By Halloween — and perhaps much sooner, if the federal shutdown dampens demand significantly — consumers are likely to see the cheapest gas prices so far this year
Companies & Industries
Microsoft Investors: Time for Bill Gates to Go
Several shareholders at the tech giant are pushing for billionaire founder to step down as chairman
Fast Food Drive-Thru Trend: Slower Service
It’s not your imagination: Service in the fast-food drive-thru lane really has been getting slower. For consumers and restaurant chains alike, that may not be a bad thing.
Sub-$30,000 Mercedes Is Going to Cost More Than Advertised
After months of hype, the new “brand-extending” CLA line from Mercedes-Benz hits dealerships this fall, with a base sticker price starting at $29,900. But can you actually buy one for under $30,000? Um, no.
Alan Mulally Is the Right CEO to Save Microsoft
Long-time auto writer Doron Levin argues that Ford’s savior could pull the same trick at the software maker.
Was ‘Breaking Bad’ Really a Financial Hit?
For all the hype surrounding “Breaking Bad’s final season—and especially last night’s finale—the show’s ratings were not only considerably lower than those of many other cable shows, but represented only a fraction of …
Apple Beats Google, Coke as Best Brand
Google also tops the soft drink classic in brand value
How to Make Airline Tickets Less … Awful
A consumer group is calling for more reasonable airline ticket policies, including eliminating standby fees and allowing passengers to transfer unused tickets to other travelers — neither of which would cost airlines a dime. But don’t hold your breath waiting for airlines to suddenly start caring about being fair and reasonable.
Drinkers, Stoners & Insomniacs Wanted as Fast Food Expands Late-Night Menus
Diners with the munchies after midnight have more fast-food options than ever—and they’re becoming wilder and more gluttonous than ever.
Bargain Hunters Are About to Have the Best Weekend Ever
Thousands of museums around the country are offering free admission on Saturday, and thousands of coffee shops are doling out free cups of Joe on Sunday.
It’s Target Versus Amazon in the Battle for Moms
Target wants its moms back. This week, Target rolled out a new diaper-delivery plan and a family friendly on-demand video streaming option. Both services are aimed at wooing moms—in particular, moms who might otherwise give
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Black Friday Is Facing Extinction
Is Black Friday dying? More evidence is showing up indicating that the day after Thanksgiving is not the best day for finding deals. Some retail experts are even forecasting that Black Friday will disappear as an American …