1 day ago
On Wednesday, OpenAI (OPAI.PVT) revealed six new examples of its AI models displaying "unexpected or concerning model behavior" during testing and evaluation.
The company made the announcement alongside a new framework for "tracking, reporting, and disclosing" instances where AI models take actions they otherwise aren't told to or shouldn't.
It follows a number of reports of AI models from companies hacking into third-party networks and services, including an unreleased OpenAI model breaking into the network of AI model and testing site Hugging Face.
Earlier this week, Anthropic (ANTH.PVT) CEO Dario Amodei penned a lengthy essay calling for a slowdown in the pace of the development of frontier AI models, after Anthropic researcher Jacob ******* on posted on X that he was resigning from the company because it, and his former employer OpenAI, is "racing straight to self-improving superintelligence and gambling with our lives."
Anthropic alignment science lead Evan Hubinger followed up on ******* on's comments with his own post on X saying that he believes there is a greater-than-10% chance that the technology could "kill all humans."
#face
The company made the announcement alongside a new framework for "tracking, reporting, and disclosing" instances where AI models take actions they otherwise aren't told to or shouldn't.
It follows a number of reports of AI models from companies hacking into third-party networks and services, including an unreleased OpenAI model breaking into the network of AI model and testing site Hugging Face.
Earlier this week, Anthropic (ANTH.PVT) CEO Dario Amodei penned a lengthy essay calling for a slowdown in the pace of the development of frontier AI models, after Anthropic researcher Jacob ******* on posted on X that he was resigning from the company because it, and his former employer OpenAI, is "racing straight to self-improving superintelligence and gambling with our lives."
Anthropic alignment science lead Evan Hubinger followed up on ******* on's comments with his own post on X saying that he believes there is a greater-than-10% chance that the technology could "kill all humans."
#face
2 days ago
Amazon Business is now a $60B operation serving 11 million customers worldwide. In this FreightWaves Today interview, Amazon Business exec Daniel Silverfield breaks down what that scale means for procurement, supplier consolidation, same-day grocery delivery and AI-driven savings.The big takeaway: business buyers want fewer suppliers, better visibility and less waste in purchasing. Silverfield explains how Amazon Business is pitching exactly that to everyone from small companies to Fortune 100s.
Amazon Business has hit $60 billion in annualized gross sales and now serves 11 million customers worldwide, with 1.8 million organizations added this year alone — a growth rate that puts it on par with a Fortune 100 company if it were standalone. The platform, which launched roughly a decade ago after Amazon noticed businesses already shopping on amazon.com, is increasingly central to how companies across sectors manage procurement, from office supplies to same-day groceries.
The scale matters to shippers, carriers, and brokers because Amazon Business is driving a fundamental shift in B2B purchasing behavior — consolidating supplier pools, centralizing data, and moving procurement from quarterly reporting cycles to an always-on, AI-powered model. Every order that migrates to the platform is one fewer touchpoint for traditional distributors and one more shipment flowing through Amazon's own logistics network.
Daniel Silverfield, head of value and selection for Amazon Business, said the platform saved customers $880 million on Prime free shipping last year and $1 billion through business-specific discounts. The company added 30% new items year over year and recently launched same-day grocery delivery across 2,300 U.S. cities in the first half of this year, a capability customers had been requesting for some time.
"The big shift that we're seeing is that people are moving to a continuous, always-on, conversational-powered procurement journey where agents may be looking for the best price while they're asleep, maybe negotiating on their behalf while they're asleep, and then surfacing to them the best product to buy," said Silverfield.
#customers
Amazon Business has hit $60 billion in annualized gross sales and now serves 11 million customers worldwide, with 1.8 million organizations added this year alone — a growth rate that puts it on par with a Fortune 100 company if it were standalone. The platform, which launched roughly a decade ago after Amazon noticed businesses already shopping on amazon.com, is increasingly central to how companies across sectors manage procurement, from office supplies to same-day groceries.
The scale matters to shippers, carriers, and brokers because Amazon Business is driving a fundamental shift in B2B purchasing behavior — consolidating supplier pools, centralizing data, and moving procurement from quarterly reporting cycles to an always-on, AI-powered model. Every order that migrates to the platform is one fewer touchpoint for traditional distributors and one more shipment flowing through Amazon's own logistics network.
Daniel Silverfield, head of value and selection for Amazon Business, said the platform saved customers $880 million on Prime free shipping last year and $1 billion through business-specific discounts. The company added 30% new items year over year and recently launched same-day grocery delivery across 2,300 U.S. cities in the first half of this year, a capability customers had been requesting for some time.
"The big shift that we're seeing is that people are moving to a continuous, always-on, conversational-powered procurement journey where agents may be looking for the best price while they're asleep, maybe negotiating on their behalf while they're asleep, and then surfacing to them the best product to buy," said Silverfield.
#customers
3 days ago
This story was originally published on CX Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily CX Dive newsletter.
More than half of consumers — 56% — have left brands that ignored their feedback, according to a survey of 1,500 consumers and 750 digital leaders from Quantum Metric, released earlier this month.
Fewer than 1 in 5 consumers see surveys as an effective way to provide their feedback, and another one-third said they don't feel heard by digital brands at all.
One-quarter of digital leaders have daily access to recent customer feedback, while about half — 52% — have no formal process for acting on the feedback they do collect, the report found.
Gathering data on customer sentiment and behavior without acting on it is a fruitless exercise, but taking action on data is easier said than done.
#consumers #digital #half #leaders
More than half of consumers — 56% — have left brands that ignored their feedback, according to a survey of 1,500 consumers and 750 digital leaders from Quantum Metric, released earlier this month.
Fewer than 1 in 5 consumers see surveys as an effective way to provide their feedback, and another one-third said they don't feel heard by digital brands at all.
One-quarter of digital leaders have daily access to recent customer feedback, while about half — 52% — have no formal process for acting on the feedback they do collect, the report found.
Gathering data on customer sentiment and behavior without acting on it is a fruitless exercise, but taking action on data is easier said than done.
#consumers #digital #half #leaders
3 days ago
Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) says its newly launched oral obesity drug Foundayo has captured more than 30% of new U.S. patients starting oral weight-loss medicines, a notable early gain against Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill. Reuters reports that Wegovy initially held roughly 90% of the oral market, making Lilly's rapid share capture an important sign that the oral GLP-1 market is becoming a two-player competition rather than a Novo-dominated segment. The broader U.S. obesity-drug market is expected to exceed $100 billion annually by 2030, with oral treatments potentially accounting for more than one-third of GLP-1 use.
The timing is strategically important for Lilly because Foundayo was only launched in the U.S. in April 2026. The drug starts at $149 per month for self-pay patients and can cost as little as $25 for eligible commercially insured patients, while Medicare beneficiaries can access it through the GLP-1 Bridge program at $50 per month. Lilly's SEC filing says Mounjaro and Zepbound already represented 65% of its revenue in the first six months of 2026, highlighting both the importance of the incretin franchise and the opportunity for Foundayo to broaden Lilly's cardiometabolic revenue base.
The strongest bullish implication is that Foundayo appears to be overcoming the biggest behavioral barrier in obesity treatment: patients' preference for an oral medicine over an injection. Capturing more than 30% of new oral patients only months after launch suggests Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) is establishing meaningful competitive positioning before the oral GLP-1 market fully scales. Foundayo's formulation also has a practical advantage because it can be taken at any time of day without food or water restrictions, while Lilly's clinical data showed an average 27.3-pound, or 12.4%, weight reduction at the highest dose among patients who remained on treatment in ATTAIN-1.
