are the latest in a long line of problems for air travelers in 2026.

Airport lines in the US may be back to normal — but you could be in for an hourslong wait if you're flying to Europe.

The European Union last Friday rolled out a new electronic border system at all crossing points in the Schengen Area — the common travel region comprising 29 countries across continental Europe.

Instead of manually stamping passports, the Entry/Exit System (EES) requires travelers who are not EU citizens to register their details and biometric data, including a photo and fingerprints.

Non-EU citizens without a visa can only stay in the Schengen Area for 90 days in a 180-day period, so entry and exit records need to be verified.

The EU said the new automated IT system would improve security and speed up border checks. However, the system is facing significant teething problems.

Since the system was implemented, travelers at airports across Europe have reported long waits, with some posting on social media that they have even missed flights due to lengthy lines.

This week, a major airport group called for action to address growing lines across the continent.

Olivier Jankovec, director general of Airports Council International Europe, said data from airports in 15 countries showed waiting times at border control "have significantly increased."

"Queues are now typically averaging 2 to 3 hours or even longer during peak traffic periods," he added in the statement, shared with Business Insider on Thursday.

"This is creating extremely difficult and distressing conditions for passengers, while also causing major operational disruptions for both airports and airlines," he said.

Jankovec also raised concerns about the situation getting worse as more people travel during the summer.

Rob Burgess, editor of the frequent flyer website headforpoints.com, told Business Insider, "The time taken per passenger to process has gone up sharply, but no airport that I've yet visited has added additional desks, or indeed is bothering to fully staff the ones it has."

He also said the system didn't always appear to work properly. When Burgess visited Hamburg, Germany, on Monday, he had to repeat the registration process because the biometric data he had provided two weeks earlier in Berlin wasn't available.

"My wife is German and my kids have German passports so, luckily, I am covered for family holidays because I am able to use the EU line," said Burgess, who's from the UK.

"If there are just two of you traveling and one holds an EU passport, claiming that you are married — same sex or not — allows you to both use the EU line, as it is otherwise a breach of the EU citizens' human rights," he added.

A spokesperson for the European Commission told Business Insider that the system is working "very well" in most countries, with each registration taking an average of just over a minute.

They added that technical issues have been detected in a few countries, "as can be expected in the first days of full operation of any major new system."

These are being addressed by individual countries, which are responsible for properly implementing the system, the spokesperson said.

Travel chaos across the globe

The long lines in Europe are the latest in a slew of problems for air travelers in the first few months of 2026.

Border issues in the EU come just weeks after a partial government shutdown led to huge waits at US airports in March. At some of the country's biggest airports, such as Houston and Atlanta, lines stretched to as long as 4 hours to get through security.

As TSA agents went weeks without paychecks, more of them stopped turning up to work.

Global military operations have also led to travel chaos. When the US carried out strikes in Venezuela in January, almost 1,000 flights were canceled to and from the Caribbean. One traveler told Business Insider how that led to her 6-day honeymoon becoming a 14-day trip.

And the Iran war led to tens of thousands of canceled flights into and out of the Middle East. When the strikes began on February 28, at least 145 flights had to divert.

The conflict also closed the Strait of Hormuz, a key channel for energy shipments, doubling jet fuel prices and leading to a rise in airfares around the world.

• Disney laid off employees across the company this week, including in its marketing group.
• These cuts were made to help build a "nimble and modern" organization.
• Read the full memo from Disney's brand and marketing chief below.

Disney has officially finished its latest round of layoffs, and company leaders are telling their teams what changes were made — and why.

The cuts affected divisions across Disney, though marketing was hit especially hard. CEO Josh D'Amaro told staffers on Tuesday that the company decided to "streamline" its enterprise marketing and brand groups to "serve consumers in an even more connected way."

Asad Ayaz, Disney's chief brand and marketing officer, gave employees more context about the changes in a memo on Wednesday night.

"Over the past few months, the marketing leadership team and I have been working together to design a thoughtful go-forward structure for our unified marketing organization that will unlock innovation, reduce complexity, and build critical capabilities," Ayaz said in the memo, which was obtained by Business Insider.

Alan Bergman, Disney's studios chief, echoed that in a separate memo on Wednesday, writing that the "unified marketing structure" is "one of the larger transformations taking place" at Disney.

