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Business Wire
21-07-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Global Business Travel Spending to Reach $1.57 Trillion in 2025 Amid Trade Policy Uncertainty and Economic Risk, According to New GBTA Forecast
DENVER--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global business travel spending is projected to reach a new historical high of $1.57 trillion USD in 2025. This represents a moderate year-over-year growth rate of 6.6%, as global spending is expected to slow this year due to trade tensions, policy uncertainty and economic pressures. A rebound to 8.1% growth is projected for 2026, while long-term forecasts remain clouded by geopolitical and economic volatility. Despite near-term challenges, global spending is projected to surpass $2 trillion by 2029 ─ one year later than anticipated a year ago ─ driven by structural shifts in trade, investment, and corporate travel behavior. This is according to the latest edition of the GBTA Business Travel Index ('BTI') Outlook – Annual Global Report & Forecast, released today by the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) at the annual GBTA Convention in Denver. The GBTA BTI™ report is a comprehensive five-year forecast on business travel spending covering 72 countries and 44 industries and includes insights from 7,300+ global business travelers. In its 17 th edition and made possible in partnership with Visa, this latest forecast reflects a continued recovery in nominal terms but signals growing headwinds from global trade tensions and economic uncertainty. 'As we thoughtfully anticipate reaching a new high in business travel spending this year, the outlook is steady ─ but the road ahead is more complex,' said Suzanne Neufang, CEO of GBTA. 'Trade policy uncertainty, inflationary pressures, and shifting global supply chains are reshaping how and where companies travel. This latest forecast reflects the resiliency of business travel and our industry as well as the acknowledgment of the risks ahead.' According to the GBTA BTI, spending is projected to grow in 2027 by 6.4% and 6.3% in 2028—modestly higher than forecast a year ago. The pace and trajectory of this growth, however, will depend heavily on the resolution—or escalation—of global trade tensions. Global Trade Tensions Impact Growth Momentum The latest forecast reflects a moderation from double-digit gains of the past two years. Trade policy uncertainty has emerged as a key risk leading to downward revisions in business travel growth projections for 2025 (from 10.4% projected a year ago, to 6.6% now) and 2026 (from 9.2% projected a year ago, to 8.1% now). Spending figures for 2024 were also adjusted in this latest forecast – spending rose to $1.47 trillion, slightly below the previously projected $1.48 trillion. While this still marked a new high, real inflation-adjusted spending remains 14% below pre-pandemic levels, underscoring a slower recovery in travel volume. Impacts Diverge Among Regional Markets and Industry Sectors In the 2025 forecast, the top 15 markets for business travel spending represent $1.31 trillion. The two top markets – the U.S. ($395.4 billion) and China ($373.1 billion) – together represent 58% of that total. The U.S. is projected to reclaim the top spot this year followed by China (which led the list in 2024 and 2023), Germany, Japan, and the UK. India, South Korea, and Turkey are among the fastest growing among the top 15 markets, while Spain and the Netherlands are forecast to have little to no growth or a slight decrease. Business travel spending across industries will also continue to vary: Trade-sensitive sectors such as Manufacturing (which accounts for nearly one-third of global business spending) and Wholesale Trade face heightened risks if trade tensions further escalate. Service sectors like Arts & Entertainment and Professional Services have exceeded pre-pandemic benchmarks, with some growing travel spend by over 20%. Looking ahead, Mining and Information and Communication are each expected to post the strongest growth in business travel spend, while Agriculture faces the weakest outlook amid shrinking access to export markets. Global Business Traveler Sentiment Remains Strong A global survey of over 7,300 business travelers across 33 countries in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East reveals continued evolution and confidence in the value of traveling for work: Business travel is seen as valuable—86% rate their trips as worthwhile. Primary trip purposes cited vary by region, with training and conferences topping the list globally. Most travelers (74%) took between one and five trips in the past year, and over 80% say they are traveling for work as much or more than before 2019. Average trip spending rose to $1,128 USD (up from $834 in the 2024 survey). Expense systems are common (67% use them), and comfort with artificial intelligence booking tools is growing, especially in Asia Pacific (78%). Corporate card access rose to 69%, led by North America (73%). However, only half of cardholders are required to use them. Mobile wallet use is also up, with 64% adoption globally and 72% in Asia Pacific. 