• A high credit score can open lots of doors, from getting you more favorable interest rates to helping you get approved for mortgages and other loans.
• It's a commonly held belief that credit cards are bad for your credit score, but in fact they can actually help boost your score in the long run — the key is to use them responsibly.
• The two biggest factors that determine your credit score are payment history and credit utilization.
• As long as you're not spending more than you can afford to pay off each month and you make your payments on time, using credit cards can have a positive impact on your credit score in the long term.
• See Business Insider's list of the best rewards credit cards you can get »

An excellent credit score can open doors. The three-digit number that determines your creditworthiness can affect your interest rate and application approvals for loans of all kinds. Whether you want to secure a low interest rate on your mortgage or receive the best available offer on your next auto loan, a good credit score can be your ticket to success.

Since credit scores can be so important, you may have your doubts about opening a new credit card. Opening a new credit card can help you earn a sign-up bonus of points, miles, or cash back, or take advantage of an introductory APR offer to pay down a large purchase, but it's a widely held belief that credit cards can also wreak havoc on your credit score.

Luckily, though, this isn't true; in fact, using credit cards responsibly by paying your balances off in full each month can actually improve your credit score in the long run.

Will a new credit card affect my credit score?

The mere act of opening a new credit card should not affect your credit score dramatically. It may drop a few points when you initially open the card — because the hard inquiry a credit issuer will pull on your credit report does have a small effect on your score — but it will rebound quickly if you make on-time payments.

You should expect a drop of between 5 to 10 points due to the hard credit inquiry required when opening a credit card. 5 to 10 points will not significantly damage your loan application prospects in the immediate future.

In fact, opening a credit card and managing it responsibly can lead to a higher credit score in the long run. With this new credit card, you have the opportunity to make on-time payments and maintain a low balance. Take advantage of the chance to prove yourself to future creditors.

If you're still on the fence, consider the various factors that make up your credit score

Your credit score is made up of a variety of factors in your credit history. A new credit card application will have some effect on your credit score, but other factors in your credit history may have a bigger effect.

Here's what determines your credit score. The percentage indicates how heavily each factor is weighted into your score.

Payment history — 35%

On-time payments are absolutely critical to maintaining an excellent credit score. If you miss multiple payments, then you could face a big hit to your credit score.

Credit card utilization rate — 30% 

Your credit utilization rate, also referred to as "amounts owed" or "debt-to-credit ratio," shows how much spending you are putting on your credit cards each month. Most experts recommend keeping this rate under 30% of your total available credit.

That means if you have a credit limit of $10,000 across all your cards, you'd ideally put no more than $3,000 of spending on your credit card. A lower credit utilization rate shows potential creditors that you can manage your credit responsibly.

Age of accounts — 15% 

Older credit accounts are beneficial to your credit score. Choosing to keep older accounts open can help to keep the average age of your accounts higher. The length can show creditors that you have experience managing your credit without any problems.

Credit mix — 10% 

More types of credit accounts can lead to a higher credit score. For example, a mortgage and two credit cards is a different type of mix than a mortgage and an auto loan. Lenders like to see variety in the types of credit you can effectively manage.

Hard credit inquiries — 10%

A hard credit inquiry, which happens when you apply for a new credit card or another type of loan, can cause your score to drop a few points. This is especially true if you have a lot of hard inquiries in a short amount of time. 

How to manage your credit cards responsibly

It's completely possible to maintain a high credit score while enjoying the benefits of multiple rewards credit cards — just ask Personal Finance Insider contributor Holly Johnson, who has 26 credit cards and a credit score above 800.

The most important part of managing your credit cards responsibly to pay your balance in full each month. The key is to use a credit card like a debit card, which means never spending more than you can afford to pay off. If you need to carry a balance, rewards credit cards probably aren't for you — you'd be much better off choosing a card with a balance transfer offer and/or an intro APR offer so you can pay down your debt while avoiding mounting interest. 

Read more:4 signs you probably shouldn't be using a credit card

The other key aspect to using credit cards responsibly is to make on-time payments As you ramp up your travel rewards game, you may have more credit cards to keep track of. I highly recommend setting up an automatic payments for each of your credit cards. Even if you plan to log in and pay off your card each month, it's entirely possible to forget a due date. After all, we are only human. I've been saved by an automatic payment more times than I care to admit.

Which rewards card should you start with?

Say it again with me: A credit card will not destroy your credit score if you pay off your balance in full each month and never spend more than you can afford to. In fact, if managed responsibly, a credit card can be a tool to improve your credit score.

If you're able to use credit responsibly, you can reap the rewards of cash back, travel points, or airline and hotel rewards.

Here are some of our top rewards credit card recommendations:

• Best no-annual-fee card:Chase Freedom Unlimited
• Best cash-back back:Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express
• Best premium travel rewards card:Chase Sapphire Reserve
• Simplest to use:Capital One® Venture® Rewards Credit Card

Learn about more of the top rewards credit cards for every type of user »

• More credit card coverage
• What's the best airline credit card?
• The best cash-back credit cards
• Southwest credit card review
• Best rewards credit cards

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: How Ocean Spray cranberries go from the bog to your Thanksgiving table

• I'm from the US but I live in the Netherlands with my Dutch boyfriend. When we decided to buy a house, a colleague urged me to get life insurance. He'd lost his wife young, and her life insurance allowed him to keep his home.
• Turns out, like many Dutch mortgage companies, ours required us to buy life insurance anyway. It ensures that the bank gets paid if one of us dies unexpectedly.
• I don't even notice the 9 euros coming out of my bank account every month — it's worth every penny.
• Life insurance is a smart buy for every homeowner. Get a life insurance quote today from Policygenius »

"Get life insurance. It was the only thing that kept me in the house."

That's what my colleague and friend said to me when I told him my boyfriend and I were buying a house.

He said it with such intensity that went I home that evening and told my boyfriend: "We should get life insurance."

I was 33, healthy, and had given exactly zero consideration to life insurance. In fact, the only thing I knew about life insurance was that it was a common plot point in crime novels, where someone would murder their spouse for a huge sum of money.

My colleague was like me, young and healthy. Then his wife died of breast cancer, leaving him to take care of two autistic children in a foreign country. He wrote about the experience in a memoir, "All The Time We Thought We Had."

I am originally from the United States, but I live in the Netherlands with my Dutch boyfriend and our rescue dog in a nearly 100-year-old rowhouse in the town of Delft, most famous for its blue pottery.

Neither my boyfriend nor I had any idea what we were getting into when we bought our house. I was buying in a foreign country, with rules and norms very different from the US. He was the first in his immediate family to buy a home.

In the end, the advice I got from my colleague didn't matter. Our mortgage company required us to purchase what the Dutch call "overlijdensrisicoverzekering," or term life insurance.

The Dutch are some of the most insured people in the world

Until 2018, nearly 70% of Dutch mortgages obligated their holders to take out life insurance. If you wanted a mortgage with a National Mortgage Guarantee (mortgage insurance from the national government) you had to get the insurance. It guarantees that the bank gets paid if you die.

Protect your family and assets with life insurance. Get a quote today from Policygenius »

Though it is no longer obligatory, some mortgage companies still require homebuyers to purchase life insurance. Many other companies require you to do so if you're putting down less than 20% of the house's value as a down payment.

Everyone I know who has bought a house in the past few years has taken it out. More than half of my peer group carry it, according to the Dutch Association of Insurers.

It isn't surprising. The Dutch are some of the most insured people in the world. They only spend less than Switzerland on insurance premiums every year.

The whole population carries "aansprakelijkheidsverzekering," or personal liability insurance, which is also obligatory. That will cover you if you spill coffee on a friend's laptop or if you scratch someone's car while cycling. (Should you do that while driving, you'd be covered by your obligatory car insurance.) And, of course, everyone carries health insurance, which is also mandated by law.

What our life insurance would cover

The value of our life insurance isn't an astronomical sum. It wouldn't even cover the entire cost of the mortgage. Our mortgage broker told us that we should take out an amount that would bring the value of the mortgage down to an amount each of us could pay by ourselves.

Essentially, the life insurance just offsets what one of us contributes to the household. And, if something happens to both of us, our parents won't be stuck with the bill.

Like with many things during our house-buying process, my Dutch boyfriend easily filled out the multipage life insurance form. His medical history was stored electronically and transferred between his primary care providers.

Meanwhile, no one in my family could even agree how old I was when I broke my arm as a child, let alone every time I'd needed blood drawn or required medicine that I had to take for longer than a week.

In the end, after some supplemental forms and a phone call to the insurance company to reassure them that I had only moved to the Netherlands seven years before and not been living in a cave from birth until my mid-twenties, we were able to secure the insurance.

The premium is small, only 9 euros a month (about $10). I barely notice it when it is automatically deducted from my bank account. The value of the policy decreases over time as we pay down the amount that we owe on the house. It ends in 20 years, together with our mortgage.

I don't think about it very often, but when I do, it's to encourage other people I know who are buying houses to purchase it. I recommend it for the same reason my colleague encouraged me: You don't want to have to worry about money while you're grieving.

Life insurance can protect your family if the unthinkable happens. Get a quote today from Policygenius »

• More personal finance coverage
• 4 reasons to open a high-yield savings account while interest rates are down
• It took less than 10 minutes to open a high-yield cash account with Wealthfront and earn more on my savings
• How to buy a house with no money down
• When to save money in high-yield savings
• Best rewards credit cards
• 7 reasons you may need life insurance, even if you think you don't

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: On Giving Tuesday, see how Bill Gates and Warren Buffett are changing the world like no other humans in history

• Lime has lost yet another executive amid a year marked by C-suite shakeups. 
• Paloma Castro Martinez, formerly the startup's head of international communications, left this month, according to her LinkedIn profile. She joined the company during its massive expansion of 2018. 
• Other departures this year have included Lime's founding CEO, other communications managers, and human resources leaders. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

A high-profile communications executive at Lime, brought on in 2018 amid a massive expansion by the electric scooter startup, has departed the company.

Paloma Castro Martinez is no longer Lime's head of international communications according to her LinkedIn profile, marking yet another departure at in a year that's been market by executive turnover for the firm. 

Martinez did not immediately respond to a request for comment about her departure. Lime did not respond to a request for comment.

