3 days ago
Meghan Markle's half-sister, Samantha Markle, has accused their brother, Thomas Markle Jr., of trying to "destroy" their father, Thomas Markle Sr. Her allegations come as the 82-year-old former television lighting and photography director faces an investigation in the Philippines over allegations that he possessed child ***** ual abuse material.
As reported by The Sun, Markle Jr. discovered the material at their father's home in the Philippines and alerted the police, prompting the authorities to investigate the matter.
Meghan Markle's half-sister, Samantha Markle, has accused their brother, Thomas Markle Jr., of wanting to "destroy" their father, Thomas Markle Sr., amid an ongoing investigation into allegations that he possessed child ***** ual abuse material. According to the Daily Mail, the ***** ss of Sussex's father has denied the allegations, describing them as "sick lies."
Meanwhile, Samantha has publicly defended her father and hit back at Thomas Markle Jr., calling him a "liar" and the allegations against their dad "disgusting." Speaking to the Daily Mail, Meghan's half-sister dismissed the accusations and questioned her brother's motives. "There is no merit in these disgusting allegations whatsoever and my brother is disgusting for making them up. He wants to destroy our dad. Shame on him," she claimed.
Samantha further alleged that her brother's accusations were motivated by financial gain. According to her, the dispute began after their father stopped providing him with money. She told the publication, "My brother first came out with these lies a few weeks ago when the cash from my dad was cut off. He has used dad as a cash cow for years, and once the money stopped, he made up the most outrageous lies he could to try and make money from the media."
#brother #sister
As reported by The Sun, Markle Jr. discovered the material at their father's home in the Philippines and alerted the police, prompting the authorities to investigate the matter.
Meghan Markle's half-sister, Samantha Markle, has accused their brother, Thomas Markle Jr., of wanting to "destroy" their father, Thomas Markle Sr., amid an ongoing investigation into allegations that he possessed child ***** ual abuse material. According to the Daily Mail, the ***** ss of Sussex's father has denied the allegations, describing them as "sick lies."
Meanwhile, Samantha has publicly defended her father and hit back at Thomas Markle Jr., calling him a "liar" and the allegations against their dad "disgusting." Speaking to the Daily Mail, Meghan's half-sister dismissed the accusations and questioned her brother's motives. "There is no merit in these disgusting allegations whatsoever and my brother is disgusting for making them up. He wants to destroy our dad. Shame on him," she claimed.
Samantha further alleged that her brother's accusations were motivated by financial gain. According to her, the dispute began after their father stopped providing him with money. She told the publication, "My brother first came out with these lies a few weeks ago when the cash from my dad was cut off. He has used dad as a cash cow for years, and once the money stopped, he made up the most outrageous lies he could to try and make money from the media."
#brother #sister
3 days ago
Hannah Waddingham reacted to Prince William's secret DJ name after the Prince of Wales revealed two career paths he once dreamed of pursuing. William admitted that he went through a phase when he wanted to become a DJ, although things did not quite work out as planned. During his recent appearance, he also discussed his viral selfie with his children, Travis Kelce, and Taylor Swift.
During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Prince William revealed two career paths he considered pursuing when he was younger. The Prince of Wales shared that he once dreamed of becoming a police officer and also hoped to explore a career as a DJ.
"I did want to be a policeman when I was younger; I did think I would be a good policeman," he admitted. William then recalled his brief aspirations of becoming a DJ, a dream that never materialized. However, he had already picked out a stage name for himself.
"I was called DJ Xara with an X. It wasn't good," William said with a laugh. Hannah Waddingham initially thought he meant "DJ Zara," but she was not impressed with the name either. "That's rubbish," she responded. Cate Blanchett also joined in on the fun, teasing the Prince of Wales about his former DJ ambitions. She asked whether his X-shaped hand gesture was one of his signature DJ moves.
During his appearance, William also reflected on the viral backstage selfie with Taylor Swift during her 2024 Eras Tour. The Prince of Wales jokingly admitted that he had tried to keep Travis Kelce out of the picture.
#travis
During an appearance on The Graham Norton Show, Prince William revealed two career paths he considered pursuing when he was younger. The Prince of Wales shared that he once dreamed of becoming a police officer and also hoped to explore a career as a DJ.
"I did want to be a policeman when I was younger; I did think I would be a good policeman," he admitted. William then recalled his brief aspirations of becoming a DJ, a dream that never materialized. However, he had already picked out a stage name for himself.
"I was called DJ Xara with an X. It wasn't good," William said with a laugh. Hannah Waddingham initially thought he meant "DJ Zara," but she was not impressed with the name either. "That's rubbish," she responded. Cate Blanchett also joined in on the fun, teasing the Prince of Wales about his former DJ ambitions. She asked whether his X-shaped hand gesture was one of his signature DJ moves.
During his appearance, William also reflected on the viral backstage selfie with Taylor Swift during her 2024 Eras Tour. The Prince of Wales jokingly admitted that he had tried to keep Travis Kelce out of the picture.
#travis
10 days ago
Shortly after England's disappointing defeat by Argentina at this summer's World Cup, boss Thomas Tuchel offered his view on why the Three Lions are struggling to win major tournaments.
"I think ball possession plays a crucial role," he said.
"It's maybe not in our DNA like it is in the Spanish DNA or Argentinian or Brazilian DNA to take the ball, control the game and the ball, which is also a big problem."
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), in scientific terms, usually refers to the master blueprint for life - the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms.
In football, the DNA of a team starts out at grassroots level, where young players are shaped and developed.
#World #tuchel
"I think ball possession plays a crucial role," he said.
"It's maybe not in our DNA like it is in the Spanish DNA or Argentinian or Brazilian DNA to take the ball, control the game and the ball, which is also a big problem."
DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid), in scientific terms, usually refers to the master blueprint for life - the hereditary material in humans and almost all other organisms.
In football, the DNA of a team starts out at grassroots level, where young players are shaped and developed.
#World #tuchel
20 days ago
Will Arnett says unfiltered comments on SmartLess have sometimes led to misleading headlines
His podcast experience unexpectedly helped shape his role in the thriller Behemoth!
Arnett recorded rough podcast material for director Tony Gilroy, who used it in the finished film
Will Arnett has learned that when it comes to podcasting, sometimes less is more.
The actor, 56, who stars in the new thriller Behemoth!, has spent the past several years getting candid with cohosts Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes on their hit podcast SmartLess. But after years of chatting with everyone from Hollywood heavyweights to longtime friends, Arnett has picked up one particularly important lesson: He probably shouldn't say everything that crosses his mind.
#arnett #sometimes #gilroy
His podcast experience unexpectedly helped shape his role in the thriller Behemoth!
Arnett recorded rough podcast material for director Tony Gilroy, who used it in the finished film
Will Arnett has learned that when it comes to podcasting, sometimes less is more.
The actor, 56, who stars in the new thriller Behemoth!, has spent the past several years getting candid with cohosts Jason Bateman and Sean Hayes on their hit podcast SmartLess. But after years of chatting with everyone from Hollywood heavyweights to longtime friends, Arnett has picked up one particularly important lesson: He probably shouldn't say everything that crosses his mind.
#arnett #sometimes #gilroy
20 days ago
Amcor plc (NYSE:AMCR) isn't a flashy business. Most people probably don't know much about the company, even though they come across its products every day. The company makes the packaging used for food, drinks, healthcare products, beauty products, and plenty of other everyday items.
That gives the company an interesting quality from an investment perspective. Consumers may cut back on certain purchases when the economy gets tougher, but they still need to buy food, medicine, and other basic products. About 60% of Amcor's markets are tied to nutrition, while health, beauty, and wellness make up another 25%. Billionaires are gravitating towards another packaging company, and that has also returned nearly 20% in the past year. Find here.