The commercial opportunity could become considerably larger if Foundayo gains indications beyond obesity. Lilly reported that in the ACHIEVE-3 trial, Foundayo produced a 57.1% greater relative reduction in A1C and a 73.6% greater relative reduction in body weight compared with oral semaglutide 14 mg. Lilly submitted Foundayo for type 2 diabetes in the U.S., EU, and **** an, potentially expanding the addressable market beyond weight management.
The early oral-market traction also complements Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY)'s existing injectable franchise rather than simply cannibalizing it. A Lilly trial found that patients switching from maximum-tolerated Wegovy to Foundayo maintained all but 0.9 kg of their previous weight loss after one year, while patients switching from maximum-dose Zepbound to Foundayo maintained all but 5.0 kg. That suggests Foundayo could serve as a maintenance or lower-burden treatment within Lilly's broader obesity portfolio, increasing lifetime value per patient rather than limiting the opportunity to new prescriptions.
#patients #weight #c
The timing is strategically important for Lilly because Foundayo was only launched in the U.S. in April 2026. The drug starts at $149 per month for self-pay patients and can cost as little as $25 for eligible commercially insured patients, while Medicare beneficiaries can access it through the GLP-1 Bridge program at $50 per month. Lilly's SEC filing says Mounjaro and Zepbound already represented 65% of its revenue in the first six months of 2026, highlighting both the importance of the incretin franchise and the opportunity for Foundayo to broaden Lilly's cardiometabolic revenue base.
The strongest bullish implication is that Foundayo appears to be overcoming the biggest behavioral barrier in obesity treatment: patients' preference for an oral medicine over an injection. Capturing more than 30% of new oral patients only months after launch suggests Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) is establishing meaningful competitive positioning before the oral GLP-1 market fully scales. Foundayo's formulation also has a practical advantage because it can be taken at any time of day without food or water restrictions, while Lilly's clinical data showed an average 27.3-pound, or 12.4%, weight reduction at the highest dose among patients who remained on treatment in ATTAIN-1.
The commercial opportunity could become considerably larger if Foundayo gains indications beyond obesity. Lilly reported that in the ACHIEVE-3 trial, Foundayo produced a 57.1% greater relative reduction in A1C and a 73.6% greater relative reduction in body weight compared with oral semaglutide 14 mg. Lilly submitted Foundayo for type 2 diabetes in the U.S., EU, and **** an, potentially expanding the addressable market beyond weight management.
The early oral-market traction also complements Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY)'s existing injectable franchise rather than simply cannibalizing it. A Lilly trial found that patients switching from maximum-tolerated Wegovy to Foundayo maintained all but 0.9 kg of their previous weight loss after one year, while patients switching from maximum-dose Zepbound to Foundayo maintained all but 5.0 kg. That suggests Foundayo could serve as a maintenance or lower-burden treatment within Lilly's broader obesity portfolio, increasing lifetime value per patient rather than limiting the opportunity to new prescriptions.
#patients #weight #c
3 days ago
Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) says its newly launched oral obesity drug Foundayo has captured more than 30% of new U.S. patients starting oral weight-loss medicines, a notable early gain against Novo Nordisk's Wegovy pill. Reuters reports that Wegovy initially held roughly 90% of the oral market, making Lilly's rapid share capture an important sign that the oral GLP-1 market is becoming a two-player competition rather than a Novo-dominated segment. The broader U.S. obesity-drug market is expected to exceed $100 billion annually by 2030, with oral treatments potentially accounting for more than one-third of GLP-1 use.
The timing is strategically important for Lilly because Foundayo was only launched in the U.S. in April 2026. The drug starts at $149 per month for self-pay patients and can cost as little as $25 for eligible commercially insured patients, while Medicare beneficiaries can access it through the GLP-1 Bridge program at $50 per month. Lilly's SEC filing says Mounjaro and Zepbound already represented 65% of its revenue in the first six months of 2026, highlighting both the importance of the incretin franchise and the opportunity for Foundayo to broaden Lilly's cardiometabolic revenue base.
The strongest bullish implication is that Foundayo appears to be overcoming the biggest behavioral barrier in obesity treatment: patients' preference for an oral medicine over an injection. Capturing more than 30% of new oral patients only months after launch suggests Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) is establishing meaningful competitive positioning before the oral GLP-1 market fully scales. Foundayo's formulation also has a practical advantage because it can be taken at any time of day without food or water restrictions, while Lilly's clinical data showed an average 27.3-pound, or 12.4%, weight reduction at the highest dose among patients who remained on treatment in ATTAIN-1.
The commercial opportunity could become considerably larger if Foundayo gains indications beyond obesity. Lilly reported that in the ACHIEVE-3 trial, Foundayo produced a 57.1% greater relative reduction in A1C and a 73.6% greater relative reduction in body weight compared with oral semaglutide 14 mg. Lilly submitted Foundayo for type 2 diabetes in the U.S., EU, and ***** an, potentially expanding the addressable market beyond weight management.
The early oral-market traction also complements Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY)'s existing injectable franchise rather than simply cannibalizing it. A Lilly trial found that patients switching from maximum-tolerated Wegovy to Foundayo maintained all but 0.9 kg of their previous weight loss after one year, while patients switching from maximum-dose Zepbound to Foundayo maintained all but 5.0 kg. That suggests Foundayo could serve as a maintenance or lower-burden treatment within Lilly's broader obesity portfolio, increasing lifetime value per patient rather than limiting the opportunity to new prescriptions.
#weight
The timing is strategically important for Lilly because Foundayo was only launched in the U.S. in April 2026. The drug starts at $149 per month for self-pay patients and can cost as little as $25 for eligible commercially insured patients, while Medicare beneficiaries can access it through the GLP-1 Bridge program at $50 per month. Lilly's SEC filing says Mounjaro and Zepbound already represented 65% of its revenue in the first six months of 2026, highlighting both the importance of the incretin franchise and the opportunity for Foundayo to broaden Lilly's cardiometabolic revenue base.
The strongest bullish implication is that Foundayo appears to be overcoming the biggest behavioral barrier in obesity treatment: patients' preference for an oral medicine over an injection. Capturing more than 30% of new oral patients only months after launch suggests Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY) is establishing meaningful competitive positioning before the oral GLP-1 market fully scales. Foundayo's formulation also has a practical advantage because it can be taken at any time of day without food or water restrictions, while Lilly's clinical data showed an average 27.3-pound, or 12.4%, weight reduction at the highest dose among patients who remained on treatment in ATTAIN-1.
The commercial opportunity could become considerably larger if Foundayo gains indications beyond obesity. Lilly reported that in the ACHIEVE-3 trial, Foundayo produced a 57.1% greater relative reduction in A1C and a 73.6% greater relative reduction in body weight compared with oral semaglutide 14 mg. Lilly submitted Foundayo for type 2 diabetes in the U.S., EU, and ***** an, potentially expanding the addressable market beyond weight management.
The early oral-market traction also complements Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY)'s existing injectable franchise rather than simply cannibalizing it. A Lilly trial found that patients switching from maximum-tolerated Wegovy to Foundayo maintained all but 0.9 kg of their previous weight loss after one year, while patients switching from maximum-dose Zepbound to Foundayo maintained all but 5.0 kg. That suggests Foundayo could serve as a maintenance or lower-burden treatment within Lilly's broader obesity portfolio, increasing lifetime value per patient rather than limiting the opportunity to new prescriptions.
#weight
3 days ago
Oregon billionaires Phil and Penny Knight committed $1.1 billion to the Providence St. Vincent Medical Center and the Providence Heart Institute to build Oregon's first hospital dedicated to women's health, the medical center announced Tuesday.
Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and his wife, have supported the institute for more than a decade, previously giving it more than $200 million, including a $75 million gift earlier this year. Along with creating the new women's hospital, their new donation will help the medical center expand cardiovascular care and clinical research and training programs for the heart institute's medical personnel. It will also make it easier to integrate patient care across the medical center.
"Women's health needs change throughout life, and too often patients are asked to navigate multiple specialties and care settings on their own," Ray Moreno, the medical center's CEO, said in a statement. "The Knights' gift is an opportunity to bring these resources together, expanding access for women across Oregon and creating a strong foundation to bridge care gaps in women's health."
The donation is particularly significant because it comes at a moment when U.S. hospitals are seeing far more pregnant patients who are also managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, addiction, and behavioral and mental health issues. It also lands at the same time healthcare organizations are struggling with the impact of government funding cuts.
"Resources are scarce, and healthcare is increasingly looking to philanthropy to fill in the gaps," Dan Oseran, the heart institute's executive medical director, told the Chronicle. "A gift like this reduces that friction a little bit and provides the ability to do things we wouldn't otherwise be able to do."
#center #oregon #knight #providence
Phil Knight, co-founder of Nike, and his wife, have supported the institute for more than a decade, previously giving it more than $200 million, including a $75 million gift earlier this year. Along with creating the new women's hospital, their new donation will help the medical center expand cardiovascular care and clinical research and training programs for the heart institute's medical personnel. It will also make it easier to integrate patient care across the medical center.
"Women's health needs change throughout life, and too often patients are asked to navigate multiple specialties and care settings on their own," Ray Moreno, the medical center's CEO, said in a statement. "The Knights' gift is an opportunity to bring these resources together, expanding access for women across Oregon and creating a strong foundation to bridge care gaps in women's health."
The donation is particularly significant because it comes at a moment when U.S. hospitals are seeing far more pregnant patients who are also managing chronic health conditions like diabetes, hypertension, addiction, and behavioral and mental health issues. It also lands at the same time healthcare organizations are struggling with the impact of government funding cuts.
"Resources are scarce, and healthcare is increasingly looking to philanthropy to fill in the gaps," Dan Oseran, the heart institute's executive medical director, told the Chronicle. "A gift like this reduces that friction a little bit and provides the ability to do things we wouldn't otherwise be able to do."
#center #oregon #knight #providence
5 days ago
The college football world watched one specific matchup in Week 2 that had been circled on the calendar since last year. Ohio State and Texas had a score to settle after the Buckeyes embarrassed the Longhorns in last season's College Football Playoff. Texas got its revenge with a thrilling, historic comeback that helped this highly anticipated contest live up to the hype.
However, just as notable was the behavior of Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian after the game.
Following Texas' dramatic victory, ESPN's Holly Rowe approached Sarkisian for an instant reaction interview. Sarkisian, however, blew off Rowe and walked away from the interview.
MORE: Steve Sarkisian sends defiant message after leading Texas past Ohio State in historic stunner
Two prominent ESPN ****** ysts, Stephen A. Smith and Paul Finebaum, ripped Sarkisian for treating one of the best sideline reporters in the business that way. Stephen A. Smith addressed the situation on First Take.
#Football
However, just as notable was the behavior of Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian after the game.
Following Texas' dramatic victory, ESPN's Holly Rowe approached Sarkisian for an instant reaction interview. Sarkisian, however, blew off Rowe and walked away from the interview.
MORE: Steve Sarkisian sends defiant message after leading Texas past Ohio State in historic stunner
Two prominent ESPN ****** ysts, Stephen A. Smith and Paul Finebaum, ripped Sarkisian for treating one of the best sideline reporters in the business that way. Stephen A. Smith addressed the situation on First Take.
#Football
5 days ago
James Talarico, the Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate in Texas, once described parents who refused to acknowledge their children's gender identity as potentially engaging in "abusive" behavior.
"I think there are some folks that would think that if you deny your child's gender identity, that's incredibly harmful. And whether or not we label it with the term abuse, it's abusive for sure," Talarico said while speaking at a committee hearing in the Texas Legislature in 2019.
Talarico's resurfaced comments add to a growing pile of past remarks that cut against his efforts to paint himself as a moderate on issues like gender, policing and border security as he attempts to win over Texas, a historically Republican-leaning state.
Talarico Says He 'Missed The Mark' As He Backtracks On Controversial Woke Statements
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico speaks during a campaign rally at the Cailloux Theater on Aug. 31, 2026, in Kerrville, Texas. Talarico is in a close race against Republican Ken Paxton ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.
#gender #democratic #senate #abusive
"I think there are some folks that would think that if you deny your child's gender identity, that's incredibly harmful. And whether or not we label it with the term abuse, it's abusive for sure," Talarico said while speaking at a committee hearing in the Texas Legislature in 2019.
Talarico's resurfaced comments add to a growing pile of past remarks that cut against his efforts to paint himself as a moderate on issues like gender, policing and border security as he attempts to win over Texas, a historically Republican-leaning state.
Talarico Says He 'Missed The Mark' As He Backtracks On Controversial Woke Statements
Democratic U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico speaks during a campaign rally at the Cailloux Theater on Aug. 31, 2026, in Kerrville, Texas. Talarico is in a close race against Republican Ken Paxton ahead of the Nov. 3 general election.
#gender #democratic #senate #abusive
5 days ago
The legal conflict between Jax Taylor and estranged wife Brittany Cartwright has taken another dramatic turn.
Reportedly, Taylor has submitted an email that he claims supports his allegations about Cartwright's behavior since their split.
According to TMZ, Taylor presented the email in court as evidence supporting his claims against Cartwright. He claimed Cartwright has made his life difficult since she filed for divorce in Aug. 2024.
The email has the subject line "Jax X Carpe Collaboration Overview." Taylor cited it while discussing a business deal that did not move forward.
He claimed Cartwright's remarks contributed to the company's decision to cancel a potential partnership with him. A rep for the company wrote an email to his girlfriend and publicist Lori Kerbs detailing the decision.
#taylor #decision #brittany
Reportedly, Taylor has submitted an email that he claims supports his allegations about Cartwright's behavior since their split.
According to TMZ, Taylor presented the email in court as evidence supporting his claims against Cartwright. He claimed Cartwright has made his life difficult since she filed for divorce in Aug. 2024.
The email has the subject line "Jax X Carpe Collaboration Overview." Taylor cited it while discussing a business deal that did not move forward.
He claimed Cartwright's remarks contributed to the company's decision to cancel a potential partnership with him. A rep for the company wrote an email to his girlfriend and publicist Lori Kerbs detailing the decision.
#taylor #decision #brittany
7 days ago
Shailene Woodley's friends reportedly slam Aaron Rodgers after calling out actress originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Shailene Woodley's friends are defending the actress after Aaron Rodgers' recent comments.
Several friends of Woodley's reportedly spoke to TMZ and questioned why "a married dude is bringing up an ex he hasn't spoken with in over two years," one source told the outlet.
Woodley and Rodgers began dating in July 2020, and a few months later in December 2020, the Pittsburgh Steelers star proposed. The couple confirmed their engagement in February 2021.
The "Divergent" actress's friends called his behavior this week "out of character," as during their relationship he respected her privacy. While Woodley has not spoken out about Rodgers' comments, they told the outlet that they don't believe she would be comfortable with him sharing those private details about their past romance. The two broke up for good in 2022.
#rodgers #shailene #source
Shailene Woodley's friends are defending the actress after Aaron Rodgers' recent comments.
