By Leah Nylen and Jaewon Kang | Bloomberg A judge blocked Kroger Co.’s $24.6 billion acquisition of Albertsons Cos. , finding the takeover would lessen competition for US grocery shoppers, in a ruling that marks a likely death knell for the deal. In a decision filed in Oregon federal court Tuesday, US District Judge Adrienne Nelson found in favor of the US Federal Trade Commission. The agency had argued that the proposed tie-up violates US antitrust law and that a division of hundreds of stores to C&S Wholesale Grocers Inc. wouldn’t do enough to replace the lost competition. Also see: Biggest question from Kroger-Albertsons trial: What’s a grocery store? “There is ample evidence that the division is not sufficient in scale to adequately compete with the merged firm and is structured in a way that will significantly disadvantage C&S as a competitor,” Nelson wrote. “The deficiencies in the disvestiture scope and structure create a risk that some or all of the divested stores will lose sales or close, as has happened in past C&S acquisitions.” Nelson’s decision is a major victory for the FTC and its outgoing Chair Lina Khan, who came under harsh criticism from conservatives and business groups for stepped-up antitrust enforcement under the Biden administration. “Today’s win protects competition in the grocery market, which will prevent prices from rising even more,” said FTC spokesperson Douglas Farrar. “This statement makes it clear that strong, reality-based antitrust enforcement delivers real results for consumers, workers, and small businesses.” Also see: Albertsons would have shed these 63 California stores A C&S Wholesale spokesperson said the company is disappointed by the court’s decision and that it looks forward to seeing how Kroger and Albertsons will determine the next steps of the proposed deal. Kroger and Albertsons didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment. Attorneys for the companies have said the acquisition would probably be called off if the judge ruled against the deal. Kroger shares jumped as much as 6.1% in New York trading on Tuesday, extending earlier gains. Albertsons slumped as much as 10%. Specific Market Nelson agreed with the FTC that supermarkets constitute a specific market, countering the companies’ argument that the market extends to online retailers like Amazon.com Inc. “Supermarkets are distinct from other grocery retailers,” Nelson wrote. “Supermarkets offer a larger selection of fresh and non-perishable items, a one-stop shopping experience that appeals to a particular consumer’s preference to meet all their grocery needs in one location, and a customer service focus with deli, bakery, meat, and other specialized departments.” The ruling marks a disappointing end to a two-year odyssey by Kroger and Albertsons, which sought to become a bigger player with a more substantial national footprint to better compete against larger, non-unionized rivals including Walmart Inc. Kroger and Albertsons agreed to combine in October 2022 in what would have been the biggest US grocery deal in history, bringing together more than 4,000 stores across 48 states and Washington, DC. Kroger will likely turn its focus back to improving and investing in its existing network of about 2,750 stores. Albertsons, on the other hand, could emerge again as a deal target, but is expected in the near term to invest in its roughly 2,270 stores and technology. The proposed deal has been a political hot potato, drawing pushback from elected officials, union groups and consumer advocacy firms. The companies vowed to spend $1 billion to cut prices, $1.3 billion to improve store conditions and $1 billion to raise worker wages and benefits following the deal. The FTC has increased antitrust enforcement under the Biden administration, though the results in court have been mixed. The FTC lost a challenge to Microsoft Corp.’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard Inc. and won against Illumina Inc. over its purchase of startup Grail and against Tapestry Inc.’s planned $8.5 billion acquisition of Capri Holdings Inc. Arguments The companies and the agency fought their case in court for three weeks over the summer in Oregon, as grocery inflation came back into the political spotlight ahead of the US presidential election. Grocery inflation hit a four-decade high in 2022 due to higher costs of labor, transportation and ingredients. Price increases have moderated and are expected to stay within historical ranges, though many American shoppers still say expensive groceries continue to squeeze their ability to spend. The FTC argued that the deal would harm consumers by eliminating competition on prices and quality, making the combined entity less likely to improve its services by offering flexible hours and pickup services. It said the grocers would have more leverage over workers, which would slow wage growth and worsen benefits, and that the proposed divestiture would be inadequate. The agency tried to depict Kroger and Albertsons as the most direct competitors. It said the deal would combine the two largest “traditional supermarkets” in a market that includes Walmart and Target, but does not include Amazon, Costco, Aldi and dollar stores. The companies argued that such a definition is “antiquated” and no longer describes how people shop and pointed to various changes they have made in response to newer threats. The grocers also said joining forces would help them increase market share and improve technology to compete with Amazon, Walmart and other companies. The case is Federal Trade Commission v. Kroger Co., 24-cv-00347, US District Court, District of Oregon (Portland). Related Articles Retail | Fear of Trump tariffs sending Americans into debt as pantry stockpiling rises Retail | Costco’s popular Kirkland diapers shifting suppliers Retail | Cyber Monday shoppers expected to set a record on the year’s biggest day for online shopping Retail | SunFed cucumbers and Costco eggs recalled due to potential salmonella