⚙️ Smart shift
Artificial intelligence (AI) is making a smart shift. U.S. consumer tech spending is projected to hit $565 billion* in 2026, a 3.7% jump from last year. AI-capable PCs are on track to make up more than half* of all shipments, signaling a shift in how people work, shop, and interact with tech.
More than a quarter of Americans (28%) can't imagine working without AI tools, according to Empower research. Their connection to the technology also affects their finances: 48% feel more confident about reaching their money goals with the help of AI.
— The Editors
💳 Fraud check: The FBI reported $199 million in fraud losses during the 2024 holiday season, so it’s worth checking if small “test” charges are showing up on this month’s credit-card bills. A smart statement scan can help catch repeat charges before they add up.
🗨️ Talking AI: Chatbots can fast-track money questions, but privacy and accuracy still matter — and 76% of Americans say technology can provide financial information, but they’re cautious when it comes to judgment or trust, according to Empower research.
🛋️ Tariff timeout: Planned hikes on imported furniture and kitchen cabinets are on hold until at least 2027, keeping duties parked at 25% as talks continue. That’s short-term relief for retailers and remodelers, even as furniture prices ran 4.6% higher year over year, according to the Consumer Price Index for November 2025.
🛻 Drive on: Ford posted its best annual sales since 2019, driven by strong demand for its Maverick trucks and Bronco SUVs. The automaker sold 2.2 million vehicles in 2025 — up 6%* year over year — while overall U.S. auto sales rose 2.4%.*
Protein flex
Resolution season is shifting into gear: 25% of people plan to exercise more and 22% plan to eat healthier, and protein could be smart fuel for both goals.
Dunkin’ is rolling out a protein-forward menu* — protein refreshers and protein lattes — while Starbucks is leaning* into protein-enhanced matcha and latte options.
The timing tracks with Empower research showing strong interest in higher-protein food and drinks — a small daily upgrade many are prioritizing. In the U.S., 72% say they’d pay more for protein-boosted menu items.
Pay clarity
New California* measures that took effect on January 1 shift existing pay transparency rules up a gear, adding job-posting disclosures and equity-comp analyses.
A total of 15 states have pay transparency laws, including Delaware, where measures will take effect in 2027.
Read more about employee equity compensation on The CurrencyTM.
Turtle tech
Meet RoboTurtle,* a crowd-pleaser at the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show with a mission: It’s a bio-inspired swimmer that quietly steers through lakes and shorelines to check water quality, spot trouble, and gather samples.
For those interested in working in this field, environmental scientists and specialists are projected to grow 4%* through 2034, with a 2024 median pay of $80,060.
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*Third-party data is obtained from sources believed to be reliable; however, Empower cannot guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, completeness, or fitness of this data for any particular purpose. Third-party links are provided solely as a convenience and do not imply an affiliation, endorsement, responsibility, or approval by Empower of the contents on such third-party websites.
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The Currency editors
Staff contributors
The CurrencyTM writers and editors cover the latest financial news and insights shaping how we live, work, and play. The team provides accurate, data-driven, and timely content aimed at empowering financial freedom for all.
The content contained in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and is not meant to constitute legal, tax, accounting or investment advice. You should consult a qualified legal or tax professional regarding your specific situation. No part of this blog, nor the links contained therein is a solicitation or offer to sell securities. Compensation for freelance contributions not to exceed $1,250. Third-party data is obtained from sources believed to be reliable; however, Empower cannot guarantee the accuracy, timeliness, completeness or fitness of this data for any particular purpose. Third-party links are provided solely as a convenience and do not imply an affiliation, endorsement or approval by Empower of the contents on such third-party websites. This article is based on current events, research, and developments at the time of publication, which may change over time.
Certain sections of this blog may contain forward-looking statements that are based on our reasonable expectations, estimates, projections and assumptions. Past performance is not a guarantee of future return, nor is it indicative of future performance. Investing involves risk. The value of your investment will fluctuate and you may lose money.
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