Several friends of Woodley's reportedly spoke to TMZ and questioned why "a married dude is bringing up an ex he hasn't spoken with in over two years," one source told the outlet.
Woodley and Rodgers began dating in July 2020, and a few months later in December 2020, the Pittsburgh Steelers star proposed. The couple confirmed their engagement in February 2021.
The "Divergent" actress's friends called his behavior this week "out of character," as during their relationship he respected her privacy. While Woodley has not spoken out about Rodgers' comments, they told the outlet that they don't believe she would be comfortable with him sharing those private details about their past romance. The two broke up for good in 2022.
#rodgers #shailene #source
7 days ago
Chicago White Sox amateur scouting director Mike Shirley resigned on Saturday in the wake of an internal investigation into verbal harassment allegations, according to The Athletic.
Shirley was reportedly placed on administrative leave after the White Sox received an anonymous tip about his conduct at last month's Area Code Games in Long Beach, California. He was alleged to have made racial and ****** ist comments both about coworkers and in front of coworkers.
The White Sox human resources department reportedly launched an investigation into Shirley, interviewing members of his scouting department. It remains unclear what findings the investigation made.
This reportedly wasn't the first time Shirley faced an internal investigation over his behavior. In 2022, he was investigated after a former employee left the club and flagged his behavior toward scouts from underrpresented groups. The tip was made to MLB and later passed on to the White Sox, whose investigation did not find any bias in his hiring practices or behavior.
This latest investigation reportedly included allegations of vulgar language about women and their bodies.
#investigation #made #behavior #scouting
Shirley was reportedly placed on administrative leave after the White Sox received an anonymous tip about his conduct at last month's Area Code Games in Long Beach, California. He was alleged to have made racial and ****** ist comments both about coworkers and in front of coworkers.
The White Sox human resources department reportedly launched an investigation into Shirley, interviewing members of his scouting department. It remains unclear what findings the investigation made.
This reportedly wasn't the first time Shirley faced an internal investigation over his behavior. In 2022, he was investigated after a former employee left the club and flagged his behavior toward scouts from underrpresented groups. The tip was made to MLB and later passed on to the White Sox, whose investigation did not find any bias in his hiring practices or behavior.
This latest investigation reportedly included allegations of vulgar language about women and their bodies.
#investigation #made #behavior #scouting
7 days ago
For most of your adult life, you have decided which card comes out of your wallet. Maybe it is the one with the best cashback. Maybe it is the one on top.
That decision is starting to move to software.
More than one in 10 online shoppers will routinely use AI agents to shop and pay by 2030, according to a report published Sept. 8, 2026 by Mastercard (MA). That works out to more than 300 million people worldwide.
The number reads like a distant projection. Recent US data suggests the behavior is already further along than that.
The report, ******* led "A short history of the future of shopping and payments," pairs original consumer research with predictions from four futurists in the US, Europe and Asia, according to Mastercard.
#maybe
That decision is starting to move to software.
More than one in 10 online shoppers will routinely use AI agents to shop and pay by 2030, according to a report published Sept. 8, 2026 by Mastercard (MA). That works out to more than 300 million people worldwide.
The number reads like a distant projection. Recent US data suggests the behavior is already further along than that.
The report, ******* led "A short history of the future of shopping and payments," pairs original consumer research with predictions from four futurists in the US, Europe and Asia, according to Mastercard.
#maybe
7 days ago
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — The California labor leader behind a proposal to tax billionaires has been accused of harassing and intimidating several women who work for an affiliated union.
The allegations against Dave Regan, president of the SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, are detailed in an investigative report commissioned by SEIU California and obtained Friday by The ******* ociated Press. It includes interviews with several current and former SEIU members and others who say Regan tried to intimidate union leaders into supporting the billionaires' tax, which goes before voters in November.
The Los Angeles Times was the first to report on the allegations.
The report also includes allegations that Regan physically ******* aulted an SEIU leader more than 15 years ago amid a political dispute and that more recently he engaged in harassing behavior against other women who work for the organization.
Regan acknowledged using curse words with union leaders but denied the physical ******* ault allegation.
#regan #seiu #report #harassing
The allegations against Dave Regan, president of the SEIU United Healthcare Workers West, are detailed in an investigative report commissioned by SEIU California and obtained Friday by The ******* ociated Press. It includes interviews with several current and former SEIU members and others who say Regan tried to intimidate union leaders into supporting the billionaires' tax, which goes before voters in November.
The Los Angeles Times was the first to report on the allegations.
The report also includes allegations that Regan physically ******* aulted an SEIU leader more than 15 years ago amid a political dispute and that more recently he engaged in harassing behavior against other women who work for the organization.
Regan acknowledged using curse words with union leaders but denied the physical ******* ault allegation.
#regan #seiu #report #harassing
8 days ago
More footage of Dustin Poirier's airport arrest was just released.
On June 21, Poirier was arrested at Atlanta International Airport for public drunkenness after being removed from a plane and causing a scene. In the initial arrest video, Poirier shows aggressive, erratic behavior towards the gate agents and the responding officer who came to intervene. Poirier even attempts to square up with the responding officer, challenging him to a fight before ultimately accepting his arrest peacefully.
Now, we know what happened afterward.
Newly released bodycam footage of the incident acquired by Mark Fighting shows the extended sequence of Poirier's arrest, with the former interim UFC lightweight champion again challenging officers to take off the cuffs and go "one-on-one."
Following the arrest, Poirier is initially in a calmer state, speaking with the officers and even telling the arresting officer, "he did a great job." Poirier then gets slightly more agitated as he starts talking about previously being imprisoned.
#officer
On June 21, Poirier was arrested at Atlanta International Airport for public drunkenness after being removed from a plane and causing a scene. In the initial arrest video, Poirier shows aggressive, erratic behavior towards the gate agents and the responding officer who came to intervene. Poirier even attempts to square up with the responding officer, challenging him to a fight before ultimately accepting his arrest peacefully.
Now, we know what happened afterward.
Newly released bodycam footage of the incident acquired by Mark Fighting shows the extended sequence of Poirier's arrest, with the former interim UFC lightweight champion again challenging officers to take off the cuffs and go "one-on-one."
Following the arrest, Poirier is initially in a calmer state, speaking with the officers and even telling the arresting officer, "he did a great job." Poirier then gets slightly more agitated as he starts talking about previously being imprisoned.
#officer
8 days ago
Prosper Stars & Stripes, a long/short equity fund, recently released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. In Q2 2026, the portfolio delivered a strong net return of +30.1% compared to the Russell 2000 Index's +21.5% return and the HFRX Equity Hedge Index's +10.3% return. The long book drove performance, generating a 43.2% gross contribution, while average net exposure remained relatively modest at 47%. U.S. economic growth remained resilient despite inflation concerns, elevated energy prices, and geopolitical uncertainty. Markets rallied sharply after easing U.S.-Iran tensions pushed oil prices lower, supporting renewed risk appetite. Small-cap equities benefited significantly, with Information Technology, Industrials, and Health Care leading gains, while Energy declined as crude prices fell. Year to date, the Composite returned +23.7%, slightly ahead of the Russell 2000's +22.6% and well above the HFRI Equity Hedge Index's +9.7%. Additionally, you can review the Portfolio's top 5 holdings to see its best picks for 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Prosper Stars & Stripes highlighted TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) as the largest contributor to the portfolio's short book. TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) provides sales and support of purchase intent-driven advertising campaigns. On September 9, 2026, TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) closed at $3.89 per share. Over the past month, TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) returned 1.57% and its shares lost 35.17% over the past 52 weeks. TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) has a market capitalization of $281.37 million, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $3.37 to $7.15.
