CBX Daily 2/18/2026

Author

Nmesoma Okechukwu
February 18, 2026

In partnership with

Today, we’re spotlighting America’s new Black Wall Streets…But let’s start with why economic anxiety is surging

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Economic Anxiety Is Surging, How Black Entrepreneurs Can Stay Ahead

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2026 more or less started off on the wrong foot with consumer confidence plummeting to its lowest levels since 2014 this January. Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index for January, released Tuesday, declined 9.7 points to a reading of 84.5, the lowest since 2014. The sentiment about the path of the labor market is also one of pessimism. Per the recent Conference Board survey, 55% of respondents said it was difficult to land a job, the highest since the pandemic.

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Beyond Tulsa: Uncovering America’s New Black Wall Streets

In the early 1900s, the Greenwood District flourished with over 100 Black-owned businesses, from restaurants and grocery stores to hotels and hospitals. Greenwood’s prosperity came to a violent end in 1921 when a white mob destroyed the district in what is now known as the Tulsa Race Massacre. Though perhaps the most widely known, Tulsa’s story was not unique. Stacker used Census data and other sources to explore the untold history of lesser known Black Wall Streets across the U.S. and how present day Black business districts strive to rebuild wealth and opportunity in the current economic landscape.

AI Charged Romance Is Increasing Love Scams

Valentine’s day may be world’s love day but it has also become the ‘simp for you’ scammers who are ready to prey on victims looking for love. Dating websites and apps are rapidly evolving to meet growing consumer demand for new ways to make meaningful connections. Artificial intelligence has been at the forefront of reshaping the dating industry, but the tech has also opened the door to new threats which affect the population’s wellbeing. Over the past five years, people have reported losing a staggering $1.3 billion to romance scams and confidence fraud – with $652 million in losses in 2023 alone.

Gen Z Men: The Beauty Revolution No One Saw Coming

Forget everything you thought you knew about beauty rules. Gen Z men are stepping firmly into the spotlight, redefining self-care with an impressive 68% jump in skincare use. Grooming is not a ‘girl-thing’ anymore. This demographic is now driving new beauty standards. And while men are embracing their beauty side and challenging traditional beauty norms, the beauty industry is delaying in tapping into this market.

Health Care Is The New Luxury For Half Of America

The rising cost of health care in the U.S. is becoming a critical issue as it now renders health care unaffordable for at least 47% of Americans. Access to affordable health care is essential for individuals to maintain their well-being and address medical needs. However, this is not the case. For every four people, one is unable to cater for their medical costs. Worse still, the demographic that is more vulnerable and at a higher risk of chronic conditions are those aged 50 and above and whose affordability index has dropped eight points.

“Remedy” from Leven Kali has been setting the tone all week. Tap in with our CBX Vibes!