Current Events in December 2025

• A new option for hard-to-control asthma: The FDA has approved Exdensur (depemokimab-ulaa) as an add-on maintenance treatment for people with severe asthma.

• Designed to reduce flare-ups: The injectable biologic targets inflammation linked to asthma attacks and is meant to be used alongside standard inhaled therapies.

• Not a rescue medicine: Exdensur is for long-term control, not for sudden asthma symptoms.

For consumers living with severe asthma that remains difficult to control, a newly approved medication may offer another layer of protection. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved Exdensur (depemokimab-ulaa) as an add-on maintenance treatment for adults with severe asthma.

Severe asthma affects a smaller but significant group of patients whose symptoms persist despite regular use of inhaled corticosteroids and other long-acting asthma medicines. These patients often experience frequent flare-ups that can lead to emergency room visits, hospitalizations, or missed work and school.

Exdensur belongs to a class of drugs known as biologics, which are made from living cells and are designed to target specific parts of the immune system. The medication works by blocking interleukin-5 (IL-5), a protein involved in the production and survival of eosinophils, white blood cells that contribute to airway inflammation in certain types of asthma.

By reducing this inflammation, Exdensur aims to lower the risk of asthma attacks over time.

What patients should know

Exdensur is not a replacement for daily inhalers and is not intended for sudden breathing emergencies. Instead, it is used regularly as an add-on therapy to help keep asthma under better control.

Key points for patients include:

• Administration: Exdensur is given by injection, typically at scheduled intervals determined by a healthcare provider.

• Who it’s for: It is intended for people with severe asthma whose disease is not well controlled with standard treatments.

• Expected benefits: Clinical studies showed fewer asthma exacerbations in patients receiving the drug in addition to their usual medications.

Possible side effects

As with other biologic asthma treatments, side effects may include injection-site reactions, headache, or fatigue. Because Exdensur affects the immune system, patients should discuss their full medical history with their doctor to understand potential risks and benefits.

Patients with severe asthma should not change or stop medications on their own. If asthma symptoms remain poorly controlled despite following a treatment plan, a healthcare provider can determine whether a biologic therapy like Exdensur is appropriate.

The approval of Exdensur adds to a growing list of targeted asthma treatments, giving patients and doctors more options to personalize care and reduce the burden of this chronic disease.

• New York Attorney General Letitia James has joined a multistate lawsuit accusing Uber of trapping consumers in hard-to-cancel subscriptions.

• The suit targets Uber One, a paid service that promises savings on rides and food delivery but allegedly enrolls users without clear consent.

• State and federal officials are seeking refunds for consumers and a permanent ban on the company’s alleged deceptive practices.

A bipartisan coalition of 20 attorneys general in a lawsuit against Uber Technologies, LLC and Uber USA, LLC, accusing the company of misleading consumers and trapping them in recurring subscriptions to its Uber One service.

The lawsuit, originally filed by the Federal Trade Commission, alleges that Uber violated state and federal consumer protection laws by deceptively marketing Uber One and making it unreasonably difficult for users to cancel once enrolled.

According to the lawsuit, Uber aggressively promotes Uber One through pop-ups and in-app notifications in the Uber and Uber Eats apps, encouraging users to sign up for promised savings on rides and food delivery. The attorneys general allege that many consumers were enrolled without realizing they had signed up for a paid subscription.

Once enrolled, users were automatically charged $9.99 per month — or $96 annually — and faced what the lawsuit describes as a confusing and burdensome process to cancel, requiring them to navigate multiple menus and screens.

“Unwanted subscriptions that are seemingly impossible to cancel are driving up costs for everyday New Yorkers,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James. “Companies should not be able to profit by tricking consumers into recurring charges that can require hours of difficult work to stop.”

Claims about savings challenged

The lawsuit also challenges Uber’s marketing claims about the financial benefits of Uber One. State officials allege that Uber falsely promised consumers they would “save $25 every month” with the subscription, without adequately disclosing that the claimed savings did not account for the monthly subscription fee.

Attorneys general argue that these representations misled consumers about the true cost and value of the service, particularly when combined with the automatic, recurring charges.

What the states are seeking

James and the coalition are asking the court to order restitution for consumers who were charged for unwanted Uber One subscriptions. The lawsuit also seeks a permanent injunction to stop Uber from engaging in what the states describe as deceptive subscription and cancellation practices.

If successful, the case could force changes to how Uber markets and manages paid subscriptions nationwide, particularly those promoted through mobile apps with recurring billing.

• Total nonfarm payroll employment changed little in November (+64,000) and has shown little net change since April, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported.