Prosper Stars & Stripes stated the following regarding TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) was the largest contributor to our short book during the quarter. The company monetizes the purchase research behavior of enterprise IT buyers by operating a network of websites where buyers register to consume technical content, then selling those intent signals as leads to IT vendors. We first shorted the company after it completed a value-destroying acquisition in December 2024 that led to significant impairment charges in Q1 2025 and again in Q1 2026. We believe AI is likely to dismantle search-based discovery and commoditize content, the two pillars of TechTarget's value propositions. Results have validated our concerns, with management describing its market as mature, with 2% to 3% top-line growth, and EBITDA margins that peaked in 2022 falling to 7% in Q1 2026. Notably, revenue growth began deteriorating before ChatGPT launched in November 2022, suggesting that problems run deeper than AI alone. We continue to believe generative AI will weigh on TechTarget's prospects and remain short the company."
#techtarget #NASDAQ
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Prosper Stars & Stripes highlighted TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) as the largest contributor to the portfolio's short book. TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) provides sales and support of purchase intent-driven advertising campaigns. On September 9, 2026, TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) closed at $3.89 per share. Over the past month, TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) returned 1.57% and its shares lost 35.17% over the past 52 weeks. TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) has a market capitalization of $281.37 million, and its stock has traded within a 52-week range of $3.37 to $7.15.
Prosper Stars & Stripes stated the following regarding TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"TechTarget, Inc. (NASDAQ:TTGT) was the largest contributor to our short book during the quarter. The company monetizes the purchase research behavior of enterprise IT buyers by operating a network of websites where buyers register to consume technical content, then selling those intent signals as leads to IT vendors. We first shorted the company after it completed a value-destroying acquisition in December 2024 that led to significant impairment charges in Q1 2025 and again in Q1 2026. We believe AI is likely to dismantle search-based discovery and commoditize content, the two pillars of TechTarget's value propositions. Results have validated our concerns, with management describing its market as mature, with 2% to 3% top-line growth, and EBITDA margins that peaked in 2022 falling to 7% in Q1 2026. Notably, revenue growth began deteriorating before ChatGPT launched in November 2022, suggesting that problems run deeper than AI alone. We continue to believe generative AI will weigh on TechTarget's prospects and remain short the company."
#techtarget #NASDAQ
9 days ago
Our ***** ysts just identified a stock with the potential to be the next Nvidia. Tell us how you invest and we'll show you why it's our #1 pick. Tap here.
Management attributes the sequential improvement in comparable sales to enhanced digital conversion and the successful scaling of private brand franchises like THERMACHILL.
The company is navigating a structural shift in customer behavior driven by GLP-1 medication adoption, which has led to temporary pauses in apparel purchasing during weight loss journeys.
Performance was significantly bolstered by a $4.6 million IEEPA tariff refund, which masked a 70 basis point decline in underlying merchandise margins caused by higher markdowns and shipping surcharges.
Strategic focus has shifted toward 'Fit Authority' through the FITMAP initiative, which has scanned 150,000 customers and resulted in higher average order values and lower return rates.
#performance
Management attributes the sequential improvement in comparable sales to enhanced digital conversion and the successful scaling of private brand franchises like THERMACHILL.
The company is navigating a structural shift in customer behavior driven by GLP-1 medication adoption, which has led to temporary pauses in apparel purchasing during weight loss journeys.
Performance was significantly bolstered by a $4.6 million IEEPA tariff refund, which masked a 70 basis point decline in underlying merchandise margins caused by higher markdowns and shipping surcharges.
Strategic focus has shifted toward 'Fit Authority' through the FITMAP initiative, which has scanned 150,000 customers and resulted in higher average order values and lower return rates.
#performance
9 days ago
More than a dozen states have begun distributing millions of free eggs across local food banks following a settlement with three major producers over alleged collusion, but legal experts say this "unusual" remedy faces a logistical hurdle of making sure those eggs reach the American people.
"There are huge administrative problems with making sure that a settlement of this nature goes according to plan," Katherine Speegle, an antitrust lawyer and partner at Duane Morris, told Fortune.
In June, the U.S. Justice Department and 17 states settled a lawsuit alleging three major egg producers—Cal-Maine Foods, Versova, and Hickman's Egg Ranch—illegally colluded to inflate the price of eggs, which reached record heights last year. The complaint claimed the companies coordinated on bids submitted to Urner Barry Publications, which runs an index key that reports prices for grocery stores and restaurants.
Soaring egg prices became a key metric for how American consumers have experienced five years of above-trend inflation — with this case raising the prospect of collusive behavior on the egg front. None of the producers admitted to wrongdoing and maintained they acted legally.
"When powerful corporations collude behind the scenes to raise prices, working families suffer the costs," New York Attorney General Letitia James, who helped lead the investigation, said in a statement at the time. "These egg producers manipulated the market to squeeze even more profit out of consumers and businesses."
#states
"There are huge administrative problems with making sure that a settlement of this nature goes according to plan," Katherine Speegle, an antitrust lawyer and partner at Duane Morris, told Fortune.
In June, the U.S. Justice Department and 17 states settled a lawsuit alleging three major egg producers—Cal-Maine Foods, Versova, and Hickman's Egg Ranch—illegally colluded to inflate the price of eggs, which reached record heights last year. The complaint claimed the companies coordinated on bids submitted to Urner Barry Publications, which runs an index key that reports prices for grocery stores and restaurants.
Soaring egg prices became a key metric for how American consumers have experienced five years of above-trend inflation — with this case raising the prospect of collusive behavior on the egg front. None of the producers admitted to wrongdoing and maintained they acted legally.
"When powerful corporations collude behind the scenes to raise prices, working families suffer the costs," New York Attorney General Letitia James, who helped lead the investigation, said in a statement at the time. "These egg producers manipulated the market to squeeze even more profit out of consumers and businesses."
#states
11 days ago
A royal expert has reportedly slammed Prince Harry as a "hitman" and expressed serious reservations about whether he would reconcile with Prince William. For those unversed, Harry and Meghan flew privately from California to Birmingham on August 26. The Sussexes will reportedly stay in the UK for an extended period of time. Multiple reports hinted that they are doing this to get close to the royal family. However, King Charles clarified via an official statement that the Sussexes will remain private individuals.
Royal author Andrew Morton alleged that Prince Harry has broken the royal family's trust. Not only that, he shared that Harry's chances of a reconciliation with Prince William are slim. The author dished to the Daily Express: "I've always argued that William saw, and so did Diana; they saw Harry as his wingman, and now he's turned into a hitman. And that's something which struck me very forcibly."
Morton explained that William is the future heir to the throne, the future king. Meanwhile, Harry is meant to show him support, and everybody in the royal family was counting on that. Unfortunately, the brothers' bond is so strained now that, according to multiple sources, there is no contact.
Furthermore, on the podcast Heirs & Spares, host Kinsey Schofield and Rupert Bell discussed Morton's comment and the impact Harry's seemingly careless behavior had on the royal family. Schofield asked whether the Duke of Sussex realizes how "harmful and hurtful" this is. Bell agreed, saying that William was probably counting on his younger brother's support when he becomes king.
Bell criticized the Sussexes, stating that they are power-hungry and will not support the Waleses when need be. Interestingly, in a new development, Lord Chamberlain issued a letter on King Charles' behalf, clarifying that the Sussexes will not be working royals.
