Tips for saving money this holiday season
Looking to spread holiday cheer without breaking the bank this year? If you haven't done your shopping yet, Bankrate senior economic analyst Mark Hamrick joined CBS News with advice on how to save.
Holiday Season
A psychologist explains why we love cheesy holiday movies so much
Holiday movies can be corny and predictable, but we keep coming back each season — and for a reason. A psychologist explains why we crave this type of media experience.
Motor City Kwanzaa Kinara returns to downtown Detroit
The Motor City Kwanzaa Kinara, which was labeled as the world's largest kinara of its kind, is returning to downtown Detroit this year.
Shipping companies announce crucial deadlines for holiday shipping
With Christmas falling on a Monday this year, Sunday deliveries will be limited, making it even more important to meet the deadlines.
California woman rents sustainable Christmas trees
A California farm rents out Christmas trees with an eye toward sustainability. Rather than cutting the trees down, they are delivered potted and returned to the farm after Christmas to be used again next year. John Blackstone has the story.
USPS goes into overdrive for holiday shipping
Americans could spend a record amount for holiday gifts this year. The U.S. Postal Service is ramping up operations to get everyone's gifts shipped on time. Elise Preston takes a look at the prepartations.
Remote work is changing the holiday travel season
The pandemic is helping create a longer holiday season, as remote workers with greater job flexibility are beginning trips sooner and ending them later. Elise Preston reports.
The landfill of fast-fashion
This holiday shopping season, environmental groups are urging consumers to avoid fast-fashion items, which are cheaper items that may only be wearable a few times before falling apart. In Chile, a massive pile of used clothing from around the world keeps growing, impacting local communities and the environment. CBS News' Manuel Bojorquez has more, including a first-hand look.
A Secret Santa motivated students to raise thousands for those in need
The story of a wealthy businessman who annually gives out hundreds of $100 bills to strangers motivated a group of Phoenix students to start their own Secret Santa club.
How shipping companies handle the holiday rush
About 82 million packages per day will be shipped in the U.S. during the peak of the holiday season. Kris Van Cleave examines how shipping companies handle that enormous scale.
Inside UPS Worldport: A superhub for shipping
With Christmas just a little more than a week away, the time to ship your gifts is now. CBS News' Kris Van Cleave got an inside look at UPS' Worldport in Louisville, Kentucky, a shipping megahub, where they're working around the clock to deliver your gifts on time.
These 4 couponing apps could help keep your wallet padded this holiday
Use these apps to earn cashback and rewards on holiday shopping purchases to avoid blowing your budget as gift prices rise.
Christmas carol event goes viral, gets canceled after 7,000 people show up
Every Wednesday in December for the last decade, Londoners have gathered near the Columbia Road Flower Market to sing Christmas carols together, sip on mulled wine and visit neighborhood shops.
Holiday spending forecasted to be merry and bright
After a period of high inflation, the U.S. has received some good economic news in time for the holidays. Gas prices and mortgage rates have dipped, and job growth remains steady. For many shoppers, it will translate to more holiday spending. Joy Benedict has more.
Unique Texas Christmas tree draws visitors
A Texas woman agreed to have her pecan tree decorated for Christmas to bring some joy to her terminally ill father. Now, more than 15 years later, the tree is a Christmas staple, drawing visitors from hundreds of miles away. CBS News' Janet Shamilian reports from Bartonville, Texas.
Here's how experts say you can thwart porch pirates
This holiday season could see a surge of stolen packages, as online ordering delivers a flood of gifts to people's front doors.
Biden lights National Christmas Tree
Two days after powerful wind gusts downed the National Christmas Tree outside the White House, the tree's lighting ceremony, attended by President Biden and first lady Jill Biden, went smoothly Thursday.
Cyber Monday could set records
Millions more people are expected to do some shopping between Black Friday and Cyber Monday this year than they did last year, despite rising costs. Some experts predict this year's Cyber Monday could set a spending record. Astrid Martinez reports.
Droughts could hurt the supply of Christmas trees
For some Christmas tree growers, Christmas will not be as cheerful or profitable a holiday. Droughts and an oppressive heat dome have damaged fir and spruce trees, especially in the southern U.S., and that impact could continue for years to come. Michael George reports.
Shoppers flock to malls over Thanksgiving weekend
While a large portion of holiday shopping now occurs online, malls across the U.S. were still busy with shoppers over Thanksgiving weekend, many of whom prefer the social experience of shopping in person. Elise Preston reports.