In Ayaz's memo, he added that Disney's leadership studied how marketing is changing "to meet the disruption happening across all industries" and build an organization that's "nimble and modern."

After that review, Ayaz said Disney "found overlap in some roles and functions," adding that some remaining staffers have been offered "new roles or responsibilities to ensure we have the necessary capabilities to take us into the future."

Ayaz was promoted this year to become Disney's chief marketing and brand officer, a newly created role that was designed to consolidate its marketing across its entertainment, sports, and experiences divisions. He previously served as the company's chief brand officer.

At the time of Ayaz's promotion in January, former CEO Bob Iger said Disney needed a companywide role to ensure "brand consistency."

Some Hulu staffers were affected by this week's layoffs. Disney has been integrating Hulu into Disney+ to build a one-stop shop for streaming subscribers that it hopes will boost engagement.

Besides growing the streaming business, Disney also must win back Wall Street by keeping the parks business humming while preserving declining profits in its traditional TV business.

Read the full memo from Ayaz below:

Team,

By now, you are aware that organizational changes have been taking place across several areas of the company, including marketing. It has been a hard week, and I know news like this can be very difficult. That is why I want to take this opportunity to be transparent about what is changing in marketing and why.

Over the past few months, the marketing leadership team and I have been working together to design a thoughtful go-forward structure for our unified marketing organization that will unlock innovation, reduce complexity, and build critical capabilities. We carefully considered how the global marketing function is evolving to meet the disruption happening across all industries so we could design an org that is nimble and modern — fueling world-class creativity and serving consumers and fans in an even more connected and seamless way.

While we have made a great deal of progress, especially with an effort of this scale, there has also been a reduction in certain roles across some of our teams. This difficult news has now been communicated to all employees who have been impacted this week.

As part of this work, we found overlap in some roles and functions and identified new skills we need going forward. This means that some team members have also been offered new roles or responsibilities to ensure we have the necessary capabilities to take us into the future.

I am mindful of the real, personal impact changes like these can have. We are working closely with our HR partners to ensure that those impacted this week are being supported through this process, and I appreciate everyone's patience and sensitivity as we support our friends and trusted colleagues through this time.

Please know that I am incredibly proud of the exceptional work this team does every day — and today's changes take nothing away from the accomplishments of everyone who has been part of our marketing team.

I remain confident in the strength of our team and what comes next. Thank you for your continued work, your professionalism, and your compassion for one another as we navigate this transformative time together. Please reach out to me, your leader, or your HR partner if you need anything.

Asad

• The S&P 500 is back at record highs after recovering from the impacts of the Iran war.
• Market vet Jeffery Hirsch says the moves have followed a pattern that's emerged in the Trump years.
• The cycle indicates that the S&P 500 will gain into year-end after hitting a spring bottom.

The TACO trade isn't the only Trump-era trading pattern that investors should be keeping tabs on.

Jeffery Hirsch, a longtime market strategist and the editor of the Stock Trader's Almanac, flagged a seasonal cycle in stock moves during Trump's presidency, outlining how the 2026 market action fits into the pattern and what it might signal about what's to come.

"One pattern stands out: during Trump Presidency Years, the S&P 500 has tended to carve out a spring bottom in late March to early April before staging meaningful advances into year-end."

The S&P 500 on Wednesday hit a record high, erasing its wartime losses and rallying even as peace talks have yet to resume and as oil prices remain elevated.

The end of March marked the S&P 500's closing low, with the two-week ceasefire agreement fueling a rapid relief rally.

Geopolitical is still high despite the rally, with failed in-person talks and an unclear path to a permanent peace deal, prompting some on Wall Street to warn there's more pain ahead.

Yet, the Trump Presidency seasonal pattern signals the rally has legs, Hirsch argues.

"Markets don't wait for clarity — they bottom in uncertainty," he wrote. "The S&P 500 has erased all of its Iran war losses. With sentiment reset, positioning lighter, and volatility elevated, the backdrop is in place for a near-term recovery."

The strategist noted that the conflict in the Middle East may have pulled forward the typical market weakness seen in midterm election years, creating an opportunity for investors.

"Geopolitical risks and energy markets remain key variables, but the market has absorbed these shocks better than many expected," Hirsch said.

"Growth is holding, labor is solid, and the Fed is neutral. If diplomacy continues to progress, the setup for equities into year-end looks increasingly constructive," he added.