The company's size is another advantage. Amcor operates across a large global manufacturing network and has relationships with major customers that have been built over many years. It also offers a wide range of packaging formats and materials. For a large multinational customer, being able to deal with one supplier across multiple markets can be a meaningful advantage. The Berry Global acquisition has made Amcor even larger, although it also brought more debt onto the balance sheet.
Amcor plc (NYSE:AMCR) pays $0.65 per share every quarter, giving investors an annual dividend of $2.60. At the October 7 closing price of $41.26, that works out to a yield of about 6.3%. That's a big yield for a company selling products that are tied to everyday consumption. However, a high yield doesn't automatically make a dividend attractive. What matters is whether the business can actually afford to keep paying it. Amcor's latest numbers offer some comfort. Its steady dividend growth is one reason the stock remains popular with income-focused investors.
The company generated $1.303 billion in free cash flow during fiscal 2026, while adjusted diluted EPS came in at $4.02, up 13% from the previous year. Amcor also increased its annual dividend to $2.60. On an adjusted earnings basis, the payout ratio is around 65%. That's not unusual for a mature company and doesn't immediately raise a red flag.
#NYSE
That gives the company an interesting quality from an investment perspective. Consumers may cut back on certain purchases when the economy gets tougher, but they still need to buy food, medicine, and other basic products. About 60% of Amcor's markets are tied to nutrition, while health, beauty, and wellness make up another 25%. Billionaires are gravitating towards another packaging company, and that has also returned nearly 20% in the past year. Find here.
The company's size is another advantage. Amcor operates across a large global manufacturing network and has relationships with major customers that have been built over many years. It also offers a wide range of packaging formats and materials. For a large multinational customer, being able to deal with one supplier across multiple markets can be a meaningful advantage. The Berry Global acquisition has made Amcor even larger, although it also brought more debt onto the balance sheet.
Amcor plc (NYSE:AMCR) pays $0.65 per share every quarter, giving investors an annual dividend of $2.60. At the October 7 closing price of $41.26, that works out to a yield of about 6.3%. That's a big yield for a company selling products that are tied to everyday consumption. However, a high yield doesn't automatically make a dividend attractive. What matters is whether the business can actually afford to keep paying it. Amcor's latest numbers offer some comfort. Its steady dividend growth is one reason the stock remains popular with income-focused investors.
The company generated $1.303 billion in free cash flow during fiscal 2026, while adjusted diluted EPS came in at $4.02, up 13% from the previous year. Amcor also increased its annual dividend to $2.60. On an adjusted earnings basis, the payout ratio is around 65%. That's not unusual for a mature company and doesn't immediately raise a red flag.
#NYSE
20 days ago
One of Andrew Tate's accusers says he convinced her to move to Romania by telling her she would be able to decide whether she participated in webcam work. According to newly public extradition materials, she says that choice disappeared after she arrived.
The woman alleges that she began working 12-hour shifts while Tate, his brother Tristan Tate and others controlled conversations with paying customers and accepted money for ***** ual acts she says she had never agreed to perform. TMZ reported the specific allegations from court documents filed as Britain seeks to extradite the brothers from the United States.
She says she had set explicit boundaries around what she would and would not do but was pressured into acts outside those limits, including one degrading act involving a bed fixture that allegedly continued for about an hour. The woman described her overall experience as feeling like "sexual slavery." The allegations have not been proven in court.
U.K. investigators allege the brothers used romantic relationships to draw women to Romania before using financial control, intimidation and violence to exploit them through online ***** ual content. The brothers deny wrongdoing and are fighting extradition from federal custody in Miami.
According to the documents described by TMZ, the woman says Tate persuaded her to relocate to Romania in 2017. The woman says she that Tate, Tristan and other people involved in the operation controlled communications with customers.
#sexual #tristan #controlled
The woman alleges that she began working 12-hour shifts while Tate, his brother Tristan Tate and others controlled conversations with paying customers and accepted money for ***** ual acts she says she had never agreed to perform. TMZ reported the specific allegations from court documents filed as Britain seeks to extradite the brothers from the United States.
She says she had set explicit boundaries around what she would and would not do but was pressured into acts outside those limits, including one degrading act involving a bed fixture that allegedly continued for about an hour. The woman described her overall experience as feeling like "sexual slavery." The allegations have not been proven in court.
U.K. investigators allege the brothers used romantic relationships to draw women to Romania before using financial control, intimidation and violence to exploit them through online ***** ual content. The brothers deny wrongdoing and are fighting extradition from federal custody in Miami.
According to the documents described by TMZ, the woman says Tate persuaded her to relocate to Romania in 2017. The woman says she that Tate, Tristan and other people involved in the operation controlled communications with customers.
#sexual #tristan #controlled
20 days ago
A TikToker says many single ladies ask her how to find and keep a good husband, and she gets offended when the creator shares her thoughts.
In her TikTok post, she recounted an encounter where a single lady asked her this question.
The creator, matrixunni, follows a traditional approach to relationship counseling. According to her, ladies should work on themselves to become better companions in marriage. She also suggests finding guys who are stronger in the areas where a lady feels lacking, and focusing on men's emotional stability and commitment rather than material aspects.
Matrixunni, 27, says her marriage is the main reason women visit her channel for advice.
"As a 27-year-old woman that is married to literally the love of my life, like, when people are around us, they know that we are meant to be," Matrixunni said in the video. "When they see me, they see him. When they see him, they see me. We have literally morphed and become one for real, right?"
#marriage
In her TikTok post, she recounted an encounter where a single lady asked her this question.
The creator, matrixunni, follows a traditional approach to relationship counseling. According to her, ladies should work on themselves to become better companions in marriage. She also suggests finding guys who are stronger in the areas where a lady feels lacking, and focusing on men's emotional stability and commitment rather than material aspects.
Matrixunni, 27, says her marriage is the main reason women visit her channel for advice.
"As a 27-year-old woman that is married to literally the love of my life, like, when people are around us, they know that we are meant to be," Matrixunni said in the video. "When they see me, they see him. When they see him, they see me. We have literally morphed and become one for real, right?"
#marriage
21 days ago
Slayyyter appeared on Late Night with Seth Meyers to discuss her newly announced album wor$t man in america, but her love of vintage showgirl costumes also became part of the conversation. She shared that an old French cabaret costume she had worn for a music video apparently contained hazardous materials and gave her a rash.
Lloyd Bishop/NBC
The showgirl context is really key to understanding why this MYAT Fall 2026 dress was chosen.
The distressed pleated silk is formed to create a showgirl silhouette through the fitted strapless bodice, high-low hemline and dramatic trailing volume. I don't feel that it looks like a literal costume, but I'm sure many will strongly disagree.
It's fun and playful, and it leans into what she loves, with MIRAKI jewels and decorative Jimmy Choo Sacora sandals adding even more personality without competing with the dress.
#dress
Lloyd Bishop/NBC
The showgirl context is really key to understanding why this MYAT Fall 2026 dress was chosen.
The distressed pleated silk is formed to create a showgirl silhouette through the fitted strapless bodice, high-low hemline and dramatic trailing volume. I don't feel that it looks like a literal costume, but I'm sure many will strongly disagree.
It's fun and playful, and it leans into what she loves, with MIRAKI jewels and decorative Jimmy Choo Sacora sandals adding even more personality without competing with the dress.
#dress
22 days ago
Kaley Cuoco posted a funny photo on Instagram of herself eating food off her baby **** p
The 40-year-old actress is expecting her second daughter with fiancé Tom Pelphrey
The couple announced their pregnancy news in June and recently shared maternity photos with Matilda and their dogs
Kaley Cuoco is making the most of her growing baby **** p!
