Consumer confidence has plummeted to its lowest point in four years, signaling potential challenges for the retail and discretionary spending sectors. In an exclusive interview with Wealth, James Ragan, the director of investment management research at D.A. Davidson, provides critical insights into the current market landscape and the impact of ongoing tariff uncertainties. Ragan's expert analysis sheds light on the complex dynamics affecting consumer discretionary investments, highlighting the growing concerns among investors and consumers alike. The sharp decline in consumer confidence suggests a more cautious approach to spending and potential economic headwinds. For a deeper dive into the latest market trends and expert perspectives, viewers are encouraged to explore more in-depth coverage on Wealth, where top financial analysts break down the most critical economic indicators and investment strategies. MORE...

Capita Life and Pensions Workers Set to Launch Targeted Strike Action Union members from Unite are preparing for a significant industrial action, with workers in Glasgow and Manchester planning a strategic walkout. The strike, scheduled to begin on Wednesday and continue until April 7, aims to highlight ongoing workplace concerns and push for improved working conditions. Employees in Capita's Life and Pensions division will temporarily suspend their duties, signaling their commitment to addressing key employment issues. This coordinated strike represents a unified stance by workers seeking meaningful dialogue and resolution with their employer. The industrial action underscores the growing tensions between workers and management, with Unite members demonstrating their resolve to be heard and to secure fair treatment in their workplace. MORE...

CD Projekt, the renowned game developer behind the critically acclaimed Witcher series, has revealed exciting news about the future of its beloved medieval fantasy franchise. In a recent announcement, the company's finance chief, Piotr Nielubowicz, confirmed that the highly anticipated "Witcher IV" will not be hitting shelves until after 2026. This upcoming title is set to be the first installment in a planned trilogy that promises to expand and deepen the rich, immersive world that fans have come to love. While the extended timeline may test the patience of eager gamers, it suggests that CD Projekt is committed to delivering a meticulously crafted and groundbreaking gaming experience. The delay indicates the studio's dedication to pushing the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay, potentially leveraging next-generation technology to create an unprecedented adventure in the Witcher universe. MORE...

Forge Global and Yahoo Finance Revolutionize Private Company Insights

In a groundbreaking move that promises to transform how investors access critical market intelligence, Forge Global Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: FRGE) has announced an innovative partnership with Yahoo Finance that will provide unprecedented transparency into the world of unicorn companies.

This first-of-its-kind collaboration will empower investors by offering real-time pricing and valuation data for late-stage private U.S. companies, bridging a critical information gap in the financial marketplace. By integrating Forge's comprehensive private securities data with Yahoo Finance's robust platform, investors will now have instant access to up-to-the-minute insights before these companies go public.

The strategic alliance represents a significant leap forward in democratizing financial information, enabling both institutional and individual investors to make more informed investment decisions with greater confidence and precision.

As the private securities landscape continues to evolve, this partnership positions Forge Global and Yahoo Finance at the forefront of financial innovation, offering a transparent window into the dynamic world of pre-IPO companies.

Forge and Yahoo Finance Unveil Groundbreaking Partnership for Unicorn Company Insights

In a revolutionary move that's set to transform how investors and market analysts track emerging companies, Forge Global has partnered with Yahoo Finance to deliver unprecedented access to real-time pricing data for top unicorn companies.

This innovative collaboration bridges the critical information gap between private and public markets, offering unprecedented transparency and insights into the most exciting emerging businesses worldwide. Investors can now seamlessly compare private and public company valuations, gaining a comprehensive view of market dynamics that was previously impossible.

Key highlights of the partnership include:

• Real-time pricing data for leading private unicorn companies
• Comprehensive market comparisons across private and public sectors
• Unprecedented transparency for investors and market researchers

By breaking down traditional barriers between private and public market information, Forge and Yahoo Finance are empowering investors with cutting-edge insights that can drive smarter, more informed investment strategies.

