Something a tad nontraditional on the wishlist of more children this year? Skin care products. This $180 billion industry has caught the attention of young people born 2010 onward (even if they already have a naturally youthful look). Now, dermatologists are warning families that some of these products can cause long-term damage if used too young. But first, a droopy stock index is getting attention this morning.

Even though inflation has come down from its pandemic highs, some of it is still sticking. Yet average pay has been keeping up with — and even outpacing — rising prices. Turns out, low- and middle-income workers have been making up some ground. We dig in. Plus: a closer look at AI’s growing role in processing health insurance claims and talks of a potentially tectonic shift in the global auto industry.

From the BBC World Service: A potential merger of two of Japan’s largest carmakers could be in the cards; Nissan and Honda have said they’re “exploring various possibilities for future collaboration.” Also on the show: The global skincare market is worth billions of dollars, but it’s not just adults who are spending big — kids are also making more purchases than ever, and dermatologists are warning unsuitable products could damage their skin.