Inflation stories
Australia's net zero goal faces fresh strain as billions flow into data centres that could lift power demand, water use and emissions.
Australian shoppers facing tighter budgets are being drawn to Amazon's biggest annual discount event, which covers hundreds of thousands of items.
Cost-of-living pressures are pushing Australians to delay buys, with 80% waiting for major sales events and Prime Day shaping decisions.
Households may get relief from broadband bill rises as eligible Superloop users can fix plan prices and speeds for two years for AUD $25.
Rising living costs are pushing 71% of online shoppers to compare more options and cross-check purchases across more channels before buying.
Unemployment held above the Reserve Bank of Australia's forecast in May, keeping interest rate markets guessing despite a 40,300 jobs rebound.
Strained household budgets and rising use of AI search are forcing brands to offer clearer value if they want Australians to stay loyal.
Procurement teams are under pressure to cut costs as Amazon Business reports strong first-year growth and launches AI buying tools in Australia.
Higher housing and wage pressures are keeping Australian inflation too hot for the Reserve Bank to rule out another rate rise as soon as November.
Broader portfolios could help investors navigate US equity concentration, private credit stress and persistent inflationary pressures, MFS said.
Priced below many rivals, the wired pad targets Xbox and PC players seeking Hall-effect sticks and rear buttons without a premium tag.
Rising conflict risk is pushing energy prices and inflation back into boardroom talks, even as AI stayed in 53% of earnings calls.
Higher energy costs are squeezing household budgets, but digital commerce and brisk business investment are helping keep growth steady at 2.4% in 2026.
Pay-later use for essentials is rising as Canadians face higher grocery bills and turn to discount chains to stretch budgets.
Rising living costs are pushing New Zealand shoppers to compare prices, reviews and product details across AI, social media and search.
The Florida optical shop lifted revenue by 16% after owner Lea Agramonte used free training to tighten budgets and adopt digital tools.
Rewards are now swaying 91% of US shoppers to buy again, with Amazon Prime, Walmart+ and Starbucks Rewards topping loyalty rankings.
Younger consumers are shaping retail deal days, with Gen Z and Millennials far more likely than Boomers to use AI tools and spend more.
Stronger wholesale networks could help shield Irish consumers and SMEs from supply shocks as tighter margins and disruption bite across the food chain.
Household finances are under growing strain as repayment rates fall and missed payments rise, with balances matching a record high.