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Consumers Supply Distributing, LLC, is recalling specific dog treat products because of salmonella concerns. The recall affects treats sold in seven states, but no health issues have been reported yet. The recall is a precaution based on FDA testing.
Key Facts
The recall involves 4-pound bags of Country Vet Biscuits-Original Meaty Flavor and Heartland Harvest Dog Biscuits-Meaty Flavor with Chicken.
The concern is potential salmonella contamination, a type of bacteria that can cause illness in pets and humans.
Affected products have a lot code number of 40906513 and UPC numbers 899623000463 and 840227340691.
The treats were sold in Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Montana, and Nebraska.
The recall resulted from FDA routine testing that found the bacteria in the products.
No illnesses have been reported so far.
Consumers are advised to stop using the treats and return them to the store for a refund.
Customers with questions can contact the company for more information.
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IRS CEO Frank Bisignano says that Americans are expected to receive the largest tax refunds ever in 2026. This prediction is linked to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which aims to lower taxes and increase refunds, though it may also increase the national debt.
Key Facts
The IRS predicts the largest tax refunds in U.S. history will occur in 2026.
President Trump's administration points to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) as the reason for higher refunds.
OBBBA is expected to benefit middle-class Americans and Social Security recipients with reduced taxes.
Critics say the bill could increase the national debt by at least $3.4 trillion.
A report found the average tax refund in 2026 could be about $3,800, up from $3,052 in 2025.
Larger refunds stem from unchanged tax withholding following the bill's passage.
The IRS has set the tax filing deadline for April 15 next year.
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Thousands of jobs at Petrofac, an energy services company, are likely to be saved after its asset solutions business was bought by U.S. company CB&I. Petrofac employs about 3,000 people in the U.K., with a large number in Aberdeen, Scotland. The company had gone into administration due to financial setbacks, including a failed contract and prior investigations.
Key Facts
Petrofac employs around 3,000 people in the U.K., with about 2,000 in Aberdeen.
The firm faced financial trouble due to a failed renewables contract and other issues.
U.S.-based CB&I will buy Petrofac's asset solutions business in early 2026.
The deal is expected to secure jobs for Petrofac's employees.
Petrofac was once a major company, worth approximately £6 billion in 2012.
The company's troubles included a Serious Fraud Office investigation and profit warnings.
CB&I and Petrofac have similar management styles and focus on safety.
Petrofac provides services for oil, gas, and renewables projects and has operations in the North Sea.
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The rise of weight-loss drugs like GLP-1 is affecting gyms in the U.S., with uncertainty about whether users will exercise more or less. Gyms are adapting by offering specialized programs and partnerships related to these drugs to attract and support users.
Key Facts
About 1 in 8 U.S. adults have used GLP-1 drugs for diabetes or weight loss.
It is unclear if these drugs will increase or decrease gym attendance.
Some gyms, like Life Time, are introducing programs to guide members in exercise and diet while using GLP-1s.
Life Time has a program called Miora, providing personalized plans, including the use of GLP-1 medications.
Planet Fitness is exploring partnerships with GLP-1 providers to integrate fitness with drug use.
Gold's Gym offers GLP-1 discounts through a partnership with Idexa360.
Equinox provides training programs for users experiencing weight loss.
Gen Z shows more interest in strength training, leading some gyms to adjust equipment offerings.
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BetMGM is offering new users the chance to use a bonus code for betting on NBA and NFL Christmas Day games. The company offers two types of bonuses depending on the user's location: a $150 bonus with a winning $10 bet in certain states, or a $1,500 safety net for larger bets available in other states.
Key Facts
BetMGM offers a bonus code for new users betting on NBA and NFL games on Christmas Day.
Users in specific states like MI, NJ, PA, or WV can get a $150 bonus after a winning $10 bet.
In other eligible states, users can get a refund up to $1,500 if they lose a bet of that amount.
To use the bonus, create an account, enter the code, and place the initial bet.
NBA Christmas games include matchups like Cavaliers vs. Knicks and Mavericks vs. Warriors.
