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Taylor Swift’s $700K Vintage Diamond Ring Steals the Spotlight

                                                        Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift; Swift's engagement ring.     Taylor Swift’s engagement to NFL star Travis Kelce has set the internet ablaze — and not just because of the romance. The pop icon’s dazzling engagement ring, revealed in a series of Instagram photos, is estimated by diamond experts to be worth around $700,000 . Designed by Kindred Lubeck of Artifex Fine Jewellery, the ring features a 12-carat old mine or cushion-cut diamond set in warm yellow gold, with intricate filigree detailing. The vintage-inspired design reflects Swift’s well-known love for timeless, romantic aesthetics, reminiscent of her Folklore and Evermore eras. Fans have been quick to spot possible hidden meanings, including a tiny “T” detail on the band — a subtle nod to the couple...

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Starbucks Announces Layoffs Amid Operational Streamlining

 

Starbucks has announced plans to lay off 1,100 corporate employees globally as part of a broader effort to streamline operations under the leadership of new Chairman and CEO Brian Niccol. In a letter to employees released on Monday, Niccol outlined the company's intent to operate more efficiently, increase accountability, reduce complexity, and drive better integration.

The layoffs will affect corporate support employees, but baristas and other store-level staff will not be impacted. Additionally, several hundred open and unfilled positions will be eliminated. Niccol emphasized the need for all work to be overseen by decision-makers to reduce the complexity of Starbucks' structure and eliminate silos that hinder communication.

Niccol, who was hired last fall to address sluggish sales, has also implemented changes to improve service times, particularly during the morning rush, and re-establish Starbucks locations as community gathering places. The company is also cutting items from its menu and experimenting with ordering algorithms to better manage its mix of mobile, drive-thru, and in-store orders.

Despite a 2% decline in global same-store sales during its 2024 fiscal year, Starbucks has seen positive results from recent changes, including the decision to stop charging extra for non-dairy milk and streamlining the menu. These efforts have boosted store traffic and improved service, leading to a modest increase in Starbucks' shares.



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