Why cocoa prices are soaring to record levels
Higher cocoa prices are hitting chocolate lovers' wallets. CBS News reporter Taurean Small explains what's driving the increase, and what chocolate brands are doing to adapt.
Consumer News
Red Lobster is closing nearly 50 restaurants. Here's where.
The struggling restaurant chain is moving to cut costs by shuttering restaurants in 21 states.
Saving money on products others return
The National Retail Federation estimates $743 billion worth of merchandise was returned last year. Buyers and sellers can't wait to get their hands on the products at bin stores, where the rejected items of others get a second lease on life, for a fraction of the price.
Why spending to save may be costing you more
If you buy more items than you need to get a discount, you might be guilty of "spaving" -- or spending more to save money. While retailers' clever marketing ploys convince you you're getting a deal, the practice often leads to overspending. CBS News MoneyWatch reporter Megan Cerullo explains the financial pitfall and how to avoid it.
Dell notifies customers affected by data breach
The tech giant disclosed Thursday that a database was accessed through a Dell portal, which contains a database of customer information. CBS News' John Dickerson has the details.
FTX says it plans to pay back most customers
FTX says most of its customers will receive some of their money back nearly two years after the cryptocurrency exchange collapsed. Yesha Yadav, associate dean of Vanderbilt Law School, joins CBS News to discuss how the payback will work.
Airbnb launches new "Icons" experience
Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky has introduced "Icons," a new collection of unique experiences. This collection features stays at the "X-Men" mansion, the Minneapolis house from "Purple Rain" complete with exclusive Prince music, a private tour in the clocktower room of Musée d'Orsay and an immersive visit to the Ferrari Museum in Italy.
Exclusive
Whistleblower speaks out on quality issues at Boeing supplier
Former Spirit AeroSystems worker Santiago Paredes was responsible for checking 737 Max fuselages before they were shipped to Boeing.
Swifties traveling to Europe for concerts
As Taylor Swift kicks off the European leg of her Eras Tour, thousands of American "Swifties" are taking the trip to catch the show. CBS News' Errol Barnett and Lana Zak explain why.
Panera to stop selling Charged Sips caffeinated drinks at center of lawsuits
Panera is phasing out a highly caffeinated selection of lemonade beverages that's at the center of several lawsuits.
Peloton, once hailed as the future of fitness, is now sucking wind
Peloton CEO Barry McCarthy exits as it lays off more staff. What's ailing the fitness company?
Some 401(k) plans may cut you a monthly check
Some companies are offering fixed monthly checks from a portion of workers' 401(k) retirement plans, according to a new report by the Wall Street Journal. CBS News contributor Javier E. David breaks down the process gaining momentum.
Federal Reserve holds rates steady. Here's the financial impact.
The Fed is leaving its benchmark interest rate unchanged, noting a lack of progress in curbing inflation.
Walmart launches gourmet food brand
Walmart is rolling out a new label, bettergoods, designed to appeal to younger customers looking for gourmet food at more affordable prices. The company says the brand will feature 300 new "chef-inspired" food products with many priced as low as $5. CBS News MoneyWatch associate managing editor Aimee Picchi has more.
Elder fraud on the rise in the U.S.
Scams targeting people over 60 are on the rise in the U.S., with $3.4 billion being stolen just last year, according to a new FBI report. Nicole Sganga reports.
Schemes targeting seniors account for $3.4 billion in reported losses, FBI says
Reports of elder fraud crimes increased by 14% in 2023, according to a new federal report.
Inside America's child care crisis
The United States is facing a child care crisis as working parents across the country are struggling to cover the costs, while providers are sounding the alarm that the federal funding cut last year is making it harder for them to stay afloat. Nikole Killion looks at one child care center in New Hampshire that is on the verge of shutting down.
Why the U.S. struggles to combat romance scams
Local and federal authorities face challenges in investigating and prosecuting romance scammers because the scammers are often based overseas. Jim Axelrod explains.
