Frederick Cortez Lee Jr is an American entrepreneur and founder of Debt Elimination Group, Inc., a company he launched in 1998 in Fayetteville, North Carolina. His career has been shaped by a clear focus on helping families improve their financial position through education rather than traditional sales tactics.

Lee began building his business with a simple idea. Teach people how to become debt free faster. Over time, that idea turned into a scalable model. The company expanded from its early base in Georgia to more than 32 states, driven almost entirely by word of mouth.

Between 2005 and 2007, Debt Elimination Group funded over $1.3 billion in loan volume in just 30 months. During that same period, the company supported more than 3,400 clients, with no reported foreclosures or defaults. This track record helped establish Lee as a disciplined operator in a complex industry.

He is also known for building high-performing teams. Under his leadership, dozens of team members reached strong income milestones, reflecting his focus on opportunity and development. His philosophy centres on effort, mindset, and consistency rather than background or formal education.

Lee’s approach is rooted in values. He prioritises integrity, service to military and underserved communities, and a belief that anyone can succeed with the right drive. Over time, he shifted the business into a boutique financial services marketing firm, adapting to changes in the industry.

Today, he is recognised for combining practical strategy with a people-first leadership style.

Interview: Frederick Cortez Lee Jr on Building a Business Through Education and Resilience

Frederick Cortez Lee Jr has built a career around solving real problems for real people. From his early days in Fayetteville to scaling a multi-state operation, his story reflects persistence, discipline, and a strong belief in doing things the right way. In this conversation, he shares insights from his journey.

Q: Let’s start at the beginning. What led you to start Debt Elimination Group in 1998?

I saw a major problem in my community. Families were struggling with debt and did not have a clear path forward. I believed there was a better way. Instead of selling products, I wanted to teach concepts. That was the foundation. If people understood the strategy, they could change their situation.

Q: You built the company without traditional advertising. How did that work?

We focused on results and relationships. When you help someone solve a real problem, they tell others. That is how we grew. We started in Georgia and expanded into over 32 states through referrals alone. It created a strong sense of trust in what we were doing.

Q: The period from 2005 to 2007 stands out. What was happening during those years?

That was a defining time. In about 30 months, we funded over $1.3 billion in loan volume and helped more than 3,400 clients. What I am most proud of is that none of those clients went into foreclosure or default. That told me the system we built was working.

Q: You also developed a high-performing team. What was your approach to leadership?

I believed in giving people a real opportunity. It did not matter where they came from or their education. If they had the will to win, they could succeed. We had team members earning at all levels, from $50,000 to over $1 million. That came from training, structure, and belief.

Q: You faced challenges early on. How did you navigate them?

I lacked experience in several areas, including finance, marketing, and technology. But I leaned on what my father taught me. Be honest. Work hard. Do right by people. Those principles helped me push through obstacles and stay focused.

Q: Your background includes growing up in East St. Louis. How did that shape your mindset?

I was told many times that people like me do not win in business. That you are not smart enough or do not have the right background. I used that as motivation. I focused on doing the right things consistently. Over time, the results spoke for themselves.

Q: What role did mentorship and influence play in your journey?

A big role. My father was a major influence. I also looked up to leaders like Sandy Weill and Jamie Dimon. Motivational figures like Les Brown helped shape my mindset. And I had strong support from people around me who believed in the vision.

Q: How did you manage growth as the business expanded?

We relied on structure and measurement. I used KPI trackers to stay on top of performance. We focused on finding the right people and building a niche in the market. It was about being disciplined and consistent.

Q: What keeps you motivated today?

Seeing others succeed. When people around you reach their goals, it means the system works. That is what I look back on the most. It is not just about personal success. It is about what you help others achieve.

Q: How would you describe your leadership style now?

I see myself as a servant leader. You put your team and the families you serve first. If you stay focused on that, the business will take care of itself. I also try to stay humble. That is important no matter how far you go.

Q1: 2026-05-05 Earnings Summary

EPS of -$0.20 misses by $0.05

 | Revenue of $0.00 beats by $0.00

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Nathan Weingarten is known for his disciplined mindset and consistent approach to personal and professional growth. Born in New Jersey and raised as the youngest in his family, he developed a strong sense of observation and curiosity early on. These traits would later shape how he approaches challenges and opportunities.

He pursued his education in New York City, where he built a structured way of thinking and a focus on long-term progress. Over time, Nathan developed a reputation for staying grounded, focused, and analytical in his work. Rather than chasing short-term results, he prioritises steady improvement and clear decision-making.

Nathan’s career is centred in software development, where he works on building scalable systems, improving application performance, and designing reliable backend architectures. He approaches engineering with a methodical mindset, often breaking down complex technical problems into simple, manageable components. This ability has made him effective in fast-paced development environments where clarity and precision matter.

“I’ve always believed that doing the basics well, over and over, creates real progress,” he says.

Outside of his professional life, Nathan maintains an active lifestyle. He enjoys tennis, cycling, padel, and swimming, using these activities to stay balanced and energised. He is also an avid reader and traveller, constantly seeking new perspectives.