• In 2021, I won the New York City affordable-housing lottery after applying over 50 times.
• My rent-stabilized $2,295 one-bedroom apartment was perfect when it was just my dog and me.
• Almost five years (and one husband and child) later, it feels cramped, but I still can't give it up.

On an otherwise uneventful day in July 2021, I got an email that ended up changing my life.

Two months earlier, I'd applied on New York City's housing lottery website for a chance to live in a newly built apartment complex in a neighborhood I could never afford under normal circumstances.

I didn't think much about it because the system itself is kind of mindless: You fill out your income details one time when first setting up your profile and then simply hit "Apply" whenever a building in your income bracket comes up.

By that point, I'd applied to dozens of buildings and none had ever panned out. My randomly assigned log numbers — which determine the order in which leasing agents contact applicants — were always in the five- or six-digit range. In other words, hopeless.

After all, winning the NYC affordable-housing lottery is a numbers game. In 2024, a Department of Housing Preservation and Development representative told BI that the department receives about 3.5 million applications a year and that, on average, there are 450 applications per rental unit.

I hadn't even bothered to check my log number for this building before I was called for it — it turned out I was number 41. I waved off my then-boyfriend's suggestion that we go to the beach and instead spent the Fourth of July collecting all the documents required to verify my income.

A week later, I was contacted to view an apartment. Three months after that, I was moving into the high-rise building of my dreams.

Through the program, I snagged a one-bedroom apartment in a coveted neighborhood for $2,295

At the time, I was living in a large rent-stabilized one-bedroom in Brooklyn for $1,250 — it was a steal, and I figured I would stay there forever.

So the lottery apartment's rent ($2,295), though supposedly "affordable" for those of us making 130% of the Area Median Income (or "AMI"), made me queasy. Technically, I could afford it, but it meant slashing my disposable income and ability to save.

But when I looked at the details, it was clearly the right move: This would be by far the best neighborhood and nicest apartment I'd ever lived in.

It would also be the first time in my entire life I'd ever had a washer, dryer, and dishwasher in my home, let alone access to building amenities like a pool, coworking spaces, and even an arcade.

My Brooklyn apartment, on the flip side, was in an unkempt pre-war building where the only "amenity" to speak of was a heating pipe that whistled so loudly it sounded like a plane was taking off in my bedroom.

Despite a price that's probably eye-watering to people who live outside the city, the new 800-square-foot apartment was also a great deal for its location.

At the time I signed my lease, the median asking rent for a one-bedroom in that neighborhood was at least $1,000 more.

For 2021 Caralynn, it was perfect. Then, that boyfriend became my husband — and a permanent resident of the apartment — and shortly after, my one-person, one-dog household became three people and one dog when our daughter was born in late 2022.

The apartment still worked for us during the infant stage after we made a few minor modifications and I forced my maximalist self to adopt a minimalist perspective.

But now, with a toddler and a whole lot of toys, things are feeling decidedly less spacious.

Over the years, we've had to get creative with the space

Since my daughter was born, the apartment has gone through every conceivable configuration.

We've trialed dine-in kitchen setups versus separate dining spaces in the living area and tried creating a tiny bedroom for my daughter in my onetime office nook instead of all sharing one bedroom.

My husband and I also once carved out part of the living room as our sleeping space — a pseudo second bedroom — to give our daughter the bedroom, too.

I've spent countless hours researching Murphy beds. The only place we haven't tried putting our couch is on the ceiling.

Still, giving this apartment up for a modicum more space feels foolish. When I moved, it wasn't with the idea that this was the neighborhood where I'd raise my kids, but it's actually one of the most family-friendly areas in the city.

We have great schools, tons of parks, access to multiple subway lines, and even a Trader Joe's practically at our doorstep.

And while the crowded space is occasionally overstimulating for me and my late-diagnosed ADHD, the apartment is still workable.

My toddler, for one, has no interest in personal space and much prefers co-sleeping with us anyway. The wheels are constantly turning in my head about how we can best repurpose the space when she does want her own room, though.

At this time, moving out just doesn't feel like a real option

It's not in the cards right now to move to a two-bedroom in our building or elsewhere in our neighborhood. Because our apartment is rent-stabilized, increases with each lease renewal are capped: Our monthly rent today is just $2,550.

