Roundup: Gen Z shoppers / Hottest job sectors / Copper thefts surge

Budget tightening: Gen Z is tightening holiday budgets far more than other age groups, squeezing retailers that rely on young shoppers to drive trends. Deloitte says Gen Z plans to cut spending by 34% amid rent, loan payments and higher essentials. Overall holiday sales are up, but shoppers are buying fewer items as prices climb. Read more from The Wall Street Journal. 

Help wanted: U.S. employment is projected to grow 3.1% by 2034, adding 5.2 million jobs, the Bureau of Labor Statistics says. Health care and professional services lead the expansion, with nurse practitioners, data scientists and information security analysts among the fastest-growing roles. An aging population and rising AI adoption are the major forces reshaping future labor demand. Read more from CNBC. 

Wreaking havoc : Copper thefts are surging nationwide as prices hit record highs, disrupting 911 service, internet access and business operations. AT&T alone has logged $76 million in damage this year as thieves rip out copper lines across Los Angeles. Telecom companies and regulators are pushing tougher laws, tracking tech and faster upgrades to fiber. Read more from The Wall Street Journal.