Major banks like Citigroup, Barclays, and HSBC are requiring employees to return to the office five days a week due to renewed FINRA regulations on workplace inspections, which include registering and inspecting home offices. While some banks cite these regulations as the reason for the shift, FINRA argues that its rules offer flexibility for remote work. Banks are trying to make office environments more appealing to encourage voluntary returns, despite the regulatory push.
Despite a decline in remote work popularity post-pandemic, the demand for remote jobs remains high, with over 1.1 million global searches monthly. A list of 20 companies hiring for fully remote positions in 2025 includes Allstate, Amgen, Atlassian, and Spotify, among others. These companies offer various remote work policies, from hybrid models to fully remote options, providing job seekers with numerous opportunities to find remote work that aligns with their preferences and values.
A list of 34 work-from-home essentials for Type-A personalities includes noise-cancelling earbuds, noise-reduction earplugs, cleaning putty gel, a portable dual monitor, a cold brew coffee maker, a reusable notebook, fast-drying highlighters, self-adhesive cable clips, a cord organizer, a keyboard cover, a rotating timer, a wall charger, an attachable laptop belt, a desktop whiteboard, waterproof sticky notes, an aromatherapy migraine stick, webcam covers, a Bluetooth label maker, a mug warmer, a tear-off daily planner, an electric standing desk, an anti-fatigue mat, desk chairs, soundproofing strips, a Bluetooth speakerphone, a charging station, a desk organizer, a document holder, a laptop holder, a phone holder, and a privacy sign.
A list of 13 affordable gadgets and accessories to improve the work-from-home experience includes blue-light–blocking glasses, a USB-powered cooling pad, a wall charger with six outlets and two USB fast-charging ports, a charging dock with three slots, wireless Bluetooth earbuds, a printer stand, a Rocketbook smart reusable notebook, a rotating timer, a shortcut keyboard cover, a wall-mounted drop-leaf table, an adjustable foam footrest, a folding wall organizer, and a mug warmer.
New Jersey is bracing for a winter storm expected to bring 3 to 6 inches of snow, prompting Gov. Phil Murphy to urge residents to work from home if possible and to stay off the roads due to potential icy conditions. A state of emergency has been declared, with a commercial vehicle ban on certain routes, and school closures and schedule changes in effect. Officials warn that the storm may be deceiving, with the potential for more trouble as it progresses, especially given the frigid temperatures.