In May, founder and former CEO Toby Sun stepped down from his post, relinquishing control to cofounder Brad Bao. Also lost amid the C-suite shakeup were head of communications Jack Song, human resources chief Nancy Lee, and a reported other two policy executives.

Earlier in 2019, the company lost a finance executive and another human-resources chief.

With Martinez aboard since November 2018, Lime has expanded quickly into new European markets. At the time of her hire from the French luxury powerhouse LVMH, she pointed to her background as a seasoned executive— and not a Silicon Valley veteran — as key to her arsenal to help fuel that growth, in an interview with Business Insider.

It's not clear where Martinez may be headed next. Her LinkedIn profile lists her as a managing partner at Darwin Associates, with which she was also working during her entire tenure at Lime, according to the listed dates.

In July, Lime successfully raised a fifth round of venture-capital funding, valuing the company at more than $2 billion, according to PitchBook data. As recently as August, the company was reported to be soliciting yet another round, with backers possibly including SoftBank.

However, amid a spate of disappointing initial public offerings and the epic implosion of the coworking company WeWork this year, it's not clear if the Japanese mega-fund will be as keen on investing in money-losing startups going forward.

Lime has said it expects to be profitable by an adjusted metric as soon as 2020, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Are you a Lime employee? Do you have a story to share? We want to hear from you. Get in touch with this reporter at grapier@businessinsider.com. For sensitive news tips, secure contact methods can be found here.

SEE ALSO: Lime wants to be more than a scooter startup — and it's hired an executive from one of the world's best-known luxury fashion companies to help it get there

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Apple just revealed its AirPods Pro for $249, which feature noise cancellation. Here's everything that was wrong with the $159 pair of the wireless headphones.

Digital trust is the confidence people have in a platform to protect their information and provide a safe environment for them to create and engage with content. Consumers' trust in social platforms impacts how they interact with ads, and benchmarking trust can help social platforms win ad dollars and instruct advertisers how to allocate budget effectively.

In our third annual Digital Trust Report, we evaluate consumer perception of seven major social networks – Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat, and Pinterest – across six different pillars: Security, Legitimacy, Community, User Experience, Shareability, and Relevance.

The complete 2019 Digital Trust Enterprise Edge Report is available exclusively for Business Insider Intelligence Enterprise subscribers — our corporate clients.

In addition to exclusive access to our Enterprise Edge Reports, BII Enterprise subscribers enjoy numerous perks including unlimited downloads, licensing and sharing rights, and portal integration.

Simply click here to enter your email address and obtain a FREE preview of the Digital Trust Report!

Join the conversation about this story »

• A good winter coat should keep you warm in cold weather without weighing you down. Bonus points if it looks good, too.
• If you're searching for a winter coat that will keep you warm and dry without any frills, consider picking up The North Face Metropolis III Hooded Down Parka.
  
• If you're looking for men's styles, check out our guide to the best winter coats for men.

Part of the problem with finding a satisfactory winter coat is that it's really hard to tell whether a jacket will be warm enough for the dead of winter until you're wearing it in the dead of winter. Sure, the coat might seem cozy from the comfort of a dressing room. But is it really going to stand up to subzero temps once you bring it outside?

When shopping for a winter coat, it's essential to keep your lifestyle and location in mind. Are you looking for a heavy-duty parka? Something stylish to keep you warm from the office to the train station? A full-on duffle coat for Arctic temperatures?

Regardless, winter coats are getting cooler by the second. It's certainly possible to both be warm and look stylish at the exact same time. Not every option on this list will appeal to everyone's individual aesthetic, of course, but they will all keep you warm without much of a style sacrifice. And that's pretty important.

Types of insulation:

Down: Still the most popular fill for winter coats, down is the name for the fluffy layer of under-feathers harvested from ducks and geese. That fluffiness serves a purpose: down's thousands of tiny air pockets trap and retain heat, keeping the wearer warm. It's also ultra-compressible, lightweight, and breathable. However, down loses its insulating powers when it becomes wet, and it can take a while to dry out. Plus, lower-quality down can harbor dust and debris, triggering allergies in those who are sensitive to such things. 

Water-resistant down: No down filling is completely water-resistant, but polymer-treated down is definitely better at wicking away moisture. It also tends to be very expensive and still doesn't handle dampness as effectively as synthetic insulation. 

Synthetic insulation: Made from a combination of water-resistant compressed fibers, synthetic insulation mimics down in its ability to trap warm air via tiny holes. Synthetics are often heavier than down, and they're not quite as compressible, but on the upside, they dry faster and are often significantly less expensive. Some common synthetic fills: Thinsulate, Polarguard, Thermolite, Dryloft, and Hollofil. 

Down/synthetic insulation: Coats made with a combination of down and synthetic materials either have a mix throughout, or are designed so that some areas are down-filled (like the core) and others (the arms, for example) contain synthetic insulation.

A word on fill power:

Down is rated according to fill power, which is represented by the number of cubic inches one ounce of down occupies (to test it, the down is compressed by a weight in a glass cylinder and then allowed to bounce back). The better the quality of down, the higher the fill power, with numbers typically ranging from 300 to 900. Down outerwear typically falls between 600 and 800, with anything higher considered premium.

Here are the best women's winter coats you can buy:

• Best overall: The North Face Metropolis III Hooded Down Parka
• Best affordable coat: Orolay Women's Thickened Down Jacket
• Best wool coat: L.L. Bean Lambswool Polo Coat
• Best coat with a lifetime guarantee: Patagonia Down With It Parka
• Best winter parka: Fjällräven Singi Down Jacket

Updated on 12/19/2019 by Jen Gushue: Updated prices, links, and formatting.

The best winter coat overall

You can't get much cozier than a puffer coat, and The North Face Metropolis III Hooded Down Parka is the best of the best — warm and not too puffy.

Sometimes, you just need to be warm. On those occasions, you can't go wrong with the Metropolis III Hooded Down Parka from The North Face. It's a long-length quilted goose-down puffer coat designed to fit from the neck to the knees.

Despite the description, it's not actually that puffy. The silhouette is rather sleek, albeit designed to withstand bone-chilling temperatures.

The coat comes with a cozy removable hood, which is nice if you're not a hat lover or when it isn't needed. The material is water-resistant, making it ideal for snowy weather. It's also machine washable.

The North Face coats are exceedingly well-reviewed, and the Metropolis III, in particular, has a high rating among Nordstrom shoppers.

One shopper wrote of the Metropolis II, "I've had the opportunity to wear this in temps below 15 degrees F and have been comfortably warm. I love the fact that the coat is very lightweight and even stylish as far as winter down parkas go."

Note: We previously recommended the Metropolis II. We've updated our recommendation to the newer Metropolis III, a similar parka that offers more wind resistance and uses recycled materials. However, it is slightly heavier. — Erin Mayer

Pros: Sleek design, not too bulky, super warm, water-resistant with detachable hood, improved wind resistance, use of recycled fabric

Cons: Slightly heavier than the Metropolis II, pricey

The best affordable coat

It's not often that a winter coat becomes an online sensation, but the Orolay Thickened Down Jacket is the exception.

I'm always skeptical of items that have thousands upon thousands of reviews online but that I've never heard about in real life. The Orolay Thickened Down Jacket is a hit with its fans and a number of fashion experts. Plus, I have proof people wear it — I saw a former co-worker of mine in the jacket at New York Fashion Week.

This puffer coat, which became a sensation a couple years ago, has a "downtown cool" silhouette with a high-low hemline and oversized front pockets. It's well-priced for a 90% duck down jacket that will actually keep you pretty warm. It's not the winter coat you'll want to wear in extreme cold, but it's certainly cozy enough for the walk from the train to your front door.

This coat has been compared to the more expensive options from Canada Goose, though it's worth mentioning that it is not waterproof, so you'll probably want something else for rainstorms or intense snow. — Erin Mayer

Pros: Stylish, relatively inexpensive for down, unique design

Cons: Not waterproof

The best wool winter coat

You don't need a down jacket to stay warm in winter — the wool L.L.Bean Classic Lambswool Polo Coat can do the job and provide some style, too.

If you're not a fan of puffer jackets or anything stuffed with down, wool is warm enough to withstand cold temperatures and allows for a more sophisticated look than many other materials.

The L.L.Bean Classic Lambswool Polo Coat is a 3/4-length jacket with lapels and three buttons down the front. It's a simple, timeless silhouette that will go with anything. It comes in four colors, including a fun raspberry shade of pink and traditional olive green.

"This coat is warm and comfortable," one L.L. Bean shopper wrote. "The fabric is notably good: dense but soft. The lining is very well done, with what looks like sturdy sticking. The fit was as expected, with room for a couple layers underneath." The coat is also recommended by Good Housekeeping. — Erin Mayer

Pros: Lined wool jacket warm enough for colder climates, sophisticated silhouette that goes with more formal outfits

Cons: May need to size up if you want to layer

Shop all women's winter coats at L.L. Bean

The best with lifetime guarantee

If you're tired of going coat shopping year after year, Patagonia's Down With It Parka could last you a lifetime.

On the surface, the Patagonia Down With It Parka is your average long puffer jacket. It has quilted fabric, a detachable hood, a zipper obscured by a front placket, and princess seaming along the waistline for definition.

There are a few details that make this jacket special, however. The outside is made of 100% recycled polyester. Inside, the jacket is stuffed with what the brand calls Traceable Down, which is "duck down traced from parent farm to apparel factory to help ensure the birds that supply it are not force-fed or live-plucked," according to the company

Like all Patagonia outerwear, the Down With It Parka comes with an "Ironclad Guarantee" that allows you to have the coat replaced or repaired at any time. The coat is not waterproof, but the knee-length silhouette and roomy hood will give you plenty of cover from wind, rain, and snow.

The Patagonia Down With It Parka also comes in a shorter style if you prefer something trendier. — Erin Mayer

Pros: Recycled materials, detachable hood, lifetime guarantee

Cons: Not waterproof or packable

Shop all women's winter coats at Patagonia

The best women's winter parka

Fjällräven's Singi Down Jacket has a feminine fit, classic parka style, and a rugged design that's made to last for decades.

If you're the kind of person who likes to go ski, snowshoe, or hike in the snow-covered forest, you need a more active-friendly parka that can take you where you need to go. Fjällräven's Singi Down Jacket is that parka.

Having tested this jacket myself during an intense surprise snowstorm in New York City, I stand by the protective warm and durability of this jacket, and many other happy Fjällräven fans agree with me.