Nathan supports charitable efforts in both the United States and Israel. He believes that long-term success is not just about personal achievement, but also about contributing to a wider community.

Nathan Weingarten on Discipline, Growth, and Staying Focused

Q: Let’s start from the beginning. What shaped your early mindset?

I became interested early on in how systems work and how people solve problems. That curiosity stayed with me and eventually led me toward software development, where structured thinking and problem-solving are essential.

Q: How did your time in New York City influence you?

New York gave me structure and intensity. It’s a place where you have to stay focused because everything moves quickly. That environment taught me how to prioritise, manage time effectively, and stay clear under pressure. Those lessons translate directly into how I approach engineering work.

Q: What would you say defines your approach to your career?

Consistency. In software development, results come from repetition and refinement. I focus on building things properly, step by step, rather than rushing outcomes. I also prioritise simplicity, especially when solving complex engineering problems.

Q: Many people struggle with distractions. How do you stay focused?

It’s about being intentional with attention. In technology, there is constant noise, new frameworks, tools, and trends. I try to stay focused on what actually improves system quality and long-term stability rather than reacting to everything new.

Q: You often speak about long-term thinking. Why is that important?

Because in software development, short-term decisions often lead to technical debt. Long-term thinking helps you design systems that scale, remain maintainable, and reduce future issues. It leads to better engineering outcomes.

Q: What role do habits play in your daily life?

Habits create structure. Staying active with tennis, cycling, and padel helps maintain balance and mental clarity. I also read regularly, including technical material, which supports continuous learning and growth in software development.

Q: How has travel influenced your perspective?

Travel exposes you to different approaches to problem-solving and system design. It helps you see how varied environments handle efficiency, structure, and communication, which is useful when thinking about software systems at scale.

Q: What challenges have helped shape your growth?

One of the biggest challenges is patience in development work. Software rarely works perfectly on the first attempt. Iteration, debugging, and refinement are part of the process. Staying consistent through that cycle is where real improvement happens.

Q: How do you define leadership?

In software development, leadership is demonstrated through technical clarity and consistency. It’s about setting standards through your own work, writing clean and maintainable code, and helping others do the same.

Q: You’re also involved in charitable efforts. Why is that important to you?

It provides perspective. While software development is highly technical and focused, it’s important to stay connected to broader communities and contribute in meaningful ways beyond work.

Q: What advice would you give to someone trying to improve their focus?

Keep it simple. Focus on fundamentals in both life and engineering. Avoid overcomplicating problems. Consistent improvement over time matters more than intensity or speed.

Q: Final question. What continues to drive you?

Building better systems. In software development, there is always something that can be improved, refined, or simplified. That ongoing process of improvement is what keeps me motivated.

NEW YORK — Costco Wholesale Corp. (NASDAQ: COST) remains one of the most resilient retail investments in 2026, with analysts largely recommending shares as a Moderate Buy amid robust membership growth, digital sales momentum and ambitious warehouse expansion plans, even as the stock trades near all-time highs around $1,012.

As of early May 2026, Costco shares hover near $1,012, up modestly year-to-date but reflecting strong underlying fundamentals. Wall Street’s consensus leans bullish: 22 Buy ratings, 11 Hold and just 1 Sell among 34 analysts, with an average 12-month price target of approximately $1,046 to $1,078 — implying 3% to 7% upside from current levels. High-end targets reach $1,315.

Q2 2026 Earnings Strength

Costco delivered another solid quarter in fiscal Q2 2026 (ended February 15). Net sales rose 9.1% to $68.24 billion, while net income increased nearly 14% to $2.035 billion, or $4.58 per diluted share. Comparable sales grew 7.4%, with digitally-enabled sales surging 22.6%. Membership fee income climbed 13.6% to $1.355 billion, underscoring the power of its recurring revenue model.

Executive memberships reached a record 40.4 million, up 9.5%, while global renewal rates held steady near 90%. These metrics highlight exceptional customer loyalty even after the 2024 membership fee increase.

Growth Drivers in Focus

Costco continues its aggressive expansion, targeting 28 net new warehouses in fiscal 2026 and aiming for 30+ annually in coming years. The company now operates 924 locations worldwide and sees significant runway for growth in both domestic and international markets.

Digital initiatives are accelerating, with strong e-commerce performance complementing in-warehouse traffic. Value-focused strategies — including the iconic $1.50 hot dog combo and new prepared food offerings — continue attracting members amid economic pressures. Kirkland Signature products and partnerships, such as expanded Amy’s Kitchen items, further differentiate the brand.

Valuation Considerations

At roughly 52-53 times trailing earnings, Costco carries a premium valuation compared to peers like Walmart and broader retail. Some analysts caution that limited near-term upside exists at current levels, suggesting investors consider dollar-cost averaging on dips rather than lump-sum purchases. Forward P/E sits around 46-49, reflecting expectations of sustained mid-single-digit sales growth.

However, the company’s high-margin membership fees (nearly pure profit), fortress balance sheet and consistent execution justify much of the premium for long-term holders. Costco has delivered strong total returns over the past five years, and its model proves resilient across economic cycles.

