Highlights of the week (December week 2)

? Starbucks is making big changes in its rewards program that “divide” customers.

Starbucks is brewing more than just coffee this time, with its latest changes to the rewards scheme causing a stir among its customer base. The brand, known for its iconic green mermaid and caramel frappuccinos, is redesigning how rewards are earned and redeemed. Under the new system, customers will need to spend more to earn stars and reach a higher tier status, which are the backbone of the program. Previously, a certain number of stars could get you free drinks and snacks, but now, those rewards feel just a little further away. The change, unsurprisingly, has left many customers divided. Loyal customers who frequent the coffee giant daily may not feel the pinch as much, but occasional visitors aren’t as thrilled. Social media quickly lit up with debates, with some claiming Starbucks is squeezing loyal customers while others shrug it off as a minor adjustment. It’s clear the change is a gamble, as loyalty programs are a significant draw for customers to stick with their favorite brands. Starbucks, for its part, explained the adjustments as a way to maintain the program’s sustainability and value for its users. With inflation and rising costs in the mix, it seems the company is trying to strike a balance between profitability and customer satisfaction. While the backlash might seem intense now, the company is banking on its strong brand loyalty to weather the storm. Time will tell if the new scheme strengthens its customer base or sends some looking for alternatives. In the end, Starbucks has made its move—now it’s up to customers to decide if it’s worth staying with the brand.

?? Watsons’ recycle rewards program encourages people into the habit of recycling.

Watsons, a popular health and beauty retailer, is stepping up for the planet with its "Recycle for Rewards" program. This initiative aims to get consumers into the habit of recycling by offering incentives for returning empty product containers. By exchanging their used beauty and health products, customers can earn rewards, making sustainability not just an ethical choice but also a rewarding one. It’s a creative push to address the growing waste problem, particularly in the beauty industry, where packaging waste often piles up. The program has been warmly received, with many customers appreciating the opportunity to give back to the environment while benefiting themselves. For the brand, this program not only promotes sustainability but also strengthens its bond with eco-conscious shoppers. It’s a win-win for both the company and the environment, showing how small actions can collectively make a big impact. Recycling initiatives like this one are essential as global waste levels continue to climb. Many consumers want to live more sustainably but often lack convenient ways to do so. Watsons bridges that gap by making recycling accessible and rewarding. Customers can now feel good about their purchases, knowing their used products won’t end up in landfills. Plus, the incentives provide an extra nudge for those who might need a bit more motivation to adopt eco-friendly habits. Watsons’ effort is a great example of how businesses can drive change while aligning with consumer values. Programs like these remind us that sustainability doesn’t have to be boring or burdensome—it can be as simple as dropping off your empties during your next shopping trip.

??Nissan Web3 rewards program revives NFT in Japan.

Nissan has launched a game-changing Web3 rewards program in Japan, combining both blockchain technology with customer engagement. The program allows customers to earn NFTs (non-fungible tokens) for activities like test drives and special visits to Nissan dealerships. These digital assets can then be redeemed for exclusive rewards that keep customers, especially car enthusiasts, engaged. Nissan’s innovative approach is breathing new life into NFTs, showcasing their practical use beyond just digital art collections. After a period of declining interest in NFTs, Nissan’s move has reignited excitement in the space. By tying NFTs to real-world actions and tangible rewards, the program gives these digital tokens a purpose beyond speculation. Customers are excited about the perks, ranging from exclusive merchandise to service discounts. This strategy transforms loyalty programs into something interactive and modern, seamlessly blending digital and physical worlds. The choice to implement Web3 tech in Japan is without reason, as the tech-savvy market is ripe for innovation. Nissan’s program taps into Japan’s appetite for new technology while addressing the growing demand for more personalized, rewarding customer experiences. By offering unique NFTs as part of the rewards scheme, Nissan ensures that customers feel valued and connected to the brand on a deeper level than ever. This Web3 rewards initiative could pave the way for other industries to rethink their customer engagement strategies. By making NFTs accessible and functional, Nissan is setting a precedent for how blockchain can be integrated into everyday life. Whether it’s revamping rewards programs or reimagining customer rewards, Nissan’s bold step shows that NFTs still have plenty of road left to travel.