"Travel Tuesday" emerges as a prime day for holiday, winter travel deals
It is estimated that one in three Americans planning a holiday vacation.
4 Black Friday shopping tips to help stretch your holiday budget
Being wary of big deals, stacking coupons and timing your purchases can save you money as gift prices continue rising, one expert says.
New efforts to keep holiday shoppers safe
Carter Evans takes a look at what cities and businesses are doing to ease shopping safety concerns this holiday season.
Millions take to the roads for Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving rush is on, with an estimated 49 million Americans expected to drive more than 50 miles from their homes this holiday weekend. Kris Van Cleave has more.
Cybersecurity expert's online shopping tips
Many Americans will skip stores altogether and shop virtually this holiday season, according to a Gallup poll. Cybersecurity expert Brian Boetig joins CBS News to discuss how to protect your pocketbook while shopping online.
Live
Israel-Lebanon ceasefire begins
The leaders of Lebanon and Israel agreed to start a 10-day truce at 5 p.m. Eastern Time Thursday.
U.S. intelligence detects signs China is weighing giving Iran advance radar systems
The technology would enhance Iran's ability to detect and track incoming threats, like low-flying drones and cruise missiles.
Rep. Luna accuses Sen. Gallego of misconduct, which he denies
GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna told CBS News that Democratic Sen. Ruben Gallego was the previously unnamed senator whom she accused of "very disturbing" conduct. Gallego has denied all wrongdoing.
Controversial surveillance program extended by House but only until April 30
The House OK'd a short-term renewal until April 30 of FISA, the controversial surveillance program used by U.S. spy agencies, after Republicans revolted, refusing President Trump's push for a longer extension.
Exclusive
ICE head Todd Lyons planning to leave agency this spring
Todd Lyons, the acting head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is planning to leave the federal government later this spring.
Trump announces he's nominating Dr. Erica Schwartz for CDC director
CBS News reported Wednesday that Dr. Erica Schwartz was emerging as the president's top pick for the role.
Democrat Analilia Mejia projected to win N.J. House District 11 seat
CBS News projects that Democrat Analilia Mejia will win the special election in New Jersey's 11th Congressional District, a seat formerly held by Gov. Mikie Sherrill.
Artemis II crew on historic moon mission and what it means for Earth
"We are carrying back everything we learned, not only about where we went but ourselves," mission specialist Christina Koch told "CBS Evening News" anchor Tony Dokoupil.
Musician d4vd arrested on suspicion of murder in teen's death, LAPD says
Singer and songwriter d4vd has been arrested on suspicion of murder for the death of a 14-year-old whose dismembered body was found last year in a Tesla belonging to the singer.
U.S.
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AI "agents" can do your shopping. Should you let them?
Big retailers are embracing agentic commerce as a new way to shop. But you should think twice before handing over your credit card, tech experts say.
Artemis II crew on historic moon mission and what it means for Earth
"We are carrying back everything we learned, not only about where we went but ourselves," mission specialist Christina Koch told "CBS Evening News" anchor Tony Dokoupil.
Exclusive
ICE head Todd Lyons planning to leave agency this spring
Todd Lyons, the acting head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is planning to leave the federal government later this spring.
U.S. intelligence detects signs China is weighing giving Iran advance radar systems
The technology would enhance Iran's ability to detect and track incoming threats, like low-flying drones and cruise missiles.
RFK Jr. defends proposed 12% health budget cut, measles response in House testimony
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before the House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday, kicking off an expected sprint of seven budget hearings he'll attend over the next week.
MoneyWatch
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AI "agents" can do your shopping. Should you let them?
Big retailers are embracing agentic commerce as a new way to shop. But you should think twice before handing over your credit card, tech experts say.
This is the fastest-growing job for young workers, LinkedIn says
Hint: It involves AI, and a LinkedIn economist says employers are clamoring for people to fill these roles.
NPR gets $113 million in gifts, including $80 million from Connie Ballmer
NPR said the donation from Ballmer, the largest to the public radio network by a living donor, will help offset the loss of federal funding in 2025.
Trump admin set to launch tariff refund portal. Here's what to know.
A federal agency will open a portal on April 20 that lets businesses apply for a refund for Trump tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court.
S&P 500, Nasdaq hit record highs as investors shrug off Iran war fears
With another round of U.S.-Iran peace talks on the horizon, investors are optimistic that the war will wind down.
