CBX Daily 9/26/2025

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September 26, 2025

Today, Ulta is moving quickly through Latino express, but let’s start with how AI is driving start-up success…

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Startups Are Thriving & It's Thanks to AI

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The economy feels shaky, but founders aren’t flinching. In fact, most are more confident in their business's financial future than they were a year ago and the boldest optimism comes from those leaning hardest into AI. Mercury’s survey of 1,500 U.S. entrepreneurs running companies less than six years old found that 60% of businesses that had significantly adopted AI reported their confidence in financial prospects had “significantly improved” compared to 2024 where more than double the 28% of businesses that hadn’t adopted AI tools. This connection between innovation and sentiment underscores a broader shift: resilience today is powered by both mindset and technology.  

Ulta Beauty Taps Latino Market to Strengthen Growth

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Ulta Beauty (ULTA -0.22%) is proving that representation and revenue go hand-in-hand. The beauty retailer reported $2.7 billion in revenue for its most recent quarter, with comparable store sales up 6.7% year-over-year, driven in part by its robust multicultural marketing strategies and partnerships with diverse owned brands. From bilingual ad campaigns and inclusive product lines to workforce development and supplier equity, Ulta’s approach is helping it win over the fastest-growing beauty segment in the U.S., Latina consumers.  

Unpack Which Emotional Stage Of Crypto Trading You Are In Now

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When you punch your ticket for the rollercoaster ride known as the crypto market, it’s important to keep your emotions in check. What goes up must come down, and what goes low typically finds a higher low. This at least rings true for the stock market, and much of Bitcoin’s young trading life has followed suit. The crypto market can swing up or down by 10% to 20% in a day’s time.  

Why Buying an Old Home Might Cost You More in 2025

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In cases where old is considered gold, existing homes may fall short of hitting the gold standard. Investing in older homes has always held a certain charm for many homebuyers. These properties often boast unique architectural details and a sense of history that new constructions simply can't replicate. From intricate woodwork to spacious layouts, older homes can offer a distinctive character that appeals to those who appreciate craftsmanship and design from bygone eras. However, all these seem to be insufficient for potential homeowners as the median new home now sells less than a median existing home.  

Promotion Rates For White Collar Jobs Reach New Lows

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A lot of Gen Zers may think that it's now their world and other generations are simply living in it, but the job metrics would say differently. Since the great resignation of 2021/2022, there has been a decline in wage raises for white collar jobs, so much so it's becoming a source of anxiety for the average Gen Zers. Blue collar jobs, interestingly, are still getting a pay rise. I guess that means it's still a good day for our hospitality and health workers. But why is the white collar job market in a desperate stall?  

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AI to start-ups: “Pull Me In.” Labrinth expounds in our CBX Vibes!