?? Foot Locker rewards revamp shows early signs of success

Foot Locker is taking its customer experience to the next level with an exciting revamp of its rewards program. The retailer has unveiled "FLX Points," a streamlined system designed to reward loyal shoppers more effectively. The one-month-old rewards program has also received positive feedback from its customers so far and show early signs of success as there are more purchases because of the rewards program this month compared to before when the brand didn’t have the program. Foot Locker’s new approach aims to make every step in your shopping journey more rewarding. This rewards upgrade isn't just about points—it’s about creating a deeper connection with the brand. Members can look forward to exclusive access to limited-edition releases, early notifications, and event invitations. By enhancing these perks, Foot Locker ensures its program appeals not only to casual shoppers but also to its core sneaker-loving audience. It's a win-win, fostering loyalty while keeping customers excited and engaged. The program revamp reflects broader trends in retail, where companies are rethinking loyalty strategies to keep up with evolving customer expectations. Foot Locker’s FLX Points focus on simplicity and exclusivity, two elements customers increasingly value. At a time when competition in retail is fierce, initiatives like this help the brand stand out and strengthen its relationship with its most dedicated customers. Foot Locker’s move sets the stage for other retailers to reconsider how they reward customers’ loyalty. By understanding what truly motivates their audience—whether it’s perks, access, or community—brands can create programs that keep customers coming back. For Foot Locker, this rewards program revamp is not just about selling shoes; it’s about building a long-term bond with its customers.?

??Crypto market in South Korea dropped as the president decided on martial law?

In a dramatic turn of events, Bitcoin’s price tumbled to $70,000 on South Korean exchanges, sparking confusion and alarm among investors. This sharp drop coincided with South Korea’s president declaring martial law, a move that has shaken the nation’s political and financial stability. For crypto enthusiasts, the situation serves as a stark reminder of how external factors can influence market behavior. The martial law announcement follows weeks of escalating tension in the country, leaving investors wary and jittery. In South Korea, a country with a strong crypto presence, Bitcoin is often a bellwether for how the market perceives risk. The plummet to $70,000 reflects heightened uncertainty as traders rushed to sell off their holdings, causing a temporary liquidity crunch on local exchanges. Analysts also suggest that the combination of political unrest and the local panic sell-off created this unusual pricing discrepancy, catching both seasoned and new traders off guard. Despite the drop, experts believe that Bitcoin’s fundamental value remains intact, and this episode is more of a localized reaction than a global crypto downturn. In fact, some see this as an opportunity for savvy investors to buy the dip, banking on the idea that the market will eventually stabilize. For South Korean investors, though, this event underscores the need for caution and diversification in their portfolios. As the dust settles, it will be interesting to see how the crypto market responds to South Korea’s unfolding crisis. For now, the Bitcoin dip highlights the interplay between geopolitical events and digital currencies. It’s a reminder that while cryptocurrencies operate independently of traditional financial systems, they are far from immune to the world’s unpredictable realities.

???Microsoft rejected crypto integration because its shareholders didn’t want it.

Microsoft, one of the world’s most influential tech companies, has made waves in the financial world by officially rejecting Bitcoin as part of its corporate strategy. Despite calls from a vocal group of shareholders advocating for Bitcoin adoption, Microsoft’s decision reflects a cautious approach to integrating cryptocurrencies. This move has sparked debate in the tech and crypto communities, highlighting the ongoing tug-of-war between tradition and innovation. Shareholders pushing for Bitcoin argued that the cryptocurrency could serve as both an investment asset and a hedge against inflation. They pointed to companies like Tesla and MicroStrategy, which have successfully incorporated Bitcoin into their financial strategies. However, Microsoft emphasized its focus on stability, scalability, and environmental sustainability—three areas where Bitcoin’s volatility and energy-intensive mining processes raise concerns. This decision aligns with Microsoft’s broader goals, particularly its commitment to sustainability. The company has heavily invested in green technologies and pledged to be carbon-negative by 2030. Integrating Bitcoin, notorious for its high energy consumption, could contradict these objectives. As a result, Microsoft has chosen to prioritize its long-term environmental goals over short-term financial opportunities. For the crypto world, this rejection is a sobering reminder that not all tech giants are ready to embrace Bitcoin. While many companies worldwide see cryptocurrency as the future of finance, others unfortunately remain hesitant, citing regulatory uncertainty and reputational risks. Microsoft’s decision could influence other major corporations to weigh their options, potentially slowing down the broader adoption of Bitcoin and crypto in the corporate sector. Despite this setback, Bitcoin enthusiasts remain optimistic. They argue that the cryptocurrency’s growing global adoption by individuals and smaller organizations will ultimately outweigh the reluctance of major players like Microsoft. In the meantime, Microsoft’s stance serves as a litmus test for the evolving relationship between traditional tech giants and the disruptive world of crypto.