'As corporate travelers increasingly expect seamless, mobile-first payment experiences, it's no surprise the report found notable usage of corporate credit cards through mobile wallets. At Visa, we're focused on enabling this shift, offering secure, flexible digital payment tools that meet travelers where they are, and help organizations modernize their expense processes,' Edward Galvin, Vice President and head of North America B2B Commercial Payments, Visa. Download the 2025 Business Travel Index Outlook report Executive Summary here. GBTA members can exclusively access the full GBTA BTI™ report on the GBTA Hub here. Watch the 2025 GBTA BTI Forecast launch video featuring Suzanne Neufang, CEO, GBTA; Jon Gray, Principal, Rockport Analytics and Michael Brown, Principal U.S. Economist, Visa. To learn more about GBTA Research or inquire about GBTA BTI™ data for 2000-2029, visit the GBTA webpage or email research@ About GBTA The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) is the world's premier business travel and meetings trade organization serving stakeholders across six continents. GBTA and its 9,000+ members represent and advocate for the $1.57 trillion global business travel and meetings industry. GBTA and the GBTA Foundation deliver world-class education, events, research, advocacy, and media to a growing global network of more than 28,000 travel professionals and 125,000 active contacts. For more information, visit and
Tom's Guide
20-07-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
How to mosquito-proof yourself this summer — 7 simple tips
You step outside for five minutes and somehow return looking like you've been through a miniature battlefield, covered in itchy red welts while your friends remain mysteriously bite-free. It's maddening, isn't it? You've probably wondered if you're cursed with some kind of mosquito magnetism, but the truth is more scientific. Mosquitoes don't bite randomly, they're actually sophisticated hunters that use multiple sensory cues to select their preferred targets. Understanding what attracts mosquitoes to you in the first place gives you the power to make yourself a less appealing target. With the right tips, you can finally enjoy summer evenings. Here's how you can mosquito-proof yourself this summer. People who produce more carbon dioxide attract mosquitoes more strongly. You can reduce your CO2 output by avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours, typically dawn and dusk. If you need to exercise outside, choose midday when mosquitoes are less active, then shower promptly afterward to remove sweat and odors. Also, be aware that certain activities like drinking alcohol can increase your metabolic rate and CO2 production, making you more appealing to mosquitoes during outdoor gatherings. Mosquitoes are particularly drawn to lactic acid and ammonia in sweat, so staying clean and dry is crucial. Shower immediately after physical activity, especially if you've been sweating heavily. Use an antibacterial soap to reduce the skin bacteria that create appealing odors. And if you're spending extended time outdoors, bring wet wipes to clean sweat from exposed skin areas. Avoid heavily scented lotions or perfumes that might attract mosquitoes, opting instead for unscented personal care products. Formulated to release effective levels of BTI for a period of 30 days, this two-pack of mosquito dunks is non-toxic and will kill mosquito larvae before it has the chance to bite. And, as an added bonus, they double as a great fungus gnat treatment for your plants. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors and can bite through tight-fitting fabrics. Long sleeves and pants provide the best protection, but choose breathable materials to avoid overheating and excessive sweating. Consider treating your clothing with permethrin, an insect repellent that lasts through multiple washes and provides long-term protection without needing to be reapplied to your skin. For stationary activities like dining on your patio, use spatial repellents like Thermacell devices that create a mosquito-free zone around you. When you're mobile, apply DEET-based repellents to exposed skin, following label instructions carefully. If you prefer natural options, use high concentrations of essential oils like peppermint, lavender, or eucalyptus, but reapply every 30 minutes for continued effectiveness. Natural repellents work by masking the odors mosquitoes track, so consistent application is key. This pure peppermint oil is paraben free, and provides a fresh scent. Versatile to use in aromatherapy, or in an oil or reed diffuser. And while the fragrance is pleasant to our senses, it is also known to be a natural mosquito and pest repellent. Plan outdoor activities for times when mosquitoes are least active, typically during the heat of midday. Avoid spending time outside during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most aggressive. If you must be outdoors during peak mosquito hours, increase your protective measures by combining repellents, protective clothing, and staying in areas with good air circulation. Fans can help disperse the CO2 and scent trails that attract mosquitoes to you. Create mosquito-unfriendly zones around your outdoor spaces by eliminating standing water where mosquitoes breed. Use fans on patios and decks, as mosquitoes are weak fliers and avoid windy areas. Plant mosquito-repelling herbs like citronella, basil, and marigolds around seating areas. And consider installing bug zappers or mosquito traps in areas where you spend time, positioning them away from your seating area to draw mosquitoes away from you. If you have Type O blood, you're statistically more likely to be bitten, so you'll need to be extra vigilant with protective measures. Double down on repellent application, especially on exposed areas like ankles and wrists where mosquitoes commonly bite. Consider using multiple types of protection simultaneously, such as treated clothing plus topical repellent. Stay particularly alert during outdoor activities and reapply protective measures more frequently than the average person might need to. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to get rid of mosquitoes in your home and your yard, and you can even make your own non-toxic mosquito trap in just a few easy steps. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips.
Business Insider
12-07-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
British American Tobacco call volume above normal and directionally bullish
Bullish option flow detected in British American Tobacco (BTI) with 14,684 calls trading, 3x expected, and implied vol increasing almost 3 points to 28.03%. Aug-25 48 calls and Jul-25 50 puts are the most active options, with total volume in those strikes near 9,700 contracts. The Put/Call Ratio is 0.34. Earnings are expected on July 31st. Elevate Your Investing Strategy: Take advantage of TipRanks Premium at 50% off! Unlock powerful investing tools, advanced data, and expert analyst insights to help you invest with confidence. Make smarter investment decisions with TipRanks' Smart Investor Picks, delivered to your inbox every week.
Tom's Guide
09-07-2025
- Health
- Tom's Guide
The mosquito dunks that saved my plants (and my sanity) from fungus gnat hell are on sale for $17 this Prime Day
Let me paint you a picture: It started innocently enough. A few tiny flies buzzing around my favorite monstera. "No big deal," I thought. "Just a couple of gnats." The Summit Mosquito Dunks 6-pack is currently $17 at Amazon and while they're designed for mosquito control, they've become my secret weapon against the most annoying household pest known to plant parents. For more Prime Day savings like this, head to our Prime Day deals live blog, where we're tracking the best offers as they land. These aren't just for mosquitoes — they're fungus gnat destroyers. Drop one in your watering can, let it brew for 24 hours, then water normally. The BTI bacteria kills larvae in soil while staying completely safe for humans and pets. One dunk lasts 30 days. Fungus gnats are the worst kind of house guests — they multiply without permission and refuse to leave. What started out as a couple gnats flitting around turned into a full-scale invasion within two weeks. My apartment looked like a horror movie. Clouds of fungus gnats swarmed every time I walked past my plant shelf. They dive-bombed my morning coffee, invaded my laptop screen during meetings, and somehow managed to find their way into my wine glass during dinner. Then I discovered mosquito dunks. Yes, mosquito dunks. I know it sounds weird, but hear me out. These little donut-shaped tablets contain a bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI) that's basically kryptonite for fungus gnat larvae. You drop one in your watering can, let it "brew" for 24 hours like the world's most boring tea, then water your plants normally. The BTI bacteria gets into the soil and absolutely destroys the larvae before they can become those annoying flying demons. It's completely safe for humans, pets, and beneficial insects. It's just nature doing what nature does — one microorganism taking out another. Within a week of using my mosquito dunk tea, the gnat population plummeted. Within two weeks, they were gone. Completely gone. I could finally drink my coffee in peace and chill on the sofa without swatting at my face like a maniac. As my colleague Nikita can attest, the results are genuinely shocking — she was horrified by how many adult gnats were stuck to her yellow traps just one morning after putting them up. The combination of mosquito dunk tea and sticky traps cleared her monstera's infestation completely, and the plant even sprouted new growth within a week. These bright yellow sticky traps work like fungus gnat magnets. The adults can't resist flying straight into them and getting permanently stuck. They pair perfectly with mosquito dunks since the dunks kill larvae in the soil while these traps catch any stragglers still flying around. And here's the bonus: If you're dealing with actual mosquitoes, you can use these dunks exactly as intended. It's like buying a two-for-one pest control system. Each dunk lasts about 30 days and will keep you gnat-free for months. At $17 for a 20-pack, these mosquito dunks are the best money I've ever spent on plant care. Trust me, if you're battling fungus gnats, skip the Pinterest remedies and go straight to the nuclear option. Your plants (and your sanity) will thank you. There are plenty more deals to be had this Prime Day — make sure you check out our Prime Day live blog to make sure you're staying on top of all the latest sales and offers.
