Trump Questions TikTok Ban

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In today edition we will talk about

• Coke Returns to Costco’s Food Courts: Pepsi Out

• Trump Questions TikTok Ban: Is It Really a Security Threat?

• E.l.f. Beauty Stands Strong on Diversity Amid Backlash

• Trump Warns Corporate Leaders Against "Woke" Policies

Coke Returns to Costco’s Food Courts: Pepsi Out

After a Decade, Coca-Cola Replaces Pepsi at Costco's Food Courts

Costco is bringing Coca-Cola back to its food court soda fountains this summer, ending Pepsi’s decade-long run.

CEO Ron Vachris confirmed the change during a shareholders meeting, responding to rumors about the switch. Costco initially swapped Coca-Cola for Pepsi in 2013 to keep its famous $1.50 hot dog-and-soda deal affordable. Despite losing money on the combo, the price remains unchanged since 1985.

The $1.50 hot dog combo is a Costco icon and key to its brand image, with 150 million sold last year. While Pepsi's partnership included machines, cups, and straws, Coke will now take over once again, bringing relief to Coca-Cola fans.

Costco’s hot dog combo price, described as untouchable by company leaders, remains "safe," even with inflation concerns.

Trump Questions TikTok Ban: Is It Really a Security Threat?

Experts Say Banning TikTok Might Not Fully Protect Americans' Data

Former President Donald Trump, who once tried to ban TikTok over security concerns, now doubts whether the app truly threatens national security. He recently downplayed fears, asking if China really needs to spy on kids watching videos.

TikTok’s Chinese ownership has sparked worries about data misuse and propaganda. US lawmakers fear the app could allow China to collect sensitive data or spread disinformation. But experts argue that even if TikTok is sold to a US company, China could still access Americans’ data through other means, like buying it from data brokers or using cyber-espionage.

Trump's comments come as debates continue over whether banning or selling TikTok would truly safeguard US users, with critics pointing out broader privacy issues across all platforms.

E.l.f. Beauty Stands Strong on Diversity Amid Backlash

While Many Companies Scale Back DEI Efforts, E.l.f. Embraces Inclusion

As companies like Amazon and Walmart cut back on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, e.l.f. Beauty is staying committed. Known for inclusive marketing campaigns like “So Many Dicks,” which highlighted gender imbalance in corporate boards, e.l.f. ties its success to diversity.

Around 75% of e.l.f.’s employees are women, and 40% are people of color. The brand also features diverse models, including transgender and non-binary individuals, in its ads. CEO Tarang Amin says diverse perspectives have driven innovation, helping e.l.f. grow sales for 23 consecutive quarters and boost its stock by 700% in five years.

Despite backlash against DEI from some groups, e.l.f.'s loyal, younger customer base supports these efforts. Amin believes that companies abandoning DEI risk losing talent and consumer trust, while diversity remains a key factor for success.

Trump Warns Corporate Leaders Against "Woke" Policies

Public Rebuke of Bank of America CEO Signals Shift in Business Politics

At the World Economic Forum, Donald Trump publicly criticized Bank of America CEO Brian Moynihan, accusing banks of discriminating against conservatives. Although Bank of America denies any political bias, Trump’s comments served as a warning to corporate leaders to align with his base or face scrutiny.

This reflects a shift in Republican politics, where government intervention in corporate affairs is becoming common, especially against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. While some companies have scaled back DEI efforts under pressure, others like Costco and JPMorgan are standing firm.

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