Fjällräven has been making outdoor gear that can handle the extreme cold and powerful snow of Scandinavia since it was founded in 1960. Skiiers, hikers, snowshoers, and adventurers of all types love the company's outwear because it is made to last.

The G-1000 canvas fabric on the outside of the Singi jacket is made from a blend of recycled polyester and organic cotton that's durable. You can wax it down for added water-resistance or leave it bare for more breathability.

The jacket has a wealth of pockets, too, and they're roomy, so you can stuff your gloves, phone, sunglasses, and whatever else you need into them for safekeeping.

To keep you warm, Fjällräven uses a mix of 80% goose down and 20% feathers for the 600 CUIN filling. Because the Swedish company is heavily focused on sustainability, the down is responsibly sourced. That means you don't have to worry about the maltreatment of the geese who gave their feathers and down for your warmth.

You won't find real fur on this parka, either, which is a relief to animal lovers. Instead, the hood has a removable faux-fur ruff that's of much higher quality than the scraggly looking faux fur you find on cheaper coats. 

Even though the build quality is exceptional, what really makes this winter coat shine is the attention to detail. Fjällräven adds unique little touches to the design like its iconic fox design on the button snaps and arm patch. The leather zipper pulls are also imprinted with the little fox.

The shape of the jacket is surprisingly feminine, too, and it has drawcords so you can accentuate your waist and not look shapeless in the snowy weather. I love the extra details because they make the jacket stand out. The extra color options — like the deep reddish-purple garnet shade I chose — make a big difference, too.

The Singi jacket also happens to have the best hood I've ever found on a winter coat. It doesn't fall in my eyes, it stays in place, and it truly blocks out incoming snow and wind gusts. 

This parka would have been our overall pick if it wasn't for the high price tag. Still, we absolutely recommend you consider this parka if your budget allows. — Malarie Gokey

Pros: Sustainable down, rugged design, feminine fit, good color options, made to last, very warm, water-resistant

Cons: Expensive

Check out our other winter gear guides

The best winter boots for women

To test these boots, we dunked them in a tub filled with icy water and tried to make them slip on patches of ice. We wore them on cold days to see how warm they were and stepped into deep puddles on rainy days to test water resistance. We walked for miles on snowy stretches of sidewalk in New York City and waded through snowbanks in Central Park to vet these boots. Here are the best women's winter boots.

The best winter coats for men

A good winter coat will keep you warm and dry even when the snow is falling and the wind is howling. A great winter coat will keep you warm, dry, and looking good, too. Here are the best winter coats for men.

The best beanies

The word "beanie" is a catch-all that encompasses a ton of different styles, from slouchy cuts to ultra-fitted ones with a variety of embellishments and fabric variations. The sheer number of options is overwhelming, so we did the work of narrowing it down. Here are the best beanies you can buy.

The best places to buy scarves online

Your choice of scarf can make or break your comfort level in the wintertime. Opt for one that's wooly and warm and you'll be toasty. Choose a too-thin fabric and you, well, won't. Scarves are also a great opportunity to infuse a bit of personality into your winter wardrobe. And when you get bored with your outerwear, you can always pick a new scarf to mix things up. Here are the best places to buy scarves online.

The best thermal gloves

A good pair of thermal gloves can make all the difference on a cold winter day. We did the research to find the best thermal gloves you can buy to keep your hands nice and toasty for the rest of this winter and for many more winters to come. Here are our picks for the best thermal gloves.

The best places to buy winter hats for men, women, and children

Your body loses a significant portion of its heat through your head, so keep yourself warm this winter with a great winter hat. The winter hat makers we're featuring offer hats in myriad styles, so once you've narrowed down the type of winter cap you need, you should be able to find several fine options from each brand. Here are the best places to buy winter hats.

The best mittens you can buy

Mittens keep your hands warmer than gloves, so if it's cold where you live, work, or play, slip a pair on and keep the chill out. Here are the best mittens to keep you warm.

The best snow pants for men, women, and kids

Make the most of that winter wonderland this year by keeping yourself warm and dry with well-made snow pants when you're skiing, sledding, or generally romping about in the snow. Here are the best snow pants.

• The $1 trillion asset manager Natixis recently surveyed two dozen strategists, economists, and fund managers on their outlook and investing recommendations for 2020. 
• They distilled their views to a ranking of asset classes that they find most and least desirable right now. 
• Click here for more BI Prime stories.

The end of a spectacular year across asset classes has investors wondering what might happens next. 

To help answer this question, Natixis surveyed 24 strategists, economists, and portfolio managers to glean their investment preferences for the year ahead. The firm manages just over $1 trillion in assets.  

Stocks ranked highly across the board as a place to invest in 2020. David Lafferty, the chief market strategist, attributed this to the fact that recession fears have faded and investors are more willing to venture into riskier waters.

European stocks were seen in a much more favorable light following the Dec. 12 UK election that provided a clearer pathway for Brexit. However, the Natixis experts were mostly neutral on US stocks due to valuation concerns and the uncertainty surrounding the presidential election.

In order to further distill these views into concrete takeaways for clients, Natixis formulated a bull-bear score from its experts' responses.

Each asset class was first ranked on a scale of 0-10, with 0-4 representing bearish sentiment, 5 as neutral, and 5-10 as bullish. Afterwards, the weighted sum of bullish minus bearish ratings was calculated to arrive at the final bull-bear score.  

The top-five outliers on either side are listed below, ranked from the least bullish/bearish score to the most bullish/bearish. 

SEE ALSO: 14 top Wall Street experts unveil their stock-market forecasts for 2020 — and tell you where to put your money

The Most Bullish Scores

5. Eurozone Mid/Small Cap Equity

Bull-Bear Score: 10

Source: Natixis

4. Private Equity

Bull-Bear Score: 11

Source: Natixis

3. Non-US Developed Equity

Bull-Bear Score: 11

Source: Natixis

2. Eurozone Large Cap Equity

Bull-Bear Score: 12

Source: Natixis

1. Emerging market equity

Bull-Bear Score: 13

Source: Natixis

The Most Bearish Scores

5. European High Yield Bond

Bull-Bear Score: -10

Source: Natixis

4. European High Quality/Sovereign Bond

Bull-Bear Score: -16

Source: Natixis

3. US High Yield Bond

Bull-Bear Score: -18

Source: Natixis

2. Bank Loan

Bull-Bear Score: -20

Source: Natixis

1. Cryptocurrency

Bull-Bear Score: -33

Source: Natixis

Don't miss:

14 top Wall Street experts unveil their stock-market forecasts for 2020 — and tell you where to put your money

• From smart speakers to voice assistants to podcasts, audio-only products and content have become much more prevalent in recent years.
• But despite the prominence of the medium, venture capitalists have been slow to invest in audio and voice technology.
• Still, Marc Ladin, a general partner at voice-focused venture capital firm VoicePunch, said he's beginning to see fellow investors show more interest in audio, and predicts more series A and B investments in 2020.
• Click here for more BI Prime articles.

It's been almost five years since Amazon launched its voice assistant Alexa — shortly after "Serial" revolutionized the world of podcasting — but with the exception of corporate accelerators like the Alexa Fund and Google Assistant Investments, there's still relatively little venture capital money in audio.

That's likely to change in 2020, according Marc Ladin, a general partner at a venture capital firm focused specifically on voice technology. 

Ladin launched his firm VoicePunch in January as a way to provide a dedicated investment opportunity for voice startups apart from corporate funds.

VoicePunch has seen increased investment competition throughout the year in pre-seed, seed, and series A rounds, but venture capitalists are still behind when it comes to audio, Ladin said.

"As investors, we're always trying to de-risk our investments," Ladin said. "Voice could be risky because it's just coming into the mainstream, but we don't see it as risky at all. We see it as an opportunity."

VoicePunch invests in audio tech along two primary axes: the infrastructure level and the application level. 

Voice infrastructure refers to companies that support the back ends of voice apps, such as Vaux, a startup that uses artificial intelligence to compress voice data in order to make it easier to send, store, and protect. On the application side, VoicePunch has invested in companies like Home Service, an AI chatbot and voice assistant designed to serve as a concierge for vacation rental services like Airbnb and Vrbo.

When investing in voice infrastructure, Ladin said he considers a product's potential for longterm success. But when it comes to applications, companies with narrow focuses that can generate small returns quickly are more attractive. 

"We don't like some of the startups that are applying too broadly, where the time they would need to gain traction as the market catches up is too long," Ladin said.

Voice startups need to be unique and flexible to attract investors

While VoicePunch is looking for niche investment opportunities, its partners meet with about six startups per week and have seen hundreds of pitch decks over the course of the year, Ladin said. 

Nearly all of those decks start with references to the growing size of the voice market, but Ladin said this is often redundant to any investor who is already considering audio.

In order to attract investors, voice startups should demonstrate the ways in which their voice experience provides unique value to customers off the bat, Ladin said. Voice founders should also be prepared to show they're capable of shifting their focus as the market grows and changes, which is one of the reasons Vaux caught Ladin's attention.

The company started with a focus on music as part of the Techstars Music accelerator at the start of the year, but pivoted to voice compression when it noticed a demand in that space. 

Many voice apps start off raising about $1 million or $2 million in their first round of investments, which they can then double or triple in subsequent fundraising efforts, Ladin said. 

Increased use of headphones and celebrity endorsements could lead to more investments in voice in 2020

Between voice assistants, smart speakers, and podcasts, audio has helped to define the tech scene in the past few years. As these products continue to rise in popularity, they drive consumers away from screens to voice-only platforms, Ladin said.

"We see voice as being one of the biggest interface shifts in the last 20 years, the last big one being mobile," Ladin said.

In 2020 and beyond, advancements to wearables like Apple's AirPods Pro could help accelerate voice use even further.

Apple's wearables business grew to the size of a Fortune 200 company this year, bringing in more than $5.5 billion of the company's $53 billion in net sales during the third quarter of 2019, up 50% from the same period last year. 

"Everyone is going to be walking around with this voice in their ear," Ladin said. "There's no escaping it." 

Amazon and Bose have also both equipped glasses with audio capabilities this year. Advertisers are increasingly looking to audio to market their products and brands, although smart speaker users are a challenging demographic to reach.

