In response to recent diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) setbacks across major retail landscapes, the "Spend in the Black" movement emerges as a powerful grassroots initiative empowering consumers to make intentional economic choices. This innovative campaign invites shoppers to redirect their purchasing power by supporting Black-owned businesses, transforming economic solidarity into a meaningful form of community advocacy. As large retail chains continue to scale back their diversity programs, this movement offers a proactive approach for individuals to create tangible economic impact. By consciously choosing to spend at Black-owned establishments, consumers can directly contribute to community economic resilience and entrepreneurial success. The campaign goes beyond mere shopping—it represents a strategic approach to economic empowerment, encouraging consumers to recognize the critical role of supporting diverse business ecosystems. Each purchase becomes a statement of solidarity, challenging systemic economic barriers and celebrating the innovation and excellence of Black entrepreneurs. MORE...

Asheville's vibrant downtown is buzzing with renewed energy this Easter weekend, as a wave of enthusiastic tourists breathes life back into the city's local businesses. Merchants and restaurant managers are witnessing a promising resurgence, with visitors eagerly exploring the city's charming streets, unique shops, and culinary hotspots. The holiday weekend has brought a much-needed boost to the local economy, with restaurants filling up, boutiques seeing increased foot traffic, and the city's iconic hospitality shining through. Restaurateurs report packed dining rooms and bustling patios, while shop owners greet a steady stream of excited travelers eager to experience Asheville's distinctive charm. This surge of tourism signals a hopeful turn for local businesses that have weathered challenging times. The Easter weekend appears to be more than just a seasonal peak—it's a testament to Asheville's enduring appeal and the community's resilient spirit. Visitors are not just passing through; they're fully embracing the city's unique blend of culture, cuisine, and creativity. MORE...

In a powerful rebuke of the Trump administration's proposed tariff strategy, a distinguished panel of leading economists has raised serious concerns about the potential economic fallout of the so-called "reciprocal" trade measures. The group of renowned economic experts has united to challenge the administration's tariff plan, arguing that the proposed rates could have devastating consequences for international trade and domestic economic stability. These top economists have meticulously analyzed the proposed tariffs and found them to be fundamentally flawed, warning that such protectionist policies could trigger unintended economic repercussions. Their collective letter serves as a stark warning about the potential risks of implementing what the administration claims are "balanced" trade measures. By presenting a unified front, these economic scholars are highlighting the complex interconnections of global trade and the potential dangers of simplistic protectionist approaches. Their critique underscores the nuanced economic considerations that seem to have been overlooked in the current tariff proposal. The economists' letter represents a critical intervention in the ongoing debate about international trade policy, challenging the administration's narrative and providing a sophisticated economic perspective on the potential impacts of these proposed tariffs. MORE...

In a revealing statement, American Express CEO Stephen Squeri highlighted a positive trend among younger cardholders. The company's Gen Z and millennial customers are proving to be more financially responsible than many might expect, boasting impressive credit profiles with higher FICO scores and notably lower delinquency rates. Squeri's insights shed light on a promising financial narrative for younger generations, challenging common stereotypes about their financial management skills. These younger Amex cardholders are demonstrating a level of financial discipline that sets them apart, showing they are not just tech-savvy but also credit-conscious. The data suggests that contrary to popular belief, Gen Z and millennials are taking a strategic approach to credit, maintaining stronger credit health and more reliable payment behaviors. This trend could signal a shift in how younger consumers view and manage their financial responsibilities. MORE...

In the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, Croatian startup Splx is taking a proactive approach to safety, embodying the age-old wisdom that it's better to be safe than sorry. The company's innovative strategy has not only caught the attention of investors but has also secured crucial funding through a compelling pitch deck. Splx's core philosophy centers on anticipating and mitigating potential risks before they become critical issues in AI development. By prioritizing safety and responsible innovation, the startup is positioning itself as a forward-thinking leader in the tech landscape. The pitch deck that won over investors showcases the company's comprehensive approach to AI safety, highlighting their unique methodologies and forward-looking vision. It's a testament to their commitment to developing AI technologies that are not just cutting-edge, but also fundamentally secure and ethical. As the AI industry continues to expand at breakneck speed, Splx stands out by putting safety and responsible development at the forefront of their mission. Their approach serves as a crucial reminder that technological advancement must always be balanced with careful consideration and proactive risk management. MORE...

