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Small business sentiment fades in NFIB survey, but one store owner 'cautiously optimistic'
NFIB says small business optimism slipped below its long-term average in September as owners cited uncertainty, labor shortages and inflation.
Partners Want AI to Help Them Find New Business, But Most Are Running It on Data They Can’t Use, Introhive Survey Finds
Partners at law and accounting firms say the one thing they most want from business-development technology is help finding new business in relationships their firms already have. But 78% say the relat...
Artist Lita Albuquerque opens a show at Palm Springs Art Museum
At 80, artist Lita Albuquerque is the subject of a significant museum survey in Palm Springs amid a convergence of projects affirming her influence.
Halloween, Día de los Muertos a treat for Santa Fe business owners as sales climb
According to the National Retail Federation’s annual consumer survey, consumer spending on Halloween this year is projected to reach a record $13.5 billion, and local retailers are noticing.
City of College Station seeks resident input on future growth
A new survey by the City of College Station is urging residents to give input on businesses they want to see in town.
YouTube Overtakes TV as Top Source of Political News, Study Finds
The Center for the Creator Economy’s inaugural industry Flash Report Survey finds six in 10 Americans say they trust independent creators as much as professional journalists.
Marsh survey examines how health systems are managing capital, investment strategies
Health systems’ finances improved in 2026, but many organizations remain under enough pressure to keep tapping reserves, taking on debt, and turning to investment portfolios for financial flexibili | Forty-three percent of respondents report expecting to draw on reserves in 2026, up from 37% the year prior.
2027 Oscars power rankings: Top 10 best picture contenders right now
With the fall festivals in the books, awards columnist Glenn Whipp surveys the landscape and offers his first bold prediction of the 10 best picture nominees.
Extreme heat threatens maternal health and newborn wellbeing worldwide
Extreme heat has led to a marked increase in the risks faced by pregnant women and their babies, according to a survey of 1,000 healthcare professionals in countries including Brazil, India and Zimbabwe.
Californians are ‘really losing sleep’ over this financial burden
Medical bills have become Californians’ top financial worry, a new survey finds, with many saying health care costs are forcing them to delay care and make painful tradeoffs.
Ten kamaʻāina explorers join deep-sea expedition around the Hawaiian Islands
Ten local scientists, students, and educators are currently sailing aboard Ocean Exploration Trust’s Exploration Vessel (E/V) Nautilus for a 20-day expedition to explore previously unsurveyed deep-sea habitats around the Hawaiian Islands and within Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary.
Patriots fans believe playoffs remain possible
The results of our latest Patriots fan survey are in.
New statewide data shows youth mental health is improving and students feel safer in Pa. schools
HARRISBURG — A statewide survey of more than 267,000 Pennsylvania students shows that investments under the Shapiro-Davis administration in youth...
Trust in science falls as Covid-era confidence fades, finds global survey
Across countries surveyed before, during and after the pandemic, 72% of people expressed at least some trust in science in 2025, down from 80% in 2020 and 77% in 2018
Scientists Say the Secret to a Happier, Healthier Society May Begin in Childhood
How children are raised may matter for social well-being worldwide, with surveys across three culturally different countries linking supportive childhoods to adults’ trust and sense of belonging. At home, a child seeking comfort depends on a caregiver’s response, while time for free play offers room to explore. A University of Nottingham-led study linked these experiences,
Trust in science falls as Covid-era confidence fades, global survey finds
Global trust in science falls after Covid, with the steepest drop among people facing financial hardship, a Wellcome survey finds. Read more at straitstimes.com.
Trust in science falls as COVID-era confidence fades, global survey finds
The retreat has potentially far-reaching consequences for public health as vaccination rates decline and preventable diseases resurge.
Global trust in science falls below pre-pandemic levels, survey finds
Global trust in science falls below pre-pandemic levels, survey finds
Americans trust science more than peers around the world, survey shows
Just 40 percent of Americans reported a lot of confidence in U.S. hospitals and health clinics, the same proportion as in Portugal and Uruguay.
Wellcome Global Monitor 2026: Trust in science has declined worldwide, but the picture varies sharply by region
Based on surveys of more than 140,000 people in 140 countries, the Wellcome Global Monitor shows that trust in science has fallen since the Covid-19 pandemic and is lowest among people who feel the systems around them are not working for them.
Wellcome Global Monitor 2026: Trust in science under pressure
The Wellcome Global Monitor is the world's largest study of how people think and feel about science and health. The 2026 edition draws on surveys of more than 140,000 people in 140 countries, making it a uniquely rich and globally comparable data set on public trust in science.
Americans 75 and older are wealthiest age group, Fed survey finds
Bolstered by steady gains in the stock market, families headed by someone aged 75 or older are now America’s wealthiest, while the youngest families saw their wealth decline in the
Survey results: Fans split on the Giants’ playoff potential
Giants fans don’t think their team can win the division, but give them better odds at being a Wildcard.
Northern Virginia defense tech firm plans to increase staff by 25% or more
A recent survey from the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce and Pinkston found a third of business executives expect to do some hiring in the next six months. Tim Tkacz of Reston-based Blue Sky Innovators is one of them.