CME Group Surges Forward: A Quarter of Strategic Innovation and Financial Strength Investors and market watchers have taken note of CME Group's impressive 10% share price surge over the past quarter, highlighting the company's robust strategic positioning and technological advancement. At the forefront of this momentum is a groundbreaking partnership with Google Cloud, which promises to revolutionize secure payment systems and asset tokenization. The collaboration with Google Cloud represents more than just a technological alliance; it signals CME Group's commitment to pioneering digital financial solutions. By leveraging cutting-edge cloud technologies, the company is poised to transform traditional financial infrastructure and create more efficient, secure transaction environments. Financial performance in Q4 2024 further underscores CME Group's resilience. Despite market volatility, the company demonstrated remarkable growth in both revenue and net income, reinforcing investor confidence and showcasing its ability to navigate complex economic landscapes. Technological integration remains a key differentiator for CME Group. The strategic investments in innovative platforms and digital solutions are not merely incremental improvements but represent a fundamental reimagining of financial services in the digital age. As the financial technology sector continues to evolve, CME Group stands positioned as a forward-thinking leader, balancing technological innovation with solid financial performance. MORE...

Wyoming's Gender Pay Gap: A Stark Economic Reality

A groundbreaking study released by the Wyoming Administration & Information in February 2025 reveals a troubling economic disparity that continues to challenge workplace equality in the state. According to the comprehensive Employment and Earnings Gaps by Industry, Sex and Education report, women in Wyoming are facing a significant wage disadvantage, earning merely 65 cents for every dollar earned by their male counterparts.

This persistent pay gap highlights the ongoing challenges women face in achieving financial parity across various industries and educational backgrounds. The study provides a stark reminder that gender-based economic inequity remains a critical issue that demands attention and proactive solutions.

The research underscores the need for continued efforts to address workplace discrimination, promote equal opportunities, and ensure fair compensation regardless of gender. As Wyoming strives to create a more equitable economic landscape, this data serves as a crucial call to action for employers, policymakers, and community leaders.

While progress has been made in recent years, the 65-cent wage gap represents a significant economic challenge for women in the state, impacting their long-term financial stability and professional advancement.

Senator Sasha Renée Pérez: Championing Progress for California's 25th District

Meet Sasha Renée Pérez, a dynamic and passionate representative serving the vibrant communities of California's 25th Senate District. With a commitment to progressive values and community empowerment, Senator Pérez is dedicated to creating meaningful change and addressing the critical needs of her constituents.

Leadership and Vision

As a young, energetic leader, Senator Pérez brings fresh perspectives to Sacramento, focusing on key issues that matter most to California families. Her legislative priorities include economic justice, affordable housing, education, and environmental sustainability.

Community Advocacy

Deeply rooted in her district, Senator Pérez understands the unique challenges and opportunities facing local communities. She works tirelessly to amplify the voices of residents, crafting policies that promote equity, opportunity, and inclusive growth.

Key Initiatives

• Advancing economic opportunities for working families
• Protecting environmental resources
• Improving access to quality education
• Supporting small businesses and local economic development

Senator Sasha Renée Pérez is more than a legislator – she's a committed public servant dedicated to building a brighter, more equitable future for California.

March Madness Bracket Strategies: How Finance Pros Make Their Picks When the NCAA basketball tournament rolls around, even seasoned finance industry leaders approach their brackets with the same mix of excitement, strategy, and unpredictability as passionate fans. Just like casual basketball enthusiasts, these professionals employ a diverse range of methods to predict tournament outcomes. Some finance experts dive deep into game analysis, meticulously researching team statistics, player performances, and historical trends. Others follow their hearts, choosing teams based on personal connections or nostalgic attachments to alma maters. A few rely on gut instinct and the mysterious alchemy of basketball intuition, while some are now turning to cutting-edge technology, asking AI bots to crunch the numbers and make predictions. The beauty of March Madness lies in its delightful unpredictability – a leveling field where data-driven strategies and pure luck dance together, creating a thrilling tournament experience that captivates everyone from Wall Street analysts to weekend sports fans. MORE...

Oxford Financial Group, Ltd. Welcomes Accomplished Managing Director Tania DeVries to Grand Rapids Team Carmel, Indiana - Oxford Financial Group, Ltd. is thrilled to announce the strategic addition of Tania DeVries to its professional roster. Joining as a Managing Director in the firm's Grand Rapids, Michigan office, DeVries brings exceptional expertise in crafting personalized financial strategies. With her profound understanding of complex financial landscapes, DeVries will collaborate closely with the firm's investment and tax planning specialists. Her primary focus will be developing innovative, tailored solutions that meticulously align with clients' unique financial objectives and comprehensive life goals. This latest recruitment underscores Oxford Financial Group's commitment to expanding its talent pool and delivering exceptional, client-centered financial advisory services. DeVries' extensive experience and strategic approach are expected to further enhance the firm's ability to provide sophisticated financial guidance. MORE...