NFL Christmas games include games like Cowboys vs. Commanders and Lions vs. Vikings.
BetMGM also provides betting odds for each NBA game on Christmas Day.
Users need to utilize any bonuses within one week before they expire.
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A Powerball player in Arkansas won a $1.817 billion jackpot on Christmas Eve. This prize is the second-largest Powerball jackpot ever in the United States. The winning ticket was sold after 46 consecutive drawings without a top prize winner.
Key Facts
An Arkansas player won a $1.817 billion Powerball jackpot on Christmas Eve.
The winning numbers were 04, 25, 31, 52, 59, and the Powerball number was 19.
The jackpot was the second-largest in U.S. history and the largest Powerball prize of 2025.
The lump sum cash option for the prize was $834.9 million.
The win ended a streak of 46 drawings without a top prize winner.
The last time the Powerball jackpot was won on Christmas Eve was in 2011.
Powerball tickets are sold in 45 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.
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Several clothing retailers announced plans to open new stores across the United States in 2026. Brands like Nordstrom Rack, J.H. & Sons, and Uniqlo are expanding, adding more locations as part of their growth strategies. These plans come amid broader economic challenges but reflect optimism about sales and consumer interest.
Key Facts
Nordstrom Rack plans to open 21 new stores in different cities during 2026.
J.H. & Sons will open a new location in Kansas City, Missouri.
Uniqlo plans to add 11 new stores across seven U.S. cities in spring and summer 2026.
Uniqlo currently operates 78 stores in the United States.
Retail experts note a trend toward larger retailers buying smaller brands and a rise in private-label clothing.
Economic pressures like inflation have led consumers to seek more affordable shopping options.
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The Powerball lottery held a drawing on Christmas Eve for an estimated $1.817 billion jackpot, which is the second-largest in U.S. history. The drawing took place in Tallahassee, Florida, and it was not immediately clear if anyone won. The cash value of the jackpot is estimated to be $781.3 million.
Key Facts
The Powerball jackpot reached an estimated $1.817 billion for the Christmas Eve drawing.
This jackpot is the second-largest in the history of U.S. lotteries.
The winning numbers for the drawing were 4, 25, 31, 52, 59, and a red Powerball of 19.
It wasn't immediately known if there was a winner; the announcement was expected the following day.
The Powerball drawing took place on December 24 at 10:59 PM ET in Tallahassee, Florida.
Powerball drawings occur three times a week: Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
Tickets can be bought in 45 states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with cutoff times varying by state.
The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.
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President Donald Trump's tariffs on Indian goods have caused prices to rise, affecting exports like Indian fox nuts. These tariffs aim at Indian imports of Russian oil, impacting several sectors and reducing fox nut sales to the U.S. However, fox nuts continue to find new markets and demand in other countries and within India.
Key Facts
President Trump imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods.
Fox nuts, or makhana, are popular for their health benefits.
The price of some Indian products, like fox nuts, has doubled in the U.S.
Tariffs are partly a response to India importing Russian oil.
Exporters of fox nuts report a 40% drop in sales to the U.S.
India produces 90% of the world’s fox nuts, mainly in Bihar.
Fox nut farming supports about 150,000 farmers in India.
Despite challenges, fox nuts are gaining popularity in other markets.
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The Labor Department reported a decrease in unemployment claims last week ahead of the holiday season. The number of claims fell by 10,000, but continuing jobless claims are slightly up. President Trump and economists share different views on the state of job growth and the economy.
Key Facts
Last week's unemployment claims were 214,000, down from 224,000 the previous week.
Wall Street expected 231,500 unemployment claims, but actual numbers were lower.
Continuing jobless claims rose to 1.92 million from 1.88 million.
The unemployment rate in November climbed to 4.6%.
The U.S. added 64,000 jobs in November but lost 105,000 jobs in October.
President Donald Trump commented on job growth via social media, stating new jobs are in the private sector.
Economists suggest the current hiring slowdown may pressure the Federal Reserve to adjust interest rates.
Seasonal trends and holiday hiring may temporarily affect unemployment claim numbers.