2 offensive transfers have earned the trust of Buckeye Nation
As we head into Ohio State’s sixth game of the season, we’ve got the results to this week’s fan survey, and Buckeye Nation is putting its trust in two transfers on the offense.
City of Laurel Encourages Local Businesses to Participate in 2026 Small Business Credit Survey
(LAUREL, MD) The City of Laurel’s Department of Economic & Community Development is encouraging local business owners and key financial decision makers to participate in the Federal Reserve&
Teen mental health moving in better direction, according to CDC survey
The latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Youth Risk Behavior Survey shows the numbers moving in a better direction.
Cash Flow Is King For SMBs, Relay’s 2026 Small-Business Survey Shows
Small businesses deal with highly variable cash flow, but their finance software often doesn’t help them spot cash-flow problems and opportunities in advance.
Voters Aren't Comfortable With the Most Public-Facing Uses of AI In Politics, Poll Finds
A new national survey commissioned by the AAPC Foundation offers some of the clearest feedback yet on campaigns’ growing AI usage.
How students can find therapy and other mental health resources
About 70% of college students experienced a mental health concern in the past year, according to a 2026 national survey from United Healthcare. The University of Georgia Counseling and Psychiatric
Scientists create new statewide surface geologic map of Nebraska
A new academic paper by Paul Hanson and Matthew Joeckel of the Conservation and Survey Division in the University of Nebraska–Lincoln's School of Natural Resources contains a brief phrase—"new linework"—that ...
Trump bucks and the politics of mailing checks
The checks started going out last week, nearly one million of them, and mostly to battleground states. With a return address for the U.S. Treasury and a letter enclosed signed by President Donald Trump, these one-time checks for $500 were ostensibly government rebates for Obamacare enrollees who overpaid. In the accompanying letter, however, Trump attacks his predecessor and talks about his record in office on an important issue he’s not polling well on, which makes it seem more like the most expensive political mailer in U.S. history. The average piece of direct mail costs between 30 cents and $3, according to Mail Processing Associates, a print, mail, and fulfillment company. At $500 a pop plus roughly 50 cents each to issue the paper check, the cost of Trump’s healthcare mailer sent to more than 950,000 enrollees comes in at more than $475 million. Trump’s midterm healthcare message “For years, the Biden Administration overcharged you to fund the operation of HealthCare dot gov,” Trump wrote in the letter. “That money belongs to hard-working Americans, not the Government, and now, I am returning it to you!” In the letter, Trump makes false and misleading claims about his administration’s record on healthcare costs, an issue Democrats have a 20 point advantage on over Republicans, according to a recent poll from KFF, a nonpartisan health policy think tank. Trump touts his administration’s TrumpRX program, which he claims is “delivering massive discounts.” However, new research from KFF found that of a selection of drugs available on the TrumpRX platform, just five were the lowest price, while 13 were the highest price. Trump also falsely claims in the letter that he’s fighting to lower healthcare costs. In reality, average monthly premium payment costs for enrollees rose 58% under Trump while marketplace sign-ups declined 5%, per KFF. Under Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act, it’s estimated 10 million more Americans will be uninsured by 2034. You get a check and you get a check and you get a check Trump’s long promised cash outs to his fans, from his days as a casino operator and gameshow host to his presidency. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the first Trump administration made the unprecedented move to put Trump’s name on checks that went out under the CARES Act (notably the $500 refund checks this time around don’t feature Trump’s name). Ever since, Trump’s been chasing that high. In his second term, Trump’s promised more stimulus that never arrived, like refund checks from DOGE cuts and tariffs, while he said at his party’s convention last month that he’d give out $5,000 checks to everyone if Republicans win in November. In reality, DOGE overstated its cost cutting and Trump’s government actually now spends more than former President Joe Biden’s, while Trump’s tariffs actually grew the trade deficit. His proposal for $5,000 checks would add about $1.2 trillion to the national debt. The problem is there’s no money to give. These $500 checks — plus $90 Medicare rebate checks also going out as well as $250 deposited this week in some Trump Accounts for kids courtesy Dell Technologies CEO Michael Dell and his wife Susan — represent the closest Trump’s going to get to making good on his promise to deliver cash fast. And the checks seem especially targeted. Though the $500 checks went out to enrollees in one of 30 states that use the federal HealthCare dot gov marketplace, a Reuters review found 71% of the payments, or $339 million, went to enrollees in 13 states that have the most competitive elections for governor and U.S. Senate. Most Americans don’t buy it Could Trump bucks sway the election? An Economist-YouGov poll found 57% of U.S. adults doubt Trump will deliver on his promise for $5,000 checks, compared to 21% who do. “I’m waiting on my DOGE check and I’m still waiting on my tariff check,” one 2024 Trump voter who’s since turned on him told a recent focus group. “It felt like kind of trying to buy people’s votes, which honestly felt like in elementary when the class president was like, hey we’re going to take you to the water park if you vote for me. It’s like, I don’t think it works like that.” But for voters in swing states who got a