contamination Retail | Gifting on a budget: 5 secrets to being generous without going brokeMichigan diesel engine manufacturer to create 436 jobs with $285M expansionCataracts – does that sea seem just as blue?The concept of smart homes has taken the world by storm, and India is no exception. With advancements in technology and an increasing demand for convenience, the market for smart home devices has grown exponentially. In 2025, these devices are smarter, more intuitive, and deeply integrated with our daily lives, offering solutions for security, entertainment, energy management, and more. In this blog, we explore the top 10 best smart home devices in India, helping you choose the perfect additions to make your home smarter, safer, and more efficient. Why Smart Home Devices Are Essential in 2025 Smart home devices are no longer luxuries but necessities in modern living. These gadgets simplify everyday tasks, enhance home security, and provide greater control over your surroundings. By integrating technologies like AI, IoT, and voice assistants, they empower users to create personalized and connected living spaces. The Indian market has seen a surge in smart home adoption, driven by affordable devices, better internet connectivity, and the growing importance of home automation. Top 10 Smart Home Devices in India 2025 1. Amazon Echo Show 15 The Amazon Echo Show 15 is more than a smart speaker—it’s a central hub for your smart home. With a large touchscreen, it allows you to control connected devices, watch videos, check your schedule, and even monitor your smart cameras. Alexa integration makes it intuitive and user-friendly. 2. Google Nest Hub Max A perfect combination of a smart display and home hub, the Google Nest Hub Max offers seamless control of your smart devices. It comes with a built-in camera for video calls and advanced gesture control, making it a must-have for home automation. 3. Philips Hue Smart Lighting Lighting is a key component of any smart home, and Philips Hue leads the pack. These lights can be customized to match your mood or schedule, offering millions of color options and compatibility with major smart assistants. 4. Xiaomi Mi Smart Security Camera Affordable yet feature-rich, the Xiaomi Mi Smart Security Camera offers 360-degree coverage, night vision, and AI motion detection. It’s perfect for enhancing home security without breaking the bank. 5. Samsung SmartThings Hub Samsung’s SmartThings Hub is an all-in-one solution for connecting and controlling smart devices from different brands. Its user-friendly app and compatibility with a wide range of devices make it a top pick for building a connected home ecosystem. 6. Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Combining air purification with heating and cooling, the Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool is a smart device that improves indoor air quality while keeping you comfortable. It comes with app control and real-time air quality monitoring. 7. Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P Keeping your home clean has never been easier with the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P. This smart cleaning device offers precision mapping, powerful suction, and mopping functionality, all controlled via a smartphone app. 8. August Smart Lock Pro Enhance your home’s security with the August Smart Lock Pro. This device allows you to lock and unlock your doors remotely, monitor activity, and integrate seamlessly with smart assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. 9. Wipro Smart Plug The Wipro Smart Plug is a cost-effective way to make your home smarter. It allows you to control appliances remotely, set schedules, and monitor energy consumption. This small but powerful device is perfect for automating everyday tasks. 10. Hikvision Video Doorbell The Hikvision Video Doorbell enhances your home’s security by providing real-time video feeds and two-way communication. Its motion detection and smartphone alerts ensure you never miss a visitor, even when you’re away. How to Choose the Right Smart Home Devices When investing in smart home devices, consider the following factors: 1. Compatibility Ensure the device is compatible with your existing ecosystem, whether it’s Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. 2. Ease of Use Opt for devices with intuitive apps and easy setup processes to avoid frustration. 3. Security Features With connected devices, security is paramount. Look for features like end-to-end encryption and regular firmware updates. 4. Scalability Choose devices that can grow with your needs, allowing you to expand your smart home network over time. 5. Price vs. Features Evaluate the features offered against the price to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money. Trends Shaping Smart Home Technology in 2025 The future of smart home devices lies in enhanced connectivity, personalization, and sustainability. Here are some key trends: 1. AI Integration Artificial intelligence is making smart devices more intuitive, enabling them to learn user preferences and automate tasks seamlessly. 2. Energy Efficiency With rising energy costs, devices that help monitor and reduce consumption are becoming increasingly popular. 3. Sustainability Eco-friendly smart devices made from sustainable materials are gaining traction as consumers become more environmentally conscious. 4. Interconnectivity Smart devices are now better at communicating with one another, creating unified ecosystems that work together effortlessly. 5. Health Monitoring Smart home devices are expanding into health monitoring, offering features like air quality analysis, sleep tracking, and fitness integration. The Future of Smart Homes in India India’s smart home market is set to grow rapidly in the coming years, driven by increasing awareness and the availability of affordable technology. Urban centers are leading this transformation, with homeowners embracing automation to enhance their quality of life. As more players enter the market, competition will drive innovation, resulting in devices that are more affordable, feature-rich, and accessible to the average consumer. Conclusion Smart home devices are transforming the way we live, offering unmatched convenience, efficiency, and security. The top 10 smart home devices listed above represent the best of what 2025 has to offer in India, catering to various needs and budgets. Whether you’re looking to enhance your home’s security, automate daily tasks, or simply enjoy a more connected living experience, these devices are worth considering. By embracing smart technology, you’re not just upgrading your home; you’re investing in a lifestyle that’s future-ready, sustainable, and tailored to your needs. Make the smart choice today and experience the wonders of a truly connected home!