Buttigieg on new rules for airline refunds
The Transportation Department announced new rules Wednesday requiring airlines to issue automatic cash refunds for flight cancelations or delays, delayed baggage returns and services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are paid for but not provided. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg joins CBS News to discuss the changes and how airlines are reacting.
Widow's scam story serves as cautionary tale
A widow looking for love was scammed out of $1.5 million before her tragic death. Her daughter is now on a mission to share her mom's story, hoping it spurs change.
FTC sues to block $8.5 billion merger of Coach and Michael Kors owners
Proposed deal "threatens to deprive consumers of the competition for affordable handbags," federal agency says.
Here's how to track the status of your 2024 tax refund
Millions of Americans filed their taxes during the last two weeks of this year's tax season. Here's how to find out when you'll get your refund.
U.S. News lists its best electric and hybrid vehicles for 2024
Foreign automakers dominate U.S. News' list of the best new EVs and hybrids, while Tesla is shut out.
Americans lose millions to wire transfer fraud. Could banks do more to stop it?
"Their job is to protect our investments," said one man whose bank account was drained of $15,000. "Otherwise, what's the point of putting it with a bank?"
Trader Joe's pulls fresh basil in 29 states after salmonella outbreak
Health officials are warning consumers not to consume Infinite Herbs basil sold at some Trader Joe's and Dierberg's stores after 12 people were sickened.
New Texas college, UATX, encourages civil discourse and free speech
UATX President Pano Kanelos said the school looks for students who think deeply and challenge norms. The University of Austin was founded to encourage free speech and open debate.
Poll: Trump starts on positive note as most approve of transition handling
Democrats say they're concerned or scared Trump will threaten their rights, but fewer than half feel motivated to oppose him.
Duckworth says Trump Pentagon pick is "flat-out wrong" about women in combat
Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth said that Pete Hegseth is "flat-out wrong" in his view that women should not serve in the military in combat roles.
Potential winter storms forecast across the U.S. on Thanksgiving week
Forecasters have warned of another round of winter weather that could complicate travel around the Thanksgiving holiday.
Former Israeli hostages mark 1 year since war's only release deal
The only truce in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on Nov. 24, 2023 – fewer than two months after fighting began – led to the release of 80 Israelis held by militants in Gaza.
Congress stalemate causing backlog in aid applications after Helene
Helene ransacked western North Carolina on Sept. 27, leaving a path of devastation, death and an economic calamity from which the state will need years to recover.
Connecticut couple charged in $1 million Lululemon theft operation
A couple from Connecticut is charged with allegedly orchestrating a retail theft operation that may have cost Lululemon as much as $1 million.
A team of researchers has warned about "pink cocaine" for over a year
The death of music star Liam Payne has thrust "pink cocaine," sometimes also called Tusi, into the national spotlight. The National Drug Early Warning System predicted its rise back in 2023.
Israel says, rabbi killed in the UAE in "heinous antisemitic terror incident"
Zvi Kogan, 28, an ultra-Orthodox rabbi who went missing on Thursday, ran a Kosher grocery store in the futuristic city of Dubai.
U.S.
More U.S.
A team of researchers has warned about "pink cocaine" for over a year
The death of music star Liam Payne has thrust "pink cocaine," sometimes also called Tusi, into the national spotlight. The National Drug Early Warning System predicted its rise back in 2023.
Connecticut couple charged in $1 million Lululemon theft operation
A couple from Connecticut is charged with allegedly orchestrating a retail theft operation that may have cost Lululemon as much as $1 million.
H.R. McMaster says coming months are "really critical" for Ukraine
Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster said that Russia and Ukraine are both incentivized to make "as many gains on the battlefield as they can before the new Trump administration comes in."
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Nov. 24, 2024
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Sen. Rand Paul and Tammy Duckworth join Margaret Brennan.
Chuck Woolery, host of "Love Connection" and "Scrabble," dies at 83
Chuck Woolery was inducted into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in 2007 and earned a daytime Emmy nomination in 1978.