Companies like Facebook and Amazon are investing in celebrity endorsements to market their audio products, which Ladin predicts will drive mainstream audiences to audio. Kim Kardashian West, Jennifer Lopez, and Alex Rodriguez have appeared in ads for Facebook Portal, and Alexa users can use Samuel L. Jackson's voice as their assistant.

As audio devices and voice applications head in the direction of smartphones, more tech design talent will enter the industry and more startups will reach A and B rounds of investment, Ladin predicted.

"It seems like the market's heading in our direction," Ladin said.

SEE ALSO: An iHeartMedia exec says podcasts are 'the new script' for Hollywood and breaks down the audio giant's TV and movie deals

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns explains why country music is universal

• An online database exposed the names, Facebook ID, and phone numbers of more than 267 million people, according to data security researcher Bob Diachenko and Comparitech.
• The database was available online without a password, exposing the sensitive personal data to anyone who accessed it.
• Diachenko traced the database back to Vietnam but could not identify exactly how the data had been accessed or what it was being used for. According to Diachenko, the majority of the people impacted are from the United States.
• Diachenko and Comparitech speculated that the data could be used for spam messaging and phishing campaigns and contacted the internet service provider that was hosting the database.
• The database is no longer available but the data was reportedly posted to an online forum before the source was removed. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Cybersecurity researchers are reporting that more than 267 million Facebook users had their personal data exposed by an online database that collected their names, Facebook IDs, and phone numbers. The database was available online without a password to anyone who accessed it for about two weeks, according to Comparitech and data security researcher Bob Diachenko.

Diachenko said records belonging to 267,140,436 people were exposed, and most of the people impacted are from the United States. People who are identified in the database could be targeted by spam messages or other scam attempts using their name and phone number. 

Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The database first appeared online on December 4. On December 12 the data was shared publicly on a forum for hackers. Believing the database was a part of a criminal enterprise, Diachenko says he reported it to the internet service provider on December 14. As of today the database is no longer available online, but that doesn't necessarily mean that the exposed data wasn't copied elsewhere.

To avoid having their information taken from their profile, Comparitech recommends that Facebook users change their privacy settings to only allow friends to see their posts and enable to setting to omit their profile from search engine results.

Diachenko traced the database to Vietnam, but couldn't specify exactly how the information had been obtained. Comparitech said the database could have stolen the information from Facebook's developer API, which shares some sensitive information with app creators.

However, Facebook removed phone number information from its API in April 2018 following the Cambridge Analytica scandal. That would mean that the numbers included in the database are more than 18 months-old. Alternatively, the creators of the database could have used automated bots to pull the information from publicly visible Facebook pages.

Facebook has been overhauling its approach to user data in the aftermath of the Cambridge Analytica scandal. In 2015, Cambridge Analytica created a basic personality quiz for Facebook and used its access to Facebook's developer API to obtain the personal data of 87 million Facebook users. The company then used that information to create voter profiles for Donald Trump's presidential campaign and the pro-Brexit Leave campaign.

Following an investigation by the Federal Trade Commission, Facebook was fined $5 billion for mishandling user data and the settlement agreement imposed new regulations on the social media platform earlier this year.

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Apple just released iOS 13.2 with 60 new emoji and emoji variations. Here's how everyday people submit their own emoji.

• At least one person was killed and two others were shot Thursday morning in Westerly, Rhode Island, authorities told localmedia.
• The conditions of the surviving victims are unclear, as are the whereabouts of the shooter.
• The local school district announced that all public schools were placed on lockdown.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

At least one person was killed and two others were shot Thursday morning at an apartment complex in Westerly, Rhode Island, state police told localmedia.

It's unclear what condition the surviving victims are in or whether the shooter is in custody. Insider could not immediately reach local authorities.

Rhode Island State Police told the Providence Journal that the incident occurred at 122 Cross St., the address of a federally subsidized senior housing complex called Babcock Village. 

The Westerly school district announced on Facebook that all public schools were placed on lockdown.

Rep. David Cicilline, who represents Rhode Island, tweeted that he was "closely monitoring the situation in Westerly." 

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: How Ocean Spray cranberries go from the bog to your Thanksgiving table

• As President Trump became the third president in US history to be impeached Wednesday evening, he was telling a crowd of supporters how great America's F-35 pilots look.
• This past year, Trump has repeatedly described military members, both generals and troops, as "better-looking than Tom Cruise."
• The president, a former reality TV star and beauty pageant owner, has also repeatedly praised military personnel for their looks, saying often that they could be movie stars.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

On Wednesday evening, just as President Donald Trump became the third president in US history to be impeached, he was telling a crowd of his supporters in Michigan about how good America's F-35 stealth fighter pilots look.

"You've got to see them," Trump said. "We have the F-35s. It's stealth. And, I was at one of the areas where they're displaying it, and I went up to the pilots, and, honestly, they're better-looking than Tom Cruise."

"Good movie," he added, potentially referring to Top Gun, the 1986 classic starring Cruise as Lt. Pete "Maverick" Mitchell. "Good guy too, by the way."

"The face is equal, maybe slightly better. The body's bigger and stronger. They can definitely fight. They're the real deal," the president said.

"These guys are so good looking I said you could be a movie star go to Hollywood," he continued.

This particular part of Trump's rally speech happened at the exact moment the House of Representatives was approving the first articles of impeachment for alleged abuse of power, The New York Times reported.

Cruise stars in long-awaited sequel set to be released in summer 2020, and will be flying an F/A-18 Super Hornet— not an F-35C Lightning II.

This is not the first time Trump has expressed an interest in having warfighters that are "better looking than Tom Cruise."

During his first cabinet meeting of the year, Trump said: "When I became president, I had a meeting at the Pentagon with lots of generals. They were like from a movie, better-looking than Tom Cruise — and stronger."

In that same meeting, Trump said he thinks he would have made a good general. "I think I would've been a good general, but who knows," the former reality TV star and real estate mogul said at the time.

Trump has also repeatedly commented on the looks of other military members without mentioning Cruise but while still mentioning the film industry.

At a rally in July, he talked about some unnamed military officers he met with to discuss the fight against ISIS. "These guys are central casting — like from a movie, except better," Trump said, according to CNN. "They're stronger, bigger, tougher, meaner, and actually better-looking in a certain way."

And, then in August, when the president was praising Army Pfc. Glendon Oakley for his heroic actions during a mass shooting in El Paso, Texas, he said: "So you'll be a movie star, the way you look.  That'll be — hey, that'll be next.  Who knows, right?"

SEE ALSO: Trump tells troops that future US supercarriers are 'going to use steam' in a weird rant about an obsession he can't seem to shake

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: We can thank the US military for the smelliest weapon in the world

• It's easy to add an attachment in the Reminders app on your iPhone with iOS 13. 
• You may want to add photos or documents to certain reminders, so you can remember to send an attachment to someone or reference it in a meeting. 
• You'll also need to make sure iCloud is turned on for Reminders and Photos to add attachments. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Reminders is a handy app on your iPhone for writing yourself notes that you need to remember later. You can set a reminder to pop up at a certain time, when you arrive at a certain place, or even when you're messaging a certain person.

Recently, with the release of iOS 13, the Reminders app has gotten a huge upgrade. You can now have multiple lists of reminders, as well as add subtasks, flag certain reminders, or share notes to collaborate with other people.

One of the helpful new features on the app is that it allows you to attach photos or documents to a reminder. This is great for quick, easy access if you want to remind yourself to send an item to somebody, or if you'll need it for reference at a meeting. 

Note that this feature only works if you have iCloud turned on, and if you have already updated the Reminders app with iOS 13. 

If you haven't, a little "Update" button will appear next to your lists in the home screen of the app. Press it, and then you should be able to use the new features.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone 11 (From $699.99 at Best Buy)

How to add an attachment in Reminders on your iPhone

First, make sure your iCloud is turned on. Then you'll be able to add an attachment in the Reminders app. 

1. Open Settings and tap your name at the top, with your Apple ID. 

2. Tap iCloud and make sure it's turned on for Reminders and Photos. 

3. Open the Reminders app.

4. Select the list where you'd like to create your reminder.

5. Press the plus button in the lower left-hand corner to create a new reminder.

6. Title your reminder, then tap the camera icon on the right above the keyboard.

7. Select the option to either take a photo, select from your photo library, or scan a document. Then follow the on-screen instructions to add the media.

8. If you are satisfied with your reminder, tap Done in the upper right corner.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

• 'Why won't my iPhone update to iOS 13?': How to troubleshoot iPhone updating issues in 4 ways

• How to get dark mode on Instagram for an iPhone using iOS 13

• iOS 13 lets you automatically close tabs in the Safari browser on an iPhone after a set period of time — here's how to do it

• iOS 13 has a new feature that limits the data usage on your iPhone — here's how to use Low Data Mode

• How to copy and paste using gestures on an iPhone with iOS 13, and edit text in an instant

SEE ALSO: The best iPhone for every type of person and budget

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: Watch Elon Musk unveil his latest plan for conquering Mars

• Tilray shares briefly fell below $17 per share on Thursday, slipping below the company's initial public offering price for the first time ever.
• So far in 2019, Tilray shares have shed more than 75% of their value. It's a sharp contrast from the company's 2018 performance, which saw it surge 315% between its July IPO and year-end.
• The weak performance is in line with the entire cannabis sector, which has struggled in 2019.
• Traders betting against the industry, however, have made sizable gains. 
• Watch Tilray trade live on Markets Insider.

Shares of Tilray fell to a record intraday low of $16.92 on Thursday morning, briefly slipping below the company's $17 initial public offering price for the first time since listing in July 2018.

The popular cannabis stock has lost more than 75% this year through Wednesday's close, weighed down by weak earnings as well as waning investor confidence in the cannabis sector. 

It's a stark contrast from the cannabis stock's performance in 2018, when — after its IPO in July— it surged more than 1,100% to an all-time high of $214 per share on September 19. Even though Tilray didn't hold onto the incredible gains for long, the company still ended 2018 up 315% from its IPO price.

But in 2019, pressure on Tilray stock began to mount. In January, Tilray's post-initial public offering lockup period expired, sending shares down. 

The entire cannabis sector has been weighed down as well. In 2019 shares of major cannabis companies such as Canopy Growth, Cronos, Aurora Cannabis, Hexo and Tilray have been battered by increased competition in the industry, backlash over vaping-related illnesses and deaths, and regulatory pressure in the US and Canada. 