Chinese ‘spy’ scandal isn’t Prince Andrew’s fault, source suggestsThe prime minister has labelled a new graffiti and arson attack as an "abhorrent anti-Semitic hate crime" after a spate of similar incidents across the country. Login or signup to continue reading A car was burned on Magney Street, Woollahra in Sydney's east, a suburb known for its Jewish community, in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The vehicle, two buildings and a footpath were graffitied with hate speech, NSW Police said. The perpetrators are believed to be two people of slim build, aged between 15 and 20 years, wearing face coverings and dark clothing. The graffiti on one of the buildings said 'Kill Israiel' (sic). Anthony Albanese said it was an "anti-Semitic attack". "This isn't an attack on a government, this is an attack on people because they happen to be Jewish," he told ABC radio. "This is a hate crime, it's as simple as that." Mr Albanese said the perpetrators were guilty of "abhorrent criminal behaviour". "This does not change anything that is occurring on the ground in the Middle East," he said. "This is an attack against their fellow Australians." The incident has been escalated to the Australian Federal Police, after a spate of similar incidents across the country. On Friday, the Adass Israel Synagogue at Ripponlea in Melbourne's southeast was set alight in a pre-dawn attack while a number of people were inside. The federal police have set up Operation Avalanche to investigate what was labelled a "likely" act of terrorism. Operation Avalanche will now also investigate Wednesday's incident. This is the second such incident in Woollahra, which is home to more than 7000 people, after buildings and vehicles were targeted in November. A ute was set on fire, multiple cars were graffitied and a restaurant and other buildings were graffitied with anti-Israel messages. Two men were arrested and charged over that attack. NSW Premier Chris Minns branded Wednesday's incident an act of anti-Semitism. "I'll be speaking to police this morning," he posted on social media. "They will be found and they will face the full force of the law." Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin said it was designed to terrorise Jewish Australians. "The Jewish community again wakes to scenes of terror and devastation," he said. "How long will this continue and with what horrors will it end?" Australian Associated Press DAILY Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. WEEKDAYS Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. WEEKLY The latest news, results & expert analysis. WEEKDAYS Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. WEEKLY Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. WEEKLY Love footy? We've got all the action covered. WEEKLY Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. WEEKLY Get the latest property and development news here. WEEKLY Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. WEEKDAYS Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. WEEKLY Follow the Newcastle Knights in the NRL? Don't miss your weekly Knights update. TWICE WEEKLY Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. WEEKLY Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. TWICE WEEKLY Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. AS IT HAPPENS Be the first to know when news breaks. DAILY Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! DAILY Test your skills with interactive crosswords, sudoku & trivia. Fresh daily!
Wednesday, December 25, 2024 As the Christmas travel season began to intensify, American Airlines faced significant operational challenges, including a nationwide flight grounding due to a technical issue. The disruption, which occurred on a Tuesday, was exacerbated by winter weather conditions threatening travelers’ plans across the United States. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a national ground stop, preventing planes from taking off for approximately one hour, affecting the flow of air traffic just as millions of travelers were on the move. Flight Cancellations and Delays Wreak Havoc on U.S. Air Travel In addition to the ground stop, major delays and cancellations were reported throughout the country. Flight-tracking services such as FlightAware indicated that 1,447 flights were delayed, while 28 flights were canceled due to the issues affecting American Airlines. The delays were concentrated in major hubs, particularly Dallas-Fort Worth and Charlotte, North Carolina, with Washington, New York, Chicago, and Miami experiencing fewer disruptions. The delays were part of broader travel challenges as the holiday season saw record numbers of people taking to the skies. Impact of Winter Weather on Travel Plans As the airline issues unfolded, winter weather compounded the challenges for both air and road travelers. The Pacific Northwest was hit with significant rain and snow, expected to continue into Christmas Day, while thunderstorms were forming in the South. Freezing rain affected the Mid-Atlantic region, including areas near Baltimore and Washington, D.C., and snow was reported in New York. These weather conditions added to the difficulties for travelers, many