All that glitters is … silver? – While the rising price of gold has gotten attention lately as the geopolitical climate continues to look murky, silver prices rose nearly 12% last week. The precious metal is trending toward $100 per ounce after being under $50 per ounce as recently as November 2025 and only $30 per ounce one year ago. (Source: FactSet)

Putting a pin in the picket fence – The US housing market saw a sharp imbalance in November 2025, with 37% more sellers than buyers—one of the widest gaps on record. The number of homebuyers dropped 2.5% month-over-month in November, the biggest monthly decline since April 2025 and the lowest level on record since April 2020. Many of those buyers are stuck sitting on the sidelines thanks to high prices, higher rates, and economic uncertainty. (Source: Redfin)

What are they making, New Coke?? – US manufacturing employment fell every month since the announcement of US tariffs raised input costs and brought uncertainty. Except for the pandemic lockdown, US manufacturing jobs are at their lowest since early 2018. The decline is exceptionally noticeable as manufacturing had more than recovered post-pandemic and hit a high in early 2023. (Source: BLS)

To cut or not to cut, that is the question – UK inflation rose higher than expected in December by 3.4%, slightly above expectations of 3%. The increase was driven partly by higher tobacco prices following new excise duties, along with rising airfares and food costs. The surprise uptick complicates the Bank of England's expected rate cuts. (Source: CNBC)

Dry January, who? – Google searches for “No Buy January” hit a five-year high as more Americans—especially Gen Z and millennials—embrace a monthlong freeze on nonessential spending. Surveys show more than a quarter of US adults have attempted a no-spend January, a trend fueled by rising costs and growing financial anxiety. Many participants say the challenge offers a sense of control as inflation keeps everyday expenses elevated. (Source: The Wall Street Journal)

Want to play in my sandbox? – Canada and China struck an initial trade deal last week as both nations promised to tear down trade barriers while forging new strategic ties during Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit. Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had levied 100% tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, which resulted in China retaliating with $2.6 billion in tariffs on Canadian agricultural products. (Source: Reuters)

And you thought Alexa was the only one listening – Some extraordinary dogs can learn the names of new toys without any direct training at all. In a study of gifted pups, seven out of 10 retrieved newly named toys correctly without being told the names, suggesting some dogs can pick up vocabulary by eavesdropping and observational learning. (Source: AP News)

Trix are for American kids, only – Junk-food advertisements in the UK are now banned on TV and online as part of a drive to tackle childhood obesity. The UK-wide ban stops food and drinks high in fat, salt, and sugar being advertised on TV before 9:00 pm and at any time online. It applies to products considered to be the biggest drivers of childhood obesity, including soft drinks, chocolates and sweets, pizza, and ice cream. (Source: BBC)

The one time "gross" is a good thing – Academy Award-winning actress Zoe Saldaña became the highest-grossing actor of all time with the release of the third installment in the Avatar series, "Avatar: Fire and Ash." Between her starring roles in the Avatar and Avengers series, which account for three of the highest-grossing films of all time, and the Star Trek trilogy, which generated more than $1 billion worldwide, it's no surprise she's risen to the top. (Source: Variety)

Someone call Mr. Spielberg – Indiana University completed one of the most improbable turnarounds in sports history, going from the most losing program in college football to national champion. The Hoosiers defeated Miami 27-21 in the national championship game, capping a perfect 16-0 season―the first major college football team do so since Yale in 1894. (Source: The Athletic)