March 2025 -

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24 Mar

Credit score risks grow with student loan delinquencies

Roger W. WatsonEconomy

Millions of Americans facing student loan debt are preparing for financial strain as default rates are anticipated to rise to historic heights. This alarming development may drastically affect the credit scores of over 9 million borrowers, causing widespread repercussions throughout their financial circumstances.The restarting of federal student loan payments, after a prolonged halt, is at the heart of the problem. For numerous borrowers, this increased financial pressure occurs as surging living expenses and economic unpredictability already challenge household finances. As payments resume, those unable to meet their commitments might struggle, resulting in missed installments and, ultimately, delinquencies.The resumption of federal…

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14 Mar

The early days of Twitter: An unforeseen adventure

Roger W. WatsonScience and Technology

In its early stages, a modest team of innovative individuals set the stage for what would one day be Twitter. They were unaware that they were crafting a platform that would revolutionize how the world communicates. The initial straightforward idea in the technology sector rapidly grew into something much more extensive than anyone could have foreseen. For those involved in its creation, Twitter's ascent has been as unexpected as it has been significant.When a small group of creative minds laid the foundation for what would become Twitter, they had no idea they were building a platform that would transform global…

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14 Mar

Nuits de Fourvière 2025: Where history and art unite

Roger W. WatsonCulture and Entertainment

During the summer months, Lyon’s Nuits de Fourvière festival turns the ancient Roman amphitheaters of the city into a lively platform for an array of music, theater, dance, and circus shows. Known as one of Europe’s top cultural festivals, it has evolved into a symbol of artistic creativity, attracting spectators worldwide. Looking ahead to 2025, Nuits de Fourvière is preparing an impressive lineup with a rich variety of performances designed to both captivate and inspire.What sets the Nuits de Fourvière apart is its unique location. Held in the historical theaters of Fourvière, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the festival merges…

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13 Mar

PepsiCo acquires prebiotic soda maker Poppi in a $2 billion deal

Roger W. WatsonInvestments and Business

By completing the acquisition of Poppi for almost $2 billion, PepsiCo demonstrates the rising consumer demand for healthier drink choices. This strategic decision underlines PepsiCo's dedication to broadening its presence in the health-oriented beverage sector and expanding its range of products beyond conventional sodas and snacks.Established only a few years back, Poppi has swiftly captured the attention of health-minded buyers looking for substitutes to sugary beverages. The brand stands out for its unique prebiotic sodas containing apple cider vinegar and other components thought to support digestive health. With eye-catching packaging and a robust social media influence, Poppi has gained popularity…

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13 Mar

Investors weigh policy impacts on market movements

Roger W. WatsonInvestments and Business

The U.S. stock market saw a significant rise lately, as investors analyzed new economic information alongside the potential effects of measures implemented during Donald Trump’s presidency. This rejuvenated confidence in the markets underscores the intricate relationship between economic factors and political events, both of which are essential in influencing investor attitudes.The surge in U.S. stocks is mainly due to investor responses to important economic indicators hinting that the economy might be stabilizing. Data on employment numbers, consumer expenditure, and industrial production have created a mixed yet hopeful outlook. Although certain industries still encounter difficulties, others display resilience, leading market players…

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13 Mar

New smartphone project by Google and MTA to address subway issues

Roger W. WatsonScience and Technology

The New York City Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has partnered with Google for a groundbreaking pilot project designed to enhance the dependability of its outdated subway network. Utilizing Google's smartphone technology, this initiative aims to detect and resolve track problems proactively to prevent service interruptions. Called "TrackInspect," the program marks a major advancement in incorporating artificial intelligence and contemporary technology into public transportation.Beginning in September 2024 and wrapping up in January 2025, the pilot project involved equipping certain subway cars with Google Pixel smartphones. These phones were responsible for gathering sound and vibration information to identify possible track issues. This…

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12 Mar

Impact of Falling Stocks on Wealthy Spending

Roger W. WatsonEconomy

The recent drop in stock market performance is overshadowing a major component of the U.S. economy: expenditure by wealthy households. As affluent consumers have traditionally represented a substantial share of consumer spending, a sustained market slump could create ripple effects reaching far beyond Wall Street. Economists and market analysts are attentively observing how shrinking investment portfolios could impact the actions of high-income individuals, who significantly contribute to sustaining the overall economy.The stock market, commonly regarded as an indicator of economic confidence, has entered a phase of instability, making numerous investors apprehensive. Affluent households, with net worths frequently linked to investments,…

11 Mar

Mijael Attias on optimizing investment value through relevance

Roger W. WatsonInvestments and Business

In our rapidly evolving world, where financial markets undergo frequent changes and rules shift swiftly, investing has grown more intricate. What was once a straightforward decision, with limited financial products, now involves a diverse array of choices, including stocks, bonds, cryptocurrencies, and digital assets. Hence, grasping the factors affecting the markets and crafting solid, varied investment approaches is essential.Investing goes beyond merely purchasing financial assets; it represents a strategic choice. It requires establishing clear goals, evaluating risk tolerance, and selecting investments tailored to each investor's requirements. In a constantly shifting environment, keeping up with the latest trends and consulting with…

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09 Mar

North Sea shipping route sees collision of container and oil ships

Roger W. WatsonInternational

A crash in the North Sea involving a cargo vessel and a stationary oil tanker flying the US flag has heightened worries about sea travel safety along one of the planet's most trafficked shipping lanes. This event, happening under uncertain conditions, has highlighted possible failures in navigating standards and the difficulties caused by crowded international sea routes.Early assessments indicate that the container vessel collided with the anchored oil tanker, resulting in damage to both crafts. Although no significant injuries or oil leaks have been verified so far, officials are conducting a thorough probe to uncover the reasons behind this incident.…

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09 Mar

Age and ambition: The Vera Wang way

Roger W. WatsonCulture and Entertainment

Vera Wang's name is closely associated with high-end wedding dresses, yet her professional journey spans far beyond one domain. Celebrated for her talent to transform and reinvent herself, Wang's career exemplifies adaptation, persistence, and an unwavering determination to defy the constraints of age or social norms. From ice rinks to fashion publications, and ultimately to establishing an international business, Wang’s narrative delivers an inspiring lesson about welcoming transformation and discovering fresh prospects at every phase of life.Wang’s early ambitions were initially unrelated to the fashion industry. As a young girl, her dream was to become an Olympic figure skater. Despite…