check, it could still matter. One survey published in 2022 found receiving a physically personalized check in the mail during the pandemic was associated with a much greater self-reported likelihood of voting for Trump in 2020, and those gains mainly came from out partisans. The issue for Trump comes if these checks are mostly going to Obamacare enrollees whose premiums have gone up by more than just $500 since he took office and who view the money as something like a bribe before the election rather than an actual long-term solution to lowering household costs. Spending $500.50 per mailer would be absurd as a normal campaign expenditure, but since Trump’s checks and letter are a government rebate, his campaign and super PAC didn’t have to spend a dime and he got out his message regardless. If enough voters in key states are swayed by the one-time payment, it could prove to be the best $0 the Trump campaign spent. Subscribe [ ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/why-independent-candidates-are-making) [ Why independent candidates are making independence central to their brand ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/why-independent-candidates-are-making) Hunter Schwarz · Oct 6 [ Read full story ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/why-independent-candidates-are-making) [ ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/these-designers-and-grocery-nerds) [ These designers and grocery nerds will brand Mamdani’s NYC grocery stores ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/these-designers-and-grocery-nerds) Hunter Schwarz · Oct 2 [ Read full story ](https://www.yellopolitics.com/p/these-designers-and-grocery-nerds) Trump wants to turn his first-ever golf course into a government course for presidents
Iowa Business Council predicts economically positive third quarter
A new survey from the Iowa Business Council reports a positive economic prediction for the next six months. The IBC’s Economic Outlook Survey (EOS) for the third quarter was 0.1 points higher than the report for the second quarter, now reaching 64.91 points. If the points are higher than 50, the survey is reported positive. […]
New St. Pete Polls survey has Ashley Moody at 47%, Angie Nixon at 45%, and the Senate race still inside the margin of error
U.S. Sen. Ashley Moody leads Democrat Angie Nixon 47% to 45% in a new St. Pete Polls survey for Florida Politics, a narrow edge for the Republican inside
‘Medicare for All’ message attracts voters buckling under medical bills
Support for Medicare for All is at its highest in at least a decade, according to a new KFF poll. The survey found two-thirds of Americans now favor expanding the government health program that largely covers seniors (about half of whom are enrolled in private plans through Medicare Advantage).
Largest 2D map of the universe helps scientists discover new gravitational lenses
Using data from the DESI Legacy Imaging Surveys, with help from artificial intelligence, an international team of scientists has discovered 70 new gravitational lenses—rare cosmic alignments that act ...
Taylorville Memorial Hospital’s Community Health Survey Open
Taylorville Memorial Hospital is collecting responses for its triennial Community Health Survey and encourages community members to participate. Those living in Christian County and Nokomis are welcome to complete the questionnaire. It’s available through the end of October and in both paper and online formats. […]
AI Adoption and Employment Expectations: Evidence from a Survey of Small Business Owners
A look at the 12-month forward employment and revenue expectations of AI users using data from the 2025 edition of the Fed Small Business Credit Survey.
How political polling went astray and became a partisan tool
Modern polling faces a crisis of credibility as both the method as well as the partisan bent of surveys of would-be voters taint results.
Duke Health-backed survey identifies steep health barriers for Durham residents earning under $75,000
The Durham Community Health Assessment Survey's latest findings will guide Duke's community health planning going forward, Duke Health officials said.
Ryan Smith launches survey in search for 'strong local vibe' at SLC entertainment district
With two-thirds of the Delta Center's renovation now complete, the owner of the Utah Jazz and Mammoth is now shifting his attention to a planned district east of it.
Iowa Business Council survey shows postive outlook on state's economy
The Iowa Business Council (IBC) has released its third quarter Economic Outlook Survey that gauges the outlook for the next six months. IBC President Joe Murphy says it’s based on a 100 point scale. “Our overall survey score was 64.91 index points, so just under 65 points, relatively flat, virtually no movement on the overall […]
Hispanic business owners weigh in on Paxton vs Talarico Texas race
A new survey of Texas Hispanic business owners offers a window into the Senate race and the issues driving them as early voting nears.
KFF Midterms Data Presentation: What Do Voters Think About Health Care Now?
Join KFF for a virtual event at Noon ET on Wednesday, October 14, featuring KFF public opinion and survey experts who will provide analysis and insights on the latest findings from recent public opinion surveys about health care issues in advance of the midterms, including current public sentiment about Medicare-for-All and how it compares historically. After the presentation, experts will take questions from attendees.
Report: Iowa economy seeing ‘positive change’ this year
The Iowa Business Council (IBC) has released its third quarter Economic Outlook Survey (EOS) for 2026. That survey is showing encouraging signs for Iowa businesses, according to IBC officials. The Iowa Business Council (IBC) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization whose 22 members are the chief decision makers of the state’s largest employers. Since its establishment […]
What to do with Aaron Glenn?