As the stocks of popular cannabis companies have fallen, short sellers betting against the industry have profited. Traders who have placed short bets on the cannabis sector have made $993 million in mark-to-market gains year-to-date through December 18 according to data from S3 Partners, a financial analytics firm.

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: A big-money investor in juggernauts like Facebook and Netflix breaks down the '3rd wave' firms that are leading the next round of tech disruption

• Disney World and Disneyland saw a lot of changes throughout the 2010s, welcoming new rides and attractions and saying goodbye to some as well.
• Whereas some rides like the Maelstrom were simply renovated and redecorated, others — such as The Studio Backlot Tour — were completely demolished. 
• The Great Movie Ride in Walt Disney World, for example, closed in 2017 to make room for Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway.
• Tower of Terror in Disneyland, on the other hand, was completely altered.
• Visit Insider's homepage for more stories.

Fans were sad to say goodbye to Mickey's Toontown Fair in 2011.

The small land, located within Magic Kingdom, was home to meet-and-greet areas, character-themed rides, and playgrounds, among other attractions. Still, the most beloved attractions in the land were two walk-through replicas of Mickey and Minnie's cartoon homes.

Those who visited were able to tour Mickey's living room, bedroom, kitchen, and garden, among other areas. In Minnie's house, you could see everything from her kitchen to her living room.

The area closed permanently on February 12, 2011 so that Disney World could expand a new area of Fantasyland. According to Attractions Magazine, Disney World even held a VIP party for employees that day after Magic Kingdom closed for the night.

But some rides from Toontown fared better than others.

A Goofy-themed roller coaster called The Barnstormer, for example, wasn't entirely demolished. Instead, the ride — which was themed like an airplane class taught by Goofy — was temporarily shut down on February 12, 2011.

The roller coaster was later renamed The Barnstormer featuring the Great Goofini, and now looks a lot different than it once did. Goofy no longer acts as a flight instructor, but instead stars as a circus performer riding a stunt airplane. 

At The American Idol Experience, parkgoers could take part in a real-life version of the popular television show.

Once located in Disney's Hollywood Studios, the American Idol Experience invited visitors to audition for park producers early in the morning. Chosen guests would then undergo hair and makeup transformations before spending time with a vocal coach.

Later on in the day, participants would compete during a live show for other park attendees, and winners were awarded passes to cut the lines during auditions for the actual "American Idol" television show. 

This lasted until August 30, 2014, when the American Idol Experience was permanently shut down to make room for new attractions.

The Studio Backlot Tour allowed Disney World guests to experience the magic of filmmaking firsthand.

Disney's Studio Backlot Tour was one of the first rides built for Hollywood Studios in 1989 — and it changed drastically over the years. Towards the end of its run, each tour lasted 30-minutes long, and began with four volunteers taking part in a live special-effects demonstration.

The attraction featured tram cars that drove through backstage areas of the theme park.

During the ride's heyday, park visitors were able to see everything from actual movie sets to the working Disney costume department while on the tour. But in its final years, much of the back lot had been taken over by other attractions.

Many people remember the tour through "Catastrophe Canyon," Disney World's last-standing film set.

After arriving on set in their tram cars, visitors would sit and view an imitation earthquake scene play out. Not only would the car shake, but a giant tanker would explode and soak the audience. Fake power lines would fall, and a fake flash flood would drench the scene.

Unfortunately, the dramatic attraction was closed permanently in September 2014, likely to help Disney rid the theme park of its former old-Hollywood aesthetic.

Up until 2014, Epcot's World Showcase featured a thrilling ride called the Maelstrom.

The boat ride was located in Epcot's Norway pavilion, and took parkgoers on a whimsical journey filled with trolls and Norse mythology. It was designed to help visitors "seek the spirit of Norway," according to the Orlando Sentinel.

But despite its loyal fanbase, the ride was closed permanently on October 5, 2014. It's since been replaced with Frozen Ever After, an animatronics ride based on the hit film "Frozen."

For almost 15 years, a 122-foot-tall sorcerer's hat was the main focal point of Disney World's Hollywood Studios.

According to AllEars, the structure was first built in 2001 as part of Disney World's 100 Years of Magic Celebration. It was inspired by the celestial blue hat worn by Sorcerer Mickey in the 1940 film "Fantasia."

The larger-than-life accessory was originally home to interactive kiosks that taught parkgoers about Walt Disney's life, but was taken over by pin-trading stands and merchandise booths by 2003.

Disney World began to deconstruct the hat in January 2015, and completed the job by February 2015. Like other attractions in the park, it was removed to match the changing image of Hollywood Studios.

The Magic of Disney Animation welcomed visitors until 2015.

While at Hollywood Studios, this art-based attraction provided a relaxing escape for visitors of all ages.

Inside, parkgoers could receive art tips from actual Disney animators.

The tour began in a theater filled with Mickey-shaped drawing stations. There, a Disney animator worked alongside Mushu from "Mulan" to teach visitors how to draw popular characters.

Real Disney animations — from whichever movie had recently been released — were also displayed in glass cases throughout the studio. And when not drawing or viewing art, visitors could partake in meet and greets with characters like Baymax from "Big Hero 6."

Unfortunately for fans, the attraction closed for good on July 12, 2015.

Though parkgoers loved it, Captain EO was removed from parks during the 2010s.

Captain EO was a 3D attraction first brought to Disneyland in 1986. The film starred Michael Jackson as Captain EO, who worked on a space ship and brought the gift of music to "The Supreme Leader."

Though the attraction only remained in Disneyland until 1996, it was later brought back in 2010 as a tribute to Jackson after his death. It was also brought to Disney World, Disneyland Paris, and Tokyo Disneyland.

But despite the film's cult following, Captain EO closed permanently in Disneyland on December 6, 2015. It's since been replaced by the Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival, which pairs three short films with special effects and 3D glasses.

Lights, Motors, Action! was brought to Disney World in 2005 after first being shown at Disneyland Paris.

The daring stunt show stuck around long after the Happiest Celebration on Earth event ended in 2006, which celebrated the 50th anniversary of Disneyland.

Each performance lasted 40 minutes long, and featured high-speed car chases, motorcycle tricks, and jet-ski stunts. Famous Disney characters also made appearances in the show, including Herbie the Lovebug and Lightning McQueen from "Cars."

But to make room for new "Star Wars" and "Toy Story" attractions, Disney chose to end the show on April 2, 2016.

The "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" Movie Set Adventure made park guests feel as small as insects.

The playground was inspired by the 1989 film, and once featured 30-foot tall grass, 40-foot-tall bumblebees, and a 52-foot-tall garden hose that sprayed visitors with water, according to WDW Info.

There were also larger-than-life cans of Play Doh and giant rolls of film, which doubled as climbing walls and slides, in the playground.

Sadly for fans, the playground's larger-than-life features were demolished starting April 2, 2016 to make room for the upcoming Star Wars Galaxy's Edge land.

Streets of America was previously a respite for people who spent the day on thrill-seeking rides in Hollywood Studios.

Because Hollywood Studios was originally designed to honor the magic of moviemaking, Disney created a backlot that resembled streets from famous American cities, like New York and San Francisco.

There wasn't much to do on the Streets of America — as every building was fake or locked — but the area still made parkgoers feel as though they'd been transported to another place. It also provided great photo ops, and a relaxing environment tucked away from the park's rides.

But according to Yesterland, a blog about retired Disney attractions, the Streets of America closed for good on April 2, 2016, and has since been replaced by the giant Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge land.

In California, Disneyland said goodbye to "For The First Time In Forever: A Musical Sing-Along."

After "Frozen" hit theaters on November 27, 2013, the film became a worldwide phenomenon. This inspired Disney to introduce "Frozen"-themed attractions, including a sing-along stage production, in five different theme parks around the world.

In Disneyland specifically, the park hosted a "Frozen Fun" event, which included "For The First Time In Forever: A Musical Sing-Along,"starting January 7, 2015. The musical outlasted the event, and continued to hold performances until April 2016.

By April 26, however, Disneyland halted performances permanently, and welcomed Mickey's PhilharMagic in its place.

Even after being renamed, Hollywood Studios still featured a fake water tower that read: Disney MGM Studios.

The MGM Studios water tower, also known as the "Earffel Tower," once served as a recognizable landmark signifying your arrival at the movie-inspired theme park. It was first built in 1988.

Even after the park was renamed Hollywood Studios, the tower — adorned with Mickey ears — stood standing. But in January 2016, Disney World announced the 130-foot-tall landmark would be taken down.

By April 29, 2016, it followed attractions like Lights, Motors, Action! and the Streets of America by being removed from the park permanently.

Tower of Terror stood as a landmark of Disneyland's California Adventure.

Disneyland welcomed the attraction — which was first featured at Disney World — in 2004. Like its twin ride on the East Coast, the Tower of Terror was found inside a tall building called The Hollywood Tower Hotel, which was designed to look decrepit.

Parkgoers who wished to ride would first enter an eerie hotel lobby, which was covered in cobwebs and dust. They'd then be seated in an elevator-like car, which flung riders up and down in a thrilling fashion. 

The entire ride was inspired by the 1960s television show "The Twilight Zone," though parkgoers didn't have to be familiar with it before riding.

By 2017, the beloved ride had been completely renovated into a new attraction called Guardians of the Galaxy — Mission: Breakout!

In July 2016, news outlets began to report that Disneyland had plans to revamp the Tower of Terror ride into a "Guardians of the Galaxy"-themed attraction.

As NBC Los Angeles reported at the time, many Disney fans were devastated by the news— some shared their frustration on Facebook, while others at Comic-Con reportedly booed concept art depicting the renovated attraction.

Despite protests from fans, the Marvel-inspired ride opened on May 27, 2017. And when Insider's Kirsten Acuna visited in July of that year, she described the experience as a "much-needed and fun update to a ride that may not have been relatable to younger generations anymore."

The Great Movie Ride epitomized the movie-set aesthetic of Hollywood Studios until 2017.

The ride first opened in 1989, and was built within a replica of the famous Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Even the exterior featured celebrity signatures and hand prints in a cement walkway — just like the California destination.

Once inside, park visitors would wait in a "theater lobby" filled with real film props and silent films. They'd later embark on a 22-minute-long ride through some of Hollywood's most famous scenes from movies like "Casablanca,""Fantasia," and "Alien." 