• The unemployment rate held steady at 4.6 percent, little changed from September but higher than a year ago.

• Job growth was concentrated in health care and construction, while federal government employment continued to shrink.

Since the government shutdown, economists have been in the dark about a number of economic data points – especially the labor market. But with the release of the delayed November employment report, things are getting a little clearer.

Jobs increased last month, but not by much. Economists say the U.S. job market showed signs of stabilization rather than expansion in November, as overall employment growth remained modest and uneven across industries. 

Total nonfarm payrolls increased by just 64,000 jobs, continuing a pattern of little net job growth that has persisted since April, according to the latest Employment Situation report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The unemployment rate stood at 4.6 percent in November, essentially unchanged from September but up from 4.2 percent a year earlier. About 7.8 million people were unemployed, reflecting a labor market that remains relatively tight but has cooled compared with last year.

Where jobs are growing

Health care once again led job gains, adding 46,000 positions in November. Growth was broad-based, with increases in ambulatory health care services, hospitals, and nursing and residential care facilities. The sector’s performance was in line with its average monthly growth over the past year, underscoring continued demand driven by an aging population and ongoing staffing needs.

Construction employment also rose, gaining 28,000 jobs. Most of the increase came from nonresidential specialty trade contractors, suggesting steady activity in commercial and infrastructure-related projects. Social assistance continued its upward trend as well, adding 18,000 jobs, largely in individual and family services.

Where jobs are shrinking

In contrast, transportation and warehousing shed 18,000 jobs in November, driven entirely by losses in couriers and messengers. The sector has now lost 78,000 jobs since peaking in February, reflecting softer demand following the pandemic-era surge in e-commerce and delivery services.

Federal government employment continued to decline, falling by 6,000 jobs in November after a sharp loss of 162,000 in October. Since January, federal payrolls are down by 271,000, largely due to deferred resignations. While a recent federal government shutdown delayed the release of employment data, furloughed workers were counted as employed if they ultimately received pay for the survey period.

Most other major industries – including manufacturing, retail, professional and business services, leisure and hospitality, and financial activities – saw little change over the month.

Wages, hours and workforce signals

Wage growth remained moderate. Average hourly earnings for private-sector workers edged up by 0.1 percent in November to $36.86 and were 3.5% higher than a year earlier. The average workweek increased slightly to 34.3 hours, suggesting stable labor demand but limited pressure for employers to expand hours significantly.

At the same time, several household survey indicators pointed to underlying softness. The number of people working part time for economic reasons jumped to 5.5 million, and short-term unemployment rose, even as long-term unemployment remained relatively stable. Labor force participation and the employment-population ratio were essentially unchanged.

Taken together, the November report paints a picture of a labor market in transition, no longer surging, but not sharply deteriorating. Job growth is increasingly concentrated in health-related and service-oriented sectors, while government employment and some goods-moving industries continue to contract. As policymakers and businesses look ahead, the data suggest an economy adjusting to slower growth rather than entering a clear downturn.

• National average gasoline price expected to be $2.79 per gallon on Christmas Day

• Drivers projected to save about $521 million nationwide during Christmas week compared with last year

• Prices remain below last Christmas and among the lowest holiday levels since 2020

While the cost of celebrating Christmas remains high, holiday travelers may find an unexpected bit of cheer at the gas pump this Christmas, with prices continuing a multi-year trend of seasonal relief. GasBuddy forecasts the national average price of gasoline will land near $2.79 per gallon on Christmas Day, down from about $3.00 a year ago.

That decline adds up. GasBuddy estimates motorists will collectively save roughly $521 million during the Christmas travel week compared with last year, offering some financial breathing room as millions of Americans hit the road to visit family and friends.

The favorable outlook reflects a combination of supply and demand dynamics that have eased pressure on prices heading into the holidays. Refinery maintenance that typically tightens supply earlier in the fall has largely wrapped up, allowing gasoline inventories to rebuild. At the same time, OPEC’s increased oil production through much of 2025 has pushed crude oil prices to multi-year lows in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

Less demand helps

Seasonal demand also plays a role. While holiday travel remains heavy, winter gasoline consumption is significantly lower than during the summer driving season, helping keep prices in check. That natural demand slowdown has allowed prices to settle near what are often the lowest levels of the year.

“Christmas is often when gas prices settle near the lowest levels of the year, and 2025 is no exception,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. 

“Refinery maintenance has wrapped up, supplies are rising, and winter demand is much lower than in summer — all of which help keep a lid on prices. Provided there are no surprises, holiday travelers should see pump prices that come in a bit lower than last Christmas.”

