Tuesday's Afternoon Update

What you need to know about Florida today

| 12/29/2015

Florida courts to implement new long-range strategic plan starting in 2016

Florida’s judicial branch has updated its long-range strategic plan, taking into consideration demographic, economic, social, technological and legal challenges likely to face the state’s courts through the year 2021, Chief Justice Jorge Labarga said Tuesday. The plan will help Florida's courts be responsive to the needs of the state’s families, businesses and anyone who turns to the courts. Full statement from the Florida Supreme Court, here.

America's days are numbered as the world's top economy

The U.S. is expected to retain its status as the world's largest economy for a few years longer than analysts previously anticipated. But over the course of the next 16 years, the global economic landscape is expected to shift seismically from where it now stands. More at US News & World Report.

U.S. home prices climb in October, helped by solid job market

Steady job growth, low mortgage rates and tight inventories helped fuel rising U.S. home prices in October. The Standard & Poor's/Case-Shiller 20-city home price index rose 5.5 percent in the 12 months ending in October. More at the AP.

Retailers leery of phony returns this holiday season

The busiest time of the year for retailers comes with a price. Nationwide, retailers expect to lose more than $2.2 billion in retail fraud this holiday season, up from $1.9 billion in 2014. More at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Five ways retirement will change in 2016

As you plan for retirement, it's important to stay on top of specific changes that can affect your retirement accounts, Social Security and investments. These changes could impact your saving strategy and might require that you make adjustments to your retirement plan to stay on track. More at the Tribune News Service.

Out of the Box
Are Legos a better investment than gold?

For those looking for a solid return on their investment, an online tour of toys on eBay could be time better spent than a call to a broker. That's because a Lego set in mint condition may well represent a better future haul than a pot of gold.

» More from WTSP

Holiday Trends
Bubbly prices remain flat

Planning to serve bubbly for New Year’s Eve? You’ll be paying about the same as last year for your libation. Prices for most Champagnes, cavas and proseccos have remained flat, says Mike Bittel, co-owner and wine buyer of Sunset Corners Wines & Liquors in South Miami-Dade.