Unfortunately for fans, the Great Movie Ride was closed on August 13, 2017. In its place, Disney is creating its first-ever Mickey Mouse ride called Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway; it's set to open on March 4, 2020.

In 2018, Disneyland's Paradise Pier was renamed and remodeled to represent the Pixar franchise.

Disney announced the change in August 2017, and confirmed that the renovated area would represent numerous Pixar films, including "The Incredibles,""Toy Story," and "Inside Out." Though some welcomed the change, others noted that it would alter the park's California-inspired aesthetic.

The renovated area reopened on June 23, 2018, and introduced new versions of beloved rides. For example, the California Screamin' roller coaster is now the Incredicoaster. 

• Read more:
• 11 vintage photos of Disneyland's opening day in 1955 that will make you wish you were there
• 14 vintage photos of Disneyland behind the scenes that will make you see the theme park in a whole new light
• 31 photos of old Disney World attractions we wish would come back
• Disney's Animal Kingdom is filled with hidden-gem wedding venues. Here's what they look like.

Apple is deepening its financial services play as a means of invigorating revenue, and its expertise could make it a legitimate threat to legacy players. Google's platform-agnostic approach, wide international penetration, and top talent position it as a hub with unrivaled global reach beyond just consumer payments. And Amazon — which has eaten up market share in every industry it's touched, and now has its sights on financial services — could swiftly undercut legacy players.

In The Tech Companies In Financial Services report, Business Insider Intelligence will examine the moves that Apple, Google, and Amazon are making to gain a larger foothold in the global financial services industry. We will then detail each tech company's threat to incumbents and outline potential next steps based on their existing moves in the financial services sphere.

The companies mentioned in the report include: Apple, Amazon, Google, Goldman Sachs, Mastercard, Barclaycard, Citi, Chase, Capital One, Paytm, and PhonePe.

Here are some key takeaways from the report:

• Apple's expertise in consumer-facing tech products makes it a legitimate threat to legacy players. Its next move could be a debit card or PFM app, both of which would be cohesive with its existing offerings.
• Google's money movement and commerce services form a payments hub with unrivaled global reach. Google could pursue global expansion by modifying its offerings in other markets like it did in India, pursuing Europe, and even delving into digital remittances.
• Amazon is an expert disruptor — and it has its sights set on the financial services industry next. Amazon could develop checking and savings accounts, bring Amazon Pay in-store, and white-label its Amazon Go store technology to deepen its financial services footprint.

In full, the report:

• Outlines the threat posed by Apple, Amazon, and Google to legacy financial players.
• Identifies each tech giant's strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats moving further into financial services.
• Discusses each company's moves in financial services and their anticipated next steps in the space.

Join the conversation about this story »

• A high-quality treadmill accommodates a broad range of speeds and inclines, adjusts quickly, offers plenty of workout programs, and keeps you coming back. 
• I like the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill because it utilizes the iFit interactive trainer's library of more than 1,500 workouts, folds easily to free up space, and has excellent speakers.
• Though it's much more expensive than other treadmills (currently $2,879 on Amazon), the price covers full assembly, a two-year warranty on labor, as well as a lifetime warranty on the drive motor and frame

I live in Michigan where for seven months a year, the weather is terrible for running. In the summer, when it's supposed to be ideal, I often run as early in the day as possible to avoid heat and humidity. During its frigid winters, there's no chance of logging miles outside, no matter how bundled up I get. Because of this, I typically hang up my running shoes for the season come October.

Then the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill arrived in my home. Now, no matter the season or the weather, I can still go on an enjoyable run. From its near-endless supply of interactive workouts to the ability to create custom routes via Google Street View, the 2950 has so much to offer. I even find myself still drawn to it when it's nice enough to run outside.

Read more: The best treadmills for your home gym

The treadmill also features impressive speed and incline ranges capable of adjusting in a matter of seconds, as well as a quality set of speakers. Though there are plenty of other at-home treadmills on the market, there's a lot to the 2950 that sets it apart from the competition.

Specs

The 2950 comes standard with a heart rate chest monitor and a 1-year iFit Coach subscription, which features live interactive training with elite personal trainers. The training programs allow you to either do workouts in a studio, or you can opt for the trainers to take you on runs to beautiful spots throughout the world. After the 1-year iFit trial expires, expect a $180 per year cost for an individual plan and $396 per year for a family plan (up to 5 accounts). 

The treadmill measures 79 inches long, 39.2 inches wide, and 66.9 inches high. You can, however, fold the running surface in order to reduce its footprint to 41.9 inches long, 39.2 inches wide, and 70.7 inches high. The tread belt is 22 inches wide by 60 inches long, which offered plenty of room for my six-foot-tall frame and less-than-perfect running stride.

The arms on either side of the treadmill are roughly 15.5 inches long, and there are trays on either side of the console that easily fit my 1-liter water bottle. There's also another tray beneath the display that offers plenty of room for towels, a smartphone, or other sundries. The weight capacity is 300 pounds. 

The 2950 features a 4.25 continuous-duty horsepower (CHP) DurX Commercial Plus Motor, which is designed to reduce noise and avoid overheating. It also adjusts for declines of up to 3% and inclines up to 15%, and features a top speed of up to 12 miles per hour.

The frame and drive motor are each backed by lifetime warranties, while its parts carry a 5-year warranty and assembly labor a two-year warranty.

Set-up Process

Amazon buyers get a bit of extra incentive when purchasing the NordicTrack treadmill as the price includes free delivery and assembly. The 2950 comes in a box that weighs well over 300 pounds, meaning this isn't a DIY type of project. Three men carried the box up my double L-shaped staircase before assembling the treadmill in a little over an hour. They also hauled all the packaging away.

From there, I connected the unit to the internet, which turned out to be an easy process. Next, I spent 20 minutes updating the software to the latest firmware; registration took another 15. But within an hour of the delivery crew finishing the assembly, I was hiking through a digital version of the Swiss Alps. 

A Versatile Treadmill

The treadmill sits in my office, which isn't the most spacious area of my home. Fortunately, the hydraulic system makes folding the treadmill so effortless, I'm able to do it with just one hand. This frees up plenty of room and avoids turning my office into being only a treadmill room. 

In the three months I've used the NordicTrack Commercial 2950, I've logged more than 175 miles of running. One of its highlights is its versatility of workouts. Not only are you able to either choose a workout video where you run with an instructor but it also lets you create custom courses via Google Street View. I've even been able to use this as a way to get familiar with a new town I might travel to for work. I appreciate that the incline adjusts to accurately match the topography where I'm running.

I usually listen to audiobooks while running, and I like that my phone connects to the treadmill seamlessly over Bluetooth. And, the speakers are loud enough to be heard over the fan and the thudding of my feet. When I choose to tune into the trainer, I appreciate how positive they always are. They do a good job of pushing me to keep going. 

Running the Boston Marathon

My favorite workout program is the Boston Marathon Series with Ashley Paulson. This consists of five videos that take you through the entire Boston Marathon course at a pace of about 10 minutes per mile. Ashley tells you a bit about the race as you go, chats with fellow runners, and helps keep a positive vibe along the way. 

Since I'm just a run-for-fun runner, I invited my friend, Ted Westbrook, a competitive distance runner, to give the treadmill a go for himself. He admitted it was among the best he's used. One aspect that particularly impressed him was how quickly the speed adjusts. After starting at a pace of 7 mph, he upped it to 12 mph and the treadmill adjusted to the new speed in under 8 seconds. As a frequent Boston Marathon finisher, Ted appreciated the machine's ability to adjust the incline to match the course — a feature that would be a useful training tool since the marathon starts with several declines.

Sweat it Out

I sweat — a lot. I'm usually pouring sweat within the first mile of a run and since I typically run roughly four miles each workout, this leaves the machine covered in perspiration. I do make a point of wiping it down after each run, but some areas are hard to get dry, such as the tray under the console. The vertical uprights even appear to have permanent streak marks from my sweat.

The user manual does recommend regularly cleaning it with a damp cloth and some mild soap, which has helped a bit. If you sweat as much as I do, you may want to consider giving it a wipe down after each use. 

Minor Drawbacks

Though the treadmill's 22-inch touchscreen display is a nice feature, the fact it's unable to function as a computer monitor to stream media is unfortunate. I sometimes enjoy getting a few steps in while catching up on TV shows or watching a sporting event and was only able to do this by using my laptop and positioning it just right on the unit. Being able to do this on the screen provided would be much more convenient.  

Another drawback was how the treadmill seemed to rock a bit after it was first assembled. This could've been due to the uneven hardwood floors of my old house but to fix it, I placed a Square36 Exercise Mat under it. This not only stopped the rocking but also protected my floors from the treadmill — and my buckets of sweat.

The Bottom Line

Though I had a few nitpicks, none were significant enough to steer me away from wanting to constantly use the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill when I wanted to go for a run. But, at $3,000, is it worth it?

Should you buy it?

If you have the money, then yes. With a sizable track, strong motor, large touchscreen display, and impressive workout programs, the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 is a versatile and full-featured at-home treadmill. This is a particularly good investment for your health if you live in an area where the weather makes it difficult to routinely exercise outside or suitable gyms are inconvenient and expensive.

However, $3,000 may well be out of most runners' budget. Fortunately, there are some ways you can save if you're willing to give up a few of its features. Though the 2950 is the top-of-the-line model in NordicTrack's Commercial Series of treadmills, there are two other models which cost significantly less: The 2450 and the 1750.

What model should you get?

The 2450 currently costs $2,299 on Amazon, but expert assembly costs an additional $112.97. It has less power than the 2950 with its 4-CHP motor, as well as a smaller screen (14 inches as opposed to 22 inches). Other than that, all its major specs are virtually identical: It has the same size track, along with the same speed and incline options. It also comes with a one-year iFit membership. 

The 1750 is $1,799 right now on Amazon and includes free expert assembly, making it the cheapest option of the three. The major differences from the 2950 are its weaker (but still quite powerful) 3.75-CHP motor, its smaller 10-inch touchscreen, and the fact it only inclines to 12 percent. All other major specs are the same.

What are your alternatives?