MoneyWatch
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Hyundai, Kia recall more than 208,000 electric vehicles over power loss issue
Car dealers will inspect and replace the control unit and a fuse if needed, as well as update software.
Who is Scott Bessent? What to know about Trump's Treasury secretary pick.
If confirmed, Bessent would runn the department that manages the nation's finances as well as its tax agency, the Internal Revenue Service.
Trump selects Scott Bessent for Treasury secretary
Scott Bessent, the founder of the Connecticut-based hedge fund Key Square Group, had been making a full-court press for the post.
Walmart must pay driver it accused of fraud $35 million, jury says
A jury ruled that Walmart must pay a former employee almost $35 million after finding that the retailer defamed him.
Eggs are getting scarcer and pricier ahead of the holidays. Here's why.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza — also known as bird flu — is killing layer hens and reducing the nation's egg supply.
Politics
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Congress stalemate causing backlog in aid applications after Helene
Helene ransacked western North Carolina on Sept. 27, leaving a path of devastation, death and an economic calamity from which the state will need years to recover.
H.R. McMaster says coming months are "really critical" for Ukraine
Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster said that Russia and Ukraine are both incentivized to make "as many gains on the battlefield as they can before the new Trump administration comes in."
Full transcript of "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Nov. 24, 2024
On this "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" broadcast, Sen. Rand Paul and Tammy Duckworth join Margaret Brennan.
Duckworth says Trump Pentagon pick is "flat-out wrong" about women in combat
Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth said that Pete Hegseth is "flat-out wrong" in his view that women should not serve in the military in combat roles.
Transcript: Rep.-elect Sarah McBride on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan," Nov. 24, 2024
The following is a transcript of an interview with Rep.-elect Sarah McBride, Democrat of Delaware, on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" that aired on Nov. 24, 2024.
HealthWatch
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A study to devise nutritional guidance just for you
When it comes to eating healthy, all of us respond to foods differently. The National Institutes of Health's new nutrition study hopes to finally provide Americans a personalized answer to the question: "What should I eat?"
A study to personalize nutrition guidance just for you
From the four food groups to the Food Pyramid, the U.S. government has long offered guidance to Americans hoping to eat a healthier diet. But there's growing scientific consensus that when it comes to eating healthy, all of us respond to foods differently. And to prove it, the National Institutes of Health has embarked on the most ambitious nutrition study ever, hoping to finally provide Americans a personalized answer to the question: "What should I eat?" Correspondent Lee Cowan reports.
New treatments offer hope for older patients with a deadly cancer diagnosis
Glioblastoma typically kills within 18 months, but a new type of treatment has kept Nadya El-Afandi's scans clear 17 months after diagnosis.
1 infant dead in California, 9 hospitalized in latest listeria outbreak
Laboratory findings show that Yu-Shang Food ready-to-eat meat and poultry products were making people sick, the CDC said.
E. coli outbreak in St. Louis sickens 106, hospitalizes 2
More than half of the cases involve students, parents and guests of Rockwood Summit High School who attended events where food from Andre's Banquets and Catering was served.
World
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Former Israeli hostages mark 1 year since war's only release deal
The only truce in the ongoing Israel-Hamas war on Nov. 24, 2023 – fewer than two months after fighting began – led to the release of 80 Israelis held by militants in Gaza.
Gunmen in southeast Mexico open fire in a bar killing 6 and injuring 5
The shooting took place in the coastal province of Tabasco, which is struggling with a recent increase in violence.
Israeli strike kills Lebanese soldier as Hezbollah fires 185 rockets at Israel
Israeli strikes have killed over 40 Lebanese troops since the start of the war between Israel and Hezbollah, even as Lebanon's military has largely kept to the sidelines.
Gazan chefs cook up hope and humanity for online audience
Ten-year-old Chef Renad (who's gained a following on Instagram) and Hamada Shaqoura (who relies on humanitarian aid and crude cooking arrangements) educate while preparing meals in war-torn Gaza.
