Investing and Global Finance News

Category Archives: Economy

Diverse Brands Gain Ground in Resale Market

Resale platform StockX has released its midyear report on brand performance, offering a snapshot of where consumer demand is accelerating in 2025. The data compares global sales from the first half of the year to the same period in 2024, providing insight into shifting tastes in sneakers, apparel, accessories, collectibles, and shoes.

In footwear, performance-oriented designs continue to drive growth. Asics held its lead for the second year, while Salomon rebounded after a slower 2024, helped by new iterations of its core trail-running styles. Chinese brand Anta extended its rise, and Swiss company On maintained steady gains without relying on limited “hype” releases. These results suggest performance brands are broadening their reach beyond niche audiences.

Collectibles remain a high-velocity segment. Pop Mart’s Labubu character sustained a dominant position, benefiting from both viral popularity and the blind box sales model, which could have applications in other consumer categories. Trading cards also saw renewed momentum, with Pokémon and Topps each posting significant growth tied to product launches and secondary market price appreciation.

In accessories, artist collaborations proved potent drivers. Takashi Murakami’s projects with New Era and Louis Vuitton generated rapid sell-outs and strong resale premiums, reinforcing the investment value of well-executed creative partnerships.

Apparel activity was boosted by sports culture, with Cactus Plant Flea Market’s jersey-inspired releases and Mitchell & Ness’s classic basketball lines attracting sustained buyer interest. Outside sneakers, brands like Clarks and Bravest Studios found demand by offering distinctive styles that stand apart from mass trends.

The trends point to cultural relevance, scarcity, and creative partnerships as central forces shaping growth in the resale market.

GIA’s New Lab-Grown Diamond Labels Signal a Major Shift

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is transitioning to a new grading system for lab-grown diamonds (LGDs), moving away from the traditional 4C’s — color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. Under the new system, LGDs will be categorized as “premium” or “standard” based on quality characteristics. This change aims to provide consumers with clearer and… Continue Reading

Top Tips for Back-to-School Shopping

With the start of August comes the bustle of back-to-school shopping. From elementary through high school, parents brace themselves for the steep financial outlay, with the average family expected to shell out around $875 on school essentials this year, a figure sourced from the National Retail Federation’s latest survey. Retail experts share top tips to… Continue Reading

Disneyland Characters Vote to Unionize

At Disneyland in Anaheim, California, the majority of cast members who work as characters, such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, voted to unionize with the Actors’ Equity Association. On Saturday, these performers cast their ballots under the oversight of the National Labor Relations Board, with 953 voting in favor. This decision marked a significant victory… Continue Reading

Pretzels – “Knot” Just a Snack

The simple pretzel, a savory and reliable snack option, has experienced a recent innovative shakeup. This phenomenon has led to a large projected growth of 1.59 billion USD from 2023-2028, according to Technavio. With companies like Campbell Soup Company introducing flavors like Beer Cheese Pretzel Pieces, melding rich, creamy tastes with the classic crunch of… Continue Reading

Founder of Bob’s Red Mill Passes Away at Age 94

Bob Moore, the esteemed founder of Bob’s Red Mill and a prominent figure in the natural foods industry, has died at the age of 94. Moore, who passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 10, 2024, is celebrated for his indelible impact on the health food sector and his unwavering commitment to whole… Continue Reading

Concerns about Holiday Spending

The upcoming holiday season poses challenges for U.S. retailers in apparel, electronics, and home improvement sectors. Businesses are unsure if increased discounts will drive anticipated consumer spending. October’s sales figures indicated a slowdown in economic demand, leading to a mixed holiday outlook as retailers gear up for Christmas shopping. To entice consumers during Thanksgiving, retailers… Continue Reading

Flying Taxis on the Horizon

While flying taxis may seem like the wave of the far off future, the F.A.A recently published a report delineating a plan for an air taxi market by 2028. Though there are many obstacles to overcome in order to create a market for air taxis, the FAA is confident about their 2028 start date. Air… Continue Reading

Businesses Adopting Sustainability Model in 2023

A recent report from Aflac shows that 77% of 2023 consumers are more willing to buy from a company with a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) pledge. In 2023, businesses are incorporating sustainability into their models. Adopting a sustainable approach, though, may require large overhauls to the company’s operations. Top organizations are recognizing the importance of… Continue Reading