If none of the NordicTrack Commercial Series treadmills appeal to you, we encourage you to check out our guide to the best treadmills. Perhaps you're on a budget and want to consider the Horizon Fitness treadmill that only costs $600, or maybe you prefer a race-specific model like ProForm Pro's 2000. 

If you have the money, however, I strongly recommend considering the NordicTrack Commercial 2950 Treadmill. It offers an enjoyable and convenient way to boost your cardio health when the weather outside is poor. If you're like me, you might even prefer to still run on it when it's nice. It's that good. 

Pros: Comes with a chest heart rate monitor and a one-year iFit membership, adjusts to speeds up to 12 mph quickly, features an incline range of -3 to 15%, comes with a lifetime warranty on frame and motor, free expert assembly

Cons: Screen is limited to workout functions and programs and can't stream personal media, requires frequent cleaning if you sweat a lot

Join the conversation about this story »

• The Announce Calls feature on iPhone was introduced with iOS 10, and when enabled Siri will "speak" the name of the contact calling you.
• If the number calling you is not in your contacts, Siri will say the phone number aloud, or if the number does not show up on your screen, Siri will say "Unknown Caller."
• Note that when Announce Calls is enabled, your ringtone will ring as usual and then quiet down when a call is announced.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Announce calls is a great feature that Apple rolled out with iOS 10 that enables your iPhone to "speak" the name of whoever is calling you. 

This helps you to know who is calling you without even having to look at your phone, which can be helpful if your phone isn't easily accessible or if someone calls you while you're driving.

If the number calling you is not in your contacts, Siri will either read the number aloud or announce "Unknown Caller," depending on what the screen reads. 

Also, if you put your phone on vibrate or Do Not Disturb, Siri will not announce the name of your caller, so you don't have to worry about it disrupting you.

Check out the products mentioned in this article:

iPhone 11 (From $699.99 at Best Buy)

How to turn on Announce Calls on your iPhone

1. Open Settings.

2. Scroll down and tap "Phone."

3. Under "Calls," the first menu item should be "Announce Calls." Tap it.

4. On the next screen you'll find your Announce Calls options. 

• If you select "Always," the feature will always be enabled. 
• Select "Headphones Only" and Siri will only announce the caller when you have headphones connected. 
• Select "Headphones & Car" and Siri will only announce the caller when your phone is connected to your car or when you have headphones connected. 
• You can also select "Never" to turn off the feature.

Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:

• 'Why won't my iPhone update apps?': 6 ways to fix iPhone apps that won't update

• How to listen to audiobooks on your iPhone using the Apple Books app

• 'Why is my location wrong on my iPhone?': 4 reasons your location isn't accurate and how to fix it

• 'Which iPhones have wireless charging?': A full list of which iPhones can charge wirelessly, and how to wirelessly charge older phones

• How to use Dropbox on your iPhone to store or share files, and access them on any device

SEE ALSO: The best iPhone for every type of person and budget

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: How autopilot on an airplane works

• In an effort to reduce her carbon footprint, climate activist Greta Thunberg — who is Time's 2019 Person of the Year— hasn't flown since 2015. 
• Thunberg's travel habits have inspired travelers from around the world and Sweden, in particular, to opt for more eco-friendly transportation. This has been dubbed the "Greta Effect."
• Two Swedish terms have become zeitgeist buzzwords in 2019: flygskam (flight-shaming) and tagskryt (train-bragging).
• A Swedish Facebook group dedicated to traveling sustainably by train now has 170,000 train-bragging members, up 200 percent since April. 
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Sixteen-year-old Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg caused quite the media stir in September when she arrived in New York City for the UN Climate Summit not by plane, but on a 60-foot solar-powered yacht. 

Thunberg, who is Time's 2019 Person of the Year and a suspected frontrunner for the Nobel Peace Prize, hasn't flown since 2015 in an effort to reduce her carbon footprint.

Thunberg's activism has set in motion what has been deemed the "Greta Effect," inspiring travelers to book more eco-friendly travel options. 

And Swedes are leading the charge. Two Swedish terms — flygskam (flight-shaming) and tagskryt (train-bragging) — have become 2019 buzzwords.

A popular Swedish train-bragging Facebook group has seen a 200% increase since April

Serving as a testament to the rising popularity of train-bragging, a Swedish Facebook group dedicated to traveling sustainably by train has seen its membership soar to 170,000 members this year. That's a 200% increase since April and a significant jump from January 2018, when it had a mere 4,000 members.

Susanna Elfors founded the group in 2014 to make traveling by train to other countries less of a headache.

Upon starting to travel exclusively by train, she told Public Radio International's Carol Hills, "... I got quite frustrated because I thought it was hard."

"It was tricky and not so comfortable," she continued. "I had been working in sustainability for many years so I thought 'if I'm finding this difficult, others must be.'"

Posts in the group range from travel anecdotes to destination tips and questions about how best to get from point A to B. 

"For 400 [Swedish kroner] and some luck I got a whole compartment for myself on the night train between Hamburg and Zurich," one member train-bragged in September. "Have slept like a starfish over all seats and listened to audio book at the highest volume while the sun has gone down and then up again. 1000 times more festive than all the flygplansstolar [aircraft chairs] in the whole world!"

Some of the most frequently asked questions in the group are related to travel from Sweden to Greece, how to travel as a tall person, how to travel with a dog, and what the food is like, Elfors told Global Citizen's Helen Lock in July.  

In 2018, train travel throughout Sweden increased by 2 million trips compared to 2017, according to the World Economic Forum (WEF). This year, the Swedish government has also pledged to invest $5 million in overnight sleeper trains, the WEF reported.

The train-bragging sentiment has outpaced flight-shaming, Elfors told Lock. "Before it was all about posting pics on Facebook from Thailand, but now that could bring 'flight shame' and it's more about train-bragging now," she said. "That's what I like about what we're doing. It's not about shame, it's about encouraging people. We're hoping to inspire people."

Are you a train-bragger with a story or itinerary to share? Email this reporter at mwiley@businessinsider.com.

SEE ALSO: Greta Thunberg's refusal to take any flights since 2015 has spawned a whole 'train-bragging' movement, and it's ushered in a new era for luxury travelers around the world

NOW READ: Greta Thunberg clapped back at Deutsche Bahn after it appeared to accuse her of staging a picture of her sitting on the floor of an 'overcrowded' train

Join the conversation about this story »

NOW WATCH: On Giving Tuesday, see how Bill Gates and Warren Buffett are changing the world like no other humans in history

• Grocery stores can spark joy, and those that do are often rewarded with customer loyalty.
• Gelson's Markets, a southern California chain, was the first grocery chain to sell the Impossible Burger and was also voted "Best in the West" in a 2019 Consumer Reports poll.
• I visited a Gelson's store in Los Angeles to see what all the fuss was about, but my experience was disappointing rather than joyful. Here's why.
• Sign up for Business Insider's retail newsletter, The Drive-Thru, to get more stories like this in your inbox.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

There are certain grocery stores, like objects, that spark joy.

Wegmans' devoted following inspired me to journey to Brooklyn Navy Yard to check out its first New York City location. I was an instant convert. Others eschew the wonder of Wegmans for Southern grocery chain Publix. Some people even get married at Costco or smuggle Trader Joe's products across international borders.

Gelson's Markets, a regional chain based in southern California, was rated"Best in the West" by Consumer Reports this year and ranked fourth in the nation among 96 grocery store chains. Impossible Foods also chose Gelson's to be the first grocery store to sell its plant-based burger.

In order to see what made Gelson's so special, I paid a visit to a store location in Hollywood, California.

SEE ALSO: I went inside Seattle's 90-year-old Macy's store, which is set to close after the holidays, and found the building is already being taken over by Amazon

I arrived at Gelson's on a Monday evening to a largely full parking lot.

Near the entrance, there was a sign advertising the Impossible Burger.

The first thing to greet me as I entered was a shelf of LaCroix.

The interior was shiny and pretty, and the interior was full of that laid-back Los Angeles charm.

Near the entrance, there was a small cafe area with books, magazines, and a bakery.

The bakery is semi-separate from the grocery store and has its own name, Victor Benés.

It was full of gorgeous cookies, pastries, and cakes.

Just outside the bakery was a display showcasing products from a preserves and nut butters brand, Stonewall Kitchen.

Its creamy peanut butter cost $8 for a jar.

Despite the full parking lot, I was surprised to find the store relatively empty.

Next, I took a look at the meat section.

On the shelves were packages of Gelson's brand meat. At $15 a pound, this New York strip steak was on the pricey side, but it looked pretty high-quality.

Of course Gelson's has a poké bar. What self-respecting high-end West Coast grocery store doesn't?

I briefly considered getting poké for dinner, but once I looked at the ingredients and price — $18 a pound — I decided against it.

Moreover, the raw seafood didn't look too fresh. It was late in the day, though.

There was also a fresh sushi section that was mostly empty.

The fish in the case was not nearly as impressive as the colorful, shiny fish in Wegmans' sushi case.

Next, I headed over to the pickled foods, vegetarian options, and desserts fridges.

These tiny glass pots of vanilla pudding cost $3.50 each.

Overall, there weren't that many Gelson's brand products. But most brands were local or organic, or some combination of the two.

There was a large variety of plant-based meat alternatives.

Sure, there wasn't a whole lot of Impossible on the shelf. But it was still there, and it was there first.

Next, I dipped into the wine, spirits, and beer section. There were a few restock carts sitting in the aisle.

Most of the offerings were on the pricier side. Gelson's brand wine was sold next to Francis Ford Coppola's wine brand.

However, I also found an incredible deal on apple pie-flavored moonshine. As a "Justified" lover and Margo Martindale fan, I had to try this.

Mags Bennett, Martindale's character on "Justified," is known for her signature moonshine, which tastes like apple pie.

Like Wegmans, Gelson's had a kombucha fridge. However, all these pre-bottled kombuchas were outside brands.

When I looked up I noticed that the walls were lined with star-studded moments from Hollywood's history.

But the store didn't feel quite as glamorous as it could have, despite a wood-paneled display fridge for fresh-cut cheeses.

It was the first time I'd seen a wooden fridge, but this party platter inside looked less than festive.

Overall, though, the fresh cheeses section seemed like a splurge that would be worth it.

But the average shopper can't live on splurges, and it was clear that even everyday products from normal grocery brands had some pretty significant markups. These Knorr chicken bouillon cubes cost $2.79 a box at Gelson's, but cost only $0.98 on Amazon Fresh.

