Luigi Mangione is facing life without parole in the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in New York. Manhattan DA Alvin Bragg announced three murder charges yesterday, including first-degree murder and two counts of second-degree murder. “This was a frightening, well-planned, targeted murder that was intended to cause shock and attention and intimidation,” Bragg said. (UPI)
Retail sales increased by 0.7% in November, with auto dealers in particular seeing a 2.6% jump. The rise in spending indicates a healthy economy, potentially impacting the Federal Reserve’s approach to interest rates. However, sales at grocery stores, clothing shops, and restaurants declined, showing some remaining consumer caution amidst the progress. (AP)
Japanese automakers Honda and Nissan are reportedly in talks to merge under a single holding company to compete in the EV market. The merger may include Mitsubishi Motors to create one of the world’s largest auto groups. Both companies admit to exploring collaboration opportunities, particularly focusing on electric vehicle initiatives. (CBS News)
Teen drug use has not returned to pre-pandemic levels, as indicated by a national survey showing high rates of abstinence from alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco among 8th, 10th, and 12th graders. The only notable increase was in nicotine pouches. About two-thirds of 12th graders say they haven’t used alcohol, marijuana, cigarettes or e-cigarettes in the previous 30 days. (ABC News)
Grubhub agreed to a $25 million settlement for deceptive practices, misleading customers on delivery costs and drivers on potential earnings. The FTC and Illinois Attorney General accused Grubhub of unlawful behavior, including inflated service fees and false advertising of pay rates. Grubhub must change its platform practices to ensure transparency and truthfulness. (NBC News)