De Haan cautioned that unexpected refinery disruptions or international tensions could still introduce short-term volatility, but said the broader backdrop is far more favorable than in the years immediately following the pandemic, when reopening demand sent prices sharply higher. 

He also noted early indicators are encouraging as GasBuddy prepares to release its 2026 Fuel Outlook in January, with signs that lower prices could extend into next year.

Holiday tips

For drivers heading out this holiday season, GasBuddy recommends a few simple strategies to maximize savings:

• Compare prices before filling up, as nearby stations can differ by 10 to 25 cents per gallon, and even more on longer trips.

• Plan around state lines, where tax differences can create price swings of 20 to more than 80 cents per gallon.

• Use loyalty programs and fuel-saving apps to stack discounts.

• Drive efficiently, maintaining steady speeds and using cruise control, which can boost fuel economy by up to 15% on long drives.

Taken together, this year’s Christmas gas price outlook offers a modest but meaningful gift for holiday travelers — one that could make the journey home a little easier on the wallet.

• Federal regulators and 21 states accuse Uber of charging consumers for its Uber One subscription without consent and failing to deliver promised savings.

• The amended lawsuit claims Uber made cancellations deliberately difficult, despite advertising that users could “cancel anytime.”

• The case seeks civil penalties and will be decided in federal court in California.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), joined by 21 states and the District of Columbia, has filed an amended lawsuit against Uber, alleging the company improperly charged consumers for its Uber One subscription, failed to provide promised savings, and made it unreasonably hard for users to cancel.

The FTC first sued Uber in April, accusing the ride-hailing and delivery giant of deceptive billing and cancellation practices tied to Uber One, its paid subscription program. The newly filed amended complaint expands the case by adding state-level claims and seeking civil penalties for alleged violations of federal and state consumer protection laws, including the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act.

Uber denies the allegations that it signs up or charges consumers without their consent. The company asserts that customers agree to the subscription and are not billed unless they opt in. It also says the cancellation procedure is clear and simple.

What is Uber One?

Uber One is marketed as a monthly or annual subscription that promises perks such as $0 delivery fees and up to $25 in monthly savings on Uber Eats and Uber rides. According to the complaint, many consumers say those promises weren’t met.

Some subscribers report being charged delivery fees despite the $0 delivery fee guarantee, while others say they never received the advertised monthly savings. The lawsuit alleges that Uber’s marketing gave consumers a misleading impression of the benefits they would receive.

One of the most serious allegations is that Uber enrolled some consumers in Uber One without their knowledge or consent. According to the complaint, users who signed up for free trials were often automatically charged before the trial ended. Others say they were billed for Uber One even though they never knowingly signed up at all.

Regulators argue that these practices violate laws designed to ensure consumers clearly agree to recurring charges before they are billed.

‘Cancel anytime’

Uber advertises that consumers can “cancel anytime,” but the complaint claims the reality is far different. According to regulators, users trying to cancel their subscriptions may be forced to navigate up to 23 different screens and complete as many as 32 separate actions before successfully canceling.

The FTC and states allege that this complex process discourages consumers from canceling and keeps them paying for a service they no longer want.

In addition to the District of Columbia, the states joining the FTC in the amended complaint are:

Alabama, Arizona, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

• Prep in 5 minutes: list sizes + backups, snap every receipt, commit to in-store returns

• Use rewards like coupons: search email/apps, redeem reward points now, try to split transactions to reuse perks

• Keep gifts low-risk: check inventory + pickup, buy sets/accessories, trade in old games for credit

For many shoppers, those last-minute Christmas shopping trips often go sideways for two reasons. First, you end up paying the “panic tax” in the form of shipping upgrades and “might as well” impulse buys. Second, you inevitably end up with a bunch of stuff you‘ll have to return in January.

So, here’s my frugal playbook to help you finish your shopping this year and hopefully keep your sanity and more of your hard-earned money.

Before you walk-in, try this 5-minute setup

Make a list with the sizes and backup options you’re shopping for. If you don’t know a shoe size, don’t buy shoes. Instead, buy the “gift card + small add-on” combo gift instead.

Start a “Receipts” album on your phone. Try to photograph every receipt the second you get it as it’ll save you a bunch of headaches later.

Decide your return strategy now: in-store returns = usually free. Mail-in returns can come with fees at some retailers (more on that below).

1. Macy’s: use the “buy now, adjust later” trick

The hack: Typically, if you buy something and it drops in price within 10 days, Macy’s will do a price adjustment. But for the holidays, they’re price matching anything bought on or after November 30th all the way up until December 25th.