Comparatively, the median market rate for one-bedrooms in our area has soared to over $4,000 a month — and over $6,000 for two-bedrooms.

Sure, we could leave New York City entirely — and we've discussed it — but that would mean giving up all the things we've come to value most, like easy access to endless entertainment and culture.

So, I'm still applying to the affordable-housing lottery here. To date, I've submitted 188 applications.

I've qualified for a number of apartments, but none have panned out, either because they're not much bigger than our current unit or because they're in neighborhoods we don't like as much.

I have no idea whether lightning will strike twice for us and we'll qualify for a bigger, better unit in our neighborhood before our household income exceeds the maximum for our bracket.

For now, I've resigned myself to sitting with two competing feelings: immense gratitude that we've gotten to live relatively affordably in an incredible place for as long as we have, and stress that a time is coming where this won't actually be tenable.

• As a culinary judge, I look for high-quality snacks, regional produce, and other staples at Aldi.
• I like buying items that contain few or no food additives, like the Specially Selected fruit spread.
• Aldi's Emporium Selection Champagne cheese and Specially Selected baguettes are great.

Over the past few years, I've evaluated hundreds of high-quality products as a judge for the Specialty Foods Association, a membership-based organization for people involved in the specialty foods industry.

Although I've had some seriously high-end bites, I can still appreciate the great, affordable groceries sold at retailers like Aldi.

Here are a few of my favorite things to buy at the budget grocer.

Specially Selected artisan French baguettes are great to have on hand.

Aldi's bread selection spans the better part of an aisle, but the Specially Selected extra-long parbaked French baguette stands out.

Give it 10 minutes in a 400-degree oven, and it emerges with a crusty exterior and a doughy interior. When I don't feel like heating up the oven, I break the bread into halves and bake it in my countertop toaster oven.

I like the French baguettes for their versatility because you can cut them lengthwise to build sandwiches, slice them on the bias for crostini, or use them to make your own garlic bread.

Each Specially Selected baguette is about $2.

The Emporium Selection Champagne cheese has a unique flavor profile.

Aldi carries a respectable range of cheeses, like bakeable brie, halloumi-style "fries," and Gruyere from Switzerland. The chain also sells seasonal offerings, from Emporium Selection balsamic-onion to black-truffle cheddar.

One of my favorites has been the Emporium Selection Champagne cheddar. The English cheese has the pleasant aroma that many brands of Champagne have, and I can even taste the bubbly in it.

I also like the novelty of Champagne-infused cheddar because it reminds me of how the pricey beverage pairs well with humble snacks like potato chips.

For under $5, it's a lively addition to any cheese plate.

Spice up cheese boards or toast with the Specially Selected fruit spreads.

Aldi sells Specially Selected fruit spreads year-round, though some flavors are seasonal.

These work well with cheese boards, on toast, and in baked goods. I like the seasonal sour-cherry flavor, which is sweeter than it is tart.

This one is imported from Germany, and I look for European-imported products since I notice they tend to be made with ingredients I can recognize.

The Specially Selected cheese crisps pack flavor and crunch.

Layered like buttery puff pastry and baked twice to a firm, gratifying crunch, the Specially Selected cheese crisps with Asiago and cheddar are the ultimate nibble.

Loaded with cheesy flavor, they make a fine companion to a pre-dinner cocktail or a bowl of tomato soup. The crisps are made with real flour, butter, and cheese, along with rosemary extract, which helps preserve freshness.

These seasonal bites are typically stacked in the artisan cracker section in the wintertime.

Baker's Corner sweetened condensed milk makes velvety coffee drinks and desserts.

I keep sweetened condensed milk in the house for when I have a hankering for Vietnamese iced coffee. It's simply milk and sugar with more than half of the liquid evaporated, but it adds a creamy texture and stability to desserts like Key lime pie or tres leches cake.

Aldi sells a few different types of sweetened condensed milk. Baker's Corner, one of its house brands, sells a 14-ounce can for under $2.

Once it's opened, I transfer the leftover sweetened condensed milk into another container to keep in the fridge for up to a month.

The Simply Nature organic multigrain tortilla chips can be part of a filling snack or side.

The Simply Nature organic multigrain tortilla chips are great with salsa if you want a filling snack or side.

The corn-flour tortilla chips are surprisingly hearty and flecked with flax and other seeds.