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The U.S. economy is growing quickly, but job creation is slow. This trend, where the economy expands without significant hiring, is expected to continue. Factors such as increased automation and spending from wealthier households contribute to this situation.
Key Facts
The U.S. economy grew at a 4.3% annual rate in the third quarter of 2025.
Job creation averaged just 51,000 per month, despite the economic growth.
Household consumption rose 3.5%, largely driven by higher-income households.
Investment in automation and artificial intelligence is increasing.
Nominal GDP grew by 8.2%, while the unemployment rate increased to 4.6% in November 2025.
President Trump's fiscal policies, including corporate tax cuts, encourage investment in technology over labor.
Large companies benefit from these tax incentives, while smaller businesses struggle to hire due to higher interest rates.
The Middle Market Business Index indicates that midsize company hiring intentions are flat despite improved business confidence.
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The California High-Speed Rail Authority is seeking private partners to help build the state's high-speed rail system. They plan to have these partnerships in place by summer 2026 to speed up construction and secure more funding.
Key Facts
The Rail Authority is looking for private investment partners to help with the high-speed rail project by summer 2026.
A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) has been issued to find a private partner for a Co-Development Agreement.
Private partners may invest in and manage assets like station facilities and track access.
171 miles of the rail system, from Merced to Bakersfield, are in the design or construction phase.
463 miles of the planned 494-mile route from San Francisco to Los Angeles have full environmental clearance.
The project has created nearly 16,400 jobs, mainly for Central Valley residents.
Over 30 major structures are currently being built in counties like Madera and Fresno.
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Three U.S. senators have started an investigation into the insurance ratings firm Demotech. They are concerned that the company's ratings might not be reliable and could pose risks to mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, as well as taxpayers. The senators worry that these issues might lead to financial problems, especially in Florida, where Demotech's ratings have been particularly problematic.
Key Facts
Three U.S. senators launched an investigation into Demotech, an insurance ratings company.
Demotech's ratings are considered "lightly regulated" and may expose Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to risks.
The investigation is focused on the high number of failed insurers in Florida and Louisiana rated by Demotech.
Demotech started rating smaller insurance companies in 1985.
Over 60% of Florida insurers had Demotech ratings, with 20% becoming insolvent from 2009 to 2022 while holding an "A" rating.
Senators are concerned that Demotech's ratings allow risky mortgages to be offloaded onto Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac back most of the 51 million residential mortgages in the U.S.
The senators argue that these practices could lead to market destabilization similar to the 2008 crisis.
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Shake Shack has introduced a new "Good Fit Menu" with high-protein meals, gluten-free sandwiches, and vegetarian choices. These menu items are designed to cater to various dietary needs and are available nationwide in stores and online.
Key Facts
Shake Shack's new menu is called the "Good Fit Menu."
The menu includes meals high in protein, gluten-free options, and vegetarian choices.
It is available in Shake Shack locations across the country and online.
Meal examples include a Single ShackBurger Lettuce Wrap and a Double Veggie Shack Lettuce Wrap.
Prices vary by location, with New York City menu items ranging from $8.29 to $13.99.
The company says this menu meets various dietary preferences and goals.
The menu was launched on December 18.
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On Christmas Eve, a Powerball jackpot draw will offer a prize of $1.7 billion after months without a winner. This jackpot is one of the largest in the U.S. history and comes after 46 drawings without a winner since September 6. Powerball is played in 45 U.S. states and several territories, but not everyone can buy tickets everywhere due to state laws.
Key Facts
The Powerball jackpot is now $1.7 billion, one of the largest in U.S. history.
There have been 46 consecutive draws without a jackpot winner since September 6.
Powerball tickets cost $2 each, and the odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292.2 million.
Powerball is available in 45 states, plus Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Some states have different age requirements for buying lottery tickets; most require players to be 18 or older.
If a player wins, they can take the full amount over 29 years or a lump sum cash value of $781.3 million.
Smaller prizes are also available, with previous winners from various states winning amounts like $1 million and $100,000.