U.S Air Force says drones spotted near 3 bases in England last week
The drones were spotted between Wednesday and Friday near RAF Lakenheath, RAF Mildenhall and RAF Feltwell.
Entertainment
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Chuck Woolery, host of "Love Connection" and "Scrabble," dies at 83
Chuck Woolery was inducted into the American TV Game Show Hall of Fame in 2007 and earned a daytime Emmy nomination in 1978.
What makes a martini a martini?
There are very few American inventions more American than the martini – a classic cocktail of gin and vermouth, garnished with lemon. But today, a martini's ingredients may be up for debate.
Mick Fleetwood plays to the future in Maui
Last year's horrific wildfires turned Lahaina into a disaster zone, and destroyed the Fleetwood Mac founder's club, Fleetwood's on Front Street. Today, Mick Fleetwood is determined to rebuild, saying, "There has to be music."
Mick Fleetwood plays to the future in Maui
As a young man, Fleetwood Mac founder Mick Fleetwood dreamed of a place – a club – where he could get his friends together. Twelve years ago, he made it happen in the west Maui city of Lahaina: Fleetwood's on Front Street. But last year's horrific wildfires turned Lahaina into a disaster zone, and destroyed his treasured club. Today, Fleetwood says he's determined to rebuild. Correspondent Tracy Smith reports.
"Sandwiches of History": Resurrecting sandwich recipes that time forgot
Every week on his blog, "Sandwiches of History," Barry Enderwick rescues sandwich recipes from the dustbin of history. He's now collected some of the unlikeliest (and even amazing) historical recipes in a cookbook.
Technology
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Technology
A new generation of shopping cart, with GPS and AI
At a Price Chopper outside Kansas City, shoppers are test driving the new Caper Cart, featuring digital screens, GPS, cameras equipped with artificial intelligence, and packaging scanners that spit out coupons. Correspondent Jonathan Vigliotti looks at the technology used to "reinvent the wheel" of the shopping cart.
Who has the best Black Friday tech prices?
Black Friday is almost here, but some of the hottest tech items are already on sale. CNET senior editor Lisa Eadicicco joins CBS News to discuss high-demand gifts and what retailers offer the best prices.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
AI grandma fights back against scammers
Daisy's mission is two-fold: To waste scammers' time so they can't speak to real people and to draw attention to fraud by warning consumers to be vigilant.
Australia could ban social media for kids
Australian legislators introduced a landmark bill Thursday to ban social media for children under 16. CBS News London's Leigh Kiniry reports on what this could mean for social media companies.
Science
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Science
Dishing up space food
At the Johnson Space Food Systems Laboratory in Houston, NASA scientists develop dishes – freeze-dried, heat-stabilized, or irradiated – to serve on the International Space Station. Correspondent David Pogue checks out what's on the menu in Earth orbit.
How are U.S. winters permanently changing?
This winter, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted above-average temperatures throughout the U.S. because of a "slowly developing" La Niña pattern. CBS News Sacramento meteorologist Tracy Humphrey reports on the changing winter conditions.
Emperor penguin found on Australian beach released at sea after 20 days of care
The only emperor penguin known to have swum from Antarctica to Australia was released at sea 20 days after he waddled ashore on a popular tourist beach.
Iceland volcano flares in region's 7th eruption in one year
A volcano erupted in southern Iceland, near the town of Grindavík and the Blue Lagoon spa, marking the region's seventh eruption in a year.
How collecting pine cones helps renew Oregon forests after wildfires
Conservationists are teaming up with the U.S. Forest Service and logging companies to clear scorched land and make room for new reforestation projects.
Crime
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Crime
Law enforcement raises warning over "pink cocaine"
Law enforcement is raising alarm bells over a drug called pink cocaine. It doesn't actually contain cocaine, but is instead a combination of other substances. Tom Hanson has more on the spread of the potentially deadly drug.
