A new report from Google, Temasek, and Bain projects Southeast Asia's digital economy will surge 17% to $368 billion in 2026, powered by AI adoption across the region. With 243 million active generative AI users and 75% of consumers willing to let AI complete transactions for them, the region is rewriting the rules of digital commerce. The bigger headline: analysts say this market could crack $1 trillion by 2035. https://qz.com/southeast-asia-digital-economy-368-billion-ai-growth-102126

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A new ranking asks which state economies actually work for the people living in them, and the results upend conventional wisdom. California, home to Silicon Valley, lands at 41st while North Dakota claims the top spot. Find out where your state falls and why the biggest economies are not the best ones. https://qz.com/the-5-us-states-with-the-best-economies-in-2026--and-the-5-worst

A new ranking asks which state economies actually work for the people living in them, and the results upend conventional wisdom. California, home to Silicon Valley, lands at 41st while North Dakota claims the top spot. Find out where your state falls and why the biggest economies are not the best ones. https://qz.com/the-5-us-states-with-the-best-economies-in-2026--and-the-5-worst

Consumer confidence cratered to a 12-year low in September, missing forecasts by a wide margin — and for the first time ever, more Americans say their family's finances are 'bad' than 'good.' With inflation fears rising and a recession warning signal now flashing, the mood is souring across every political and income group.

Packaging, freight and energy costs are pushing up beer, wine and spirits prices in 2026.

After hitting a record low in 2025, first-time home buyers may find a more welcoming housing market in the new year.