Sam's Club is set to revolutionize the shopping experience by eliminating traditional checkout lines across its entire network of 600 stores. The retail giant is introducing a cutting-edge technology that promises to transform how members shop and pay for their purchases. Under the new system, shoppers will use a dedicated mobile app to scan items as they move through the store. Advanced artificial intelligence will then verify purchases in real-time, allowing members to seamlessly exit the store without waiting in conventional checkout lines. This innovative approach combines convenience with sophisticated technology, potentially setting a new standard for retail shopping experiences. The technology leverages smart scanning capabilities and AI-powered verification, creating a frictionless shopping journey that saves time and reduces customer frustration. By eliminating traditional checkout processes, Sam's Club aims to streamline the shopping experience and provide a more efficient, modern approach to retail transactions. This strategic move reflects the growing trend of technology-driven retail solutions, positioning Sam's Club at the forefront of innovative shopping experiences. Members can look forward to a faster, more convenient way of completing their purchases with just a few taps on their smartphone. MORE...

In a significant update for international trade, B2B shipments destined for US businesses with a declared value exceeding $800 will continue to move forward, albeit with potential logistical challenges. A leading shipping company has confirmed that while these high-value commercial consignments will not be completely halted, businesses should anticipate possible transit delays. The announcement comes amid ongoing global supply chain disruptions, signaling a nuanced approach to managing cross-border commercial shipments. Companies engaged in international trade are advised to remain flexible and prepare for potential extended delivery timelines. Logistics experts recommend that businesses proactively communicate with their shipping partners and maintain contingency plans to mitigate potential interruptions. The current shipping landscape demands strategic planning and adaptability from organizations relying on international freight services. While the specifics of potential delays remain fluid, businesses can take comfort in knowing that critical B2B shipments with substantial declared values will continue to be processed, ensuring minimal disruption to essential commercial operations. MORE...

The Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its highly anticipated 2025 State of the City Luncheon, transforming the elegant Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort into a vibrant hub of regional business networking and insight. Held on April 11, the annual event brought together dynamic business leaders from Goleta, Santa Barbara, and Carpinteria, offering a comprehensive overview of the local economic landscape and future opportunities. This premier gathering served as a critical platform for professionals to connect, share perspectives, and gain valuable insights into the region's economic trajectory. Attendees were treated to an in-depth exploration of the area's business climate, emerging trends, and strategic developments that are shaping the South Coast's economic future. The luncheon not only highlighted current economic achievements but also provided a forward-looking perspective on the potential and challenges facing the local business community. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, the event underscored the Chamber's commitment to supporting and advancing regional economic growth. MORE...

In a bold strategic move, Elon Musk's artificial intelligence venture xAI has completed the acquisition of X (formerly Twitter) for a staggering $33 billion, further expanding his technological empire. The purchase signals Musk's continued commitment to transforming digital communication and social media platforms. Building on this momentum, Musk is set to launch X Money in 2025, a cutting-edge fintech platform that promises to revolutionize digital financial services. This ambitious project underscores Musk's ongoing strategy of disrupting traditional industries through innovative technological solutions. The acquisition and upcoming fintech launch represent another significant milestone in Musk's increasingly diverse business portfolio, demonstrating his ability to seamlessly integrate artificial intelligence, social media, and financial technologies into a cohesive ecosystem. As tech enthusiasts and investors watch closely, Musk continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in the digital landscape, blending AI, communication, and financial technologies in unprecedented ways. MORE...

In a bold call to action, Anduril Industries founder Palmer Luckey is pushing the United States to accelerate its artificial intelligence weapons development to maintain a competitive edge against China's emerging technological capabilities. Luckey argues that strategic investment in AI-powered defense technologies is crucial for national security in an increasingly complex global landscape. The tech entrepreneur, known for his innovative approach to defense technology, warns that the United States risks falling behind if it doesn't rapidly embrace and develop advanced AI military systems. He emphasizes that China is aggressively pursuing cutting-edge AI weaponry, and the US must respond with equally sophisticated technological innovations. Luckey's perspective highlights the growing intersection of artificial intelligence and national defense, suggesting that future military superiority will be determined by technological prowess and rapid innovation. His call underscores the critical need for substantial investment in AI research and development within the defense sector to ensure national strategic advantages. As tensions between global superpowers continue to evolve, Luckey's message serves as a stark reminder that technological leadership could be the defining factor in maintaining geopolitical influence and national security in the 21st century. MORE...