How to use this policy last-minute:

• Buy the “safe” gifts now. Think items like coats, cookware, and small appliances.
• Then set a reminder on your phone to check the price later this week or next.
• If the price drops, and it often will, request the price adjustment (keep screenshots).

Frugal return move: If you think you might return an item, plan to return the product in-store. Macy’s in-store returns are free, but non–Star Rewards members will have to pay a whopping $9.99 which will be deducted from your refund.

2. Old Navy: treat Super Cash like a coupon

The hack: If you have Old Navy Super Cash sitting around, the worst thing you can do is forget to redeem it completely. Old Navy actually allows Rewards members to convert unused Cash Coupons to points within 30 days after the last day to redeem.

Each Cash Coupon dollar amount converts to 1 program point. Many loyal Old Navy shoppers aren’t aware that this conversion is possible, so make sure you take advantage and don’t let your Cash Coupons expire.

How to use it last-minute:

• Before you head to the mall, be sure to search your email for “Super Cash.”
• If you find that your redemption window is not active, pivot to basics that are still worth buying (pajamas, kids’ layers, giftable fleece).
• If you’re still within the redemption window, be sure to convert your cash to points if you’re a Rewards member, instead of losing it completely.

Smart gifts at Old Navy (fast, low-risk):

• Family pajamas (easy win)
• Gloves/beanies, cozy socks bundles
• Kids basics + a “pick your favorite color later” note for picky kids

3. American Eagle/Aerie: use the app as your free “inventory detective”

The hack: The AE app tells you whether or not an item is in-stock at a store near you. That’s a very handy feature when shopping for last-minute gifts when sizes on many popular items get wiped clean quickly.

How to use it last-minute:

• First, search for the item in the app, then check which location has the size you’re looking for.
• If you’re truly racing the clock, be sure to use in-store pickup. AE says items marked as “Free Pickup Today” can be ready in about 2 hours.

Gift ideas that don’t backfire:

• Aerie: loungewear, bralettes (if you know their vibe), cozy sets
• AE: hoodies, flannels, denim (only if you know size)

4. Victoria’s Secret / PINK: split transactions to use more rewards

The hack: Victoria’s Secret allows you to apply up to 3 Member Rewards per purchase. So, if you have more than that, here’s the trick so you don’t waste any of them.

How to use it last-minute:

• If you have 5 rewards, be sure to do two separate transactions (3 rewards on one, 2 on the other).
• VS also allows up to 2 compatible offer codes per order (keep in mind that rewards apply separately when you’re logged in).

Low-risk gift moves here:

• Fragrance mists + lotion set (easy to exchange)
• Robe/slippers
• PINK lounge sets (these are size-friendly)

5. Sephora: turn points into instant savings

The hack: If you’re a Sephora Beauty Insider member you get $10 off for every 500 points earned. And you can only use the $10 discount once per transaction, on a minimum $10 purchase.

It’s actually one of the better free loyalty programs around, but many members forget to redeem their $10. This serves as your reminder to use it on any last-minute gifts this year.

How to use it last-minute:

• If you’re at/over 500 points and you’re buying gifts anyway, redeem the $10.
• Keep in mind that you can only use one $10 reward per transaction. So if you’ve got 1,000+ points and you’re buying multiple gifts anyway, splitting into two transactions lets you redeem it twice (500 points each time).

Low-risk Sephora gifts:

• Mini sets (fragrance, skincare, hair)
• “Best of” samplers
• A gift card + a travel-size add-on (looks thoughtful, avoids shade-matching disasters)

6. Bath & Body Works: join rewards before you pay

The hack: Bath & Body Works’ loyalty program is pretty darn solid and you should consider joining it before doing any last-minute shopping. Specifically, you’ll earn 10 points for every $1 spent and 1,000 points will get you a completely free product up to $16.50 in value.

How to use it last-minute:

• If you’re buying multiple gifts, put them on one account so you hit the reward faster.
• If you’re close to the threshold, add one practical item (like hand soap) to cross it and earn the freebie.

Fast gift ideas here:

• Hand soap bundles (teacher gifts)
• Candle + wallflower set
• Men’s body care sets (easy)

7. H&M: grab the welcome offer, then “use points like a coupon”

The hack: H&M’s membership page lists a welcome offer for 10% off your next purchase. Plus, you’ll earn points on every purchase. Specifically, $1 equals 1 point and 200 points = a $5 reward.

How to use it last-minute:

• If you’re not a member, sign up and get the 10% off welcome deal.
• Put all your H&M gifts in one transaction so your points will stack faster.