On Tuesday, Oct. 6, the 40-year-old actress, who is expecting her second child with her fiancé, Tom Pelphrey, posted a funny photo on her Instagram Stories of herself eating food off her bare **** p.
#kaley
The 40-year-old actress is expecting her second daughter with fiancé Tom Pelphrey
The couple announced their pregnancy news in June and recently shared maternity photos with Matilda and their dogs
Kaley Cuoco is making the most of her growing baby **** p!
On Tuesday, Oct. 6, the 40-year-old actress, who is expecting her second child with her fiancé, Tom Pelphrey, posted a funny photo on her Instagram Stories of herself eating food off her bare **** p.
#kaley
22 days ago
In her latest Instagram montage, pregnant Ciara treats maternity wear as a fashion playground, moving from slouchy streetwear to sheer black lace in under 20 seconds. Throughout the video, Ciara keeps her baby **** p front and center, and the pregnant styling never feels like an afterthought. Some of her looks drape the **** p in oversized layers, while others put it fully on display.
Ciara owns maternity fashion, and she showcases it with confidence on her social media. The clip plays over "Yes (ATL)", Ciara's single with Young Dro. Her caption reads, "Baby, you a Boss not a Wannabe."
The montage opens with a relaxed look. Ciara wears a black sleeveless zip-up vest over loose black shorts with white side stripes, while chunky black boots and dark sunglasses complete the outfit.
Next comes a sleeker option. Ciara, visibly pregnant here, wears a soft grey maxi dress that traces her baby **** p before flaring outwards at the hem. A faded denim jacket rests on her shoulders, and a chunky chain-link necklace adds edge to the outfit. She also wears a pair of sunglasses and cradles her **** p.
A heavily pregnant Ciara then shows that maternity fashion can lean into grunge as easily as glamor. Her third look is tailored and understated. The 40-year-old poses in a stone courtyard, wearing a black **** on-up shirt, a black miniskirt, and dark loafers.
#ciara #fashion #look
Ciara owns maternity fashion, and she showcases it with confidence on her social media. The clip plays over "Yes (ATL)", Ciara's single with Young Dro. Her caption reads, "Baby, you a Boss not a Wannabe."
The montage opens with a relaxed look. Ciara wears a black sleeveless zip-up vest over loose black shorts with white side stripes, while chunky black boots and dark sunglasses complete the outfit.
Next comes a sleeker option. Ciara, visibly pregnant here, wears a soft grey maxi dress that traces her baby **** p before flaring outwards at the hem. A faded denim jacket rests on her shoulders, and a chunky chain-link necklace adds edge to the outfit. She also wears a pair of sunglasses and cradles her **** p.
A heavily pregnant Ciara then shows that maternity fashion can lean into grunge as easily as glamor. Her third look is tailored and understated. The 40-year-old poses in a stone courtyard, wearing a black **** on-up shirt, a black miniskirt, and dark loafers.
#ciara #fashion #look
22 days ago
In her latest Instagram montage, pregnant Ciara treats maternity wear as a fashion playground, moving from slouchy streetwear to sheer black lace in under 20 seconds. Throughout the video, Ciara keeps her baby ****** p front and center, and the pregnant styling never feels like an afterthought. Some of her looks drape the ****** p in oversized layers, while others put it fully on display.
Ciara owns maternity fashion, and she showcases it with confidence on her social media. The clip plays over "Yes (ATL)", Ciara's single with Young Dro. Her caption reads, "Baby, you a Boss not a Wannabe."
The montage opens with a relaxed look. Ciara wears a black sleeveless zip-up vest over loose black shorts with white side stripes, while chunky black boots and dark sunglasses complete the outfit.
Next comes a sleeker option. Ciara, visibly pregnant here, wears a soft grey maxi dress that traces her baby ****** p before flaring outwards at the hem. A faded denim jacket rests on her shoulders, and a chunky chain-link necklace adds edge to the outfit. She also wears a pair of sunglasses and cradles her ****** p.
A heavily pregnant Ciara then shows that maternity fashion can lean into grunge as easily as glamor. Her third look is tailored and understated. The 40-year-old poses in a stone courtyard, wearing a black ****** on-up shirt, a black miniskirt, and dark loafers.
#baby #montage
Ciara owns maternity fashion, and she showcases it with confidence on her social media. The clip plays over "Yes (ATL)", Ciara's single with Young Dro. Her caption reads, "Baby, you a Boss not a Wannabe."
The montage opens with a relaxed look. Ciara wears a black sleeveless zip-up vest over loose black shorts with white side stripes, while chunky black boots and dark sunglasses complete the outfit.
Next comes a sleeker option. Ciara, visibly pregnant here, wears a soft grey maxi dress that traces her baby ****** p before flaring outwards at the hem. A faded denim jacket rests on her shoulders, and a chunky chain-link necklace adds edge to the outfit. She also wears a pair of sunglasses and cradles her ****** p.
A heavily pregnant Ciara then shows that maternity fashion can lean into grunge as easily as glamor. Her third look is tailored and understated. The 40-year-old poses in a stone courtyard, wearing a black ****** on-up shirt, a black miniskirt, and dark loafers.
#baby #montage
22 days ago
Dividend-paying stocks are taking a beating as surging Treasury yields make bonds a more competitive income source, creating a difficult environment for baby boomers who lean on dividend funds and individual stocks to cover living expenses in retirement.
Utilities, real estate, and materials have all experienced share-price declines as climbing bond yields have drawn income-seeking investors away from dividend stocks. The 10-year Treasury yield has remained north of 5%, recently hovering between 5.2% and 5.3%, while the 20-year has hit 5.68% and the 30-year has reached 5.62% — marks last seen more than two decades ago, according to Benzinga.
The pain shows up clearly in fund performance. The Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF (SPHD) lost 7.59% over the trailing month, and the iShares Select Dividend ETF (DVY) shed 6.02% in the same window, according to CNBC. The Vanguard High Dividend Yield Index ETF (VYM) gave back 3.85% over the past month. The WisdomTree U.S. Quality Dividend Growth Fund (DGRW) stands apart, with its heavy tilt toward technology helping limit its one-month loss to just 0.81%.
The Federal Reserve raised its overnight rate by a quarter percentage point on Sept. 16, and markets are pricing in additional increases, keeping pressure on rate-sensitive dividend sectors. The 10-year yield touched 5.342% and the 30-year reached 5.683%, their highest marks in 24 years, driven in part by rising public debt, geopolitical tensions, and the prospect of a prolonged high-rate environment.
Despite the pressure, financial advisors caution retirees against making reactive moves. "The worst thing that a retiree could do is sell a high-quality dividend payer at depressed prices to chase income somewhere else in the stock market just to get higher yield," Timothy Chubb, chief investment officer at Girard, a Univest Wealth Division, told CNBC. Chubb said he would rather own a company growing 4% to 5% annually with a 3% dividend yield than pursue an 8% yield from a deteriorating business.
#Dividend #yield #month #treasury
Utilities, real estate, and materials have all experienced share-price declines as climbing bond yields have drawn income-seeking investors away from dividend stocks. The 10-year Treasury yield has remained north of 5%, recently hovering between 5.2% and 5.3%, while the 20-year has hit 5.68% and the 30-year has reached 5.62% — marks last seen more than two decades ago, according to Benzinga.
The pain shows up clearly in fund performance. The Invesco S&P 500 High Dividend Low Volatility ETF (SPHD) lost 7.59% over the trailing month, and the iShares Select Dividend ETF (DVY) shed 6.02% in the same window, according to CNBC. The Vanguard High Dividend Yield Index ETF (VYM) gave back 3.85% over the past month. The WisdomTree U.S. Quality Dividend Growth Fund (DGRW) stands apart, with its heavy tilt toward technology helping limit its one-month loss to just 0.81%.