Buzz Feed
09-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Buzz Feed
30 Things That'll Have You Spending Basically Every Hour Of The Day In Your Backyard
A bestselling double cotton hammock so you can kick back in your own cozy cocoon without a care in the world. This sturdy steel setup is your quick fix to the age-old "no trees to hang a hammock" problem, making your dream of lounging in a hanging haven a reality. A pack of motion-activated lights, because the fun doesn't have to stop just because the sun went down. They come equipped with solar panels, letting you light up all those shadowy corners without adding a cent to your electricity bill. And a pack of solar-powered stake lights to put an end to your nights of tiptoeing down a dark walkway, fearing a misstep might send you tumbling. These lights are both practical and a magical upgrade for your walkway, offering two fantastic lighting options: classic white for a sophisticated glow, or vibrant multicolored lights sure to make every night feel like a celebration. A sprinkle of fast-acting lawn repair formula ready to turn your patchy yard into a lush paradise. This grass seed repair minimizes the effects of unsightly pet urine spots, digging disasters, and worn-down high-traffic areas. Watch as your lawn transforms into a picturesque Windows home screen, complete with grass swaying in the wind. A high-voltage bug zapper ridding your yard of mosquitoes, gnats, and flies (oh my!) in an impressive half-acre range, making your outdoor gatherings more enjoyable and hassle-free. And a garbage guard for when you just want to sit back, relax, and enjoy your all of a sudden, you hear this agitating, grating noise of flies buzzing around the garbage can. This little gizmo sticks inside your garbage can and releases an odorless vapor that keeps bugs at bay for a whopping four months. A portable 120-inch screen that'll make outdoor movie nights feel like a cinematic experience. Set it up with a mini Bluetooth projector (compatible with TV sticks, your phone, and more) and enjoy entertainment under the stars with family and friends, creating unforgettable memories in the comfort of your own backyard. A pack of mosquito dunks formulated to decrease the presence of mosquitoes over time, allowing you to reclaim your outdoor sanctuary. These dunks are infused with BTI, a bacteria that's toxic to mosquitoes and their larvae, but safe for wildlife. Just drop the dunks into any standing water, and within hours, it will eliminate both mosquitoes and larvae for up to 30 days. Or a set of DEET-free mosquito-repelling bracelets if you plan on spending most evenings lounging around outside, a cold sweet tea in hand, but you can't stand sticky, smelly bug sprays. With these bracelets, you can forget about constantly reapplying spray; plus, they're super cute, easy to wear, and — most importantly — keep mosquitoes at bay without the need for harsh chemicals. A tree swing that beckons both kids and adults alike with playful swinging under the treetops and moments of serene, gentle swaying that can calm even the busiest of minds. It can hold to 900 pounds, withstand the elements, and reviewers say it's pretty easy to put together. An adjustable Ninja Warrior obstacle course, aka a fantastic (and cheaper) alternative to a standard swing set. Think: a day filled of climbing, swinging, flipping, and balancing. You may not know exactly what the kiddos are training for, but at least we can confidently say they will be prepared. An umbrella light offering a lovely blend of style and functionality. Now you'll have overhead lighting while enjoying a meal under the stars or playing a board game with the fam. An outdoor misting system to attach under your awning, patio table umbrella, or pergola so that cool mist gently envelops you on a warm day. Just screw one end onto your garden hose and clip the rest around your preferred outdoor lounging area. No sweat (literally). Or an adjustable mister ready to cool you (and your surroundings) off by up to 20 degrees. Whether you're catching some rays on a lounge chair or just chilling on your patio, this mister can stand on its own or wrap around a structure with ease. A stainless-steel grill insert