Letters from an American January 18, 2025
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Jan 19, 2025 Delve into the FTC's investigation revealing how big companies manipulate prices via consumer data. The ethics of the incoming president's business ties spark controversy amidst his inauguration, highlighting a stark divide between supporters and critics. Meanwhile, urgent governance challenges arise, from bird flu outbreaks to a looming debt ceiling crisis, paired with contentious immigration plans that complicate the new administration's transition.
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Personalized Pricing
- The FTC's initial findings reveal that online retailers, through intermediaries, are employing surveillance to personalize pricing.
- This targeted pricing strategy utilizes data like location, browsing history, and even mouse movements to adjust prices for individual consumers.
FTC's Actions Against Corporations
- The FTC, under Lena Khan's leadership, took significant actions against large corporations for various antitrust violations.
- These actions included lawsuits against John Deere, pharmacy benefit managers, Greystar, and Pepsi, among others.
Trump's Cryptocurrency Launch
- President-elect Trump launched his own cryptocurrency, making over $25 billion (on paper).
- Ethics experts criticized this move as exploiting his office for personal gain.