The Federal Reserve raised its overnight rate by a quarter percentage point on Sept. 16, and markets are pricing in additional increases, keeping pressure on rate-sensitive dividend sectors. The 10-year yield touched 5.342% and the 30-year reached 5.683%, their highest marks in 24 years, driven in part by rising public debt, geopolitical tensions, and the prospect of a prolonged high-rate environment.
Despite the pressure, financial advisors caution retirees against making reactive moves. "The worst thing that a retiree could do is sell a high-quality dividend payer at depressed prices to chase income somewhere else in the stock market just to get higher yield," Timothy Chubb, chief investment officer at Girard, a Univest Wealth Division, told CNBC. Chubb said he would rather own a company growing 4% to 5% annually with a 3% dividend yield than pursue an 8% yield from a deteriorating business.
#Dividend #yield #month #treasury
22 days ago
Oct 6 (Reuters) - Governments, courts and companies are considering restrictions and examining existing rules on smart glasses amid worries that the technology, brought to mainstream by Meta's Ray-Bans, could be used to photograph, film or audio-record confidential materials or people without their knowledge.
Here is a summary of what countries and regions are doing to protect people's privacy, in alphabetical order.
AUSTRALIA
The federal government said in September it was considering barring the use of camera-equipped smart glasses in government workplaces due to privacy and security concerns.
Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher asked the country's Public Service Commission for advice on whether their use should be prohibited and what exemptions might be required.
#governments
Here is a summary of what countries and regions are doing to protect people's privacy, in alphabetical order.
AUSTRALIA
The federal government said in September it was considering barring the use of camera-equipped smart glasses in government workplaces due to privacy and security concerns.
Public Service Minister Katy Gallagher asked the country's Public Service Commission for advice on whether their use should be prohibited and what exemptions might be required.
#governments
23 days ago
Jeffrey Archer said he was feeling "wistful and nostalgic" about his upbringing in Somerset a week before his death.
The bestselling author and former politician, who grew up in Weston-super-Mare, died on Monday at the age of 86, the day before the release of his latest - and last - novel.
BBC Breakfast presenter Jon Kay interviewed Archer last week at his alma mater, Wellington School in Somerset. He said Archer had been reflecting on his "extraordinary life" during their conversation.
"He admitted he was feeling a little wistful and nostalgic, reminiscent about Somerset in his later years," Kay said.
Author and former politician Jeffrey Archer dies aged 86
#somerset #feeling #week
The bestselling author and former politician, who grew up in Weston-super-Mare, died on Monday at the age of 86, the day before the release of his latest - and last - novel.
BBC Breakfast presenter Jon Kay interviewed Archer last week at his alma mater, Wellington School in Somerset. He said Archer had been reflecting on his "extraordinary life" during their conversation.
"He admitted he was feeling a little wistful and nostalgic, reminiscent about Somerset in his later years," Kay said.
Author and former politician Jeffrey Archer dies aged 86
#somerset #feeling #week
23 days ago
Sarah Ferguson reportedly wants King Charles and senior royals to "throw her a bone" before she considers other options. The former **** ss of York was said to be delaying a tell-all while hoping for renewed royal acceptance.
A source claimed she still believed there was "a place for her within the royal family." However, the insider warned that continued exclusion could change her position. Her reported strategy mixed loyalty, leverage, and hopes for a royal comeback.
As per a Closer Online report, Sarah reportedly reconsidered her options. The source said Earl Spencer's memoir offered "a good reminder" of the disruption a royal tell-all could create. Moreover, the insider claimed Sarah's long history with the royals gave her considerable material. They said she could potentially do "a lot more damage to the King's legacy" than Spencer. Still, a spokesperson firmly denied a current memoir project. The representative said, "She is not writing a personal memoir."
However, the insider claimed Sarah Ferguson was keeping that possibility available while hoping for another route. The source said she was "holding off on a book deal for now." According to them, Sarah remained convinced "there's still a place for her within the royal family." She reportedly hoped loyalty would persuade King Charles and others to "cut her a break." That could mean "a path back towards respectability" or "at the very least a place to live." Meanwhile, the source said she still had "the tell-all up her sleeve" if that effort failed.
Additionally, the insider claimed Sarah was sending messages toward both Charles and Prince William. She was reportedly "imploring William and Charles to throw her a bone." The source added that she did not want to "go against the family if she can help it." Still, the report said Sarah could pursue other money-making opportunities if reconciliation failed. Those possibilities reportedly included reality television and rebuilding her social media profile. For now, Buckingham Palace had made no direct statement about Sarah. Meanwhile, senior royals had reportedly continued distancing themselves from the former York household.
#reportedly #royal
A source claimed she still believed there was "a place for her within the royal family." However, the insider warned that continued exclusion could change her position. Her reported strategy mixed loyalty, leverage, and hopes for a royal comeback.
As per a Closer Online report, Sarah reportedly reconsidered her options. The source said Earl Spencer's memoir offered "a good reminder" of the disruption a royal tell-all could create. Moreover, the insider claimed Sarah's long history with the royals gave her considerable material. They said she could potentially do "a lot more damage to the King's legacy" than Spencer. Still, a spokesperson firmly denied a current memoir project. The representative said, "She is not writing a personal memoir."
However, the insider claimed Sarah Ferguson was keeping that possibility available while hoping for another route. The source said she was "holding off on a book deal for now." According to them, Sarah remained convinced "there's still a place for her within the royal family." She reportedly hoped loyalty would persuade King Charles and others to "cut her a break." That could mean "a path back towards respectability" or "at the very least a place to live." Meanwhile, the source said she still had "the tell-all up her sleeve" if that effort failed.
Additionally, the insider claimed Sarah was sending messages toward both Charles and Prince William. She was reportedly "imploring William and Charles to throw her a bone." The source added that she did not want to "go against the family if she can help it." Still, the report said Sarah could pursue other money-making opportunities if reconciliation failed. Those possibilities reportedly included reality television and rebuilding her social media profile. For now, Buckingham Palace had made no direct statement about Sarah. Meanwhile, senior royals had reportedly continued distancing themselves from the former York household.
#reportedly #royal
24 days ago
Paris Hilton turned the streets of Paris into her personal runway during Paris Fashion Week. The socialite was racing against the clock as she made her way to the Elie Saab show, documenting the chaotic journey on Instagram. Even with traffic working against her, Hilton made sure she arrived in true fashion-week style in a black sheer dress.
For the outing, Paris Hilton wore a dramatic black Elie Saab creation covered in intricate lace and floral detailing. The floor-length gown featured a high neckline, long sleeves, and a figure-hugging silhouette. Its extensive sheer sections made it anything but conservative.
Black floral appliqués were strategically scattered across the transparent fabric. This created an elaborate pattern from the neckline all the way down the skirt. The see-through material revealed the black undergarments beneath, while the fitted construction emphasized Hilton's figure. Toward the bottom, layers of lace and textured detailing gave the gown a romantic and dramatic finish.
Getting the glamorous dress to the show proved to be an adventure of its own. Hilton revealed in the video that traffic meant she had to abandon her ride and make her way through the Paris streets on foot. At one point, she could be seen hurrying along the sidewalk as her long sheer gown trailed behind her.
Making the situation even more impressive, Hilton wrote that she was "running in 6 inch heels" to reach the Elie Saab show. She paired the gown with towering black platform heels and a quilted black Chanel handbag with a gold chain strap. Oversized black sunglasses and a voluminous blonde updo, with loose face-framing pieces, completed the look.
#elie #saab #sheer #fashion
For the outing, Paris Hilton wore a dramatic black Elie Saab creation covered in intricate lace and floral detailing. The floor-length gown featured a high neckline, long sleeves, and a figure-hugging silhouette. Its extensive sheer sections made it anything but conservative.
