In the last two years, grocery delivery prices in London have risen sharply, especially through Uber Eats. Despite the higher costs, people are increasingly relying on the service for a wide range of items. Additionally, with a potential TikTok shop ban looming in the US, consumers are turning to the platform more than ever. All this and more in today's Money Making Moves:

> The use of apps like Uber Eats for food and household essentials has nearly doubled in two years, despite higher costs compared to traditional shopping. Introduced during the pandemic as a gamble, Uber Eats’ grocery service has seen a 50% increase in usage, with London leading in orders for items like milk, bananas, and eggs. However, convenience comes at a premium, with app prices significantly higher than shopping in-store or even using supermarket delivery services. Customers, particularly in urban areas, seem willing to pay more for the time-saving benefits of quick deliveries, echoing the broader trend of technology disrupting traditional shopping practices.

> UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was fatally shot while walking to an investor event, highlighting growing concerns about executive safety. The incident has sparked widespread alarm among corporations, with many reevaluating security measures amid rising threats fueled by social media and political polarization. Security experts emphasize that such attacks are preventable with robust protection programs, though many executives decline security due to lifestyle disruptions or image concerns. In response, companies are increasing protections for leaders and reconsidering the importance of comprehensive threat assessment and risk management.

> TikTok Shop has rapidly gained momentum in U.S. e-commerce since its September 2023 launch, with holiday sales reaching $100 million on Black Friday and outpacing rivals like Shein and Temu during Cyber Week. The platform’s influencer-driven marketing and fast delivery have attracted shoppers, but its future is uncertain as a federal appeals court upheld a law requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok in the U.S. or face a potential ban. A ban would extend to TikTok Shop, jeopardizing its role as a key revenue stream for brands and merchants who have come to rely on its unique live-stream shopping feature. Despite the legal challenges, TikTok Shop has tripled its live-session usage and cemented itself as a significant player in the U.S. online shopping space.

CNC machines offer an excellent opportunity for starting a small business, allowing entrepreneurs to produce custom-designed goods efficiently and affordably. With machines available for as little as a few hundred dollars, small-scale operations can create unique products like home décor, toys, and cooking tools from home. Online marketplaces like Etsy and Facebook Marketplace drive high demand for CNC-made items, providing a platform to reach customers seeking personalized, high-quality designs. For example, businesses like Avocrafts leverage CNC technology to produce distinctive cedar coasters and placemats, proving that combining creativity with automation can lead to a profitable small business venture.

Transform your passion for photography into a profitable venture by specializing in a niche market. Instead of offering general photography services, focus on areas like cosplay, pin-up, or sports to differentiate yourself from others. A niche focus positions you as an expert, attracting clients who value specialized skills and unique expertise. This approach enhances your visibility and increases your chances of building a successful photography business.

> In 1996, former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan warned of "irrational exuberance" in the stock market, citing excessive optimism driving stock prices higher than justified by fundamentals. Today, indicators like the S&P 500 Shiller CAPE ratio and the market-to-GDP ratio suggest we may be seeing a repeat of this phenomenon, signaling an overvalued market. Despite this, Warren Buffett remains cautious, opting to sell stocks and build up a large cash reserve, while continuing to invest selectively in companies that meet his stringent criteria. Buffett’s strategy of avoiding market timing and focusing on value investing is considered a smart approach, especially in uncertain market conditions. For stock options and investing, click here. 

> Tiffney Prickett, an Idaho beauty salon owner, went viral on TikTok for calling Trump supporters racist, homophobic, and misogynistic, leading to a boycott of her salon, Voire, from many Republican clients. In her video, Prickett criticized the behavior of Trump supporters, emphasizing her concerns about sexism and the lack of male allies for women. Despite facing backlash, including the loss of long-term clients, Prickett stood by her views, stating she would not silence herself to make others feel comfortable. Similarly, Memphis florist Kristin Wolter faced controversy and threats after announcing she would not do business with Trump supporters, forcing her to close her shop temporarily.

> Airbus has announced plans to cut 477 jobs in the UK as part of a global restructuring following a 22% drop in profits, citing increased costs and supply chain disruptions. The job reductions, totaling 2,000 worldwide, will primarily affect the space division, headquarters, and air power departments. Despite a 7% increase in sales, Airbus is struggling to meet the growing demand for aircraft due to operational bottlenecks. The company also withdrew from bidding on a £1 billion UK Ministry of Defence contract, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining competitiveness and securing key contracts.