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Subprime Borrowing Surge Pushes US Personal Loan Balances to Record Highs

Chicago, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Unsecured personal loan balances jumped 10 percent to a record $276 billion, fueled by a massive 32.5 percent surge in subprime originations, signaling shifting consumer credit risks.

The High Price of Frustration: Americans Lose $165 Billion to the Annoyance Economy

New York, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Corporations are monetizing your frustration. A new analysis reveals that intentionally difficult cancellation processes and administrative friction cost Americans $165 billion annually, while boosting corporate revenue streams by up to 200%.

US Goods Deficit Hits Record High Despite Aggressive Tariff Policies

Washington D.C., Thursday, 19 February 2026.
While the overall deficit stabilized, the gap for physical goods surged to a record $1.24 trillion, defying expectations that steep tariffs would revive domestic manufacturing.

Healthcare Investors Demand Proven AI and Cybersecurity Over Theory in 2026

New York, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Investors are prioritizing “AI that ships” over theoretical models in 2026. With 70% of AI pilots failing, funding now hinges on proven execution, cybersecurity, and interoperability.

Fiscal Analysis Reveals Immigrants Reduced U.S. Deficit by $14.5 Trillion

Washington, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Contrary to political rhetoric, a new study finds immigrants generated 14% of tax revenue while consuming only 7% of spending, effectively reducing the national deficit by $14.5 trillion.

S&P 500 Earnings Surge as Revenue Growth Hits Three-Year High

New York, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
S&P 500 earnings rose 12.7%, marking the tenth consecutive quarter of growth. Notably, revenue increased 9.0%, the fastest pace since 2022, driven primarily by strong technology sector performance.

Fed Minutes Reveal Deep Division Over Future Interest Rate Path

Washington, Thursday, 19 February 2026.
Minutes from the January meeting reveal a sharp divide among Federal Reserve officials, with debates intensifying over potential rate hikes and the emerging economic impact of artificial intelligence.