Black floral appliqués were strategically scattered across the transparent fabric. This created an elaborate pattern from the neckline all the way down the skirt. The see-through material revealed the black undergarments beneath, while the fitted construction emphasized Hilton's figure. Toward the bottom, layers of lace and textured detailing gave the gown a romantic and dramatic finish.
Getting the glamorous dress to the show proved to be an adventure of its own. Hilton revealed in the video that traffic meant she had to abandon her ride and make her way through the Paris streets on foot. At one point, she could be seen hurrying along the sidewalk as her long sheer gown trailed behind her.
Making the situation even more impressive, Hilton wrote that she was "running in 6 inch heels" to reach the Elie Saab show. She paired the gown with towering black platform heels and a quilted black Chanel handbag with a gold chain strap. Oversized black sunglasses and a voluminous blonde updo, with loose face-framing pieces, completed the look.
#elie #saab #sheer #fashion
25 days ago
Dakota Johnson's shoe style has a few reliable tells. On the red carpet, the actress regularly comes back to barely-there strappy sandals, a choice that also happens to leave her "Look At The Moon" foot tattoo in full view. She has worn versions from Saint Laurent and Gucci over the years, including black sandals with her slinky Gucci dress for the 2025 "Materialists" premiere.
Off duty, Johnson is just as committed to the eternal cool-girl ballet flat. In 2026, she repeatedly stepped out in Phoebe Philo's gathered leather flats, then worked Khaite's high-vamp Jane flats into her "Verity" press tour wardrobe.
More from WWD
Katseye's Megan Skiendiel and Lara Raj Coordinate at Loewe in Slitted Mules and Bell-Cuffed Sandals
Sarah Jessica Parker Pairs Shimmering Cinderella-inspired Crystal Heels With a Sheer Simone Rocha Dress
#dakota #saint #materialists
Off duty, Johnson is just as committed to the eternal cool-girl ballet flat. In 2026, she repeatedly stepped out in Phoebe Philo's gathered leather flats, then worked Khaite's high-vamp Jane flats into her "Verity" press tour wardrobe.
More from WWD
Katseye's Megan Skiendiel and Lara Raj Coordinate at Loewe in Slitted Mules and Bell-Cuffed Sandals
Sarah Jessica Parker Pairs Shimmering Cinderella-inspired Crystal Heels With a Sheer Simone Rocha Dress
#dakota #saint #materialists
25 days ago
Harvey Weinstein allegedly tried to spend $1.75 million from behind bars to influence the jury pool in his New York ****** crimes case, according to prosecutors, who say they have recordings of the disgraced Hollywood producer discussing the offer with a podcaster.
The stunning allegation emerged via The New York Post during Weinstein's sentencing for ****** ually ****** aulting former Project Runway production ****** istant Miriam "Mimi" Haley. Manhattan ****** istant District Attorney Nicole Blumberg told the court that Weinstein offered the money during a jailhouse phone call in an effort to release videos that could reach potential jurors—and even people already seated on the case.
According to Blumberg, the material was intended to help Weinstein's defense by "contaminating the jury pool and reaching the seated jurors before and after the trials." She accused Weinstein of engaging in a "scheme to disrupt the trial and instill fear in his victims."
COMPLEX SHOP: Shop the brands you love, anytime and anywhere. Uncover what's next. Buy. Collect. Obsess.
Prosecutors did not publicly identify the allegedly involved podcaster. Candace Owens, however, released a 2025 podcast series ****** led Harvey Speaks that featured jailhouse videos of Weinstein, leading to speculation that she was the podcaster offered the handsome payout.
#according
The stunning allegation emerged via The New York Post during Weinstein's sentencing for ****** ually ****** aulting former Project Runway production ****** istant Miriam "Mimi" Haley. Manhattan ****** istant District Attorney Nicole Blumberg told the court that Weinstein offered the money during a jailhouse phone call in an effort to release videos that could reach potential jurors—and even people already seated on the case.
According to Blumberg, the material was intended to help Weinstein's defense by "contaminating the jury pool and reaching the seated jurors before and after the trials." She accused Weinstein of engaging in a "scheme to disrupt the trial and instill fear in his victims."
COMPLEX SHOP: Shop the brands you love, anytime and anywhere. Uncover what's next. Buy. Collect. Obsess.
Prosecutors did not publicly identify the allegedly involved podcaster. Candace Owens, however, released a 2025 podcast series ****** led Harvey Speaks that featured jailhouse videos of Weinstein, leading to speculation that she was the podcaster offered the handsome payout.
#according
25 days ago
Sources identified the suspected attacker as 29-year-old Hamam Al Hammami.
The co-pilot of the FlyDubai plane who allegedly attacked the plane's captain and attempted to crash a flight bound for Israel on Wednesday is an Omani national who was previously suspended from flying by Oman Air after being identified as a security risk, according to senior intelligence and law enforcement officials.
Multiple sources familiar with the investigation identified the suspected attacker as 29-year-old Hamam Al Hammami.
The officials told ABC News that Al Hammami, while working as a co-pilot trainee for Oman Air in 2024, was found to be in possession of extremist materials. The suspect was allowed to continue working for the airline in an administrative role, the sources said.
United Arab Emirates Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi on Saturday said the aircraft's co-pilot had attempted to carry out a terrorist act and that he began executing his plan during the flight by ***** aulting the pilot inside the ***** pit using a crash axe and attempted to seize control of the aircraft's controls, according to WAM state news agency.
#attacker #year
The co-pilot of the FlyDubai plane who allegedly attacked the plane's captain and attempted to crash a flight bound for Israel on Wednesday is an Omani national who was previously suspended from flying by Oman Air after being identified as a security risk, according to senior intelligence and law enforcement officials.
Multiple sources familiar with the investigation identified the suspected attacker as 29-year-old Hamam Al Hammami.
The officials told ABC News that Al Hammami, while working as a co-pilot trainee for Oman Air in 2024, was found to be in possession of extremist materials. The suspect was allowed to continue working for the airline in an administrative role, the sources said.
United Arab Emirates Attorney General Hamad Saif Al Shamsi on Saturday said the aircraft's co-pilot had attempted to carry out a terrorist act and that he began executing his plan during the flight by ***** aulting the pilot inside the ***** pit using a crash axe and attempted to seize control of the aircraft's controls, according to WAM state news agency.
#attacker #year
26 days ago
Kim Kardashian is giving fans another glimpse into her latest fashion collaboration. The mogul shared a new video documenting a fitting for her upcoming capsule collection. Fans see her trying on pieces inside a dimly lit studio alongside the collection's designer. Naturally, the highlight was her strapless sequined minidress, a bold bronze-gold number that perfectly matched the shoot's moody, intimate mood.
In the clip, Kim Kardashian stands in a dressing room lined with clothing racks, trying on the finished look in real time. The post was captioned, "A collaboration built on shared language: the body as material."
For the fitting, Kardashian wore a strapless, sequined micro minidress in a warm bronze-gold tone. The fitted, bandage-style design featured horizontal ribbing that wrapped tightly around her torso. It boasted a sweetheart neckline, a mini-length hem, and an all-over metallic sheen. The dress highlighted her famous curves while fitting right into the collection's aesthetic.
Kardashian kept the rest of the look stripped back, skipping jewelry and accessories altogether. With nothing else competing for attention, the dress itself became the clear focal point of the clip. She wore her dark hair sleek and straight, leaving it loose to frame her face throughout the fitting. Her makeup stayed soft and natural, keeping the focus on the dress rather than a full glam beauty look. For Kardashian, it's a reminder that when it comes to this particular launch, the body truly is the material.
The strapless silhouette is free of accessories and distractions, allowing the dress's clinging shape to do all the talking. The clip comes as the capsule officially hits shelves, with the post confirming fans can now purchase the collection. With the capsule now live, the bronze-gold minidress offers an early preview of just how body-conscious the full collection is likely to run. The post offered fans a rawer, closer look at the collaboration than its earlier campaign imagery provided.