because the weather is finally nice out, so we're going to seize every chance to savor the outdoors. With this, you can transform your kettle grill into a fancy pizza oven for a delightful family dinner al fresco. A discreet outdoor Wi-Fi extender that attaches to a wall or pole to instantly expand your network's reach. Now you can stream your favorite movies, groove to playlists, or scroll through TikTok while soaking up some sun — *without* having to run up your data. A slatted 6-foot tall cedar privacy screen equipped with built-in planters, giving you your own secluded nook while blocking out the less-than-pleasant views of your neighbor's tool shed, garbage cans, and AC units. Or a roll of faux ivy to give your fence a makeover, creating a lush green barrier to keep nosy neighbors out of your business. Or! You can drape these vibrant vines over your pergola — as the sun plays peek-a-boo through the leaves, your space will be bathed in a soft, dappled light, creating an enchanting atmosphere. An outdoor drink stakes set here to secure a spot for your cold drinks if your chair lacks a cup holder. (Like come on, reeeally?!) No more worrying about spills or having to awkwardly hold onto your beverage when you need to stand up. Plus, they come in a variety of colors, making it easy for everyone to remember which drink is theirs. An easy-to-install hummingbird feeder turning your plain window into your very own birdwatching paradise. You'll get a front-row seat to those colorful little aviators buzzing about before your very eyes. Some solar-powered outdoor string lights to create a dreamy atmosphere in your yard without being confined to the nearest outlet. When draped over trees or around railings, these elegant lights mimic a twinkling night sky, offering a soft, romantic glow that's perfect for any outdoor occasion. And a pack of solar-powered garden lights so your outdoor space can feel like a magical wonderland with tiny little fairies dancing in the breeze. With bendy stems and weighted bases, they're designed to sway gracefully, creating a mesmerizing display without the hassle of plugs or switches. A side table cooler designed to keep your drinks ice cold and at your fingertips while lounging outside. As a bonus, just raise the lid up and the cooler becomes a sleek cocktail table. A stunning glassworks wind chime for creating a symphony of colorful sights and soothing sounds with every gentle breeze. A massive pack of wildflower seeds here to convert your plain green lawn into a vibrant tapestry of colors. These aren't just any flowers; they're the kind that even those of us without a green thumb can grow with ease. Your garden will get a rainbow makeover that'll make every glance out the window or stroll in the yard a delightful experience. An elevated dog bed with a canopy, the perfect setup for some quality outdoor chill time together. Your pup will be living their best life beside you in the backyard, all shaded, comfy, and relaxed. A basket weave cotton throw blanket perfect for both indoor and outdoor lounging. It'll be your cozy companion when you refuse to let a slight evening chill interrupt your outdoor relaxation. It's machine washable, making it easy to keep clean, and it'll instantly elevate the look and feel of your space. An adjustable gardening bench designed to make your time among the blooms and greens even more enjoyable. You can sit on it comfortably like a regular seat, then flip it over to kneel on its cushy pad, all without the usual knee pain that comes from sowing seeds and battling relentless weeds. Along with a hands-free bladeless personal fan you can wear around your neck to have not one but *two* fans pointing directly at your face, keeping you cool and comfortable. Use it and enjoy a gentle, refreshing breeze while working in your garden or simply lounging on the patio. A splurge-worthy yet functional pop-up tent making your yard the place to be rain or shine. Its waterproof cover can weather all the elements while sporting a cool ventilation feature that keeps the vibe chill and breezy. Just deck it out with some comfy furniture, a chic outdoor rug, and piles of pillows and blankets, and boom — you've just created a peaceful sanctuary.