Politics
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Controversial surveillance program extended by House but only until April 30
The House OK'd a short-term renewal until April 30 of FISA, the controversial surveillance program used by U.S. spy agencies, after Republicans revolted, refusing President Trump's push for a longer extension.
Rep. Luna accuses Sen. Gallego of misconduct, which he denies
GOP Rep. Anna Paulina Luna told CBS News that Democratic Sen. Ruben Gallego was the previously unnamed senator whom she accused of "very disturbing" conduct. Gallego has denied all wrongdoing.
Exclusive
ICE head Todd Lyons planning to leave agency this spring
Todd Lyons, the acting head of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is planning to leave the federal government later this spring.
U.S. intelligence detects signs China is weighing giving Iran advance radar systems
The technology would enhance Iran's ability to detect and track incoming threats, like low-flying drones and cruise missiles.
RFK Jr. defends proposed 12% health budget cut, measles response in House testimony
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before the House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday, kicking off an expected sprint of seven budget hearings he'll attend over the next week.
HealthWatch
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HealthWatch
Dr. Erica Schwartz nominated for CDC director
President Trump nominated a new director for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on Thursday. Dr. Erica Schwartz is a former deputy surgeon general and retired Coast Guard rear admiral.
RFK Jr. defends proposed 12% health budget cut, measles response in House testimony
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before the House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday, kicking off an expected sprint of seven budget hearings he'll attend over the next week.
Trump announces he's nominating Dr. Erica Schwartz for CDC director
CBS News reported Wednesday that Dr. Erica Schwartz was emerging as the president's top pick for the role.
Exclusive
Trump to sign executive order on psychedelic drug used abroad to treat PTSD
Ibogaine is used in Mexico and the Caribbean to treat depression, anxiety, addiction and brain trauma.
As U.S. birth rate falls, Trump officials downplay contraception in Title X program
According to new CDC data, there were 3.6 million U.S. births in 2025, a 1% decline from 2024 and down 23% since 2007. The Trump administration has said it wants to reverse this trend.
World
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U.S. intelligence detects signs China is weighing giving Iran advance radar systems
The technology would enhance Iran's ability to detect and track incoming threats, like low-flying drones and cruise missiles.
Cuban leader says country will "be ready" for possible U.S. attack
Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel says that while Cuba does not want military aggression from the United States, his country is prepared to fight back.
Latest effort to rein in Trump on Iran falls short in House vote
Few Republicans have been willing to distance themselves from the president as the war's end remains uncertain.
Caine warns "we will use force" if Iran does not comply with blockade
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Thursday thatthe U.S. military can "make the transition" from the blockade to "major combat operations."
Setback for ex-U.S. Marine pilot accused of illegally training Chinese aviators
An Australian judge turned away an appeal by former U.S. Marine pilot Daniel Duggan to avoid extradition to the U.S. over allegations that he illegally trained Chinese military aviators more than a decade ago.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
AI version of Val Kilmer to star in new movie
Actor Val Kilmer died last April, and yet he is starring in a new movie, made after his death. Jo Ling Kent reports on how filmmakers resurrected his voice and image by using artificial intelligence.
Surprise twist in "Survivor 50" elimination
(Warning: Spoilers ahead!) "CBS Mornings" reveals a surprising twist in Wednesday's "Survivor 50" episode that led to a historic trial council ceremony.
More on Live Nation, Ticketmaster ruling
A jury ruled that Live Nation and Ticketmaster operated as an illegal monopoly. Variety's Jem Aswad joins CBS News with more.
Simon Helberg on "The Audacity"
Simon Helberg, known for his role as Howard in "The Big Bang Theory," talks about the new show "The Audacity." Helberg plays a developer who is creating an AI companion. He explains what drew him to the role and discusses the show's messages about humanity and technology.
What happened to influencer Clavicular?
Controversial influencer Clavicular said he is home from the hospital after his livestream abruptly ended on Tuesday night. CBS News' Matt Gutman reports and The Free Press' River Page has more.
Technology
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AI "agents" can do your shopping. Should you let them?
Big retailers are embracing agentic commerce as a new way to shop. But you should think twice before handing over your credit card, tech experts say.
AI version of Val Kilmer to star in new movie
Actor Val Kilmer died last April, and yet he is starring in a new movie, made after his death. Jo Ling Kent reports on how filmmakers resurrected his voice and image by using artificial intelligence.
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.