#harry
Royal author Andrew Morton alleged that Prince Harry has broken the royal family's trust. Not only that, he shared that Harry's chances of a reconciliation with Prince William are slim. The author dished to the Daily Express: "I've always argued that William saw, and so did Diana; they saw Harry as his wingman, and now he's turned into a hitman. And that's something which struck me very forcibly."
Morton explained that William is the future heir to the throne, the future king. Meanwhile, Harry is meant to show him support, and everybody in the royal family was counting on that. Unfortunately, the brothers' bond is so strained now that, according to multiple sources, there is no contact.
Furthermore, on the podcast Heirs & Spares, host Kinsey Schofield and Rupert Bell discussed Morton's comment and the impact Harry's seemingly careless behavior had on the royal family. Schofield asked whether the Duke of Sussex realizes how "harmful and hurtful" this is. Bell agreed, saying that William was probably counting on his younger brother's support when he becomes king.
Bell criticized the Sussexes, stating that they are power-hungry and will not support the Waleses when need be. Interestingly, in a new development, Lord Chamberlain issued a letter on King Charles' behalf, clarifying that the Sussexes will not be working royals.
#harry
12 days ago
Jack Doherty has been accused of targeting women described as "young and vulnerable" with promises of a glamorous lifestyle before allegedly taking a substantial share of the money they generated. Former employees claim the controversial YouTuber used his massive social media following to promote women selling adult content while exercising considerable control over their businesses. The allegations have resurfaced as Doherty faces heightened scrutiny following his recent arrest on a misdemeanor domestic battery charge in Florida.
Doherty built his online following through confrontational pranks, livestreams and increasingly outrageous public stunts. As his operation expanded, luxury cars, private jets and scantily clad models became a regular part of his content.
Former employee Matthew Gonzalez, a content creator who has worked with Jake Paul and MrBeast, reportedly spent approximately six months working for Doherty in 2023. "He did whatever he had to do to get views," Gonzalez told the Daily Mail.
Gonzalez claimed Doherty's controversial behavior helped him build a large audience of young viewers. According to the former employee, that following was later used to promote models who sold adult content.
The arrangement allegedly allowed Doherty to profit from both the public videos featuring the women and their separate subscription-based accounts.
#content #allegedly
Doherty built his online following through confrontational pranks, livestreams and increasingly outrageous public stunts. As his operation expanded, luxury cars, private jets and scantily clad models became a regular part of his content.
Former employee Matthew Gonzalez, a content creator who has worked with Jake Paul and MrBeast, reportedly spent approximately six months working for Doherty in 2023. "He did whatever he had to do to get views," Gonzalez told the Daily Mail.
Gonzalez claimed Doherty's controversial behavior helped him build a large audience of young viewers. According to the former employee, that following was later used to promote models who sold adult content.
The arrangement allegedly allowed Doherty to profit from both the public videos featuring the women and their separate subscription-based accounts.
#content #allegedly
12 days ago
Now that Meghan Markle is back in the UK, there's a lot of interest in if she'll be keeping some of her Hollywood connections. A lot of big celebrities attended her wedding with Prince Harry, but not many were seen in the years after as they were living in the UK. Has the time in the US changed that?
Reportedly, not so much. At least not for one particular person. Markle was allegedly interested in having tea with Beyoncé and Jay-Z, who are in London for Jay-Z's Tottenham Hotspur Stadium shows. And yet no plans materialized for a meeting, casual or otherwise.
More from StyleCaster
Meghan Accused of More Controversial Diana Behavior After Claims of Her 'Vulgar Act' at Harry's Late Mom's Gravesite
Meghan Reportedly Refusing to 'Bow' to Kate When She Becomes Queen Amid Their 'Hostility'-She's Not Going to 'Beg for Forgiveness'
#reportedly #prince #harry #hotspur
Reportedly, not so much. At least not for one particular person. Markle was allegedly interested in having tea with Beyoncé and Jay-Z, who are in London for Jay-Z's Tottenham Hotspur Stadium shows. And yet no plans materialized for a meeting, casual or otherwise.
More from StyleCaster
Meghan Accused of More Controversial Diana Behavior After Claims of Her 'Vulgar Act' at Harry's Late Mom's Gravesite
Meghan Reportedly Refusing to 'Bow' to Kate When She Becomes Queen Amid Their 'Hostility'-She's Not Going to 'Beg for Forgiveness'
#reportedly #prince #harry #hotspur
13 days ago
Conagra and Campbell's already cut dividends, and Kraft Heinz, General Mills, and Hormel now show frozen or token raises. These are the same warning signs.
General Mills touts 127 uninterrupted dividend years, but its $0.61 quarterly rate has flatlined for four straight declarations while free cash flow dropped 29%.
McCormick raised its quarterly dividend to $0.48 and covers its $483 million payout with nearly $1 billion in operating cash flow, despite a 25% stock decline.
Just released. Our ****** ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now, and Kraft Heinz didn't make the cut. Enter your email to see the names that beat KHC. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Two big packaged-food dividends have already been cut this cycle. Conagra Brands (NYSE:CAG) reduced its payout, and Campbell's (NYSE:CPB) followed with its own reduction shortly after. Those completed actions frame what income holders should look for in the aisle next. Below are four legacy food names where dividend behavior deserves a closer look.
#kraft #mills
General Mills touts 127 uninterrupted dividend years, but its $0.61 quarterly rate has flatlined for four straight declarations while free cash flow dropped 29%.
McCormick raised its quarterly dividend to $0.48 and covers its $483 million payout with nearly $1 billion in operating cash flow, despite a 25% stock decline.
Just released. Our ****** ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now, and Kraft Heinz didn't make the cut. Enter your email to see the names that beat KHC. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Two big packaged-food dividends have already been cut this cycle. Conagra Brands (NYSE:CAG) reduced its payout, and Campbell's (NYSE:CPB) followed with its own reduction shortly after. Those completed actions frame what income holders should look for in the aisle next. Below are four legacy food names where dividend behavior deserves a closer look.
#kraft #mills
13 days ago
On the basis of its price right now relative to where it was at the same point in its prior four-year market cycles, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) looks pretty cheap, with a price of $77,155 as of Sept. 1, 38% below its last all-time high near $126,080, which was set in October 2025.
Of course, Bitcoin "cycle theory" isn't an empirically proven law, but it can be a useful framework for understanding the coin's behavior relative to past periods. If we take that caveat in stride, there's reason to believe decent returns await those who buy it now, so let's examine the case for it being priced at a bargain.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Bitcoin miners are businesses that lend their computing power to the network to produce new coins by essentially burning electricity on difficult calculations.
When the coin's price drops below its production cost, such as during a bear market, the least efficient miners have to capitulate and shut down their rigs to stop operating at a loss, and the network's total computing power, called the hash rate, declines. If the hash rate declines by too much, it takes longer for each new block to be mined, which triggers an automatic downward adjustment to the protocol's mining difficulty. Then, when mining becomes a bit easier again, the recently discouraged operators can return, as they're more likely to be profitable with a lower mining difficulty, and more Bitcoin is subsequently produced.
#Bitcoin #mining
Of course, Bitcoin "cycle theory" isn't an empirically proven law, but it can be a useful framework for understanding the coin's behavior relative to past periods. If we take that caveat in stride, there's reason to believe decent returns await those who buy it now, so let's examine the case for it being priced at a bargain.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Bitcoin miners are businesses that lend their computing power to the network to produce new coins by essentially burning electricity on difficult calculations.