of whom were trying to reach their destinations during the busy holiday season. Travel Industry Vulnerabilities During Peak Seasons The Christmas holiday period tends to involve a prolonged wave of travel, lasting several weeks, unlike the short bursts of high traffic around Thanksgiving. However, the continuous grind of managing holiday flights over several days can place a strain on airline staff and flight crews. Even minor issues, such as a winter storm or a technical failure, can lead to significant disruptions, often snowballing into broader travel chaos. This situation was evident last December when Southwest Airlines’ operational breakdown stranded millions of passengers, and Delta faced a large-scale issue due to a technology glitch. The Challenge of Cancellations and Limited Rebooking Options During peak travel periods like Christmas, many flights are fully booked, which makes cancellations particularly disruptive. Airlines with smaller fleets or fewer routes, such as budget carriers, struggle to offer passengers alternate rebooking options. On the other hand, larger airlines like American, Delta, and United have interline agreements that allow them to place stranded passengers on other carriers’ flights. However, when cancellations occur at a larger scale, these rebooking options quickly become limited, particularly for those trying to book last-minute flights. The global nature of air travel exacerbates this issue, with international travelers facing even more hurdles as flights get canceled and rescheduled. New Refund Policies Add Complexity to the Situation This holiday season marked the first under a new rule from the U.S. Department of Transportation requiring airlines to provide automatic cash refunds for canceled or significantly delayed flights. While most passengers were previously eligible for refunds, they often had to request them. The new rule means that travelers can expect automatic compensation, which could alleviate some of the frustrations caused by cancellations. However, it also introduced challenges for both airlines and passengers as the system adjusts to this policy. Many travelers prefer to be rebooked rather than refunded during peak periods, as last-minute flights are typically far more expensive. Travel Trends and Impact on Road Travel While airline travel has seen significant disruptions, a larger portion of American travelers, around 90%, are opting to drive during the holiday season. According to AAA, road travel is at its peak, with many families choosing cars over planes to reach their destinations. Despite the potential for long delays due to road conditions and congestion, driving remains the more popular option. Gas prices remain relatively stable compared to last year, with the national average at $3.04 per gallon, down slightly from $3.13 in 2023. For electric vehicle owners, charging costs vary by state, but remain a crucial factor in trip planning. Traffic Delays and Peak Travel Days Traffic analytics firm INRIX predicted that travel times on major highways could be up to 30% longer than usual over the holidays, especially on Sunday, which is expected to be the busiest day for road travel. Cities like Boston, New York City, Seattle, and Washington D.C. are expected to experience some of the heaviest traffic, further complicating travel plans for those trying to avoid flight cancellations. A Holiday Season Marked by Challenges for Travelers As the holiday season progresses, both air and road travel face substantial hurdles. Winter weather continues to disrupt plans for millions of people, while technical failures and cancellations add strain to an already difficult travel environment. For the travel industry, these challenges highlight the vulnerability of the system during peak travel periods. However, with the right preparation and knowledge, travelers can navigate these disruptions, especially if they remain flexible with their travel plans. Key Impacts for Travelers:ANDERSON TOWNSHIP, Ohio (AP) — Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow's home was broken into during Monday Night Football in the latest home invasion of a pro athlete in the U.S., authorities said Tuesday. No one was injured in the break-in, but the home was ransacked, according to a report provided by the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office. Deputies weren't immediately able to determine what items were stolen. A person who is employed by Burrow arrived at the Anderson Township home Monday night to find a shattered bedroom window and the home in disarray. The person called their mother, and then 911 was contacted, according to the report. Deputies reached out to neighbors in an attempt to piece together surveillance footage. “Our investigators are exploring every avenue,” public information officer Kyla Woods said. The homes of Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were broken into in October. In the NBA , Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis had his home broken into Nov. 2 and Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley Jr.'s home was burglarized on Sept. 15 while he was at a Minnesota Vikings game. Portis had offered a $40,000 reward for information. Both the NFL and NBA issued security alerts to players after those break-ins, urging them to take additional precautions to secure their homes. In league memos previously obtained by The Associated Press, the NFL said homes of professional athletes across multiple sports have become “increasingly targeted for burglaries by organized and skilled groups.” And the NBA revealed that the FBI has connected some burglaries to “transnational South American Theft Groups” that are “reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices.” Some of the burglary groups have conducted extensive surveillance on targets, including attempted home deliveries and posing as grounds maintenance or joggers in the neighborhood, according to officials. AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl