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A plane used to fly VIPs like King Charles made an emergency landing after windowpanes fell off

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King Charles III's and Queen Camilla's plane lands at Orly Airport on September 20, 2023 in Paris, France.
  • A Titan Airways flight had to do a U-turn due to missing and damaged windows.
  • The Airbus plane had previously been used by King Charles, Queen Camilla, and other UK officials.
  • High-intensity lights during a commercial shoot caused the window damage.

A plane used by VIPs like King Charles and Queen Camilla had to make an emergency landing after three windowpanes fell out mid-flight.

The Titan Airways flight traveling from London to Orlando in October had to U-turn after departing when a crew member noticed one of the windowpanes was loose.

Passengers had also noticed the plane was noisier and colder than usual, according to the Telegraph.

But the full extent of the damage wasn't known until the plane landed: Three of the windowpanes panes had fallen off, and impact damage was noticeable on the tail, according to a new report by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB).

Two of the windowpanes were completely removed, while the third window was missing the inner pane and a rubber seal, and a fourth window was damaged, the report said.

There were nine passengers and 11 crew on board. None of them reported injuries.

The aircraft was originally used by the British government. It was later sold to Titan Airways, which describes itself as a charter airline specializing in VIP and corporate travel.

The Telegraph reported that Charles and Camilla had traveled in the same aircraft during their visit to France in September.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla plane
King Charles III and Queen Camilla disembark the plane at Orly Airport on September 20, 2023 in Paris, France.

It had also been used by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and James Cleverly, the UK's Foreign Secretary, the outlet said.

Buckingham Palace declined to comment when contacted by Business Insider.

The AAIB report identified the cause of the damage: The windows had been exposed to high-intensity lights when the aircraft was used to film a commercial at London's Stansted Airport the day before.

The lights, used to convey a sunrise, had been aimed at the windows for several hours at a time, the report said. They had a combined capacity of 72,000 watts, which is more than seven hundred times more powerful than a standard light bulb, The Telegraph reported.

plane damage
This image by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch shows the damage caused.

There was no suggestion in the AAIB report that manufacturing issues contributed to the damage.

Although the aircraft lost windowpanes, that doesn't mean wind was shooting through the cabin, according to the report.

"All the scratch panes remained in place so there was no direct, unrestricted aperture between the passenger cabin and the outside air," it said, noting the amount of leaking air was not enough to trigger a pressurization problem.

Speaking to Business Insider, a Titan Airways spokesperson said, "the aviation industry as a whole will benefit from the lessons learnt from this event."

"We are also pleased to hear that our colleagues at Airbus will be circulating further information to its worldwide customer base, highlighting the potential damage that can be caused by high-intensity lighting," they said.

Airbus did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

This is not the first time an aircraft has sustained damage from strong lighting on a film set.

At least one other Airbus and three Boeing planes had previously reported damaged windows during respective filming events, the report said, adding that knowledge of these incidents previously wasn't widespread.

Damage to one of the Boeing planes was significant. A hole burned through one of the windows while five other windows were deformed after 2,000W lights were used, the report said.

In March 2020, Boeing released a statement advising against the use of high-intensity lights, the report added. If high-intensity lights were used, it suggested keeping use to a minimum and away from windows.

Read the original article on Business Insider

A massive breakdown of Taylor Swift's celebrity friendships

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ice spice, taylor swift, and blake lively at the super bowl
Taylor Swift has fostered friendships across the entertainment industry.
  • Taylor Swift has gotten close with some big names across the entertainment industry over the years. 
  • Emma Stone, Selena Gomez, and Karlie Kloss were some of her early famous friends. 
  • She's also collaborated with several friends, including Jack Antonoff and the Haim sisters.

Taylor Swift is one of the biggest names in music. Her current Eras Tour is the highest-grossing tour in history, already amassing over $1 billion ahead of its European leg. 

Since the beginning of her career, Swift has had dozens of public friendships with the biggest names in Hollywood, music, and more.

Here are all of the singer's celebrity friends and how they met. 

Taylor Swift and the Haim sisters have been close friends and collaborators for years.
Este Haim, Alana Haim, and Danielle Haim at the 2022 Vanity Fair Oscars Party.
Este, Alana, and Danielle Haim at the 2022 Vanity Fair Oscars Party.

The band Haim is made up of three sisters, Este, Danielle, and Alana. Their friendship with Swift started in October 2014 after they both tweeted expressing their love for each other's music.

The next month, the sisters were part of Taylor Swift's 25th birthday celebration at Jingle Ball.

They were then photographed together at the Golden Globes in January 2015 before they all took a trip to Hawaii.

Later that year, the band opened for Swift during part of her 1989 tour.

The Haim sisters were also with Swift during the one and only time she attended Coachella in 2016 — when she revealed her iconic "Bleachella" look.

In 2019, Danielle publicly supported Swift when she spoke out against Scooter Braun acquiring Swift's masters.

The band was featured on "No Body, No Crime" from Swift's "Evermore" album in December 2020. And a year later, Swift shared pictures on Instagram of her joint birthday party with Alana.

More recently, Swift surprised Haim fans by joining the band onstage for their London show in 2022, where they sang a mashup of Swift's "Love Story" and Haim's "Gasoline." The sisters also appeared in Swift's music video for her "Midnights" track "Bejeweled."

Haim was also one of Swift's opening acts for her Eras tour.

Dylan O'Brien was a fan of Swift before they became close.
Dylan O'Brien, Taylor Swift, and Sadie Sink smile on the "All Too Well" red carpet.
Dylan O'Brien, Taylor Swift, and Sadie Sink at the premiere of the "All Too Well" short film.

When Coup de Main magazine interviewed O'Brien in 2021, the actor mentioned being a fan of Swift's music.

The actor had previously tweeted about Swift's music back in 2020, and the interview revealed that he was particularly a fan of "1989" and "Lover" — though he listed plenty of songs he enjoyed from "Folklore" as well.

When Swift rereleased "Red" in November 2021, O'Brien starred in Swift's short film version of "All Too Well," which premiered alongside the album.

Swift praised his work in an interview with Jimmy Fallon, calling O'Brien prepared, committed, and magnetic.

He also had a surprise credit on Swift's newest album, "Midnights." According to the singer, he played the drums for "Snow on the Beach." 

Swift told Fallon in 2022 that O'Brien happened to be hanging out with her in Jack Antonoff's studio when she was recording the track, and he just started playing the drums.

Selena Gomez has been close friends with Swift for almost 15 years.
Taylor Swift Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift at the 2016 Grammys.

Gomez and Swift met in 2008 when they were dating Nick and Joe Jonas, respectively.

Later that year, Swift went with the actor to the premiere of her film "Another Cinderella Story," marking one of their first public sightings.

The two were seen together at various award shows throughout the years, and Swift even brought Gomez onstage to perform with her during her 2011 Speak Now tour.

In 2014, Gomez posted a video of her and Swift dancing together at the Met Gala shortly after Swift told E! New how much she valued their friendship. 

Like many of Swift's celebrity friends, Gomez was featured in her 2015 "Bad Blood" music video. Her role was even slightly larger than other celebrity cameos.

Later that year, Swift and Gomez performed together during Swift's 1989 tour. They reunited onstage for the Reputation tour in 2018 as well, and Swift posted about it on Instagram to thank Gomez for being there for her "no matter what."

The two have continued to celebrate each other's projects over the years and share photos together on social media.

While promoting her 2022 documentary, "My Mind and Me," Gomez told Rolling Stones "my only friend in the industry really is Taylor," which earned her some backlash but highlighted their lasting friendship. 

The friends have continued to support each other online and hang out in person over the past year few years.

Beyoncé and Swift have supported each other for years.
Beyoncé Knowles-Carter and Taylor Swift attend the "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" Concert Movie World Premiere on October 11, 2023 in Los Angeles, California.
Beyoncé and Taylor Swift at the "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" movie premiere.

Although the singers continue to be compared against each other, they actually appear to be close. 

During the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, after Kayne West, now known as Ye, interrupted Swift's acceptance speech for best female video to say Beyoncé should have won, Beyoncé called Swift onstage to allow the singer to have a second chance to give her acceptance speech.

The two have continued to publicly cheer for each other at awards shows and attend the same events over the years.

More recently, they each attended the other's film premieres, with Beyoncé at the "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" movie premiere in LA and Swift at the "Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé" premiere in London.

Swift also spoke out against the way she and Beyoncé are compared in her 2023 Time Person of the Year cover story, saying the two refuse to engage in being pitted against each other.

Antonoff and Swift have worked well together for years.
jack antonoff taylor swift
Jack Antonoff and Taylor Swift performing at the 2016 Grammys.

Swift and Antonoff seem to have met at the 2012 European Music Awards. The two became fast friends and collaborators, with Antonoff cowriting and coproducing "Out of the Woods," "I Wish You Would," and "You Are in Love" on "1989."

Antonoff went on to work on tracks from "Reputation" and "Lover" as well. Fun footage of the pair coming up with the lyrics to "Getaway Car" was later released in the 2020 "Miss Americana" documentary.

The Bleachers front-runner also joined Swift on stage when she won album of the year at the 2021 Grammys for "Folklore." He wrote and produced multiple tracks on the surprise album and provided vocals and bass for several as well.

He then continued to work with Swift on "Evermore" and "Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions."

In 2022, Antonoff was credited on all 13 main tracks on "Midnights" and a few of the "(3am Edition)" bonus songs, and he appeared in the "Bejeweled" music video. On her latest album, "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology," the producer is credited on eight songs. 

The friends have also shared some sweet moments and photos on social media over the last few years. 

Swift and Aaron Dessner met years before they ever collaborated.
aaron dessner, taylor swift, and jack antonoff at the 2021 grammys
Aaron Dessner and Taylor Swift at the 2021 Grammys.

According to Pitchfork, Dessner met Swift at a 2014 "Saturday Night Live" show. He'd been a member of The National for 15 years by that time, and he's continued to release new music with his band.

He also told Pitchfork in the 2020 interview that Swift came to a National show in 2019 and spoke with him before reaching out to ask if he'd like to work on a song together.

The two wrote and produced songs together on "Folklore" and "Evermore" in 2020. 

Swift and Dessner collaborated on tracks for the bonus edition of her "Midnights" album.

When the album dropped, he wrote a touching Instagram post. Part of it read, "it's an honor as always to be able to contribute and collaborate with Taylor who never ceases to amaze and delight ..." 

Dessner has also been a surprise musical guest at several of Swift's Eras Tour shows. 

When Swift released "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology," the National singer was credited on 15 tracks. 

Ed Sheeran has released a few songs with Swift over the years.
taylor swift ed sheeran jingle ball 2012
Taylor Swift performing with Ed Sheeran in 2012.

After seeing that Swift wrote his lyrics on her arm during a 2012 show, Sheeran reached out to her team.

They released their first song together, "Everything Has Changed," that same year on Swift's "Red" album. Swift told MTV in 2012 that they wrote the song together while hanging out in her backyard.

Swift and Sheeran performed their duet at the 2012 Jingle Ball, and they've since performed it on each other's tours. Sheeran even opened for Swift's Red tour.

They rerecorded "Everything Has Changed" for "Red (Taylor's Version)" in 2021, and they released a vault track called "Run," which they'd also started writing back in 2012. 

The two have had a friendship outside of their working relationship as well, frequently tagging each other in posts throughout the past decade.

In 2022, the two collaborated once again for Sheeran's "The Joker and the Queen," which the singer had previously released in 2020 as a solo track. The pair made a music video that included actors who were in their original "Everything Has Changed" video from 2012. 

Swift is friends with all of Boygenius, the popular group composed of Julien Baker, Phoebe Bridgers, and Lucy Dacus.
Julien Baker, Lucy Dacus, Taylor Swift, and Phoebe Bridgers at the 66th grammys
Julien Baker, Lucy Dacus, Taylor Swift, and Phoebe Bridgers at the Grammys.

Boygenius was an opening act for some stops of the Eras Tour in 2023, and Bridgers and Swift collaborated on "Nothing New" from Swift's "Red (Taylor's Version)" album in 2021. 

All four singers were spotted together at the most recent Grammy Awards.

Swift and Gigi Hadid have consistently supported each other during their eight years of friendship.
taylor swift gigi hadid karlie kloss mtv vmas
Taylor Swift and Gigi Hadid at the 2015 VMAs.

The first evidence of Swift and Hadid's friendship was posted by the model herself, who shared a picture of them at an Oscars party in 2014.

Hadid quickly became part of Swift's squad, and they were frequently spotted out together. 

The model also appeared in the "Bad Blood" music video, and she joined Swift onstage during the 1989 tour in 2015.

The two have continued to say positive things about each other throughout the years, both in interviews and via social-media posts cheering each other on.

When Hadid's daughter was born in 2020, Swift also sent her a handmade blanket.

The friends still appear to be on good terms. They're often photographed hanging out together in New York.

Swift's interviews with Fallon show how well the two get along.
Taylor Swift during an interview with host Jimmy Fallon on Monday, October 24, 2022
Taylor Swift on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" in 2022.

Swift has appeared on "The Tonight Show" several times over the years.

The singer has a tendency to reveal exclusive scoops to Fallon during their interviews, going back to 2014 when she announced her upcoming Video Music Awards performance.

The two have shared emotional moments together as well. Swift played "New Year's Day" for the first time on TV on Fallon's first episode back after his mom died in 2017.

Two years later, the late-night host actually reached out to Swift's mother to surprise the singer by airing footage her mom caught of her after getting Lasik surgery.

Swift appeared on "The Tonight Show" after the release of "Midnights" to discuss the album, her famous collaborators, and cat breeds.

They also shared some silly photos from a pizza party Fallon hosted, including one of them and some of their other friends making a human pyramid

Swift wrote a song inspired by Lena Dunham and was even part of the actor's bridal party.
Taylor Swift Lena Dunham
Taylor Swift and Lena Dunham at the 2013 Grammys.

After both women exchanged tweets praising each other's work, Dunham and Swift shared a sweet moment together at the 2013 Grammys.

Later that year, the actor tweeted about having a great time at one of Swift's shows during the Red tour.

Dunham also dated Antonoff for years, and the couple was seen with Swift throughout their relationship. When Swift released "You Are in Love" on the "1989" deluxe album in 2014, she even told MTV that the song was inspired by Antonoff and Dunham's relationship.

Dunham was in Swift's "Bad Blood" music video in 2015 and attended the singer's Reputation tour in 2018.

The two have remained close over the years. Swift was even a bridesmaid in Dunham's small wedding ceremony to Luis Felber in 2021.

When Dunham attended a Philadelphia show of the Eras Tour, Swift played "Forever and Always" as a surprise song per the actor's request. 

Swift has been getting closer with Brittany Mahomes.
taylor swift brittany mahomes nfl game
Taylor Swift and Brittany Mahomes watched a number of Chiefs games together.

Swift's current relationship with Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce has led to budding friendships with the wives and family members of other NFL players.

Mahomes, wife of Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, has been seen with Swift at multiple games in the past year.

Brittany also began to be spotted with the rest of Swift's squad, joining her and other celebrities such as Hadid and Gomez.

Blake Lively and Swift have been close friends since 2015.
Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, and Taylor Swift have been friends for a number of years.
Ryan Reynolds, Blake Lively, and Taylor Swift have been friends for a number of years.

Lively started hanging out with Swift in 2015. The two were often photographed together and with the rest of Swift's squad.

In 2016, Lively and her husband, Ryan Reynolds, attended Swift's famous Fourth of July party.

Swift stayed close to them both through her pre-"Reputation" hibernation, a time when the singer was rarely seen out in public and seemed to end or pause many of her high-profile friendships.

The "Reputation" track "Gorgeous," released in 2017, features Lively's daughter James' voice, and Swift went on to feature the names of all of Lively and Reynolds' children, Betty, James, and Inez, throughout "Folklore."

Swift has collaborated with Reynolds as well. He can be spotted in the singer's 2019 music video for "You Need to Calm Down."

Lively also directed Swift's "I Bet You Think About Me" music video in 2021, marking her directorial debut. 

The friends have continued to post sweet photos on social media and support each other's projects.

Some fans even think Swift may have secretly announced her fourth child's name on "Midnights" — "You're on Your Own Kid" references an ambiguous "Daisy May."

Lively and Swift are often photographed hanging out together, including at Super Bowl LVIII. 

Katy Perry has had a rocky friendship with Swift, but they seem to be on good terms now.
Katy Perry Taylor Swift
Katy Perry and Taylor Swift posing at an award show.

Swift and Perry first met at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards, where they were photographed alongside Miley Cyrus.

They continued to be seen together at award shows and posted photos and tweets celebrating each other.

In 2010, Perry joined Swift during one of her Fearless shows to sing "Hot N Cold."

But by 2012, tensions between the friends started to rise when Perry began dating Swift's ex, John Mayer.

Their supposed feud made headlines in 2014 after several of Swift's dancers on her Red tour apparently left the show's run early to work with Perry.

Swift seemed to confirm that this was her breaking point with Perry in a 2014 Rolling Stone interview, where she mentioned that another female star "tried to sabotage an entire arena tour." The interview also seemed to confirm that "Bad Blood" was about Perry, and details in the song's music video added to the speculation.

In 2016, Perry attended a Kayne West concert and posted a video showing her dancing along to "Famous," which contains a harsh lyric about Swift. West and Swift have been at odds for years since the rapper famously interrupted Swift's acceptance speech at the 2009 VMAs. 

But Perry reached out to end their fight in 2018 when she sent Swift a literal olive branch.

She then appeared in Swift's "You Need to Calm Down" video the following year, notably in a scene that shows the two singers embracing.

When Perry had a daughter in 2020, Swift even sent her a hand-embroidered blanket.

Sabrina Carpenter started as a fan and ended up performing at the Eras Tour.
sabrina carpenter taylor swift eras tour
Sabrina Carpenter and Taylor Swift have performed live together.

Carpenter was a fan of Swift long before the two met. She covered Swift's "Picture to Burn" in an online video in 2009 and has mentioned that the older singer is a major inspiration for her music.

Carpenter opened for some stops of the Eras Tour and was recently spotted attending Coachella sets with Swift the night after performing at the event.

Lorde and Swift had a close friendship that seems to have faded over the past few years.
taylor and lorde
Taylor Swift and Lorde at the 2016 Vanity Fair Oscar after-party.

Lorde and Swift met in 2014 — Lorde told Fallon that Swift sent her flowers after a show and went with her to Shake Shack after. Throughout that year, they were seen together consistently.

Swift even told PopCrush that Lorde was the first person to hear her full "1989" album.

"She's one of my favorite people to kind of bounce ideas off of — she gives really good advice," she told the publication.

But in 2017, reports circulated about the two singers fighting, which started after Lorde mentioned the difficulties of being in the public eye with Swift.

While speaking to The Guardian about her friendship with Swift that year, Lorde said, "It's like having a friend with very specific allergies. There are certain places you can't go together. Certain things you can't do. There are these different sets of considerations within the friendship. It's like having a friend with an autoimmune disease."

Per Nylon, Lorde later tweeted an apology after a fan highlighted the comment on the social-media platform. In the now-deleted tweet, she wrote, "Didn't mention taylor, but regardless, i fucked up & that was really insensitive. i'm sorry."

The two have not been seen together much in the years since, despite both working closely with Antonoff.

Emma Stone was one of Swift's earliest celebrity friends, but the two haven't publicly interacted in years.
Emma Stone and Taylor Swift at the "Easy A" premiere on September 13, 2010.
Emma Stone and Taylor Swift at the "Easy A" premiere on September 13, 2010.

Stone met Swift at the 2008 Young Hollywood Awards and later brought Swift to the premiere of "Easy A" in 2010.

Per Digital Spy, in a 2011 PopSugar interview, Swift mentioned Stone as one of her closest friends, along with Gomez.

The two continued to be spotted together over the next few years, and Stone brought her then-boyfriend Andrew Garfield to Swift's 2014 Fourth of July party.

Although E! News reported that the actor attend one of Swift's 1989 tour dates in 2015, she was never brought onstage like other members of the squad.

Some fans speculated that Swift made a secret cameo in Stone's 2021 film "Cruella." And more recently, Stone attended one of Swift's Eras Tour shows. 

When "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)" was released in 2023, fans thought the vault track "When Emma Falls in Love" might be about Stone

Todrick Hall was a fan of Swift before they ever collaborated together.
todrick hall taylor swift
Todrick Hall and Taylor Swift at the 2019 VMAs.

Hall first caught Swift's attention in 2015 after posting a video of himself singing a harmonized compilation of her greatest hits. Swift tweeted out praise for the video and invited Hall to meet her backstage during the 1989 tour later that year.

They then worked together on her 2019 music video for "You Need to Calm Down," which listed them both as executive producers. Hall can also be seen in the video walking around a trailer park.

Fun footage of Hall and Swift getting ready together before the Video Music Awards that year was also shown in her "Miss Americana" documentary.

The two are still very supportive of one another on social media, but they haven't been seen together as much in recent years. 

Zoë Kravitz and Swift have been low-key friends for years.
Zoë in a pink strapless column dress with a bow on the neckline.
Zoë Kravitz at the 2022 Oscars.

Kravitz and Swift were spotted together at events and dinners as early as 2016. They've been friends since Swift's squad era and seemed to remain close after the rest of the friendship group started to dissolve.

According to Women's Wear Daily, they were even in the same quarantine bubble in 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Earlier this year, Swift praised Kravitz's performance as Catwoman in "The Batman" and called the film "phenomenal."

Kravitz also has a writing credit on two tracks of "Midnights": "Lavender Haze" and "Karma." Swift thanked Kravitz for her collaboration on the album in an Instagram post.

The friends are periodically photographed together hanging out with different celebrities. 

Keleigh Teller and Swift have quietly been friends for years.
Taylor Swift and Keleigh Teller at the 81st Annual Golden Globe Awards
Taylor Swift and Keleigh Teller at the Golden Globes.

Teller and her husband Miles both starred in Swift's "I Bet You Think About Me" music video in 2021.

But Keleigh and Swift seem to have been friends for years before that. The singer sent flowers to the Tellers to celebrate their marriage in 2019.

The two have continued to be spotted out together. Keleigh recently bought Swift a ring for her birthday in December and celebrated the Chiefs' Super Bowl win at the beginning of the year. 

Swift featured Lana Del Rey in her song "Snow on the Beach."
taylor swift lana del rey
Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey at the 2012 MTV EMAs.

Swift and Del Rey were both honored at the 2012 MTV Europe Music Awards, where Del Rey won in the best alternative category and presented Swift with the award for best female artist.

Swift then mentioned Del Rey in a 2019 interview on "The Zane Lowe Show," saying the singer was tied for her "favorite lyricist" along with Fall Out Boy's Pete Wentz.

Del Rey has also worked with Antonoff, and most recently, she was a featured vocalist on the "Midnights" track "Snow on the Beach." But listeners were quick to point out that she had an unexpectedly minor part in the song.

Swift later released "Snow On The Beach (feat. More Lana Del Rey)" in 2023. 

Brendon Urie and Swift praised each other's work for years before they ever worked together on "ME!"
taylor swift brendon urie bbmas 2019
Brendon Urie and Taylor Swift performing at the Billboard Music Awards in 2019.

Urie, best known as the front-runner of Panic! at the Disco, told PopCrush in 2014 that he wanted to work with Swift.

He was also spotted at one of Swift's Reputation shows in 2018 before covering her song "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" on a Twitch live stream.

When Swift was on the cover of Elle in April 2019, she praised the Panic! at the Disco song "I Write Sins Not Tragedies" and mentioned that she used to scream along to it with her long-time best friend Abigail Anderson Berard.

Later that month, "ME!," was released as the lead single of Swift's "Lover" album. The song featured Urie and Swift singing together, and Urie has a writing credit on the track as well.

The "ME!" music video shows both musicians surrounded by their respective aesthetics.

Behind-the-scenes footage of Urie and Swift recording the track and discussing the music video was also shown in Swift's "Miss Americana" documentary.

Swift's friendship with Cara Delevingne made frequent headlines during her "1989" era.
taylor swift with her bad blood squad at the 2015 mtv video music awards vmas
Cara Delevingne, Selena Gomez, and Taylor Swift at the 2015 MTV VMAs.

Delevingne was one of several famous friends who Swift met during her performance at the 2013 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

The two were often photographed together when Swift was in New York City with her squad.

Delevigne was also featured in the 2015 "Bad Blood" music video as "Mother Chucker," and she attended a Philadelphia show of the 1989 tour.

When Justin Bieber criticized Swift's handling of her situation with Braun in 2019, Delevingne publicly defended her.

Swift and Delevingne still sporadically pop up on each other's social media feeds — including when Swift gifted the model with a "Folklore" cardigan when the album was released in 2020.

Karlie Kloss was a main member of Swift's squad, but the two haven't been seen together in years.
taylor swift karlie kloss
Taylor Swift and Karlie Kloss seemed to be close friends.

Kloss also met Swift during the 2013 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

The two took a trip together to Big Sur in 2014 and shared plenty of photos on Instagram, most of which have since been deleted. But Kloss still has pictures of a daisy on a car dashboard, writing in the sand, and plenty of selfies of the duo up on her page from that time. 

The friends also got ready for the 2014 Met Gala together and were spotted in New York City throughout the year. Later that year, they attended the American Music Awards together and Swift returned to perform at the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show.

In a 2014 interview with Rolling Stone, Swift also said that Kloss frequently stayed over in one of the guest bedrooms in her New York City apartment. The two appeared to be so close, that some fans started speculating they were even in a romantic relationship. 

Throughout 2015, they were consistently photographed together with other members of Swift's squad and were even featured together on the cover of Vogue.

In May 2015, the model was one of the many celebrities featured in the "Bad Blood" music video.

Swift then rented an NYC apartment near Kloss' in 2016, and the two continued to post about each other throughout the year.

Reports that their friendship ended in 2017 were temporarily squashed after Kloss posted a selfie with Swift at the Reputation tour in 2018.

But in 2019, Kloss vacationed with Braun after her wedding to Joshua Kushner, which Swift did not appear to attend. 

Fans were shocked when Kloss attended an LA show of Swift's Eras Tour despite rumors that the friends had fallen out years ago. 

Post Malone and Swift collaborated after years of rumors.
Post Malone
Post Malone is featured on "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology."

Swift and Malone were rumored to be collaborating for years before any actual projects were released.

The singers first met at an awards show back in 2018 and collab rumors grew when Malone started following Swift online in 2022.

The day finally came when the artists released "Fortnight," the first song on "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology."

Swift and Rodrigo have shared some cute social-media interactions over the years.
olivia rodrigo
Olivia Rodrigo at the 2022 iHeartRadio Music Awards.

Rodrigo rose to fame on "High School Musical: The Musical: The Series," and the young star made her love of Swift known early on in her career by covering "1989" track "Cruel Summer" online in 2020. 

Swift then reposted the video, kicking off their cute back-and-forth of online support. The "Midnights" singer even sent Rodrigo a handwritten note and a ring.

Rodrigo later sampled one of Swift's songs, "New Year's Day," on her "Sour" track "1 step forward, 3 steps back" and retroactively added the artist as a cowriter on "Deja Vu."

But with the release of Rodrigo's sophomore album, "Guts," some fans are speculating that "The Grudge" was inspired by a rumored feud between Rodrigo and Swift. 

Ice Spice is a newer addition to Swift's star-studded group of friends.
Taylor Swift and Ice Spice perform onstage during "Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour" at MetLife Stadium on May 26, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Taylor Swift and Ice Spice performing at Swift's Eras Tour.

Dominican rapper Ice Spice became a vocal fan of Swift after the release of her "Miss Americana" Netflix documentary in 2020. Two years later, the Bronx native collaborated with Swift on a remix of her "Midnights" track "Karma."

Ice Spice joined Swift on stage at the New Jersey shows on her Eras tour to perform the song. 

Since then, the friends have been spotted sitting next to each other at award shows and the Super Bowl.

This story was originally published on December 13, 2023, and most recently updated on April 19, 2024.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Zuck's new AI drop is cool and all, but he's still playing catch-up with Sam Altman

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Mark Zuckerberg unveiled Meta's new AI models, Llama 3, as a fresh effort to take on rival AI firms.
  • Mark Zuckerberg just dropped Meta's new AI models.
  • Llama 3, revealed Thursday, outperforms several of its competitor models.
  • Bt what Llama 3 does not do is beat OpenAI's GPT-4.

Mark Zuckerberg just dropped Meta's newest artificial intelligence models — and they're giving people plenty of reason to get hyped.

Llama 3, unveiled on Thursday, marks the Meta chief's latest effort to take on his rivals in the race to develop more powerful forms of AI. The company bills the next-generation release as the "most capable" openly-available models to date.

Despite being the same size as their predecessors, the Llama 3 models "establish a new state-of-the-art at those scales," Meta said. That's thanks to improved capabilities in areas such as reasoning and code generation.

Other tweaks have been made too to address complaints that the last-gen AI models were "a little bit sanctimonious," as Meta's Nick Clegg put it in an interview with the Financial Times.

Perhaps the most important detail was that Meta's open-source models will soon be on par with their closed-source counterparts. Larger, 400-billion parameter Llama 3 models with multimodal features — which Meta said are still in training — will be comparable to proprietary models such as Anthropic's Claude 3 Opus and OpenAI's GPT-4 on release.

For open-source AI developers, that'll be a huge deal. The AI models they were working on looked pretty rudimentary as recently as last year as they struggled to complete sentences without repeating themselves.

As AI founder Sharon Zhou pointed out last month, seeing a response to a prompt like "'my name is is is is is' wasn't uncommon."

So yes, Llama 3 is a big step forward for Zuck and the wider open-source community's AI ambitions. But it also shows that Sam Altman's year-old model is still the standard bearer.

Catching up to GPT-4

Sam Altman
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman.

OpenAI's GPT-4, revealed in March 2023, has, for the past year, been the model to beat with everyone from giants of the industry like Google to buzzier startups like Anthropic and Mistral seeking to emulate its performance.

Google's Gemini, launched in February, just marginally beat GPT-4 on certain performance benchmarks. Anthropic's Claude models, released last month, also demonstrated marginal improvements on OpenAI's model.

But instead of outright beating GPT-4, Llama 3's forthcoming models will eventually join a string of other competitors that put themselves on the same footing as a product OpenAI put out a year ago.

That's not to be dismissive of the developments Llama 3 does represent.

Jim Fan, senior research manager at Nvidia, wrote on X that he expects the larger Llama 3 models to mark the "watershed moment that the community gains open-weight access to a GPT-4 class model," a moment that "will change the calculus" for researchers and startups.

But it's clear that nothing has yet arrived that comfortably clears the performance of what Altman has already released.

Zuckerberg doesn't seem too concerned about trying to beat GPT-4, yet. He told The Verge that the goal with Llama 3 "wasn't to build something that was way ahead." His aim was to bring AI with the capabilities of today's top models to platforms such as Facebook and Instagram.

In January, he did hint that his overall ambition was to beat GPT-4, however, after publishing a short video in which he said Meta's "long-term vision is to build general intelligence, open source it responsibly, and make it widely available so everyone can benefit."

It remains to be seen when and how a company competing for AI supremacy makes the next leap in performance.

Some in the industry, like New York University professor and AI expert Gary Marcus, see evidence emerging that models are reaching "a period of diminishing returns," raising questions about whether a generational leap in performance will be seen again.

For now, though, it's clear that Zuck and co are playing a game of catch-up with Altman.

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Ukraine says it took out one of Russia's supersonic strategic bombers for the first time

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Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber
Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 bomber
  • Ukraine claims to have shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 supersonic bomber in war first.
  • The aircraft was hit in Russia's Stavropol region.
  • The bomber was on its way to attack Ukraine, said the air forces.

Ukraine has shot down a Russian Tu-22M3 supersonic bomber for the first time since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Kyiv's military intelligence said.

In a statement released early Friday, the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine (GUR) said it had taken out one of the strategic long-range bombers that had "launched a missile attack against Ukraine on the night of April 19."

The operation was coordinated with Ukraine's Air Force. The aircraft that Ukraine and its Western allies say Russia has frequently used to bomb was hit inside southern Russia around 200 miles from Ukraine.

"For the first time, the anti-aircraft missile units of the Air Force, in cooperation with Ukraine's Main Directorate of Intelligence, destroyed a Tu-22M3 long-range strategic bomber — the carrier of Kh-22 cruise missiles, which the Russian terrorists use to attack peaceful Ukrainian cities," Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk said in a statement.

The Tu-22M3 is designed to attack ground and sea targets with guided missiles and bombs. The NATO codename for it is Backfire.

In a video circulating across social media, what appears to be a burning Tu-22M3 can be seen falling from the sky before it hits the ground.

Business Insider could not independently verify when or where the footage was filmed.

It would be the first time Ukraine has managed to destroy a Russian strategic bomber since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion.

Before the GUR's statement, the Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that a Tu-22M3 aircraft had crashed in a "deserted area" due to a "technical malfunction," according to Russian state media.

According to Stavropol Governor Vladimir Vladimirov, the plane came down in the region's Krasnogvardeysky District. Vladimirov claimed two pilots had successfully ejected from the aircraft. A third pilot was killed and a fourth is currently missing.

Tu-22M3 bomber on fire after crash-landing in Stavropol
Tu-22M3 aircraft appears to be on fire after crash-landing in Stavropol

Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson Andrii Yusov told Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty that a second Russian aircraft had been forced to turn back to base after the first one was shot down.

"It means that another series of missiles were not launched at Ukraine," Yusov said.

The Tu-22M3 has been a key target for Ukrainian air defense. Russian forces use Tu-22M3, often armed with AS-4 heavy anti-ship or Kh-22 cruise missiles, in airstrikes against Ukraine. In 2022, Russia used the Tu-22M3 to pummel the besieged city of Mariupol, per The National Interest.

In August last year, Ukraine's chief spy, Kyrylo Budanov, said intelligence estimates put Russia's Tu-22M3 fleet at 27 operable aircraft.

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Where to watch Lego Masters: Free streaming options for US, UK, and more versions

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will arnett lego

Lego Masters might be in its offseason right now, but there are plenty of ways to rewatch the original and all of the country-specific spin-offs. Whether you're already a fan or you're looking to get into an unconventional competition series, we've got you covered. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about where to watch Lego Masters free, including streaming options for the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand versions. 

Lego Masters originated in the UK in 2017 and has since branched out across the globe. In each episode, teams of two are challenged to build Lego projects that appeal to both aesthetic and practical needs. Memorable challenges include Super Bridges, Space Smash, and Tall Tower, among others. Will Arnett hosts the US version, which has already aired four seasons and is scheduled to return for a fifth.

There are four core series that span across the US, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. While they're often free to watch, it's hard to find all seasons in one place. We'll show you how to watch all seasons of Lego Masters (minus the most recent season of Lego Masters Australia) from anywhere using a VPN.

How to watch Lego Masters in the US

All four seasons of Lego Masters (US) are available to stream on Tubi and Hulu in the US. Ad-supported Hulu subscriptions start at $7.99 a month (after a 30-day free trial). Tubi is completely free and doesn't require account creation. Tubi is ad-supported, so there will be commercials when you watch. Tubi is also the US home to both seasons of Lego Masters (UK) and seasons 1-4 of Lego Masters (Australia).

How to watch Lego Masters in the UK

Both seasons of Lego Masters (UK) are available to stream through Channel 4. You just need to create a free account to register. Channel 4 is free with ads, but you can upgrade to Channel4+ for £3.99 a month (after a one-week free trial). Seasons 2 and 3 of Lego Masters (US) are available through Channel 4, although seasons 1 and 4 are missing. Seasons 2-4 of Lego Masters (Australia) are also found here, but seasons 1 and 5 aren't available. Notably, Channel 4 also has both seasons of Lego Masters (New Zealand).

How to watch Lego Masters from anywhere

If you're having trouble accessing any seasons or versions of Lego Masters, you can always try using a VPN (virtual private network). VPNs allow you to temporarily alter your device's virtual location so that you can access websites that might differ in availability from region to region. VPNs have many uses, but they're most popular for boosting internet privacy and allowing people to use their usual websites and apps while traveling abroad.

Our go-to recommendation is ExpressVPN, a beginner-friendly service with a 30-day money-back guarantee. Check out our ExpressVPN review for more information, and keep reading to learn how to use it.

How to watch Lego Masters with a VPN

  • Sign up for a VPN if you don't already have one.
  • Install it on the device you plan to watch the new episode.
  • Turn it on and set it to a US or UK location.
  • Navigate to Tubi or Channel 4 and create a free account if necessary.
  • Select the show you want to watch and enjoy.

Note: The use of VPNs is illegal in certain countries, and using VPNs to access region-locked streaming content might constitute a breach of the terms of use for certain services. Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal use of VPNs.

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Interior designers share the 11 things in your living room you should get rid of

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Teal living room with yellow chairs and brown leather couch
A living room can easily look cluttered if you don't design or organize it right.
  • We asked three interior designers to share items and trends they hate to see in a living room.
  • The designers said that fake plants and frilly, heavy drapes are outdated and need to go.
  • They also said too many throw pillows and stacks of magazines could make a space feel cluttered.

A living room should be a relaxing place to hang out, but sometimes it can become cluttered and crowded. Fortunately, there are things you can get rid of to free up some space and make your room feel more inviting.

Here are some things you should avoid having in your living room, according to interior designers.

Clear out any clutter from the living room.
living room
Find a designated space for your clutter instead.

If there's one room in the house that should be clutter-free, it's the living room, according to Julie Assenberg, a designer and owner of Julie Assenberg Interior Design.

That way, you have at least one place you can escape to and entertain unexpected guests, she said.

For example, try to find designated spaces for your shoes, coats, gloves, toys, and backpacks rather than dropping them in your living area.

Replace oversized furniture with smaller pieces.
Gray sectional couch in living room
A couch can be too big for a living room.

Big, bulky furniture is a thing of the past, according to Rachel Street, a designer and host of the show "Philly Revival" on the DIY Network.

In any home — especially smaller ones — heavy, stately furniture can make a space feel dated and crowded, she said.

Instead of that oversized plush sofa or heavy cherrywood table, opt for smaller, more proportional furniture with clean lines, Street said.

Do away with fake flowers and plants.
living room plant on table faux plant white couch stuffed with pillows too many pillows
If you can't keep a real plant alive, you're perhaps better off not having greenery in your space.

It's time to get rid of fake flowers and plants, Assenberg said.

"Plastic plants are tacky, and some might say that rather than bringing the energy of life into your home, they bring an intention to deceive," she told Business Insider. 

If you can't handle real flowers and plants, either because you don't have a green thumb or your room doesn't get enough natural light, then just go without, Assenberg said.

Too many throw pillows can make your living room feel cluttered.
living room sectional couch small rug TV stand bookshelves gray throw pillows coffee table
Throw pillows can add a decorative element to your space, but having too many can cause your space to look crowded.

"Decorative throw pillows can make a space look beautiful, but if there are too many, it's only going to bring the design of the room down and make the space feel cluttered," Street told BI.

She recommended opting for just a few pillows for comfort — try to choose ones with machine-washable covers so you can keep them looking great.

Consider swapping out mass-produced art for more original designs.
Mass-produced artwork above a console table
Original artwork is always great.

Assenberg said that when possible you should swap out cheaper, mass-produced artwork for original pieces.

"If you can't afford original art in your entire home, at least invest in one good piece for your living room," Assenberg told BI. "Original art has character and soul."

Mass-produced photos and canvas prints should be moved to the basement, a kid's bedroom, or the bathroom, but not the living room, Assenberg said.

Beanbags can take up too much space.
dogs puppies sleeping beanbag
Beanbags may be cozy, but they may not be the best choice for a living room.

Having a beanbag in your living room isn't wise, according to Amira Johnson, an interior designer at Emerald Doors.

They take up a lot of space, are difficult to fit around other furniture, and soon look tired, Johnson said. Plus, if you've ever owned one that's sprung a leak, you know how difficult it is to clean up the big mess of stuffing, she added.

Stick with structured, square-shaped furniture in living rooms, she told Insider, and leave the beanbags for a child's bedroom or a playroom.

Replace your massive DVD and CD collections with digital versions of your favorite content.
Shelves with CDs next to a TV
Some collections are best left packed away.

Years ago, having a fully stocked CD tower was a source of pride for families, but now it could just be a seldom-used stack of clutter.

Street said now is a great time to upgrade your favorite pieces of content and go digital, especially since it could mean having less clutter in your home.

Convert CDs to digital versions and donate the physical copies — along with any outdated electronics, like old VHS tapes and DVDs — to reclaim your shelf space.

Stacks of magazines and catalogs are just causing clutter, no matter how stylishly they're stored.
magazine holder on living room table
You may not actually ever read the magazines.

"We are all guilty of throwing those catalogs and magazines on the coffee table just in case we get the time to flip through them. But the reality is the pile builds up and we never really get around to looking at them," Street told BI.

Toss all those old magazines in the recycling bin and reclaim that space, she said. By removing them, you will instantly take a weight off of your living room.

Frilly draped curtains are relics of the past.
frilly draped yellow curtains window
Heavy, layered curtains can weigh down your space.

Frilly, thick curtains draped over giant rods are a thing of the past and could make a home look dated, Street said.

There's also the issue that oversized curtains block light from entering the room, and natural light is a game changer if you want your space to feel bigger and more modern, she added.

"If the rest of the room is kept simple, you can opt for a more dramatic curtain, but stick to neutral colors, patterns, and clean lines," Street told BI.

Limit knickknacks to a few of your favorites.
blue room living room
Display your favorite pieces and store the rest.

Although souvenirs and mementos are special, they can clutter your living room when you display them all, Johnson said.

The solution is to pick a few of your favorites and store the rest away, Johnson suggested. Then every few months, rotate those out for some of your other favorites.

In doing so, you can keep your collection looking fresh and uncluttered.

Not all vintage items are worth keeping, especially if they look worn or you don't like them that much.
green velvet couch simple walls throw pillows
If a couch is starting to look super worn, you might want to replace it.

Of course, there are some hand-me-downs and well-loved antiques worth keeping, Assenberg said. But if you don't like something or it is simply worn out, it's time to move on.

"Buy new, or recover those threadbare items as the budget allows, giving them a whole new life," she told BI.

This story was originally published on April 21, 2020, and most recently updated on April 19, 2024.

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The stock market can rise another 13% this year even with a dwindling rate-cut outlook, Fundstrat's Tom Lee says

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new york stock exchange
Specialist Geoffrey Friedman reacts to the Dow Jones industrials average passing 17,000 on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange July 3, 2014.
  • Stocks could still perform well this year even if rate cuts are fewer than markets initially expected. 
  • Fundstrat's Tom Lee predicted the S&P 500 could rise to 5,700 by the end of the year.
  • Equities will be powered higher by a strong economy and generally cooling inflation, he said.

Dwindling hopes for Fed rate cuts won't necessarily derail the stock market's upward trajectory through the rest of this year, according to Fundstrat's head of research Tom Lee.

Lee, one of the most bullish forecasters on Wall Street, predicted the S&P 500 could jump to 5,700 by the end of the year, implying another 13% upside for the benchmark index. The market doesn't need Fed rate cuts to do well, he said in a recent interview with CNBC, assuming that the economy remains strong and inflation continues to cool.

The economy looks like it's meeting those conditions so far, Lee added. Corporate earnings look strong, with the S&P 500 on track to notch at least 7% earnings growth this quarter, according to FactSet. Economic growth has also remained resilient, with the economy expected to grow 2.9% over the first quarter, per estimates from the Atlanta Fed.

And while headline inflation came in hotter than expected in March, most components of the consumer price index are actually posting around 2% year-per-year price growth, in-line with the Fed's long-run target. Not accounting for auto, housing, energy, and food prices, annualized inflation clocked in at 2.7% last month, Lee said, suggesting that inflation was cooling overall.

"We don't really need the Fed to make three cuts," he added.

But the only risk that looms over stocks is if inflation comes in hotter than expected, prompting the Fed to issue another rate hike, Lee warned. 

"I think that's still very much a tail scenario, but that would be the one to rattle markets the most," he said. 

Hot inflation figures have led investors to dial back their outlooks for Fed rate cuts this year, with stocks sliding over the past week as markets repriced their expectations. Investors are now expecting just one or two cuts in 2024, according to the CME FedWatch tool, down from six cuts priced in earlier this year.

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7 of the best all-inclusive experiences to book this year, from a travel planner

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back of a woman leaning against the ledge of a nice pool overlook the ocean
I've been on several all-inclusive vacations, and I've planned even more for my clients.
  • As a travel planner, my clients seem to be increasingly interested in all-inclusive trips.
  • Some of my favorite luxury resorts are in Costa Rica, the Maldives, and Isla Mujeres.
  • Cruises, group tours, and adults-only lodgings can also come with all-inclusive options. 

As a travel planner at Marvelous Mouse Travels, I know vacations are expensive — especially if you're looking to go somewhere this summer. But all-inclusive travel is often a great way to get the most value out of a luxury experience.

I've been on several all-inclusive vacations with my family, friends, and work, and I've helped other people book them in destinations around the world.

Here are some of the best all-inclusive experiences I'm recommending to my clients this year.

Try a split-stay vacation to see the best of Costa Rica.
photos of a pool and pool deck at a resort in costa rica
There are stunning Costa Rica resorts along the ocean.

Costa Rica is one of the most sought-after vacations, and for good reason. It's great for both relaxation and adventure.

I recommend booking a split stay, starting at an all-inclusive resort in Guanacaste near the beach for some fun in the sun and moving to a resort near the famous Arenal Volcano for a jungle adventure.

Some of my favorite resorts in Costa Rica are the Westin Reserva Conchal and the Dreams Las Mareas. And if you're looking for an even more unique experience, check out the glorious swim-out suites with private pools at Dreams.

Baglioni Maldives is one of my favorite all-inclusive resorts.
aerial shot of luxury villa in the water off the coast of the maldives
It's hard to top the pure beauty of the Maldives.

The Maldives, a remote set of islands in the Indian Ocean, offers a plethora of resort options for couples and families, but Baglioni Maldives is my favorite.

For many in the US, getting to the islands can be daunting — there are very few direct commercial flights, and it can take almost an entire day. But it's hard to beat the country's luxury accommodations and gorgeous landscape.

The Maldives also has some of the most beautiful marine life and coveted spots for snorkeling and scuba diving.

No matter where you go, overwater bungalows are the ultimate all-inclusive splurge.
villas on the water at a resort in the maldives
The Maldives has some great overwater bungalow options.

Overwater bungalows — villas standing on poles over open ocean water — are prevalent at all-inclusive resorts in destinations like the Maldives, Fiji, and Bali.

But I've also come across the luxurious accommodations at select adults-only Sandals Resorts throughout the Caribbean.

I think having a private villa on the water is the perfect way to unwind and relax.

Adults-only vacations are on the rise.
kari and her husband posing for a selfie on the balcony of an all inclusive resort on the ocean
Although I love traveling with my kids, it's nice to get away with my husband.

Traveling with kids can be a blast, but I also think it's important for adults to take a much-needed break on their own.

Adults-only resorts have been a total respite for me and my husband after hectic months of juggling work with our kids' school and sports schedules.

If you're looking to unwind with a partner, relax on a girls' trip, or even connect with your adult children, there are countless adults-only, all-inclusive resorts to choose from, depending on where you're looking to visit.

Some properties, including Sandals and Beaches Resorts, also offer butler service. Designated staff members can help with anything from room requests and dining reservations to cabana rentals and transportation coordination.

I upgraded to the service at my favorite adults-only spot, Le Blanc Los Cabos, and I felt totally pampered.

Isla Mujeres is pure luxury.
fancy infinite pool with swing chairs and underwater loungers looking the ocean
Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island in Mexico.

Isla Mujeres, a small island off the coast of Cancún, is known for its crystal-clear, turquoise water and peaceful vibe. It's also home to Playa Norte, one of the best beaches in Mexico.

Impressions Isla Mujeres by Secrets is a gorgeous all-inclusive resort on the island. It offers luxury at its finest, but with only 125 rooms, it has a boutique feel.

One of my favorite features of the resort is the waterslide that leads right into the beautiful ocean.

There are plenty of all-inclusive packages at sea.
kari posing for a selfie with a big cruise ship docked at port behind her
I like splurging on a luxury cruise every once in a while.

Cruising is one of the most popular vacations, whether it's an epic adventure on a Royal Caribbean Cruise, a couples-only journey on Virgin Voyages, or a regal tour of Europe on Viking River Cruises.

Although cruises aren't traditionally considered all-inclusive, with the right booking, they can have the same feel as a luxury resort.

Most cruise bookings include food, nonalcoholic drinks, and live entertainment. If you add beverage packages and excursions in advance, your trip should be fully paid for before you depart.

Book a small-group or private tour if you're looking for adventure.
whale breaching the water in front of a small rock island with pine trees in the ocean in alaska
There are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in Alaska.

Group travel is a great way to explore new places while soaking up culture and history.

Popular destinations include Italy, Japan, Costa Rica, and Alaska, and many travel companies take care of everything for you, essentially making it all-inclusive.

I like Adventures by Disney, which offers small-group travel all over the world facilitated by seasoned guides. All the trip details are taken care of, including experiences, food, lodging, and transportation.

Additionally, Kensington Tours offers luxury private travel where every facet of the trip is meticulously planned for you.

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An American came back from Europe with a $143,000 phone bill after failing to set up international roaming

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A stock image shows a tourist photographing the Gorner Glacier in Switzerland.
A stock image shows a tourist photographing the Gorner Glacier in Switzerland.
  • A Florida man received a $143,000 phone bill from T-Mobile after an overseas trip to Switzerland.
  • The charges were due to his phone not being set for international roaming, according to ABC Action News.
  • After legal intervention and media coverage, T-Mobile agreed to credit the entire amount.

A Florida man returned from a trip to Switzerland with his wife last September to discover he was facing an unexpectedly massive phone bill, Tampa's ABC Action News reported.

Rene Remund said that after returning home he received his bill from T-Mobile. He initially thought he was being charged $143 for sending photos and texts to family and friends from the Alps, according to the local news outlet.

But the actual charge was much higher — around $143,000 for 9.5 gigabytes of data used overseas.

According to Forbes, the average annual salary in Florida is $55,980, making the bill more than twice what an average worker makes each year in the state.

Remund had incurred thousands of dollars in daily roaming charges because his phone was not set up for international roaming, the report said.

Most US customers' domestic plans do not cover usage abroad, according to the Federal Communications Commission.

Remund said he contacted T-Mobile, which confirmed the bill was indeed what he owed, per ABC Action News.

Remund did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

Remund enlisted an attorney, who wrote letters to T-Mobile's president hoping for a response, the local outlet reported. The attorney also contacted ABC Action News, which subsequently contacted T-Mobiles's corporate office.

In a statement provided to BI by email, a T-Mobile spokesperson confirmed that the carrier agreed to credit Remund's account for the entire month.

"This shouldn't have happened and we fully credited the customer," the spokesperson said. "We are taking steps to avoid it from happening again. "

In a statement to ABC Action News, T-Mobile advised customers who may be on older plans to check to see if international roaming and data are included.

Remund reportedly said he always notifies T-Mobile before leaving the US for vacations, and this time visited a T-Mobile store to tell them of his travels.

He also told the news outlet that it was a huge relief to no longer be on the hook for the six-figure bill.

The amount of data Remund used isn't considered excessive. According to telecommunication company Ericsson, the North American monthly average data usage per smartphone was an estimated 25.9 gigabytes in 2023.

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Where to buy The Tortured Poets Department: Get every version of Taylor Swift's new album

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taylor swift grammys 2024
Taylor Swift accepts the award for best pop vocal album at the 2024 Grammys.

Happy "The Tortured Poets Department" release to all who celebrate. Taylor Swift's latest album hit streaming at midnight on Friday, April 19, and is now available in stores. If you're looking for a streaming link or would rather order your physical copies online, we've got you covered.

"The Tortured Poets Department" marks Swift's eleventh studio album, coming on the heels of a whirlwind year that saw the Eras Tour take over the world and multiple Taylor's Version re-releases make it to the top of the charts. As with many of Swift's albums, she will release multiple versions of "The Tortured Poets Department" containing different bonus tracks. 

At 2 a.m. on Friday, Swift announced that "The Tortured Poets Department" was actually a surprise double album and dropped 15 additional songs on streaming for "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology." The run-time of the full extended album clocks in at a little over two hours with 31 total songs, making it a true Swiftie feast.

All physical versions of the original "The Tortured Poets Department" are currently available to purchase in stores and online (although the cassette version sold through Swift's website is currently unavailable). Digital versions are also for sale, which is where you can find "The Anthology" edition. 

Check out everything you need to know about where to buy "The Tortured Poets Department" below, including how to get your hands on every exclusive CD and vinyl release (plus, we'll explain what the differences are). In total, there are six existing physical versions available for purchase, and we'll give you the details on all of them.

The Tortured Poets Department Vinyl

You can enjoy "The Tortured Poets Department" in record form with Swift's Ghosted White vinyl. The album spans two different vinyls, both included, with four songs per side (except for the last side, which has five songs thanks to the bonus track).

The Tortured Poets Department CD

The CD version of "The Tortured Poets Department" with "The Manuscript" has a bonus track and is sold through multiple retailers, not just Target. This version has a double-sided poster and a replica of Swift's handwritten lyrics, which are unique to this iteration of the CD.  

The Tortured Poets Department Target Exclusives

One vinyl and three CD versions of "The Tortured Poets Department" are sold exclusively at Target. The Phantom Clear Vinyl includes the 16 regular tracks and "The Manuscript" bonus song. 

Each CD version has 16 original tracks and one of three bonus songs: "The Albatross," "The Black Dog," or "The Bolter." Each of the three versions has different disc artwork, in addition to several other collectible perks.

The Tortured Poets Department Digital Streaming

The fastest way to hear "The Tortured Poets Department" is through digital streaming. You can stream the album on services Spotify and Apple Music. You can also purchase digital copies of the album through vendors like Amazon, which sells MP3 copies of both the original and anthology versions.

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The best Android smartwatches in 2024

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A side by side of a person wearing the Garmin Forerunner 745 and the Google Pixel Watch on a succulent background.
There are a wide variety of worthwhile Android smartwatches. The best option depends on your needs and budget.

The best Android smartwatches seamlessly integrate with Android phones to act as a dynamic extension of that device. They send calls, email, app, and text notifications, are easy to navigate, and offer various health and fitness tracking tools.

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is our top pick among the best Android smartwatches. Although it works best with a Samsung phone, this rugged wearable still offers the finest combined Android smartwatch and fitness tracker experience with a range of trackable activities, an intuitive interface, and multi-day battery life. For a budget pick, we like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4. It has similar features as the Watch 5 Pro but costs far less.

Our top picks for the best Android smartwatches

Best overall: Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro - See at Amazon

Best Fitbit: Fitbit Sense 2 - See at Amazon

Best for Pixel users: Google Pixel Watch 2 - See at Amazon

Best with bezel: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic - See at Amazon

Best budget: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 - See at Best Buy

Best battery life: Fitbit Inspire 3 - See at Amazon

Best for runners: Garmin Forerunner 745 - See at Amazon

Best for outdoor adventures: Garmin Forerunner 935 - See at Walmart


Best overall

With a price drop, the previous-generation Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is still the best Android smartwatch, even when the Galaxy Watch 6 is available. With multi-day battery life, accurate activity tracking, and unique insights such as body composition data and sleep analysis, it's the perfect combination of a smartwatch and a health and fitness tracker for the Android user — more so than the Galaxy Watch 6 series.

Design-wise, the titanium Watch 5 Pro has a round watch face and a 1.36-inch touchscreen display that offers tons of viewable data. With the right watch face, you could have everything from the week's upcoming weather forecast and the sunrise/sunset schedule to your daily steps, burned calories, and workout shortcuts displayed. It's also compatible with a variety of the best Samsung Galaxy Watch bands.

As a smartwatch, the Watch 5 Pro is excellent. It uses Google's WearOS operating system, which functions seamlessly. It gets app notifications, text alerts, emails, and phone calls and is easy to navigate. 

A Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro smartwatch.
Samsung's Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is still the top smartwatch for Android users.

Fitness-focused folks will appreciate the variety of activities it tracks, including common things like running and cycling, as well as advanced sports like snowboarding, hiking, or trail running. It even has a useful track-back option that works like a digital breadcrumb, showing your exact route through a forested area. However, this only works with hiking and cycling, which is disappointing as it'd be great for runners, too. 

One of the Watch 5 Pro's best features is its health tracking. It has everything from in-depth sleep tracking, which monitors sleep patterns and habits, to a body composition app that charts body fat percentage and muscle mass. 

There is one minor caveat: some features, like the ECG app that tracks heart rhythms, aren't compatible with anything other than a Samsung phone, making the watch's overall experience better on a Samsung phone than on something like the Google Pixel. It's not a dealbreaker, but it's something worth considering if you don't own a Samsung phone. 

Despite those issues, Samsung's Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is the best Android smartwatch for almost any user. It excels as a smartwatch, has robust fitness-tracking capability, and offers unique health insights. This is as good as it gets on Android.  

Read our full Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro review.


Best Fitbit

Fitbit's Sense 2 is everything you want in a dependable fitness tracker. It's compatible with several trackable activities, provides unique insights into your fitness habits, monitors your sleep, stress, and menstrual cycles, and has a built-in GPS. It even has a battery that lasts upward of five to six days.

We found it to be one of the most accurate fitness trackers we've worn, specifically how quickly it synced its GPS before an activity. Within seconds, the watch found a GPS signal, and we were ready to start tracking our activity. It also has an interface that's easy to navigate, which is especially helpful for first-time Fitbit wearers or those new to fitness trackers.

The Sense 2 has several helpful health and wellness tools, too. This includes a skin temperature sensor, heart rhythm (ECG) readings, and Fitbit's new real-time stress tracker. Stress tracking was especially interesting during our tests as we liked how well it charted our stress levels while offering useful feedback on ways to lower them. 

The Fitbit Sense 2 sitting on a wood desk.
The Fitbit Sense 2 is a great all-around activity tracker, and although it does lack some standard smartwatch features, it’s still an impressive wearable.

One area where the Sense 2 doesn't impress is its smartwatch capability in its price range. It's technically one of Fitbit's "smartwatches," but it doesn't exactly live up to that billing. For instance, there's no third-party app support available, which is a frustrating decision by Fitbit. 

And bafflingly, it doesn't support Google Assistant like the original Sense did, which is confounding since Google is the parent company. Oddly, the Sense 2 supports Amazon's Alexa instead. 

Still, overall, the Sense 2 is an adequate smartwatch that still gets notifications like calls, texts, and emails, but its strengths lie in its health and fitness tracking. For those looking for a fitness-first smartwatch, the Sense 2 is the best Android smartwatch to buy (and one of the best Fitbits overall).  

Read our full Fitbit Sense 2 review.


Best for Pixel users

Google addressed several of the original Pixel Watch's shortcomings with the Pixel Watch 2, and it's easily the best smartwatch for Pixel users. The Pixel Watch 2 not only excels in being a smartwatch, but Google's improvements make its current smartwatch a suitable option for fitness tracking and health monitoring, unlike the original. 

Its operating system, WearOS, delivers a seamless experience between the available apps you can access, whatever notifications you might receive, and its smart features like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Wallet. These features allow it to satisfy the one major requirement of a smartwatch: to be an effective extension of your smartphone. Plus, it's compatible with a variety of the best Google Pixel Watch bands, so it can fit anyone's style.

The home screen of a Google Pixel Watch 2
The Google Pixel 2 is a big improvement over the original.

The Pixel Watch 2's GPS is accurate for fitness tracking, and you get a solid range of health and fitness features, like sleep tracking, all-day heart-rate monitoring, stress monitoring, and ECG readings. New skin temperature sensors and an updated heart rate sensor contribute to unique sleep quality insights. 

Unlike the Galaxy Watch 5 Pro or other Samsung smartwatches, the Pixel Watch 2 makes its features available to all, no matter which Android phone you use. However, some features like advanced sleep data, advanced stress management tools, and Fitbit's unique Daily Readiness feature are behind Fitbit's Premium $10/month subscription service. A six-month free trial of Fitbit Premium when you buy the Pixel Watch 2 lets you decide whether it's worth keeping.

Read our full Google Pixel Watch 2 review.


Best with bezel

Samsung's latest Galaxy Watch, the Watch 6 Classic, retains the high bar set by previous generations, even if it doesn't push the line forward in any major way. But despite its minimal new additions, the experience of using the Watch 6 Classic is still a highly premium one, making it not just one of the best Android smartwatches you can buy but one of the best smartwatches, too.

The most notable update on the Watch 6 Classic is the return of the rotating bezel, a feature last seen on the Watch 4 series. Instead of relying on the watch's touchscreen to scroll its interface, the rotating bezel allows easy navigation. I found it to be especially useful while working out where spinning the dial was more manageable and quicker than trying to swipe the screen.

The Watch 6 Classic also has impressive battery life that I consistently got almost two days out of, depending on how often I used the built-in GPS for workouts. I always got a full day and night of battery, though sometimes I needed to recharge the watch the following afternoon. This is a welcome upgrade over the Watch 5, though it is still a bit shorter than the multi-day battery life of the Watch 5 Pro.

A Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic sitting on a countertop.
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic has a satisfying rotating bezel that offers extra control.

Beyond those upgrades, the Watch 6 Classic is highly similar to the Watch 5 generation before it. It has a large catalog of health and wellness features, including sleep tracking, a body composition analyzer, and stress level monitoring.

The two health features I used most were the body composition analyzer and the stress tracker. With the body composition analyzer, the watch provided real-time readings of my body fat percentage, BMI, and muscle mass, which I used to chart my overall fitness progress. The Watch 5 Pro also offered this, so I had a baseline of knowledge (and existing data) to compare to, and it functioned the same.

I found the stress tracker to be a helpful feature, too, mainly because it's interesting to see when the watch would say I had higher stress levels and when I didn't. This positively impacted my day-to-day life as I would implement some of the recommendations for lowering my stress and found them effective.

The Watch 6 Classic does severely lack as a fitness tracker, though, and its inaccurate GPS makes it difficult to recommend to more active users. Not only would it take upwards of a minute to sync a GPS connection, but its distance- and pace-tracking were off by significant margins. Those looking for a quality fitness tracker experience should instead opt for the Watch 5 Pro, which is a key reason it's still the top pick for Android users overall.

Design-wise, the Watch 6 Classic is a stylish smartwatch that I thoroughly enjoyed wearing. Its big watch face might be too large for folks with smaller wrists, but I liked how much data I could display on it. Its bright watch face makes it easy to quickly reference the screen or tell the time.

Overall, it looks, feels, and functions like a premium wearable, and while it may not satisfy those looking for a reliable fitness tracker, it's an excellent smartwatch. Its compatibility with a variety of the best Samsung Galaxy Watch bands is a nice feature, too.

Read our full Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic review.


Best budget

When we first reviewed the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, we couldn't help notice that it was the closest thing to an Apple Watch for Android users. Two years later, that sentiment goes to the next generation Watch 5 Pro but the Watch 4 is still an impressive wearable — only now, it costs far less than when it was released. 

The release of the Galaxy Watch 4 was Samsung's first go with utilizing WearOS as the watch's operating system, as it decided to go away from the in-house interface, Tizen OS. The switch paid off in spades as WearOS pairs perfectly with the Watch 4. Navigation is fluid, notifications can be fully customized, and there's a wide selection of downloadable apps (thanks to Google Play Store access). 

Other highlights of the watch include its extensive health and fitness capability. It tracks activities like running, cycling, and hiking, and we found the syncing and tracking capability to be on par with some of the best fitness trackers

Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 4 worn on the author’s wrist.
The Galaxy Watch 4 is still available at an excellent price.

We especially like its in-depth sleep tracking, which monitors sleep patterns and can help turn bad habits into good ones. Its body measurement features are also unique as it analyzes your body weight, muscle mass, and water weight to give you an idea of your overall body composition. 

All of this equates to the Watch 4 being one of the best Android smartwatches. Of course, there are still a few drawbacks, most notable of which is its watered-down experience on anything other than a Samsung phone, as some features, like the ECG app, aren't available. We don't see this as a total dealbreaker, but users of other phones, like the Google Pixel, should consider this before purchasing. 

Often available for under $200, the Watch 4 isn't just at its lowest price since it was released, but it's the cheapest we've seen a smartwatch of this quality. You rarely find a premium full-featured wearable in this price range. 

Read our full Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 review.


Best battery life

Fitbit's Inspire 3 is one of the brand's most basic and affordable wearables, but it's still an impressive activity tracker for Android users (and one of the best Fitbits you can buy). It offers a range of health and fitness tracking insights, a no-frills interface, and advanced features like skin temperature sensing and in-depth sleep tracking. 

But what makes the Inspire 3 such a great tracker is how anyone from beginners to expert users will be satisfied using it. Navigating the watch is intuitive enough for first-time wearers, while the wide variety of trackable activities and useful health metrics give it appeal to those familiar with fitness trackers. It's also compatible with a range of the best Fitbit Inspire 3 bands, so users have even more ways to customize their wearable.

A person wearing a Fitbit Inspire 3 on their wrist.
The Fitbit Inspire 3 has stunning battery life.

At less than $100, it's a hell of a bargain, too. What's especially great about its low price is that the Inspire 3 is the latest generation of the Inspire line, meaning it's the most current and updated version yet.

The watch does come with a few drawbacks, though. Absent is built-in GPS and the ability to download additional apps. Although the lack of apps isn't a huge downside, not having GPS is, especially for hardcore athletes who want exact timing and activity tracking. Our tests found that the tracking worked well when you sync GPS via a companion phone. But that means you do have to tote your phone along.

Those cons aside, the Inspire 3 is still a powerful activity tracker in a small, budget-friendly form factor. For Android users looking for something basic, trying out a fitness tracker for the first time, or who just want something straightforward and easy to use, the Inspire 3 is the best Android smartwatch on the market. 

Read our full Fitbit Inspire 3 review.


Best for runners

The Garmin Forerunner 745 isn't just the best running watch for Android users; it also happens to be one of the best running watches, period. It's that good. Garmin's made its name on manufacturing powerful sports wearables, and the 745 is the latest in a long line of triumphs from the brand. 

What makes the 745 so good is its accurate tracking capabilities and easy-to-navigate interface, and it stands out from the competition with its unique approach to workout recommendations and focus on rest and recovery, two vital aspects of an effective workout routine. 

For the workout recommendations, the watch requires a 10-day monitoring period to assess your day-to-day activity and performance. Once those 10 days are up, it adapts its recommendations to your specific activity needs. One day, it might have you pump up the mileage and go for a several-mile long run, while another may see that you need more rest and dial the day's workout down to a recovery jog. 

Garmin Forerunner 745
The Garmin Forerunner 745 is the best smartwatch for runners, no matter what ecosystem you use.

Whatever it recommends, it does so in lockstep with its rest and recovery insights. In other words, the watch isn't just going to run you into the ground but rather, it takes a thoughtful approach to giving your body the time to properly recover between strenuous workouts. 

The 745 feels like having a personal trainer right on your wrist with all these features active. Of course, you don't have to do the daily workouts, but they do prove worthwhile for anyone stumped about what to do on a certain day or those who want to take the guesswork out of how to train for a race or event. 

Other highlights of the 745 include a comfortable, lightweight design that won't weigh heavy on your wrist, even during long runs, as well as a large, colorful display. The big display does tend to look rather large on folks with smaller wrists, but it's especially useful in the middle of a run to easily see your training stats without having to squint or stop running. 

Then there's the battery life, which Garmin claims lasts up to six days on a single charge. We found this to be mostly true during our tests, as it would last a little longer and a little shorter than that estimation, depending on how heavily we used it daily. 

For consistent runners, the Garmin Forerunner 745 is the best Android smartwatch to buy. 

Read our full Garmin Forerunner 745 review.


Best for outdoors

Like the Forerunner 745 above, the Forerunner 935 is one of Garmin's best wearables. And for the outdoorsy Android user, it's the best.

The 935 is compatible with a wide range of trackable outdoor activities such as hiking, trail running, skiing, and snowboarding, to name a few, and can track your trips via its accurate built-in GPS (which is a must-have for those venturing into the backcountry). 

Although the watch itself is on the medium to large end of the wearable spectrum, it's incredibly lightweight and comes with a comfortable rubber band. The watch's face features tempered, scratch-resistant glass and a durable, stainless steel bezel. 

Garmin Forerunner 935
The Garmin Forerunner 935 is unbeaten for outdoorsy Android users.

But where the watch truly shines is how Garmin's interface functions with the activities it tracks. The tracking screens show everything from heart rate and distance traveled to training status, heart rate variability, and total training load. In other words, you have everything you'd ever need right there on your wrist. 

We did have one nitpick with the watch: its battery doesn't last much longer than a single day, especially if you're relying on GPS and heart rate tracking for long periods. This isn't an issue for those who return home each night, but this could pose a problem for anyone out on a backpacking trip or who forgot their charger. 

Still, the Forerunner 935 is a full-featured watch that's the best Android smartwatch for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Read our full Garmin Forerunner 935 review.


How we test Android smartwatches

To compile this guide, we compared the best Android smartwatches across various categories, including fit & comfort, features, battery life, ease of use, accuracy, and compatibility. Here's how each category factored into which watches made the guide:

Fit & comfort: This was a straightforward assessment of how well the watch felt on-wrist while wearing it normally throughout the day and during workouts. We also looked at how easy it was to dial in the right fit with whatever the clasp system was.

Features: Simply put, what are all the features native to a certain Android smartwatch? We looked at what kinds of apps were natively available right out of the box, as well as what was accessible via an app store like Google Play. We also assessed how well these features elevated the overall experience. 

Battery life: Battery life is one of the most important aspects of a smartwatch and can dictate which watch is best for a certain user. If a fitness-focused watch has a hard time getting through just one day on a single charge, then that watch won't be good for something constantly using GPS or the heart rate monitor. Charging a watch every day isn't a dealbreaker, but it's useful to know what a watch offers and how it affects the overall experience. 

Ease of use: Smartwatches should ideally not have a steep learning curve and should be easy to navigate right out of the box. Of course, not all operating systems are the same, so there will be some differences from watch to watch. If a wearable is hard to navigate, you're less likely to use it. 

Accuracy: Tracking accuracy can make or break a smartwatch, especially for folks who use it as a training tool. Some are inherently better than others but even small discrepancies in tracking capability can make a big impact. We tested this by running a mile with each watch and comparing the differences in time and distance. 

Compatibility: Testing compatibility for Android smartwatches consisted of using each watch with several Android smartphones. No single Android watch is fully compatible with every single Android phone, but some do function better on a competitor's device without much change to the overall experience. For instance, our top pick, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, functions best on a Samsung phone, while the experience on something like the Google Pixel is watered-down.  


What to look for in an Android smartwatch

The main screen of a Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
Style is important when picking a smartwatch, but it shouldn't be your only consideration.

Before purchasing a new Android smartwatch, it's important to consider how you plan on using it and which models fit your lifestyle best. Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping: 

Style: The best smartwatches for Android come in several styles suited to different users. There are fitness tracker-type wearables like the Sense 2 or Inspire 3 designed to function best during activities. Then there are watches like the Google Pixel that evoke a more traditional wristwatch design. Deciding which style best suits your lifestyle is a key factor when shopping.  

Battery life: Battery life estimates vary wildly among the best Android smartwatches, as some, like the Google Pixel Watch, need to be recharged daily. Others, like the Fitbit Sense 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, boast multi-day battery life and are often better for active users who may be using the built-in GPS throughout the day or who travel often. 

Smart features: Although every smartwatch comes with smart features, some are smarter than others. Take the Fitbit Inspire 3, for example. This watch offers basic smartwatch capability, including call, text, email, and app notifications, but not much beyond that. Compared to the Google Pixel, which offers in-depth smart features that allow users to interact with the notifications, the Inspire 3 is leagues lower.

Ecosystem: Each smartwatch in this guide shares the Android ecosystem as a foundation, but they all have a secondary ecosystem to keep in mind. The Garmin Forerunners are compatible with the Garmin Connect App, the Sense 2 with Fitbit's app (and Fitbit Premium), and the Watch 5 Pro with Samsung Health. It's worth researching companion apps to see what you prefer. 

Display: The display native to an Android smartwatch can be as interactive as what's found on the Google Pixel Watch or as basic as what the Fitbit Inspire 3 offers. Your overall experience will change based on a watch's display, so it's important to understand what a watch offers and if that syncs with your preferred smartwatch experience.


FAQs

What is the best Android smartwatch?

This depends on your preference and how you intend to use the watch. Some Android smartwatches, like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro or Fitbit Sense 2, are better for fitness-focused users, and the former is our top overall pick for its combination of a fitness tracker and smartwatch experience. 

For those looking for a smartwatch that works fully and seamlessly with any Android phone, including a Google Pixel phone, the Google Pixel Watch 2 would fare better, and it's also solid as a fitness tracker. 

It's important to understand how you intend to use the smartwatch to make the best purchasing decision.

Do all Android smartwatches work on any Android smartphone? 

Yes and no. While most of the best Android smartwatches are compatible with all models of Android smartphones, some deliver a different overall experience. 

For instance, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro and Galaxy Watch 6 Classic function more seamlessly on a Samsung smartphone than it does on something like a Google Pixel. Some app access is limited, while the companion apps used to customize the watch differ. However, a watch like the Google Pixel Watch functions nearly similarly on the Google Pixel Phone as on a Samsung phone. 

Can you use an Apple Watch with an Android smartphone? 

No, the Apple Watch is only compatible with an iPhone running iOS. Unlike wearables from brands like Garmin or Fitbit, which work on iPhone and Android phones, the Apple Watch only functions on an iOS device.

Similarly, the best Android smartwatches won't work on an iPhone and are only compatible with smartphones running the Android operating system. 

Do you need an Android smartphone to use these watches?

Yes. Although you don't technically need a smartphone to power up a smartwatch, you won't be able to unlock its full functionality without syncing it to a smartphone via Bluetooth. 

Without a phone, a smartwatch could only tell the time and perform a few of its basic functions, like counting steps and how many calories you've burned. However, you'd have no way of accessing the amassed data without a device like a smartphone (or tablet). 

Can you use an iPhone with an Android smartwatch?

No. To get the full functionality out of an Android smartwatch, you'll need to use an Android smartphone. While nothing stops an iPhone user from wearing an Android smartwatch, they wouldn't be able to take advantage of its basic smartphone compatibility and would have an incredibly watered-down experience.

Do some Android smartwatches work better with certain Android devices?

The most common compatibility issue Android smartwatches encounter is when using an Android device from a different brand. For instance, Samsung's Galaxy Watches lose some functionality when used with a Google Pixel Phone. The same goes for using a Google Pixel Watch with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, though it's not as drastic. 

While you can still use those watches with phones from different brands, you'll typically get the experience of using the same Android device brand with whatever Android smartwatch you buy.

Best overall: Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro
A Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro smartwatch on a patterned surface.

Samsung's Galaxy Watch lineup has been among the best Android smartwatches for years, and its latest release, the Watch 5 Pro, places it right at the top of the industry. With multi-day battery life, accurate activity tracking, and unique insights such as body composition data and sleep analysis, it's the perfect combination of both a smartwatch and a health and fitness tracker for the Android user. 

Design-wise, the Watch 5 Pro has a round watch face and a 1.36-inch touchscreen display that offers tons of viewable data. With the right watch face, you could have everything from the week's upcoming weather forecast and the sunrise/sunset schedule to your daily steps, burned calories, and workout shortcuts displayed. It's also compatible with a variety of the best Samsung Galaxy Watch bands.

As a smartwatch, the Watch 5 Pro is excellent. It uses Google's WearOS operating system which functions seamlessly. It gets app notifications, text alerts, emails, and phone calls, and is easy to navigate. 

Fitness-focused folks will appreciate the variety of activities it tracks, including common things like running and cycling, as well as advanced sports like snowboarding, hiking, or trail running. It even has a useful track-back option that works like a digital breadcrumb feature that shows your exact route through, say, a forested area. However, this only works with hiking and cycling, which is disappointing as it'd be great for runners, too. 

One of the Watch 5 Pro's best features is its health tracking. It has everything from in-depth sleep tracking, which monitors sleep patterns and habits, to a body composition app that charts things like body fat percentage and muscle mass. 

There is one minor caveat, however: the watch's overall experience is far better on a Samsung phone than on something like the Google Pixel. It's not a dealbreaker but some features, like the ECG app that tracks heart rhythms, aren't compatible with anything other than a Samsung phone.

Despite those issues, Samsung's Galaxy Watch 5 Pro is the best Android smartwatch for almost any user (and our pick as one of the best smartwatches, too). It excels as a smartwatch, has robust fitness-tracking capability, and offers unique health insights. This is as good as it gets on Android.  

Read our full review of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro.

Best Fitbit: Fitbit Sense 2
The Fitbit Sense 2 sitting on a wood desk.
The Fitbit Sense 2 is a great all-around activity tracker, and although it does lack some standard smartwatch features, it’s still an impressive wearable.

Fitbit's Sense 2 is everything you want in a dependable fitness tracker. It's compatible with several trackable activities, provides unique insights into your fitness habits, monitors your sleep, stress, and menstrual cycles, and has a built-in GPS. It even has a battery that lasts upward of five to six days.

We found it to be one of the most accurate fitness trackers we've worn, specifically how quickly it synced its GPS before an activity. Within seconds, the watch found a GPS signal and we were ready to start tracking our activity. It also has an interface that's easy to navigate, which is especially helpful for first-time Fitbit wearers or those new to fitness trackers.

The Sense 2 has several helpful health and wellness tools, too. This includes a skin temperature sensor, heart rhythm (ECG) readings, and Fitbit's new real-time stress tracker. Stress tracking was especially interesting during our tests as we liked how well it charted our stress levels while offering useful feedback on ways to lower them. 

One area where the Sense 2 doesn't impress is its smartwatch capability. It's technically one of Fitbit's "smartwatches" but it doesn't exactly live up to that billing. For instance, there's no third-party app support available, which is a frustrating decision by Fitbit, nor does it allow access to tools like Google Assistant (despite Google being the parent company). It also won't store or play music. 

Although some may consider these drawbacks, we don't see them as a reason not to buy the Sense 2. It's an adequate smartwatch that still gets notifications like calls, texts, and emails, but its strengths lie in its health and fitness tracking. For those looking for a fitness-first smartwatch, the Sense 2 is the best Android smartwatch to buy (and one of the best Fitbits overall, too).  

Read our full review of the Fitbit Sense 2.

Best for Pixel users: Google Pixel Watch
A Google Pixel Watch sitting against a plant.

The Google Pixel Watch experience is an interesting one. On the one hand, it's the best pure smartwatch for Android users with an easy-to-navigate interface, wide app compatibility, and the ability to answer texts, emails, and phone calls.

But as a fitness tracker, it's awful. This is especially disappointing since Google is now the parent company of the fitness wearable brand, Fitbit. Despite that, the Pixel Watch is bogged down by connectivity issues, syncing problems, and poor GPS tracking.

And while those may be deal breakers for fitness-focused folks, there's no denying it's still an impressive smartwatch. Its operating system, WearOS, delivers a seamless experience between the available apps you can access, whatever notifications you might receive, and its smart features like Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Wallet.

These features allow it to satisfy the one major requirement of a smartwatch: to be an effective extension of your smartphone. With the Google Pixel Watch, anything you want to do on your phone, you can do on your wrist. Plus, it's compatible with a variety of the best Google Pixel Watch bands, so it can fit anyone's personal style.

Not everyone shopping for a wearable needs something capable of tracking their workouts and instead just wants it to serve as their phone away from their phone. The Google Pixel Watch is exactly that, and for Android users, it's the best pure smartwatch they can buy.

Read our full review of the Google Pixel Watch.

Best with bezel: Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic
A Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic sitting on a countertop.

Samsung's latest Galaxy Watch, the Watch 6 Classic, retains the high bar set by previous generations, even if it doesn't push the line forward in any major way. But despite its minimal new additions, the experience of using the Watch 6 Classic is still a highly premium one, making it not just one of the best Android smartwatches you can buy but one of the best smartwatches, too.

The most notable update on the Watch 6 Classic is the return of the rotating bezel, a feature last seen on the Watch 4. Instead of relying on the watch's touchscreen to scroll its interface, the rotating bezel allows easy navigation. I found it to be especially useful while working out where spinning the dial was more manageable, and quicker, than trying to swipe the screen.

The Watch 6 Classic also has impressive battery life that I consistently got almost two days out of, depending on how often I used the built-in GPS. I always got a full day and night of battery, though sometimes I needed to recharge the watch the following afternoon. This is a welcome upgrade over the Watch 5, though it is still a bit shorter than the multi-day battery life of the Watch 5 Pro.

Beyond those upgrades, the Watch 6 Classic is highly similar to the Watch 5 generation before it. It has a deep offering of health and wellness features, including sleep tracking, a body composition analyzer, and stress level monitoring.

The two health features I used most were the body composition analyzer and the stress tracker. With the body composition analyzer, the watch provided real-time readings of my body fat percentage, BMI, and muscle mass which I used to chart my overall fitness progress. The Watch 5 Pro also offered this, so I had a baseline of knowledge (and existing data) to compare to and it functioned the same.

I found the stress tracker to be a helpful feature, too, mainly because it's interesting to see when the watch would say I had higher stress levels and when I didn't. This had a positive impact on my day-to-day as I would implement some of the recommendations for lowering my stress and found them to work.

The Watch 6 Classic does severely lack as a fitness tracker, though, and its inaccurate GPS makes it difficult to recommend to more active users. Not only would it take upwards of a minute to sync a GPS connection but its distance- and pace-tracking were off by significant margins. Those looking for a quality fitness tracker experience should instead opt for the Watch 5 Pro.

Design-wise, the Watch 6 Classic is a stylish smartwatch that I thoroughly enjoy wearing. Its big watch face might be too large for folks with smaller wrists but I liked how much data I could display on it. Its bright watch face makes it easy to quickly reference the screen or tell the time.

Overall, it looks, feels, and functions like a premium wearable and while it may not satisfy those looking for a reliable fitness tracker, it's one of the best smartwatches on the market. Its compatibility with a variety of the best Samsung Galaxy Watch bands is a nice feature, too.

Read our full review of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Classic.

Best budget: Samsung Galaxy Watch 4
Samsung’s Galaxy Watch 4 worn on the author’s wrist.

When we first reviewed the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4, we couldn't help but notice that it was the closest thing to an Apple Watch for Android users. A year later, that sentiment goes to the next generation Watch 5 Pro but the Watch 4 is still an impressive wearable — only now, it costs far less than when it was released. 

The release of the Galaxy Watch 4 was Samsung's first go with utilizing WearOS as the watch's operating system, as it decided to go away from the in-house interface, Tizen OS. The switch paid off in spades as WearOS pairs perfectly with the Watch 4. Navigation is fluid, notifications can be fully customized, and there's a wide selection of downloadable apps (thanks to Google Play Store access). 

Other highlights of the watch include its extensive health and fitness capability. It tracks activities, like running, cycling, and hiking, and we found the syncing and tracking capability to be on par with some of the best fitness trackers

We especially like its in-depth sleep tracking which monitors sleep patterns and can help turn bad habits into good ones. Its body measurement features are also unique as it analyzes your body weight, muscle mass, and water weight to give you an idea of your overall body composition. 

All of this equates to the Watch 4 being one of the best Android smartwatches. Of course, there are still a few drawbacks, most notable of which is its watered-down experience on anything other than a Samsung phone as some features, like the ECG app, aren't available. We don't see this as a total deal breaker but users of other phones, like the Google Pixel, should consider this before purchasing. 

At less than $170 via Amazon, the Watch 4 isn't just at its lowest price since it was released, but it's the cheapest we've seen a smartwatch of this quality. You're rarely able to find a premium full-featured wearable like this for $200. The fact that it's less than that easily makes it the best budget Android smartwatch on the market. 

Read our full review of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4.

Best battery life: Fitbit Inspire 3
A person wearing a Fitbit Inspire 3 on their wrist.

Fitbit's Inspire 3 is one of the brand's most basic wearables but it's still an impressive activity tracker for Android users (and one of the best Fitbits you can buy). It offers a range of health and fitness tracking insights, a no-frills interface, and advanced features like skin temperature sensing and in-depth sleep tracking. 

But what makes the Inspire 3 such a great tracker is how anyone from beginners to expert users will be satisfied using it. Navigating the watch is intuitive enough for first-time wearers while the wide variety of trackable activities and useful health metrics give it appeal to those familiar with fitness trackers. It's compatible with a range of the best Fitbit Inspire 3 bands, too, so users have even more ways to customize their wearable.

At less than $100, it's a hell of a bargain, too. What's especially great about its low price is that the Inspire 3 is the latest generation of the Inspire line, meaning it's the most current and updated version yet.

The watch does come with a few drawbacks, though. Absent is built-in GPS, as well as the ability to download additional apps. Although the lack of apps isn't a huge downside, not having GPS is, especially for hardcore athletes who want exact timing and tracking for activities. During our tests, we did find that when you sync GPS via a companion phone, the tracking worked well. But that means you do have to tote your phone along.

Those cons aside, the Inspire 3 is still a powerful activity tracker in a small, budget-friendly form factor. For Android users looking for something basic, trying out a fitness tracker for the first time, or who just want something straightforward and easy to use, the Inspire 3 is the best Android smartwatch on the market. 

Read our full review of the Fitbit Inspire 3.

Best for runners: Garmin Forerunner 745
The Garmin Forerunner 745 smartwatch on a person's wrist.

The Garmin Forerunner 745 isn't just the best running watch for Android users, it also happens to be one of the best running watches, period. It's that good. Garmin's made its name on manufacturing powerful sports wearables, and the 745 is the latest in a long line of triumphs from the brand. 

What makes the 745 so good is not just its accurate tracking capabilities and easy-to-navigate interface (but, those are excellent). What makes it stand out from the competition is its unique approach to workout recommendations and focus on rest and recovery, two vital aspects of an effective workout routine. 

For the workout recommendations, the watch requires a 10-day monitoring period to assess your day-to-day activity and performance. Once those 10 days are up, it adapts its recommendations to your specific activity needs. One day it might have you pump up the mileage and go for a several-mile long run while another may see that you need more rest and dial the day's workout down to a recovery jog. 

Whatever it recommends, it does so in lockstep with its rest and recovery insights. In other words, the watch isn't just going to run you into the ground but rather, it takes a thoughtful approach to giving your body the time to properly recover between strenuous workouts. 

The 745 feels like having a personal trainer right on your wrist with all these features active. Of course, you don't have to do the daily workouts but they do prove worthwhile for anyone stumped about what to do on a certain day, or those who want to take the guesswork out of how to train for a race or event. 

Other highlights of the 745 include a comfortable, lightweight design that won't weigh heavy on your wrist, even during long runs, as well as a large, colorful display. The big display does tend to look rather large on folks with smaller wrists, but it's especially useful in the middle of a run to easily see your training stats without having to squint or stop running. 

Then there's the battery life, which Garmin claims lasts up to six days on a single charge. We found this to be mostly true during our tests, as it would last both a little longer and a little shorter than that estimation depending on how heavily we used it each day. 

For consistent runners, the Garmin Forerunner 745 is the best Android smartwatch to buy. 

Read our full review of the Garmin Forerunner 745.

Best for outdoor adventures: Garmin Forerunner 935
A person's wrist shown wearing the Garmin Forerunner 935 smartwatch.

Like the Forerunner 745 above, the Forerunner 935 is one of Garmin's best wearables. And for the outdoorsy Android user, it's the best.

The 935 is compatible with a wide range of trackable outdoor activities such as hiking, trail running, skiing, and snowboarding, to name a few, and can even track your trips via its built-in GPS (which is a must-have for those venturing into the backcountry). It's also highly accurate, both in terms of tracking and GPS syncing.

Although the watch itself is on the medium to large end of the wearable spectrum, it's incredibly lightweight and comes with a comfortable rubber band that feels good against the skin. The watch's face features tempered, scratch-resistant glass, as well as a durable, stainless steel bezel. 

But where the watch truly shines is how Garmin's interface functions with the activities it tracks. The tracking screens show everything from heart rate and distance traveled, to training status, heart rate variability, and total training load. In other words, you have everything you'd ever need right there on your wrist. 

We did have one nitpick with the watch: its battery doesn't last much longer than a single day, especially if you're relying on GPS and heart rate tracking for long periods. This isn't an issue for those who return home each night but this could pose a problem for anyone out on a backpacking trip or who forgot their charger. 

Still, the Forerunner 935 is a full-featured watch that's the best Android smartwatch for outdoor enthusiasts. 

Read our full review of the Garmin Forerunner 935.

How we test Android smartwatches

To compile this guide, we compared the best Android smartwatches across a variety of categories including things like fit & comfort, features, battery life, ease of use, accuracy, and compatibility. Here's how each category factored into which watches made the guide:

Fit & comfort: Testing this was a straightforward assessment of how well the watch felt on-wrist while wearing it normally throughout the day, as well as during workouts. We also looked at how easy it was to dial in the right fit with whatever the clasp system was.

Features: Simply put, what are all the features native to a certain Android smartwatch? We looked at what kinds of apps were natively available right out of the box, as well as what was accessible via an app store like Google Play. We also assessed how well these features elevated the overall experience. 

Battery life: Battery life is one of the most important aspects of a smartwatch and can dictate which watch is best for a certain user. If a fitness-focused watch has a hard time getting through just one day on a single charge, then that watch won't be good for something constantly using GPS or the heart rate monitor. Charging a watch every day isn't a dealbreaker but it's useful to know what a watch offers and how it affects the overall experience. 

Ease of use: Smartwatches should ideally not have a steep learning curve, and should be easy to navigate right out of the box. Of course, not all operating systems are the same, so there will be some differences from watch to watch. If a wearable is hard to navigate, you're less likely to use it. 

Accuracy: Tracking accuracy can make or break a smartwatch, especially for folks who use it as a training tool. Some are inherently better than others but even small discrepancies in tracking capability can make a big impact. We tested this by running a mile with each watch and comparing the differences in time and distance. 

Compatibility: Testing compatibility for Android smartwatches consisted of using each watch with several Android smartphones. No single Android watch is fully compatible with every single Android phone, but some do function better on a competitor's device without much change to the overall experience. For instance, our top pick, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, functions best on a Samsung phone while the experience on something like the Google Pixel is watered-down.  

What to look for when shopping

Before purchasing a new Android smartwatch, it's important to consider how you plan on using it and which models fit your lifestyle best. Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping: 

Style: The best smartwatches for Android come in several styles suited to different users. There are fitness tracker-type wearables like the Sense 2 or Inspire 3 designed to function best during activities, and then there are watches like the Google Pixel that evoke a more traditional wristwatch design. Deciding which style best suits your lifestyle is a key factor when shopping.  

Battery life: Battery life estimates vary wildly among the best Android smartwatches as some, like the Google Pixel Watch, need to be recharged daily. Others, like the Fitbit Sense 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, boast multi-day battery life and are often better for active users who may be using the built-in GPS throughout the day or who travel often. 

Smart features: Although every smartwatch comes with smart features, some are smarter than others. Take the Fitbit Inspire 3, for example. This watch offers basic smartwatch capability including call, text, email, and app notifications but not much beyond that. Compared to the Google Pixel which offers in-depth smart features that allow users to interact with the notifications, the Inspire 3 is leagues lower.

Ecosystem: Each of the smartwatches in this guide shares the Android ecosystem as a foundation but they all have a secondary ecosystem to keep in mind. The Garmin Forerunners are compatible with the Garmin Connect App, the Sense 2 with Fitbit's app (and Fitbit Premium), and the Watch 5 Pro with Samsung Health. It's worth researching companion apps to see what you prefer. 

Display: The display native to an Android smartwatch can be as interactive as what's found on the Google Pixel Watch or as basic as what the Fitbit Inspire 3 offers. Your overall experience will change based on a watch's display, so it's important to understand what a watch offers and if that syncs with your preferred smartwatch experience.

FAQs

What's the best Android smartwatch?

This depends on your preference and how you intend to use the watch. Some Android smartwatches are better for fitness-focused users, like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro or Fitbit Sense 2.

For those looking for a true smartwatch experience, something like the Google Pixel Watch would fare better (though it does come at the expense of its fitness tracking capabilities as it's a poor activity tracker). 

It's important to understand how you intend to use the smartwatch to make the best purchasing decision.


Do all Android smartwatches work on any Android smartphone? 

Yes and no. While most of the best Android smartwatches are compatible with all models of Android smartphones, some deliver a different overall experience. 

For instance, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro functions more seamlessly on a Samsung smartphone than it does on something like a Google Pixel. Some app access is limited while the companion apps used to customize the watch differ. However, a watch like the Google Pixel Watch functions nearly similarly on the Google Pixel Phone as on a Samsung phone. 


Can you use an Apple Watch with an Android smartphone? 

No, the Apple Watch is only compatible with an iPhone running iOS. Unlike wearables from brands like Garmin or Fitbit, which work on both an iPhone and an Android phone, the Apple Watch only functions on an iOS device.

Similarly, the best Android smartwatches won't work on an iPhone and are only compatible with smartphones running the Android operating system. 


Do you need an Android smartphone to use these watches?

Yes. Although you don't technically need a smartphone to power up a smartwatch, you won't be able to unlock its full functionality without syncing it to a smartphone via Bluetooth. 

Without a phone, a smartwatch would only be able to tell the time and perform a few of its basic functions, like counting steps and how many calories you've burned. However, you'd have no way of accessing the amassed data without a device like a smartphone (or tablet). 


Can you use an iPhone with an Android smartwatch?

No. To get the full functionality out of an Android smartwatch, you'll need to use an Android smartphone. While nothing stops an iPhone user from wearing an Android smartwatch, they wouldn't be able to take advantage of its basic smartphone compatibility and would have an incredibly watered-down experience.


Do some Android smartwatches work better with certain Android devices?

The most common compatibility issue Android smartwatches encounter is when they're used with an Android device from a different brand. For instance, Samsung's Galaxy Watches lose some functionality with used with a Google Pixel Phone. The same goes for using a Google Pixel Watch with a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, though it's not as drastic. 

While you can still use those watches with phones from different brands, it's best to use the same Android device brand with whatever Android smartwatch you buy.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Can bamboo replace paper and plastic? And should it?

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With bamboo-based products on the rise, we wanted to see how they compared to their plastic and paper counterparts. We went to Taiwan and China for a behind-the-scenes look at how bamboo is turned into cups, lunchboxes, toilet paper, and cutlery — and figured out which of these products have the biggest impact on our environment.


For more on Lastic, visit www.lastico.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Tesla sends some laid-off workers new severance offers after Elon Musk said some were 'incorrectly low' the first time

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A red Tesla outside a Tesla showroom.
Tesla gave some workers a new severance offer with additional pay and health insurance.
  • Tesla sent some laid-off staff a new severance offer with additional pay and health insurance.
  • The initial severance offer included two months pay and health insurance coverage, two workers said.
  • Elon Musk has said he plants to cut more than 10% of Tesla's workforce.

Some laid-off Tesla workers received new severance offers that included more money and longer coverage of benefits on Thursday night.

It continues a tumultuous week for Tesla workers, some of whom missed the layoff email before heading to work on Monday and only realized they were out of a job after a badge scan from security. Others told Business Insider they didn't receive any severance information within the 48 hours Tesla had said to expect it.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk appeared to acknowledge the company had initially sent out faulty severance packages. On Wednesday, Musk sent a companywide email to current Tesla employees saying that "some severance packages are incorrectly low" and the company was working to correct the mistake.

Unlike early severance offers that were sent to some workers on Tuesday night, the new packages appear to vary between employees.

Two workers who'd initially received a severance offer for two months pay and two months of health insurance coverage were notified on Wednesday that their separation agreement had been canceled by Tesla and that an updated agreement would follow, the workers told BI. Within a few hours, the workers received severance offers with slightly higher pay, those workers said.

One worker said they got an extra month of COBRA health insurance coverage and an extra few thousand dollars thrown into their severance pay. Another worker said they were offered three months' worth of severance pay and three months of paid COBRA coverage. Both workers were told they would no longer be employed by Tesla as of April 19.

Meanwhile, a third worker was told in their initial severance offer that was sent out on Wednesday night that they would be employed through June 14 in compliance with the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, according to the document which was viewed by BI. The act requires companies that have more than 100 workers are required to provide 60 days of notice before a large-scale layoff. In addition to the 60-day notice period, the employee was told they'd receive two months of severance and two months of COBRA coverage that would be paid out after their employment ended in June.

Sixty days' pay is the minimum that companies with more than 100 employees must give laid-off workers if there's no 60-day notice period before mass job cuts, according to the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act. If an employer lays off an employee but allows them to maintain their employment status for 60 days it can also fulfill the WARN notice period.

The laid of employees are part of a mass layoff at Tesla. Musk told staff the electric-car maker was slashing more than 10% of its workforce on Sunday night, according to an internal memo viewed by BI.

A spokesperson for Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Do you work for Tesla or have a tip? Reach out to the reporter via a non-work email and device at gkay@businessinsider.com

Read the original article on Business Insider

The most famous local dish from every state

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Nashville hot chicken
Tennessee is famous for Nashville hot chicken.
  • Every state has its own iconic dish, whether it was invented or popularized there.
  • Maine and Connecticut are both famous for their lobster rolls, though they prepare them differently.
  • Tennessee is famous for its spicy Nashville hot chicken.

Every state has its own iconic dish.

Business Insider looked at the most famous local dishes across the country, from Illinois' famous deep-dish pizza to the Colorado-born "Fool's Gold" sandwich.

Some famous foods, like Nashville hot chicken, have become synonymous with their state and have even become the signature food of famous institutions, as hot chicken has at Hattie B's.

Local foods can also make an impact far beyond their origin states, sparking nationwide trends — KFC and Dave's Hot Chicken have added iterations of Tennessee's most famous local dish to their menus over the years. In fact, mentions of Nashville hot chicken on menus have increased 65.7% over the last five years, CNBC reported in November 2023, citing data from food-service consulting company Technomic.

Here's the most famous local dish from every state.

ALABAMA: Chicken with white barbecue sauce
chicken with white bbq sauce on a plate
Chicken with white barbecue sauce.

Alabama's famous white barbecue sauce, which is made with mayonnaise, vinegar, salt, and ground black pepper, is described as both creamy and tangy.

The sauce, which was invented in the 1920s by Bob Gibson of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur, Alabama, often comes served on a sandwich, or with grilled or fried chicken.

ALASKA: Smoked salmon
a person wearing gloves handling slices of smoked salmon
Smoked salmon.

Alaska is famous for its salmon, though whether locals prefer it smoked, grilled, or pan-seared is up for debate. For a classic Alaskan dish, pairing salmon with vegetables or a bagel and cream cheese are both good ways to enjoy the state's most famous fish.

ARIZONA: Chimichangas
Chimichangas on a plate with rice and sauce
Chimichangas.

You might not know that chimichangas were invented in Arizona.

As Tucson Foodie reported, two different restaurants in Tucson claim they originated the dish, which features a large meat burrito filled with vegetables and spices, deep-fried, and topped with cheese and sauce.

ARKANSAS: Fried pickles
Fried pickle chips in a white bowl
Fried pickles.

Fans of fried pickles have Arkansas to thank for the iconic snack. The first fried dill pickles ever sold anywhere first appeared on the menu of the Duchess Drive-In in Atkins, Arkansas, in the summer of 1963, according to Encyclopedia of Arkansas.

CALIFORNIA: Avocado toast
a person cutting avocado toast with egg with a fork and knife
Avocado toast.

California is famous for its avocados, so it should come as no surprise that avocado toast is one of the most popular and famous local dishes in the Golden State. The San Francisco Chronicle reported that California residents have been making avocado toast for more than 130 years.

An issue of the Daily Alta California from 1885 lists a recipe that suggests spreading avocado "on slices of bread, and season with salt and pepper."

COLORADO: The "Fool's Gold" sandwich
Fool's Gold peanut butter sandwiches on a plate
"Fool's Gold" sandwiches.

The first "Fool's Gold" sandwich, a sourdough loaf stuffed with peanut butter, blueberry jam, and a pound of bacon, was invented by the now-closed Colorado Mine Company, a restaurant in Denver.

The sandwich shot to fame after Elvis Presley tried the sandwich and loved it so much, he took his private jet to Denver and back in one night just to order one.

CONNECTICUT: Warm lobster rolls
lobster roll on a plate with melted butter on the side
Lobster roll.

Culture Trip reported that the first documented lobster roll was served at a Milford, Connecticut, restaurant named Perry's in 1929.

However, while you might be familiar with New-England style or Maine lobster rolls, the folks down in Connecticut do things a little differently. In a Connecticut-style lobster roll, a split bun is stuffed with warm lobster meat and just a drizzle of melted butter.

DELAWARE: Peach pie
Peach pie on a blue and white plate with a fork
Peach pie.

Delaware's official state dessert is peach pie, and peaches are an integral part of the state's agricultural industry.

According to the Delaware government website, "peach farming is an important part of Delaware's agricultural heritage, as the peach was introduced to Delaware in Colonial times and expanded as an industry in the nineteenth century."

At its peak in 1875, the state shipped six million baskets of peaches to market.

FLORIDA: Cuban sandwiches
Cuban sandwich halves stacked on top of each other on a white plate
Cuban sandwiches.

While these sandwiches can, of course, be traced back to Cuba, what we know now as a "Cuban sandwich" is largely thanks to Cuban immigrants in Tampa, Florida. According to Thrillist, the sandwiches made in Cuba and the United States had a few key differences in ingredients.

The Florida version, which used salami imported from Italy in some cases, became known as a "Cuban sandwich."

GEORGIA: Brunswick stew
Brunswick stew in a pot
Brunswick stew.

Both Brunswick County, Virginia, and Brunswick, Georgia, lay claim to inventing Brunswick stew.

However, a 25-gallon iron pot on top of a town monument in Brunswick, Georgia, reads that the very first Brunswick stew was cooked inside it way back in 1898.

HAWAII: Kālua pork
Kalua pork nachos on a white plate with salsa and sour cream on the side
Kālua pork nachos.

Kālua pork, which is smoked, shredded pork shoulder sometimes mixed with cabbage, is one of Hawaii's most famous local dishes — in Hawaiian, kālua translates as "to cook in an underground oven."

IDAHO: Finger steaks
fried beef finger stakes on a white plate with sauce
Finger steaks.

Many have traced the origin of finger steaks — fried pieces of beef — back to Milo's Torch Lounge in Boise. According to one local barbecue blog, the story goes that chef Milo Bybee invented the dish in 1957 as a way to make use of the restaurant's leftover tenderloin.

ILLINOIS: Deep-dish pizza
Giordanos chicago deep dish pizza with a serving spatula
Deep-dish pizza.

While you might assume that all pizza originates in Italy, deep-dish pizza is actually American.

The BBC reported that restaurant owners Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo introduced their creation, an Italian-American pizza they called deep-dish, at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago's Near North Side neighborhood in 1943.

INDIANA: Pork tenderloin sandwiches
pork tenderloin sandwich with tomato and lettuce on a white plate
A Hoosier sandwich.

Pork tenderloin sandwiches, also called "Hoosier sandwiches," can be traced back to Nick Freienstein, a Huntington, Indiana, native-born to German parents. Eater reported the dish was originally inspired by wiener schnitzel, a Viennese-style veal dish that is breaded and pan-fried.

In 1904, Freienstein began selling sandwiches and burgers out of a food cart. While veal was hard to come by in his hometown, pork was readily available. After he added pickles and onions to his fried pork tenderloin sandwich, Freienstein's cart took off. He is credited with creating the first "Hoosier sandwich."

IOWA: Fried catfish
fried catfish and fries in red baskets
Fried catfish and fries.

While fried catfish is a popular dish throughout the South, Iowans are also fond of the dish.

KANSAS: Loose meat sandwiches
loose meat sandwich with pickles and chips
Loose meat sandwiches.

A cross between a sloppy joe and a cheeseburger, loose meat sandwiches are a favorite among Kansas locals. The Nu-Way Cafe, a Wichita-based chain of restaurants, is famous for its loose meat sandwiches.

In other parts of the county, they are known as tavern sandwiches or Maid-Rites, named after the Iowa chain.

KENTUCKY: Beer cheese
Beer cheese dip in a sauce pan
Beer cheese dip.

According to local lore, beer cheese was invented by Chef Joe Allman for his cousin Johnnie, the owner of the Driftwood Inn near Winchester, Kentucky. According to the Downtown Winchester Beer Cheese Festival, the dish was originally created by Allman to entice customers to order more beer with their meals.

LOUISIANA: Gumbo
Gumbo in a large pot on a stove
Chicken and sausage gumbo.

Gumbo, a traditional stew consisting primarily of a strong-flavored stock, meat or shellfish, a thickener, and vegetables, is the official state cuisine of Louisiana.

Its roots have been traced back to the late 1800s, and many food historians believe it to have evolved from ki ngombo, an okra-based stew brought over by slaves to colonial Louisiana. 

MAINE: Lobster rolls
lobster roll in red basket with waterfront harbor in the background
A lobster roll with coleslaw and french fries on a waterfront harbor in Maine.

Maine is famous for its lobster rolls, largely due to the fact lobster is one of Maine's most profitable exports.

However, while the first lobster roll can be traced back to Connecticut, Maine-style lobster rolls often consist of cold lobster meat, rather than warm meat, dressed with mayonnaise and served in a toasted bun.

MARYLAND: Crab cakes
Crab cakes with lemon wedges on a white plate
Crab cakes.

Crab cakes can likely be traced back to Native American cooking in the Chesapeake Bay region of the United States.

However, the first official recipe for crab cakes appeared in a cookbook written by Crosby Gaige in the 1930s, under the name "Maryland Crab Cakes," Baltimore Magazine reported.

MASSACHUSETTS: New England-style clam chowder
clam chowder in a bread bowl
Clam chowder in a bread bowl from Quincy Market in Boston, Massachusetts.

Clam chowder has roots all over the Northeast but, according to What's Cooking America, New England Style clam chowder was being served in Boston at Ye Olde Union Oyster House by 1836.

MICHIGAN: Wet burritos
wet burrito covered in sour cream and salsa on a plate
A wet burrito.

Wet burritos, which come covered in red chile sauce and tons of cheese, reportedly originate from the Beltline Bar in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

MINNESOTA: Corn dogs
corn dogs on a plate with bite taken out of one of them
Corn dogs.

While some say corn dogs, then called "corny dogs," were introduced at the State Fair of Texas between 1938 and 1942, Pronto Pup vendors at the Minnesota State Fair claim to have invented the first breaded-and-fried hot dog in 1942, MPR News reported.

MISSISSIPPI: Mississippi mud pie
Mississippi mud pie with chocolate crust on a white plate
Mississippi mud pie.

According to Eater, Mississippi mud pie, a dessert made with pudding, cake, biscuits, ice cream, whipped cream, marshmallows, and some kind of liqueur like Kahlua or amaretto, was reportedly invented in the Vicksburg-Natchez area outside Jackson, Mississippi.

MISSOURI: Barbecue
Joe's Kansas City Barbecue ribs, pickles, and sides on a tray
Barbecue.

Henry Perry is known as the "father of Kansas City barbecue" — he began selling slow-smoked meats wrapped in newspaper for 25 cents in the Garment District of Kansas City, across the border in Missouri, in the early 1900s, as reported by Biz Journals.

He later opened Kansas City's first official barbecue restaurant in an old trolley barn. Perry loved barbecue so much that, on his death certificate, his occupation was listed as "barbecue man."

MONTANA: Meat pie
meat pie cut open with filling showing, chips, and peas
Meat pie.

While meat pies originate from New Zealand and parts of Europe, they're also really popular in Montana.

Oftentimes called "pasties," the meat pies grew in popularity due to the large population of Irish miners living in Butte, Montana, who found them easy to transport to work each day.

NEBRASKA: Reuben sandwiches
reuben sandwich in newspaper with pickle and pepper
Reuben sandwich.

The classic Reuben sandwich, made with corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing, and served on rye bread, was supposedly invented by an Omaha, Nebraska, grocer in 1925, according to History Nebraska

NEVADA: Shrimp cocktail
Shrimp cocktail in a white bowl with cocktail sauce and ice
Shrimp cocktail.

Shrimp cocktail may not have been invented in Nevada, or even the United States, but Las Vegas residents have certainly claimed the appetizer as their own.

According to Golden Gate Hotel & Casino, the casino introduced Las Vegas to its famous, world-recognized, 50-cent shrimp cocktail in 1959. Ever since, visitors have enjoyed partaking in the city's signature dish.

NEW HAMPSHIRE: Pancakes with maple syrup
pancakes being drizzled with maple syrup
Pancakes with maple syrup.

While Vermont produces more maple syrup than any other state, New Hampshire is also known for its syrup production. True Granite State natives are known to douse their pancakes in 100% New Hampshire syrup.

NEW JERSEY: Disco fries
disco fries with sauce onions and toppings
Disco fries.

Disco fries, which are french fries smothered in gravy, mozzarella, and other toppings, originate from the Garden State.

Local legend has it that the late-night dish got its name from the hoards of people pouring into New Jersey diners after a long night of dancing, in search of the perfect snack.

NEW MEXICO: Green chile cheeseburgers
burger topped with bacon, cheese, and green chile
Green chile cheeseburger.

Green chiles are the state's signature vegetable, so it comes as no surprise that New Mexico natives would want to add the ingredient to their burgers.

NEW YORK: Pizza
New york pizza being served in a restaurant
New York pizza.

New York is undeniably famous for its pizza, from cheap and cheerful $1 slices to more gourmet versions. New York City is also home to the nation's first pizzeria, Lombardi's, which opened in Little Italy in 1905. 

NORTH CAROLINA: Krispy Kreme donuts
krispy kreme donuts and a paper bag
Krispy Kreme donuts.

Krispy Kreme began operating in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on July 13, 1937. At the time, the owner Vernon Rudolph was only selling his donuts to local grocery stores.

However, after people passing by the bakery asked about the heavenly scent, he cut a hole in an outside wall and began selling glazed donuts to people on the sidewalk.

NORTH DAKOTA: Walleye
fried walleye with fries and tartar sauce on a plate
Fried walleye.

North Dakota is famous for its walleye, and the state is known not only for selling the fried fish on its own but also in sandwiches.

OHIO: Cincinnati-style chili
Cincinnati-style chili with spaghetti cheese and onions
Cincinnati-style chili.

According to What's Cooking America, Cincinnati prides itself on being the chili capital of the United States with more than 180 chili parlors. Thinner in consistency and commonly served over pasta, the dish is slightly different from traditional chili.

Cincinnati-style chili also often comes topped with chopped onions, shredded cheese, beans, and even crushed oyster crackers. 

OKLAHOMA: Chicken-fried steak
Chicken-fried steak with mashed potatoes, brussel sprouts and white gravy on top
Chicken-fried steak.

Chicken-fried steak often comes served with mashed potato and gravy and is popular all over the South.

However, one state loves the dish so much, they decided to make it official. In 1988, Oklahomans named chicken-fried steak as one of their state meals.

OREGON: Clams
pasta with clams seafood
Clams.

Clamming is a popular activity in Oregon, where shellfish is abundant. So, it makes perfect sense that one of the most famous dishes from Oregon would involve clams.

PENNSYLVANIA: Philly cheesesteak
philly cheesesteak sandwich on a roll
Philly cheesesteak.

The state's most famous food by far is the classic Philly cheesesteak, which is believed to have been invented by a hot dog vendor in 1930, according to Visit Philadelphia

The sandwich contains thinly cut steak handsomely topped with cheese on a roll, plus sautéed onions, peppers, mushrooms, mayonnaise, hot sauce, salt, pepper, or ketchup.

RHODE ISLAND: Stuffed clams
baked stuffed clams on a wood background
Stuffed clams.

Also called stuffed Quahogs or stuffies, stuffed clams are the unofficial dish of Rhode Island.

To make them, you'll just need to mix chopped clam meat, breadcrumbs, herbs, diced onion, bell pepper, and celery together, then bake the mixture inside a clamshell.

SOUTH CAROLINA: Shrimp and grits
Shrimp and grits on a white plate
Shrimp and grits.

While the exact origin of shrimp and grits is largely unknown, it's thought that the dish might have stemmed from Charleston, South Carolina, or the larger Carolina region.

Today, shrimp and grits is a favorite dish in South Carolina.

SOUTH DAKOTA: Navajo tacos
Navajo tacos with beans lettuce tomato and cheese
Navajo tacos.

Instead of traditional taco shells, those in South Dakota use frybread, which is flattened dough cooked in hot oil until puffy and crispy, to make Navajo tacos.

However, while the dish is delicious, it also has a controversial history. Native Americans living in South Dakota invented the dish, but it was less about making a tasty meal and more about survival. 

According to Argus Leader and Lisa Ironcloud, who works with food sovereignty programs, frybread was invented because Native Americans could make it using rationed ingredients like yeast and because it "filled their stomachs."

TENNESSEE: Nashville hot chicken
Nashville hot chicken with pickles and coleslaw on white bread
Nashville hot chicken.

Nashville hot chicken, which is famous for being extremely spicy, also has quite a spicy history. Nashville hot chicken was originally invented when Thornton Prince, the owner of Prince's Hot Chicken where legend says hot chicken was first created, came home to find his lover upset.

To get revenge, she served him some chicken covered in some extra-hot spices. However, Prince liked the dish so much he decided to open a restaurant and serve a version of the dish to local people in Nashville.

TEXAS: Barbecue
a person flipping barbecue ribs on a grill with smoke coming off it
A person cooking barbecue.

Texas is practically synonymous with barbecue. However, while other states have their own way of barbecuing, Texas-style barbecue focuses on beef as the main course.

UTAH: Pastrami burgers
pastrami burger with cheese on bun
Pastrami burgers.

The New York Times reported that pastrami burgers were popularized by Crown Burgers in Salt Lake City, and are still one of the city's most famous foods. The burgers come topped with a Thousand Island-style sauce as well as tomatoes, shaved lettuce, and onions, but can also come served with cheese or other toppings.

VERMONT: Vermont corn chowder
corn chowder in a bowl with a spoon
Vermont corn chowder.

Vermont corn chowder is a state-favorite dish made with a milk-based broth, corn, and other vegetables like onions, potatoes, and cabbage, thickened with flour or Vermont cheddar cheese. Bacon is also commonly added to the dish.

VIRGINIA: Oysters
a man using a knife shucking oyster
A man shucking an oyster.

Virginia's government website claims that "Virginia is for Oyster Lovers," and there's a reason. Not only is Virginia home to multiple oyster festivals, but Virginia oysters can be harvested in eight different regions of the state.

WASHINGTON: Fish and chips
fried fish and chips
Fish and chips.

While fish and chips are often thought of as a quintessentially British dish, the state of Washington is famous for its flaky, fried fish and chips.

WEST VIRGINIA: Biscuits and gravy
biscuits with sausage gravy
Biscuits and gravy.

The roots of biscuits and gravy can be traced back to the Southern Appalachian region of the United States in the late 1800s. The Washington Post reported that the earliest version of this Southern food used sausage gravy, which was also called "sawmill gravy" at the time.

Historians believe that the food was hearty enough to power sawmill workers through their long days lifting heavy logs, and also thick and flavorful enough to make biscuits of that era "more palatable."

WISCONSIN: Fried cheese curds
Fried cheese curds with tomato sauce
Fried cheese curds.

Fried cheese curds are a favorite dish in Wisconsin, the state famous for its cheese and dairy products. According to What's Cooking America, cheese factories in the state have to make cheese curds daily to meet the high demand for the product.

WYOMING: Turducken
thanksgiving turkey on a table with people in the background
Turducken.

Turducken, an over-the-top hybrid food that consists of a chicken stuffed inside a duck that's then stuffed inside a turkey all separated by layers of stuffing, was reportedly invented by Louisiana chef Paul Prudhomme in a lodge in Wyoming, The New York Times reported.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I spent $2,000 for 7 nights in a 179-square-foot room on one of the world's largest cruise ships. Take a look inside my cabin.

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The author stays in a stateroom on the largest cruise ship in the world
The author spent seven nights on board Wonder of the Seas, one of the world's largest cruise ships.
  • I booked a stateroom on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas, one of the biggest cruise ships.
  • For $2,000 a week, the 179-square-foot cabin had a private bathroom, a king-size bed, and a view.
  • I thought I'd feel cramped in the room, but it had everything I needed and left no space unused.

In April 2022, I cruised on board Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas. At the time, it was the largest cruise ship in the world, but the title has since been replaced by Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas.

During my voyage, the ship sailed to Roatán, Honduras; Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico; and Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas.

For $2,000, I spent seven nights in an ocean-view stateroom on deck eight. The cruise was on sale, as it was originally priced at $3,000. Take a look inside the 179-square-foot space.

My room was a mid-tier cabin at the front of deck eight.
An arrow points to the front of the Wonder of the Seas.
Wonder of the Seas in Costa Maya, Mexico.

I booked a mid-tier room — a step above interior staterooms, which have no window. It's a category below staterooms with a balcony, and two steps below a suite.

My cabin was on the same deck as Central Park, an outdoor space with 20,000 plants.
Inside a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
The author in Central Park on board Wonder of the Seas.

I thought it was the most relaxing area on the ship, so I enjoyed being close by.

When I stepped inside my stateroom, I was surprised at how big it felt.
Inside a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
Inside the author's stateroom.

Right away, I thought the cabin made great use of a small space.

To operate most of the electricity in the room, I had to insert my room key into a slot on the wall.
Inside a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
Electricity in use inside the author's stateroom.

I appreciated the energy-saving system.

On one side of the room, I had a mirror and a desk with several outlets to charge electronics with USB, American, and European ports.
Inside a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
The desk inside the author's stateroom.

I thought the desk was useful for eating, as well as storing daily flyers about the day's events.

Next to the desk, a set of drawers included a cabinet with a minifridge inside.
The mini fridge in a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
Drawers and a minifridge inside the author's stateroom.

The desk drawers were mostly empty aside from a hair dryer, which I didn't end up using.

Across from the desk, I had a couch positioned in between two closets.
Inside a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
The couch inside the author's stateroom.

Inside each closet, I found a rack of hangers, shelving, and a small safe. I thought it was plenty of space for a weeklong journey

Next to the couch and desk area, a small bathroom used clever storage hacks, like placing the trash can and toilet paper under the counter.
bathroom in stateroom on world's largest cruise ship
The bathroom inside the author's stateroom.

In the bathroom, there were two glasses, a bar of soap, and a two-in-one hair and body wash.

At the top of the shower, a pullout clothing line was useful for drying my bathing suits.

Each night, my stateroom attendant replenished towels and brought flyers and schedules for the next day.
A towel folded like a monkey in the author's room
A towel folded like a monkey inside the author's stateroom.

Sometimes, the towels were folded creatively to look like animals.

I noticed that my king-size bed at the back of the room was actually two twin beds pushed together.
Inside a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
A wide view of the room.

All Royal Caribbean cabins come with this configuration, according to its website, so they may be separated for additional guests. I often woke up in the crevice.

A large flat-screen TV was mounted across from the bed with storage hooks below.
Inside a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
A TV inside the author's stateroom.

Skinny nightstands on either side of the bed held lamps, charging ports, and a room phone on one side.

Because I booked an ocean-view room, I was able to look out over the front of the ship from a window above my bed.
Inside a stateroom on the world's largest cruise ship
A view of the bed inside the author's stateroom.

The window was equipped with an electronic shade that could be opened during the day for grand views and closed when I was ready to sleep.

While I thought the room might have been a tight space for a couple with a lot of luggage or a family, it was just right for me.
The author, wearing a T-shirt, shorts, and a sun hat, sits on an unmade bed with white sheets in a stateroom.
The author on the bed in her stateroom.

And watching the sun rise over the Caribbean Sea from the comfort of my room was the best part.

Read the original article on Business Insider

The 7 best things to stream this weekend, from a Netflix reality show to one of the year's best horror movies

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A television with an interference screen
  • Check out new shows like "Under the Bridge" this weekend.
  • Movies like "Late Night With the Devil" are newly streaming.
  • There's also a new season of "The Circle" for reality fans.

Two of the best horror movies in recent memory are both available on streamers this weekend.

Alex Garland's "Men," which was released in theaters in 2022, is now on Max. "Late Night With the Devil," in theaters earlier this year, is available on Shudder.

True crime fans also have a few options available. There's "The Jinx: Part 2," a continued look at the story of convicted killer Robert Durst, and "Under the Bridge," a fictionalized drama about a real-life murder case.

And if none of those appeal to you, there's also plenty of lighter fare to enjoy instead.

Here's a complete rundown of all the best movies, shows, and documentaries to stream this weekend, broken down by what kind of entertainment you're looking for.

The new season of 'The Circle' will scratch your reality competition show itch
Contestant Stephanie "Steffi" Hill in season six episode four of "The Circle"
Contestant Stephanie "Steffi" Hill in season six episode four of "The Circle."

"The Circle" is back for its sixth season and this time, it has an AI twist that throws contestants off guard. The first four episodes are available now.

Streaming on: Netflix

True crime fans should tune into 'The Jinx Part 2'
Robert Durst in press footage featured in "The Jinx Part 2"
Robert Durst in press footage featured in "The Jinx Part 2."

Back in 2015, "The Jinx" gave us one of the most infamous hot mic moments of all time when its subject, suspected killer Robert Durst, inadvertently confessed to multiple murders while talking to himself during a bathroom break.

Nearly a decade later, filmmaker Andrew Jarecki found more story to tell in "Part 2," which includes new interviews and prison calls with Durst before his death in 2022.

Streaming on: Max

For a fictionalized take on a real murder case, try 'Under the Bridge'
Lily Gladstone wears a police uniform and cap in an image from the Hulu series "Under the Bridge."
Lily Gladstone as Cam in Hulu's "Under the Bridge."

Oscar nominee Lily Gladstone stars as a police officer in this new drama about Reena Virk, a 14-year-old who was beaten and killed by a group of fellow teenagers. "Under the Bridge" is based on the nonfiction book of the same name by Rebecca Godfrey, which details the 1997 true story. Riley Keough costars as Godfrey.

Streaming on: Hulu

Comedy lovers can watch 'Conan O’Brien Must Go'
Conan O'Brien in "Conan O'Brien Must Go"
Conan O'Brien in "Conan O'Brien Must Go."

Former late-night host Conan O'Brien has a new show out. The Max original travel series based on his podcast "Conan O'Brien Needs a Fan" sees the comedian traveling around the world and surprising his fans.

Streaming on: Max

In the mood for a horror movie? Stream 'Men'...
Jessie Buckley as Harper in "Men"
Jessie Buckley as Harper in "Men."

"Men" was polarizing when it was released in 2022, but the eerie, unsettling horror flick is worth a watch if you can handle disturbing stuff.

Or if you just saw Alex Garland's "Civil War" and simply want more Garland, that's also a good reason to check this out (though be forewarned, the only real similarity between the two films is how inscrutable they both are).

Streaming on: Max

...or 'Late Night With the Devil'
Late Night with the Devil
David Dastmalchian stars in "Late Night With the Devil."

"Late Night With the Devil" caught flak for its use of AI imagery, which is a shame because it detracted from the fact that it's one of the most entertaining and unique horror movies in years.

David Dastmalchian gives a perfect performance as a floundering late-night host mourning his dead wife and trying to save his show by any means possible — including, but not limited to, hosting a demon-possessed child.

Streaming on: Shudder or AMC+

For a mid-aughts delight, check out a full slate of vintage Bravo reality shows, like 'NYC Prep'
'NYC Prep' cast
The "NYC Prep" cast consisted of high schoolers.

"NYC Prep," Bravo's controversial attempt to cash in on the "Gossip Girl" craze in 2009, almost seems like a fever dream instead of an actual reality show that once aired on television featuring real high schoolers. But alas, it was real, and now it's available to stream.

So are a number of the network's other long-gone reality shows, like "Real Housewives of Atlanta" star Kim Zolciak's spinoff "Don't Be Tardy," "Shahs of Sunset," and "Tabatha's Salon Takeover," which followed "Shear Genius" contestant Tabatha Coffey.

Streaming on: Peacock

Read the original article on Business Insider

China may be shaking out of its slump, and its economy could grow 5% this year after a surprising first-quarter performance, BofA says

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SHANGHAI, CHINA - FEBRUARY 24: A woman crosses a pedestrian crossing in wet weather in the Shanghai's financial district (Lujiazui) on February 24, 2018 in Shanghai, China.
SHANGHAI, CHINA - FEBRUARY 24: A woman crosses a pedestrian crossing in wet weather in the Shanghai's financial district (Lujiazui) on February 24, 2018 in Shanghai, China.
  • Bank of America upgraded is forecast for China's 2024 GDP growth to 5.0% after a strong first quarter. 
  • China's breakout from its economic slump may also mean less government support ahead, BofA said.
  • BofA doesn't expect a "a full-blown growth rebound" as real estate woes and weak demand are still a problem. 

Bank of America boosted its forecast for China's economic growth in 2024 on the heels of a surprisingly strong first-quarter performance from the world's second-largest economy.

The bank raised its outlook for full-year GDP growth to 5.0% from 4.8% and raised its 2025 forecast to 4.7% from 4.6%. The upward revision comes after China saw 5.3% growth in the first quarter thanks to the county's infrastructure and manufacturing investments, propelling it closer to Beijing's  5% GDP target, BofA analysts led by Helen Qiao wrote on Friday. 

On the investment front, BofA said the FAI index – a key indicator of capital expenditures on fixed assets — confirmed that the investment strength seen in the first two months of 2024 wasn't just another "head fake."

A 9.9% surge in the manufacturing sector and an 8.8% rise in infrastructure drove year-to-date FAI growth to 4.5% year-over-year, despite a 9.5% decline in property investment.

"This is particularly meaningful, as investment usually leads the business cycle in China because this is the one area that tends to benefit from policy support first," the analysts said. 

Still, BofA doesn't expect "a full-blown growth rebound" as China is still in the throes of a real estate crisis and dealing with consumer demand issues.

"The caveat is that other activity data including retail sales and industrial production still points to tepid domestic demand," the analysts said, adding that March's industrial production and retail sales figures fell short of expectations. 

"Bottom-up channel checks and indicators, such as cement production and shipment, also seem to contrast with the strong top-down infrastructure growth." 

With a robust first quarter dataset in hand, policymakers may be less inclined to intensify easing measures, dashing hopes for imminent policy support, according to the bank. The analysts wrote that they anticipate a gradual growth deceleration through the rest of 2024 as policy support wanes.

Apart from the potential for waning government aid, a worsening property sector that's eroding buyer confidence, and a substantial drop in Chinese exports amid geopolitical tensions add downside risks to China's growth prospects, BofA said. 

Read the original article on Business Insider

I tried store-brand peanut butter from Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Costco, and Wegmans. My kids couldn't get enough of the winner.

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Jars of peanut butter on a white-marble counter. There is a jar of Trader Joe's peanut butter, a two-pack of Kirkland Signature peanut butter, a jar of Wegmans peanut butter, and a jar of 365 peanut butter
I tried four brands of peanut butter from Trader Joe's, Costco, Wegmans, and Whole Foods.
  • My family tried peanut butter from four different grocery stores and ranked them from worst to best.
  • I thought the 365 brand was oddly greasy and too messy to spread.
  • The Kirkland Signature organic creamy peanut butter had a great flavor, and my kids loved it.

My family goes through a lot of peanut butter — my kids, ages 6 and 3, routinely eat the spread in sandwiches and snacks.

There are tons of options out there since the peanut-butter industry is worth billions, and the average American is said to eat multiple pounds of the stuff a year.

Although big-name peanut butter brands are great, I wondered if I might be missing out on supermarket-brand versions, which are often a decent value.

So, I bought creamy peanut butter from Whole Foods, Trader Joe's, Wegmans, and Costco and tried each with an apple slice and a cracker.

Here's how I'd rank each spread, from worst to best.

I started my comparison with the 365 unsweetened creamy peanut butter from Whole Foods.
A jar of peanut butter with a white label with illustrations of peanuts and leaves  with a red lid
I could see peanut grain through the 365-brand jar.

When I opened the jar of peanut butter from Whole Foods, I immediately noticed there was a ton of oil settled at the top. Although this was the case with almost all the peanut-butter options I tried, the 365 brand seemed to have the most.

I stirred the oil in as best as possible, but the entire jar was still liquidy, with little coagulated lumps of peanut grain mixed in.

In hindsight, this peanut butter also looked a bit odd in its container. I could see that dark peanut matter had settled in layers and wasn't uniformly spread throughout the jar.

I wasn't a fan of the 365 peanut butter.
A jar of peanut butter with a white label and red lid next to a white plate of crackers and apple slices. A slightly chunky-looking peanut butter is spread on one cracker
I couldn't get behind the texture of the 365 peanut butter.

This was the first peanut butter I've ever had that I'd call "greasy." It was even too messy for my 6-year-old, who had difficulty spreading it on crackers.

It tasted like an average peanut butter, but its texture threw me off. Whole Foods also stocks other brands of peanut butter, so I'd try one of those before I'd buy this again.

Trader Joe’s creamy salted peanut butter was made with a unique ingredient.
A jar of peanut butter with an orange label depicting illustrations of peanuts with a white lid
Trader Joe's creamy salted peanut butter was made with unblanched nuts.

My local Trader Joe's had various peanut-butter options, but I chose the most basic salted, creamy version.

This spread was made with unblanched nuts, which means the peanut skins were left on during processing. It had a darker hue than the other brands of peanut butter I tried, which was appealing to me.

I thought Trader Joe's peanut butter was a little too salty.
A jar of peanut butter with an orange label and white lid sits next to a plate of apple slices and crackers. Creamy-looking peanut butter is spread on one apple slice
I wished Trader Joe's peanut butter was less salty.

The oil on top of this peanut butter mixed in easily and transformed the spread into a rich, velvety mixture.

It had a good flavor but was a little too salty for me. My kids didn't seem to mind the taste, though they were much more enthusiastic about the winning option.

I'd probably buy it again if I was at Trader Joe's and needed peanut butter.

Wegmans' creamy peanut butter was the most convenient option because it didn't need to be stirred.
A jar of peanut butter with a bright-orange and red label with a red lid
Wegmans' creamy peanut butter was mess-free.

I was a little overwhelmed by Wegmans' selection, so I went with what I decided to be the most straightforward option: creamy peanut butter. This was the only no-stir peanut butter I tried, so it was also the most convenient and mess-free choice.

Even though this peanut butter had added sugar, the calorie count was on par with the others. It contained 180 calories per 2-tablespoon serving, the same as the Kirkland Signature brand, and a hair less than the 190-calorie 365 and Trader Joe's versions.

I appreciated how easy it was to spread Wegmans' creamy peanut butter.
A jar of peanut butter with an orange and red label sits next to a plate of apple slices and crackers. Thick-looking peanut butter is spread on one cracker
I spread Wegmans' creamy peanut butter on a cracker.

Wegmans' peanut butter was tasty and notably denser than the others I tried.

Its texture reminded me of Jif peanut butter because it was thick and a little less creamy than I prefer. Still, it was good, and my kids appreciated its spreadability.

Finally, I tasted the Kirkland Signature organic creamy peanut butter.
A large jar of peanut butter with a red and brown label and a red lid
The Kirkland Signature organic creamy peanut butter came in the largest portion size.

The Kirkland Signature organic creamy peanut butter came in a pack of two 28-ounce containers. This much peanut butter would take a while to consume, so it definitely requires some commitment on the buyer's part.

This peanut butter was my family's favorite option.
A jar of peanut butter with a brown and red label sits next to a white plate of crackers and apple slices. Creamy-looking peanut butter drips down an apple slice on the plate
We loved the Kirkland Signature peanut butter's flavor and texture.

This peanut butter was creamy, not too salty, and flavorful, with a pleasant touch of graininess. My 6-year-old gave it two thumbs up, and my 3-year-old singled it out for the next day's after-school snack.

It was tasty enough for a sandwich but would work in various recipes due to its unsweetened flavor. My local Costco usually stocks Skippy, but if I ever need an alternative, I'll know the Kirkland Signature brand is a reliable backup.

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The 10 best swimsuits for DD+ cups that we've actually tried and loved

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Side-by-side of two models with DD cups sizes wearing bathing suit tops.

Finding the best swimsuits for women come summertime is no easy feat – and those specifically in need of the best swimsuits for large busts (including yours truly!) knows that the struggle is *very* real. 

Of course, the best swimsuits for DD+ cups should offer optimal support and coverage to prevent your boobs from spilling, sagging, or, worst of all, flashing fellow pool or beachgoers. However, this should not come at the expense of comfort or style. Fortunately, the World Wide Web is chock-full of functional active swimsuits as well as fashion-forward bikini tops for DD+ cups – though you may have to do some digging to find the best ones to suit your specific taste. 

Fortunately, we've got you covered: our list below has both top-rated options and swimsuits that other big-busted gals and myself personally swear by. You'll find several picks sourced from brands with the best plus size clothing, from under-$50 staples to pricier pieces designed with durability – and style – in mind, the best swimsuits come in a range of sizes and silhouettes. For example, some offer underwire and cups (similar to a typical bra), while others have no padding at all. Brands also run the gamut, and you'll find options from Summersalt, Cuup, and Andie, to name a few. And, who knows? You may even find your new favorite. 

TA3 Plungey Swimsuit
Sally Kaplan wears a blue one piece TA3 swimsuit.

The swimsuit that went viral for its hourglass defining corset strings also creates ample lift and support.

This shaping swimsuit came to fame via Shark Tank, and later found success with people looking for the best swimsuits for DD+ cups due to its adjustable straps, removable bust pads, and lifting corset. This suit doubles as a bodysuit and sculpts your figure with a fit and feel similar to that of a supportive sports bra.

Standout review: "I have a DDD cup size so I specifically wanted to see if the low-cut suit could handle larger cup sizes. I was honestly amazed by how secure I felt while swimming and snorkeling during my vacation to Mexico! The suit kept everything in place and I felt really confident doing lots of activities in it." —Sally Kaplan, Insider Reviews Executive Editor

Read more in our full TA3 swimsuit review.

Speedo Iris Sports One Piece Swimsuit
Side by side images of models wearing the Speedo Iris Sports One Piece Swimsuit in a swimming pool, showing the front and back of the suit.

This sleek black one-piece is anything but basic with its high neckline and mesh cutouts.

You may assume Speedo has solely the best active swimsuits, but you'd be in for a pleasant surprise once you try on this one piece with its subtly alluring mesh cutouts. It can double as a bodysuit and has a high neckline and bra-like clasp at the back. The balconette shape and wired cups (which are non-padded) are just as functional (read: supportive) as they are fashionable. It's also made from durable, fast drying fabric, which means the suit will last for several seasons to come.

Cuup The Balconette Swim Top
Person wearing an olive green swimsuit bra.

This bra-style swim top offers optimal support for folks with bigger busts.

This vintage-inspired number from Cuup is especially accomodating for those with DD+ cups. What's more, the wide straps, adjustable band, and underwire cups offer optimal support. Even better? It's made with sunscreen-, chlorine-, and salt water-resistant material that comes from recycled fishing nets. It's available in eight colors, from bright orange to olive green and beyond.  

Standout review: "This is beautiful with a nice, thick material. It fits perfectly and true to size. I love it. And I love that CUUP is still making my uncommon size. Other companies eventually cut out my size, so I'm happy to continue to have what I need here."

Andie The Maui Top
Person wearing a black swim suit bralette.

The uber-supportive Maui top is described as a cross between a crop top and a sports bra.

Andie makes stylish swimwear in sizes 0-26, and this top, which has garnered nearly 500 reviews, is no exception. Described as a cross between a crop top and a sports bra, the ultra-comfy Maui is among the brand's best swimsuits for DD+ cups. The soft cups are removable, while the adjustable straps and thick band are an added bonus. Lastly, the top also offers compressive lining and four-way stretch for optimal comfort. Select from 10 vibrant hues. 

Standout review: "This bathing suit makes me feel so confident. It's structured, pretty, and stays put in the water. I feel like I can go swimming without worrying about adjusting my bathing suit. I got so many compliments on the cut and color.

Read more in our full Andie swim reviews.

Swimsuits for All Crisscross Cup Sized Wrap Underwire Bikini Top
Close up of person wearing a hot pink swim suit top.

This wallet-friendly bikini top offers a supportive and fashion-forward fit.

From its stylish criss-cross silhouette to its built-in underwire bra, to this under-$50 price tag, you can't go wrong by purchasing this bikini top. Those with DD+ cups will appreciate the underwire bra cups, while the mesh frame and side boning offer additional support. The keyhole back with hook closures (similar to a traditional bra) and removable, adjustable shoulder straps help truly set this bikini top apart from the competition. Choose from four colors.

Standout review: "I'm a big girl with a large bust (G/H) and I've always had a tough time finding a swimsuit I liked and I have never been comfortable in anything but a one piece. This is the first bikini I've worn since I was a kid – I love it and it's so flattering! I haven't worn this swimsuit to the beach yet, but I am so excited to (and I have NEVER been excited to get in a swimsuit)!"

Read more in our full Swimsuits for All reviews

Body Glove Women's Standard Smoothies Solo Solid Underwire Bikini Top
Person standing wearing a blue swim suit bra.

Featuring a super-soft blend of nylon and spandex, this underwire bikini top is a fan-favorite with more than 2,000 reviews – and for good reason. The silhouette, which resembles a typical underwire bra, boasts removable soft cups and a tie closure for a customizable and secure fit. Plus, the straps are convertible in that they can be worn criss-crossed (like a racerback) depending on your own personal style and fit preferences. Customers can choose from a whopping 18 colors.

Standout review: "I'm a 34DDD and it is so hard to find tops that can actually give you coverage. This swim top is the best I've ever found and it's so flattering!"

Summersalt The Perfect Wrap One-Piece
Model wearing a pink and orange one piece swim suit.

This universally flattering one-piece features built-in cups, compression fabric, and seemingly endless color options.

I love Summersalt for its colorful suits and inclusive size range. Fortunately, many of the styles are big bust-approved, too. My DDD-cup breasts feel comfortable and supported in the brand's The Perfect Wrap One-Piece. The compression fabric provides security – through ocean frolics and pool dives – while the built-in cups offer extra coverage. While I own the suit in Deep Sea (navy), I hope to add other colors and patterns to my collection, too. 

Standout review: "This fits me better than any other one piece I've tried. I was seriously shocked when I put it on. I am larger chested and it makes my boobs look great but also feels very secure, and the wrap feature is incredibly flattering. I'm going to need to buy a second in a different color."

Read more in our full Summersalt review

Karla Colletto Twist Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit
Model wearing a bright red one-piece swim suit.

This stretchy swimsuit – complete with supportive underwire cups and ruched detailing –  is well worth the splurge, IMHO.

While they're definitely pricey, I've worn all of my Karla Colletto suits for several years, making them well worth the splurge if you want one of the best swimsuits for DD+ cups that'll last. The designer's Twist Underwire One-Piece Swimsuit features a stretchy nylon-spandex blend with ruching on the top, a plunge neckline, and a scoop back. I especially love the underwire cups, which keep my boobs from spilling or sagging.

Standout review: "Classic and very comfortable. I have a larger bust and narrow hips, and it is impossible to find a one piece suit that can accommodate both! This one does. The fabric is very soft and the underwire nearly unnoticable. Perfect suit to give support and comfort at the same time."

L Space Ribbed Phoebe One Piece Swimsuit
Model wearing the black Phoebe Classic One-Shoulder Rib One-Piece Swimsuit.

From the one-shoulder silhouette to the sultry cutouts, to the the ribbed fabric, there's lots to love about this trend-forward one-piece.

I own many a one-piece swimsuits, but this one from L Space is among my most stylish. Its modern design features a one-shoulder silhouette complete with cut-out detailing, as well as a super-soft ribbed construction, which adds an extra-fashionable flair. Even better is the built-in bra, which offers coverage, shape, and security – ensuring I look and feel my best at all times. It looks so good, I'm even considering wearing it as a top on my Hawaii honeymoon next month. 

Standout review: "This suit fits perfectly on me and is good quality and very classy. I especially like that it holds me in and actually creates a nice waist for me. It's high cut in the leg in front and makes my legs look longer. I only wish it had molded cups for more coverage, but that's a personal preference. I am 5'6" at 137lbs and normally an 8 or 10. The black 12 fits just right!"

Lively The Busty Bralette
Model wearing a striped swimsuit top from Lively.

Lively modeled its "busty" bralette swim tops off its famous bralette for large cup sizes, and it's one of the most comfortable bathing suits we've tested. The small strap connecting the two cups isn't just aesthetic — it also offers support and keeps your chest in place.
The top also has adjustable straps and a hook-style clasp in the back. It's available in prints and solid colors, and you can choose from a few bikini styles for the matching bottoms. The top comes in sizes 1, 2, or 3, each of which cover a range of sizes from 30DD to 40DD.

Standout review: "I HATE swimsuit shopping because nothing ever fits right until I tried this top. I'm between a 32D and 32DD and this fits like a dream. Good support for a swimsuit, doesn't move out of place, and is holding up great!"

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Here's what Apple will say if a US TikTok ban becomes law

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Tim Cook, chief executive officer of Apple Inc., speaks during the China Development Forum 2024 at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse on March 24, 2024 in Beijing, China.
Apple just removed a host of messaging apps from its Chinese app store. CEO Tim Cook spoke at a conference in Beijing in March.
  • Apple just removed WhatsApp, Signal, and other messaging apps from its Chinese app store.
  • Big Tech is used to these compromises in order to do business in various parts of the world.
  • But it could happen in the US, too, if a TikTok ban bill becomes law.

"We are obligated to follow the laws in the countries where we operate, even when we disagree."

Remember that quote.

It's from an unidentified Apple comms person, to The Wall Street Journal, explaining why Apple just took four messaging/social media apps — WhatsApp, Threads, Signal, and Telegram — out of its Chinese app store.

If you follow Apple and its complicated, codependent relationship with China, you have definitely heard it, or versions of it before — like when Chinese authorities forced Apple to remove an app used by Hong Kong protesters in 2019.

You've also heard versions of it over the last few years in other countries, as big US tech companies make concessions to local rulers that would never fly in the US. Like when Netflix removed an episode of comedian Hasan Minhaj's newsy show to satisfy Saudia Arabia, or when Facebook removed posts that Turkey's government didn't like.

But now we are getting closer to hearing Apple and other tech companies use the same words to describe their actions in America.

A proposed anti-TikTok law, which has already been approved by the House, has renewed energy (TLDR: The bill may now be packaged along with measures approving aid for Ukraine and Israel, which increases the chances the Senate may pass it; Joe Biden has already said he'd sign the bill if it gets to its desk.)

If the TikTok bill does become law, it won't make TikTok go away overnight in the US.

In theory, TikTok could continue to operate in the US if ByteDance, its Chinese owner, sells it to someone else — though the Chinese government really, really doesn't want that to happen. More practically, the bill would immediately head to the US court system, where it could get tied up for a very long time.

But if the law jumps enough hurdles to become enforceable, Apple would have to remove TikTok from its US app store, as would Google.

That would be an unprecedented move in this country. But Apple has a quote ready in case it needs it.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Stock market today: Indexes edge lower as investors assess Israel's strike on Iran

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NYSE trader
  • US stocks edged lower on Friday as investors assessed Israel's strike against Iran.
  • The missile strike was limited and is seen as symbolic and could serve as an off-ramp to avoid further conflict.
  • Oil prices spiked more than 3% in wake of the attack, but has since erased all of those gains.

US stocks moved slightly lower on Friday as investors assess Israel's direct strike against Iran.

The reported missile strike, which targeted key military sites in Isfahan, was largely seen as symbolic and could serve as an off-ramp to avoid further conflict.

"Similar to the situation heading into last weekend the response seemed well telegraphed and left minimal damage and casualties. Press is suggesting that the tit-for-tat response was designed to de-escalate the situation and commentary from Iranian sources have suggested there is no immediate plan for retaliation," NYSE market strategist Michael Reinking said. 

Oil prices surged overnight following news of the strike, with WTI Crude Oil surging more than 3%, but it has since erased those gains and has moved lower.

Investors continue to digest US earnings results, with Netflix the latest megacap to report its first-quarter results.

So far, of the 13% of S&P 500 companies that have reported earnings results, 77% of them have beat profit estimates by a median of 7%, while 55% beat revenue estimates by a median of 3%, according to data from Fundstrat.

Here's where US indexes stood shortly after the 9:30 a.m. opening bell on Friday: 

Here's what else is going on today: 

In commodities, bonds, and crypto: 

  • West Texas Intermediate crude oil dropped 0.74% to $81.49 a barrel. Brent crude, the international benchmark, fell 0.77% to $86.44 a barrel. 
  • Gold edged lower by 0.29% to $2,391.10 per ounce. 
  • The 10-year Treasury yield fell 2 basis points to 4.60%. 
  • Bitcoin edged higher by 1.81% to $64,663. 
Read the original article on Business Insider

The 11 best shampoos for hair growth in 2024, according to experts

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A collection of the best shampoos for hair growth on a yellow gradient background.
The best shampoos for hair growth are specifically formulated to rejuvenate strands and cleanse the scalp for healthy hair.

Maybe you've always dreamed of Rapunzel-worthy locks — or maybe you got an impulsive chop at the salon, and regret is sinking in. Either way, you're looking for the best shampoos for hair growth. If there's one thing I've learned on my quest for thicker and longer tresses, it's that healthy hair growth all starts with a healthy scalp. That means finding the right shampoo.

Hair grows around 0.35 millimeters each day, which amounts to 0.5 inches in a month and 6 inches in a year. While experts agree that even the best shampoo won't necessarily speed up the rate of growth, it can help support healthy growth by nourishing the hair follicle, washing away follicle-clogging impurities, and preventing breakage.

Although the medication minoxidil — known commercially as Rogaine — may help increase hair growth, it's important to note that it's not safe for everyone and can cause side effects, like scalp irritation, burning, and itching, as well as more severe allergic reactions. Even low amounts of minoxidil can be toxic to cats and dogs. That's why experts advise only pursuing this option with your dermatologist or trichologist as a last resort.

Over the years, I've tested dozens of products that promise to boost hair growth, and I always find myself returning to the Nutrafol Root Purifier Scalp Shampoo. And as it turns out, this is a top favorite of board-certified dermatologists, too. That's because it replenishes the scalp's moisture, nutrients, and skin barrier all at once.

Ultimately, finding the right shampoo for hair growth depends on your specific hair texture, concerns, and goals. We spoke with experts Jody A. Levine, MD, the Director of Dermatology at Plastic Surgery & Dermatology of NYC, Dr. Naana Boakye, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Bergen Dermatology, and Dr. Christina Han, a board-certified dermatologist and the Director of Dermatology at False Creek Dermatology, to learn more about their recommendations and what makes a top-notch shampoo for hair growth. With that in mind, here are some expert-approved options that really work.

Our top picks for the best shampoos for hair growth:

Best overall: Nutrafol Root Purifier Scalp Shampoo - See at Amazon

Best drugstore: Pantene Nutrient Blends Rice Shampoo - See at Amazon

Best for dandruff: Vichy DERCOS Anti-Dandruff Treatment Shampoo - See at Walmart

Best for flat hair: Virtue Full Shampoo - See at Sephora

Best for thin hair: Briogeo Destined for Density Shampoo - See at Ulta

Best for curly hair: OCOA Beauty Curl Care Shampoo - See at OCOA

Best for breakage: Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo - See at Amazon

Best thickening: Bondi Boost Thickening Therapy Shampoo - See at Sephora

Best strengthening: The Rootist Strengthen Concentrated Shampoo - See at Sephora

Best for hair loss: Vegamour GRO+ Advanced Replenishing Shampoo - See at Vegamour

Best luxury: Oribe Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo - See at Nordstrom

Best overall

As someone who has struggled with scalp health issues, like dandruff — which undoubtedly has impeded my hair growth — I repeatedly return to this shampoo. It leaves my scalp feeling super clean without completely stripping my hair, has a lovely citrus-meets-herbal scent, and, most importantly, my hair really does start feeling thicker and stronger after using it for at least a month or two straight.

Levine recommends this shampoo because it contains prebiotics and other natural ingredients that can help restore the proper pH balance of the scalp's microbiome.

"This helps balance oil production without over-drying the scalp, hydrates and nourishes both the scalp and hair, and visibly enhances hair's volume, strength, and texture," she explains.

This shampoo also features quinoa protein, which contains all nine essential amino acids. Studies have found when hair is lacking in these amino acids, the structure tends to suffer, leading to damage and breakage.

Best drugstore

The best shampoos for hair growth don't just feature nourishing, strengthening ingredients — they also lack ingredients that could sabotage your hair or scalp health. For example, Boakye strongly advises looking for shampoos that don't contain parabens or sulfates, which can be drying and irritating. 

Han also strongly recommends looking for shampoo that contains amino acids, which are the building blocks of healthy hair. This product features the amino acid histidine — which according to research, may help to improve hair strength. A 2017 study found that a large majority of people with hair loss have a histidine deficiency.

But the real standout ingredient in this budget-friendly shampoo is rice water. Researchers have discovered that rice water may improve hair elasticity — thus making it less prone to breakage. Additionally, inositol — one of its components —  can penetrate damaged hair, repairing and strengthening it from the inside out.

Best for dandruff

As far as we know, dandruff doesn't necessarily directly cause hair loss. However, it can increase sebum production, and research has shown that the inflammation, irritation, and itchiness this causes may lead to hair follicle damage that promotes hair loss. So, if you have dandruff, the first step to supporting hair growth is seeking out shampoos that are specifically formulated to treat this condition. Keep in mind that it's best to ask your dermatologist for personalized recommendations based on your symptoms and their severity. They may need to prescribe a stronger medicated shampoo if over-the-counter shampoos don't relieve your dandruff.

All that said, Han recommends this budget-friendly shampoo because it contains more than one active ingredient to address dandruff and was named a top pick for those with oily scalps in our guide to the best dandruff shampoos. One is selenium sulfide, — this combats the overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, which is linked to the development of dandruff. The other is salicylic acid, which can help break down the scales and flakes on your scalp so they wash away more easily.

"I like this one because it comes in two formulations — one for dry hair and one for more normal-to-oily hair — allowing for a more customizable treatment shampoo," she explains.

Best flat hair

Struggling to get some life back into your limp locks? Han says this shampoo is a great pick for anyone with fine to medium hair since the formula is super lightweight, so it won't weigh your strands down.

"It also contains keratin, the main protein that makes up hair, to provide more volume and repair to each hair."

More specifically, the formula features Virtue's proprietary Alpha Keratin 60ku® protein, which your scalp might be able to more easily use and recognize for damage repair since it's identical to the human keratin in your own hair.

Studies have shown that the lower the lipid content of your hair, the more weak, brittle, and damage-prone your hair is — and fortunately, this formula also boasts phospholipids to support healthy hair growth.

Best for thin hair

According to Levine, biotin and caffeine are two ingredients to look for in the best shampoos for hair growth — and luckily, this product has both.

"Biotin (vitamin B7) is essential for the production of keratin, a protein that makes up the structure of hair and helps strengthen hair follicles, preventing breakage and promoting overall hair health," she explains. "Meanwhile, caffeine helps stimulate blood circulation and deliver nutrients to hair while also counteracting the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss."

I'm a longtime fan of Brigeo's whole haircare line because the products are clean, emphasize naturally derived ingredients, and always contain nutrients with well-studied benefits. This shampoo is no exception, with scalp-stimulating and antioxidant-rich green coffee oil, copper peptides to promote hair growth, and lindera strychnifolia root extract for a healthy, balanced scalp microbiome. I never get tired of the warm vanilla-tinged, fruit-forward scent, either.

One thing worth noting is that if you already have super dry hair, you may want to follow this up with an extra-rich conditioner or mask, as it can be a tad drying. That's pretty standard for any shampoo made for thin hair, though — these formulas don't tend to contain some of the richer oils that may weigh thinner strands down.

Best for curly hair

Curly hair is more prone to dryness and frizz. That means you'll want to look for shampoos that are formulated with lots of moisturizing ingredients that can penetrate the hair shaft, leaving hair softer, smoother, and more elastic. Hence, it's less vulnerable to breakage. This one fits the bill: the formula includes nourishing cupuaçu seed butter, glycerin, and sunflower seed oil.

Meerika Khanna, a certified trichologist and founder of Rthvi, says this shampoo is not only great for curly hair but also features ingredients to support hair growth — like rosemary leaf extract. Some studies have found that rosemary extract is just as effective at protecting against hair loss as the medication minoxidil (commonly known as Rogaine), and other studies have shown that it can stimulate hair growth in people with alopecia areata — an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss.

Best for breakage

Between bleaching it every few months and heat styling it almost every time I shower, I put my poor hair through the wringer. I've been hard-pressed to find shampoos that don't leave my already dry hair feeling like straw — that is, until I discovered Olaplex No. 4. The formula — which has a luxuriously creamy feel — is packed with plant-based oils and other ultra-moisturizing ingredients, so I don't have to go overboard with conditioner afterward. But the real advantage to this shampoo, according to Han, lies in Olaplex's patented ingredient: bis-aminopropyl diglycol dimaleate. (Say that five times fast.)

"It helps to restore strength in the hair shaft by repairing broken bonds that occur because of exposure to chemicals/dyes, heat, and UV rays."

Not only that, but this shampoo features moisture-boosting hyaluronic acid, strengthening plant-based protein, and rosemary leaf extract to support hair growth. The subtle yet refreshing grapefruit-tinged scent doesn't hurt, either.

Check out some of our other favorite bond-building treatments here.

Best thickening

I'm not sure exactly what happened between my 20s and 30s, but my previously thick tresses have been getting gradually thinner. It's a bummer because even though I have a lot of hair, it doesn't look like much — leaving me with pretty sad-looking ponytails and buns. That's why I've prioritized thickening shampoos like this derm-approved one, which has a pretty impressive ingredient list. I also happen to like the clean, faintly floral scent.

"This shampoo contains amaranth extract which acts as a natural hair strengthener and also has ceramides and biotin to improve the strength of each strand, preventing premature breakage," explains Han.

BondiBoost's longtime star ingredient is Australian aloe vera powder, which may help restore lost moisture in the hair and fortify the hair cuticles. This shampoo also contains vegan marine collagen, which contains some nonessential amino acids the body uses to build keratin — the main building block of healthy hair.

Best strengthening

I'll admit I was skeptical when I read the instructions on this concentrated shampoo, which advised using half the amount I usually do. Alas, I got a pretty rich lather despite applying much less product. That means the bottle lasts way longer despite taking up less space in my shower. I love the uplifting, lemony scent and the fact that it leaves my hair feeling soft, bouncy, and more manageable.

According to Levine, the best shampoos for hair growth contain collagen and/or keratin. This product has both. 

"Collagen provides essential amino acids that support the structure of hair follicles," she says. Keratin, a protein that makes up the structure of hair and helps strengthen hair follicles, prevents breakage, and promotes overall hair health," she adds.

Han also recommends looking for shampoos that are packed with peptides, which this product also has, thanks to the addition of hydrolyzed yeast protein. Peptides can support scalp and hair hydration as well as hair follicle health.

Best for hair loss

You may have noticed cannabidiol (CBD) popping up in more haircare and other products as of late, and that's no surprise when you consider that it can help regulate sebum production for improved scalp health. In fact, participants in a small 2021 study applied CBD topically every day for six months, and researchers observed a 93.5% increase in hair count — with no side effects, to boot. CBD is the superstar ingredient in this innovative shampoo, which also leverages the silk protein and vegan keratin alternative Karmatin™. All of that may help to explain why in a study of 150 users, 91% saw an improvement in the appearance of their hair after using this shampoo.

Boakye says aloe vera juice is one of her favorite ingredients to look for in shampoos for hair growth, and this formula happens to feature it. Studies show that aloe has scalp-calming anti-inflammatory properties and can boost blood circulation to the scalp. Researchers believe aloe vera may also help with hair growth because it can increase the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the hair follicles.

Another standout ingredient? Arginine — an important amino acid found in the hair that can reduce help shedding, thus helping you achieve a fuller mane.

Best luxury

This gentle yet nourishing shampoo has definitely achieved cult-favorite status, and it's easy to see why. Oribe Gold Lust is packed with healing and moisturizing oils and butters — like argan oil, shea butter, and maracuja — and other powerful ingredients like biotin, plant collagen, and plant-based protein. It also has scalp-invigorating caffeine, which Khanna and Levine say is a game changer for hair growth.

"Caffeine helps stimulate blood circulation and deliver nutrients to hair while also counteracting the effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone associated with hair loss," says Levine.

What to look for

Ingredients:

The best shampoos for hair growth will contain the following, according to dermatologists and trichologists:

  • Keratin
  • Biotin
  • Amino acids
  • Peptides
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Argan or jojoba oil
  • Rosemary
  • Saw palmetto

"These natural ingredients have been shown to promote increased strength and integrity of existing hairs while decreasing the potential for shedding," explains Han. Rosemary and saw palmetto also demonstrate the ability to inhibit or block dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can be toxic to hair follicles. The others are geared more toward improving the strength of hair and repairing damage to the hair shaft that can occur with heat, styling, and environmental exposures such as UV radiation and pollution."

As for what to avoid, Levine, Boakye, and Khanna advise skipping shampoos that contain:

  • Parabens
  • Sulfates
  • Synthetic fragrances

Hair type: 

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) strongly advises opting for a shampoo that's formulated specifically for your hair type to ensure it's tailored to your needs. Otherwise, you likely won't reap the benefits you're looking for — or worse, you could risk damaging your hair, says Levine.

"For example, coal tar (a common ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos and conditioners) isn't suitable for light-colored hair due to the risk of discoloration," explains Han. "For people with fine hair, I generally suggest products without heavy ingredients that might make the hair look more flat and limp."

For example, shea butter, coconut oil, and sunflower oil are all super hydrating and perfectly suited to medium to thick dry hair but will probably weigh down fine hair.

Minoxidil:

Levine says the medication minoxidil (commonly known by the brand name Rogaine) can be beneficial for some people with severe hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia and other hair disorders. However, Han notes that it's not safe for anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding and can poison dogs and cats — even in small amounts. Minoxidil is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18 or anyone who has experienced scalp infections or inflammation, hair loss after childbirth, or sudden/patchy hair loss.

Han notes that oral minoxidil tends to have more severe side effects than the topical version of this production. That said, topical minoxidil can still cause unpleasant or concerning side effects, like:

  • Skin irritation that can worsen eczema
  • Itching and/or a burning sensation on the scalp
  • Skin scaling, which can worsen the scalp condition seborrheic dermatitis
  • Excessive hair shedding
  • Excessive body hair growth

This is why Han and Levine advise consulting with a board-certified dermatologist. They will consider your scalp health, overall health history, and other factors before determining whether Minoxidil is right for you.

"Rosemary oil has been shown to offer similar benefits to minoxidil in clinical studies, making it a viable alternative," says Khanna.

In a 2015 study, participants with androgenetic alopecia used either topical minoxidil or rosemary oil on their scalp. When researchers examined their hair at a three-month and six-month follow-up, both groups experienced equal growth. However, the minoxidil participants experienced more scalp itching than those who used rosemary oil.

FAQs

What causes hair loss?

According to Levine, hair loss can be caused by a number of factors, including:

  • Hormonal imbalances — for example, as a result of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • Genetics
  • Underlying medical conditions
  • Side effects from certain medications — like blood thinners, antifungals, beta-blockers, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and acne treatments with vitamin A
  • Stress
  • Nutritional deficiencies, like low iron levels 

"Genetics, in particular, play a big role in pattern hair loss," says Han. "Genetically-driven hair loss is progressive and will worsen over time without treatment. Reversing and/or treating the underlying medical issue is important in optimizing the chances of hair regrowth."

Han also notes that hormonal changes are another common cause of hair loss — particularly in those assigned female at birth. This can happen as a result of pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. In people assigned male at birth, Khanna says this is usually related to an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) at the hair follicles.

"The underlying hormonal shifts that occur during these events are thought to play a role and can unmask the underlying genetic predisposition of progressive hair loss in some individuals," Han explains. "For example, all people assigned male at birth will have detectable levels of DHT — why some progress to baldness and others don't may be related to how sensitive their hair follicles are to DHT which is ultimately driven by genetics."

How you treat your hair loss will depend on what's triggering it. That's why Boakye advises seeing a dermatologist or trichologist who can help you identify the root cause of your hair growth.

Does shampoo help hair growth?

"Shampoo works to clean the scalp and hair, which in turn can promote hair growth," says Boakye. "However, results will vary depending on individual hair type and based on consistent use."

Hair growth shampoos can help if poor scalp health is to blame for hair thinning or shedding. However, according to Boakye, even the best shampoos for hair growth are less likely to yield results if there are underlying reasons for your hair loss — such as genetics, nutritional deficiencies, and hormone imbalances. 

"Shampoos formulated for hair loss or thinning can help slow down these conditions, but they won't reverse them or actually cause hair to regrow," explains Han. I view them as complementary products that patients can add to their hair loss regimen, which usually features a prescription medication."

What is the difference between regular shampoo and shampoo for hair growth?

"Regular shampoos are formulated to clean and rid the hair of dirt, sweat, and unwanted oils," says Boakye.

What distinguishes shampoo for hair growth is the inclusion of certain ingredients that are known to promote scalp and hair health, says Levine. These ingredients are intended to prevent breakage — thereby allowing the hair to grow longer — while also nourishing the scalp and hair follicles to support growth.

"Shampoos formulated for hair loss should contain ingredients with anti-inflammatory and antioxidizing properties," says Han. "Many shampoos formulated for hair loss may also contain ingredients that help optimize the scalp health, which is an important foundation for healthy follicles. If there are signs of inflammation, such as flaking and itching, it can be helpful to use these shampoos to promote a healthy scalp environment."

How long does it take to see results from shampoos for hair growth?

Don't expect to see results from your hair growth shampoo immediately — after all, healthy hair only grows about 0.5 inches per month.

According to Levine and Khanna, it typically takes at least three or four months to see any effects on your hair thickness or length. However, Khanna says you may notice improvements in your hair quality — the shine, softness, and strength, for example — after just a few weeks of using these shampoos.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I've visited all 50 states solo. These are the 8 places I'd pick for a relaxing, low-key vacation.

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Emily, wearing a white bathing suit, hat, and sunglasses, sits on a lounge chair under an umbrella. There are cacti in the background.
I've found lots of spots in the US for a relaxing getaway.
  • After traveling solo to all 50 US states, I've found some great places to relax and unwind.
  • I love visiting coastal towns in California, Oregon, and Maine.
  • I also enjoy disconnecting in Taos, New Mexico, and Homer, Alaska.

Over the past decade, I've traveled to all 50 US states and spent time in tons of major cities and small towns. I've also driven solo across the country several times, stopping in some of the most unique and beautiful places the United States has to offer.

Although I love finding a heart-pumping adventure or bustling city to explore, there's nothing quite like a getaway meant for relaxation. Turns out I'm not alone in this thought, as more and more travelers gravitate toward relaxing getaways.

Although relaxation can sometimes be more of a state of mind than a physical place, some destinations I've visited have made it easier to embrace a low-key and laid-back attitude than others.

Here are eight places I'd recommend for a relaxing getaway.

California's Sonoma Coast is more tranquil than the state's touristy areas.
Emily, wearing a purple hat, sunglasses, a flannel, and a jacket, stands on a grassy coastline.
California's Sonoma Coast is beautiful and serene.

California's Sonoma Coast is home to some of the state's most dramatic scenery. With towering cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, rolling hills covered in vineyards, and ancient redwood forests, this is where I love to visit to simply immerse myself in nature.

Unlike the more touristy areas in Southern California, the beaches here are generally less crowded and more peaceful. I love to drive the coast to lunch in Bodega Bay, relax on the sand at Goat Rock Beach while listening to the sound of the waves, and enjoy the fresh ocean air.

Taos, New Mexico, is the perfect spot to unwind.
In the foreground is a small hotel room with an open door. Outside the door, Emily sits on a wooden path with a cup of coffee.  She is looking out at a wide-open area with mountains.
I love spending time in Taos, New Mexico.

Taos, a small historic town in northern New Mexico, is the spot I always return to for a relaxing and low-key getaway.

Nestled amid the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Taos has some of the most breathtaking landscapes I've ever encountered and is the perfect spot to watch a sunrise or sunset.

I love spending a few nights in a short-term rental or a vintage camper reading, relaxing, and visiting nearby hot springs and art galleries.

It's easy to disconnect in Homer, Alaska.
Emily walking toward wet sand, with mountains in the distance. Her back is to the camera and she's wearing a red-and-black flannel, black pants, and red boots.
Homer, Alaska is located on the tip of the Kenai Peninsula.

Nestled on the tip of the Kenai Peninsula, Homer, Alaska, feels very peaceful and low-key.

The majestic mountains, glaciers peeking out in the distance, and stunning coastline dotted with islands make Homer visually stunning, with a charming downtown and opportunities to explore.

There are many outdoor-adventure opportunities here, but visitors can just as easily have a slower-paced vacation and truly disconnect.

Spend time exploring the coastline, take a scenic boat tour, and savor the local seafood — all with a tranquil view.

Pacific City, Oregon, offers a laid-back vibe with local shops, art galleries, and cafés.
Emily on a beach with snow. There are small mountains in the background.
Pacific City is my favorite spot on the Oregon Coast.

The Oregon Coast, as a whole, is the perfect destination for a relaxing, low-key getaway, but one of my favorite spots is Pacific City.

This quaint spot with a laid-back vibe has lots of local shops, art galleries, friendly cafés, and local restaurants to keep me busy between trips to the magnificent coastline.

Home to Haystack Rock and the stunning Cape Kiwanda scenic headland, you don't have to go far to find the natural beauty. Many hotels and rentals in the area even offer ocean views.

Lake Toxaway is North Carolina's private hidden gem.
Emily stands on a yoga mat on a dock. Behind her is a lake surrounded by trees.
Access to Lake Toxaway is limited to homeowners, short-term renters, and guests at The Greystone Inn.

Located in North Carolina, Lake Toxaway is one of the most beautiful places you likely haven't heard of.

The stunning lake, surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, is a true respite. With access granted only to homeowners, short-term renters, and guests at The Greystone Inn, the lake offers exceptional opportunities for rest.

Although there are opportunities for hiking, biking, and water sports, the beauty of Lake Toxaway is that you can do as much or as little as you please.

Avila Beach, California, is the perfect escape from California's big cities.
Emily walks along a grassy coastline at sunset.
Avila Beach, California, is the picture of relaxation.

Avila Beach is my favorite spot in Central California. Located between Los Angeles and San Francisco, this community is the picture of relaxation.

The quaint enclave is an escape from California's big cities and offers a relaxed vibe and friendly atmosphere. Explore local shops and galleries, grab a cup of coffee and a pastry at a waterfront café, or indulge in fresh seafood at a harborside restaurant — all at a leisurely pace.

Avila Beach also has hot springs and wineries nearby, which make the perfect additions to any low-key getaway.

Carefree, Arizona, offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Emily, wearing a white bathing suit, hat, and sunglasses, sits on a lounge chair under an umbrella. There are cacti in the background.
Carefree, Arizona, sits at the edge of the Sonoran Desert.

With a name like Carefree, it's no surprise you'll find low-key tranquility in this Arizona town. Offering a unique combination of desert beauty, wellness opportunities, and proximity to the Phoenix metro area, it is the perfect place to unwind.

Carefree sits at the edge of the Sonoran Desert, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and has become a hub for wellness seekers.

Several well-known wellness resorts and spas are located either in town or nearby, offering amenities and opportunities for rest and relaxation.

Take a scenic hike through McDowell Sonoran Preserve, or simply relax by the pool at your resort, soaking up the Arizona sunshine.

Coastal Maine offers a breathtaking and relaxing escape.
Emily, wearing a maroon sweatshirt with white lettering that reads "Maine," walks along a beach while holding a coffee cup. There are lots of trees in the distance.
I love spending time in Maine's picturesque costal towns.

No list of relaxing getaways would be complete without Coastal Maine. The rugged coastline of Maine, with its rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint harbor villages, offers a genuinely breathtaking and relaxing escape.

With many hidden coves and less-frequented stretches of sand, it's easy to find your own peaceful spot to soak up the sun, listen to the rhythm of the waves, and truly unwind.

Before a leisurely stroll along the coast, spend your days visiting the picturesque towns dotting the coastline and savoring fresh seafood and lobster rolls.

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'The Witcher' is ending, but season 4 won't be its last. Here's everything we know.

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Henry Cavill and Liam Hemsworth
Henry Cavill in "The Witcher" season three his replacement, Liam Hemsworth.
  • Netflix announced that "The Witcher" will end with season five.
  • Seasons four and five will be filmed back to back, with Liam Hemsworth as the new lead.
  • Here's what to know about the final two seasons.

Netflix announced the end of "The Witcher" — but there are still two more seasons before we get there.

The streamer confirmed on Thursday that "The Witcher" season four was in production.

It also said that it renewed the show for a fifth and final season, and would film both remaining seasons back-to-back.

"The Witcher" already made drastic changes in the past few years after Henry Cavill, who played Geralt of Rivia, announced in 2022 that he was leaving, passing the torch to Liam Hemsworth. Cavill ended his run as Geralt in season three, which premiered in 2023.

Some series, such as "Dynasty," "Riverdale," and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air," have been successful after recasting characters. However, it is pretty rare to see an abrupt recasting of the lead actor.

"The Witcher" posted a video on X Thursday of the whole cast at a table read of season four, including Hemsworth and new cast member Laurence Fishburne.

Here's what to know about the final two seasons.

"The Witcher" seems to be heading for a planned finale.
Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia in "The Witcher" season three.
Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia in "The Witcher" season three.

Neither Netflix nor the showrunner, Lauren Schmidt Hissrich, has given a reason for ending the show.

But it looks more like a planned end than a cancellation, given that there are still entire seasons in the works.

"It is with huge pride that we begin shooting our penultimate season of The Witcher with a stellar cast, including some exciting new additions, led by Liam Hemsworth as Geralt of Rivia," Hissrich told Netflix's online blog, Tudum.

"We're thrilled to be able to bring Andrzej Sapkowski's books to an epic and satisfying conclusion. It wouldn't be our show if we didn't push our family of characters to their absolute limit — stay tuned to see how the story ends."

The series is a book adaptation, so Netflix is likely not continuing past the end of the narrative in the books.

Season one of "The Witcher" was a major hit for Netflix, gaining 83 million views and inspiring the streamer to greenlight spin-off films and shows. Netflix was likely initially drawn by the popularity of the videogame adaptations of the same "Witcher" books.

However, seasons two and three failed to match up. Netflix could be looking to end the expensive fantasy series before the audience dwindles any further.

Henry Cavill is out, Chris Hemsworth is in.
Henry Cavill and Anya Chalotra in "The Witcher" season three episode five
Henry Cavill and Anya Chalotra as Geralt and Yennefer in "The Witcher" season three episode five.

Cavill never gave a reason for his exit from the show.

Many fans have speculated that Cavill left because he would rather focus on playing Superman.

He appears in the 2022 DC movie "Black Adam," but didn't play Superman again after the franchise was handed to James Gunn for a reboot.

Other fans speculated that Cavill, who was a big fan of "The Witcher" books and games, had problems with the adaptation.

In 2021, Cavill told the Philippine Star that he struggled to find a "balance between the showrunners' vision and my love for the books," and said he asked for changes to his character in season 2.

"The things that I pushed for, it was not necessarily just more dialogue. It was bringing a more book-accurate Geralt to the screen. Because as I'm sure you know in the books, Geralt is an amateur philosopher," he said.

"He's an intellectual. He's wise and thoughtful. Yes, he's at times morose, morbid, and snarky. But it's important for me to have the character be three-dimensional."

Laurence Fishburne and Liam Hemsworth join in season four.
laurence fishburne
Laurence Fishburne has joined the cast.

Hemsworth has taken on the mantle of Geralt, and the main leads, Joey Batey, Anya Chalotra, and Freya Allen, are set to return.

Most of the supporting cast will also return, except for MyAnna Buring, who played Tissaia, and Ed Birch, who played King Vizimir, after their characters' deaths in season three.

Season four also has some new stars.

Laurence Fishburne will play fan-favorite Geralt ally Regis, a wise vampire. Danny Woodburn will also play another fan-favorite character, the dwarf Zoltan. Sharlto Copley will join the cast as an infamous Witcher bounty hunter, Leo Bonhart, and James Purefoy will play the spy Skellen.

The final two seasons will adapt the final three "Witcher" books.
Freya Allan as Ciri in "The Witcher" season three episode seven.
Freya Allan as Ciri in "The Witcher" season three, episode seven.

"The Witcher" has been slowly adapting the books by Andrzej Sapkowski, with season three taking storylines from books "Blood of Elves," "Time of Contempt," and "Baptism of Fire."

Netflix said the final two seasons would adapt the final books of the "Witcher" saga, which includes the rest of "Baptism of Fire," as well as "The Tower of the Swallow" and "Lady of the Lake."

In these books, Geralt forms an army to save his ward, Ciri (Allen), and stop the sorcerer Vilgefortz (Mahesh Jadu). Yennefer tries to hunt Vilgefortz on her own, and Ciri travels to a world of magical elves.

Season three ended with Geralt questing to find Ciri, believing Vilgefortz had captured her. She's actually working with a group of thieves and Geralt is on the wrong trail.

The season four logline said that Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri will stay separated in the fourth season, leading their own "groups of misfits."

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Trump Media is trying to make it super-hard to short its stock

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Donald Trump
  • Trump Media is stepping up efforts to keep short-sellers from betting against DJT stock.
  • CEO Devin Nunes sent a letter to Nasdaq asking for action against so-called naked short-selling.
  • On Thursday, the company updated its FAQ with advise on how to prevent short-selling for retail investors.

Trump Media and Technology is trying to make it more difficult for short-sellers who want to bet against its stock, with company CEO Devin Nunes framing recent efforts as a case of market manipulation.

In a letter sent to Nasdaq chief Adena Friedman, Nunes outlined concern about so-called naked short-selling activity on the DJT stock, and asked that listed brokers disclose their net short positions.

"DJT appears on Nasdaq's 'Reg SHOthreshold list,' which is indicative of unlawful trading activity. This is particularly troubling given that 'naked' short selling often entails sophisticated market participants profiting at the expense of retail investors," the letter said, published Friday in an SEC filing.

Naked shorting is a banned form of investing, where the shares being bet against are never secured or borrowed. This can artificially distort market supply and incite volatility.

Nunes' letter comes a day after the company also updated its website FAQ with suggestions on how long-term investors can prevent the shorting of their stock. Options included opting out of security lending programs, and transferring shares into a retirement account.

Since Trump Media's market debut in March, short selling has been a go-to culprit for the heavy losses DJT has since witnessed, at least among the firm's staunchest supporters. On Friday, the stock climbed as high as 10.4%, with Truth Social users celebrating Nunes' commentary.

"Looks like @DevinNunes and his team will go down in history as the hero's who finally beat the naked shorts!" one user wrote on Friday. Trump Media is the platform's parent firm.

However, Friday's high is still about 44% below its peak in March. Shares have plummeted heavily on the firm's disappointing fundamentals, after it disclosed a $58 million revenue loss last year.

For company founder Donald Trump, that's taken a massive toll on his stake, once valued at over $5 billion. Instead, DJT's slide has lost him over $3.3 billion as of Tuesday

Read the original article on Business Insider

I tried Starbucks' new line of spicy drinks, and I'd order 2 of them again

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Starbucks Spicy Drinks
Starbucks released three new spicy drinks.
  • Starbucks has released three new drinks — Spicy Pineapple, Spicy Dragonfruit, and Spicy Strawberry.
  • It also released a new Spicy Cream Cold Foam. All four feature the chain's spicy chili powder blend.
  • I didn't enjoy the spicy cold foam, but I would order the Spicy Strawberry Refresher again.

"Want me to get you a glass of water with that?" my barista kindly asked, eyeing the four concoctions laid out before me.

It might sound like a strange offer at Starbucks, but these were no ordinary drinks.

These were the coffee giant's new spicy creations — and they're definitely bringing the heat.

Starbucks is kicking off spring with a line of Spicy Lemonade Refreshers, as well as a new Spicy Cream Cold Foam.
Starbucks Spicy Lemonade Refreshers
Starbucks' new spicy Refreshers are available now.

Starbucks is turning up the heat on three of its Refreshers with the Spicy Dragonfruit, Spicy Pineapple, and Spicy Strawberry, which were inspired by the ongoing "swicy" (sweet and spicy) food trend. The New York Times predicted "swicy food" would be huge in 2022, but it's had enduring appeal thanks to TikTok, plus new products from big brands and fast-food chains.

Each flavor features Starbucks' new spicy chili powder blend, and you can modify the amount of heat by asking for light, regular, or extra in your drink.

So, how did they actually taste? Let's find out.

4. Spicy Cream Cold Foam
Starbucks Spicy Cream Cold Foam
Starbucks' Spicy Cream Cold Foam with its original cold brew.

Starbucks' new Spicy Cream Cold Foam is made with the chain's classic cold foam and the spicy chili powder blend.

Flecks of chili powder were sprinkled throughout the cold foam, which was a few shades lighter than red pepper hummus. I was surprised by how thick and dense the foam tasted, markedly different from the light and fluffy texture of Starbucks' vanilla sweet cream cold foam. I could taste the heat of the chili, but there wasn't much else to the flavor. The cold foam didn't enhance the cold brew coffee underneath — it was just kind of there.

I'd be intrigued to try the Spicy Cream Cold Foam with a different Starbucks drink, like the Chocolate Cream Cold Brew or Blonde Vanilla Latte, to see if it works well with sweeter drinks. But when it comes to a regular cold brew, I would skip this new addition.

3. Spicy Pineapple
Starbucks Spicy Pineapple Refresher
Starbucks' Spicy Pineapple.

Starbucks' Spicy Pineapple Refresher features flavors of pineapple and passionfruit shaken with lemonade, real pineapple pieces, and the spicy chili powder blend.

I tried the Pineapple Passionfruit Refreshers with lemonade when it was first released in June 2022. Starbucks accurately described the drink as "sunshine in a cup" thanks to its bright and bold yellow hue.

The Spicy Pineapple is more of a sunset in a cup with its pretty golden-orange shade, but I had the same flavor issue with both drinks. The combined tartness from the pineapple and passion fruit overpowers the overall flavor, and adding that extra dose of heat makes the drink taste even more intense. I loved the juicy bites of real pineapple, but I think this drink needs a bit of sweetness.

2. Spicy Dragonfruit
Starbucks Spicy Dragonfruit Refresher
Starbucks' Spicy Dragonfruit.

Starbucks' Spicy Dragonfruit Refresher is made with mango and dragonfruit flavors, lemonade, real dragonfruit pieces, and the spicy chili powder blend.

The Spicy Dragonfruit still has the original drink's beautifully vivid purple color, and it's definitely the prettiest of the three new spicy Refreshers. It was also the first spicy Starbucks drink I tried, so I was a bit surprised when the heat of the chili powder hit me so quickly. But I was into it!

Mango and Tajín is a dream combination, so I'm not surprised that the chili powder works so well in the Spicy Dragonfruit. The sweetness of the mango helps balance that heat, which has a comfortable kick that adds some nice depth to the overall flavor.

It's a level of spice that dances on your tongue —  but with ballet slippers, not tap shoes.

1. Spicy Strawberry
Starbucks Spicy Strawberry Refresher
Starbucks' Spicy Strawberry.

Starbucks' Spicy Strawberry Refresher features the flavors of strawberry and acai, lemonade, the chili powder blend, and real pieces of strawberry.

"I can't believe how much I like this," I wrote in my notes after taking my first sip. The drink just really nails that delicate balance between spicy and sweet. It's fun, playful, and delicious — and instantly had me dreaming of margaritas.

"If hot girl summer was in a Starbucks cup," I declared in my notes after several more sips.

I was apprehensive when I first heard about Starbucks' foray into spicy territory, but I think the chain has delivered some really fun twists on its classic Refreshers. And I know I'll be sipping on the Spicy Dragonfruit and Spicy Strawberry drinks again — and maybe pouring some tequila into them.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Inside the disastrous apartments of NYC men, exposed by a TikTok comedian

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A bare bedroom with four white walls and an unmade bed.
Jerome Peel's bedroom, as featured on the new show "Boy Room."
  • The homes of New York City's young men are being captured on camera — and it isn't pretty. 
  • Comedian Rachel Coster is revealing the dirty sheets and trash-covered floors in "Boy Room."
  • Each episode reveals "scary" and "stressful" apartments and advice for how they could improve.

New York City-based comedian Rachel Coster, 28, sits on an unmade bed in a cramped West Village apartment and tries to make sense of what she's seeing.

"His shoe rack is a crumpled box and his bedside table is an abandoned suitcase," Coster exclaimed.

This is the apartment of a 25-year-old man.

Welcome to "Boy Room," the new series in which Coster and a cameraperson venture into the unruly habitats of New York City's men and try to offer advice. The show, produced by Gymnasium, airs on social media where it has already become a sweeping success, racking up 76,000 followers on TikTok and 26,000 followers on Instagram in just a few weeks.

A kernel of the show's inspiration came from a road trip Coster once took with a male friend. He confessed his bedroom was so off-putting to girls that he'd reached a breaking point. Coster offered to help when they returned to New York, but when the time came, he was too embarrassed to let her through the door.

"If any boys would let me in, I think I could really help them out," she recalled thinking to herself. Now, she got her wish.

Rachel Coster sits on a bed wearing a black blazer and holding a microphone.
Comedian Rachel Coster is bravely revealing the bedrooms of New York City's young men.

"Boy Room" aims to uncover the logic beneath each room's chaos and envisions an upgraded space

Launched in late March, the series has already visited six subjects, offering spaces that Coster has described as "scary" and "stressful." The sights are also humorous. Navy sheets on an unmade bed, a stray deodorant tucked under a pillow. A floor cloaked in dirty laundry and plastic take-out bags. Wall decorations including a car steering wheel or a Darth Vader mask.

The show uncovers all the strange idiosyncrasies of the ways some men inhabit their spaces, which Coster believes might be the fault of traditional social conditioning. "Girls are raised to take care of the house, generally. It's demanded of us or there's a shame around it," she said. "I don't feel like my guy friends were experiencing the same thing."

One subject, Chris, a 27-year-old living in Brooklyn's Boerum Hill neighborhood, existed in a sea of clutter with random paraphernalia like corks tied together with a string and a pile of wigs sitting under a dresser.

"I get nervous throwing stuff away," Chris explained during the episode.

"Well, let me tell you, it's awesome to do," Coster deadpanned to the camera.

@boy.room Chris, 27, Boerum Hill, NY Welcome to Boy Room, the show where we investigate boys rooms. On today’s episode, Rachel Coster goes over to Boerum Hill to the childlike room of a 27 year old that looks like he robbed a Barnes and Noble. #apartmenttour #nyc #messy #boys #boyroom #comedy #funny #hoarders #newyork ♬ original sound - Boy Room

Coster said she has sympathy for many of the men she features and at the end of each episode, offers her advice to improve their space. She recognizes that many, like her, are young and hustling in ambitious careers, and probably have very little time to focus on interior design and cleanliness.

Jerome Peel in a white t-shirt with a black-and-yellow icon showing his name for the Boy Room show.
Fashion brand owner Jerome Peel was a recent guest on "Boy Room."

That's an argument that rings true for another subject, Jerome Peel, whose sparsely-decorated bedroom in Manhattan's Chinatown neighborhood attracted a number of detractors on TikTok. He even drew heat from the official Wendy's account. "It just gets worse," the fast-food chain wrote.

"I'm in my apartment 10 hours a day," Peel, 32, told BI. He runs his own fashion brand, Peels, and the popular Instagram account Citibikeboyz, which features Peel and his friends executing daredevil tricks on New York City's bike-share network.

Peel stands by the way he has set up his room, including three nail clippers that sit on a windowsill. "It's so I can clip them out the window," he told BI.

Jerome Peel being interviewed on Boy Room.
Peel shares his thoughts on interior design.

"Boy Room" wants to find the messes that can't be faked

Some subjects volunteer to be on the show, while others are recommended by friends. But Coster said they've denied applicants they believed were exaggerating or faking their mess. Even though subjects have some advance notice of when they will be filmed, Coster said a vetting process lets the team find authentic examples.

Take, for example, recent subject Dan, the 25-year-old West Village resident, whose dresser had a layer of dust so thick it turned the pine-colored wood as white as snow.

"The messes we've been leaning into are the ones clearly made over the course of a really long time," she said. "Like the dust on Dan's dresser couldn't possibly have been just put there."

Coster hopes to take the show outside of New York one day, and explore the messes of men in Boston, Philadelphia, or Los Angeles.

"Although," she said, "I kind of suspect everyone in LA is living kind of nice."

Read the original article on Business Insider

Made In Nonstick Frying Pan review: This skillet impressed our testers with its versatility and ergonomic handle

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When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Made in cookware frying pan review 2x1
The MadeIn Nonstick Pan is versatile, built to last, and distributes heat evenly.

Cooking is as much an art as it is a science, and precision comes down to two key elements: heat and surfaces. We all deserve to be using the best cookware that yields tastier food and less clean-up. Made In, a direct-to-consumer kitchen brand, provides the perfect solution for cooks who want to take their cooking to the next level without replacing their entire collection of pots and pans. 

I tested its 10-inch nonstick fry pan in my own kitchen, and it's now the most-used and most-loved pan in my apartment. Read on to find out why Business Insider reviewers love this piece, and how it earned a spot in our guide to the best nonstick pans.

Design and specs

 

Made In's cookware is composed of five layers of bonded stainless steel and aluminum. It's heat resistant up to 500 degrees and is also oven-, and induction-safe. The nonstick pan is available in 8-, 10-, and 12-inch sizes, as well as a set of all three. Though we always recommend hand washing nonstick pans, we did put this one through the dishwasher and didn't notice any change in the surface.

The nonstick coating on Made In's pans is made with FDA-approved PTFE. If you're trying to avoid nonstick products that use PFOAs or PTFE is production, consider the best ceramic nonstick skillet in our guide.

Performance

The Made In Nonstick Frying Pan on stovetop, from the best nonstick pans
The handle has an ergonomic shape that keeps it cool and comfortable in your hand.

I use oil or butter to cook with, but you don't have to use either with this pan. It handles ingredients of all types, from meat and fish to vegetables and sauces, with no sticking, burning, or residue. Other BI testers said that flipping eggs was painless; food slid off the pan without any need for nudging. 

The pan also takes less than a minute to clean, cutting down dishwashing time significantly. You can't go wrong with a good stainless steel fry pan in your kitchen. Stainless steel is lightweight, much easier to clean than cast iron, and won't impart the flavors of past meals that you've cooked. With proper heat management (it's recommended to cook on low to medium heat), your nonstick stainless steel pans will be in good shape for years to come. 

One of our testers, kitchen editor Lily Alig, has put the Made In Pan through its paces for two years now. "The pan is just as nonstick as it was when I first got it, but I have scratched the surface with metal utensils."

What are your alternatives?

We tested 21 skillets to find the best nonstick pans, and Made In earned a spot as our top high-end pick. Made In lost out on the top spot, with the Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Fry Pan as the best overall. These pans are similar in build and price, but the Le Creuset was as close to flawless in our tests as any pan we considered and comes in more sizes. 

If you're looking for a ceramic nonstick coating, the Our Place Always Pan is our favorite ceramic nonstick skillet. The nonstick surface is slick, and the pan is available in eight colors; plus, it comes with a steamer insert and a spatula. A more budget-friendly option is the OXO Ceramic Nonstick Frying Pan. We were impressed by the surface quality, though it takes a while to heat up.

The bottom line

all cookware
Made In Cookware is DTC brand that has earned a top spot in several of our cookware guides.

Made In provides an accessible foray into premium cooking and isn't pretentious about it either. We've tested most of Made In's pots and pans, which you can read reviews of here; the company also sells regular stainless steel frying pans, sauce pans, saute pans, and stock pots.

If you're looking to update your whole collection or just started cooking on an induction cooktop, the Made In Stainless Set is one of the best induction cookware sets. 

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Billionaire investor Ray Dalio says he's owning gold to hedge the risk of debt and inflation crises

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Ray Dalio
  • Ray Dalio says he owns gold partly to hedge against debt and inflation risks.
  • The legendary hedge fund founder cast another warning on rising debt balances around the world.
  • He's warned investors of a US debt crisis, which could push the economy into a balance sheet recession.

Ray Dalio is holding onto gold as a buffer against risks stemming from higher inflation and a potential debt crisis hitting the economy.

The billionaire investor and former Bridgewater Associates CEO has pointed to mounting debt balances around the world, with the US debt notching $34 trillion for the first time ever this year. Debt problems have also plagued China, Japan, and European nations — which poses a big risk for the currencies in those nations, he wrote in a post on LinkedIn this week.

"History and logic show that when there are big risks that the debts will either 1) not be paid back or 2) be paid back with money of depreciated value, the debt and the money become unattractive," Dalio wrote on Thursday.

When nations are deeply indebted, central banks are likely to print out more cash to pay off the debt, he noted, which is itself a problem.

"This prevents a big debt squeeze from happening by devaluing the money (i.e., inflation)," Dalio warned. "Gold, on the other hand, is a non-debt-backed form of money. It's like cash, except unlike cash and bonds, which are devalued by risks of default or inflation, gold is supported by risks of debt defaults and inflation."

That's the main reason Dalio says he has gold in his own investment portfolio, he added, calling it a "good diversifier" against the backdrop of high debt levels. 

Gold has been on a record-setting run in recent weeks. Investors have been keen to buy the precious metal amid the looming risk of recession and inflation remaining stuck at elevated levels, as well as fears of wider geopolitical turmoil out of the Middle East. 

Dalio has sounded the alarm on the US debt balance before. Previously, he warned markets of a coming debt crisis, which could end up sparking a balance sheet recession — a downturn that occurs when people and companies spend money to pay off their debts instead of stimulating the economy.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Why Wall Street is balking at Netflix's decision to stop sharing subscriber data

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Netflix office with mountains in the background
Netflix office with mountains in the background
  • Netflix stock plunged as much as 9% after reporting its first-quarter earnings results.
  • While the streaming giant crushed Wall Street estimates, it made the decision to stop sharing subscriber growth data.
  • The decision "invites worry about the outlook for subscriber growth in '25 and beyond," Pivotal Research said.

Netflix crushed Wall Street estimates on Thursday when it reported its first-quarter earnings results, but investors remained unconvinced.

Shares fell as much as 9% on Friday as investors focused not on the positives from the quarter, but instead on the announcement that Netflix would stop sharing subscriber growth data beginning in 2025. The decision is worrying some who are interpreting the decision as a signal the company is bracing for limited growth in future subscriber additions.

"We view the lack of visibility into these key KPIs as a contributor to the negative after-market stock reaction," Bank of America said. "While still early, the potential concern is subscriber growth had significantly decelerated in 2022 (prior to the implementation of paid sharing), and this could be a harbinger of decelerating subscriber growth in the future."

Here are the key results:

  • Revenue: $9.37 billion, versus analyst estimates of $9.28 billion
  • Earnings per share: $5.28, versus analyst estimates of $4.52
  • Subscriber adds: 9.3 million, versus analyst estimates of 5 million

Netflix also increased its second-quarter revenue and profit guidance. A continued crackdown on password sharing and Netflix's growing advertising business drove the positive results.

The decision to stop sharing subscription numbers "invites worry about the outlook for subscriber growth in '25 and beyond," Pivotal Research analyst Jeffrey Wlodarczak said in a note on Thursday.

But he's not worried at all, and is instead enthusiastic about the results and likened Netflix's subscriber data decision to Apple's decision in 2018 to stop reporting iPhone unit growth.

"We remind investors that AAPL stop disclosing iPhone unit growth in 4Q 2018 and after a short period of stock consolidation the stock materially outperformed the market and we believe while '25+ subscriber growth will slow we still see a long runway for subscriber/ARPU growth going forward," Wlodarczak said.

Wlodarczak raised his Netflix price target to $800, representing potential upside of 41% from current level. That's also the highest price target on Wall Street for Netflix.

"Our view remains unchanged that Netflix has clearly won the streaming wars as evidenced by yet another strong across the board beat and raised guidance, especially relative to its streaming peers, and this is what, in our view, winning looks like," Wlodarczak said.

The key for Netflix going forward is to use its scale to "keep the flywheel going," Wlodarczak said, that way the company can get more leverage over its competitors and content creators, as well as improve its product for consumers.

Netflix stock slightly pared some of its losses on Friday, falling 8.3% as of 11:53 a.m. in New York.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Every outfit Zendaya has worn to promote 'Challengers,' ranked

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A side-by-side of Zendaya in two tennis-themed red carpet dresses.
Zendaya has worn tennis-themed looks throughout her "Challengers" press tour.
  • Zendaya often wears themed outfits when promoting her films. 
  • With styling by Law Roach, Zendaya is rocking tennis-inspired looks for the "Challengers" promo tour. 
  • Her best looks from the tour combine high-fashion silhouettes with nods to the sport.

Zendaya is almost as well-known for her fashion as her acting career, standing out on red carpets and inking lucrative brand deals thanks to her style.

She's been a Bulgari ambassador since 2020, and she furthered her relationship with LVMH by becoming a house brand ambassador for Louis Vuitton in 2023. She kicked off that partnership with a promotional campaign for the brand's Capucines bag, which has since become a status symbol in the luxury fashion world. She's also repeatedly turned to Louis Vuitton for her latest promo tour.

Working with her longtime stylist, Law Roach, Zendaya has continued her tradition of wearing themed looks to promote her upcoming tennis drama "Challengers," which will hit theaters on April 26.

Take a look at the outfits she's worn to promote the movie so far, ranked from least to most stylish.

One of Zendaya's earliest looks from the tour was a relaxed set.

The Elisabetta Franchi look consisted of a blue button-down and relaxed blue-and-white striped shorts, which Zendaya paired with Bulgari jewelry and white Christian Louboutin pumps.

Zendaya looked effortlessly chic in the ensemble, but it wasn't her most memorable look from the tour.

The star looked every bit the tennis player when she attended the BNP Paribas Open.
Iga Swiatek and Zendaya at the BNP Paribas Open in March 2024.
Iga Swiatek and Zendaya at the BNP Paribas Open in March 2024.

Zendaya wore a cream jacket and a pleated, white skirt from Louis Vuitton to watch the BNP Paribas Open alongside Tom Holland.

The collar of the zip-up jacket flared over the star's shoulders, and she wore it open with a white top under it.

White sneakers completed the outfit, which looked like a stylish take on a tennis uniform and helped to set the tone for her promo looks.

Zendaya wore a green set to a photo-call in Paris that subtly nodded to the sport.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" photo call in Paris in April 2024.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" photo-call in Paris in April 2024.

Roach found this vintage Louis Vuitton set Marc Jacobs designed for the brand in 1999 through Moji Farhat Vintage.

Zendaya wore the high-neck jacket mostly unbuttoned, showing her stomach. The high-waisted pants had a relaxed fit and showed off the Louis Vuitton sandals she paired with them.

The yellow-green hue of the outfit made it feel cohesive with her other "Challengers" promo looks.

Her minidress for an appearance on an Italian television show featured a textured hem.
Zendaya appearas on "Che Tempo Che Fa" TV show in Milan in April 2024.
Zendaya appears on "Che Tempo Che Fa" TV show in Milan in April 2024.

16Arlington designed the minidress Zendaya wore on "Che Tempo Che Fa."

The scoop-neck, white dress was simple, hugging Zendaya's figure. But the hem gathered in the center to add some detail to the look.

White pumps from Christian Louboutin completed the ensemble.

Zendaya's white gown for the Paris premiere of "Challengers" featured a statement belt.
Zendaya attends the "Challengers" Paris Premiere in April 2024.
Zendaya attends the "Challengers" Paris premiere in April 2024.

Louis Vuitton artistic director Nicolas Ghesquière custom-designed the white gown Zendaya wore to the Paris premiere of "Challengers."

The strapless dress had a sweetheart neckline and a corset bodice that fell into a dropped waist, accented by a crisscross belt. The tulle skirt had a tiered hem that flowed into a train.

She accented the look with Bulgari jewelry. The outfit was stunning, but Zendaya had more fun with some of the other looks she wore on the tour.

Zendaya combined high fashion with athleticism in a Lacoste look at a photo-call in Australia.

Zendaya's custom Lacoste outfit consisted of a high-neck white top and coordinating high-waisted briefs. A netted, floor-length skirt with a thigh-high slit covered in sparkles sat atop the briefs, giving it a high-fashion feel.

The athletic look of the set and the netting on the skirt made the outfit feel both sporty and stylish.

Zendaya paired the outfit with pointed-toe, white shoes from Louboutin and Bulgari jewelry.

She wore a striped set with a hidden ruffle for a photo-call in London.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" photocall in London in April 2024.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" photo-call in London in April 2024.

Vivienne Westwood designed the coordinating vest and miniskirt Zendaya wore to a London photo-call, which she paired with white pumps.

Both the vest and skirt featured multicolored, vertical stripes. It's easy to picture someone wearing the set to a tennis match, thanks to its clean lines and pastel color scheme. But Zendaya elevated the look by only buttoning it in the center, and the chic ensemble had a touch of whimsy thanks to feathers at the back of the skirt that almost looked like a mini tail.

Zendaya rocked a floor-length skirt at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournament in Monaco.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" photocall at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters in Monaco in April 2024.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" photo-call at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters in Monaco in April 2024.

At a "Challengers" photo-call at the event, Zendaya posed in a sweater and skirt from Brunello Cucinelli.

The knit sweater featured a collar and a patch, while pleats on the floor-length, cream skirt made it look like pants. A slit cut the center of the skirt, spotlighting pointed toe-heels.

Zendaya wore Bulgari jewelry.

The same day, Zendaya wore a white set that made it appear as if she had walked directly off the set of "Challengers" to attend the event.
Zendaya attends the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters in Monaco in April 2024.
Zendaya attends the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters in Monaco in April 2024.

As Law Roach shared on his Instagram, Zendaya's ensemble from On paid homage to Althea Gibson, the first Black tennis player to compete at Wimbledon.

Zendaya wore the white, collared tank top tucked into her dropped-waist skirt, which featured pleats that fanned out around her legs.

Zendaya slipped into a vintage Ralph Lauren blazer for an appearance on "Jimmy Kimmel Live."
Zendaya appears on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" in April 2024.
Zendaya appears on "Jimmy Kimmel Live" in April 2024.

The star turned the double-breasted blazer into a dress, wearing it with a button-down, tie, and pocket square.

She paired it with white pumps. The look referenced "Challengers" more indirectly than some of her other outfits, but it was still high fashion.

Her Vera Wang dress for the LA "Challengers" premiere featured lace detailing.
Zendaya attends the Los Angeles premiere of "Challengers" in April 2024.
Zendaya attends the Los Angeles premiere of "Challengers" in April 2024.

Rather than going for a tennis-inspired look, Roach styled Zendaya in a statement Vera Wang ball gown for the LA premiere.

Much of the gown's corset bodice was made of black, sheer lace, while the dropped-waist skirt was made of sweeping pink and black fabric.

Zendaya looked every bit the movie star as she walked the red carpet.

Zendaya's checked coatdress felt like the perfect combination of on-theme and high fashion.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" Paris photocall at Maison de l'Amerique Latine in April 2024.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" Paris photo-call at Maison de l'Amerique Latine in April 2024.

Roach tapped into Louis Vuitton's archives again for Zendaya's look for a photo-call in Paris amid the "Challengers" promo tour, choosing a coatdress from 2013 designed by Marc Jacobs.

The minidress had a green-and-white checked pattern and green buttons, invoking the colors of a tennis ball.

Zendaya wore the dress buttoned to the collar, giving it an elegant feel that she accented with a white headband, white pumps, and Bulgari jewelry.

She changed into a playful and sexy green gown for an after-party celebrating the film in LA.
Zendaya attends an after-part for the "Challengers" premiere in Los Angeles in April 2024.
Zendaya attends an after-part for the "Challengers" premiere in Los Angeles in April 2024.

The custom Celia Kritharioti gown was neon green, much like a tennis ball.

Its halter neckline plunged to Zendaya's waist, where a literal tennis ball sat in the center of the gown like a three-dimensional appliqué.

A slit cut up the center of the floor-length skirt, mirroring the neckline. The look was fun and offered a whimsical nod to her project.

Zendaya turned a blazer into a red-carpet look for the Rome premiere of "Challengers."
Zendaya attends the Rome premiere of "Challengers" in April 2024.
Zendaya attends the Rome premiere of "Challengers" in April 2024.

Roach styled Zendaya in a custom Calvin Klein two-piece for the Rome premiere, again choosing an all-white look in a nod to tennis attire.

Her look consisted of a high-waisted skirt with a bold slit and a long blazer, which she wore open with no shirt. Zendaya again wore Bulgari jewelry, including a statement necklace, and white Christian Louboutin pumps.

The look was sexy, professional, and glamorous all at once.

The sparkly dress Zendaya wore to a Rome photo-call was cute in and of itself, but the shoes she paired with it elevated the outfit.
Zendaya attends a photo call for "Challengers" in Rome in April 2024.
Zendaya attends a photo-call for "Challengers" in Rome in April 2024.

To kick off the Rome leg of the "Challengers" promo tour, Zendaya rocked custom Loewe from head to toe at a photo-call.

Her sparkly minidress put a high-fashion spin on a tennis uniform silhouette, as the silver piece featured a pleated skirt and a plunging neckline. Black fabric lined the waistline and neckline, adding to the athletic feel.

She wore Bulgari jewelry with the dress, but the highlight of her outfit was her white Loewe pumps with miniature tennis balls on the high heels.

Loewe's creative director, Jonathan Anderson, also served as the costume designer for "Challengers," making the outfit even more fitting.

Zendaya made a vintage Ralph Lauren dress look both fashionable and on theme at a photo-call in Milan.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" photo call in Milan in April 2024.
Zendaya attends a "Challengers" photo-call in Milan in April 2024.

The archival dress was stark white and had a form-fitting bodice.

The collared, halter neckline created an open back, and the skirt flowed out around her thighs much like the silhouette of a traditional tennis skirt.

White pumps elevated the look.

The Loewe dress Zendaya wore to the film's Australia premiere was the perfect way to kick off her tour.
Zendaya attends the Australia premiere of "Challengers" in March 2024.
Zendaya attends the Australia premiere of "Challengers" in March 2024.

For her first red-carpet look of the promo tour, Zendaya wore another custom Loewe look.

The dress, which had a low neckline and a thigh-high slit, took direct inspiration from "Challengers." The silhouette of a tennis player in motion was printed on the sparkly green dress on one side, with a tennis ball floating on the bodice. It was playful and chic, setting the tone for the other outfits Zendaya wore on the tour.

Coordinating, sparkly shoes and Bulgari jewelry tied the outfit together.

Zendaya's Carolina Herrera dress stood out from the pack because of its symbolism.

Amid the tour, Ernesto Casillas photographed Zendaya in a Carolina Herrera dress created by Wes Gordon and styled by Roach.

Zendaya posed in the black-and-white ball gown on a couch, and the look and shoot paid homage to a photo of Venus and Serena Williams in Vogue from 1998.

Zendaya also wore a braided wig from Kim Kimble to match Venus and Serena's hair from the shoot. Ursula Stephen styled Zendaya's hair, and Casillas did her makeup.

Zendaya's custom Thom Browne dress for the "Challengers" UK premiere is arguably her most stylish look of the tour.
Zendaya attends attends the UK Premiere of "Challengers" in April 2024.
Zendaya attends attends the UK Premiere of "Challengers" in April 2024.

Thom Browne custom-designed the white dress Zendaya wore to the UK premiere of "Challengers," which was covered in tennis racket appliques and had red and black stripes on the hemline.

The rackets were the highlight of the gown, but the entire look skillfully celebrated her film while remaining fashion-forward. The dress had a halter neckline with a collar, as well as buttons lining the top of the form-fitting bodice. A belt with a bow clasp sat low on her waist, giving way to a pleated skirt with netting embroidered between the pleats, again nodding to tennis.

Bulgari jewelry and an oversized hair bow sitting atop a long braid in her hair completed Zendaya's look.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Tesla layoffs continue as recruiters get cut

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More Tesla workers were notified their role had been eliminated on Monday night.
Some Tesla workers outside of the US have also been reportedly impacted by layoffs.
  • Tesla informed some of its recruiters on Friday that they'd been laid off, sources told BI.
  • Elon Musk announced a more than 10% headcount reduction on Sunday night.
  • Some Tesla staff learned they'd been laid off shortly after. Another group was notified on Friday.

Tesla layoffs hit its recruiting staff on Friday morning.

Three former Tesla workers confirmed to Business Insider that they had been informed of the layoffs via a call on Friday morning. They requested anonymity as they were not authorized to speak on Tesla's behalf. More former Tesla recruiters have posted on LinkedIn saying they were notified their jobs had been impacted on Friday.

It's unclear how many employees were affected by this round of layoff notices.

The latest layoff notices come after Tesla announced it was laying off more than 10% of its workforce on Sunday night and notified its first round of impacted US employees that same night, according to the two separate emails viewed by Business Insider.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk said in a companywide email on Sunday that there had been a "duplication of roles and job functions in certain areas" due to the company's rapid growth, according to a memo viewed by Business Insider. The billionaire is known for his cost-cutting habits, including cutting X's workforce in half shortly after buying the social media company.

The same day Tesla announced its initial round of cuts at least two executives resigned from the company. SVP of powertrain and electrical engineering Drew Baglino and VP of public policy and business development Rohan Patel said on X they had left Tesla as of Sunday.

The job cuts come as Tesla is facing slower demand for its electric cars. The company's stock is down around 35% year-to-date. Tesla will post its next earnings report on April 23.

The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the layoffs.

Do you work for Tesla or have a tip? Reach out to the reporter via a non-work email and device at gkay@businessinsider.com

Read the original article on Business Insider

Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn broke up after 6 years of dating. Here's a complete timeline of their relationship.

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taylor swift joe alwyn
Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn pictured in 2020.
  • Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn quietly began dating in 2016. Their breakup was reported in early 2023.
  • Despite being a couple for six years, Swift and Alwyn were famously mum about their relationship.
  • Alwyn cowrote six of Swift's songs, which appear on "Folklore," "Evermore," and "Midnights."

To the public's knowledge, Taylor Swift's longest relationship to date was with Joe Alwyn, a British actor best known for roles in "The Favourite" and "Conversations With Friends."

Despite dating for more than six years, Swift and Alwyn were famously mum about their shared life and rarely spotted in public together. Their breakup made headlines in early 2023, in the midst of Swift's blockbuster Eras Tour.

Swift's latest album, "The Tortured Poets Department," seems to offer clues as to why they split.

Keep reading for a complete breakdown of their relationship.

Claudia Willen contributed to a previous version of this article.

May 2, 2016: Swift and Alwyn theoretically meet at the Met Gala.
joe alwyn and taylor swift met gala 2016
Joe Alwyn and Taylor Swift both attended the 2016 Met Gala.

Both Alwyn and Swift attended the 2016 Met Gala, which was themed "Manus X Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology."

At the time, Swift was in a relationship with Calvin Harris, who didn't attend the event. They broke up just one month later.

Fans have speculated that Alwyn caught Swift's eye at the famous gala, based on the lyrics in Swift's 2017 song "Dress."

"Flashback when you met me / Your buzzcut and my hair bleached," she sings. Alwyn showed up to the Met Gala with a shaved head, while Swift paired a platinum-blonde bob with her Louis Vuitton dress.

October 2016: Swift and Alwyn attend the same private Kings of Leon concert in New York City.
Taylor Swift and Dakota Johnson
Taylor Swift and Dakota Johnson were spotted attending a private concert in 2016.

One month after breaking up with Tom Hiddleston, Swift and her friends attended a private Kings of Leon concert at The Bowery Hotel in New York.

A video shared by a fan website revealed that Alwyn was also in attendance, though it remains unclear if the pair interacted inside the closed-door event. 

January 3, 2017: Swift journals that she's been in a secret relationship for three months.
taylor swift
Taylor Swift released "Lover" in 2019.

The singer included photocopied pages of her diary entries with physical copies of her 2019 album "Lover." One excerpt seemed to reference her relationship with Alwyn.

Dated January 3, 2017, Swift wrote, "I'm essentially based in London, hiding out trying to protect us from the nasty world that just wants to ruin things."

"We have been together and no one has found out for 3 months now," she added. "I want it to stay that way because I don't want anything about this to change."

May 2017: News breaks of their relationship.
taylor swift joe alwyn
Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn photographed by paparazzi in 2019.

The Sun broke the news that Swift and Alwyn had been secretly dating for months. 

A source told The Sun that the singer flew to see her British beau in London "via private jets and her security has made it a military-like mission to prevent her from being seen."

The outlet also reported, "She's been walking around with Joe in London using disguises, like scarves and hats, to keep her identity under wraps."

November 10, 2017: Swift releases "Reputation," an album apparently inspired by Alwyn.
taylor swift ready for it music video 89 91
Taylor Swift in the "...Ready For It?" music video.

Since news of their relationship broke, fans began scouring Swift's songs and music videos for Easter eggs that point to Alwyn.

These clues date back to 2017's "Reputation," which Swift described as "an album about finding love throughout all the noise."

For example, the numbers "89" and "91" appear alongside each other in the "...Ready For It?" music video, released as a single on September 17, 2017.

Swift was famously born in 1989. The second number likely stands for 1991, Alwyn's birth year. At one point in the video, Swift also types "21" into a keypad; Alwyn's birthday is February 21.

A similar detail was noticed in the music video for "Delicate," another single from "Reputation." Swift dances in front of a visible sign that reads "Joe's Deli."

Several songs on the album, including "Gorgeous" and "New Year's Day," seem to reference to Alwyn's British accent and "ocean-blue eyes."

October 2017: Swift's close friend Ed Sheeran says he approves of her new relationship.
ed sheeran taylor swift
Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift have been friends since 2012.

The "Shape of You" singer described Alwyn as a "really, really friendly, really good dude" on Capital London's Breakfast Show.

"They are very much in love, they have quite a low-key relationship, which Taylor likes. It's normal, and no one really knows about it right now," he said.

One month later, Alwyn and Swift watched Sheeran perform at London's Jingle Ball. Fans captured videos of the couple slow-dancing to the song "Perfect."

April 2018: Swift performs a cover "September" by Earth, Wind & Fire, which may include a hint about their romance.
taylor swift snl
Taylor Swift performed on "Saturday Night Live" in 2018.

When Swift recorded a cover of "September" as a Spotify exclusive, she tweaked the first line ("Do you remember the 21st night of September?") to say "the 28th night of September."

For an Easter egg enthusiast like Swift, it's hard to imagine this noticeable switch wasn't meant to send a message. Fans have theorized that September 28 was the day Alwyn professed his love to Swift.

In fact, Swift liked a Tumblr post explaining the theory.

May 2018: Alwyn and Swift share solo shots in the same spot.
joe alwyn taylor swift cactus
Joe Alwyn and Taylor Swift shared photos from the same location.

Although Swift and Alwyn have never shared any photos together, they posted near-identical solo shots on Instagram just one day apart.

Swift shared hers on May 7, 2018, writing in the caption: "Today I met a cactus."

The following day, Alwyn shared his photo with just a cactus emoji.

November 2018: Swift promotes Alwyn's movie "The Favourite."
joe alwyn the favourite
Joe Alwyn in "The Favourite."

Alwyn played the role of Baron Masham in the 2018 period drama "The Favourite." Swift hailed the film as "absolutely phenomenal" the day before its release.

She also supported Alwyn leading up to the premiere and accompanied him to the showing at the New York Film Festival in September 2018.

December 2018: Alwyn says it's "flattering" that Swift uses him as inspiration for her music.
joe alwyn taylor swift
Joe Alwyn and Taylor Swift, both pictured in 2018.

Swift has built a reputation as a confessional songwriter, drawing lyrical inspiration from her personal life. Fans believe albums such as "Reputation" and "Lover" contain references to Alwyn — although Swift never explicitly confirms who inspires her songs.

In a 2018 interview with The Sunday Times, the actor was asked if being the subject of his girlfriend's songs bothered him.

"No, not at all. No. It's flattering," he replied.

Earlier that month, he defended their privacy in an interview with Esquire. When asked if he was aware of the challenges that come with dating a superstar, Alwyn said he "didn't seek out advice" before getting involved with Swift.

"I know what I feel about it," he explained. "I think there's a very clear line as to what somebody should share, or feel like they have to share, and what they don't want to and shouldn't have to."

August 23, 2019: Swift releases "Lover," her first album that seems to detail a long-term relationship.
taylor swift
Taylor Swift performed at the 2019 American Music Awards.

In an interview with Vogue, Swift described her seventh album as "a love letter to love, in all of its maddening, passionate, exciting, enchanting, horrific, tragic, wonderful glory."

Although she didn't mention Alwyn by name, much of the album seems inspired by their long-term relationship: "I Think He Knows" describes her attraction to a man with "indigo eyes" and "London Boy" is an explicit declaration of love for a Brit. Both the title track and "Paper Rings" drop hints about wanting to get married.

The album closer "Daylight" is especially revealing. Originally planned as the title track, it reveals how Swift's vision of love had changed from passion and heat to comfort and warmth: "And I can still see it all in my head / Back and forth from New York, sneaking in your bed / I once believed love would be burning red / But it's golden."

February 10, 2019: Swift skips the Grammys to attend a BAFTA after-party with Alwyn instead.
taylor swift joe alwyn
Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn attended a BAFTA party together in 2019.

Swift's "Reputation" was nominated for best pop vocal album at the 2019 Grammys, but she skipped the Los Angeles ceremony to attend the BAFTA Awards after-party in London. ("The Favourite" received seven awards that night.)

Swift congratulated the film's cast in an Instagram post, but Alwyn wasn't pictured.

August 2019: Swift refuses to talk about Alwyn because "our relationship isn't up for discussion."
taylor swift
Taylor Swift attended the 2019 American Music Awards.

Swift steered clear of her relationship with Alwyn during an August 2019 interview with The Guardian.

"I've learned that if I do, people think it's up for discussion, and our relationship isn't up for discussion," she said.

The singer continued, "If you and I were having a glass of wine right now, we'd be talking about it — but it's just that it goes out into the world. That's where the boundary is, and that's where my life has become manageable. I really want to keep it feeling manageable."

January 5, 2020: The couple make a rare public appearance at the Golden Globes.
taylor swift joe alwyn
Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn attended the 2020 Golden Globes.

The couple walked the red carpet separately but sat together at the 2020 Golden Globe Awards.

Swift presented the award for best animated feature film and was nominated for best original song for "Beautiful Ghosts," which was featured in the movie "Cats."

January 31, 2020: Swift's Netflix documentary premieres, featuring a brief scene with Alwyn.
taylor swift joe alwyn miss americana
Taylor Swift hugged Joe Alwyn after one of her shows on the Reputation Stadium Tour.

The Netflix documentary "Taylor Swift: Miss Americana" doesn't focus on Swift's love life, but she does open up about the beginning of her relationship with Alwyn.

"I also was falling in love with someone who had a really wonderfully normal, balanced, grounded life and we decided together that we wanted our relationship to be private," she says. During this scene, a montage plays showing Swift in a series of home videos, but the person filming is never shown.

The camera crew only catches Alwyn in one brief scene, when Swift runs backstage to hug him after a concert on her Reputation Stadium Tour.

February 12, 2020: Swift kisses Alwyn at the NME Awards.
taylor swift nme awards
Taylor Swift won best solo act in the world at the 2020 NME Awards.

Swift and Alwyn didn't walk the 2020 NME Awards carpet, but they did sit next to each other at the show, which took place at the O2 Academy Brixton in London.

A fan seated above Swift and Alwyn recorded several videos of the couple kissing and hugging. When the pop star won the award for best solo act in the world, she embraced the actor and kissed him once again.

April 2020: Alwyn shares photos of Swift's cat in the early stages of the pandemic.
joe alwyn benjamin
Joe Alwyn shared a photo of Taylor Swift's cat, Benjamin Button.

Alwyn provided a rare glimpse into his and Swift's private life by sharing photos of Benjamin Button, one of the pop star's three cats, on his Instagram story. 

Although Swift didn't appear, fans recognized Benjamin from her own social media and took it as confirmation the couple were isolating together.

July 24, 2020: Swift surprise-releases her album "Folklore," which credits Alwyn as a cowriter.
taylor swift folklore
Taylor Swift released "Folklore" on July 24, 2020.

Swift shocked fans by announcing that she'd release her eighth studio album "Folklore" just one day in advance.

Swift began writing the album in April 2020 while she was quarantined with Alwyn. She told fans that she "poured all of my whims, dreams, fears, and musings" into the music, playing with characters and different perspectives to tell emotional stories.

The album is full of songs about heartbreak, fear, and betrayal, including "The 1," "Peace," and "Hoax."

Upon the album's release, fans grew concerned that Swift was drawing inspiration from her relationship with Alwyn to write these devastating tracks.

However, the 11th track is a sweet love song titled "Invisible String," which seems to specifically reference details about Alwyn's life, like his teenage job at a frozen yogurt shop. 

Two songs on the album, "Exile" and "Betty," were credited to a mysterious cowriter named William Bowery. Fans immediately began suspecting that it was a pseudonym for Alwyn, which Swift later confirmed.

"Joe plays piano beautifully, and he's always just playing and making things up and kind of creating things," she revealed in Disney+ film "Folklore: The Long Pond Studio Sessions." 

August 2020: Alwyn and Swift reportedly travel to Utah together.
joe alwyn
Joe Alwyn shared this photo on August 6, 2020.

Alwyn shared an Instagram photo of himself hiking in Utah in August 2020, and Swift immediately liked the post.

Although she wasn't in the photo, a source told E! News that Swift accompanied Alwyn on the trip. 

"Taylor has been based in Nashville, but she just went to Park City, Utah for a few days with Joe," the source said. "They're back in LA."

November 2020: Swift says her relationship with Alwyn allows her to "find bits of normalcy."
taylor swift grammys folklore
Taylor Swift performed at the 2021 Grammys.

For her November 2020 cover story for Rolling Stone, Swift discussed her private relationship in a conversation with Paul McCartney.

"In knowing him and being in the relationship I am in now, I have definitely made decisions that have made my life feel more like a real life and less like just a storyline to be commented on in tabloids," she told McCartney.

Swift added: "Whether that's deciding where to live, who to hang out with, when to not take a picture — the idea of privacy feels so strange to try to explain, but it's really just trying to find bits of normalcy."

When the former Beatle asked if Alwyn sympathizes with the reality of Swift's fame, she replied, "Oh, absolutely."

She also confirmed that "Peace," the penultimate track on "Folklore," is "rooted" in her personal life and relationship with Alwyn. She said the song was inspired by "how scary" it can be to carve out a "human life within a public life," especially when the other person has a "grounded, normal way of living."

"I, oftentimes, in my anxieties, can control how I am as a person and how normal I act and rationalize things, but I cannot control if there are 20 photographers outside in the bushes and what they do and if they follow our car and if they interrupt our lives," she said. "I can't control if there's going to be a fake weird headline about us in the news tomorrow."

December 11, 2020: Swift releases "Evermore," featuring more songwriting collaborations with Alwyn.
taylor swift joe alwyn evermore
Taylor Swift released "Evermore" on December 11, 2020.

When Swift announced her second surprise album of 2020, she told fans that many of the same collaborators from "Folklore" helped craft "Evermore" — one of them being Alwyn. 

The actor is credited (under the same pseudonym) on three "Evermore" tracks: "Champagne Problems," "Coney Island," and "Evermore."

He later said that writing songs with his girlfriend in quarantine was "as basic as some people made sourdough."

"It was completely off the cuff, an accident," Alwyn told Vulture. "She said, 'Can we try and sit down and get to the end together?' And so we did."

January 2021: The couple is spotted holding hands in London.
joe taylor
Joe Alwyn and Taylor Swift were rarely seen out together.

Swift and Alwyn made a rare public outing together in early January 2021, taking a stroll through North London Public Park with the actor's mother, Elizabeth Alwyn. 

The couple held hands, and all three individuals wore masks, as seen in a photograph published by E! News

An anonymous source told the outlet that Swift has been splitting her time between England and Nashville during the pandemic.

"She is back and forth between Nashville and England spending time with her family and with Joe's family. They take walks in the neighborhood and go on hikes to get fresh air," they said, adding that Alwyn often "comes along."

March 2021: Alwyn supports Swift when she calls out a sexist joke.
taylor swift ginny georgia netflix
Taylor Swift criticized the Netflix show "Ginny & Georgia."

On the Netflix show "Ginny & Georgia," a teenager tells her mother that she goes "through men faster than Taylor Swift." 

After fans took notice of the line in March 2021, which many considered misogynistic, "RESPECT TAYLOR SWIFT" began trending on Twitter.

The musician responded directly, slamming the joke as "lazy" and "deeply sexist" on Twitter

"How about we stop degrading hard working women by defining this horse shit as FuNnY. Also, @netflix after Miss Americana this outfit doesn't look cute on you," she wrote, adding a broken-heart emoji. "Happy Women's History Month I guess."

Alwyn, who hadn't liked a tweet since November 2020, returned to the social media platform to cosign Swift's message.

March 14, 2021: Swift thanks Alwyn during her Grammys acceptance speech.
taylor swift grammys
Taylor Swift was nominated for six awards at the 63rd annual Grammys.

Swift thanked Alwyn in her acceptance speech after "Folklore" won album of the year at the 2021 Grammy Awards, making her the first woman to win the award three times.

"Joe, who is the first person that I play every single song that I write, and I had the best time writing songs with you in quarantine," she said onstage.

Summer 2021: Swift spends time with Alwyn on set in Ireland.
taylor swift midnights alt vinyl cover
Taylor Swift released "Midnights" on October 21, 2022.

Alwyn's Hulu show "Conversations With Friends" was largely filmed in Dublin, but in July 2021, Alwyn was photographed with his costar Alison Oliver in Bray, a coastal town in the Irish county Wicklow.

Alwyn stars in the adaptation alongside Oliver, Jemima Kirke, and Sasha Lane. While the four actors filmed the 12-episode series, Swift visited the set and spent time with them, Kirke explained during an interview with iNews.

"We all became very close: Joe, me, Sasha, Alison and Taylor — we all became each other's pod," the former "Girls" star explained.

Swift seemed to confirm this in her 2022 song "Sweet Nothing," which was cowritten by Alwyn.

"I spy with my little tired eye / Tiny as a firefly / A pebble that we picked up last July," she sings in the first verse. "Down deep inside your pocket / We almost forgot it / Does it ever miss Wicklow sometimes?"

February 2022: Alwyn says he's "happy in a monogamous relationship."
conversations with friends
"Conversations With Friends" premiered on Hulu in May 2022.

In "Conversations With Friends," Hulu's adaptation of Sally Rooney's debut novel, Alwyn plays Nick, a married actor that has an affair with a college student.

Alwyn discussed the limited series during a media presentation at the Cable and Television Association for Marketing in February 2022. When asked to share his personal opinion on open relationships, the actor responded by saying that such an arrangement seems "exhausting" but also reasoned, "people can do what they want and makes them happy."

He added: "I'm obviously happy in a monogamous relationship."

April 2022: Once again, the actor defends the couple's privacy.
joe alwyn
Joe Alwyn attended a London screening of "Conversations With Friends."

During an interview with Elle UK to promote "Conversations With Friends," Alwyn spoke about his decision to keep his relationship with Swift removed from the public sphere

Alwyn told the magazine that "it's not really" because he wants "to be guarded and private, it's more a response to something else."

"We live in a culture that is so increasingly intrusive," the actor continued. "The more you give — and frankly, even if you don't give it — something will be taken."

May 9, 2022: Alwyn declines to confirm rumors of their engagement.
joe alwyn taylor swift 2022
Joe Alwyn and Taylor Swift have yet to walk a red carpet together.

During an interview with Vulture, Alwyn declined to confirm speculation that he and Swift were engaged or already married.

"The truth is, if I had a pound coin for every time someone told me I've been engaged or I'm getting engaged, I would have a lot of pound coins," he said. "If the answer was yes, I wouldn't say. If the answer is no, I wouldn't say."

May 15, 2022: Swift publicly supports Alwyn's career.
taylor swift
Taylor Swift photographed on June 11, 2022 in New York City.

When "Conversations With Friends" premiered, Swift shared Time's review of the show on her Instagram and wrote that she "can confirm it's phenomenal."

October 7, 2022: Swift references her relationship with Alwyn while teasing her single "Lavender Haze."
taylor swift lavender haze music video
Swift in the music video for "Lavender Haze."

Ahead of its release, Swift shared a video of herself explaining the inspiration behind her "Midnights" single "Lavender Haze." (It has since been deleted.)

According to the singer, "Lavender Haze" was a "common phrase" used in the '50s to describe being in love.

"That meant you were in that all-encompassing love glow," she said. "Theoretically, when you're in the lavender haze, you'll do anything to stay there."

"I think a lot of people have to deal with this now, not just 'public figures,' because we live in the era of social media," Swift added. "If the world finds out that you're in love with somebody, they're going to weigh in on it."

She added that during her six-year relationship, they've had to ignore "weird rumors, tabloid stuff" in order to "protect the real stuff."

In the song, Swift reveals that she was referring to speculation that she and Alwyn are engagedsecretly married, or planning to have children. ("No deal, that 1950s shit they want from me," she sings.)

The music video also seems to contain several nods to Alwyn, including a vinyl cover bearing the constellation for Pisces, his zodiac sign.

October 21, 2022: Swift releases "Midnights," which includes another song cowritten with Alwyn.
taylor swift midnights press photo
Swift photographed for "Midnights."

Swift said her 10th album contains real details about "sleepless nights scattered throughout my life," immediately distinguishing "Midnights" as more autobiographical than "Folklore" and "Evermore."

The 12th track, "Sweet Nothing," was cowritten by Swift and Alwyn, who is once again credited under the pen name William Bowery.

The lyrics seem to explore tender moments in their relationship, referencing their 2021 trip to Wicklow in the first verse and praising Alwyn's laid-back attitude in the chorus.

Swift uses the common phrase "sweet nothings" as a double entendre; it's typically used to describe the whisperings of a lover, but Swift also uses it to illustrate that her relationship is quiet and nondemanding ("You're in the kitchen humming / All that you ever wanted from me was sweet nothing").

April 8, 2023: Multiple outlets report Swift and Alwyn's breakup.
taylor swift joe alwyn
Taylor Swift and Joe Alwyn dated for more than six years.

After six years together, Swift and Alwyn went their separate ways.

Entertainment Tonight broke the news while Swift was on the road for The Eras Tour. People and Page Six later confirmed the report.

According to ET, the couple split a few weeks prior. Its source described their breakup as amicable, adding, "It was not dramatic."

"The relationship had just run its course. It's why [Alwyn] hasn't been spotted at any shows," the source said.

Representatives for Swift and Alwyn didn't respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

May 2023: Swift releases the "Midnights" vault track "You're Losing Me," which fans believe was inspired by Alwyn.
taylor swift eras tour brazil
Taylor Swift performs during The Eras Tour in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

Less than two months after the breakup made headlines, Swift announced she'd be releasing more music from the "Midnights" era, including a song that was cut from the original tracklist entitled "You're Losing Me."

The lyrics describe two lovers who are drifting apart and unable to communicate. Swift criticizes her muse for ignoring her sadness and neglecting her needs, which culminates in the song's unvarnished bridge: "I wouldn't marry me either / A pathological people pleaser / Who only wanted you to see her."

The song's producer, Jack Antonoff, later revealed that Swift wrote "You're Losing Me" in December 2021, when she was still publicly dating Alwyn.

In retrospect, fans wonder if "Midnights" hinted at cracks in their relationship.

The album includes songs like "Midnight Rain" and "Bejeweled," which depict Swift as an ambitious, untethered woman. In the latter's music video, Swift declines a wedding proposal and ends up alone in her castle.

The album's extended "3am Edition" also concludes with "Dear Reader," an intimate ballad about Swift's lonely experience with fame. She sings of returning to "a house, not a home, all alone 'cause nobody's there," adding, "No one sees when you lose when you're playing solitaire."

April 19, 2024: Swift releases "The Tortured Poets Department," which may contain clues about her split from Alwyn.
taylor swift the tortured poets department press photo the bolter
Taylor Swift released "The Tortured Poets Department" on April 19, 2024.

Swift's 11th studio album, "The Tortured Poets Department," contains some of her most uninhibited and forthright lyricism to date.

As usual, Swift has kept the identities of her muses private. But two songs, "So Long, London" and "Loml," appear to be most inspired by Swift's relationship with Alwyn.

"So Long, London" is likely intended as a sequel to "London Boy," an upbeat love song released in 2019 after Swift relocated to the English city.

Swift's new song explores how a familiar place, once so precious, can grow sinister over time. Likewise, a comfortable relationship can grow complacent and resentful. ("You swore that you loved me, but where were the clues? / I died on the altar waiting for the proof.")

"Loml" is similarly preoccupied with erosion. As Swift rehashes the relationship in question, the titular phrase "love of my life" gradually becomes "loss of my life."

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From a jar of oysters to two spiders, these are the 10 weirdest things left in Ubers in 2023

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Lost uber items
Riders left a lot of weird stuff in their Ubers in 2023.
  • Every year, Uber publishes a its Lost & Found Index about items left behind by riders.
  • Last year, more people contacted their driver about a lost item on January 21 than on any other day.
  • Here are some of the weirdest items forgotten in Ubers in 2023.

Whether it's a pair of sunglasses, a favorite lip balm, or a jacket, almost everyone has left something behind in an Uber before.

According to Uber's annual lost and found index, riders in Miami were the most "forgetful" last year, helping the city claim the No. 1 spot from Jacksonville, 2022's winner (also in Florida). Los Angeles and Atlanta took the next two most-forgetful city spots.

For some reason, riders were especially lax on January 21.

And while it's not surprising that clothing was the No. 1 item left behind in 2023 in the US, Uber's recap also mentioned some, shall we say, more unique items that drivers discovered last year.

Among those strange findings were a framed Taylor Swift autograph and an entire Jeep Liberty engine.

While the longer list contains some doozies (a paternity test, anyone?), here are 10 of the weirdest items Uber said riders reported they lost in 2023:

  1. Frontal hair toupee

  2. Hot sauce and a breathalyzer

  3. "I left a leaf in your car that's much needed"

  4. Two containers with spiders in them

  5. A Beyoncé fold up fan

  6. A tray of meat pie

  7. Ceramic cat

  8. Jar of oysters

  9. "A personalized blanket with a picture of me and my dog"

  10. Small rat skeleton prop

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These House Republicans want to boot Mike Johnson from the speakership

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Reps. Paul Gosar (left) and Thomas Massie (right) have signed onto Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's motion to vacate.
Reps. Paul Gosar (left) and Thomas Massie (right) have signed onto Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's motion to vacate.
  • Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene filed a "motion to vacate" against Speaker Mike Johnson in March.
  • She argues that Johnson has betrayed the GOP, in part by allowing more Ukraine aid to pass.
  • Since then, more Republicans have signed onto her effort, but Democrats could protect Johnson.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene doesn't think Mike Johnson deserves his job anymore. She's no longer alone.

The Georgia congresswoman is getting back-up on the so-called "motion to vacate" she filed against the GOP speaker of the House in March: two more Republicans signed on this week.

These GOP lawmakers argue Johnson is betraying his party, first by passing compromise government funding bills that were not sufficiently hard-right and now by working with Democrats to pass more aid to Ukraine.

But the circumstances are far different from October, when then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy was ousted via a motion to vacate for the first time in American history.

That effort, led by Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida and supported by 7 of his colleagues, was only successful because every single House Democrat voted for it. Democrats loathed McCarthy, and the ex-speaker did little to incentivize them to protect him from Gaetz's effort.

This time, several Democrats have indicated they're willing to protect Johnson — likely by voting to table Greene's motion — if he passes Ukraine aid, as he plans to do on Saturday.

Greene has not yet forced a vote on her resolution, and it's unclear when she will. If Democrats were to vote for her resolution, she now has enough votes to oust Johnson.

It's unclear who would succeed the Louisiana Republican, and the House could be thrown back into weeks of chaos if Greene is successful.

Mike Johnson
Mike Johnson.

Here are the Republicans who want to fire Johnson

Marjorie Taylor Greene: The Georgia congresswoman filed her motion at the end of March, the day that the House approved a government funding bill that she hated. She has since taken to blasting Johnson on a nearly daily basis on social media.

Thomas Massie: The Kentucky congressman announced in a conference meeting this week that he would be cosponsoring Greene's motion. An idiosyncratic libertarian who's used to taking lonely positions, Massie is upset with Johnson for numerous reasons, including approving foreign aid and pushing through a bill that re-authorizes government spy powers.

Paul Gosar: The Arizona congressman signed onto Greene's motion Friday to protest Johnson's move to approve more Ukraine aid, saying in a statement: "We need a Speaker who puts America first rather than bending to the reckless demands of the warmongers, neo-cons and the military-industrial complex."

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Cuts could cost thousands of US soldiers their education benefits

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U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, set conditions to start operations at Dillingham Army Airfield, Hawaii, Oct 27, 2023.
A US Army soldier assigned to 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, helps set conditions to start operations at Dillingham Army Airfield, Hawaii, in October 2023.
  • The US Army is contemplating reducing financial aid programs that encourage education.
  • Budget cuts to two major financial aid programs could affect over 100,000 soldiers.
  • Talks of budget cuts coincide with a time where Army recruitment is falling short of its goals.

The US Army is considering making reductions to two key financial assistance programs that promote higher education, something which has long been a selling point for military service.

Potential budget cuts to the Army's Credential Assistance and Tuition Assistance programs could impact over 100,000 soldiers, policy experts recently told Inside Higher Education.

Army Secretary Christine Wormuth told the House of Representatives last week that budget changes may be made as the program has become a "catastrophic success," explaining that the program has become widely popular but costly for the Army.

"The challenge we have is we really, frankly, didn't put any guardrails around the program to help us scope it," she said.

Altogether, these programs cost the Army roughly $278 million in 2023.

The Credential Assistance program provides soldiers with $4,000 dollars a year going toward earning various certifications, and the Tuition Assistance program allows active-duty service members to receive $250 per hour of credit.

Wormuth emphasized that she wants to keep these programs but believes the number of credits and certifications soldiers can receive should be capped to manage costs. The qualifications making troops eligible for these programs could also be tightened as another solution.

"Those kinds of guardrails are very similar to what our sister services have done in the Air Force and the Navy," she said. "We obviously want to keep them. That's our number one goal, is to keep everybody. But how we transition them is critically important."

The Army is thoroughly reviewing the program, a service spokesperson told Business Insider, explaining that "we must implement the programs in a way that not only maximizes the benefit for our Soldiers, but also puts rules in place that ensure the responsible stewardship of resources and continued program viability."

Talks of budget cuts come at a time where recruiting for the Army is notably struggling. In 2023, the Army fell about 10,000 soldiers short of its 65,000-person goal.

Will Hubbard, the vice president for veterans and military policy at Veterans Education Success, an organization advocating to protect military and veteran benefits, told Inside Higher Education that these benefits "serve a long-term purpose of being valuable both to the individual and the Service, and therefore, any cuts to this program, now or in the future, would be met with strong opposition."


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Taylor Swift's name is popping up on Wall Street earnings calls thanks to her massive impact on the US economy

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taylor swift
A close-up of Taylor Swift's jewelry at the Super Bowl.
  • Taylor Swift's impact on the economy is having a positive impact on individual companies.
  • Swift's name has been popping up on Wall Street earnings calls recently, often referencing how she's helped business performance.
  • Detailed below are five times Swift has been mentioned by companies in recent months.

Taylor Swift's impact on the US economy started to become clear last year during the middle of her incredibly popular Era's Tour, and the impact has spilled over to the bottom line for individual companies.

Swift's 60-show tour across the US generated a record $1.04 billion in sales, with a total 4.3 million tickets sold at an average price of $238.95. And now fans are listening to today's release of her new album, "The Tortured Poets Department. 

The knock-on effect of that tour led to a surge in hotel bookings in certain cities, which even caught the attention of the Federal Reserve.

Individual companies are starting to take notice too, with several mentioning Swift on Wall Street earnings calls in recent months to help explain the underlying strength of their business performance.

These are the five times Swift has been mentioned on Wall Street recently:

1. Lyft
Lyft app.

"Fans flocked to stadiums, with these rides growing by more than 35% year-over-year, driven by high-attendance stadium events including Taylor Swift and Beyonce concerts," Lyft said in its fourth-quarter earnings report in February.

2. AMC Entertainment
AMC Entertainment

"What is particularly noteworthy is how much AMC benefited from our trailblazing industry leading efforts with our highly successful distribution of two concert movies TAYLOR SWIFT | THE ERAS TOUR and RENAISSANCE: A FILM BY BEYONCÉ," AMC Entertainment CEO Adam Aron said in the company's fourth-quarter earnings report in February.

"All of that increase in AMC's Revenue and EBITDA is attributable to our having shown these two movies in our theatres in the U.S. and internationally," Aron said. 

3. Disney
Disney+ logo on Chromecast menu displayed on a TV screen and Chromecast remote control are seen in this illustration photo taken in Krakow, Poland on July 19, 2023.
Disney+

"Over the past year, we've all witnessed the creative genius and sheer power of a true cultural phenomenon Taylor Swift," Disney CEO Bob Iger said on the company's first-quarter earnings call in February.

Disney secured the exclusive streaming rights to Taylor Swift's Eras Tour concert movie for Disney+.

"We know audiences are going to absolutely love the chance to relive the electrifying Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (Taylor's Version) whenever they want on Disney+," Iger said. 

4. National Bank Holdings
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift Super Bowl
Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift embrace after the Super Bowl LVIII at Allegiant Stadium.

"In terms of markets, I'm really proud of our team and the Midwest based out of Kansas City. We've seen really nice growth coming out of that market. We've historically described that market as kind of middle of the road solid player, but that's a market that's really stepped up," National Bank Holdings CEO Timothy Laney said on his company's fourth-quarter earnings call in January.

"I jokingly say, I think it's got something to do with Taylor Swift and the Chiefs, but there is momentum int hat market that we're benefiting from," Laney said. 

5. Live Nation
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift performs at Accor Stadium on February 23, 2024, in Sydney.

"Every 18 and 16 year-old in the world that has a TikTok wants to see Drake and Taylor Swift. We think we're at the start of a new revolution," Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino said, according to CNBC. 

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People keep stealing heavy equipment from Home Depot's rental department and selling it on Facebook

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The rental department at Home Depot.
The rental department at Home Depot.
  • Federal prosecutors in Oregon have brought charges against seven defendants conspiracy to defraud Home Depot.
  • The complaint says the group rented equipment from the retailer using stolen credit card numbers.
  • Instead of returning the items, prosecutors say the crew sold it on Facebook and other marketplaces.

Home Depot's rental department continues to battle the theft of its heavy equipment in schemes where suspects sell the machinery on sites like Facebook Marketplace, prosecutors allege.

Earlier this month, federal prosecutors in Oregon brought charges against a group of seven defendants, accusing them of conspiring in a scheme in which they stole heavy machinery from Home Depot by renting it and not returning it.

According to the indictment, first reported by Court Watch, members of the group would go to the retailer's rental desk at locations in Oregon, Washington, and Colorado to borrow the equipment using stolen credit and debit card information.

Prosecutors also said the defendants would "often use their real driver's license" for the required identification.

But rather than return the equipment, the defendants instead sold it on Facebook Marketplace and other online platforms, according to the court documents.

In each instance, the equipment was borrowed under a one-day rental, GPS tracking devices were disabled, and items were listed for sale on Facebook and elsewhere, the prosecutors said.

The thefts bear a striking resemblance to several cases in the past year, one in Washington, and two in Florida.

In one, Florida prosecutors sentenced a man to eight years in prison for leading a crime ring that rented more than 60 pieces of heavy equipment, such as trenchers, stump grinders, and excavators, which were never returned, costing Home Depot more than $1 million.

Officials said he too used his actual ID when borrowing equipment, the local Fox affiliate reported.

And just last month, Florida's Attorney General brought charges against another man in a strikingly similar scheme that involved 21 pieces of equipment and cost Home Depot more than $460,000.

Beyond the rental desk, Home Depot and other retailers have been raising the alarm in recent years over theft, which cost the industry an estimated $41 billion in 2022.

In response to shoplifters, the home improvement retailer, in particular, has turned to measures including locked-up displays and power tools that won't work unless they've been activated at purchase.

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All 67 songs that Taylor Swift has written by herself

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taylor swift eras tour
Taylor Swift performs during The Eras Tour in Melbourne.
  • Taylor Swift has been writing songs since she was a teenager.
  • More than 60 tracks credit Swift as the sole writer, which means she composed the lyrics and melody alone.
  • These include five tracks from Swift's latest album "The Tortured Poets Department."
"The Outside"
taylor swift stagecoach 2008
"The Outside" is the sixth track on "Taylor Swift."

Best lyrics: "I tried to take the road less traveled by / But nothing seems to work the first few times."

"Should've Said No"
taylor swift
Taylor Swift performs at the 2008 ACM Awards.

Best lyrics: "I should've been there, in the back of your mind / I shouldn't be asking myself why / You shouldn't be begging for forgiveness at my feet / You should've said no / Baby, and you might still have me."

"Our Song"
taylor swift our song music video
"Our Song" was released as a single in 2007.

Best lyrics: "Our song is the slamming screen door / Sneaking out late, tapping on your window / When we're on the phone and you talk real slow / 'Cause it's late and your mama don't know."

"Christmas Must Be Something More"
taylor swift
"Christmas Must Be Something More" is the fifth track on "The Taylor Swift Holiday Collection."

Best lyrics: "What if ribbons and bows didn't mean a thing? / Would the song still survive without five golden rings?"

"Beautiful Eyes"
taylor swift beautiful eyes ep
"Beautiful Eyes" is the first track on Swift's "Beautiful Eyes" EP.

Best lyrics: "I wake up, I'm alive / In only a little while, I'll cry."

"I Heart ?"
taylor swift
"I Heart ?" is the sixth track on "Beautiful Eyes."

Best lyrics: "Wake up and smell the breakup / Fix my heart, put on my makeup / Another mess I didn't plan."

"Fifteen"
taylor swift fifteen music video
"Fifteen" was released as a single in 2009.

Best lyrics: "Back then, I swore I was gonna marry him someday / But I realized some bigger dreams of mine / And Abigail gave everything she had / To a boy who changed his mind / And we both cried."

"Love Story"
taylor swift love story
"Love Story" was released as a single in 2008.

Best lyrics: "Romeo, save me, they're trying to tell me how to feel / This love is difficult, but it's real."

"Hey Stephen"
Taylor Swift performs during the Fearless Tour at Madison Square Garden on August 27, 2009 in New York City.
"Hey Stephen" is the fourth track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Hey Stephen, I could give you 50 reasons / Why I should be the one you choose / All those other girls, well, they're beautiful / But would they write a song for you?"

"You're Not Sorry"
taylor swift fearless tour
"You're Not Sorry" is the ninth track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "You had me crawling for you, honey, and it never would've gone away, no / You used to shine so bright, but I watched all of it fade."

"Forever & Always"
taylor swift fearless tour
"Forever & Always" is the 11th track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Was I out of line? / Did I say something way too honest, made you run and hide / Like a scared little boy? / I looked into your eyes / Thought I knew you for a minute, now I'm not so sure."

"The Best Day"
taylor swift andrea swift mom
"The Best Day" is the 12th track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "And now I know why all the trees change in the fall / I know you were on my side even when I was wrong / And I love you for giving me your eyes / For staying back and watching me shine."

"Change"
taylor swift fearless tour
"Change" is the 13th track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "We're getting stronger now, find things they never found / They might be bigger but we're faster and never scared."

"Jump Then Fall"
taylor swift fearless tour
"Jump Then Fall" is the 14th track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "The bottom's gonna drop out from under our feet / I'll catch you, I'll catch you / When people say things that bring you to your knees / I'll catch you / The time is gonna come when you're so mad you could cry / But I'll hold you through the night until you smile."

"The Other Side of the Door"
Taylor Swift performs during the Fearless Tour at Madison Square Garden on August 27, 2009 in New York City.
"The Other Side of the Door" is the 19th track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "With your face and the beautiful eyes / And the conversation with the little white lies / And the faded picture of a beautiful night / You carried me from your car up the stairs / And I broke down crying, was she worth this mess? / After everything and that little black dress / After everything, I must confess / I need you."

"Today Was a Fairytale"
taylor swift fearless tour
"Today Was a Fairytale" is the 20th track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Can you feel this magic in the air? / It must have been the way you kissed me."

"Mr. Perfectly Fine"
taylor swift eras tour
"Mr. Perfectly Fine" is the 22nd track on "Fearless (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "So dignified in your well-pressed suit / So strategized, all the eyes on you / Sashay your way to your seat / It's the best seat, in the best room."

"Mine"
taylor swift mine music video
"Mine" was released as a single in 2010.

Best lyrics: "You made a rebel of a careless man's careful daughter."

"Sparks Fly"
taylor swift sparks fly music video
"Sparks Fly" was released as a single in 2011.

Best lyrics: "Get me with those green eyes, baby, as the lights go down / Give me something that'll haunt me when you're not around."

"Back to December"
taylor swift back to december music video
"Back to December" was released as a single in 2010.

Best lyrics: "And then the cold came, the dark days / When fear crept into my mind / You gave me all your love and all I gave you was goodbye."

"Speak Now"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Speak Now" is the fourth track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "She floats down the aisle like a pageant queen / But I know you wish it was me / You wish it was me, don't you?"

"Dear John"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Dear John" is the fifth track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "All the girls that you've run dry have tired lifeless eyes / 'Cause you burned them out / But I took your matches before fire could catch me / So don't look now / I'm shining like fireworks over your sad empty town."

"Mean"
taylor swift mean music video
"Mean" was released as a single in 2011.

Best lyrics: "I bet you got pushed around / Somebody made you cold / But the cycle ends right now / 'Cause you can't lead me down that road / And you don't know what you don't know."

"The Story of Us"
taylor swift the story of us music video
"The Story of Us" was released as a single in 2011.

Best lyrics: "I'd tell you I miss you, but I don't know how / I've never heard silence quite this loud."

"Never Grow Up"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Never Grow Up" is the eighth track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Remember the footsteps, remember the words said / And all your little brother's favorite songs / I just realized everything I have is, someday, gonna be gone."

"Enchanted"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Enchanted" is the ninth track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Please don't be in love with someone else / Please don't have somebody waiting on you."

"Better than Revenge"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Better than Revenge" is the 10th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "She looks at life like it's a party and she's on the list / She looks at me like I'm a trend and she's so over it / I think her ever-present frown is a little troubling / She thinks I'm psycho 'cause I like to rhyme her name with things."

"Innocent"
taylor swift 2010 vmas
"Innocent" is the 11th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Time turns flames to embers / You'll have new Septembers / Every one of us has messed up too / Minds change like the weather / I hope you remember / Today is never too late to be brand new."

"Haunted"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Haunted" is the 12th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Oh, holding my breath / Won't see you again / Something keeps me holding onto nothing."

"Last Kiss"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Last Kiss" is the 13th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "So I'll watch your life in pictures like I used to watch you sleep / And I feel you forget me like I used to feel you breathe / And I'll keep up with our old friends / Just to ask them how you are."

"Long Live"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Long Live" is the 14th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "And the cynics were outraged / Screaming, 'This is absurd' / 'Cause for a moment, a band of thieves in ripped-up jeans / Got to rule the world."

"Ours"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Ours" is the 15th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Don't you worry your pretty little mind / People throw rocks at things that shine."

"Superman"
taylor swift speak now tour
"Superman" is the 16th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Something in his deep brown eyes has me saying / He's not all bad like his reputation / And I can't hear one single word they say / And you'll leave, got places to be and I'll be OK."

"Electric Touch" (featuring Fall Out Boy)
taylor swift patrick stump fall out boy
"Electric Touch" is the 17th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "I've gotten used to no one calling my phone / I've grown accustomed to sleeping alone / Still, I know that all it takes is to get it right / Just one time, just one time."

"When Emma Falls in Love"
taylor swift eras tour
"When Emma Falls in Love" is the 18th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "She's the kind of book that you can't put down / Like if Cleopatra grew up in a small town."

"I Can See You"
taylor swift i can see you music video
"I Can See You" is the 19th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "They keep watchful eyes on us / So it's best that we move fast and keep quiet / You won't believe half the things I see inside my head / Wait 'til you see half the things that haven't happened yet."

"Castles Crumbling" (featuring Hayley Williams)
taylor swift hayley williams
"Castles Crumbling" is the 20th track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Power went to my head and I couldn't stop / Ones I loved tried to help, so I ran them off / And here I sit alone behind walls of regret / Falling down like promises that I never kept."

"Foolish One"
taylor swift eras tour
"Foolish One" is the 21st track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "'Cause you got her on your arm and me in the wings / I'll get your longing glances, but she'll get your ring / And you will say you had the best of intentions / And maybe I will finally learn my lesson."

"Timeless"
taylor swift eras tour
"Timeless" is the 22nd track on "Speak Now (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "That's when I came upon a book covered in cobwebs / Story of a romance torn apart by fate / Hundreds of years ago, they fell in love, like we did / And I'd die for you in the same way, if I first saw your face /In the 1500s off in a foreign land / And I was forced to marry another man / You still would've been mine."

"Eyes Open"
taylor swift safe and sound music video
"Eyes Open" was included on the soundtrack "The Hunger Games: Songs from District 12 and Beyond."

Best lyrics: "So here you are, two steps ahead and staying on guard / Every lesson forms a new scar / They never thought you'd make it this far."

"State of Grace"
taylor swift red tour
"State of Grace" is the first track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Love is a ruthless game, unless you play it good and right."

"Red"
taylor swift red tour
"Red" is the second track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Loving him is like driving a new Maserati down a dead-end street / Faster than the wind, passionate as sin / Ending so suddenly."

"I Almost Do"
taylor swift red tour
"I Almost Do" is the seventh track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "I bet it never, ever occurred to you / That I can't say hello to you and risk another goodbye."

"Stay Stay Stay"
taylor swift red tour
"Stay Stay Stay" is the ninth track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "All those times that you didn't leave, it's been occurring to me / I'd like to hang out with you for my whole life."

"Holy Ground"
taylor swift red tour
"Holy Ground" is the 11th track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Took off faster than a green light, go / Hey, you skip the conversation when you already know / I left a note on the door with a joke we'd made / And that was the first day."

"Sad Beautiful Tragic"
taylor swift red tour
"Sad Beautiful Tragic" is the 12th track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "And time is taking its sweet time erasing you / And you've got your demons, and darling, they all look like me."

"The Lucky One"
taylor swift red tour
"The Lucky One" is the 13th track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "And they tell you that you're lucky, but you're just so confused / 'Cause you don't feel pretty, you just feel used / And all the young things line up to take your place."

"Starlight"
taylor swift red tour
"Starlight" is the 15th track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "I said, 'Oh, my, what a marvelous tune' / It was the best night, never would forget how we moved."

"Begin Again"
taylor swift begin again music video
"Begin Again" was released as a single in 2012.

Best lyrics: "I've been spending the last eight months / Thinking all love ever does is break and burn and end / But on a Wednesday, in a café, I watched it begin again."

"The Moment I Knew"
taylor swift red tour
"The Moment I Knew" is the 17th track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "What do you say when tears are streaming down your face in front of everyone you know? / And what do you do when the one who means the most to you is the one who didn't show?"

"Girl at Home"
taylor swift red tour
"Girl at Home" is the 19th track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Call a cab, lose my number / You're about to lose your girl."

"Better Man"
taylor swift eras tour
"Better Man" is the 22nd track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "But your jealousy, oh I can hear it now / Talking down to me like I'd always be around / Push my love away like it was some kind of loaded gun / Oh, you never thought I'd run."

"Nothing New" (featuring Phoebe Bridgers)
taylor swift phoebe bridgers eras tour
"Nothing New" is the 23rd track on "Red (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "I know someday I'm gonna meet her, it's a fever dream / The kind of radiance you only have at 17 / She'll know the way and then she'll say she got the map from me / I'll say I'm happy for her, then I'll cry myself to sleep."

"This Love"
taylor swift 1989 tour
"This Love" is the 11th track on "1989 (Taylor's Version)."

Best lyrics: "Clear blue water / High tide came and brought you in / And I could go on and on, on and on, and I will."

"Lover"
taylor swift lover music video
"Lover" was released as a single in 2019.

Best lyrics: "My heart's been borrowed and yours has been blue / All's well that ends well to end up with you / Swear to be overdramatic and true."

"Cornelia Street"
taylor swift city of lover
"Cornelia Street" is the ninth track on "Lover."

Best lyrics: "I get mystified by how this city screams your name / And baby, I'm so terrified of if you ever walk away / I'd never walk Cornelia Street again."

"Daylight"
taylor swift eras tour
"Daylight" is the 18th track on "Lover."

Best lyrics: "And I can still see it all in my head / Back and forth from New York sneaking in your bed / I once believed love would be burning red / But it's golden."

"Christmas Tree Farm"
taylor swift jingle ball
"Christmas Tree Farm" was released as a single in 2019.

Best lyrics: "Sweet dreams of holly and ribbon / Mistakes are forgiven / And everything is icy and blue / And you would be there too."

"My Tears Ricochet"
taylor swift eras tour
"My Tears Ricochet" is the fifth track on "Folklore."

Best lyrics: "And I can go anywhere I want / Anywhere I want, just not home / And you can aim for my heart, go for blood / But you would still miss me in your bones / And I still talk to you, when I'm screaming at the sky / And when you can't sleep at night, you hear my stolen lullabies."

"No Body, No Crime" (featuring HAIM)
taylor swift eras tour
"No Body, No Crime" is the sixth track on "Evermore."

Best lyrics: "Good thing Este's sister's gonna swear she was with me / Good thing his mistress took out a big life insurance policy."

"Vigilante Shit"
taylor swift eras tour
"Vigilante Shit" is the eighth track on "Midnights."

Best lyrics: "Picture me thick as thieves with your ex-wife / And she looks so pretty."

"Bigger Than the Whole Sky"
taylor swift midnights press photo
"Bigger Than the Whole Sky" is the 15th track on "Midnights (3am Edition)."

Best lyrics: "I've got a lot to pine about / I've got a lot to live without / I'm never gonna meet / What could've been, would've been / What should've been you."

"My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys"
taylor swift the tortured poets department press photo the bolter
"My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys" is the third track on "The Tortured Poets Department."

Best lyrics: "Pull my string and I'll tell you that he runs because he loves me."

"Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?"
taylor swift the tortured poets department press photo the black dog
"Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" is the 10th track on "The Tortured Poets Department."

Best lyrics: "You wouldn't last an hour in the asylum where they raised me / So all you kids can sneak into my house with all the cobwebs / I'm always drunk on my own tears, isn't that what they all said? / That I'll sue you if you step on my lawn / That I'm fearsome and I'm wretched and I'm wrong / Put narcotics into all of my songs / And that's why you're still singing along."

"The Black Dog"
taylor swift the tortured poets department press photo the black dog
"The Black Dog" is the 17th track on "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology."

Best lyrics: "I just don't understand how you don't miss me / In the shower, and remember / How my rain-soaked body was shaking / Do you hate me? Was it hazing for a cruel fraternity? / I pledged, and I still mean it / Old habits die screaming."

"Peter"
taylor swift the tortured poets department press photo the albatross
"Peter" is the 28th track on "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology."

Best lyrics: "You said you'd come and get me, but you were 25 / And the shelf life of those fantasies has expired / Lost to the 'Lost Boys' chapter of your life / Forgive me, Peter, please know that I tried / To hold on to the days when you were mine / But the woman who sits by the window / Has turned out the light."

"The Manuscript"
taylor swift the tortured poets department press photo the manuscript
"The Manuscript" is the 31st track on "The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology."

Best lyrics: "Then she dated boys who were her own age / With dart boards on the backs of their doors / She thought about how he said since she was so wise beyond her years / Everything had been above board / She wasn't sure."

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Prepare for bitcoin to fall after the long-awaited halving, JPMorgan says

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bitcoin price crash
  • Bitcoin's halving is taking place Friday or Saturday, but JPMorgan says it could be followed by a slump.  
  • The bank's analysis of bitcoin futures shows that the cryptocurrency is in overbought territory.
  • Mining companies will feel the pinch post-halving, and the sector could see consolidation. 

The long-awaited bitcoin halving bell is here, but don't bet on more rapid gains just yet —  JPMorgan says the price of the world's largest crypto could tumble shortly after the event. 

The quadrennial halving — scheduled around April 19-20 — slashes the amount of new bitcoin entering circulation by reducing the amount rewarded to miners by half. The market has widely been anticipating the event as a bullish catalyst, helping to send the token to record highs in 2024. 

"We do not expect bitcoin price increases post halving as it has been already priced in. In fact we see downside for the bitcoin price post halving for several reasons." analysts led by Nikolaos Panigirtzoglou wrote in a note this week. 

First, JPMorgan says that the bitcoin market is still riding high in overbought territory after surging to record highs in March. Panigirtzoglou previously pointed out several indicators that confirm this. 

"There remains considerable optimism in the market over the prospect for prices rising significantly by year-end, with a significant component of that optimism arising from a view that bitcoin demand via spot ETFs would continue at the same pace even as the supply of bitcoin diminishes after the halving event," he said in a separate note at the end of March. 

JPMorgan also observes that venture capital funding remains low despite the recent revival in the crypto market, another headwind for the price.

"We had previously argued that a recovery in crypto VC flows is a necessary condition for a sustained recovery in crypto markets so in our mind the subdued VC flows YTD pose a downside risk," the bank said in a note earlier this month. 

Mining companies will take a hit after the halving, the analysts said, while some could relocate to improve efficiency as they face the prospect of lower rewards. Others may consolidate and combine with larger publicly listed miners. 

"Post halving event, it is also likely that some bitcoin mining firms may look to diversify into low energy cost regions such as Latin America or Africa to deploy their inefficient mining rigs to gain salvage values from those rigs which would otherwise sit idle," the analysts wrote.

Read the original article on Business Insider

How to start a charcoal grill and arrange your coals for cook-out success

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Pouring lit charcoal out of a chimney starter into a charcoal grill
Starting a charcoal grill may seem intimidating, but it just takes a few steps.
  • The best way to light a charcoal grill is with a chimney starter.
  • If you don't have a chimney starter, layer charcoal over newspaper and ignite with a long lighter.
  • Once the charcoal turns grayish-white, you're ready to start grilling.

Starting a charcoal grill isn't quite as straightforward as turning on a stove, so Matt Groark of Groark Boys BBQ and Liam and Myles Snider of Mother Tongue break down the steps below, along with the do's and don'ts.

We pulled together easy step-by-step instructions to light the best charcoal grill, whether you're using a chimney starter, lighter fluid, or no lighter fluid at all. Plus, we included tips on how you should go about arranging your coals for a perfect cook. 

How to use a charcoal chimney 

Charcoal chimney starter sitting inside a grill
Using a chimney starter to light charcoal is the preferred method of most grilling experts.

Charcoal chimney starters are the preferred way to start a charcoal grill for most people. To start a charcoal grill using a chimney starter:

1. Fill the chimney with charcoal. Add as much charcoal as necessary for the food you're cooking (see chart above).

2. Place lighter cubes, newspaper, or paper towels under the chimney. Add one of these to the chamber underneath the chimney. This will serve as your starter.

3. Light the starter. Use a long lighter to spare your fingers. If you're using newspaper or paper towels, consider adding a few drops of cooking oil to help ignite it.

4. Wait for the charcoal to ignite. This should take about 12 to 15 minutes. You'll eventually see an amber glow and the top layer of charcoal will turn grayish-white.

5. Dump the lit charcoal into the grill. Once ignited, carefully dump the lit charcoal into the grill (under the grate) in your preferred arrangement (see below) and begin cooking.

How to light charcoal without lighter fluid or a chimney

Hand-lighting charcoal inside a grill with a lighter
Arrange balled-up newspaper under your charcoal and light it with a long lighter if you don't have a chimney starter.

If you don't have a chimney starter, another reliable, yet simple option for starting a charcoal grill is the newspaper method. 

1. Place newspaper under the grill grate. Ball up newspaper and place it wherever you wish to place your charcoal. If you plan to have multiple heat zones, place the newspaper in each location charcoal will be. Sprinkle a bit of cooking oil on the newspaper to help it ignite.

2. Arrange the charcoal around the newspaper. Use enough charcoal to cover the newspaper sufficiently while still allowing airflow to encourage ignition.

3. Light the newspaper. Find a piece of exposed newspaper and light it with a long lighter. Remember to light your newspaper in every zone you established.

4. Wait for the charcoal to ignite. This will take a bit longer than it would with a charcoal chimney but the charcoal should all ignite within about 15 minutes. Keep your grill open to let oxygen feed the fire. You're ready to grill once your charcoal is grayish-white.

How to start a charcoal grill with lighter fluid

According to the experts, this is the least recommended of the three charcoal grill starting methods. Not only can it be dangerous, but it can also affect the taste of your food if not executed properly. Snider brothers said, "Many brands of lighter fluid are known to contain harmful chemical compounds that don't break down easily," which means they may end up in your food and potentially even make your food taste bad. For the same reason, they also suggest avoiding instant-light charcoal.

Should this be your only option, though, Groark reassures us: "As long as you allow [the lighter fluid] to burn off to that amber glow, you will taste nothing but that classic charcoal flavor."

1. Arrange charcoal on the grill. Place your charcoal in your preferred arrangement.

2. Douse the middle of the pile(s) in lighter fluid. Use approximately 1/4 cup of lighter fluid per pound of charcoal.

3. Light with a long lighter. Let the lighter fluid soak in for about 30 seconds first, and back up when lighting in case of a flare-up.

4. Let the charcoal burn until it is grayish-white. This should take about 15 minutes.

How to choose the right charcoal

When choosing charcoal you'll want to find the right type for whatever it is you are cooking. Lump charcoal burns cleaner, hotter, and faster, while traditional briquettes burn slower and not as hot, according to Groark.

Lump CharcoalBriquettes
Irregularly shaped charcoal made from natural hardwoodSimilarly shaped pieces of compressed coal dust or other combustible material
Less ashMore ash
Hotter burnCooler burn
Faster burnSlower burn
Natural and more expensiveLess expensive
Good for shorter cooks like vegetables, thin-cut meats, etc.Good for longer cooks like steak, full birds, etc.

How much charcoal to use

The amount of charcoal changes depending on the temperature and cook time necessary for your dish. For most everyday cooks, Groark recommends half to 3/4 of a charcoal chimney. While half to 3/4 of a chimney is a pretty safe rule of thumb, remember: too little charcoal could mean your grill doesn't get hot enough while too much charcoal could mean it gets too hot. Use less charcoal if you're cooking low and slow. Use more for fast, hot cooks.

If you don't have a chimney, use as much coal as you need to cover the bottom of whatever space you are cooking atop. If the charcoal starts to burn down on longer cooks, add more to the pile and keep grilling.

Amount of CharcoalTemperatureCook TimeGrill Size
¼ chimneyLow heatSlowSmall, Medium, or Large
½ to ¾ chimneyMedium heatModerateMedium or Large
¾ to 1 chimneyHigh heatFastLarge

How to arrange your charcoal for optimum temperature control

Now that you know how to light your charcoal, you'll also want to choose the best charcoal arrangement to properly prepare whatever food you are grilling.

how to arrange your charcoal@150x

Simple one-zone arrangement

Charcoal is arranged in a bed across the entire bottom of the grill. This is the most basic configuration but provides only direct heat.

When to use it: For grilling only food(s) that require direct, fast cooking.

Classic two-zone arrangement 

Charcoal is arranged in the center of the grill or off to one side. This creates a two-zone configuration with a "hot zone" for searing and fast cooking over direct heat and a "cool zone" for slower cooking and resting foods over indirect heat. "[The cool zone] also gives you an area to move your food in case of flame flare-ups," the Sniders say.

When to use it: For grilling a variety of foods that require different temperatures and time cooking or to have the flexibility of being able to control the temperature as you grill.

Snake method

Unlit charcoal is arranged in a 300-degree circle around the perimeter of the grill with no charcoal in the middle. Lit charcoal briquettes are added to either end of the "snake" to ignite the charcoal over time and maintain steady heat for a long cook.

When to use it: For slow cooking or smoking foods for a long period of time.

Minion method

Unlit charcoal is arranged around a center pile of lit charcoal. The unlit charcoal slowly ignites over time for a steadier slow cook.

When to use it: For slow cooking or smoking foods for a long period of time.

When is charcoal ready to grill?

Lit charcoal
Charcoal should be grayish-white with no visible flame before you start grilling.

When the charcoal turns grayish-white, you'll know it's ready to begin cooking. If you start grilling before this, the Sniders point out that the biggest consequence will be less heat.

"One of the biggest advantages of charcoal grills versus stovetops is that charcoal can get much hotter," the brothers say. "This allows you to achieve an incredible sear on meats and vegetables and creates new reactions that develop deep flavor. If you don't wait long enough for your charcoal to light up, you won't get this advantage."

How to put out a charcoal grill

Putting out your grill after you're done cooking on it is the safest and most economical action you can take. Not only are you taking steps to prevent accidental fires, but you might end up with some leftover charcoal to use for future grilling escapades. 

Here's the safest way to put out a charcoal grill: 

1. Put the lid on the grill. To extinguish coals once you are done cooking, put the lid on the grill and shut the vents to prevent oxygen from feeding the coals. 

2. Let it cool and safely dispose. After you have waited for the charcoal to cool completely, which can take up to 48 hours, you can safely dispose of them. Once the ashes are cool, wrap them in aluminum foil and put them in the trash.

3. Clean your grill. From here, you can give your grill a good cleaning to get it ready for your next meal.

Insider's takeaway

Though it may seem intimidating, lighting a charcoal grill is simple. Choose the charcoal type, lighting method, and amount that works for the food you are cooking and the size of your grill. Then decide how to arrange the charcoal in the grill.

Experts agree that using the chimney starter lighting method and cooking on a classic two-zone arrangement will give you the most control over safety, temperature, and amount of time grilling. Above all else? Don't overthink it and enjoy the process. As Groark says, "nothing brings back the nostalgia of one's childhood cookout more than the smell and flavor of a meal grilled over charcoal."

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The 5 best cat harnesses of 2024

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A cat sitting on a bridge outside wearing one of our picks for the best cat harnesses.
We talked to adventure cat parents to learn about the best cat harnesses.

The safest way to walk your kitty outdoors is with one of the best cat harnesses and a leash. Walking your cat around the neighborhood or bringing them along on a hike can help keep them fit and trim, but that's not all. Getting your cat outside will also reduce their boredom and release some of that extra energy they may be taking out on your furniture.

We spoke to veterinarians and pet parents from the adventure cat community about their favorite harnesses. With their help, we chose the best harnesses for walking cats. Our top pick is the vest-style RC Pets Adventure Kitty Harness, thanks to its secure fit. For about $10 less, we like the budget-friendly Petsafe Come With Me Kitty Harness. While its strap design isn't as secure as the RC Pets vest, it's a durable, easily adjustable harness.

Read more about how Insider Reviews tests and recommends pet products.

Our top picks for the best cat harnesses

Best vest style: RC Pets Adventure Kitty Harness - See at Amazon

Best jacket style: Kitty Holster Cat Harness - See at Chewy

Best budget: Petsafe Come With Me Kitty Harness - See at Chewy

Best dog harness for a cat: Puppia Rite Fit Dog Harness - See at Amazon

Best for kittens: Catit Adjustable Cat Harness - See at Catit

Best vest style

RC Pets Adventure Kitty Harness is a favorite among the guardians we consulted and in the adventure cat community as a whole. The vest-style harness is made from breathable polyester mesh and nylon neck and waist straps that can be adjusted with a buckle at the waist.

Designed to fit the unique shape of a cat's body, the harness is the main one Megan Ferney uses with her feline explorer, Leon The Adventure Cat. "Almost all cat harnesses are just small dog harnesses: They don't fit great, and cats can get out of them easily," she says. "This particular harness is made ergonomically for a cat."

A longhaired orange cat is wearing the RC Pets Adventure Kitty Harness while sitting in the grass outdoors.
Leon the Adventure Cat wears the RC Pets Adventure Kitty Harness on one of his many hikes.

The harness may contribute to overheating in hot weather because it covers a significant portion of a cat's body. Cats sensitive to handling may also have trouble with this harness since it must be pulled over their head. A sturdy D-ring is at the back for attaching the included 6-foot leash.

All things considered, the Adventure Kitty is one of the best cat harnesses thanks to its secure fit that is comfortable for cats of different shapes and sizes, says Rachel Trybuch, who has one for each of her cats, Mr. Floofington and Duchess Meow.

Best jacket style

Dr. Aimee Simpson, medical director at VCA Cat Hospital of Philadelphia, likes jacket cat harnesses because they are easy to put on and relatively secure. "I use a jacket-style harness for my cat Maeby, who was trained to walk outside as a young kitten and now looks forward to, even begs for, her evening walks in our backyard," she says.

Hands down, the best-loved jacket harness in the adventure cat community — and the one Simpson uses — is the Kitty Holster. While there's no such thing as a completely escape-proof cat harness, this one leaves very little room for a cat to wiggle their way out.

The kitty holster harness is worn by an orange long haired cat sitting in the grass.
Available in four sizes and seven colors, the jacket-style Kitty Holster is one of the best cat harnesses.
The harness consists of a single piece of lightweight, breathable cotton. To put it on, drape the fabric over your cat's back, guide their front legs through the openings, and fasten the velcro closures at the neck and belly. It has a metal D-ring at the back for connecting to a leash, which is not included.

Best budget

Petsafe's Come With Me Kitty Harness is an H-style harness that is an excellent choice for warm weather. "It's just straps, so there's no heat retention," says Ferney. "If it's really hot out, I'll always put that one on." Because this harness is highly expandable with points of adjustment at the chest and waist, it also works well in winter layered over a sweater or jacket. 

A white cat is standing outside in the grass wearing the Petsafe Come With Me Kitty Cat harness.
The Come With Me Kitty is a lightweight harness that is ideal for hot days.

Ferney likes the martingale-style design at the back of the harness, which tightens when a cat pulls forward or backward. While H-style cat harnesses may be less secure than vest and jacket harnesses, the strap pulley at the back of Petsafe's version makes it harder for cats to escape.

The harness's different-colored waistband makes it easier to put on correctly. There is a D-ring at the back for attaching the included bungee leash. 

Best dog harness for a cat

If you're looking for a secure vest-style harness for your cat, but your budget is limited, Puppia's RiteFit Dog Harness may be the ticket. Puppia's soft, breathable vest is commonly used in the adventure kitty community. Because it's been designed for a dog's body, it doesn't have the same ergonomic fit as the best cat harnesses, but it still makes a comfortable, affordable substitute. 

Puppia's breathable mesh RiteFit Harness has interior padding and two points of adjustability on the neck strap. The neck also has velcro closures and two buckles, which allow you to dress your cat from the belly up instead of slipping the harness over their head. There is also a buckle on the adjustable waist strap. Because it's designed for a dog's body, a snug fit will help prevent your cat from escaping.

An orange cat is wearing a purple Puppia Rite Fit harness in front of a light blue background.
Although the Puppia Rite Fit Harness is designed for dogs, it's an affordable vest-style harness that cats can wear comfortably.

The RiteFit has two metal D-rings at the back to attach to a leash (not included). Like the other vest and jacket harnesses in this guide, using it in hot weather may cause your cat to overheat.

Best for kittens 

Finding a harness small enough to fit a kitten can be a challenge, says Sarah Olewski Klassen. The one that worked for her explorer cat Gibson, and the one she recommends to other kitten explorers, is Catit's Adjustable Cat Harness. "Sizewise, it's perfect, and it's pretty secure," she says.

Catit's harness has an H-style design with straps around the neck and waist and a straight strap that connects them along the spine. However, it lacks a straight strap that connects the neck and waist beneath the belly like Petsafe's Come With Me Kitty Harness, which may make it easier to wiggle out of.

A long-haired white cat is wearing the blue Catit Adjustable cat harness.
The simply designed Catit Adjustable Harness comes in kitten-friendly sizes.

The neck and waist straps are adjustable, and because each has a buckle, there's no need to pull this harness over your kitten's head. A removable bell attached to the metal D-ring at the back warns small critters your cat is on the prowl and helps you locate your kitty if they happen to escape the harness.

The harness is sold with a lightweight 4-foot-long ribbon leash, but you can also purchase only the harness. While Catit's Adjustable Harness may be easier for a cat to escape than a vest or jacket-style harness, the simple design makes it a good introductory harness for budding young explorer kittens.

What to look for in a cat harness

With the help of our experts, we came up with a list of the characteristics of the best cat harnesses:

  • Comfortable design made from breathable material
  • Adjustable neck and waist straps
  • A buckle at the neck so the harness does not need to be pulled over the head
  • Secure buckles and closures to help prevent the cat from escaping
  • Availability in multiple sizes
  • Visual and/or audible accents like a bell
  • Affordability

How we selected the best cat harnesses

To determine our recommendations for the best cat harnesses, we relied on the advice of the guardians of cat explorers and veterinarians.

Dr. Christine Calder is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist at Calder Veterinary Behavior Services in Portland, Maine. Calder is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and holds a veterinary degree from the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She runs Calder Veterinary Behavior Services and worked at the San Francisco SPCA, Midcoast Humane, Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine, and Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Health Center. We consulted Calder via email on June 23, 2021.

Megan Ferney is the guardian of Leon the Adventure Cat, whom she adopted in 2017. Ferney and Leon live in Spokane, Washington, where they enjoy hiking, camping, and paddleboarding. We interviewed Ferney by phone on July 2, 2021.

Sarah Olewski Klassen is a pet blogger and the guardian of Gibson the Explorer Cat. She blogs about their adventures in and around Toronto at The Gibson Chronicles. We interviewed Olewski Klassen over the phone on June 22, 2021.

Dr. Aimee Simpson is a veterinarian and medical director at VCA Cat Hospital of Philadelphia. Since earning a veterinary degree at the University of Pennsylvania in 2005, Simpson has been part of the VCA Cat Hospital of Philadelphia team. She is the clinic's medical director. We consulted with Simpson via email on July 6, 2021.

Rachel Trybuch is the guardian of two adventure cats: Mr. Floofington and Duchess. They explore the world from their home base in Abbotsford, British Columbia. We consulted Trybuch over email on June 30, 2021.

Cat harness FAQs

A gray cat is wearing a harness and leash in the park.
Gibson the Explorer Cat hikes in Glen Stewart Park in Toronto.

Is it OK to put a harness on a cat?

Yes, but keep in mind that cats do not innately understand what a harness is or how to walk in one. It must be gradually introduced in a safe, comfortable, and positive way.

What kind of harness is best for a cat?

There are three primary cat harness styles: vest harnesses, jacket harnesses, and H-style harnesses, which have straps that buckle around the neck and waist. Which harness is best? Dr. Christine Calder, a veterinary behaviorist, doesn't have a preference as long as it fits well and stays on. You'll also want to give some consideration to the season. An H-style harness is good in hot weather and easier to pair with a jacket or sweater in cold weather, while a vest or jacket harness is likely better in more moderate temperatures.

Why do cats fall over when you put a harness on?

Cats unfamiliar with a harness will likely fall over or refuse to move the first time you put it on them. Because cats are very sensitive to materials that apply pressure on their skin and fur, they may believe that it prevents them from walking or moving regularly without a gradual introduction to the harness. To prevent your cat from shutting down, check out our tips for introducing your cat to a harness.

Is it cruel to harness-train a cat?

No. In fact, cat harnesses can open up a whole new world for your cat. "Walking is a great way to keep indoor cats active and offer them more stimulation than they would normally get in a home environment," says Simpson. "Living indoors can lead to boredom and anxiety in many cats, so outdoor access can help to alleviate this." Walking can also help an overweight cat lose weight. That said, it is important to recognize that not every cat wants to be an adventure cat. If your cat is highly anxious, they may not be the best candidate — although Simpson told us that even fearful cats can enjoy the outdoors if they are carefully and gradually introduced to it.

What type of leash should I use with a cat harness?

Calder and Simpson don't feel strongly that cats need a particular kind of leash. While Simpson uses a 4-foot leash on her adventure kitty Maeby, Calder pointed out that some cats may be less anxious on a longer leash that provides them more freedom. Olewski Klassen sometimes uses a retractable leash with her kitty Gibson, but says that many cat explorers don't like using them because the long tether makes it harder to keep your cat safe.

How to fit a cat for a harness

A gray cat laying in the grass wearing a Kitty Holster Cat Harness with a blue leash attached.
Dr. Aimee Simpson chose a jacket-style harness for her cat Maeby because it's easy to put on and relatively secure.

Fit is important in a cat harness. If it's too loose, a determined kitty can wiggle free. If it's too tight, it may rub uncomfortably or restrict movement.

Simpson recommends measuring your cat before purchasing a harness. Most manufacturers provide measurements for both the circumference of the neck and the circumference of the chest. Wrap a flexible measuring tape around the widest part of your cat's neck just above the shoulders and the widest part of their chest just behind the front legs, then compare the figures with the available options. If your cat falls in between sizes, go with the larger one.

Once you have the correct size harness, you'll need to make adjustments so that it fits your cat properly. Calder's general rule of thumb is for a cat harness to fit snugly while leaving enough room for two fingers to fit between it and your cat's body. If you have a known escape artist, the harness can be tightened so there's only room for one finger to fit under the straps, says Simpson.

How to introduce a cat to a harness

Introduce the harness indoors

Trybuch and Olewski Klassen first introduced their young cats to a harness indoors. They put the harness on for brief periods, during which they offered lots of treats and played games. These short sessions helped their kitties forget about the gear, learn how to move while wearing it, and form positive associations. Over time, as your kitty becomes more comfortable with the harness, the longer it can stay on.

Add a lightweight leash

The leash comes next. Begin by allowing your cat to drag it along under supervision, then graduate to picking up the end of the leash briefly so they get used to the feeling of tension at its end.

Gradually expose them to the outdoors

Either during the period that you introduce your cat to the harness and leash or after they are comfortable with it, you can gradually expose them to the outdoors. If your cat has no outdoor experience, you'll want to use one of the best airline-approved cat carriers. Place your cat in a closed carrier and sit with them outside, rewarding them with treats following loud noises and other scary triggers like passing dogs. When your cat is less frightened, you can begin opening the carrier's door and allowing them to explore while wearing their harness and leash. If they get nervous, let them get back into the carrier to hide and regain their bravery. Before venturing out, you'll also want to make sure your cat is protected with one of the best flea treatments for cats and is wearing an ID tag attached to one of the best cat collars.

Begin adventuring

Ferney recommends choosing a relatively enclosed space versus a wide-open park or beach to start "walking" your kitty. Always bring your carrier or cat backpack so they can retreat to their safe space when needed. Never force your cat out of their pack. Instead, allow them to build the confidence they need to explore. Gradually, they'll spend more and more time walking on their own.

Slowly introduce them to new locations

When your cat is comfortable with the harness, leash, and initial outdoor space, you can slowly diversify the locations you take them, always ensuring your cat is not overwhelmed by the new environment. The guardians we consulted have taken their adventure cats everywhere, from city streets to hiking trails to Niagara Falls. Always carry a pack with you so your cat has a safe place to go when they need to. On longer adventures, the pack also allows a tired cat to ride along and rest their legs.

Best vest style
A longhaired orange cat is wearing the RC Pets Adventure Kitty Harness while sitting in the grass outdoors.
Leon the Adventure Cat wears the RC Pets Adventure Kitty Harness on one of his many hikes.

RC Pets Adventure Kitty Harness is a favorite among the guardians we consulted and in the adventure cat community as a whole. The vest-style harness is made from breathable polyester mesh and nylon neck and waist straps that can be adjusted with a buckle at the waist.

Designed to fit the unique shape of a cat's body, the harness is the main one Megan Ferney uses with her feline explorer, Leon The Adventure Cat. "Almost all cat harnesses are just small dog harnesses: They don't fit great, and cats can get out of them easily," she says. "This particular harness is made ergonomically for a cat."

The harness may contribute to overheating in hot weather because it covers a significant portion of a cat's body. Cats sensitive to handling may also have trouble with this harness since it must be pulled over their head. A sturdy D-ring is at the back for attaching the included 6-foot leash.

All things considered, the Adventure Kitty is one of the best cat harnesses thanks to its secure fit that is comfortable for cats of different shapes and sizes, says Rachel Trybuch, who has one for each of her cats, Mr. Floofington and Duchess Meow.

Best jacket style
The kitty holster harness is worn by an orange long haired cat sitting in the grass.
Available in four sizes and seven colors, the jacket-style Kitty Holster is one of the best cat harnesses.

Dr. Aimee Simpson, medical director at VCA Cat Hospital of Philadelphia, likes jacket cat harnesses because they are easy to put on and relatively secure. "I use a jacket-style harness for my cat Maeby, who was trained to walk outside as a young kitten and now looks forward to, even begs for, her evening walks in our backyard," she says.

Hands down, the best-loved jacket harness in the adventure cat community — and the one Simpson uses — is the Kitty Holster. While there's no such thing as a completely escape-proof cat harness, this one leaves very little room for a cat to wiggle their way out.

The harness consists of a single piece of lightweight, breathable cotton. To put it on, drape the fabric over your cat's back, guide their front legs through the openings, and fasten the velcro closures at the neck and belly. It has a metal D-ring at the back for connecting to a leash, which is not included.

Best budget
A white cat is standing outside in the grass wearing the Petsafe Come With Me Kitty Cat harness.
The Come With Me Kitty is a lightweight harness that is ideal for hot days.

Petsafe's Come With Me Kitty Harness is an H-style harness that is an excellent choice for warm weather. "It's just straps, so there's no heat retention," says Ferney. "If it's really hot out, I'll always put that one on." Because this harness is highly expandable with points of adjustment at the chest and waist, it also works well in winter layered over a sweater or jacket. 

Ferney likes the martingale-style design at the back of the harness, which tightens when a cat pulls forward or backward. While H-style cat harnesses may be less secure than vest and jacket harnesses, the strap pulley at the back of Petsafe's version makes it harder for cats to escape.

The harness's different-colored waistband makes it easier to put on correctly. There is a D-ring at the back for attaching the included bungee leash. 

Best dog harness for a cat
An orange cat is wearing a purple Puppia Rite Fit harness in front of a light blue background.
Although the Puppia Rite Fit Harness is designed for dogs, it's an affordable vest-style harness that cats can wear comfortably.

If you're looking for a secure vest-style harness for your cat, but your budget is limited, Puppia's RiteFit Dog Harness may be the ticket. Puppia's soft, breathable vest is commonly used in the adventure kitty community. Because it's been designed for a dog's body, it doesn't have the same ergonomic fit as the best cat harnesses, but it still makes a comfortable, affordable substitute. 

Puppia's breathable mesh RiteFit Harness has interior padding and two points of adjustability on the neck strap. The neck also has velcro closures and two buckles, which allow you to dress your cat from the belly up instead of slipping the harness over their head. There is also a buckle on the adjustable waist strap. Because it's designed for a dog's body, a snug fit will help prevent your cat from escaping.

The RiteFit has two metal D-rings at the back to attach to a leash (not included). Like the other vest and jacket harnesses in this guide, using it in hot weather may cause your cat to overheat.

Best for kittens: Catit Adjustable Cat Harness
A long-haired white cat is wearing the blue Catit Adjustable cat harness.
The simply designed Catit Adjustable Harness comes in kitten-friendly sizes.

Finding a harness small enough to fit a kitten can be a challenge, says Sarah Olewski Klassen. The one that worked for her explorer cat Gibson, and the one she recommends to other kitten explorers, is Catit's Adjustable Cat Harness. "Sizewise, it's perfect, and it's pretty secure," she says.

Catit's harness has an H-style design with straps around the neck and waist and a straight strap that connects them along the spine. However, it lacks a straight strap that connects the neck and waist beneath the belly like Petsafe's Come With Me Kitty Harness, which may make it easier to wiggle out of.

The neck and waist straps are adjustable, and because each has a buckle, there's no need to pull this harness over your kitten's head. A removable bell attached to the metal D-ring at the back warns small critters your cat is on the prowl and helps you locate your kitty if they happen to escape the harness.

The harness is sold with a lightweight 4-foot-long ribbon leash, but you can also purchase only the harness. While Catit's Adjustable Harness may be easier for a cat to escape than a vest or jacket-style harness, the simple design makes it a good introductory harness for budding young explorer kittens.

What to look for in a cat harness

With the help of our experts, we came up with a list of the characteristics of the best cat harnesses:

  • Comfortable design made from breathable material
  • Adjustable neck and waist straps
  • A buckle at the neck so the harness does not need to be pulled over the head
  • Secure buckles and closures to help prevent the cat from escaping
  • Availability in multiple sizes
  • Visual and/or audible accents like a bell
  • Affordability
How we selected the best cat harnesses

To determine our recommendations for the best cat harnesses, we relied on the advice of the guardians of cat explorers and veterinarians.

Dr. Christine Calder is a board-certified veterinary behaviorist at Calder Veterinary Behavior Services in Portland, Maine. Calder is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists and holds a veterinary degree from the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She runs Calder Veterinary Behavior Services and worked at the San Francisco SPCA, Midcoast Humane, Auburn University's College of Veterinary Medicine, and Mississippi State University's College of Veterinary Medicine Animal Health Center. We consulted Calder via email on June 23, 2021.

Megan Ferney is the guardian of Leon the Adventure Cat, whom she adopted in 2017. Ferney and Leon live in Spokane, Washington, where they enjoy hiking, camping, and paddleboarding. We interviewed Ferney by phone on July 2, 2021.

Sarah Olewski Klassen is a pet blogger and the guardian of Gibson the Explorer Cat. She blogs about their adventures in and around Toronto at The Gibson Chronicles. We interviewed Olewski Klassen over the phone on June 22, 2021.

Dr. Aimee Simpson is a veterinarian and medical director at VCA Cat Hospital of Philadelphia. Since earning a veterinary degree at the University of Pennsylvania in 2005, Simpson has been part of the VCA Cat Hospital of Philadelphia team. She is the clinic's medical director. We consulted with Simpson via email on July 6, 2021.

Rachel Trybuch is the guardian of two adventure cats: Mr. Floofington and Duchess. They explore the world from their home base in Abbotsford, British Columbia. We consulted Trybuch over email on June 30, 2021.

Cat harness FAQs
A gray cat is wearing a harness and leash in the park.
Gibson the Explorer Cat hikes in Glen Stewart Park in Toronto.

Is it OK to put a harness on a cat?

Yes, but keep in mind that cats do not innately understand what a harness is or how to walk in one. It must be gradually introduced in a safe, comfortable, and positive way.

What kind of harness is best for a cat?

There are three primary cat harness styles: vest harnesses, jacket harnesses, and H-style harnesses, which have straps that buckle around the neck and waist. Which harness is best? Dr. Christine Calder, a veterinary behaviorist, doesn't have a preference as long as it fits well and stays on. You'll also want to give some consideration to the season. An H-style harness is good in hot weather and easier to pair with a jacket or sweater in cold weather, while a vest or jacket harness is likely better in more moderate temperatures.

Why do cats fall over when you put a harness on?

Cats unfamiliar with a harness will likely fall over or refuse to move the first time you put it on them. Because cats are very sensitive to materials that apply pressure on their skin and fur, they may believe that it prevents them from walking or moving regularly without a gradual introduction to the harness. To prevent your cat from shutting down, check out our tips for introducing your cat to a harness.

Is it cruel to harness-train a cat?

No. In fact, cat harnesses can open up a whole new world for your cat. "Walking is a great way to keep indoor cats active and offer them more stimulation than they would normally get in a home environment," says Simpson. "Living indoors can lead to boredom and anxiety in many cats, so outdoor access can help to alleviate this." Walking can also help an overweight cat lose weight. That said, it is important to recognize that not every cat wants to be an adventure cat. If your cat is highly anxious, they may not be the best candidate — although Simpson told us that even fearful cats can enjoy the outdoors if they are carefully and gradually introduced to it.

What type of leash should I use with a cat harness?

Calder and Simpson don't feel strongly that cats need a particular kind of leash. While Simpson uses a 4-foot leash on her adventure kitty Maeby, Calder pointed out that some cats may be less anxious on a longer leash that provides them more freedom. Olewski Klassen sometimes uses a retractable leash with her kitty Gibson, but says that many cat explorers don't like using them because the long tether makes it harder to keep your cat safe.

How to fit a cat for a harness
A gray cat laying in the grass wearing a Kitty Holster Cat Harness with a blue leash attached.
Dr. Aimee Simpson chose a jacket-style harness for her cat Maeby because it's easy to put on and relatively secure.

Fit is important in a cat harness. If it's too loose, a determined kitty can wiggle free. If it's too tight, it may rub uncomfortably or restrict movement.

Simpson recommends measuring your cat before purchasing a harness. Most manufacturers provide measurements for both the circumference of the neck and the circumference of the chest. Wrap a flexible measuring tape around the widest part of your cat's neck just above the shoulders and the widest part of their chest just behind the front legs, then compare the figures with the available options. If your cat falls in between sizes, go with the larger one.

Once you have the correct size harness, you'll need to make adjustments so that it fits your cat properly. Calder's general rule of thumb is for a cat harness to fit snugly while leaving enough room for two fingers to fit between it and your cat's body. If you have a known escape artist, the harness can be tightened so there's only room for one finger to fit under the straps, says Simpson.

How to introduce a cat to a harness
Sarah Klassen walking Gibson the explorer cat on a harness down a set of stairs in a park.
Before Sarah Olewski Klassen began taking her cat Gibson out on adventures, she gradually introduced him to a harness.

Introduce the harness indoors

Trybuch and Olewski Klassen first introduced their young cats to a harness indoors. They put the harness on for brief periods, during which they offered lots of treats and played games. These short sessions helped their kitties forget about the gear, learn how to move while wearing it, and form positive associations. Over time, as your kitty becomes more comfortable with the harness, the longer it can stay on.

Add a lightweight leash

The leash comes next. Begin by allowing your cat to drag it along under supervision, then graduate to picking up the end of the leash briefly so they get used to the feeling of tension at its end.

Gradually expose them to the outdoors

Either during the period that you introduce your cat to the harness and leash or after they are comfortable with it, you can gradually expose them to the outdoors. If your cat has no outdoor experience, you'll want to use one of the best airline-approved cat carriers. Place your cat in a closed carrier and sit with them outside, rewarding them with treats following loud noises and other scary triggers like passing dogs. When your cat is less frightened, you can begin opening the carrier's door and allowing them to explore while wearing their harness and leash. If they get nervous, let them get back into the carrier to hide and regain their bravery. Before venturing out, you'll also want to make sure your cat is protected with one of the best flea treatments for cats and is wearing an ID tag attached to one of the best cat collars.

Begin adventuring

Ferney recommends choosing a relatively enclosed space versus a wide-open park or beach to start "walking" your kitty. Always bring your carrier or cat backpack so they can retreat to their safe space when needed. Never force your cat out of their pack. Instead, allow them to build the confidence they need to explore. Gradually, they'll spend more and more time walking on their own.

Slowly introduce them to new locations

When your cat is comfortable with the harness, leash, and initial outdoor space, you can slowly diversify the locations you take them, always ensuring your cat is not overwhelmed by the new environment. The guardians we consulted have taken their adventure cats everywhere, from city streets to hiking trails to Niagara Falls. Always carry a pack with you so your cat has a safe place to go when they need to. On longer adventures, the pack also allows a tired cat to ride along and rest their legs.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Billionaire Ken Griffin's firm calls Trump Media's CEO a 'loser' after criticism of short-selling

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devin nunes trump russia
Trump Media CEO David Nunes
  • Trump Media's CEO is a "proverbial loser" for blaming short sellers for the stock's crash.  
  • Trump Media fired back at the firm's statement, accusing the market maker of "screwing over" investors.
  • In a recent letter, TMTG's CEO blamed the company's stock crash on short-sellers. 

Billionaire Ken Griffin's Citadel Securities slammed Trump Media's CEO after the executive blamed short-sellers for tanking the company's stock. 

The firm called David Nunes, Trump Media's chief executive, a "loser" in a statement to the Financial Times on Friday, responding to a letter Nunes wrote earlier this week that bemoaned "potential market manipulation" of Trump Media shares.

The letter, which was addressed to the Chair and CEO of the Nasdaq Exchange and filed to the Securities and Exchange Commission on Friday, said brokers overseeing DJT trades had "a significant financial incentive to lend non-existent shares," flagging concerns about the illicit practice known as naked short selling. 

Citadel, Jane Street, and two other market makers were responsible for 60% of "the extraordinary volume of DJT shares traded," the letter added.

Nunes asked the stock exchange to "foster transparency and compliance" by making sure brokerages were adhering to regulations.

"Devin Nunes is the proverbial loser who tries to blame 'naked short selling' for his falling stock price," Citadel said to the FT. "Nunes is exactly the type of person Donald Trump would have fired on "The Apprentice." If he worked for Citadel Securities, we would fire him, as ability and integrity are at the centre of everything we do."

Trump Media later replied to Citadel's statement.

"Citadel Securities, a corporate behemoth that has been fined and censured for an incredibly wide range of offenses including issues related to naked short selling and is world famous for screwing over everyday retail investors at the behest of other corporations, is the last company on earth that should lecture anyone on 'integrity,'" the company said to the FT.

Spokespeople from both Citadel Securities and Trump Media reiterated their responses and declined to comment further when reached by Business Insider. 

Shares of Trump Media have been on a rollercoaster since the company went public at the end of March, with the stock plunging 70% from its peak before rebounding 47% this week.

The company has attempted to pass the blame for the issues plaguing the business and for its share-price declines, filing a suit against two Truth Social cofounders for making "reckless" decisions ahead of the stock's initial public offering.

Read the original article on Business Insider

UConn's Paige Bueckers is an early favorite for the No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA draft. Here's why the internet is loving her right now.

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Paige Bueckers at the 2024 WNBA Draft.
Paige Bueckers at the 2024 WNBA Draft.
  • Paige Bueckers, 22, is a star guard on UConn's women's basketball team.
  • She's returning to UConn in the fall, but fans are already anticipating her WNBA debut.
  • Her style and support for her teammates at this year's draft have gotten a lot of love online.

Paige Bueckers was one of the most-talked-about names after the 2024 WNBA draft on Monday, April 15, and she wasn't even one of the recruits.

Styled in an all-white Louis Vuitton look and gold accessories, Bueckers stood in the audience, smiling, cheering, and taking pictures of her former UConn teammates Aaliyah Edwards and Nika Mühl as they were drafted by the Washington Mystics and Seattle Storm, respectively.

The internet quickly made a meme of Bueckers' reactions on X (formerly known as Twitter), describing her as a "proud mom." Even UConn Women's Basketball participated in the conversation, tweeting a video of Bueckers' reaction to Edwards' selection with the caption, "you're doing amazing sweetie" (a nod to another "proud mom," Kris Jenner).

But while she captured the internet's heart as a spectator, Bueckers is a bonafide star on the court who'll be entering her fifth — and likely last — year at UConn, eyeing a national championship before transitioning to the WNBA.

With all the mention of Caitlin Clark in the last year, it's almost easy to forget that Bueckers was the original "It Girl" of the 2020 draft class. In 2021, she won numerous awards, including the Naismith Trophy, the Wooden Award, the ESPY for Best College Athlete — Women's Sports, and the Big East Player of the Year — all as a freshman, per UConn.

Bueckers' momentum was disrupted by injuries during her sophomore season, and an ACL tear left her benched for the entirety of her junior year, leading to an exciting, long-awaited return to the court in 2023 and a promising March Madness run to the Final Four.

The 2023-2024 season lifted women's college basketball to unprecedented heights, with the NCAA women's final attracting more viewers than the men's for the first time and NIL deals giving players like Clark and Angel Reese a larger platform to market themselves and the sport to a wider audience.

The shift isn't just limited to college athletics. The 2023 WNBA season was "its most-watched regular season in 21 years," the league reported, and Deloitte predicted women's sports will surpass $1 billion in revenue for the first time.

Get to know Paige Bueckers before she returns to UConn for her last dance and discover why she's the internet's latest obsession.

Paige Bueckers was the No. 1 recruit coming out of high school.
Bueckers during the Sweet 16 round of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament against Duke.
Bueckers during the Sweet 16 round of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament against Duke.

In 2020, Bleacher Report profiled the rising star during her senior year of high school and reported that her dad, Bob Bueckers, had tried to put her in other sports as a child, but Paige insisted on only playing basketball when she was in first grade.

By her senior year of high school in Hopkins, Minnesota, she was a two-time Gatorade Player of the Year and nicknamed "Paige Buckets." At the time of the profile, she was averaging 21.4 points and 9.2 assists per game.

"I'll never be able to reach perfection, so I can always strive to be perfect. I'm not at my full potential yet, and I'm just in high school, and I want to keep going — in college and the pros. I want to just keep playing basketball and keep getting better and never get complacent with where I'm at right now," an 18-year-old Bueckers told the reporter.

The 2020 HoopGurlz Recruiting Rankings by espnW determined Paige Bueckers was the No. 1 recruit coming out of high school, ahead of recent WNBA draftees like Angel Reese, Cameron Brink, Kamilla Cardoso, and yes, Caitlin Clark.

Her first year at UConn surpassed all expectations.
Bueckers dribbling against Arizona's Bendu Yeaney in the semifinal of the 2021 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament.
Bueckers dribbling against Arizona's Bendu Yeaney in the semifinal of the 2021 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament.

To say Bueckers started her collegiate career at UConn with a bang would be an understatement.

Per UConn and ESPN, the freshman led the Huskies in points (581), assists (166), steals (66), and three-point field goal percentage (46.4%) and seemingly earned every award possible that season.

Bueckers was the first female freshman to win the Wooden Award, recognizing the most outstanding college basketball players. She also received the Naismith Trophy and was named the 2021 espnW Player and Freshman of the Year, the 2021 AP Player of the Year, the 2021 WBCA Freshman of the Year, and the 2021 Big East Player and Freshman of the Year, among other awards.

Bueckers was named college athlete of the year for women's sports at the 2021 ESPYs, and she used her speech to honor Black women.
Bueckers delivering her speech after winning "Best College Athlete, Women's Sports" at the 2021 ESPYS.
Bueckers delivering her speech at the 2021 ESPYs.

Although her speech was given almost three years ago, there's been a renewed interest in Bueckers' words on TikTok. One clip posted by Uninterrupted, an athlete empowerment brand founded by LeBron James and Maverick Carter, has over 977,000 views and 97,000 likes.

"With the light that I have now as a white woman who leads a Black-led sport and celebrated here, I want to show a light on Black women. They don't get the media coverage that they deserve. They've given so much to this sport and the community and society as a whole, and their value is undeniable. And the WNBA last season, the postseason awards, 80 percent of the winners were Black, but they got half of the coverage as the white athletes, so I think it's time for change," Bueckers said.

"Sports media holds the key to storylines. Sports media and sponsors tell us who is valuable and you have told the world that I matter today, and everyone who voted, thank you, but I think we should use this power together to also celebrate Black women. So, to Maria Taylor, Robin Roberts, Maya Moore, Odicci Alexander, to all the incredible Black women in my life, on my teams, to Breonna Taylor and all the lives lost, and to those names who I have not yet learned but I hope to share, I stand behind you, and I'll continue to follow you and follow your lead and fight for you guys so I just wanna say, thank you for everything," she concluded.

This wasn't the first time Bueckers had been outspoken about social justice issues. Throughout the summer of 2020, she used her platform to speak in support of Black Lives Matter.

For example, in August 2020, Bueckers shared photos and videos of her little brother Drew, who is Black, on Instagram, writing in the caption, "At what point do they stop looking at my little brother as a cute little boy and instead as a threat to society? It scares me … I am committed to help making a change for the better."

After an incredible freshman year, Bueckers struggled with knee injuries as a sophomore and junior.
Paige Bueckers watches UConn warm up before their game against Louisville in December 2021.
Paige Bueckers watches UConn warm up before their game against Louisville in December 2021.

Bueckers missed 19 games during her sophomore season due to a fracture and meniscus tear. However, she was able to return and help the team reach the final of the 2022 NCAA Tournament. Bueckers scored 14 points and had six rebounds, but UConn ultimately lost to South Carolina.

Unfortunately, Bueckers' time with injuries wasn't over. She tore her ACL in August 2022 and was forced to miss the entirety of her junior season.

Bueckers made her long-awaited return to the court for the 2023-2024 season.
Bueckers dribbling during the Elite Eight round of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament against USC.
Bueckers dribbling during the Elite Eight round of the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament against USC.

After her ACL injury, Bueckers redshirted, giving her another year of NCAA eligibility.

