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“About $32,000”

— Buckingham Palace, listing the yearly salary for a full-time communications assistant gig. They're putting out an SOS.

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Commuters walk along the hallway at Times Square Subway station on March 6 2024. in New York City.

The Kids Are Not Alright

The Story

A new report revealed Americans' happiness is dropping, particularly among young adults.

Should I get Elmo?

Probably. For the first time since the report was launched in 2012, the US no longer ranks in the top 20 happiest countries, falling from 15th place to 23rd. All age groups reported a decline in happiness, but there was a stark difference between older Americans and young adults. Americans ages 60 and up ranked 10th globally for happiness, while under-30s in the US ranked 62nd. Negative emotions were also more frequent among women of all ages. Experts say young adults are having a midlife crisis well before becoming middle aged.

Wait, what's changed?

There's no single answer. Many point to polarization, social media use, and economic inequality between generations as potential factors. Then, there’s the fact that many young adults are dealing with loneliness and anxiety. That could be attributed in part to the covid pandemic, which affected people's education, careers, and ability to build community. If you’re looking to turn things around, experts say increasing social interactions, getting out in nature, and finding a sense of purpose can help.

So where are people actually happy?

Finland. Other Nordic countries also ranked in the top five. Experts say that's largely due to those countries' national social support programs and positive health outcomes. Having a healthy work-life balance also apparently helps.

theSkimm

This latest report is sounding the alarm about the well-being of young adults in the US, and it comes as officials and experts have been warning about the loneliness epidemic and consequences of social media.

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And Also...This

What’s getting a boost…

EVs. Yesterday, the Biden administration finalized new rules that limit tailpipe pollution from passenger cars and trucks. It's part of a wider effort to steer the country towards electric vehicles and hybrid cars. The rules won't go into effect overnight — to give automakers time and flexibility to decide how to comply. The Environmental Protection Agency said Biden's plan, which originally proposed half of all vehicles sold to be electric by 2030, now gives automakers until 2032 to cut emissions. Still, some climate activists hailed the move as a significant step in reducing America's greenhouse gas emissions (gas cars make up about one-fifth, currently). But experts say this won't be the end of the road, as Republican states and fossil fuel companies could challenge the new rule in court.

Where DEI got booted…

Alabama. Yesterday, Gov. Kay Ivey (R) signed a new bill into law that blocks public schools and universities from using state funds for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. The new law, which goes into effect in October, blocks public schools and state offices from having DEI offices and restricts teaching “divisive” topics. It also prohibits individuals from using a bathroom that is different from their biological sex at birth, impacting transgender students. Critics said the law will undermine education and stifle free speech. One GOP state lawmaker reportedly said the bill’s goal is to prevent “compelled speech and indoctrination.” Alabama is the latest Republican-led state to target DEI programs, following states like Texas, Florida, and Utah.

Which lawsuit is for the girls…

The proposed Birkin class-action. Two California residents sued the French luxury brand Hermès this week, alleging the company is violating antitrust law by only allowing customers with “sufficient purchase history” to buy the famed bag. The exclusive bags range in price and can go for six figures, but having the cash alone doesn't guarantee you one. Customers have to be invited after spending an unspecified amount of money on Hermès goodies. The plaintiffs are seeking damages and want the courts to crack down on Hermès’ alleged anticompetitive business practices. It’s not a bag. It’s a Birkin.

What's got Wall Street buzzing...

Steady interest rates and a Reddit IPO. Yesterday, the stock market reached new highs after the Federal Reserve kept interest rates the same and said three rate cuts could be in the future. The news comes as Reddit makes its public debut on Wall Street today, making it the first major social media company since 2019 to do so. Time to ring the bell.

Skimm Picks

Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…

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Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).

On Our Radar

Intimate dinners with New York City’s top chefs. Resident pairs culinary talent from sought-after spots (like Carbone, Eleven Madison Park, and Per Se) with luxury locations (like multi-million dollar apartments) for an exclusive and delicious dining experience. Yum.*

Skimm'rs

We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.

(Some) Birthdays…Michelle Peleg (CA), Satya Patel (CA), Caroline Paris (NY), Leslie Leavoy (LA), Alexis Mortenson (NY), Amy Busch (OR), Colleen Scott (NC), Jennifer Lunny (FL), Kalei Click (WA), Katie Tebbe (MO), Lejla Maley (OH), Lenora McEntire Doss (GA), Mikey Gaudet (CA), Ryan Barnes (OK), Sarah Pawli (GA)

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