When the coin's price drops below its production cost, such as during a bear market, the least efficient miners have to capitulate and shut down their rigs to stop operating at a loss, and the network's total computing power, called the hash rate, declines. If the hash rate declines by too much, it takes longer for each new block to be mined, which triggers an automatic downward adjustment to the protocol's mining difficulty. Then, when mining becomes a bit easier again, the recently discouraged operators can return, as they're more likely to be profitable with a lower mining difficulty, and more Bitcoin is subsequently produced.
#Bitcoin #mining
13 days ago
I spend a lot of time ***** yzing exchange-traded funds (ETFs) here. And while you might think that's because I've ***** yzed those securities individually for a long time (I have), the thing about ETF ***** ysis is this: if you do enough of it, for enough years, you start to see patterns of behavior. And while they don't always immediately say "buy this" or "sell this," they do something I think is at least as important to traders and investors.
ETFs can help us figure out when early risk has a shot of becoming big risk. Which often leads to big losses. And I'm all about minimizing that.
Why It's Time to Load Up on SoFi Stock
A $1.4 Billion Reason to Buy GameStop Stock Now
TIME Left Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Off Its 100 Most Influential People in AI List — But Paris Hilton and Ben Affleck Made the Cut
#etfs #risk #load
ETFs can help us figure out when early risk has a shot of becoming big risk. Which often leads to big losses. And I'm all about minimizing that.
Why It's Time to Load Up on SoFi Stock
A $1.4 Billion Reason to Buy GameStop Stock Now
TIME Left Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Off Its 100 Most Influential People in AI List — But Paris Hilton and Ben Affleck Made the Cut
#etfs #risk #load
14 days ago
United Rentals Inc.'s (NYSE:URI) AI-enabled Equipment Agent facilitates customers within the equipment rental industry in comparing and selecting equipment and machinery in line with their project requirements. As per United Rentals' management, it has led to a 70% enhancement in users' ability to find equipment that fits their specific needs. The company decided to capitalize on that momentum by expanding its availability to ChatGPT, which made it the first equipment rental application available on ChatGPT store.
Copyright: Kurhan / 123RF Stock Photo
There are several strategic benefits of such innovation for United Rentals. The Equipment Agent solidifies the company's digital ecosystem by integrating its expertise and large equipment rental fleet with accessible, user-friendly and intelligent tools built according to customer needs. It enables customers to work with an engaging conversation-based system, instead of depending on conventional filter-based search methodologies. Moreover, the system is designed to make suggestions similar to the ones shared by equipment experts.
The tool supports efficient rental decision-making by streamlining the overall equipment discovery process for customers, and helping them move from planning to execution. Such capabilities come from decades of jobsite experience and fleet know-how, based on real customer questions. The tool has been tested extensively by the company's sales and equipment specialists. User experience from research to reservation is highly seamless as they are directed to detailed product pages on the company website, once a recommendation is generated.
Integration into ChatGPT further extends the tool's visibility beyond United Rentals' existing digital channels, which enables the company to serve customers across its various existing platforms. Such expansion will also offer usage data and related insights around customer behavior.
#customer #agent
Copyright: Kurhan / 123RF Stock Photo
There are several strategic benefits of such innovation for United Rentals. The Equipment Agent solidifies the company's digital ecosystem by integrating its expertise and large equipment rental fleet with accessible, user-friendly and intelligent tools built according to customer needs. It enables customers to work with an engaging conversation-based system, instead of depending on conventional filter-based search methodologies. Moreover, the system is designed to make suggestions similar to the ones shared by equipment experts.
The tool supports efficient rental decision-making by streamlining the overall equipment discovery process for customers, and helping them move from planning to execution. Such capabilities come from decades of jobsite experience and fleet know-how, based on real customer questions. The tool has been tested extensively by the company's sales and equipment specialists. User experience from research to reservation is highly seamless as they are directed to detailed product pages on the company website, once a recommendation is generated.
Integration into ChatGPT further extends the tool's visibility beyond United Rentals' existing digital channels, which enables the company to serve customers across its various existing platforms. Such expansion will also offer usage data and related insights around customer behavior.
#customer #agent
14 days ago
Conagra and Campbell's already cut dividends, and Kraft Heinz, General Mills, and Hormel now show frozen or token raises. These are the same warning signs.
General Mills touts 127 uninterrupted dividend years, but its $0.61 quarterly rate has flatlined for four straight declarations while free cash flow dropped 29%.
McCormick raised its quarterly dividend to $0.48 and covers its $483 million payout with nearly $1 billion in operating cash flow, despite a 25% stock decline.
Just released. Our ******* ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now, and Kraft Heinz didn't make the cut. Enter your email to see the names that beat KHC. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Two big packaged-food dividends have already been cut this cycle. Conagra Brands (NYSE:CAG) reduced its payout, and Campbell's (NYSE:CPB) followed with its own reduction shortly after. Those completed actions frame what income holders should look for in the aisle next. Below are four legacy food names where dividend behavior deserves a closer look.
#kraft
General Mills touts 127 uninterrupted dividend years, but its $0.61 quarterly rate has flatlined for four straight declarations while free cash flow dropped 29%.
McCormick raised its quarterly dividend to $0.48 and covers its $483 million payout with nearly $1 billion in operating cash flow, despite a 25% stock decline.
Just released. Our ******* ysts combed the entire stock market and named the ten best stocks to buy right now, and Kraft Heinz didn't make the cut. Enter your email to see the names that beat KHC. The report is free. Enter your email and see if any of your stocks made the cut.
Two big packaged-food dividends have already been cut this cycle. Conagra Brands (NYSE:CAG) reduced its payout, and Campbell's (NYSE:CPB) followed with its own reduction shortly after. Those completed actions frame what income holders should look for in the aisle next. Below are four legacy food names where dividend behavior deserves a closer look.
#kraft
14 days ago
On the basis of its price right now relative to where it was at the same point in its prior four-year market cycles, Bitcoin (CRYPTO: BTC) looks pretty cheap, with a price of $77,155 as of Sept. 1, 38% below its last all-time high near $126,080, which was set in October 2025.
Of course, Bitcoin "cycle theory" isn't an empirically proven law, but it can be a useful framework for understanding the coin's behavior relative to past periods. If we take that caveat in stride, there's reason to believe decent returns await those who buy it now, so let's examine the case for it being priced at a bargain.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Bitcoin miners are businesses that lend their computing power to the network to produce new coins by essentially burning electricity on difficult calculations.
When the coin's price drops below its production cost, such as during a bear market, the least efficient miners have to capitulate and shut down their rigs to stop operating at a loss, and the network's total computing power, called the hash rate, declines. If the hash rate declines by too much, it takes longer for each new block to be mined, which triggers an automatic downward adjustment to the protocol's mining difficulty. Then, when mining becomes a bit easier again, the recently discouraged operators can return, as they're more likely to be profitable with a lower mining difficulty, and more Bitcoin is subsequently produced.
#Bitcoin #flashing #same
Of course, Bitcoin "cycle theory" isn't an empirically proven law, but it can be a useful framework for understanding the coin's behavior relative to past periods. If we take that caveat in stride, there's reason to believe decent returns await those who buy it now, so let's examine the case for it being priced at a bargain.
Missed Nvidia in 2009? This Rare Signal Is Flashing Again. In 2009, a "Double Down" signal flashed for a little-known chipmaker called Nvidia. For the first time in years, that same "Total Conviction" signal is flashing for a company 1/100th the size of Nvidia. Continue »
Bitcoin miners are businesses that lend their computing power to the network to produce new coins by essentially burning electricity on difficult calculations.