Connecticut couple charged in $1 million Lululemon theft operation
A couple from Connecticut is charged with allegedly orchestrating a retail theft operation that may have cost Lululemon as much as $1 million.
Fugitive Kaitlin Armstrong caught after answering ad for a yoga instructor
When cyclist Anna Moriah "Mo" Wilson was murdered in Texas, U.S. Marshals assigned to the case used a unique tactic to track down her suspected killer in Costa Rica and bring the fugitive to justice.
$20 million settlement reached in death of woman fatally shot by officer
Teresa Gomez, 45, was fatally shot in 2023 after a Las Cruces police officer on a bicycle approached her while she sat in a parked car with another person, authorities said.
Police chief kills himself as troops close in to arrest him in Mexico
The police chief killed himself with his own weapon as marines, National Guard and soldiers closed in to try to arrest him, prosecutors said.
Space
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Blue Origin launches 6 tourists to the edge of space
Marc and Sharon Hagle, both making their second space flight, were among the passengers for the NS-28 mission.
Blue Origin launches 9th space tourism flight
The ninth Blue Origin space tourism flight launched from West Texas Friday morning. CBS News space consultant Bill Harwood and space expert Scott Heidler offered analysis of the flight.
Trump, Musk attend SpaceX launch
President-elect Donald Trump attended SpaceX's sixth flight test of its Super Heavy-Starship on Tuesday with CEO Elon Musk. The burgeoning friendship between the two men played a key role in Trump's reelection, with Musk now set to run a government efficiency agency in the coming months. CBS News political reporter Jake Rosen and Politico aviation reporter Oriana Pawlyk join "America Decides" with more.
SpaceX launches Super Heavy-Starship, with Trump there to watch
President-elect Donald Trump was on hand with Elon Musk for the sixth test flight of SpaceX's huge Super Heavy-Starship rocket.
Far side of the moon once had erupting volcanoes, lunar soil shows
Researchers analyzed lunar soil brought back by China's Chang'e-6, the first spacecraft to return with a haul of rocks and dirt from the little-explored far side.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2024
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Serial killer Rodney Alcala's secret photos
See some of convicted serial killer Rodney Alcala's photographs that were discovered by detectives in a Seattle storage locker.
The troubled marriage of Ashley and Doug Benefield
The seesaw marriage between the former ballerina and her much older husband only lasted four years, until she shot him on Sept. 27, 2020.
Evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case
A look at the evidence in "The Dexter Killer" case; plus, newly revealed letters from the man police say wanted to be like fictional serial killer Dexter Morgan.
Summer music heats up 2024
Live performances are in full swing this summer. Scroll through our concert gallery, featuring pictures by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
11/24: The Takeout: Sen. Joe Manchin
Sen. Joe Manchin joins "The Takeout" to discuss his political career and the state of American politics in 2024. Manchin provides insight on his disagreements with Democrats during Biden's presidency, why he left the party and how it can move forward after falling short this past election.
60 Minutes returns to Notre Dame
Next Sunday, 60 Minutes returns to the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris, bringing viewers a unique first look at the rebirth of one of the world’s great treasures.
Texas pie shop sees huge lines for Thanksgiving
Houston's Flying Saucer Pie Company has a devoted following, with people camping out overnight and lines up to half a mile long to get dessert for Thanksgiving. Janet Shamlian takes a look at what makes this shop so special.
Menendez brothers due in court Monday
The Menendez brothers are scheduled to appear virtually in court on Monday for a hearing that will look into the legality of their conviction. The brothers, who were convicted of murdering their parents in 1996, are exploring several avenues to try to get out of prison. Elise Preston has the details.
Thanksgiving grocery prices down slightly
Shoppers buying Thanksgiving groceries are seeing some relief at the register for the first time in years. The price of staples like turkey, pumpkin and green beans are down compared to last year, although cranberries and wine have jumped. Kelly O'Grady reports.