Business

In the wake of TikTok’s recent ownership restructuring, a wave of users is exploring alternative social media platforms. One app that has emerged as a frontrunner is UpScrolled, which has quickly gained popularity, currently ranking 12th overall in the Apple App Store and second in the social networking category.

Founded last year by Issam Hijazi, a Palestinian-Jordanian-Australian technologist, UpScrolled aims to provide a space for users to “freely express thoughts, share moments, and connect with others.” The app combines features reminiscent of Instagram and X, allowing users to share photos, videos, and text posts, discover new content, and engage in direct messaging. Its founders emphasize a commitment to impartiality, asserting that the platform is built for the people, devoid of hidden algorithms or external influences.

In the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, a significant shift is occurring that could redefine the global tech hierarchy. While the United States has long been seen as the leader in AI innovation, recent developments suggest that China is emerging as a formidable competitor. Companies like Pinterest and Airbnb are increasingly turning to Chinese AI models, marking a trend that could have lasting implications for the industry.

Pinterest, a platform known for its visual discovery and inspiration, has recently integrated Chinese AI technology into its operations. The launch of China’s DeepSeek R-1 model in January 2025 has been a game-changer for the company. CEO Bill Ready describes this “DeepSeek moment” as a breakthrough, highlighting the advantages of open-source models that allow for customization and flexibility. This shift has enabled Pinterest to enhance its recommendation engine, effectively transforming the platform into an AI-powered shopping assistant.

On January 21, 2026, U.S. equities experienced a significant rebound following President Donald Trump’s announcement regarding the suspension of new tariffs on European goods, which he attributed to a newly established framework for a deal concerning Greenland. This unexpected turn of events came during Trump’s speech at the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, where he also assured that he would not resort to military action to acquire the territory.

In a significant move within the medical technology sector, Boston Scientific Corporation has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Penumbra, Inc. for a cash and stock transaction that values Penumbra at $374 per share, amounting to an enterprise value of approximately $14.5 billion. This acquisition is poised to enhance Boston Scientific’s portfolio in the cardiovascular domain, particularly in addressing the rising prevalence of vascular diseases.

The announcement was made on January 15, 2026, with Boston Scientific’s CEO, Mike Mahoney, expressing enthusiasm about the acquisition. He highlighted Penumbra’s established reputation and innovative capabilities in the vascular space, which will allow Boston Scientific to enter fast-growing segments such as mechanical thrombectomy and neurovascular treatments. Mahoney stated, “The addition of Penumbra can expand access for these novel technologies to more patients and customers around the world, further enhancing our revenue and margins over time.”

In a significant move that could reshape the landscape of sports betting, the NCAA has formally requested the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to halt prediction markets focused on college sports until stronger safeguards are implemented. This request was made by NCAA president Charlie Baker in a letter to the CFTC’s chairman, highlighting the potential risks these markets pose to both the welfare of student-athletes and the integrity of collegiate competitions.

MEBANE, N.C. — Excitement is building as Buc-ee’s, the popular Texas-based travel center chain known for its clean bathrooms and extensive snack selection, prepares to open its first store in North Carolina by May 2027. The new location will be situated on a sprawling 32-acre site off Interstate 40/85 in Alamance County, specifically at 1425 Trollingwood-Hawfields Road.

Construction for this highly anticipated travel center commenced in late 2025, and by mid-2026, onlookers can expect to see the walls of this impressive facility taking shape. Buc-ee’s travel centers typically require between 12 to 18 months for completion, and this one promises to be no exception. Upon its opening, the Mebane Buc-ee’s will boast a massive 74,000-square-foot building, standing at approximately 39 feet tall—equivalent to a three-story structure.

The business world is abuzz as Berkshire Hathaway embarks on a new chapter following the historic tenure of Warren Buffett, who officially passed the CEO baton to Greg Abel. On Abel’s first day in the role, Class A shares dipped by 1.4%, reflecting investor sentiment as they adjusted to the end of an era that spanned over six decades. Buffett, now 95 years old, remains the chairman and has been vocal in assuring stakeholders that the conglomerate’s future remains bright beyond his leadership.

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As the holiday season approaches, the bustling Amapola Market in Downey, California, transforms into a pilgrimage site for families eager to uphold a cherished culinary tradition. Each year, tens of thousands flock to this beloved grocery store to purchase freshly produced masa, the essential dough for making tamales—a festive staple in many Latin American households.

On December 23, 2025, the lines at Amapola Market stretched around the parking lot as dedicated shoppers waited for hours to secure their masa. Among them was Christina Chavarria, who had already prepared nearly 200 tamales but returned for more masa, drawn by its unbeatable quality. “It’s always seasoned perfect, ready to go,” she remarked, embodying the sentiment shared by many who consider Amapola’s masa a holiday essential.

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