Source: Amazon Fresh

$9 for a rotisserie chicken wasn't atrocious, but it was definitely on the high end of what I'd expect to pay.

Next, I moved onto the dairy and eggs aisle.

All the eggs on the shelf were pasture-raised, organic, free-range ... you get the idea. A Gelson's dozen cost $4.50.

At first, I balked at paying $5 for discounted butter. But it was hand-rolled. Maybe it was worth the premium over the regular stuff.

And honestly, most things at Gelson's took me on the same buyer's journey: this is too expensive, but wow, it's really nice, maybe it's worth the extra money.

I feared my wallet might not make it out unscathed before I left the store.

There was a fresh flowers and balloons section that sold everything from holiday wreaths to orchids.

The produce section felt almost unbelievably overpriced. I could never justify paying $7 for a mango, even if it was from Australia.

However expensive it was, I had to admit that the produce section was fresh, colorful, and full of variety.

Finally, I moved into the prepared foods section.

There was a soup and salad bar separate from the hot foods section.

There were also some prepackaged portions of deli foods and soups for a quick grab-and go.

Here's where Gelson's really one-ups Wegmans. It not only has its own house brand of kombucha, but it also has its house brand kombucha on tap with reusable glass growlers.

It was late and I hadn't yet eaten, so I was looking forward to the hot and prepared foods section.

There was a Wolfgang Puck Express with pizza and salads.

Wolfgang Puck Express is a gourmet fast-casual and foodservice brand, but the food left in the case wasn't too appetizing.

The employees behind the counter were friendly and helpful. They offered me samples, and eventually I went with a superfood salad with Brussels sprouts and lemon vinaigrette.

But that was partially because the hot food selection looked just kind of like mush.

I left Gelson's feeling disappointed. My visit didn't spark the joy I had hoped, and I just didn't understand how the chain had won the "Best in the West" award. I've been to other grocery stores on the West Coast that were far more impressive.

Even though Gelson's had high-quality products, I didn't feel like most of them justified their even higher prices.

• Of the five automaker stocks I cover, only Ferrari has beaten the S&P index in 2019, year-to-date.
• Surprisingly, Ford has been the No. 2 performer.
• Tesla was the big underperformer for most of the year, until Q4.
• Sign up for Business Insider's transportation newsletter, Shifting Gears, to get more stories like this in your inbox.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

I keep close tabs on the stocks of five publicly traded automakers: General Motors, Ford, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Tesla, and Ferrari.

Every year, I run the numbers to determine whose company's shares yielded the best payoff for investors.

In 2019, I wasn't surprised. But I did notice an incredibly interesting development with four of the five companies.

Chart by Andy Kiersz.

FOLLOW US: On Facebook for more car and transportation content!

Starting from an equal footing and comparing GM, Ford, FCA, Tesla, and Ferrari's 2019 stock-price performance against each other, the clear winner was Ferrari.

Ferrari shares, year-to-date, have risen 70%, versus a 29% increase for the S&P. The Italian automaker has outperformed both the market and the nearest stock in my coverage by a factor of three.

But now for the interesting stuff. You might think that Tesla, which has been on a late-year tear, would have been my No. 2 stock. But Ford actually beat out Tesla, by a narrow margin.

Ford is supposed to be in a bad spot right now, spending $11 billion to restructure its business under CEO Jim Hackett. But for investors, the stock is obviously a bargain.

As for Tesla, its relative performance for much of the year was objectively awful. But of course, the carmaker's shares are hotly traded by longs and shorts, so you could have bought on some of the big dips and made a nice return during 2019.

More recently, Tesla has started to look as though it might have found some footing, and shares are finishing 2019 at record levels, above $400. Tesla now has the largest market cap of the five automakers I follow.

GM and FCA marched along together for the year, with FCA enjoying a late-2019 bump up in price when the carmaker's merger with Peugeot was announced.

GM and CEO Mary Barra have been moving along on an even financial keel, making money, money, and more money. But a 50-day strike by the UAW is likely to weigh on full-year profits.

And now for the most interesting aspect of this chart!

The 2019 gains by automaker were as follows:

• Ferrari: 70%
• Ford: 21%
• Tesla: 20%
• GM: 10%
• FCA: 5%

Only Ferrari, as I've noted, beat the broader market.

But what we see at the end of the year is a remarkable convergence of what we might want to call the US Big Four. They've all wound up in about the same place, underperforming the S&P and coming within 10-15% of each other.

Ferrari, meanwhile, is clearly in a different business. Selling $400,000 supercars and million-dollar-plus hypercars is clearly a lucrative luxury undertaking. Ferrari sold far, far fewer vehicles than the next closest company, Tesla (around 10,000 versus something like 350,000) but entranced investors with its prospects.

More interestingly, perhaps, is that as Tesla has grown, its financial identity has converged with the segment it's in. Elon Musk is running a car company, not a tech company, and 2019 proves it.

• These lightweight Hoka One One Carbon X shoes have a cushioned, curved midsole, providing extra padding for smooth, supportive runs.
• They empowered me to get back into running, without pain, after going through ACL reconstruction surgery and a long recovery.
• The laces do frustratingly come untied easily and the shoes shouldn't be used for strength training.

Running shoes have seemingly morphed from purely utilitarian kicks to trend-setting fashion statements over the past several years. We've witnessed the rise of brands like Nike, Athletic Propulsion Labs, Yeezy Supply, and others that appear to be much more focused on style than function. 

Hoka One One, a French brand acquired by Deckers in 2013, has effectively bucked that trend. A noticeably clunky shoe, Hokas feature a signature style of cushioning that adds an extra inch or so of padding. However, the odd design appears to be working as revenue for the brand has grown 40% over the past three years, according to CNBC.

With that extra padding comes added comfort, too. That's why I decided to try the Carbon X after I was cleared to run following ACL reconstruction surgery. The shoe is one of Hoka's latest models and is designed with a first-of-its-kind technology that hasn't appeared in other styles. 

During my eight-month recovery from ACL surgery, I missed running dearly. But I also wanted to make sure I treated my new knee gently as I got back to pounding the pavement — no minimalist running shoes for me, please. Plus, I've enjoyed one of Hoka's trail running shoes in the past, so I was curious to try this road-friendly style. 

The design

The Carbon X is designed for competitions — in other words, it's built for speed, as well as comfort. Hoka's proprietary curved sole is called the "Meta-Rocker," which you can essentially think of as wheels for your feet. 

The rocking motion is supposed to help propel you as you run, as well as reduce the impact of the start-stop motion that running puts on your body. Made of lightweight foam materials, the base provides added stability and a sense of responsiveness, in addition to the feeling of propulsion. 

The rest of the shoe is super lightweight, with single-layer mesh allowing for breathability. There's plenty of room in the wide toe-box area, which also features carbon-fiber plates under the toe section to ensure a smooth stride. 

Overall, these Carbon X shoes aren't as bulky as other styles Hoka offers. I'd even go so far to say they're sleek, especially if you choose the black-and-white version. Additionally, I'm not going to complain about the extra inch of height it gives me. 

The perks

If you've ever recovered from an injury, then you know that joyous feeling of being cleared to run again. With the Carbon X on my feet, my first runs post-surgery not only felt good but more importantly, they felt painless. 

Overall, I'm a big fan of the rocking motion this shoe provided. It powered me through my first few runs, both indoors and outdoors, and I felt like it helped me have a smoother stride and softer footfalls. Although the heels look like they're built up quite a bit, the overall drop is minimal. This allows for a natural footstrike and a fluid transition through the stride.

Don't just take it from me. I asked Rob Watson, Lululemon Global Run Ambassador, and Canadian long-distance runner, for his thoughts on the Carbon X, as well.

"I am indeed a recent Hoka convert to these weird-looking, yet effective shoes," Watson told Business Insider. "They are soft and supremely cushioned, as you can assume by the look of them, but they also provide a really smooth ride." 

While Watson is considering using the Carbon X as his racing shoes for the 2020 Boston Marathon, I don't have my sights set on any big races in the near future. Thankfully, they also double as my everyday shoes. They work well for wearing around town while running errands and are perfect for traveling. On a trip to New York City, I wore them while walking up to 6 miles a day, and my feet never felt sore.

The caveats 

The biggest issue I've had with the Carbon X shoes is with the laces. For some reason, they come untied far too easily. I've even double-tied them but even then, they still come loose. Anything short of an actual knot and they're likely to come undone. 

Then there's the price. At $180, they are on the pricier end of the running shoe spectrum, though I do believe they're worth the extra investment. I've used them almost daily for roughly five months and they seem to be holding up quite well.

The final drawback is that the Carbon X isn't a suitable shoe for strength training. Unfortunately, I found this out the hard way while attending my favorite functional training class at the gym. During a lunge, my coach shook her head at my feet, which immediately made me think I was doing something wrong.

"You're not doing anything wrong," she explained. "I just hate those cushioned shoes for strength training." 

Though the curved sole provides stability while running, it also causes instability during strength moves. Think about doing a lunge or squat. You're supposed to ground the sole of your foot into the floor, but the padding prevents that from happening. My trainer explained that this causes the moves to be far less effective overall. Plus, it prevents you from strengthening the whole foot during these lower-body moves since your feet and toes aren't involved. 

The bottom line

Whether you're a beginner, recovering from an injury, or a professional long-distance runner, I'd highly recommend adding the Carbon X to your running shoe arsenal. It's a lightweight and functional shoe that lets you feel like you're flying. While there are some slight drawbacks, the overall advantages of comfort and speed that the Meta-Rocker design delivers are well worth the price tag.

• Should you buy it? Yes. These shoes are great for long-distance runners, as well as anyone recovering from an injury. They're not just for training, either, as they work well as an everyday shoe and provide comfort all day long. 
• What are your alternatives? The running shoe market is full of variety, though the closest competitor in terms of design might be Nike's newest running shoes. Featuring a similar amount of bulky padding in the heel, as well as a sort of pointed end, the shoes are designed for long-distance runners who want more responsiveness. 

Pros: Foam padding provides plenty of comfort, especially if you're recovering from an injury, Meta-Rocker design delivers noticeable propulsion while running, offers a smooth stride and soft footfalls

Cons: Pricey at $180 and the laces come undone easily, even when double-knotted

Join the conversation about this story »