#kardashian #fans #capsule #minidress
In the clip, Kim Kardashian stands in a dressing room lined with clothing racks, trying on the finished look in real time. The post was captioned, "A collaboration built on shared language: the body as material."
For the fitting, Kardashian wore a strapless, sequined micro minidress in a warm bronze-gold tone. The fitted, bandage-style design featured horizontal ribbing that wrapped tightly around her torso. It boasted a sweetheart neckline, a mini-length hem, and an all-over metallic sheen. The dress highlighted her famous curves while fitting right into the collection's aesthetic.
Kardashian kept the rest of the look stripped back, skipping jewelry and accessories altogether. With nothing else competing for attention, the dress itself became the clear focal point of the clip. She wore her dark hair sleek and straight, leaving it loose to frame her face throughout the fitting. Her makeup stayed soft and natural, keeping the focus on the dress rather than a full glam beauty look. For Kardashian, it's a reminder that when it comes to this particular launch, the body truly is the material.
The strapless silhouette is free of accessories and distractions, allowing the dress's clinging shape to do all the talking. The clip comes as the capsule officially hits shelves, with the post confirming fans can now purchase the collection. With the capsule now live, the bronze-gold minidress offers an early preview of just how body-conscious the full collection is likely to run. The post offered fans a rawer, closer look at the collaboration than its earlier campaign imagery provided.
#kardashian #fans #capsule #minidress
26 days ago
Anne Hathaway is shining bright like a diamond in her maternity looks, and she credits Rihanna as her inspiration.
While visiting CBS Mornings on Friday (Oct. 1), the actress opened up about her glamorous outfits on red carpets as of late as she promotes new psychological thriller Verity, in which she plays the ***** ular role. When host Gayle King praised her for being so adventurous with her wardrobe while proudly showing off her baby ***** p, Hathaway — who's expecting her third child with husband Adam Shulman — said, "I think we have Rihanna to thank."
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Anne Hathaway Says Inspiration From Taylor Swift's Eras Tour Was 'Like An Angel Over Our Heads' During Filming of 'Mother Mary'
#hathaway #anne #like #Friday
While visiting CBS Mornings on Friday (Oct. 1), the actress opened up about her glamorous outfits on red carpets as of late as she promotes new psychological thriller Verity, in which she plays the ***** ular role. When host Gayle King praised her for being so adventurous with her wardrobe while proudly showing off her baby ***** p, Hathaway — who's expecting her third child with husband Adam Shulman — said, "I think we have Rihanna to thank."
More from Billboard
Rihanna's Best Pregnancy Fashion Moments, From the Super Bowl Stage to the Met Gala Red Carpet
Anne Hathaway Says Inspiration From Taylor Swift's Eras Tour Was 'Like An Angel Over Our Heads' During Filming of 'Mother Mary'
#hathaway #anne #like #Friday
27 days ago
Craft stores are generally reserved for browsing yarn aisles on quiet Sunday afternoons and overspending on seasonal holiday decor. But every so often, retail chaos infiltrates their quiet corners in the face of a shoplifter or a drunkard. Or maybe, both.
In a TikTok storytime, creator Madi Max (soft.cuddlebunny) looked back on her days working retail at Joann Fabrics. She specifically recounted an incident of an intoxicated shoplifter trying to play Romeo and criminal mastermind at the same time. The result? The local craft hub turned into an accidental slapstick comedy routine.
The hilarious routine started as an unhinged flirtation attempt. But it ended with dozens of stolen markers across the linoleum floor and the furious perp screaming from the back of a police cruiser.
According to Max, the incident kicked off when a man stumbled through the automatic sliding doors carrying an open, uncovered liquor bottle. He was allegedly actively taking swigs as he roamed the aisles. But rather than laying low, he allegedly zeroed in on Max's coworker.
The man was reportedly nursing an unprompted, aggressive crush and loudly peppering the coworker with wildly inappropriate remarks. At one point, he allegedly started pointing at rolls of material, declaring that she would look stunning in lingerie made out of the textiles.
#craft #shoplifter
In a TikTok storytime, creator Madi Max (soft.cuddlebunny) looked back on her days working retail at Joann Fabrics. She specifically recounted an incident of an intoxicated shoplifter trying to play Romeo and criminal mastermind at the same time. The result? The local craft hub turned into an accidental slapstick comedy routine.
The hilarious routine started as an unhinged flirtation attempt. But it ended with dozens of stolen markers across the linoleum floor and the furious perp screaming from the back of a police cruiser.
According to Max, the incident kicked off when a man stumbled through the automatic sliding doors carrying an open, uncovered liquor bottle. He was allegedly actively taking swigs as he roamed the aisles. But rather than laying low, he allegedly zeroed in on Max's coworker.
The man was reportedly nursing an unprompted, aggressive crush and loudly peppering the coworker with wildly inappropriate remarks. At one point, he allegedly started pointing at rolls of material, declaring that she would look stunning in lingerie made out of the textiles.
#craft #shoplifter
27 days ago
Dorothy ***** is going to be a mom!
The Bling Empire alum is pregnant and expecting her first baby with husband Brandon Yankowitz, sharing the exciting news with a joint post on Instagram
In the photos, the married couple posed outdoors for their maternity shoot
Dorothy ***** is going to be a mom!
The Bling Empire alum, 38, is pregnant and expecting her first baby with husband Brandon Yankowitz, sharing the exciting news in a joint post on Instagram.
#wang
The Bling Empire alum is pregnant and expecting her first baby with husband Brandon Yankowitz, sharing the exciting news with a joint post on Instagram
In the photos, the married couple posed outdoors for their maternity shoot
Dorothy ***** is going to be a mom!
The Bling Empire alum, 38, is pregnant and expecting her first baby with husband Brandon Yankowitz, sharing the exciting news in a joint post on Instagram.
#wang
27 days ago
Anne Hathaway proved that accessories can take any dress to the next level. The Oscar-winning actress, clad in Bulgari jewels, made an appearance on Wednesday night's episode of "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" in New York City to promote her new film "Verity."
Hathaway, who is expecting her third child with husband Adam Shulman, took the classic little black dress and gave it a maternity-style update. The dress was form-fitting and accentuated Hathaway's pregnant body without fussiness, creating a balanced silhouette with an off-the-shoulder neckline.
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Florence Pugh Concludes Her 'East of Eden' Press Tour With Vivienne Westwood's Vibrancy
Anne Hathaway Kicks Off Stilettos and Transitions Into Shorter Heels to Complete Her Versatile Maternity Style
#oscar #tonight
Hathaway, who is expecting her third child with husband Adam Shulman, took the classic little black dress and gave it a maternity-style update. The dress was form-fitting and accentuated Hathaway's pregnant body without fussiness, creating a balanced silhouette with an off-the-shoulder neckline.
More from WWD
Florence Pugh Concludes Her 'East of Eden' Press Tour With Vivienne Westwood's Vibrancy
Anne Hathaway Kicks Off Stilettos and Transitions Into Shorter Heels to Complete Her Versatile Maternity Style
#oscar #tonight
29 days ago
Opening a Bible that once belonged to Thomas Jefferson, staff at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in 2011 discovered a reddish-blond hair pressed between the pages. That hair, suspected to have belonged to Jefferson himself, launched a DNA investigation spanning more than a decade that’s now providing a long-missing puzzle piece regarding Jefferson’s relationship with Sally Hemings, an enslaved woman in his household.
