Cars
Used-car prices dip as gas costs surge, signaling strain on household budgets
Analysts say consumers are delaying vehicle purchases, trading down to cheaper models, or shifting toward used EVs to offset fuel costs
Latest
Strait jitters return as new U.S.-Iran strikes collide with inflation report, Salesforce stumble, Costco verdict and a softening used-car market
By Perplexity American consumers woke up Thursday to a fresh round of headlines that promise to keep wallets pinched and policymakers on edge. Overnight, the United States carried out a second limited strike in southern Iran while Tehran claimed it had hit a U.S. air base near the Strait
Cars
U.S. consumers showing signs of SUV fatigue, as life begins to stir in long-neglected sedans
Price, fuel costs, and generational tastes are all playing a role
Recalls
National Recall Roundup, May 27
A few new recalls while other recall campaigns continue
Cars
What's a safe car for teen drivers? Here's an authoritative, no-hype, no-ads list
Consumer Reports and insurers have 45 suggestions for used and new cars that offer good crash protection and are suitable for teen drivers.
Money
Robinhood lets AI agents trade stocks and make purchases for consumers
Consumer advocates warn the technology could create new fraud, error and overspending risks
Money
Big-box retailers chase the tariff refund pot
Spring housing market anemic, gas prices could hit $5 nationwide
Money
How do you build an emergency fund in inflationary times?
It's not easy but it can be done, and now's the time to do it
Consumer Protection
Security deposit ‘alternatives’ may leave renters paying more — with fewer protections
A new report warns that security deposit “alternative” products can cost tenants more than traditional deposits while stripping away key legal protections
Money
Walmart says it has to raise prices, and that customers are tapping out
Both low- and high-income customers are spending more carefully as consumer confidence falls on war news and rising energy costs
Recalls
National Recall Roundup, May 25
Hyundai expands one recall, adds another
AI/Privacy
Google’s Gemini AI shopping push raises new questions about hidden advertising and paid product placement
Ads, paid placements, sponsored content, user reviews - is there a difference anymore?