Smart H&M gifts:

• Accessories (scarves, beanies, gloves)
• Basics (tees, socks) + a small “fun” item (holiday pajamas)

8. Nordstrom Rack: returns are easy in-store, not-so-free by mail

The hack: Nordstrom Rack says store purchases can be returned for a full refund within 30 days, and you can return to any Nordstrom or Nordstrom Rack store for free.

But it also states for returns by mail, a $9.95 returns shipping charge is deducted from your refund for every pre-paid label used.

How to use it last-minute:

• Buy “risky” gifts only if you’re willing to do in-store returns.
• Photograph receipts immediately and keep the tags attached.

Best Rack gifts:

• Designer accessories (wallets, scarves)
• Beauty sets at a discount
• Athleisure basics

9. GameStop: trade-in credit can fund last-minute gifts

The hack: If you’ve got old games/controllers/consoles, consider trading them in for “free” money that you can use on your last-minute gifts this year.

GameStop’s trade-in page notes that you’ll get the highest trade value when products are in “good” condition and have all necessary components. They'll determine the exact value of your trade when you visit a GameStop location.

How to use it last-minute:

• Bring chargers, cables, cases, anything that came with it.
• Use your credit for stocking stuffers like digital currency cards, accessories, headsets, etc. These gift ideas are much easier than guessing someone’s exact wish-list game.

• A new survey found that 58% of adults impacted by a serious injury have delayed or skipped medical care because the cost felt out of reach.

• Many families are cutting back on essentials like groceries, falling behind on rent or mortgage payments, and postponing long-term goals just to keep up with medical bills.

• Financial assistance programs, payment plans, and billing reviews can help ease the burden, and experts say skipping care isn’t a personal failure but a systemic problem.

For many Americans, the decision to see a doctor isn’t just about health anymore — it’s about money. 

With inflation squeezing household budgets and job stability still shaky for many, more people are asking themselves a difficult question: Is medical care really worth the cost?

According to a new study from Leslie Law Firm, that question is leading a majority of Americans to take a risky step — skipping medical care altogether. The survey, which polled 1,000 U.S. adults whose households were impacted by a serious injury, found that 58% have delayed or avoided care because it felt financially out of reach. And for families already dealing with lost income, mounting bills, or long-term recovery, those choices can quickly snowball into lasting financial strain.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Suzanne Leslie, owner of Leslie Law Firm, to learn how injury-related medical debt is forcing families to cut back on essentials, turn to unconventional sources for health advice, and make tradeoffs that can affect both their finances and their well-being for years to come.

Financial barriers

According to Leslie, cost remains the top barrier to consumers seeking out medical care across the country. 

“The biggest barrier is the sheer cost of accessing care, even if you’re insured,” she explained. “When 58% are skipping treatment because of financial concerns, it’s about a lot more than just medical bills. 

“There’s a lot to unpack: lost wages, high deductibles, and the fear that one injury could be the catalyst to wreck your entire budget for months to come.” 

Financial instability 

When medical bills start piling up, it can be common for those financial concerns to start bleeding into other areas of consumers’ lives. 

“Medical debt often forces people into impossible trade-offs, and the ripple effects are severe,” Leslie said. 

“In our findings, 57% cut back on groceries, 25% fell behind on rent or mortgage payments, and 37% reduced their retirement savings. These setbacks don’t just strain the short term — they push long-term financial goals further out of reach and leave households more exposed to future emergencies.” 

However, there is hope for consumers. Leslie explained that some hospitals and medical providers offer emergency financial assistance or short-term medical coverage for those facing hardship after an accident or injury. 

“These programs are often overlooked simply because people don’t know to ask, but checking for available aid can help prevent medical bills from derailing the rest of their financial lives,” she said. 

Double check your medical bills

An important piece of advice for those struggling with medical debt: double check all of your medical bills. Leslie explained that errors on your bills are more common than most people realize, unfortunately. 

“Then, talk to the provider about setting up a payment plan or applying for financial aid,” she said. “When more than half of those in debt are grabbing a credit card(s) to cover their expenses, it’s rough. So if you’re looking into balance transfers or nonprofit credit counseling, it could help reduce interest and make payments more manageable over time.” 

Not a personal failure

If you’re in the situation of choosing between essential medical treatment and basic needs like groceries, Leslie hopes that consumers should know that they’re not alone. This situation is far more common than most people even realize. 

“Our research shows this is a widespread issue, and definitely not a personal failure,” Leslie said. “I’d suggest looking into whether there are community health clinics or nonprofit providers in your area that offer sliding scale pricing. 

“It’s also important to be brave and not be scared or too proud to ask for a helping hand. Many people avoid treatment because they assume they can’t afford it, but there are certainly payment options that offer more flexibility than you’d expect. You won’t know unless you ask.”