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Jets fans and fans across the country. This season has taken a difficult turn for the New York Jets and their fans. A year that began with a promising win over the Tennessee […]
Report: Iowa economy seeing ‘positive change’ this year
The Iowa Business Council (IBC) has released its third quarter Economic Outlook Survey (EOS) for 2026. That survey is showing encouraging signs for Iowa businesses, according to IBC officials. The Iowa Business Council (IBC) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization whose 22 members are the chief decision makers of the state’s largest employers. Since its establishment […]
Lower Burrell business outreach project gives city insight into wishes, challenges of business district
A summer intern’s project surveying Lower Burrell business owners is already helping the city strategize how to bridge gaps between its local government and business district. It’s also the catalyst for a new effort to form a business owner network, said City Manager Greg Primm. Kyle Radecki, an urban planning
Blog: Largest 2D Map of the Universe Helps Scientists Discover New Cosmic Magnifying Glasses The DESI Legacy Imaging Surveys are helping scientists compile a growing sample of confirmed gravitational lenses
Largest 2D Map of the Universe Helps Scientists Discover New Cosmic Magnifying Glasses
Florida poll: Republicans lead in the races for governor and Senate
The new survey shows the state’s Hispanic voters shifting away from President Donald Trump after Republicans made gains in 2024.
Missoula Public Health seeks public input in community health survey
Missoula County residents may get a knock on their door later this month, as Missoula Public Health and local partners are conducting a community health survey
One Foot Down Reacts: Notre Dame’s Top Need Against Stanford
Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NCAA. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Notre Dame fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys: This week for One Foot Down Reacts, we’re asking: What do you, as a Notre […]
How combining science and community knowledge could shape coral reef conservation in Indonesia
Coral reefs in Indonesia’s Spermonde Archipelago are under pressure from both natural and anthropogenic activities. Researchers from Hasanuddin University assessed reef conditions across three islands using underwater photography and drone surveys, while also gathering local perspectives on reef conditions and restoration. They found greater live coral cover in clearer waters but limited community readiness to participate in conservation efforts, suggesting that training and institutional support could strengthen local communities’ role in protecting these natural treasures.
Pingree holds double-digit lead as voters back public option for health insurance
Democratic gubernatorial candidate Hannah Pingree holds a double-digit lead over Republican Bobby Charles, while one of her signature health care proposals is even more popular with likely Maine voters, according to a new poll released Tuesday. The survey, conducted by the Maine People’s Resource Center and released by the Maine People’s Alliance (of which Beacon
Housing costs are the top political issue for young U.S. voters heading into the midterms
A new survey finds 1 in 5 Americans spend half their pre-tax income on housing, and renters are bearing the worst of it
ODNR Invites Ohioans to Celebrate Earth Science Week 2026
Article presented by Litter Quality Propane and Hometown Motors, Inc … COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Geological Survey is celebrating Earth Science Week from Sunday, October 11, through Saturday, October 17. Four special events will be offered throughout Ohio and will coincide with the annual national celebration. “We […]
Another sign of rapidly expanding political map: Pollsters can’t keep up
Increased demand for polling has strained call centers that conduct surveys, squeezed capacity and complicated the task of getting accurate reads on public opinion, according to pollsters.
Northern Virginia business leaders grow more pessimistic about the national economy, survey finds
One in five respondents is based in Alexandria. A majority said data centers are good for the region's economy.
Medicare-for-all support is rising, KFF poll finds
The survey also found that the public’s views of a national health plan are highly malleable.
American Journal Of Public Health Study Examines Political Differences In Perceptions Of Vaccine Safety And Effectiveness
Vaccine perceptions can influence acceptance and uptake. Dr. Dror Walter, with the Department of Communication at Georgia State University in Atlanta, and colleagues examined these perceptions using data from a national probability sample of 1,763 US adults surveyed in November 2024.
How do Rockford-area businesses feel about the economy? Here’s what surveys say
By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our free e-newsletter ROCKFORD — Businesses in the greater Rockford region say their companies are in good health, despite waning confidence in the local economy. That's according to the latest results of the Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce's quarterly business sentiment survey, which drew responses from 125 companies
Local political polarization is rising sharply ahead of the midterms, survey finds
Cost-of-living issues are driving up tensions in local communities, while immigration is the most polarizing issue nationally, local government officials said in a new survey.
Majority of Northern Virginia business leaders give data centers thumbs-up
A majority of surveyed business leaders now believe data centers will have a positive impact on the regional economy in Northern Virginia.
Political orientation and institutional trust emerge as key factors in local wind energy support
Why does the expansion of wind energy sometimes meet with local resistance, even though renewable energy generally enjoys broad support? RIFS researcher Jörg Radtke used a representative survey of 6,284 ...
New Zealand third quarter business confidence jumps, says think tank
WELLINGTON, Oct 6 (Reuters) - New Zealand's business confidence rose in the third quarter even as fuel prices increase and geopolitics remain a headwind for the country, a private think tank said on Tuesday. A net 43% of firms surveyed expec...
New Zealand third quarter business confidence jumps, says think tank
WELLINGTON, Oct 6 (Reuters) - New Zealand's business confidence rose in the third quarter even as fuel prices increased and geopolitics remained a headwind for the country, a private think tank said on Tuesday. A net 43% of firms surveyed expected ge...
