Take a step back in time and enjoy footage from past newscasts showing shoppers during the holiday rush in the late 70s, 80s and mid-90s. (Credit: FOX) Shoppers are ready to drop some cash this holiday season as total spending this year is expected to be at least $24 billion higher than last year, according to the National Retail Federation. Online shopping is still the biggest hit, but in-person shopping is making a comeback and the NRF predicts nearly half of all shoppers will head to department and discount stores to knock out their shopping lists. Store owners at the Galleria at Sunset in Henderson, Nevada, said it just gets busier each year. CYBER MONDAY SPENDING HITS RECORD $13.3 BILLION " Black Friday was great. We hit goal. We actually passed goal, so that was good. It's better than last year. So that was good for us. Everybody always likes to try on stuff, too. So I think that's what keeps the malls open," said Bring it Back owner Brandon Nova. Shoppers carry Macy's and Nordstrom bags at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek, California on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. (Credit: Paul Morris/Bloomberg via Getty Images Some spots at the Galleria at Sunset are seeing a flood of visitors, especially during the holiday season. Store owners and employee said the customers want that in-person experience. SENDING HOLIDAY GIFTS? HERE ARE THE DEADLINES TO GET THEM OUT IN TIME " Most of the families have the reason to come here and make their kids come here. This is the big reason for them, you know, to come to the mall," said Crazy Bungee owner Duygu Beg. STOP OVERSPENDING OVER THE HOLIDAYS AND START THE NEW YEAR OFF FINANCIALLY STRONG The mall's general manager said it hasn’t been this busy since the pandemic. "I would say since COVID, it's been the first holiday season where ... we're feeling the holiday spirit. The customers, you can just feel that they're happy to be out shopping, happy to be out, you know, experiencing the holiday season," said Galleria at Sunset general manager Heather Cox. There has been a huge rebound in in-person shopping over the last four years as consumers start to enjoy the social aspect of going to the mall again, according to the NRF. "We, as consumers, don't shop just because we need something," said Mark Mathews, NRF's executive director of research. "One of the main reasons that people go out is for deals, but it's also to be with family and friends and be engaged and a fun activity. And for a lot of people, shopping is a fun activity. So, you know, I don't think we're going to ever see an end of in-store shopping." Gift cards are the most popular item on people’s wish lists this year, followed by clothes and accessories, then books and other media, according to the NRF. Find more updates on this story at FOXBusiness.com.
U.S. stocks traded mostly higher toward the end of trading, with the S&P 500 gaining around 0.5% on Tuesday. The Dow traded up 0.05% to 44,759.66 while the NASDAQ rose 0.59% to 19,166.93. The S&P 500 also rose, gaining, 0.47% to 6,015.37. Check This Out: Jim Cramer: Linde Is A ‘Terrific’ Company, Sees Another Stock Up 75% As ‘Not Done’ Leading and Lagging Sectors Utilities shares jumped by 1.1% on Tuesday. In trading on Tuesday, materials shares fell by 0.7%. Top Headline Dick's Sporting Goods Inc. DKS reported upbeat earnings for its third quarter. The company posted third-quarter adjusted earnings per share of $2.75, beating the street view of $2.68. Quarterly sales of $3.06 billion (+0.5%) outpaced the analyst consensus of $3.03 billion. Dick's Sporting now expects FY24 earnings per share to be between $13.65 and $13.95, up from the previous forecast of $13.55 to $13.90, compared to the consensus estimate of $13.88. The company sees FY24 net sales of $13.2 billion to $13.3 billion versus the $13.25 billion consensus and the prior view of $13.1 billion to 13.2 billion Equities Trading UP Poseida Therapeutics, Inc. PSTX shares shot up 226% to $9.32 after the company announced it will be acquired by Roche in a $1.5 billion deal, with stockholders receiving up to $13 per share in cash. Shares of Hesai Group HSAI got a boost, surging 64% to $7.78 after the company reported better-than-expected third-quarter sales results. Embecta Corp. EMBC shares were also up, gaining 33% to $19.13 after the company reported better-than-expected fourth-quarter financial results and issued FY25 adjusted EPS guidance above estimates. Equities Trading DOWN Alector, Inc. ALEC shares dropped 35% to $2.5650 after the company announced that the INVOKE-2 Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of AL002 in individuals with early Alzheimer’s disease failed to meet its primary endpoint. Shares of Leslie’s, Inc. LESL were down 33% to $2.37 after the company reported worse-than-expected quarterly adjusted EPS and sales. Kohl’s Corporation KSS was down, falling 17% to $15.20 after the company reported worse-than-expected third-quarter results, cut its FY24 EPS guidance, and projected a net sales decrease of 7%-8%. Commodities In commodity news, oil traded down 0.7% to $68.49 while gold traded up 0.3% at $2,626.70. Silver traded up 0.9% to $30.510 on Tuesday, while copper fell 1% to $4.1160. Euro zone European shares closed lower today. The eurozone's STOXX 600 slipped 0.57%, Germany's DAX fell 0.56% and France's CAC 40 slipped 0.87%. Spain's IBEX 35 Index fell 0.80%, while London's FTSE 100 fell 0.40%. Asia Pacific Markets Asian markets closed mostly lower on Tuesday, with Japan's Nikkei 225 falling 0.87%, Hong Kong's Hang Seng Index gaining 0.04%, China's Shanghai Composite Index falling 0.12% and India's BSE Sensex falling 0.13%. Hong Kong’s trade deficit widened to $31 billion in October from $25.8 billion in the year-ago month. Economics The FHFA house price index rose by 0.7% from the previous month for September. The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller home price index rose 4.6% year-over-year in September versus a 5.2% increase in August. U.S. building permits declined by 0.4% to an annual rate of 1.419 million in October. Sales of new single-family homes in the U.S. dipped by 17.3% to an annualized rate of 610,000 in October. Now Read This: How To Earn $500 A Month From Dell Stock Ahead Of Q3 Earnings © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.NEW YORK , Nov. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Report with the AI impact on market trends - The global flexible industrial packaging market size is estimated to grow by USD 31.82 billion from 2024-2028, according to Technavio. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 7.4% during the forecast period. Increase in demand for flexible industrial packaging from end-user industries is driving market growth, with a trend towards growing demand for biodegradable packaging alternative. However, volatility in raw material prices of flexible industrial packaging poses a challenge.Key market players include Aluflexpack AG, Amcor Plc, Anglo American plc, Berry Global Inc., Bulk Lift International LLC, Clifton Packaging Group Ltd., ePac Holdings LLC, Eskay Flexible Packaging Industries Pvt Ltd., Flexibles Industrial Packages Co., Global Pak Inc., Greif Inc., Industrial Packaging supply Inc., International Paper Co., Kiliper Corp., LC Packaging International BV, SAFEPACK Inc., Sealed Air Corp., SIG Group AG, Sonoco Products Co., and Surepak Ltd.. AI-Powered Market Evolution Insights. Our comprehensive market report ready with the latest trends, growth opportunities, and strategic analysis- View Free Sample Report PDF Key Market Trends Fueling Growth The Flexible Packaging Market is experiencing significant growth due to shifting industry preferences towards sustainable solutions. Vendors are expanding their product portfolios with eco-friendly pouches, bags, sachets, and roll stocks, incorporating properties like metal, plastic, and paper. The personal care and pharmaceutical sectors are key drivers, demanding cost-effective and strategic activities such as mergers and acquisitions. Modern FIBCs are manufactured using environmentally friendly woven PP fabric, reflecting this trend towards sustainable industrial packaging. Insights on how AI is driving innovation, efficiency, and market growth- Request Sample! Market Challenges The Flexible Packaging Market has experienced significant growth due to increasing industrialization and construction activities in emerging economies. This trend is driven by rising demand for construction, chemical, and food and beverage products. Flexible packaging solutions, including pouches, bags, sachets, and roll stocks, are crucial for efficient transportation and storage. In 2021, the global merchandise trade grew by 4%, boosting the demand for cost-effective packaging in sectors like personal care and pharmaceuticals. Strategic activities, such as mergers and acquisitions, continue to shape the packaging industry, with players investing in metal, plastic, and paper packaging technologies. Insights into how AI is reshaping industries and driving growth- Download a Sample Report Segment Overview This flexible industrial packaging market report extensively covers market segmentation by 1.1 Pouches 1.2 Wraps 1.3 Rollstock 1.4 Bags 2.1 Chemical industry 2.2 Construction industry 2.3 Food and beverages industry 2.4 Pharmaceutical industry 2.5 Others 3.1 APAC 3.2 North America 3.3 Europe 3.4 South America 3.5 Middle East and Africa 1.1 Pouches- The Flexible Packaging Market experiences continuous growth, particularly in the segments of pouches, bags, sachets, and roll stocks. This market caters to various industries, including food, personal care, and pharmaceutical sectors. Pouches, available in stand-up, spouted, and eco-friendly versions, are popular due to their adaptability, convenience, and sustainability. Bags and sachets offer similar benefits, while roll stocks provide versatility. Metal, plastic, and paper materials are commonly used in this market. Strategic activities, such as mergers and acquisitions, shape the competitive landscape. In the food industry, pouches are used for snacks, coffee, and pet food, while pharmaceutical sector relies on pouches for drugs and medical devices. Cost-effective packaging solutions are a key focus in this market. Download complimentary Sample Report to gain insights into AI's impact on market dynamics, emerging trends, and future opportunities- including forecast (2024-2028) and historic data (2018 - 2022) Market Research Overview The Flexible Industrial Packaging Market encompasses a broad range of products designed for protecting and transporting various goods. These include agrochemicals, foods, pharmaceuticals, and other industrial materials. The market is driven by several factors, such as the need for lightweight, easy-to-handle packaging solutions, increasing consumer demand for convenient and sustainable packaging, and the growing trend towards automation and digitization in manufacturing processes. Moreover, the expansion of global trade and the rise of e-commerce have fueled the demand for flexible industrial packaging. The market is segmented based on materials, applications, and regions. Key materials used in this market are polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, and biodegradable polymers. The major applications include food and beverages, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and industrial and specialty packaging. The market is expected to grow at a significant CAGR