The game odds were made harder in 2015 to encourage larger jackpots.
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There is currently less demand for people to play Santa Claus at events compared to recent years. This change reflects broader labor market trends where people are hiring fewer temporary workers for seasonal jobs. Economic factors and a shift to online shopping have contributed to this decrease in demand for Santas.
Key Facts
There is less demand for Santas now compared to the past few years.
A 30% decrease in inquiries for hiring Santas was reported compared to 2024.
Fewer people are hosting large Christmas events, affecting the need for Santas.
Economic changes and increased online shopping have contributed to reduced demand.
There are fewer malls now, so fewer Santas are needed for in-person shopping events.
More people are now interested in becoming Santas, possibly balancing the demand.
The aging workforce might result in more retirees taking up seasonal Santa jobs.
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Newsweek shared a selection of new consumer products available for purchase, including energy shots, flavored salts, and skin tints. This segment, part of a series, introduces innovative and noteworthy items for consumers to try across various categories. The article aims to keep readers informed about new product trends and offers.
Key Facts
Newsweek's feature highlights new products like C4 Performance Energy Shots and Diamond Crystal Flavored Kosher Salts.
C4 Performance Energy Shots are small energy drinks available in flavors like Frozen Bombsicle and Hawaiian Punch.
Kit Kat introduced a Peppermint Stick Candy Bar for the holiday season.
Carbone Italian Simmer Sauces aim to deliver restaurant-quality food at home.
e.l.f. Halo Glow Skin Tint SPF 50 offers light coverage with sun protection.
The Wonder Oven Pro is an 8-in-1 air fryer and toaster oven, designed to be non-toxic.
Marketers can submit their new products to be featured in Newsweek's product highlights.
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BP has sold a 65% stake in its motor oil division, Castrol, for $6 billion to New York-based investment firm Stonepeak. With this sale, BP plans to reduce its debts and concentrate on its main oil and gas business. BP will keep the remaining 35% of Castrol as it continues to restructure its operations.
Key Facts
BP sold a 65% stake in Castrol to Stonepeak, a U.S. investment firm.
The deal is valued at $10.1 billion, with BP receiving $6 billion in cash.
BP will use the money to pay debts and focus on its main oil and gas operations.
BP keeps a 35% stake in Castrol, which it has controlled since 2000.
This sale is part of BP’s plan to sell off $20 billion worth of assets.
BP’s strategy shift includes reducing investment in green energy.
The Castrol sale follows recent leadership changes at BP, including a new CEO.
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On Christmas Eve 2025, many grocery stores shorten their hours or close earlier than usual. Most major grocery chains will not open on Christmas Day, so shoppers should plan accordingly for last-minute holiday purchases.
Key Facts
Most grocery stores shorten hours on Christmas Eve and close on Christmas Day.
Walmart and Kroger close early on Christmas Eve; both are closed on Christmas Day.
Costco is open from 9am to 5pm for executive members and 10am to 5pm for all members on Christmas Eve.
Aldi closes most of its stores at 4pm on Christmas Eve.
Publix stores close early at 7pm on Christmas Eve.
CVS and Walgreens have varying hours, with many pharmacies closed on Christmas Day.
A Powerball drawing with an estimated jackpot of $1.7 billion is scheduled for Christmas Eve.
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The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) set new housing goals for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac from 2026 to 2028. The changes include lowering the targets for lending to low-income borrowers for single-family homes. The aim is to align with current market conditions, but some people are concerned this could affect credit access for lower-income Americans.
Key Facts
The FHFA announced new housing targets for 2026-2028 for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The new rule lowers benchmarks for single-family home loans for low-income borrowers.
For borrowers earning up to 80% of the area's median income, the target went from 25% to 21%.
For those with incomes up to 50% of the median, the goal dropped from 6% to 3.5%.
The rules for multifamily home loans did not change.
The FHFA simplified its regulations by merging two subgoals into one for low-income areas.
Some experts are worried these changes may limit credit access for low- and moderate-income families.
Industry leaders have mixed reactions; some see it as a needed change given the current economic conditions.
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