Morning Brew Daily

Amid a government shutdown, the latest jobs report reveals mixed signals about the economy. Walmart thrives as consumers prioritize affordability, while safety concerns about AI toys prompt warnings from critics. Amtrak celebrates a record year, showcasing its growth and investments. Meanwhile, Bath & Body Works faces challenges with its strategy and brand perception. Lastly, anticipation builds for 'Wicked: For Good,' expected to break box office records despite early reviews.

Discover how Nvidia's strong earnings are easing fears over an AI bubble. Explore Target's ongoing struggles and attempts to turn its fortunes around. A surprisingly affordable Thanksgiving dinner may be on the horizon due to aggressive turkey pricing. Dive into the art world with Gustav Klimt's record-setting $236.4 million sale and intriguing auction stories. Plus, learn about the origins of kissing, tracing back to a common ape ancestor, and some captivating underdog stories from the World Cup.

Mark Zuckerberg celebrates a court victory as Meta is cleared of monopoly claims. Meanwhile, Home Depot's weak performance raises economic concerns, while Panera Bread aims for a resurgence by focusing on quality. Pinkfong's IPO reveals that while 'Baby Shark' garnered billions of views, revenue hasn't matched expectations. Additionally, a significant internet outage underscores vulnerabilities in web infrastructure. Finally, Eminem challenges Swim Shady over trademark issues, highlighting ongoing artistic battles.

Dive into the surprising trend of unpopular jobs becoming desirable as the labor market shifts under pressure. Explore Jeff Bezos' bold entry into the AI landscape with a startup focused on physical world modeling, backed by impressive funding. Bitcoin's recent plunge raises eyebrows on Wall Street, and Gen Z is redefining dining with a preference for communal tables, promoting social interactions and shared experiences. Meanwhile, Warren Buffett makes headlines with his first investment in Google, sparking discussions on tech stocks.

Trump is rolling back tariffs on beef and coffee to combat rising food prices, though the real impact on grocery bills is up for debate. Meanwhile, Hollywood faces a crisis as big-name stars fail to draw audiences, raising questions about the future of theaters. In legal news, Charlie Javice is causing ripples at JPMorgan with exorbitant charges, while iconic CEOs from top companies prepare for retirement, reflecting a shift toward leaders adept in AI and cost efficiency. It's a week packed with significant news!

Michael Burry, the renowned 'Big Short' investor, draws parallels between the AI boom and the 2008 housing bubble, sparking dialogue on the fragility of earnings in the AI sector. Meanwhile, new government restrictions threaten the hemp industry, driven by lobbying efforts. Cisco Systems appears to be making a comeback thanks to a surge in AI-related demand. On a lighter note, Robinhood launches a cash delivery service, while Uber introduces rides for skiers to major resorts—perfect for winter adventurers!

The longest government shutdown in U.S. history has ended, but its economic effects linger. Discover which industries emerged as winners and losers in the fallout. Google is taking action against text phishing scams, revealing how these shady operations work. Explore the rising trend of grade inflation at Harvard and its implications. Also, the significance of the final U.S. penny minted is discussed, touching on its cultural impact and production costs. Plus, Ryanair shifts to digital-only boarding passes—no more printed tickets!

In a bold investment shift, SoftBank sells its $5.8 billion Nvidia stake to focus on OpenAI, raising eyebrows in the tech industry. Meanwhile, Visa and Mastercard's settlement allows merchants to reject costly reward cards, potentially changing the payment landscape. With U.S. air travel facing chaos, buses and trains are experiencing a surge in popularity as reliable alternatives. Lastly, Netflix dives into physical entertainment with the launch of Netflix House in Philadelphia, challenging traditional amusement parks.

Best-selling author and journalist Michael Lewis, known for works like The Big Short and Moneyball, joins the discussion to reflect on the film's 10th anniversary and its ties to the 2008 financial crisis. He shares insights on the current AI landscape, warning it may mirror past bubbles. Michael delves into the risks of sports gambling and the ethical concerns it raises. He also playfully explores modern casting choices for The Big Short, contributing his unique perspective on storytelling and the importance of strong characters.

Toby and Kyle dive into the controversial idea of OpenAI potentially being 'too big to fail' amidst discussions of government backstops. They also explore President Trump's proposal for 50-year mortgages, weighing its affordability against long-term costs. Netflix's reimagining of 'Sesame Street' is on the table, aiming to reconnect with audiences. Additionally, the frenzy over Starbucks’ bear-shaped cup sparks both excitement and backlash. They round out the conversation with insights on looming economic data delays due to the government shutdown.