An 8-¼-ounce bag of chips costs around $2.

I like that Simply Nature thick-and-chunky salsa is loaded with vegetables.

The Simply Nature thick and chunky salsa contains visible pieces of chopped tomato, peppers, onion, and garlic. I've tried the medium-level heat, and much to my delight, it was hotter than I expected.

In the past, I've been able to snag a 16-ounce jar of salsa for $2.15.

Simply Nature chia seeds are useful for vegan cooking and baking.

I think the Simply Nature chia seeds, which are high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, are a great addition to almost any diet.

When soaked in liquid for at least 20 minutes, chia seeds develop a gelatinous coating that makes them easy to turn into puddings.

I use them to replace eggs in vegan recipes: A tablespoon of chia seeds in 3 tablespoons of water is equal to one egg.

They also work as a binder for ground, plant-based proteins and baking recipes.

Pueblo Lindo dried beans are a good pantry staple.

At Aldi, I'll grab a bag or two of whatever dried beans I find. On this trip, I grabbed Pueblo Lindo black beans.

High in fiber and protein and free of fat and sodium, dried beans can be used in a variety of recipes. I buy the dried kind since canned beans may have added salt.

I always check dried beans for pebbles or other detritus and rinse them well. To rehydrate, I do a quick soak: bring them to a boil, cover, remove from heat, let them sit for an hour, and drain.

I snagged some organic Bartlett pears from Aldi's produce section.

Aldi's produce aisle is always worth looking through for a regional specialty or sale. This time, I found a 2-pound sack of organic Northwest US Bartlett pears.

The pears looked like autumn in a bowl on my kitchen table, waiting to be eaten in salads or as dessert.

The sack of pears cost me under $5.

Baby portabella mushrooms can be turned into a tasty side dish.

Aldi sometimes has great mushrooms available, too.

On this trip, I picked up an 8-ounce box of locally grown baby portabella mushrooms.

I used the mushrooms to make one of my favorite side dishes by slicing them and stir-frying them with a dash of oil, soy sauce, and honey until the liquid reduced to a glaze.

The baby portabella mushrooms cost me less than $2.

Keep reading Aldi diaries like this one.

This story was originally published in 2023 and most recently updated on April 16, 2026.

• Bonds are flashing a sign that inflation could be a big problem again soon, Albert Edwards says.
• The famed permabear pointed to the rise in Treasury yields as markets price in hotter price growth.
• Headline inflation could rise well into the double digits, he estimated.

The bond market is sending a bad signal about inflation, according to one Wall Street permabear.

Albert Edwards, a global strategist at Société Générale, said he believes bonds are flashing a worrying signal about the economic backdrop and the outlook for stocks. That's because US Treasurys look like they're slipping into a secular bear market — for bonds, that means prices are falling while yields rise — something that could hint that inflation is on track to rise to its highest level in nearly half a century, Edwards wrote in a note to clients on Thursday.

"Inflation is heading up to 1970s levels, not (only) because of the US/Iran war, but due to the ominous secular themes of fiscal dominance and political weakness," Edwards said, referring to how higher national debt levels are inflationary and make investors more cautious about holding government bonds.

Edwards pointed to the recent rise in Treasury yields, a sign that demand for government bonds is already cooling as investors eye the economic impact of the Iran war and price in hotter inflation.

The 10-year US Treasury yield was around 4.28% on Thursday, up 32 basis points since the start of the Iran war.

The 2-year and 30-year Treasury yields have also recently hit levels not seen since the Great Financial Crisis, Edwards said.

He added that he expects headline inflation to rise between 10% and 20% on a yearly basis, in line with its highs 50 years ago. US inflation peaked at around 11% in the mid-1970s, then fell and rose again to 13% in 1980.

"Despite recent US bond stability, we are in a global secular bond bear market," he later added, suggesting that rates would stay higher for longer due to inflation risks.

Inflation has been top-of-mind for investors over the last month, who have been carefully tracking the rise in oil prices amid the Iran war. The central fear is that higher energy costs could feed into price increases in other goods, fanning inflation and slowing economic growth.

A bear market in bonds also sours the outlook for risk assets, Edwards said, pointing to the potential impact of higher rates on stocks in particular.