National Health Survey Comes to Southeastern North Carolina
The CDC will collect data from residents in Scotland, Richmond, and Hoke counties as part of an annual health and nutrition survey.
Downtown Boston business owners seek more police presence after survey finds people feel unsafe
The survey by the Downtown Boston Neighborhood Alliance finds that 56% of locals feel less safe in downtown than they did at the start of the year, marking a considerable increase from last year.
Eyes on Growth: TD Survey Finds Small Businesses Confident About Growth Despite Economic Headwinds and Delayed Investments
TD Bank U.S. survey finds 85% of small business owners expect stronger revenue through year-end, despite economic uncertainty and preparedness gaps.
Asia-Pacific survey to employers and business membership organizations on labour, trade and responsible business conduct
This ILO Brief presents the results of a survey of employer and business membership organizations (EBMOs) in Asia and the Pacific highlights growing business demand for support in navigating labour, trade and responsible business requirements. The findings point to the need for stronger technical expertise, practical tools and sustained support to help businesses maintain competitiveness and meet evolving market expectations.
Study: IL lawyers report mental health challenges, substance abuse, suicide ideation
(CAPITOL CITY NOW) - For many lawyers, the effects of the job can include declining mental health, substance abuse, problem gambling, suicide ideation, and even declining cognitive skills. These are the results of a survey of Illinois attorneys, "The Weight of Practice," commissioned by the Illinois Lawyers' Assistance Program. Factors include the stress of being
Governor’s advisory council discusses Youth Risk Behavior Survey ahead of final policy recommendations
Gov. Stein's advisory council is finalizing recommendations on youth well-being before the legislature decides how to use Meta settlement funds.
Euro zone business growth hits over 3-1/2-year high despite inflation worries, PMI shows
BENGALURU, Oct 5 (Reuters) - Euro zone business activity expanded at its fastest pace in nearly 3-1/2 years in September as demand remained strong despite inflation worries stemming from the Middle East war, according to a private survey which also showed resurgent price pressures.
German services sector grows in September on strong demand, PMI shows
Germany's service sector saw solid growth in business activity in September, supported by a sustained recovery in demand, a business survey showed on Monday.
French services sector returned to growth for first time since December, PMI shows
France's dominant services sector grew in September for the first time since the end of last year, helped by a rebound in output after businesses had been impacted in August by an intense summer heatwave, a business survey showed on Monday.
Spain services growth accelerates despite cost surge, PMI shows
Oct 5 (Reuters) - The expansion in Spain's service sector picked up pace in September as increased demand lifted activity despite a surge in operating expenses, a business survey showed
Tennessee business leaders remain optimistic about state’s economy
More than half of Tennessee business leaders absorbed higher fuel costs rather than passing them on to customers, according to a new survey by the Boyd Center for Business and
CDC Plans To Drop Disability Questions From Federal Health Survey
A proposed revamp of a key federal survey could lead to a drastic undercount of Americans with developmental disabilities, advocates warn.
600 N.J. homes are getting a CDC letter. Here’s what it means.
The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey is collecting data in Bergen County.
How Americans’ Financial Health Is Faring In The “K-Shaped” Economy
Hey all, Jason here. Money20/20 is still two weeks away, but I’ve already started packing (not procrastinating for once!). My calendar is already filling up with various sessions I want to catch, meetings, and of course happy hours, dinners, and other side events. If you’ll be in Vegas and want to catch up, let me know by replying to this email, and we can try to find a time amidst the chaos of the Venetian. A big if not totally unexpected piece of news dropped on Friday: the Independent Community Bankers of America, a trade group that represents smaller U.S. banks, filed a lawsuit against the OCC and Comptroller Jonathan Gould, arguing that the regulator’s move to grant trust bank charters to firms seeking to use them to conduct substantial non-fiduciary activities exceeds the authorities granted to the OCC by Congress. I haven’t had time to fully digest the legal filing or speak to folks in my network about it, but you can expect to see coverage and analysis on it in next week’s newsletter. Subscribe or Support by Upgrading The NerdCon agenda just dropped. It’s stacked. Partner content: Nubank built an AI-first bank. Chime built its own banking core. Figure and Valon are rebuilding the mortgage stack. At NerdCon, you’ll hear from the people behind those bets: what they chose, what they learned, and what they’re still figuring out. The agenda is live, with leaders from Nubank, Chime, OpenAI, Remitly, Mercury, Figure, Valon and more. Follow the mainstage conversations, bring the problem your team is wrestling with to a hands-on workshop, or pull up a chair at a roundtable. Pick your quests. Meet us in San Diego, November 18–20. Fintech Business Weekly readers save 20% with code FBW20. Explore the Agenda Things To Know & Other Good Reads Federal Reserve Board finalizes changes to enhance the transparency and public accountability of its stress test and reduce volatility in its stress test-related capital requirements (Federal Reserve Board of Governors) FDIC Announces Conclusion of Independent Monitorship (FDIC) Modernizing Financial Regulation: Initial Observations from eSLR (Fed Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman) The Data Version of Godzilla versus Kong: FRED Takes on AI (Fed Governor Christopher Waller) Financing the AI buildout (Brookings) Q3’26: Rules for Banks but Not for Crypto (Fintech Takes Banking) The