💼 Broader Business & Consumer Trends

• Corporate bankruptcies rising:

Bankruptcy filings surged in 2025, with over 700 U.S. companies entering proceedings — the highest level in years — reflecting stress from tariffs, inflation, and financing costs. �

New York Post

• Consumer confidence under pressure:

U.S. consumer confidence dipped in December amid inflation and job concerns — a trend that could weigh on spending early next year. �

The Times of India

• AI’s rising economic impact:

Artificial intelligence continues to shape the economy, contributing heavily to stock market wealth and corporate investment, though concerns exist about sector concentration and sustainability. �

The Guardian

• Visa policy shift:

Changes to the U.S. H-1B visa system aim to prioritize higher-wage and highly skilled workers, with implications for tech and other sectors reliant on foreign talent. �