Rate cuts, which are generally bullish for risk assets like stocks, have come into question for the rest of 2026 amid inflationary concerns stemming from the Iran war. Markets see a 64% chance that the Fed will leave rates unchanged from current levels by the end of this year.

Edwards, who describes himself as an "uber bear," has long held a bearish view of markets, even as risk assets rallied to record highs in recent years.

• NY lawmakers plan to tax the financial elite's second homes if they live outside the city.
• This law would apply to roughly 13,000 units worth over $5 million.
• NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani hopes the policy will bring in $500 million to fund public services.

If you happen to own a multi-million dollar vacation home in New York City, lawmakers are gearing up to increase your tax bill.

Gov. Kathy Hochul unveiled a plan this week for a pied-à-terre tax in NYC, which would tax property owners who primarily live outside the city but have a local home worth over $5 million. Often, these individuals don't pay city or state taxes because their official address isn't in NYC. The proposal, which is backed by Mayor Zohran Mamdani, could mark his first step toward taxing the city's financial elite in conjunction with state leadership. Mamdani said it will raise at least $500 million for the city.

"When I ran for mayor, I said I was going to tax the rich," Mamdani said in a video posted Wednesday evening. "Well, today we're taxing the rich." He stood in front of billionaire Ken Griffin's $238 million Central Park South apartment, explaining that the Citadel CEO and other wealthy property owners who split their time between the city and elsewhere "reap the huge financial rewards of owning property in, dare I say, the greatest city in the world. And most of the time these units are sitting empty." Griffin primarily lives in Miami.

Both the governor and mayor hope a tax on the elite's second homes could help narrow the city's wealth gap and fund their affordability agendas, including policies focused on housing and childcare.

"The kind of thing we need is more taxes on the rich people, in one way or another. And I'd certainly define people who own homes that they're not living in as part of the rich," Morris Pearl, the chair of Patriotic Millionaires, a pro-wealth-tax group of wealthy Americans, and a former managing director of BlackRock, said. "So I think that's actually a pretty good proxy for rich people."

New York lawmakers have unsuccessfully proposed a pied-à-terre tax before

It's difficult to determine exactly how many homes would be affected by this law. The most recent New York City Housing and Vacancy Survey found that there were about 59,000 units that were "held for seasonal, recreational, or occasional use" in 2023 out of 3.7 million total units in the city. That figure, however, does not capture the value of those homes, and results may be skewed based on whether secondary units were occupied at the time of the survey.

Hochul has estimated that around 13,000 units would be subject to the tax; Jonathan Miller, a real estate appraiser, told Business Insider that he estimates around 12,000 to 15,000 units might be eligible.

Around 47% of the city's projected revenue is set to come from property and real estate taxes; a slowdown in the high-end housing market could take a toll on the city's bottom line. "What I find is that that will dent demand for higher-end property," Miller said. "I don't think it's a dramatic impact; it will impact it, but not significantly. And I also don't think that it'll cascade down to lower price points."

The new proposal could amount to a momentary blip in those collections and in higher earners' willingness to buy, but will ultimately likely be baked into the market, according to Miller.

"I'm confident that this isn't the beginning of the end for New York," Miller said.

A pied-à-terre tax has been pitched in New York several times. Current Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal, who spearheaded efforts to enact a similar tax in 2014 and 2019, told Business Insider that, "If you can afford a $5 million second home, you should appropriately contribute to the subways, schools, and public services that protect and sustain your investment." Major cities like Vancouver and Paris have imposed taxes on second residences in recent years, too.

Mamdani reiterated his support for a pied-à-terre tax at an event in Midtown Manhattan on Wednesday morning. The room was filled with journalists, supporters, and CUNY students as the mayor and economists Gabriel Zucman and Joseph Stiglitz discussed inequality and tax equity. Mamdani said that the proposal would tax "the super wealthy who can purchase properties and use them to store their wealth, to benefit from New York City's real estate market, but not have to pay back into that same city."

Hochul's support marks a relatively rare moment of agreement between the city and state on taxes. So far, the mayor's wealth-related tax plans, which would need sign-on from Hochul and Albany, have been met with mixed reception; Hochul has been tepid on a wholesale increase for the wealthy and corporations.

There are, of course, still looming budget issues. Mamdani has also said that, without backing from Albany to raise more revenue, he might turn to raising property taxes — what he's said would be "a tool of very last resort."

