Executive Summary & Main Facts Mortgage rates remained largely unchanged at the start of the week, with the average interest rate on a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage edging up to 7.24% APR, according to data provided to NerdWallet by Zillow. While technically a one-basis-point increase from the previous day, market experts characterize the movement as negligible,…
BANGKOK — As central bankers, finance ministers, and global economic leaders gather in the Thai capital for the joint 2026 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, a singular, towering theme has dominated discussions: Artificial Intelligence. Against a backdrop of stubborn energy shocks, geopolitical tensions, and an ongoing war in…
By PYMNTS October 3, 2026 The modern consumer landscape is increasingly populated by a colorful array of quirky, internet-born acronyms and micro-demographics. In today’s economy, you are no longer just defined by your age or zip code. Instead, you might find yourself categorized as a DINKWAD—a dual-income couple with no kids, but a dog—or a…
By [Journalist Name] Published: [Current Date] Main Facts In an era defined by endless digital storefronts, one-click checkouts, and algorithmic temptation, a curious digital counter-movement is taking shape across the globe. Known as "dopamine sites," these platforms—such as dopamine-shop.com and foodnevercomes.com—allow consumers to browse through hyper-realistic catalogues, load up digital shopping carts, and complete transactions…
By PYMNTS September 21, 2026 Main Facts: The Cooling Consumer Economy Household spending growth continued its gradual deceleration in August, according to the latest data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Household Spending Survey, released Monday (Sept. 21). While consumers continue to open their wallets, the pace of expansion has cooled relative to…
For the better part of three decades, the average professional’s financial life is defined by a single, relentless metric: accumulation. Investors pour capital into 401(k)s, IRAs, and brokerage accounts, viewing their net worth as a scoreboard that only moves in one direction. However, as the golden years approach, the fundamental nature of the financial challenge…
WASHINGTON — Across the United States, a historic capital investment boom is quietly rewriting the nation’s economic and fiscal ledger. Driven by a massive, nationwide buildout in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, cloud computing, and advanced manufacturing, businesses are spending on physical assets at a rate that is drastically outpacing federal forecasts. Yet, this surge in…
New Survey Reveals Shift in Consumer Behavior as Families Opt for Value and Budgeting Strategies to Navigate Rising Costs The familiar buzz of back-to-school season is upon us, a time traditionally marked by a surge in consumer spending on essentials like clothing, school supplies, and academic materials. However, this year, a significant and unexpected trend…
