Este Lauder Ends Merger Talks with Spanish Rival Puig Over Compensation Sticking Point Consumer Credit Growth Surges in December Potential Implications for Spending and Economic Outlook Mortgage Rates Edge Up to 653 Adding Pressure on Spring Homebuyers Gold Prices Navigate Mixed Signals Amid Dollar Strength and Rate Expectations Consumer Spending Continues Upward Trend with Third Consecutive Monthly Increase in Retail Sales Artha Venture Funds EarlyStage Strategy Spotting Winnable Ideas Before Market Readiness Yardeni Warns Fed May Need July Rate Hike to Calm Bond Vigilantes as Warsh Era Begins