After spending years reconstructing DNA fragments, scientists have revealed the most compelling evidence to date that Jefferson, a founding father of the United States, also fathered children with Hemings — a relationship that has been long rumored but never definitively proven. How that investigation unfolded is documented in the book “History by a Hair: Thomas Jefferson, Sally Hemings & Solving a 200-Year-Old Mystery,” written by Richard Kurin, a distinguished scholar and ambassador-at-large at the Smithsonian, and published on September 22.
Kurin is also senior author of a paper describing the methods that connected the former US president to Hemings’ descendants, which involved delving deep into the genetics of the Jefferson and Hemings family trees. The paper, published September 21 on the preprint platform bioRXiv, has not yet been peer-reviewed.
In addition to testing the hair found in the Bible, the researchers also collected genetic material from multiple confirmed samples of Jefferson’s hair, held in the collection of the Smithsonian. They compared that with DNA from descendants of multiple lineages: Jefferson and his wife Martha, Jefferson’s brother Randolph, and two of Hemings’ sons, Eston and Madison. (Hemings had four children who lived to adulthood, but only Eston and Madison claimed Jefferson as their father).
Matches in the DNA suggest the chance that Thomas Jefferson fathered at least one of Sally Hemings’ children was 99.96%.
#jefferson #children #bible #history
After spending years reconstructing DNA fragments, scientists have revealed the most compelling evidence to date that Jefferson, a founding father of the United States, also fathered children with Hemings — a relationship that has been long rumored but never definitively proven. How that investigation unfolded is documented in the book “History by a Hair: Thomas Jefferson, Sally Hemings & Solving a 200-Year-Old Mystery,” written by Richard Kurin, a distinguished scholar and ambassador-at-large at the Smithsonian, and published on September 22.
Kurin is also senior author of a paper describing the methods that connected the former US president to Hemings’ descendants, which involved delving deep into the genetics of the Jefferson and Hemings family trees. The paper, published September 21 on the preprint platform bioRXiv, has not yet been peer-reviewed.
In addition to testing the hair found in the Bible, the researchers also collected genetic material from multiple confirmed samples of Jefferson’s hair, held in the collection of the Smithsonian. They compared that with DNA from descendants of multiple lineages: Jefferson and his wife Martha, Jefferson’s brother Randolph, and two of Hemings’ sons, Eston and Madison. (Hemings had four children who lived to adulthood, but only Eston and Madison claimed Jefferson as their father).
Matches in the DNA suggest the chance that Thomas Jefferson fathered at least one of Sally Hemings’ children was 99.96%.
#jefferson #children #bible #history
1 month ago
On September 9, 2026, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) unveiled the iPhone Duo, its first foldable smartphone and the biggest change to the iPhone's design in nearly 20 years, at the first product launch event led by new CEO John Ternus since he succeeded Tim Cook on September 1. The book-style, passport-shaped device opens into a 7.6-inch display, Apple's largest ever, starts at $1,999 for the 256-gigabyte model and rises to $3,199 for 2 terabytes of storage. This makes it the most expensive iPhone Apple has ever sold, with availability set for October 23.
The iPhone Duo gives Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) a new premium growth opportunity in a mature smartphone market. Apple entered the foldable market with the $1,999 Duo. It creates a new high-end product category within its largest hardware franchise. ******* ysts expect Apple to take a real share of the foldable market. The firm's brand strength and large installed base could help speed up use of foldable smartphones.
The Duo creates a materially different iPhone experience that could encourage upgrades and attract Android users. The device opens to a 7.6-inch display, supports side-by-side multitasking, and offers a tablet-like experience in a pocketable design. Apple also shows the Duo's ******* anium frame, custom hinge, A20 Pro chip, and Apple Intelligence features. It gives customers several reasons to pay a substantial premium for the new form factor.
The launch solidifies Apple's hardware innovation strategy under new CEO John Ternus. The Duo represents Apple's most significant iPhone redesign since the iPhone X. It gives Ternus an opportunity to reignite enthusiasm around the company's hardware portfolio. The product also expands Apple's ability to monetize its ecosystem through higher-value hardware, services, and accessories as customers spend more time using a larger, more versatile iPhone.
The $1,999 starting price could keep the Duo a niche product. Reuters reported that the global foldable market could account for less than 3% of smartphone sales in 2026. ******* ysts expect only about 6 million Duo units as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) enters the category. Even strong market share would turn into a relatively small contribution compared with Apple's broader iPhone business.
#iphone #aapl
The iPhone Duo gives Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) a new premium growth opportunity in a mature smartphone market. Apple entered the foldable market with the $1,999 Duo. It creates a new high-end product category within its largest hardware franchise. ******* ysts expect Apple to take a real share of the foldable market. The firm's brand strength and large installed base could help speed up use of foldable smartphones.
The Duo creates a materially different iPhone experience that could encourage upgrades and attract Android users. The device opens to a 7.6-inch display, supports side-by-side multitasking, and offers a tablet-like experience in a pocketable design. Apple also shows the Duo's ******* anium frame, custom hinge, A20 Pro chip, and Apple Intelligence features. It gives customers several reasons to pay a substantial premium for the new form factor.
The launch solidifies Apple's hardware innovation strategy under new CEO John Ternus. The Duo represents Apple's most significant iPhone redesign since the iPhone X. It gives Ternus an opportunity to reignite enthusiasm around the company's hardware portfolio. The product also expands Apple's ability to monetize its ecosystem through higher-value hardware, services, and accessories as customers spend more time using a larger, more versatile iPhone.
The $1,999 starting price could keep the Duo a niche product. Reuters reported that the global foldable market could account for less than 3% of smartphone sales in 2026. ******* ysts expect only about 6 million Duo units as Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) enters the category. Even strong market share would turn into a relatively small contribution compared with Apple's broader iPhone business.
#iphone #aapl
1 month ago
On September 4, 2026, the Wall Street Journal reported that Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX)' longtime chai latte devotees have turned against the company's reformulated recipe, introduced in March. It reduced sweetener and shifted from a pre-made concentrate to a new base with just two grams of sugar.
Customers have signed petitions, flooded Starbucks' corporate lines, and taken to Reddit and store review sites demanding the original formula back. Starbucks says the change gives customers more control over sweetness and has introduced new variations like Mango Cream Chai and Pumpkin Cream Chai.
Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX)' broader turnaround remains intact despite the backlash over its chai reformulation. Global comparable sales increased 7.9% in fiscal Q3, with comparable transactions rising 4.2%. The company raised its fiscal 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to $2.55-$2.65 from $2.25-$2.45. Stronger customer traffic and higher earnings give investors evidence that one unpopular menu change has not derailed the recovery.
The chai backlash appears concentrated among loyal customers of one product rather than across Starbucks' broader customer base. The business introduced the new chai formula as part of a personalization strategy. Customers can customize sweetness and other ingredients. If Starbucks keeps transaction growth across its wider menu, the business could improve its product economics without materially damaging overall customer demand.
Starbucks is improving profitability while it executes its turnaround. Non-GAAP operating margin expanded 430 basis points year over year to 14.4% in fiscal Q3, while North America revenue increased 7% to $7.4 billion. These results give investors evidence that the company can improve margins and sales even as it experiments with its menu and customer experience.
#customer
Customers have signed petitions, flooded Starbucks' corporate lines, and taken to Reddit and store review sites demanding the original formula back. Starbucks says the change gives customers more control over sweetness and has introduced new variations like Mango Cream Chai and Pumpkin Cream Chai.
Starbucks Corporation (NASDAQ:SBUX)' broader turnaround remains intact despite the backlash over its chai reformulation. Global comparable sales increased 7.9% in fiscal Q3, with comparable transactions rising 4.2%. The company raised its fiscal 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to $2.55-$2.65 from $2.25-$2.45. Stronger customer traffic and higher earnings give investors evidence that one unpopular menu change has not derailed the recovery.