Inevitability of Local Stablecoins (Lombard Notes) Delusions of AI Governance: The Human-in-the-Loop Comfort Blanket (Fintech Snark Tank) Stripe agrees to acquire Parafin to expand revenue opportunities for platforms and help small businesses grow (Stripe) Listen: Fighting Fraud in the Age of AI, with SEON’s Tamas Kadar (Fintech Business Weekly) How Americans’ Financial Health Is Faring In The “K-Shaped” Economy If there is one overarching theme across the economy and politics in the U.S. at the moment, it’s “affordability.” The term is vague enough to encompass a panoply of factors shaping Americans’ day-to-day lives: rising costs for the hallmarks of being “middle class,” including healthcare, housing, childcare, and education, inflation and rising interest rates, and a job market with the specter of AI hovering over it. At the same time, policy shifts under the Trump administration have resulted in reduced subsidies to those who get health insurance under the Affordable Care Act and new restrictions on qualifying for Medicaid and SNAP, the impacts of which have yet to be fully felt. These factors are contributing to declining consumer confidence and general dissatisfaction with the economy, despite continuing GDP growth and stock market records. This divergence is encapsulated in the idea of the “K-shaped” economy, in which a small proportion of Americans have seen their wealth balloon, while the majority of American households struggle to preserve the lifestyle they have. Perhaps the greatest determinant of which branch of the “K” a household is on is whether their wealth and income are primarily derived from employment vs. from assets. Nearly two decades of low interest rates and, more recently, elevated rates of inflation have benefited asset owners, while those whose income is primarily or solely derived from labor have largely seen real purchasing power stagnate or decline. This is reflected in recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data showing that labor share of U.S. GDP — the fraction of economic output that accrues to workers as compensation in exchange for their labor — dropped to just 52.8% in Q2 2026, the lowest since the BLS began keeping records. In 1947, approximately 2/3rds of economic output accrued to workers; even as recently as 2001, labor’s share of GDP was 64.1%. Against this backdrop, we’ve seen the rise of more credit and credit-like products: cash advance apps, “no-fee” overdraft, earned wage access, and buy now pay later, which are often used as small-dollar short-term borrowing mechanisms to meet immediate consumption needs or pay other bills (eg utilities, cell phone, other debt payments). With the markers of a middle class existence and, increasingly, basic financial stability seemingly out of reach for many, it should be no surprise there’s been an increase in “financial nihilism,” something industry peers like Alex Johnson and Frank Rotman have discussed and analyzed the roots of. The explosion of gambling and gambling-adjacent products and services — often marketed under the guise of being an “investment” — is inextricably intertwined with the rise of financial nihilism. Crypto, sports betting, and, more recently, prediction markets offer an escape or even hope of sorts, like a contemporary, digital version of a scratch-off lottery ticket, while leaving the overwhelming number of people who use such products worse off. Share of Households That Are Financially “Vulnerable” Ticks Up The Financial Health Network’s 2026 Financial Health Pulse® report adds context on how American households are faring. (I linked to this report in last week’s newsletter, but wanted to take time to further unpack the data in the report this week.) The Financial Health Network publishes the report annually, providing insight into how Americans’ financial circumstances are changing over time. The 2026 report is derived from a survey fielded in April and May 2026. The report leverages survey responses to assess indicators of financial health across spending, saving, borrowing, and planning/protecting and to determine a zero to 100 “FinHealth” score. Those with scores between 0 and 39 are considered “Financially Vulnerable,” consumers with scores ranging between 40 and 79 are defined as “Financially Coping,” and those with scores of 80 to 100 are “Financially Healthy.” The report found that moderate improvements in 2025 were reversed, with the share of respondents considered financially “vulnerable” rebounding to 17%. The longitudinal data reflect the impact of pandemic-era programs, like expanded unemployment, cash stimulus payments, and pauses of federal student loan payments. The positive impacts of those programs, as reflected in the Financial Health Pulse reports, had largely disappeared by 2023. While pandemic-era inflation — to be fair, in part caused by the various support and stimulus measures — had come down from as high as 9% in 2022, it has rebounded since the start of Trump’s second term, with tariffs and energy market disruptions owing to the war in Iran pushing prices back up. Specific indicators in the survey that deteriorated from 2025 to 2026 include the share of respondents spending less than their income over the past 12 months, the share paying all bills on time over the past 12 months, the share that have a manageable amount or no debt, the share that are “moderately” or “very” confident their insurance is adequate to cover them in an emergency, and the share that “somewhat” or “strongly” agree that their household plans ahead financially. Unsurprisingly, lower- and moderate-income households are more likely to struggle to pay their bills on time and have any funds leftover to save. The share of low-income households whose income exceeded their spending dropped from 35% in 2025 to 31% in 2026, while the share of upper-income households whose income exceeded expenses remained unchanged at 63%. Households with student loans or revolving credit card debt reported having “a bit more” or “far more” debt than was manageable at rates far higher than those not carrying these types of debts. The share of those with student loan debt indicating their debt load was too high