Google acquires cybersecurity firm Wiz for $32 billion
Alphabet, Google’s parent company, has announced its largest acquisition yet, purchasing cybersecurity firm Wiz for $32 billion. This move aims to strengthen Google Cloud’s security capabilities and compete with Microsoft and Amazon in the cloud services market. Wiz, an Israeli-founded startup specialising in cloud security, will retain its brand and operate independently while continuing to support all major cloud platforms.
Analysts predict the deal will help Google expand its 12% cloud market share. With cybersecurity in high demand, this acquisition reinforces Google’s strategy to diversify beyond search advertising and enhance its cloud and AI offerings.
Wealthiest Americans drive record consumer spending
A new Moody’s Analytics report reveals that the top 10% of U.S. earners now account for a record 49.7% of consumer spending, up from 36% three decades ago. Chief economist Mark Zandi attributes this to the “wealth effect,” where rising asset values fuel spending. Wealthier households increased their spending by 12% from 2023 to 2024, while lower- and middle-income spending declined.
Zandi estimates that this trend contributed one-fourth of GDP growth last year. However, he warns that spending patterns may shift with market fluctuations, highlighting the economy’s growing reliance on affluent consumers.
Lowe’s tops AI-powered retail associate rankings
Lowe’s ranked #1 in Chatmeter’s 2025 Retail Associates Reputation Ranking, which analysed over one million customer reviews of major U.S. retailers. The report found that Lowe’s, Food Lion, and The Home Depot provided the best customer experiences, though inconsistencies in service remain industry-wide.
Key findings include improved staffing, shorter wait times, fewer product shortages, and better sentiment around anti-theft measures. However, mentions of discrimination rose 16.5%, and returns remained a pain point. Chatmeter’s AI-driven analysis highlights the crucial role of store associates in shaping brand reputation and the need for ongoing service improvements.