The chai backlash appears concentrated among loyal customers of one product rather than across Starbucks' broader customer base. The business introduced the new chai formula as part of a personalization strategy. Customers can customize sweetness and other ingredients. If Starbucks keeps transaction growth across its wider menu, the business could improve its product economics without materially damaging overall customer demand.
Starbucks is improving profitability while it executes its turnaround. Non-GAAP operating margin expanded 430 basis points year over year to 14.4% in fiscal Q3, while North America revenue increased 7% to $7.4 billion. These results give investors evidence that the company can improve margins and sales even as it experiments with its menu and customer experience.
#customer
1 month ago
As a Californian, I can say this: If there are two industries that residents of the Golden State really don't like, it's insurance providers and utilities.
Interestingly, with the state considering wildfire reform legislation, those industries are at odds with one another. That's material for investors considering stocks such as PG&E (NYSE: PCG). The company known to California customers as Pacific Gas & Electric is one of the four major investor-owned utilities in the state, and due to the state having some of the highest utility rates in the U.S., PG&E and friends don't have a lot of fans in the state.
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 »
Of course, investing isn't a popularity contest. There are plenty of stocks that are often vilified in the court of public opinion that also deliver compelling returns. This year, oil equities certainly check that box. But the biggest risk to prospective PG&E investors isn't how Californians feel about the utility. It's the goings-on in Sacramento.
For those who are new to utility stocks, the primary reasons investors have embraced this sector over the years are above-average dividend yields, below-average risk profiles, and, more recently, inroads to the artificial intelligence (AI) trade.
#state #signal
Interestingly, with the state considering wildfire reform legislation, those industries are at odds with one another. That's material for investors considering stocks such as PG&E (NYSE: PCG). The company known to California customers as Pacific Gas & Electric is one of the four major investor-owned utilities in the state, and due to the state having some of the highest utility rates in the U.S., PG&E and friends don't have a lot of fans in the state.
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 »
Of course, investing isn't a popularity contest. There are plenty of stocks that are often vilified in the court of public opinion that also deliver compelling returns. This year, oil equities certainly check that box. But the biggest risk to prospective PG&E investors isn't how Californians feel about the utility. It's the goings-on in Sacramento.
For those who are new to utility stocks, the primary reasons investors have embraced this sector over the years are above-average dividend yields, below-average risk profiles, and, more recently, inroads to the artificial intelligence (AI) trade.
#state #signal
1 month ago
Marathon Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:MPC) has substantially outperformed the wider market this year, supported by an unusually sharp surge in global refining margins as the prolonged Iran crisis has significantly tightened global refining capacity and reduced supplies of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
With Marathon up by over 150% since the beginning of 2026, there are now concerns that the stock may have topped out. However, the ****** ysts over at Morgan Stanley are convinced that the rally still has further room to run. On September 14, Morgan Stanley ****** yst Joe Laetsch significantly raised the firm's price target on MPC from $265 to $453, while reaffirming an 'Overweight' rating on the shares.
The target boost reflects an upside of over 9% from the current price level and even exceeds the stock's record high of just under $411 per share achieved earlier this month. The Morgan Stanley update comes amid broader Wall Street optimism surrounding the American refining giant, with ****** ysts from Raymon James, UBS, and several others also improving their respective outlooks on MPC.
Morgan Stanley's vote of confidence suggests that Wall Street expects the ongoing refining upcycle to last longer than previously expected, especially given the fresh wave of attacks between Washington and Tehran. Even if the conflict in the Middle East subsides, the region's refined fuel output is expected to remain relatively tight, since the damaged or idled refineries in the Middle East are likely to take some time to return to full operations.
As the largest refiner by volume in the United States, Marathon has significant operating leverage to capitalize on the current high-margin environment. The company already demonstrated its ability to translate the high crack spreads into material earnings when it delivered an almost fourfold increase in profits in the second quarter.
#morgan #marathon #stanley #middle
With Marathon up by over 150% since the beginning of 2026, there are now concerns that the stock may have topped out. However, the ****** ysts over at Morgan Stanley are convinced that the rally still has further room to run. On September 14, Morgan Stanley ****** yst Joe Laetsch significantly raised the firm's price target on MPC from $265 to $453, while reaffirming an 'Overweight' rating on the shares.
The target boost reflects an upside of over 9% from the current price level and even exceeds the stock's record high of just under $411 per share achieved earlier this month. The Morgan Stanley update comes amid broader Wall Street optimism surrounding the American refining giant, with ****** ysts from Raymon James, UBS, and several others also improving their respective outlooks on MPC.
Morgan Stanley's vote of confidence suggests that Wall Street expects the ongoing refining upcycle to last longer than previously expected, especially given the fresh wave of attacks between Washington and Tehran. Even if the conflict in the Middle East subsides, the region's refined fuel output is expected to remain relatively tight, since the damaged or idled refineries in the Middle East are likely to take some time to return to full operations.
As the largest refiner by volume in the United States, Marathon has significant operating leverage to capitalize on the current high-margin environment. The company already demonstrated its ability to translate the high crack spreads into material earnings when it delivered an almost fourfold increase in profits in the second quarter.
#morgan #marathon #stanley #middle
1 month ago
Valero Energy Corporation (NYSE:VLO) has been on a strong rally, posting gains of over 140% since the beginning of 2026. The strong performance is fuelled by an unusually sharp surge in global refining margins as the ongoing disruptions have significantly reduced the world's refining capacity and tightened supplies of gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel.
While there are now investor concerns that the stock may have topped out, Wall Street sees further upside ahead. On September 14, Morgan Stanley ******* yst Joe Laetsch significantly boosted the firm's price target on VLO from $255 to $411, while maintaining an 'Equal Weight' rating on the shares. The revised target implies an upside of almost 4% from the current levels and even exceeds the stock's all-time high of just under $400 per share.
The higher price objective is supported by the possibility that Valero can translate the favorable refining environment into material earnings and cash flows. The company did exactly that in the second quarter, when it posted its highest-ever Q2 profit and topped Wall Street expectations.
It seems like the high-margin environment is here to stay following a fresh wave of attacks between the US and Iran. Even if the attacks stop and a potential peace agreement is achieved, the damaged or idled refineries in the Middle East are likely to take some time to return to full operations, keeping refined-fuel markets relatively tight. Notably, the supply disruptions also extend beyond the troubled region, as a recent series of Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries has further constrained global refining capacity.
Valero's FCC Unit optimization project at its St. Charles Refinery will allow it to capitalize even further on the high-priced environment. Expected to be completed in the third quarter, the $230 million initiative will help enhance the facility's ability to produce high-value products.
#even #environment #wall #strong
While there are now investor concerns that the stock may have topped out, Wall Street sees further upside ahead. On September 14, Morgan Stanley ******* yst Joe Laetsch significantly boosted the firm's price target on VLO from $255 to $411, while maintaining an 'Equal Weight' rating on the shares. The revised target implies an upside of almost 4% from the current levels and even exceeds the stock's all-time high of just under $400 per share.
The higher price objective is supported by the possibility that Valero can translate the favorable refining environment into material earnings and cash flows. The company did exactly that in the second quarter, when it posted its highest-ever Q2 profit and topped Wall Street expectations.
It seems like the high-margin environment is here to stay following a fresh wave of attacks between the US and Iran. Even if the attacks stop and a potential peace agreement is achieved, the damaged or idled refineries in the Middle East are likely to take some time to return to full operations, keeping refined-fuel markets relatively tight. Notably, the supply disruptions also extend beyond the troubled region, as a recent series of Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries has further constrained global refining capacity.
Valero's FCC Unit optimization project at its St. Charles Refinery will allow it to capitalize even further on the high-priced environment. Expected to be completed in the third quarter, the $230 million initiative will help enhance the facility's ability to produce high-value products.
#even #environment #wall #strong