to manage increased from 50% in 2025 to 55% in 2026, while the share of those with revolving credit card debt saying the same ticked up from 51% in 2025 to 54% in 2026. Households that had student loans were markedly more likely to be financially “coping” or “vulnerable” vs. those without student loans. In 2026, 27% of households with student loans were considered financially vulnerable, a jump of 6% points vs. 2025. Households without student loans saw just a 1% point increase (not statistically significant) in those considered financially vulnerable. Households’ perception of the affordability of categories of goods and services paints a stark picture, with less than one-fourth considering higher education affordable, about a third deeming childcare affordable, and less than half viewing healthcare as affordable. Fintech Business Weekly is made possible by the generous support of paying subscribers — bringing you independent analysis of banking, fintech, and crypto without fear or favor. You can support my work by becoming a paying subscriber if you aren’t already. Paying subscribers enjoy: access to the entire archive of nearly six years of newsletters extended versions of the weekly newsletter, with additional content and analysis and (for founding member tier) quarterly personal 1:1 fintech Q&A / strategy calls with me, tapping into my unparalleled knowledge of the intersection of banking and fintech and experience working in the sector, including helping to launch Goldman Sachs’ retail bank Marcus Support Fintech Business Weekly You can also support Fintech Business Weekly by sponsoring a newsletter or podcast, putting you in front of 93,000+ of the most influential decision makers in banking, fintech, and crypto. Learn more about sponsor opportunities or request a media kit by dropping me an email. Democratic Senate Report Highlights How Iran Uses Tether to Evade U.S. Sanctions Iran uses stablecoins, specifically Tether, to evade sanctions, fund regional proxies, and to purchase military drones, a report released last week by the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations says. The report was authored by committee ranking member Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and the minority staff. Crypto and stablecoin proponents will often push back on criticism that criminals make use of these assets by arguing that, on an absolute dollar basis, far more illicit funds flow through traditional banking systems and payment rails than via crypto and stablecoins. And while that is likely true, it elides the reality presented in news story after news story: whether state actors — Russia, Iran, North Korea — or criminal groups, those looking to engage in illicit transactions increasingly favor stablecoins and, specifically, Tether (USDT). The report from the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations released last week adds context to how Iran uses Tether has a lynchpin in its shadow banking system. The report analyzed 846 wallets that have been sanctioned or targeted for seizure, finding that 84% of them transacted exclusively or primarily in Tether. The ability to create near limitless, anonymous wallets and to move funds effectively instantaneously and irreversibly have made crypto a favored financial mechanism for bad actors. Stablecoins solved key drawbacks of bitcoin, namely, the original cryptocurrency’s highly volatile value in dollars. And while Tether (the company) has the technical ability to “freeze” or destroy funds, the company is often limited and reactive in its approach to doing so, the Senate report argues. Tether, which is nominally based in crypto-friendly El Salvador, “has stated that its compliance with OFAC sanctions is ‘voluntary’ and that it follows ‘OFAC guidelines,’” the Senate report says. Owing to these favorable attributes, Tether “became a primary cryptocurrency for Iran, Hamas, Hizballah, and the Houthis beginning in 2023 and has expanded in scale since,” according to the report. Tether’s role in Iran’s shadow banking system, the report says, is enhanced by crypto exchanges like Bybit, Kyrrex, OKX, Gate, and Binance, and through “over the counter” exchanges and hawala networks. The consequences of these financial flows aren’t hypothetical. The Senate report links Tether as a funds transfer mechanism to Iranian proxies in the region, including Hizballah, the Houthis, and Hamas. Tether has also been used to make payments to secure components necessary to manufacture drones, the report says. The report concludes by arguing that “[s]tablecoin issuers with a significant nexus to the United States, particularly those that offer dollar-denominated stablecoins, should be subject to American sanctions law rather than being allowed to hide behind foreign jurisdictions.” Stablecoin issuers like Tether must be held accountable for repeated failures to prevent illicit finance and sanctions violations by law enforcement, the Department of Justice, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and OFAC, the report argues. [Paying Subscriber Exclusive] OUSD Goes Live, Make Your Own Neobank, U.S. Sanctions Russia’s A7 Network As “Transnational Criminal Organization” OpenUSD, the stablecoin issued by the Open Standard consortium that includes Stripe, Visa, Mastercard, core providers, crypto firms, and numerous banks, went live last week. Social commerce platform Whop raised eyebrows in fintech by offering creators on its platform the ability to launch their own neobanks, which the company describes as “great businesses that are easy to run,” in just 15 minutes. And OFAC and FinCEN target Russia’s “shadow banking” A7 Network — more on these stories after the paywall.
Sports betting is increasingly the norm for Gen Z. Here’s why some financial and mental health experts are worried
Surveys show Gen Z increasingly views sports bets as a form of investment, and those who gamble too often face mental health risks.
Sports betting is increasingly the norm for Gen Z. Here’s why some financial and mental health experts are worried
Surveys show Gen Z increasingly views sports bets as a form of investment, and those who gamble too often face mental health risks.
