You can stay in touch with us on Facebook and Twitter, or you can join the discussion in our Facebook Group. You can also subscribe to get all news/deals via one daily email, or choose instant notifications for time sensitive deals.
News Roundup
This is a roundup of news and other interesting pieces that I’ve come across over the last few days.
America’s Biggest Bank Is Everywhere—and It Isn’t Done Growing
The bank has opened branches in 25 new states, plus Washington, D.C., since 2018. Its nearly 4,800 locations are in every state in the Lower 48, an achievement it alone has unlocked. It added another 93 earlier this month when it bought First Republic Bank in a government-backed fire sale. It now has more than 13% of the nation’s deposits and 21% of all credit-card spending, a bigger share in each than any other bank. Its investment bankers bring in more revenue than all of their Wall Street rivals, including Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. Check this link if you hit paywall.
Hyundai and Kia agree to $200 million settlement over TikTok car theft challenge
Hyundai and Kia agreed to a $200 million settlement stemming from a class-action lawsuit related to a rash of car thefts inspired by a viral social media challenge on TikTok. The so-called “Kia Challenge” on the social media platform has led to hundreds of car thefts nationwide, including at least 14 reported crashes and eight fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Thieves known as “the Kia Boyz” would post instructional videos on YouTube and TikTok about how to bypass the vehicles’ security system using tools as simple as a USB cable.
AC Hotels by Marriott Announces the Opening of its First Hotel in Malta
AC Hotel by Marriott St. Julian’s offers 106 contemporary guestrooms and suites, all of which feature plush bedding, Nespresso coffee machines and an ergonomic workspace to provide guests with ultimate comfort and convenience.
In keeping with Malta’s exemplary food scene, renowned as a culinary and cultural melting pot, AC Hotel by Marriott St. Julian’s features the AC Lounge® on the rooftop terrace: the perfect place to unwind with a signature cocktail and European tapas along with stunning views of St Julian’s skyline. The creative cocktail menu features timeless classics with a modern twist, including the signature AC Gin Tonic. Other facilities include a heated outdoor rooftop pool, an indoor pool, a meeting space with seating for up to 40 people, and a gym featuring state-of-the-art Matrix equipment.
United 777-300ER Polaris Business Class Review
Here’s what Ian says about the experience: “Overall, I enjoyed my first flight in Polaris flight, but a couple things left a stain on the experience. United could do better in terms of their catering–they fall short of most other business class experiences I’ve had. The seat cleanliness needs to be addressed as well. On the upside, the Polaris hard product is comfortable. I prefer the seat design to reverse herringbone products. The bedding offered is excellent–it’s nice to actually count on some sleep.” Check out the article for more photos and details.
Thompson Hotels Brand to Launch in Palm Springs, California
Hyatt Hotels Corporation announced today plans for the 168-room Thompson Palm Springs, which will join the award-winning luxury lifestyle Thompson Hotels portfolio and mark the second Thompson Hotels property in California. Thompson Palm Springs is expected to open in late 2023 and will offer panoramic views of the San Jacinto Mountains and the city of Palm Springs. The development signals Hyatt’s commitment to growing its luxury lifestyle portfolio in key growth markets that matter to guests and World of Hyatt members.
Guru’s Wrap-up
Let me know if you enjoyed these articles and comment with any opinions you might have. You can also share any other interesting articles about deals, travel, credit cards and more.