during the forecast period, driven by the increasing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly packaging solutions, the growing adoption of advanced technologies, and the expanding industrial sector in emerging economies. However, the market faces challenges such as the high cost of raw materials and the increasing competition from alternative packaging solutions. Table of Contents: 1 Executive Summary 2 Market Landscape 3 Market Sizing 4 Historic Market Size 5 Five Forces Analysis 6 Market Segmentation Type Pouches Wraps Rollstock Bags Application Chemical Industry Construction Industry Food And Beverages Industry Pharmaceutical Industry Others Geography APAC North America Europe South America Middle East And Africa 7 Customer Landscape 8 Geographic Landscape 9 Drivers, Challenges, and Trends 10 Company Landscape 11 Company Analysis 12 Appendix About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focuses on emerging market trends and provides actionable insights to help businesses identify market opportunities and develop effective strategies to optimize their market positions. With over 500 specialized analysts, Technavio's report library consists of more than 17,000 reports and counting, covering 800 technologies, spanning across 50 countries. Their client base consists of enterprises of all sizes, including more than 100 Fortune 500 companies. This growing client base relies on Technavio's comprehensive coverage, extensive research, and actionable market insights to identify opportunities in existing and potential markets and assess their competitive positions within changing market scenarios. Contacts Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media & Marketing Executive US: +1 844 364 1100 UK: +44 203 893 3200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.technavio.com/ SOURCE Technavio
ALL the way from the I'm A Celebrity jungle, GK Barry has launched a posh new jewellery collection. The influencer has been announced as UK jewellery brand Abbott Lyon’s brand-new ambassador - and her range includes the stunning necklaces she's been wearing the jungle. The collection is filled with bold statement pieces that can be personalised, and they're perfect for Christmas gifts . Before entering the jungle, GK said: “I’ve poured my heart into this collection because I wanted to create something fun that also helps you show them you care. "Personalisation is everything to me – it’s the ultimate way to express yourself.” She's been sporting the ‘Signature Name Necklace’ while in the jungle, but the collection features other stunning pieces like the designer-inspired chain Gala Pavé Initial Choker and Bracelet. READ MORE ON GK BARRY There's also the stunning 18K gold-plated choker or bracelet with a pavé crystal finish, which is available in both silver and gold. And the items are not only water, sweat and heat-resistant but are made from over 60% recycled materials. GK's range also includes the Own Way Monogram Bangle and Ring, which allows shoppers to put their own mark on the pieces of jewellery, by choosing two letters to be inscribed. The cubic zirconia gems ensure the items are a perfect accessory to add a touch of luxury to any outfit – no matter the occasion. Most read in Fabulous When asked about her collection before entering the jungle, GK Barry said: “I wanted to help find the ultimate gift this Christmas and my new Abbott Lyon collection is full of gifts they’ll love, guaranteed. "Each piece can be customised with initials because let’s be real, we’re all iconic, and jewellery should be too! “I’m obsessed with the Pavé Initial Choker and Initial Bracelet – they’re absolute game changes for making you (or them!) feel like the main character. "And don’t even get me started on the Monogram Bangle and Wide Ring – talk about statement pieces that instantly make you feel like a boss." She continued: "Whether you’re buying for someone or treating yourself to a cheeky initial necklace, these styles are total winners.” GK Barry amassed more than a million followers on TikTok in just over a year during the first UK lockdown in 2020. Grace Keeling, better known as GK Barry, is a 25-year-old social media influencer . She rose to fame during the first Covid-19 lockdown in 2020, creating a TikTok account and posting short vlogs showcasing her day-to-day life. Although she originally intended on staying low-key, she gained a large following in no time at all. By August 2020, only five months after starting her account, she had already hit 100,000 followers, reaching more than a million in just over a year. She now has over 4.5million followers across her social media platforms. After completing a degree in film studies from Nottingham Trent University, Grace furthered her education with a master’s in digital marketing. While at Nottingham Trent, she worked on the set of BBC series Doctors and the Netflix film Hood, as well as creating content for ShawMind — a charity working to promote mental health awareness. Grace is known for her podcast, named The Saving Grace Podcast. On the show she invites celebrities and influencers to have a chat about life and the latest trends, as well as any embarrassing stories from their past. In May 2024, Grace said she was dating a female footballer . Then in June it came out that the soccer star in question plays for England. The Sun revealed that Grace and Charlton Athletic striker Ella Rutherford, 24, are getting serious — they've met each other's family and holidayed together. A source exclusively told The Sun : "GK has been seeing Ella for a while but they are very much official now. "They grew even closer on holiday in Benidorm and GK has met all her family. "She's really happy and they are having so much fun together."