A place for moms: It’s a match
The 27-question survey focused on current experiences with making friends, community connections and loneliness. It also gauged interest and willingness to meet for one-on-one mom matching based on things like logistics, availability,…
Hawai’i Small Businesses urged to complete Federal Reserve Credit Survey by Nov. 13
The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism is encouraging Hawai‘i small businesses to take part in the Federal Reserve’s 2026 Small Business Credit Survey, now open through Nov. 13.
State survey: 76% of Pa. students report good mental health
The 2025 Pennsylvania Youth Survey found 76% of students reported good overall mental health and 83% felt safe at school, state officials said.
Opinion | We Surveyed 50,674 Americans. This Is What Brings Them Together.
Americans are divided in their politics but not as sports fans.
Florida small businesses want more help offering retirement plans, AARP survey finds
'The survey shows employers want practical solutions that make retirement saving easier and more accessible for their employees.'
UC San Diego Health Doctors Earn Top Honors in Peer Recognition Survey
More than 115 UC San Diego Health physicians celebrated as the best on the annual San Diego Magazine Top Docs peer rankings.
Mothers face barriers to accessing mental healthcare, survey shows
Having theoretical access to healthcare doesn’t mean you can take advantage of it, as underscored by a report examining mothers’ experiences for themselves and their children. Released Thursday, Pulse Check 2026: Mothers on Mental Health, Care, and the Systems Around Their Families reports that nearly 48% of Florida mothers surveyed said they had struggled struggle […]
Iowa employers report stability in ABI quarterly survey
Iowa employers reported stable financial health and a neutral outlook on the economy for the fourth quarter in the Iowa Association of Business and Industry’s latest quarterly business survey. ABI surveys its board of directors each quarter to track business sentiment, identify common concerns and inform advocacy and programming priorities. Key survey findings include: Employers…
Small business owners beginning to adopt artificial intelligence, Fed study says
Small business owners are beginning to adopt artificial intelligence and are using the technology as a part of their daily operations, according to a survey by Heartland Forward.
Small business owners beginning to adopt artificial intelligence, Fed study says
Small business owners are beginning to adopt artificial intelligence and are using the technology as a part of their daily operations, according to a survey by Heartland Forward.
New Breast Cancer Survey Shows Concern not Always Leading to Screening in Women 40 and Over, According to MedStar Health
/PRNewswire/ -- A new national survey from MedStar Health reveals that three in four women are concerned about developing breast cancer in their lifetime, yet...
Local hospitals to conduct community health survey
Memorial Health partnered with Lincoln Memorial Hospital, Logan County Department of Public Health, Decatur Memorial Hospital and HSHS St. Mary’s Hospital to gather feedback from their respected communities on their needs.
Ten bucks says you’ll love this community science project
Today marks the first day of Rut Watch 2026 With another season of Deer Spy in the books thanks to community scientists like you, biologists are now on a mission to pinpoint the peak of the white-tailed deer breeding season in Maine. Every observation of deer breeding behavior and sign helps define the timing of the rut, and this project uses the power of community science to collect deer data all fall long. Hunters, hikers, and wildlife watchers - Rut Watch pairs well with any outdoor adventure you have planned this season. It’s a perfect excuse to slow down and connect with nature as you look for clues. So get outside, rack up that deer data and submit rut reports from now through December 1. The online form is science made simple: Location Date and time Breeding behavior observed Submit a Rut Report What to watch for Active Breeding The most obvious breeding behavior to observe is a buck mounting a doe, but that is a rare sight as it only lasts a moment. You are more likely to witness a buck “tending” a doe, following closely, chasing, nuzzling, or pawing at her rump until she is receptive. Sparring After bucks shed their velvet, sparring helps sort out who is who in the dominance hierarchy. Early season matches are often less intense than later season matches between similar sized bucks. Most sparring is complete by the time breeding begins. Rubs Don’t just look for deer, pay attention to the trees. Rubs are marks made by bucks when they rub their antlers on trees, removing bark and leaving their scent calling card in the process. Scrapes Look to the forest floor for this sign of breeding season behavior. Scrapes consist of two parts - a licking branch, and a patch of cleared earth. Bucks break a low branch around head height, then paw at the leaves below to expose the dirt. Covered in scent, a scrape tells does and other bucks, “I’m here!” Learn More More information What’s next for deer community science: Northern Maine Wintering Deer Survey Other active community science projects: Fish Tag Reporting Maine Golden Eagle Study Maine Amphibian & Reptile Atlas Project Maine Deer Management: Maine’s Big Game Management Plan Game Species Conservation & Management Report The Benefits of Hunting: Supporting Wildlife, Conservation, and Community Subscribe Share Leave a comment
As CDC redesigns annual health survey, it removes questions about disabilities
Proposed changes to the federal government’s health survey would undercount Americans with disabilities, advocates say.
Heartland Small Businesses Match the Nation on AI Adoption as Owners Say AI Boosts Their Bottom Line
/PRNewswire/ -- Heartland Forward, a non-profit think-and-do tank accelerating economic growth across the heartland, today released a new survey titled "AI on...