??UAE approves dirham-backed stablecoin to boost crypto market growth there.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has taken a significant leap in the crypto world by approving its first dirham-backed stablecoin. This groundbreaking move signals the UAE’s commitment to integrating digital assets into its financial ecosystem. With its stable value tied to the UAE dirham, this stablecoin is expected to provide a secure and regulated bridge between traditional finance and the ever-evolving world of cryptocurrencies. Stablecoins have gained massive popularity in recent years, offering the benefits of digital assets without the price volatility typically associated with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum. By introducing a dirham-backed stablecoin, the UAE aims to encourage broader adoption of digital payments, streamline cross-border transactions, and provide businesses with a reliable tool for managing their finances in the digital age. This launch aligns perfectly with the UAE’s broader ambitions to position itself as a global hub for blockchain and crypto innovation. The country has already established itself as a pioneer in fostering a crypto-friendly environment, with initiatives like Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (VARA) setting the standard for clear and comprehensive crypto regulations. The stablecoin approval further cements the UAE’s leadership in this space. For investors and businesses, the introduction of a dirham-backed stablecoin opens up new opportunities. It provides a dependable way to store and transfer value without the risks associated with currency fluctuations. This is especially appealing for companies involved in international trade, as it reduces costs and simplifies processes. Moreover, it underscores the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to embracing technology to boost economic growth. As the first stablecoin of its kind in the region, this development is likely to spark further innovation in the crypto industry, not just in the UAE but globally. The move demonstrates how nations can leverage blockchain technology to enhance their financial systems while maintaining trust and stability. With this step, the UAE is proving that the future of finance is digital, and it’s leading the charge.

??Florida is planning to use almost $2 billion from the pension funds for crypto investment.??

Florida is making headlines with a bold step into the digital future, investing a whopping $1.85 billion from its pension fund into crypt-related assets. This strategic decision reflects growing confidence in the transformative potential of blockchain technology and digital currencies. By committing such a significant portion of its pension fund to this nascent market, Florida is signaling its intent to be at the forefront of financial innovation. This move is part of a broader trend where institutional investors are increasingly exploring crypto as an asset class. With cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum gaining traction, Florida’s investment is seen as a vote of confidence in the long-term viability of these digital assets. It also highlights the state’s willingness to diversify its portfolio and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the evolving crypto landscape. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the volatility and risks associated with cryptocurrencies. While the potential for high returns exists, the crypto market is infamous for its dramatic price swings. Florida’s decision to invest pension funds—a lifeline for retirees—into such a volatile market has sparked debate about the balance between innovation and responsibility. Supporters argue that calculated risks are necessary for significant rewards, while detractors urge caution in protecting public funds. The investment aligns with Florida’s broader ambition to position itself as a hub for tech and crypto innovation. The state has already attracted major crypto companies and blockchain startups, creating a favorable ecosystem for digital assets. By integrating crypto into its pension strategy, Florida not only underscores its belief in the technology but also encourages other states to consider similar forward-thinking approaches. As the crypto market continues to evolve, Florida’s $1.85 billion investment will be closely watched. If successful, it could set a precedent for other institutional investors and state governments to follow suit. For now, Florida has taken a bold step into the digital age, betting that the rewards of cryptocurrency will outweigh the risks in the long run.