Key takeaways on Anthropic's new AI model
More concerns are emerging about Anthropic's new Mythos AI model. Matt Shumer, a former AI company founder and CEO, joins CBS News with more details.
How hackers are using AI to breach networks
U.S. officials are warning of Iranian cyberattacks on businesses and consumers. It comes as a new FBI report shows losses from cybercrime reached nearly $21 billion last year. Ash-har Quraishi shows how hackers are using artificial intelligence, and how you can protect yourself.
Science
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First major forecast for 2026 Atlantic hurricane season is released
Colorado State University has released its annual Atlantic hurricane forecast, predicting 13 named storms and six hurricanes may develop during the 2026 season.
Creature thought to be world's oldest octopus isn't an octopus after all
Scientists have found evidence that a 300-million-year-old sea creature previously thought to be the world's oldest octopus is actually a nautilus relative.
March smashed heat records in several ways, federal data shows
Last month was the hottest March on record for the Lower 48 states, by the most for any month ever, federal data shows. And a forecast El Niño could heat Earth even more.
Emperor penguins listed as endangered species
The emperor penguin has been declared an endangered species as climate change pushes the icon of Antarctica a step closer to extinction, the global authority on threatened wildlife says.
Stunning photos from Artemis II show Earth, moon, eclipse from space
The astronauts aboard Artemis II are the first humans to see some parts of the far side of the moon with the naked eye.
Crime
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Crime
Police: Politician killed wife, himself
Police in Virginia say the former Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax died after he shot and killed his wife and then turned the gun on himself. Nicole Sganga reports.
Divorce battle preceded Fairfax murder-suicide
Just after midnight on Thursday, police say former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax killed his wife and then himself in their home. Both of their teenage children were home at the time of the incident. CBS News homeland security correspondent Nicole Sganga reports.
Sharp increase in ICE detention deaths
New JAMA network research data shows a sharp increase in the number of people who died while in ICE detention last year. CBS News' Camilo Montoya-Galvez reports.
ICE agent accused of assault for pulling gun on 2 people on highway, charges say
Gregory Morgan Jr. of Temple Hills, Maryland, was charged Thursday morning with two counts of second-degree assault in the Feb. 5 incident.
Damon Jones expected to plead guilty in pair of alleged gambling cases
Damon Jones was among dozens of people, including alleged mafia figures and athletes, charged last year in connection with a pair of gambling schemes.
Space
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Artemis II crew on historic moon mission and what it means for Earth
"We are carrying back everything we learned, not only about where we went but ourselves," mission specialist Christina Koch told "CBS Evening News" anchor Tony Dokoupil.
Artemis II astronauts still awed by moonshot experience: "It was otherworldly"
The four Artemis II astronauts struggled to describe the view and overall experience of flying around the moon's far side and witnessing a solar eclipse in deep space.
"God of chaos" asteroid will pass close to Earth in 3 years, NASA says
People on the ground in the Eastern Hemisphere will be able to observe the asteroid with their own eyes, weather permitting, according to NASA.
Artemis II astronauts welcomed home to Houston after historic moonshot
The Artemis II astronauts flew back to the Johnson Space Center in Houston Saturday to cheers and applause from family members and hundreds of NASA workers.
9 highlights from Artemis II's epic journey around the moon
The Artemis II crew's nine-day moon mission set a record for the farthest any human has ever traveled from Earth. Here's a look at the key moments.
Latest Galleries
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Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
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Latest CBS News Videos
What to know about Strait of Hormuz, Iran war
Lindsey Reiser anchors a special CBS News 24/7 report on the blockade against Iranian ports, the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the current state of the war with Iran.
What Americans think about Iran, economy
CBS News' Lana Zak spoke with some Americans about their thoughts on the conflict with Iran and its impact on the economy.
Where Trump's goals in Iran stand now
President Trump has repeatedly claimed that the war with Iran is "almost over." He has also stated multiple times that the U.S. is close to accomplishing "all of its goals" in Iran. CBS News' Robert Costa reports and Michael Doran, director of the Center for Peace and Security in the Middle East at the Hudson Institute, have more.
Trump continues feud with Pope Leo
Earlier this week, President Trump turned his criticism toward an unlikely subject- Pope Leo. Michael O'Loughlin, the executive editor of the National Catholic Reporter, joins "The Daily Report."
4/16: The Takeout with Major Garrett
Ceasefire begins between Israel and Lebanon; U.S. blockade of Iranian ports continues for a fourth day.