No. 8 Kentucky flying high ahead of Western Kentucky meetingOprah Winfrey’s hypocrisy and Robert De Niro’s suggestion that he might to leave the United States are reminders that, at the end of the day, celebrities are just people — with no greater understanding of the political landscape than anyone else. Their declarations of doom and gloom have become background noise in a country that is tired of being talked down to. For years, celebrities have wielded their platforms like megaphones, hoping to sway voters and shape public opinion. Yet, despite their drama and declarations, their political star power appears to be waning. Take Oprah Winfrey, for example, who found herself embroiled in controversy after it was revealed her organization accepted a significant amount of money to conduct a townhall with Vice President Kamala Harris. But now, critics are left asking: Did Oprah’s endorsement even move the needle for voters? Was there anyone genuinely on the fence about Harris who decided, “You know what, if Oprah’s on board, I’m in”? The fallout from this has only further eroded trust in celebrity endorsements. Then there are the celebrity escape plans. Robert De Niro, for example, suggested in 2016 he might leave the United States if Trump won. But what is truly laughable is the hypocrisy of the countless celebrities who back in 2016 shouted: “If Trump wins, I’m out of here!” Cher and others were loud and proud about their disdain for a Trump presidency. Yet, when the moment came, they stayed put — clinging to their mansions in the United States rather than booking flights to Canada. It begs the question: Why the double standard? If America under Trump is as terrible as they claim, why not leave? Or is it that, deep down, they know there is no better place to live than the United States? Celebrities threatening to leave the country have become as predictable as award-show standing ovations. These threats serve less as genuine convictions and more as performative gestures meant to energize their social media followings. Yet, the average American sees right through it. For most working-class voters, celebrity complaints ring hollow when they come from people who enjoy wealth and freedom. The idea that Robert De Niro, who became famous portraying gritty, tough-as-nails characters, feels so aggrieved by election outcomes that he might move abroad is almost comical. Moreover, the notion that these stars believe their opinions hold more weight than the average American’s is a glaring example of Hollywood’s elitism. Their proclamations of moral superiority may resonate in the echo chambers of coastal cities, but for the rest of the country, it is just noise. And here is the kicker: President-elect Donald Trump now has more followers on X than Taylor Swift, one of the biggest pop stars on the planet. The fact that Trump has outpaced the ultimate celebrity in social media influence shows that America is not as enamored with Hollywood elites as it once was. A larger question looms: Do celebrity endorsements even matter in politics anymore? Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign surely thought so when it brought in Oprah, but the results suggest otherwise. Harris’ historic unpopularity has not been bolstered by celebrity star power. In fact, it could be argued that Hollywood endorsements hurt more than they help. Many Americans see them as out of touch, self-serving or even condescending. After all, why should a multimillionaire actor or singer have any more influence over an election than a small business owner in Ohio or a teacher in Texas? As Trump’s return to the White House sends shockwaves through the liberal establishment, perhaps it is time for Hollywood to take a hard look in the mirror. Their star power no longer carries the political weight it once did. Americans are increasingly skeptical of those who claim to speak for the “common man” while living in gated communities and vacationing in the South of France. The truth is, America is not perfect, but it is far from the dystopian nightmare Hollywood claims it will become under conservative leadership. And maybe, just maybe, it is time for these celebrities to stick to what they do best — entertaining — and leave the politics to the people. Bob Rubin is the Founder and President of Rubin Wealth Advisors. Learn more about him by visiting www.rubinwa.com . The views and opinions expressed in this commentary are those of the author and do not reflect the official position of the Daily Caller News Foundation. All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporter’s byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org .