Federal officials say homelessness rose 18% in 2024, driven mostly by a lack of affordable housing. Source

Marc Fogel, a Pennsylvania man imprisoned in Russia, has been designated as “wrongfully detained,” according to the U.S. Department of State. Source

The National Retail Federation expects about 17% of sales to be returned this year. Source

Severe weather impacting travel; Times Square New Year’s Eve ball installed in New York City. Source

There could be repercussions for not paying credit card debt that’s gone into collections. Here’s what they are. Source

Only 10 states require students to take a personal finance course to graduate from high school, but by 2031, it’s expected to jump to 26. Studies show requiring financial education improves credit scores, lowers loan delinquency rates and reduces the likelihood of falling behind on credit card payments. Source

In this week’s “The Dish,” Nancy Chen visits Cartwright’s Maple Tree Inn in Western New York, a family-owned gem open just nine weeks a year. Known for its renowned buckwheat pancakes and made-on-site maple syrup, the restaurant attracts diners from all over the world despite its remote location. Source

As President Biden and former President Trump break age records, more people are asking how old is too old to serve in government. Health issues with lawmakers such as Texas Rep. Kay Granger, who hasn’t voted due to health problems, are fueling the debate about age and term limits in politics. Source

The proposed rule is required under a law passed by Congress last year, and is intended to ensure the safety of makeup and baby powder. Source

A judge ruled that a woman who says​ she was raped by Jay-Z and Sean “Diddy” Combs when she was 13 can proceed anonymously, for now, in her lawsuit against the rap moguls. Source