UConn reported that she started all 39 games of the season, leading the team with an average of 21.9 points per game. She scored her 1,000th career point in her 55th game with the UConn Huskies, tying Maya Moore as the fastest player to reach that milestone.

In her returning season, she was named the most outstanding player of the 2024 Big East Tournament, the Big East Player of the Year, and the Big East Scholar-Athlete of the Year.

2024's NCAA Final Four matchup between UConn and Iowa was watched by 14.2 million people on ESPN.
Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers during the semifinal game between Iowa and UConn during the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament.
Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers during the semifinal game between Iowa and UConn during the 2024 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament.

Although Bueckers and UConn lost to Caitlin Clark and Iowa in the Final Four, the two teams attracted a record 14.2 million viewers.

ESPN reported that the game was the most-viewed women's basketball game on record and the largest audience for an ESPN basketball broadcast.

This record was broken just days later by the women's final, which drew an average of 18.7 million viewers with a peak of 24 million across ESPN and ABC, NPR reported, marking the first time the women's final was watched more than the men's.

When asked during the post-game press conference about a questionable call that may have determined the outcome of the game, Bueckers told reporters, "Everybody can make a big deal of that one single play, but not one single play wins a basketball game or loses a basketball game."

"I should have done a better job of making sure we didn't leave the game up to chance like that and leave the game up to one bad call going our way and that deciding it," she added.

She has worked with major brands like Nike, Gatorade, Bose, and Chegg.
UConn's Paige Bueckers prepares to shoot a free throw against Georgetown in January 2024.
UConn's Paige Bueckers prepares to shoot a free throw against Georgetown in January 2024.

Although her exact NIL valuation details are listed as "undisclosed" by On3, the site reports she has an annual value of $1 million.

One look at Bueckers' Instagram will likely make you believe her true value is much higher. For starters, Nike, Gatorade, Bose, StockX, and Chegg are all tagged in her bio.

She also has shared ads and partnerships with Go Army, CVS, Taco Bell, Dunkin', and Buick to her 1.6 million followers.

Bueckers went viral at the 2024 WNBA Draft, with fans on social media praising her style, dance moves, and cute "proud mom" moment.
Paige Bueckers at the 2024 WNBA Draft.
Paige Bueckers at the 2024 WNBA Draft.

TikTok blew up after seeing Bueckers' WNBA Draft outfit: an all-white Louis Vuitton look with a matching bag and gold accessories.

Her TikToks showcasing the look have a combined 30.3 million views and over 4 million likes.

And she didn't stop there; Bueckers also took some time to show off her dance moves with TikToker Janae Sims (better known as Auntie Nae) on the red carpet, garnering 5.2 million views, 889,000 likes, and 56,000 favorites before becoming everyone's favorite "proud mom" meme.

Bueckers posted photos from the night on her Instagram with the caption, "My hype woman era [sparkle emoji]."

She's already an early favorite for the No. 1 pick in next year's WNBA draft.
Paige Bueckers dribbles the ball during the 2024 NCAA Tournament semifinal game against Iowa.
Paige Bueckers dribbles the ball during the 2024 NCAA Tournament semifinal game against Iowa.

As some fans anticipate her final season at UConn, others are already looking ahead to the 2025 WNBA draft, where she's among the early favorites for the first overall pick, per CBS.

WNBA legend Diana Taurasi even said she'd build a WNBA team around Bueckers over Caitlin Clark, The Spun reported. The comments, which were made during an alternate broadcast of the NCAA Women's Final Four game between UConn and Iowa, received some backlash from fans.

Taurasi previously called Bueckers "the best player in basketball" during a 2021 interview with Togethxr, Business Insider reported.

From her talent on the court to her style and popularity off the court, it seems like the Paige Bueckers obsession era will last a long time.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Man sets himself on fire outside the courthouse where Trump is standing trial

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The aftermath of the scene outside of the Manhattan criminal courthouse where Donald Trump's trial is underway.
The aftermath of the scene outside of the Manhattan criminal courthouse where Donald Trump's trial is underway.
  • A man set himself on fire outside the Manhattan courthouse where Donald Trump stands trial.
  • The fire was spotted at a park across the street from the courthouse. 
  • It is unclear what prompted the self-immolation or the condition of the victim.

A man lit himself on fire Friday outside of the Manhattan courthouse where Donald Trump's criminal hush-money trial is taking place, witnesses and police sources told Business Insider.

The incident unfolded inside a barricaded area across the street from the Manhattan criminal courthouse where a full jury had just been seated in the former president's historic trial.

Emergency responders received a 911 call at 1:37 p.m. and paramedics rushed a man to a local hospital in critical condition, according to a New York Police Department spokesperson.

"There are no additional safety concerns at this time, and the investigation is ongoing," the spokesperson said.

Police later said during a 3 p.m. press conference that the man, who Business Insider is not identifying by name, is alive and intubated.

The man was standing in Collect Pond Park, located across the street from the courthouse, where a few pro-Trump demonstrators had been showing support for the former president.

One onlooker, who said he was walking by, told Business Insider that he noticed the man drop pamphlets on the ground and then turned to look.

"He took a can, and he poured it all over himself," the witness, who asked not to be named, said.

At that point, according to the witness, the man took out a lighter and lit himself on fire.

"He was on fire for a while," he said.

One police officer tried to extinguish the fire with a jacket but failed, another man at the scene said.

Eventually, someone ran over with a fire extinguisher, and officials loaded the man into an ambulance, he said.

Witnesses said people at the scene were screaming. The flames engulfed the man's entire body.

Before the fire, the man threw a couple dozen pamphlets titled, "The True History of the World."

A QR code on the pamphlets linked to a Substack post published around the time of the fire.

In the post, an individual claimed that he was the one to set himself on fire. The post was filled with conspiracy-filled thoughts about the American government.

"I am an investigative researcher who has set himself on fire outside of the Trump trial in Manhattan," he wrote.

The incident didn't interfere with Trump's ongoing trial, as the court was on a lunch break at the time.

"Not knowing the motivations behind this sickening situation, it's difficult to make any definitive remarks, other than to say we are thankful that to the best of our present knowledge, nobody other than the individual in question was hurt," Karoline Leavitt, a spokeswoman for the Trump Campaign, said in a statement provided to BI. "We also extend our condolences to the traumatized witnesses on the scene and offer our deepest gratitude to the great first responders of the City of New York for their actions."

Pivoting from the self-immolation outside the courthouse where the GOP frontrunner stands trial on charges related to hush-money payments to a porn star, back to the campaign, the statement continued: "Today is more proof that our nation is in deep trouble and that perhaps more than ever, we all must work to Make America Great Again."

This story is developing and will be updated.

Read the original article on Business Insider

QLED vs. OLED: Which TV display type is better?

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A Samsung QLED TV next to an LG OLED TV on an orange gradient background.
QLED and OLED TVs both have key strengths and weaknesses.

I've been reviewing home theater gear for more than a decade, and I test all the latest TVs every year. Though there are a few types of displays to choose from, two options consistently rank among the best TVs you can buy: QLED and OLED. 

When comparing QLED versus OLED, both options have pros and cons. QLEDs, like the TCL QM8, have an advantage in brightness and affordability, while OLEDs, like the Samsung S90C, have an edge in black-level quality and viewing angles. There are also a few subsets of each display type that you should be aware of since certain features can make a big difference in overall performance. 

To help explain all the technical jargon and make it easier for you to decide which TV type is right for you, I broke down all the ins and outs of each panel technology and put them head-to-head in a few key categories. Here's how the battle between QLED and OLED is shaping up in 2024. 

What is a QLED TV?

Waves crashing over rocks displayed on a TCL QM8 TV
The TCL QM8 is an example of a top QLED TV.

QLED TVs are a type of LCD (liquid crystal display) that incorporate a color technology called quantum dots into their screens. Like other LCD TVs, these displays rely on LED (light-emitting diode) backlights to illuminate their picture since each pixel can't emit light on its own. 

To get to the "QLED" branding, manufacturers simply married the "Q" from quantum dots with "LED." But, the "QLED" acronym is more of a marketing term than a truly distinct TV technology. In other words, when you buy a QLED TV, you're really buying an LED-backlit LCD that just happens to have quantum dots. That said, quantum dots are a cool feature and they can make a big difference when it comes to picture quality.

Quantum dots are nanocrystals that can emit different colors when exposed to light. QLED TVs include a layer or filter of quantum dots, which enables them to produce a wider and brighter range of colors than displays without quantum dots. QLED TVs are available from every major brand, including Samsung, Sony, TCL, Vizio, and Hisense. LG also sells TVs that incorporate aspects of QLED tech, but it brands them as "QNED."

QLED TVs may or may not include an additional feature called full-array local dimming. This feature enables a QLED to brighten or darken specific zones across its backlight to enhance its contrast and produce brighter highlights while maintaining deeper black levels. Some QLEDs even use Mini LEDs in their backlights rather than regular-sized LEDs, which allows them to have more dimming zones for more precise contrast control. 

Entry-level QLEDs with local dimming start at around 16 to 32 zones, while midrange models often have a couple hundred, and high-end options with Mini LED backlights can have over 1,000. But even with thousands of zones, local dimming on a QLED can't produce pixel-level contrast control since there are over eight million pixels in a 4K display.

What is an OLED TV?

The Samsung S90C television with an undersea shot on the screen, captured from the side.
Samsung's S90C is our favorite OLED TV.

OLED TVs use "organic light-emitting diode" panels. Unlike QLED TVs, which are a type of LCD, OLED TVs rely on an entirely different technology. 

Whereas a QLED TV requires a backlight in its screen to illuminate its pixels, OLED TVs don't need a backlight at all. Instead, each subpixel in an OLED panel can emit light. This enables perfect precision over contrast and black levels with the ability for each pixel to completely dim or brighten independently, something that QLEDs can't achieve.

OLED TVs are available in the US from LG, Sony, Samsung, and Sharp. There are a few different variations of OLED TV technology, but they all provide the same general contrast and black-level capabilities. However, certain types of OLED panels can offer different color and brightness performance. 

The standard type of OLED is called WRGB OLED, and this is the type of panel you'll find in most entry-level and midrange OLED TVs from LG and Sony. Compared to other OLED types, these panels tend to be the dimmest and can't reach the same color volume as more advanced OLEDs.

To help improve brightness, LG makes some WRGB OLEDs with an additional panel feature called MLA (Micro Lens Array) technology. MLA allows a WRGB OLED to get much brighter, and it's currently used in LG's high-end G3 and G4 OLED TVs.

Finally, there are also QD-OLED TVs to consider. The "QD" before OLED stands for quantum dots. Yep, that's right, this type of OLED incorporates quantum dots just like QLED TVs do. By using quantum dots in their panels, QD-OLEDs can achieve a brighter image with a wider range of colors than a WRGB OLED. Samsung sells various QD-OLED models like the S90C 4K TV, while Sony also uses the tech in its premium A95L 4K TV.  

QLED vs. OLED: Contrast and black levels

An LG G4 OLED displaying an image of a lion resting by a lake.
OLED TVs, like the LG G4, offer pixel-level contrast control for exceptional picture performance in a dark room.

Though some high-end QLEDs can get close, OLED TVs are still the kings of contrast and black levels, no matter which model you buy.  

Thanks to their self-illuminating pixels, OLEDs can achieve an infinite contrast ratio while producing perfect black levels since their pixels can completely turn off. QLEDs, on the other hand, rely on a backlight, which can cause black levels to look elevated while veering more toward a gray or even slightly blue appearance. This can give images an overall washed-out, milky, and flat look, especially when watching TV with the lights off. 

However, QLED models with local dimming can greatly reduce this issue, and there are several high-end options, like the Samsung QN90C and TCL QM8, that get remarkably close to producing OLED-like black levels. But even the best local dimming implementations still introduce side effects that OLED TVs don't suffer from. 

An image of burning candles displayed on a Samsung QN90D QLED TV
An example of blooming around candle flames on a QLED TV. (Note: The camera sensor exaggerates the appearance of blooming, so it's a bit less noticeable in person)

Most notably, local dimming can cause an issue called "blooming." This results in a halo-like effect around bright objects against dark backgrounds, like burning candles, since even top QLEDs simply don't have enough zones to dim every pixel surrounding these objects precisely. 

Blooming is usually hard to see when watching TV with the lights on, but it can be distracting when watching certain scenes in a dark room. Likewise, blooming becomes more noticeable when you sit off to the side of a QLED. 

Though manufacturers continue to make improvements with local dimming, for now, OLEDs still have a clear edge in the contrast and black-level department, and these picture quality attributes have the most dramatic impact on overall image performance. 

QLED vs. OLED: Brightness

A Samsung QN900D 8K TV displaying an in image of a cityscape in a living room.
Top QLED TVs, like Samsung's QN900D, can get brighter than any OLED model.

For a long time, top QLED TVs were the undisputed champs of brightness, but the gap between a high-end QLED and a high-end OLED has narrowed in the last two years. The most expensive QLEDs are still brighter than even the most advanced OLEDs, but high-end OLED TVs are no longer as dim as they once were.

When evaluating brightness on a TV, the industry uses a unit of measurement called a "nit." The more nits a TV can output, the brighter its image appears. Entry-level QLED TVs can hit about 250 to 400 nits of brightness, while midrange models offer around 600 to 1,000 nits, and high-end QLEDs can achieve 2,000 to 2,500 nits. The upcoming Sony 2024 Bravia 9 QLED TV is expected to hit an even higher number, with a peak of around 4,000 nits.  

On the other hand, entry-level OLED models are capable of 500 to 700 nits, while midrange models can hit 800 to 1,000 nits, and the very best OLED TVs can max out at around 1,400 to 1,700 nits. So, even at their brightest, top OLEDs are still about 600 to 800 nits dimmer than a typical high-end QLED.

High brightness is most handy when watching TV in a room that lets in a lot of light since pumping up the brightness can help overcome glare and reflections. Likewise, high brightness enables a TV to accurately reproduce high-dynamic-range movies and TV shows with the full intensity that filmmakers intended. 

Most HDR content is graded for a max of 1,000 nits, so ideally, you want a TV that can get as close to that peak as possible. Some movies are graded for an even brighter peak of 4,000 nits, which is where top QLEDs have an advantage over OLEDs. For more info about high dynamic range formats and display technology, check out our HDR TV guide

Ultimately, most OLED TVs can still get bright enough for an average room, and their pixel-level contrast helps them deliver exceptional HDR performance even if some especially bright objects look a little dimmer than they would on a QLED. But, if you want the absolute brightest image you can get, a high-end QLED TV will yield the best results. 

QLED vs. OLED: Color performance

An image of a lake at sunset on a Samsung QN90D QLED TV resting on an entertainment stand in a living room.
Many QLED TVs have a slight edge over OLEDs when displaying bright colors

Regarding color, OLED and QLED TVs offer very similar performance. That said, high-end QLEDs have a slight edge.

Thanks to quantum dot technology, the best QLED TVs can provide a wide spectrum of colors, along with high color volume, which enables those colors to look very bright when called for. Meanwhile, all OLED TVs, even those without quantum dots, can also achieve an equally wide spectrum of colors, but color volume isn't as high on an OLED as it is on a QLED. 

QD-OLED TVs, which also use quantum dots, can offer higher color volume than a regular OLED, but they still can't match the color volume of a premium QLED TV. Ultimately, this means that some extremely bright colors may look dimmer than they're supposed to on an OLED, while they'll get closer to their intended vibrancy on a top QLED TV.

QLED vs. OLED: Viewing angles

A scene featuring across a mountain range displayed on a Samsung S95C TV in a bright room.
OLED TVs have exceptional viewing angles so you can sit to the side of the display without any loss of image quality.

All OLED TVs offer better viewing angles than even the best QLED models. This means you can sit off to the side of an OLED display without seeing any major shifts in color, contrast, or overall picture quality. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for a QLED TV.

Though there are certain QLED panel types and screen filters that can help reduce this problem, many QLED TVs suffer from poor viewing angles. This is especially true on entry-level and midrange models from budget-friendly brands like TCL and Hisense. While image quality looks great on these TVs when sitting in a centered position, colors fade and black levels distort if you move off to the side. 

Some LG and Samsung QLED TVs, like the QN90C, are much better at handling off-axis viewing than cheaper options. But even those models are inferior to the wider viewing angles of an OLED TV. If you want the same picture quality no matter where you sit in your room, an OLED TV is the display type to go with.  

QLED vs. OLED: Burn-in

Jamo speakers and an LG OLED TV in a living room
I haven't encountered any hints of burn-in on my LG OLED TV after more than two years of use.

Burn-in is an issue that can occur on some displays when you leave a static image on the screen for an extended period of time. When burn-in happens, a faint outline of the static image gets stuck on your display. 

Though QLED TVs are not 100% protected from this problem, cases of burn-in on a QLED are so uncommon that they're not considered to be at risk. The same can't be said about an OLED TV. Burn-in can occur on an OLED in extreme cases if you don't take the proper precautions.

For instance, if you frequently watch the same cable network with a big static logo at the bottom of the screen all day long without ever changing the channel, you could eventually encounter an issue with burn-in. But while viewers should be mindful of this, all OLED TVs have built-in features designed to reduce the risk of burn-in, including pixel-refreshers, pixel-shift modes, and logo dimmers. 

I've had an LG CX OLED TV for more than two years. I use it to watch cable TV, stream movies, and play video games (with lots of static elements), and the screen shows no signs of burn-in. QLEDs do have the advantage here since burn-in isn't something QLED owners ever need to think about, but I don't think people with regular viewing habits should consider the idea of burn-in to be a dealbreaker when deciding whether to buy an OLED.

QLED vs OLED: Price

The home screen of the Google TV smart interface on the Hisense U6K.
Budget QLED TVs, like the Hisense U6K, are much more affordable than entry-level OLED models.

Compared to OLED TVs, QLEDs are available across a wider range of budgets, with more affordable entry-level and midrange options to choose from. 

You can find budget-friendly 65-inch QLED TVs, like the Hisense U6K, for under $500 and midrange models for around $650 to $1,000. Meanwhile, the cheapest 65-inch OLED TVs start at around $1,200, and midrange options start at around $1,600. Once you jump up to larger screen sizes, the price difference between QLED and OLED models gets even more dramatic.  

However, it's important to note that image quality varies much more across different QLED models depending on which budget class you buy, while the difference between an entry-level OLED and a premium OLED's picture performance is far less substantial. 

The bottom line

A Samsung S95D OLED displaying an image of a popping champagne bottle.
OLED TVs still offer the ultimate movie-watching experience in a dark room.

QLED and OLED TVs each have pros and cons, with OLEDs having an edge in contrast and viewing angles, and QLEDs having an edge in brightness and color volume. Ultimately, which is right for your needs really comes down to what you prioritize most, how much you want to spend, and what kind of room you plan to put your TV in.

When it comes to overall picture quality, an OLED's superior black-level performance and infinite contrast ratio offer a more noticeable benefit than any of a QLED's unique strengths, especially if you like to watch movies with the lights off. However, top QLED TVs can be better suited for bright rooms and you can find a larger assortment of affordable midrange models to choose from so long as you're willing to step down in performance.  

Consider an OLED TV if ...

  • You want the best movie-watching experience in a dark room
  • You want an infinite contrast ratio with perfect black levels
  • You want wide viewing angles so you get great picture quality no matter where you sit
  • You're willing to spend top dollar, especially at larger screen sizes

Consider a QLED TV if ...

  • You want an extra-bright display to combat glare in a well-lit room
  • You want the brightest colors and most intense HDR highlights
  • You want more budget-friendly options to choose from, albeit with downgraded performance
  • You don't want to ever think twice about burn-in
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The 20 absolute best white T-shirts for women, from casual crewnecks to trendy crop tops

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Three side-by-side photos of white t-shirts on models.

You'll realize how much you took your favorite plain white T-shirt for granted the moment you spill coffee down its front and are left without one. And though it may not seem like a hard thing to replace, you'll find that you actually do have a preference between eggshell and vanilla white or fitted versus flowy.

Our team tested the best white t-shirts for women, including crewnecks, V-necks, scoopnecks, and more. Our absolute favorite is Everlane's The Organic Cotton Box-Cut Crew, which has a slightly cropped hem that pairs perfectly with high-waisted jeans.

The wrinkle-resistant Quince Cotton Modal V Neck Tee is another excellent choice, with a neckline that flatters the décolletage — plus, it costs just $15. See more of our style editor-approved women's basics clothing brands for quality wardrobe essentials we rely on.

Everlane The Organic Cotton Box-Cut Tee
Everlane Cotton Box Cut Tee

Pros: Available with or without pocket

Cons: Slight crop may be too short for long midriffs

After trying about 20 other versions to find the perfect slightly-cropped tee, Reviews executive editor Sally Kaplan calls this one her ultimate favorite white T-shirt for women. "Overall, it's just a little more relaxed, with a very slight crop that gives it a more updated look. It has an effortlessly casual feel to it, and a versatile silhouette that can be worn with anything from leggings to jeans to leather skirts, and everything in between," she says. Even better: you can choose to go with or without a pocket, and there's no change in price. 

Read more in our full Everlane Box Cut white T-Shirt review.

Madewell Northside Vintage Tee
woman standing in front of white background wearing short sleeve white crew neck tee with blue jean shorts

Pros: Inclusive size range, pre-shrunken fit 

Cons: No returns or exchanges

The Northside Vintage Tee is one of Madewell's bestsellers. The tee was designed to imitate the appearance of an old worn tee that's been shrunken from hundreds of washes over the years, resulting in the perfect fitted-to-slouchy ratio.

Everlane Organic Cotton Crew
woman models Everlane Organic Cotton Crew t-shirt

Pros: Lightweight, breathable fabric

Cons: In stock sizes vary, slightly sheer

Everlane is King of Basics as far as direct-to-consumer brands go, so it's not a surprise that the brand has nailed the basic white T-shirt. The Cotton Crew is the standout of its offerings and features a basic crew neck opening with a slim, but not tight, fit. Manufactured in Vietnam, The Organic Cotton Crew is made of 100% lightweight Supima cotton, retails for $30, and is also available in off-white. Thanks to Everlane's model of transparency, you can check out a profile of the factory where your T-shirt was made.

Cotton Citizen Standard Tee
woman standing in front of white background wearing white tee with raw edges around the crew neckline and sleeves. Woman is also wearing black denim drawstring joggers.

Pros: Soft fabric, perfect base layer

Cons: Expensive, limited size range

The Cotton Citizen Standard Tee is inspired by the overworn tee you've had forever. Despite its relaxed fit and raw edges, the tee offers a bit of structure in the way that it holds its shape all day. With a price tag of $80 and a wide range of both permanent and seasonal colors, the tee falls short when it comes to its limited size inclusivity. 

Quince Cotton Modal V Neck Tee
A person wearing the Quince Cotton Modal V Neck Tee.

Pros: Made with eco-friendly dyes

Cons: None to speak of

Quince has consistently impressed us with clothes are surprisingly high quality considering their pricepoint. This no-fuss V-neck is made with a cotton-modal blend, which is more wrinkle resistant and smooth to the touch than pure cotton. When you stock up on three at a time, you can earn $10 off your next Quince purchase. 

Read more about their affordable luxury fabrics in our full Quince review

Amazon Essentials Women's Classic Fit Short Sleeve V-Neck T-Shirt
woman models amazon essentials classic fit t-shirt

Pros: Stretchy fabric

Cons: Only available in bundles

Buying white tees in a pack is the secret behind stretching their longevity. This bundle from Amazon Essentials offers two tees for the price of one in a comfortable fit and V-shaped neckline. My advice? Choose between a pack of two or four at checkout and rotate them between washes.

Pact Softspun V-Neck Tee
woman standing in front of white background wearing short sleeve white v neck with a slightly relaxed fit. Her hands are tucked in the pockets of her charcoal grey joggers with white drawstrings tie in a bow.

Pros: Made in a Fair Trade Factory

Cons: None to speak of

Made with organic cotton in a fair trade factory, and priced accessibly at $24, Pact's basic crew neck proves that sustainable can be affordable and super comfy too. And because we know the hardest part about preserving the best white T-shirts for women is keeping them clean, the Softspun V-Neck Tee can be bought in packs of three for $60. It's available in 13 different colors and striped patterns.

Everlane Supima Micro-Rib Crew Tee
Woman wearing fitted short sleeve white tee tucked into black high waisted slim fit denim, black booties, and a black belt with a silver buckle. Woman stands with one hand in pocket in front of white background

Pros: Sleek, fitted look

Cons: Slightly sheer

The Everlane Supima Micro-Rib Crew Tee fits snug around the arms and stretches around the body for a close, yet non restrictive fit. Tuck this tee into a pair of high-waisted mom jeans or pleated work pants to take any look from casual to effortlessly sleek. Available in five additional neutral toned colors from black to Chambray Blue, going back for another shade or two wouldn't be such a bad idea.

Cuts Clothing Tomboy Tee
White t-shirt on model

Pros: Pre-shrunk, stretchy, non-see through

Cons: Expensive

Cuts Clothing is popular among stylists and star athletes alike. Atlanta-based wardrobe consultant Kenzie Welch says her favorite quality white T-shirt is their Tomboy Tee, which she tested among at least 50 others. 

"Some of my biggest issues with T-shirts is how they get a shriveled-up neckline," Welch said. "I've had mine for over two years, and it looks brand new." 

SKIMS Soft Smoothing Seamless T-Shirt
A person wearing the SKIMS Soft Smoothing Seamless T-Shirt.

Pros: Size inclusive options

Cons: Some reviewers report the fitted hemline is prone to rolling up

If you're looking to modernize your basics with more trendy silhouettes, SKIMS has comfortable loungewear with a feminine flair. This top-selling fitted tee is made with soft, stretchy fabric that clings to your curves with a light compressive effect. 

Read about another popular SKIMS style we've tried in our full SKIMS bodysuit review

Mott & Bow Marcy Fitted Crew
Woman models fitted white t-shirt

Pros: Available in bundles and off-white colorway

Cons: None to speak of

I don't always advocate spending more than $20 for basics, but if you're looking to invest in a white T-shirt that will last nearly forever while looking and feeling great, consider the Mott & Bow Marcy Fitted Crew. It's preshrunk for the perfect fit right from the box and is just the right length for tucking into a pair of jeans or trousers. Because it won't shift sizes in the wash, it's safe to get your true size.

Richer Poorer Relaxed Crop Tee
A person wearing the Richer Poorer Relaxed Crop Tee.

Pros: Heavyweight fabric, wide neck rib

Cons: Pigment dye may lose its vibrancy over time

Richer Poorer's specialty is comfortable leisurewear with a difference in quality you can feel. This slightly cropped tee has relaxed, dropped shoulders and a wide neck rib, so you can fit it over your hair and makeup without messing them up. 

Read more about our favorite pieces we've tested in our full Richer Poorer review

Cotton Citizen Tokyo Crop Tee
woman standing in front of white background wearing a white oversized cropped tee with black denim drawstring joggers.

Pros: Cropped length perfect for pairing with high-waisted pants

Cons: Expensive, limited sized range

This tee doesn't hold its shape but is just as boxy as our other picks for the best white T-shirts for women. Instead, the Cotton Citizen Tokyo Crop Tee is made of a jersey material that catches the wind when you're on the go. Unlike its luxury price tag that retails for $90, the tee is made to resemble an old overworn shirt that's been stretched at the neck and has survived multiple washes.

Re/Done Heritage Cotton 1950s Boxy Tee
Re Done Tee

Pros: Available in stark white and off-white, made in the USA

Cons: Expensive, limited size range

Compared to our other cropped picks, the high-low hem on this vintage-inspired tee made in collaboration with Hanes is a bit more modest. While the front exposes the belt loops on your jeans, the front brushes up against the tops of your back pockets.

Mother Denim The Lil Goodie Goodie
A person wearing the Mother Denim The Lil Goodie Goodie white tee.

Pros: Not too loose, not too fitted

Cons: Limited size range

The Lil Goodie Goodie crewneck is part of the Mother Denim "Cry No More" essential tee collection. It's a simple, stark white tee that perfectly offsets a pair of statement jeans. This slim-fitting tee is made in Los Angeles, CA with a breathable cotton fabric that makes a great base layer. 

 

Vince Wide Sleeve Tee
woman standing in front of white background wearing a white oversized crew neck tee with large short sleeves. Woman wears light colored handbag on her shoulder, light-washed straight leg distressed denim with white slip on sandals.

Pros: Long half sleeves

Cons: May be too lightweight for cold weather

The Vince Wide Sleeve Tee is a crew neck tee that lays loosely everywhere else. From the sleeves to the hem, the lightweight jersey doesn't cling or mold to the body. Layer this tee with a chunky knit cardigan or an oversized aviator jacket to put together a look that seems effortless casual. You can play around with the slouch level by ordering a size or two up or down.

Michael Costello Emery Top
woman standing in front of white background in white crew neck cropped tee with wide padded shoulders and symmetrical side ruching. She wears a nude highwaisted ribbed skirt with a brown leather clutch in hand.

Pros: Ruching detail, padded shoulders

Cons: Limited sizes in stock

A bit pricey, but with good reason, the Michael Costello tee makes for a great night out top. Pair it with high-waisted jeans and comfortable heels for brunch, or with a maxi skirt and statement jewelry for dinner. The ruching on each side crops the top slightly while accentuating your frame for a feminine take on a classic white tee. While its varying proportions from the padded shoulders to the side ruching can affect overall fit, customers report that the top still fits true to size.

The Universal Standard Tee Rex
Person wearing a universal standard tee rex shirt in white with jeans

Pros: Soft, stretchy fabric

Cons: Fitted sleeves

Available in sizes from 00 to 40, Universal Standard boasts the biggest size range of any brand on this list. The Tee Rex is one of our favorite white T-shirts for women because it checks all the boxes: a slightly oversized fit, soft fabric, simple silhouette, and comfortable construction. I tried this tee and loved the feel of this fabric and the shape of the shirt — the curved hem is perfect for tucking into jeans. Ultimately, I probably would have sized up so the sleeves were a little looser, but that's all a matter of preference.

Read more in our full Universal Standard Tee Rex T-shirt review.

Hollister Oversized Crew T-Shirt
The Hollister Oversized Crew T-Shirt.

Pros: Affordable

Cons: Prone to wrinkles

If it's been some time since you've revisited those mall hot spots from your school-age years, let this be an opportunity to do so. Hollister's loungewear collection is surprisingly well rounded, with quality basics that compliment any wardrobe. This oversized crewneck is plenty spacious and has a subtly off-white hue. 

Askk NY Boy Tee
woman is standing in front of white background with oversized white crew neck tee and light washed baggy blue jeans and black strappy kitten heels.

Pros: Wide, drapey silhouette

Cons: Prone to shrinking on first wash

As the name suggests, this tee looks like it's fresh off the rack in the men's department. The drop sleeves, wide silhouette and lengthened torso give off big masculine energy, but it's all about how you wear it. Let it drape loosely over your favorite shade of biker shorts with your go-to sneaker for a comfy, youthful look. Because Askk NY converts their sizing to numbers, take a look at the sizing chart to determine which option will fit you best.

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Taylor Swift's 'The Tortured Poets Department' ends with an ode to Clara Bow. The silent film star's family thinks it's a 'hauntingly beautiful' homage.

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Silent movie star Clara Bow lends her name to the closing track of Taylor Swift's "The Tortured Poets Department."
Silent movie star Clara Bow lends her name to the closing track of Taylor Swift's "The Tortured Poets Department."
  • Taylor Swift's new studio album, "The Tortured Poets Department," has been released.
  • The last track on the standard edition of the album is named "Clara Bow" after the silent film star.
  • The actor's great-granddaughters spoke exclusively to BI about hearing the song for the first time.

"You look like Clara Bow in this light" is how Taylor Swift begins the closing track of the standard edition of her latest album, "The Tortured Poets Department," which was released on Friday.

The song, itself titled "Clara Bow," is an intimate, guitar-led number that sees Swift recalling conversations with suited-up music executives who compare her to trailblazing, somewhat similar-looking women who came before her.

First, there's Bow herself, the 1920s movie star who broke the Hollywood mold with her unrivaled confidence and candor both on and off screen. This is followed in the second verse by "You look like Stevie Nicks in '75" (the Fleetwood Mac frontwoman has coincidentally written a poem for Swift in the liner notes of physical copies of the album).

It's not hard to see why Swift has been told she looks like either Bow or Nicks; at different points across her three-decade-spanning career, Swift has borne physical resemblances to each of them (think: her unruly curly hair and arched screen-siren eyebrows in her "Fearless" days, and her "Red"-era bangs and boho-inspired fashion choices).

But beyond what she's been told by others, by naming the song "Clara Bow," Swift appears to be signaling an affinity with the original "It" girl whose career reached its apex almost a century ago.

That's certainly how Bow's family — who are more than delighted that the world's biggest pop star has decided to name a track after their late ancestor — has interpreted the song.

"Clara Bow was someone who was unapologetically herself and I think Taylor can say the same of herself," Brittany Grace Bell, one of Bow's great-granddaughters, told Business Insider. "In the song, she sings, 'In a town of fakes, you're the real thing,' and I think she's referring to both herself and Clara. They're not afraid to be themselves and rise above the noise."

Bell's cousin and another one of Bow's great-granddaughters, Nicole Sisneros, who also spoke to BI, said she "felt chills" hearing the song for the first time this week.

"It is hauntingly beautiful the way Taylor uses her songwriting ability and her artistry to draw parallels between Clara's life and her own. It's a really beautiful testament to both of their legacies," she added.

Clara Bow photographed in 1926 at the height of her fame as a silent film star.
Clara Bow photographed in 1926 at the height of her fame as a silent film star.

While Sisneros said that both she and Bell, who are the granddaughters of Bow's son Rex Bell Jr., "fell in love with the song" as soon as they heard it, they were apprehensive given that Bow's legacy often gets reduced to its most "salacious" elements.

"It's so easy to sensationalize someone's life and focus on the hardships, and that's truly what happened to Clara her whole life," Sisneros said, referring to the tabloid obsession with Bow's troubled upbringing, broken engagements, and mental health struggles, which eventually led her to be dubbed "Crisis-a-day-Clara" by her manager, B.P. Schulberg, according to biographer David Stenn.

As Sisneros pointed out, Swift also "faces constant scrutiny," which she thinks meant Swift was able to "really separate what's sensationalized and speculation and focus on the true beauty of an individual."

One misconception Bell was keen to point out is the narrative that Bow was "pushed out of Hollywood" at age 28. "It isn't true," she said. "She left on her own accord as she wanted to live the rest of her life and raise her children so she retired out on a ranch in Nevada."

Clara Bow with her husband, Rex Bell, and two sons, including Nicole Sisneros and Brittany Grace Bell's grandfather, Rex Bell Jr.
Clara Bow with her husband, Rex Bell, and two sons, including Nicole Sisneros and Brittany Grace Bell's grandfather, Rex Bell Jr.

This is far from the first time Swift has drawn musical inspiration from historical pop-culture icons. In her discography, she's given a shout-out to Golden Age Hollywood couple Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, written a whole song about Rebekah Harkness, the eccentric 1940s socialite and composer who once owned Swift's Rhode Island home, and dedicated a track to Kennedy family matriarch Ethel Kennedy.

"Taylor is a master at digging. I think looking into the history of Hollywood, certainly, she would have come across Clara Bow and connected with her as an artist and being focused on her raw talent," Sisneros theorized.

"She was probably looking to draw inspiration from people of the past who would consider themselves tortured poets," Bell pointed out. "Clara was a poet and able to speak poetry through her, her acting; Taylor's a poet through her songwriting."

Although Swift did not reach out to the cousins before the release of the song ("We hope that somehow we could connect," Sisneros said), both have long been admirers of her discography.

taylor swift the tortured poets department standard album cover
"The Tortured Poets Department" was released on April 19.

Sisneros took her eldest daughter to Swift's The Eras Tour during its stopover at Las Vegas' Allegiant Stadium last year. Bell couldn't make it, as she was heavily pregnant with her daughter at the time, but in a "fun connection," her daughter turned one the same day as the release of "The Tortured Poets Department."

Ultimately, for Sisneros and Bell, Swift's immortalization of their great-grandmother in "Clara Bow" is a gift they can hand down to future generations.

They think Bow would have loved Swift, too, referencing something Bow once said about Marilyn Monroe, which Bell thinks could equally apply to the pop star.

"I never met Marilyn Monroe, but if I had, I would have tried very hard to help her. A sex symbol is a heavy load to carry when one is tired, hurt, and bewildered," Bow is quoted as saying in Stenn's biography, "Clara Bow: Runnin' Wild."

"I feel like she would say the same thing about Taylor," Bell concluded. "I think she would feel a nurturing sense over Taylor as today's 'It' girl."

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House Republicans have a wacky new plan to finally pass Ukraine aid — and force a sale of TikTok

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Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and House Speaker Mike Johnson
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has been threatening to call a vote on ousting Speaker Mike Johnson if he approves more Ukraine aid.
  • For months, Israel and Ukraine aid have stalled in the House. That's about to change.
  • Speaker Johnson is planning separate votes on the aid in order to ease GOP opposition.
  • He's also including a bill that gives TikTok's Chinese owners one year to sell off the app.

For months, the House has been sitting on a bill that would provide aid to Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, and humanitarian funding for Gaza.

That's about to change on Saturday.

House Speaker Mike Johnson — working with House Democrats — is holding separate votes on aid to Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan, along with a bill that would force TikTok's Chinese owners to sell the app within the year.

It's a modified version of a $95.3 billion aid package that passed the Senate by a strong bipartisan margin in February. In an effort to deal with increasingly complicated politics on both Ukraine and Israel aid, he's holding separate votes on each component, then bundling it up and sending it to the Senate.

All of this is happening as Johnson contends with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene's threat to call a vote on his ouster if he allows more Ukraine aid to pass.

Here's what's in the four bills

The contents of the four bills largely mirror the contents of the Senate-passed bill, just broken into parts. Each will receive an individual vote.

Israel aid: $26.38 billion total, including $14.1 billion in military aid to Israel, $2.4 billion for US military operations in the Middle East, and $9.2 billion in humanitarian aid for Gaza. Funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) remains prohibited following a report that some employees participated in the October 7 Hamas attack, a move likely to anger progressives.

Ukraine aid: $60.84 billion total, $23.2 billion of which will go toward replenishing US weapons stockpiles. It also allows the aid to Ukraine to be structured as a loan.

Taiwan aid and Indo-Pacific military funding: $8.12 billion total, including $3.3 billion for US submarine infrastructure, $2 billion in military aid for Taiwan, and $1.9 billion to replenish US weapons already given to Taiwan and other countries.

TikTok bill and other provisions: A package that includes a recently passed bill to force the sale of the popular app TikTok, a bill to confiscate Russian assets, and more. In contrast to a version of the TikTok bill that passed the House last month, this one would extend the amount of time for the sale to roughly a year, easing some senators' concerns.

Many Republicans oppose Ukraine aid, while Democrats are increasingly skeptical of Israel aid

Johnson's plan is aimed at addressing two separate pockets of opposition to the foreign aid package.

After October 7, the Biden administration and Senate leaders insisted on tying Israel and Ukraine aid together, with the idea being that including Israel aid would incentivize Republicans to swallow more Ukraine aid.

Republicans, hoping to avoid that, have made numerous attempts at passing Israel aid on its own, but they've either failed or been stalled in the Democratic-controlled Senate.

Democrats unanimously support Ukraine aid, and there are plenty of Republicans — including Johnson, a former Ukraine skeptic — who feel the same, meaning a majority of the House would vote to approve it.

But as the war in Gaza has unfolded, and the Democratic base has increasingly turned against the war as civilian casualties mount, Democrats have grown to be either outright opposed to the Israel aid or supportive of conditions.

Johnson's plan is designed to allow progressive Democrats to vote against Israel aid, while hard-right Republicans can vote against the Ukraine aid — all while allowing the whole package to move forward.

Nancy Pelosi pulled off a version of this back in 2007

There's some precedent for what Johnson's trying to do here.

After retaking the House in 2007, Democrats faced pressure to continue funding the War in Iraq — but most House Democrats were opposed to that.

To solve the issue, then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi tied the funding to an increase to the federal minimum wage, while keeping the votes separate.

Thus, Democrats got a win — increasing the minimum wage by $2.10 — while Iraq war funding passed the House and made it to then-President George W. Bush's desk.

The hard-right is still furious, and Johnson could face a vote to oust him

Many hard-right Republicans remain opposed to this plan, and on Tuesday, Greene won a new ally: Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who is co-sponsoring the Georgia congresswoman's "motion to vacate" and is now calling on Johnson to resign.

Of course, both Greene and Massie are outliers among House Republicans — they were the only two lawmakers to vote against every single Russia-related bill following the start of the Ukraine war in 2022 — but Johnson has little room for error given Republicans' dwindling vote margin.

Several Democrats have said they would oppose an effort to oust Johnson, a break from their unanimous support for Kevin McCarthy's ouster in October.

But all of this depends on what happens on Saturday, and if the aid is actually passed.

"In the absence of an organized, logical demonstration of leadership, I'm not making any promises," said Democratic Rep. Abigail Spanberger of Virginia, who previously indicated a willingness to save Johnson in exchange for more Ukraine aid.

It's all likely to pass both chambers and be signed into law

While Democrats and some Republicans have generally expressed some skepticism about the plan, they're willing to do whatever it takes to get the foreign aid package approved.

Ultimately, there are majorities in the House and Senate for each component of this bill — it's just that the coalitions behind them are different.

The Senate is likely to take up votes on the combined package sometime next week, and President Joe Biden has said he will sign it into law.

That means Ukraine is going to get the help it needs to continue fighting, Israel will get the military aid that some progressives have called for Biden to halt, and TikTok will have roughly a year to be sold off — or it will be banned in the United States.

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Super Micro Computer stock crashes 23%, drags down AI darling Nvidia after it doesn't preannounce earnings

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  • Super Micro Computer stock crashed 23% on Friday after the company announced the date of its Q3 earnings.
  • Wall Street seemed disappointed that Super Micro Computer did not preannounce earnings like it did last year.
  • The sharp decline dragged down AI darling Nvidia, which plunged about 10%.

Super Micro Computer stock crashed as much as 23% on Friday as investors worry about the strength of its upcoming earnings report.

Super Micro Computer announced it would release its third-quarter earnings results on April 30, but it didn't preannounce earnings as it did for its second-quarter earnings results in January.

Companies often preannounce earnings when the results are significantly above Wall Street consensus estimates.

That lack of an earnings preannouncement from Super Micro Computer sparked concerns on Wall Street that the company's upcoming earnings report won't be as robust as it was last quarter and could ultimately miss analyst expectations.

Super Micro Computer did not offer Wall Street "a positive preannouncement, which is being considered a negative," Wells Fargo Securities wrote on Friday, according to Bloomberg.

The company has experienced insane growth over the past year, as demand for its AI-equipped servers has soared. The stock, which surged more than 1,000% in a year, was catapulted into the S&P 500 from the small-cap Russell 2000 index earlier this year. 

Nvidia chips are installed in Super Micro Computer's server solutions, so investors appear to be extrapolating the potential weakness in Super Micro Computer's upcoming earnings report to Nvidia.

Shares of Nvidia plunged as much as 10%, resulting in a market cap decline of $183 billion. 

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