When the coin's price drops below its production cost, such as during a bear market, the least efficient miners have to capitulate and shut down their rigs to stop operating at a loss, and the network's total computing power, called the hash rate, declines. If the hash rate declines by too much, it takes longer for each new block to be mined, which triggers an automatic downward adjustment to the protocol's mining difficulty. Then, when mining becomes a bit easier again, the recently discouraged operators can return, as they're more likely to be profitable with a lower mining difficulty, and more Bitcoin is subsequently produced.
#Bitcoin #flashing #same
15 days ago
Jefferies reiterated a Hold rating on Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE) and raised the price target to $285 from $230 on August 30, citing expectations that the company will deliver results in line with expectations. The research firm has echoed the company's long-term prospects amid heightened focus on user acquisition and engagement.
During the second-quarter earnings call, management reiterated the new focus in response to the way artificial intelligence is changing the way users discover and buy creative and productivity tools. According to CEO Shantanu Narayen, AI is accelerating customer behavior, and Adobe must respond.
Therefore, the focus is on enabling friction-free onboarding for new users through "freemium" artificial intelligence offerings, rather than pushing them into direct paid journeys. Amid the new push, Jefferies expects Adobe to reiterate its fiscal 2026 outlook for 10.2% year-over-year growth in total ending ARR. The company also expects revenue of between $26.5 billion and $26.6 billion for fiscal 2026.
Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE)'s opportunity hinges on its ability to turn Firefly, Acrobat AI, and AI-powered Creative Cloud features into monetized products, even as it focuses on attracting new users and enhancing engagement levels. The company is already seeing increasing Firefly adoption and AI-first ARR as Creative Cloud's huge installed base gives it millions of potential new AI customers.
Earlier on August 19, BofA reiterated an Underperform rating on Adobe and raised the price target to $220 from $190. BofA remains concerned that generative AI could pressure Adobe's longer-term growth as lower-cost, AI-native alternatives increase competition and Adobe's AI monetization has yet to materially accelerate overall growth. Additionally, its core products, including Photoshop, are under immense pressure from AI. Free or low cost AI native tools are making it harder for the company to expand its revenue base.
#adobe #creative #users #jefferies
During the second-quarter earnings call, management reiterated the new focus in response to the way artificial intelligence is changing the way users discover and buy creative and productivity tools. According to CEO Shantanu Narayen, AI is accelerating customer behavior, and Adobe must respond.
Therefore, the focus is on enabling friction-free onboarding for new users through "freemium" artificial intelligence offerings, rather than pushing them into direct paid journeys. Amid the new push, Jefferies expects Adobe to reiterate its fiscal 2026 outlook for 10.2% year-over-year growth in total ending ARR. The company also expects revenue of between $26.5 billion and $26.6 billion for fiscal 2026.
Adobe Inc. (NASDAQ:ADBE)'s opportunity hinges on its ability to turn Firefly, Acrobat AI, and AI-powered Creative Cloud features into monetized products, even as it focuses on attracting new users and enhancing engagement levels. The company is already seeing increasing Firefly adoption and AI-first ARR as Creative Cloud's huge installed base gives it millions of potential new AI customers.
Earlier on August 19, BofA reiterated an Underperform rating on Adobe and raised the price target to $220 from $190. BofA remains concerned that generative AI could pressure Adobe's longer-term growth as lower-cost, AI-native alternatives increase competition and Adobe's AI monetization has yet to materially accelerate overall growth. Additionally, its core products, including Photoshop, are under immense pressure from AI. Free or low cost AI native tools are making it harder for the company to expand its revenue base.
#adobe #creative #users #jefferies
15 days ago
A trade group representing American automakers is urging Congress to permanently bar the sale of Chinese vehicles in the U.S.
In a letter to senior lawmakers, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation on Thursday called on them to "enact a permanent ban on the sale, import and manufacture of Chinese connected vehicles, hardware and software" in the U.S., citing China's alleged unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft and pattern of surveillance.
"This behavior is a feature of the Chinese approach and especially acute when it comes to China's strategy to dominate global automotive manufacturing and critical supply chains," wrote the group's president and CEO, John Bozzella.
Bozzella also said that non-Chinese automakers are unfairly disadvantaged by China's industrial and manufacturing policy, which the car industry group said threatens to undermine the U.S. automotive manufacturing sector.
U.S. automakers face mounting competition from Chinese rivals, including BYD, which is exporting more low-cost vehicles worldwide.
#automotive #sale
In a letter to senior lawmakers, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation on Thursday called on them to "enact a permanent ban on the sale, import and manufacture of Chinese connected vehicles, hardware and software" in the U.S., citing China's alleged unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft and pattern of surveillance.
"This behavior is a feature of the Chinese approach and especially acute when it comes to China's strategy to dominate global automotive manufacturing and critical supply chains," wrote the group's president and CEO, John Bozzella.
Bozzella also said that non-Chinese automakers are unfairly disadvantaged by China's industrial and manufacturing policy, which the car industry group said threatens to undermine the U.S. automotive manufacturing sector.
U.S. automakers face mounting competition from Chinese rivals, including BYD, which is exporting more low-cost vehicles worldwide.
#automotive #sale
15 days ago
Andvari ****** ociates, an investment management firm, released its second-quarter 2026 investor letter. The letter can be downloaded here. Andvari's portfolio has performed strongly in the quarter, highlighted by Constellation Software's 19.9% revenue growth and its plans to spend on acquisitions in 2026. The company is also focusing on AI tools to enhance productivity and customer relationships. However, the AI sector is experiencing extreme hype, leading to a growing disconnect between valuations and future cash flows. Predictions suggest the AI investment phase may decline in 1-3 years, despite current high demand for AI infrastructure, which is expected to attract significant competition. Concerns about overbuilding and risky financial behaviors, like Oracle's downgraded credit rating amid a $90-$95 billion AI cloud investment, reflect potential pitfalls. Andvari has minimized exposure to this sector, aiming to protect and grow ****** ets through disciplined investments in stable industries despite recent underperformance during the AI boom. Also, check the fund's top five holdings to see its best picks in 2026.
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Andvari ****** ociates highlighted Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN), a semiconductor manufacturer providing chips and solutions for electronics designers and manufacturers. On September 02, 2026, Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) closed at $254.80 per share. Over the past month, Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) fell 8.48%, while its shares gained 36.05% over the past 52 weeks. Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) has a market capitalization of $232.7 billion.
Andvari ****** ociates stated the following regarding Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"I also added Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN), which makes ****** og and power management chips. Texas Instruments and Martin Marietta might be getting a nice temporary ****** p in profits and revenues from helping build out AI infrastructure, but AI and data center-related revenues are by no means the majority of revenues for either of these two companies."
Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 111 hedge fund portfolios held Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) at the end of the second quarter, up from 71 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#andvari
In its second-quarter 2026 investor letter, Andvari ****** ociates highlighted Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN), a semiconductor manufacturer providing chips and solutions for electronics designers and manufacturers. On September 02, 2026, Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) closed at $254.80 per share. Over the past month, Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) fell 8.48%, while its shares gained 36.05% over the past 52 weeks. Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) has a market capitalization of $232.7 billion.
Andvari ****** ociates stated the following regarding Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) in its Q2 2026 investor letter:
"I also added Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN), which makes ****** og and power management chips. Texas Instruments and Martin Marietta might be getting a nice temporary ****** p in profits and revenues from helping build out AI infrastructure, but AI and data center-related revenues are by no means the majority of revenues for either of these two companies."
Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) is not on our list of 40 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds Heading Into 2026. According to our database, 111 hedge fund portfolios held Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) at the end of the second quarter, up from 71 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of Texas Instruments Incorporated (NASDAQ:TXN) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
#andvari