"The biggest takeaway I have is that $500 million is a significant chunk of money," Fiscal Policy Institute acting executive director and chief economist Emily Eisner, told BI. "When I hear $500 million, I don't sneer at it, but it's not the size that the mayor needs to fill the budget gap or fund the broader affordability agenda that he campaigned on and is committed to achieving."

The proposal does mark some common tax ground among the lawmakers, and a potential move toward chipping away at at least some of the deficit looming over the city.

"I believe everyone has a role to play in contributing to our city," Mamdani said. "And some a little bit more than others."

• I felt pressure to give up my last name when I got married, so I compromised and hyphenated.
• Rigid institutional policies and strict corporate safeguards make a hyphenated name a liability.
• Twenty-five years later, I know more about identity, and I'm letting go of the hyphen.

As I stood in the clerk's office applying for a marriage license, I faced three options: no name change (keep mine), name change (assume his), or hyphenate (enjoy both).

It seemed like a simple task; check one and move on. But as my pen hovered, I realized my decision held meaning.

Hadn't the women in my family always given up the name they'd carried since birth? I searched my memory for one rebel ancestor who'd kept her name. Minutes ticked by, but I recalled not one. I'd be the first.

Hesitation at the eleventh hour surprised me. Though we'd dated for five years and been engaged for eight months, I hadn't considered what it would mean to replace my Spanish name with a German one. Now, form in front of me and expectations echoing in my head, I was forced to choose. My refusal to quickly "Check one" sent my mind racing.

"His family expects it. Your family expects it. He expects it," I told myself, but I wondered what I expected of myself.

Aiming for a "win-win," I scribbled in the box for "Hyphenate." I thought this would be the perfect way to honor both families.

I didn't realize I was creating an unwieldy name that would mean jumping through extra hoops for decades.

Last names shape identity

My college roommate's Chinese last name was the basis for a large association that unified extended family, friends, and even strangers in a shared sense of community. I admired how a name could pull together so many people. And yet, I understood the power of connection to culture when you live in a vast melting pot.

Living with a name that reflected my heritage had opened doors for me, helped me form bonds, and challenged assumptions about what Latin people look like. It let others see me as a resource — someone who could help them navigate language barriers.

Looking back, it made life easier; people knew which box to put me in, even if I preferred those boxes didn't exist.

Institutions are challenged by hyphenated names

The difficulties began immediately. My legal name didn't fit on a driver's license. What appeared instead: first and middle initials followed by the long, hyphenated surname crammed onto one line. The result: lots of side-eye, questioning looks, requests for extra ID because "it just doesn't look right." Anytime I needed to prove my identity, I braced for confusion. A passport displaying my full name became a necessity to prove I was who I said I was.

In a society where women have historically been — and continue to be — expected to assume their spouse's last name, I wondered why this wasn't easier. Many institutions struggled with the hyphen. Some, like credit card companies, mashed the surnames together, creating a new, unrecognizable version. Others suggested I use his name for reliable recovery of information. Still others processed my information their own way, without discussion, leading to endless: "Can you try this name? How about this one?" I became an expert at reciting all the possible permutations.

At times, I struggled to access important documents — like graduate school transcripts, Social Security ID, tax filings, retirement accounts, and even basic medical care because my IDs didn't match.

Lessons I learned

Showing up with a German last name when you're a brown-skinned Latina confuses people. Latin-German last name? Even more so. I can predict the double-take and inevitable re-verification every time my name is called. I've heard "I thought you would be blonde" more times than I can count. And at Latin events, few people assume I speak Spanish when I use my German last name.

I've now been married for 26 years. I understand what my younger, about-to-be-married self was trying to protect when she selected the "Hyphenate" box, and yet I've grown in my understanding of identity.

I've learned a name doesn't define who I am, where I belong, or where I come from. I will always carry my heritage. More importantly, I've learned to advocate for myself.

Today, I'm deciding to change my name yet again. I'm losing the hyphen and assuming his German last name. To honor the life and beautiful partnership we've created — and, yes, to make navigating bureaucracy a little easier.

Ironically, after my son's DNA test revealed a higher-than-expected amount of German ancestry, I discovered I descend from German royalty. Never saw that one coming. But it does make the transition easier. Plus, it gives me a fascinating story to tell as I build the next chapter in an identity that, hyphen or not, is uniquely mine.