Buy, Sell or Hold Verdict

For long-term investors: Costco remains a compelling Buy. Its membership flywheel, predictable revenue streams and exposure to consumer staples provide defensive qualities in uncertain times. Steady warehouse growth, digital acceleration and international potential support mid-to-high single-digit earnings growth for years ahead.

For short-term traders: The stock may appear fully valued or even slightly overvalued after recent gains. Waiting for pullbacks toward the $990-$1,005 range could offer better entry points.

Existing shareholders: Hold. The business continues performing well fundamentally, with no compelling reason to sell a high-quality compounder.

Risks to Watch

Potential tariff impacts, inflation pressures on margins and competition from Walmart and Amazon remain watchpoints. However, Costco’s pricing power, loyal base and operational efficiencies have historically helped navigate such challenges.

Outlook for Remainder of 2026

Analysts project continued top-line growth around 7-8% annually, supported by new store openings and same-store sales strength. Special dividends remain possible given strong cash flow, as seen in past years. Costco’s ability to raise membership fees periodically without significant churn adds another lever for profitability.

The company’s focus on value, quality and member experience positions it well in a retail landscape increasingly dominated by convenience and digital channels. As consumer preferences evolve toward trusted, bulk-value retailers, Costco’s model appears durable.

Investment Thesis Summary

Costco exemplifies a high-quality business with wide moats: brand loyalty, scale advantages and a membership-driven economic model that creates recurring revenue and pricing discipline. While the stock rarely trades cheap, patient investors have been rewarded handsomely over decades.

In 2026, with the stock trading near highs but backed by strong fundamentals and growth visibility, the consensus leans toward accumulation on weakness for long-term portfolios. Short-term volatility from macroeconomic or geopolitical events may create buying opportunities.

Whether building a new position or adding to an existing one, Costco offers a compelling combination of growth, defensiveness and shareholder returns that few retailers can match. As the company pushes toward 30+ annual warehouse openings and deeper digital integration, its trajectory remains upward for those with a multi-year horizon.

Online trading has transformed how investors access global markets. What once required brokers and large capital can now be done instantly from a laptop or phone. From crypto to forex, traders today expect speed, flexibility, and control.

As more platforms enter the space, the focus has shifted toward performance and reliability. This is where UKX Capital is starting to gain attention among UK-based traders.

What Is UKX Capital

UKX Capital is a multi-asset trading platform offering access to cryptocurrencies, forex, indices, and commodities. It’s built around fast execution and a simplified interface, aiming to support traders who want quick access to market opportunities without unnecessary complexity.

Range of Markets

The platform provides a solid mix of trading options:

• Cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, altcoins)
• Forex pairs
• Indices
• Commodities

This allows users to diversify strategies while staying within one ecosystem.

Score: 9/10

Deposits and Withdrawals

UKX Capital focuses on making transactions smooth and efficient. Traders can expect:

• Straightforward deposit process
• Reasonably fast withdrawals
• Multiple payment options (depending on region)

Consistency in processing adds to overall trust in the platform.

Score: 8.8/10

Mobile Trading

Mobile trading is a key strength. The platform offers:

• Full functionality on mobile devices
• Real-time charting and execution
• Smooth navigation without lag

This makes it easy to stay connected to the markets at all times.

Score: 9.2/10

Fees

Fees are competitive compared to many modern platforms. While exact structures may vary, the focus is on:

• Tight spreads
• Transparent pricing
• No unnecessary hidden charges

This is particularly important for active traders who execute frequently.

Score: 8.7/10

Trading Platform

The platform itself is designed for efficiency:

• Clean and intuitive layout
• Fast order execution
• Easy switching between assets

It avoids clutter, which helps traders focus on decision-making rather than navigation.

Score: 9.1/10

Education

Educational resources are available but not the main focus. Users will find:

• Basic guides and onboarding support
• Limited advanced learning materials

This suggests the platform is more suited for users who already understand trading fundamentals.

Score: 8.5/10

Security

Security plays an important role in building trust. UKX Capital emphasizes:

• Secure account management
• Data protection measures
• Reliable platform infrastructure

While details may vary, the overall setup aims to provide a safe trading environment.

Score: 9/10

Support

Customer support is accessible and responsive:

• Assistance for account and trading issues
• Multiple contact options
• Reasonable response times

There is still room for faster response in peak periods.

Score: 8.6/10

Bottom Line

UKX Capital positions itself as a modern trading platform focused on speed, simplicity, and crypto accessibility. It performs strongly across key areas like execution, mobile trading, and market range.

While it may not offer deep educational content, it compensates with a streamlined experience that suits active traders.

Overall Score: 9/10

FAQ

Is UKX Capital suitable for UK traders?

Yes, it offers features and market access that align well with UK-based investors.

Can I trade crypto on UKX Capital?

Yes, crypto is a major part of the platform alongside other assets.

Are fees competitive?

Yes, fees are generally competitive with a focus on transparency.

Does it support mobile trading?

Yes, the mobile experience is one of its strongest features.

Is UKX Capital beginner-friendly?

It’s more suitable for traders who already have basic knowledge of trading.

A total of 17 West Country businesses were recognised in the categories of innovation, international trade and sustainability

A plant-based soap company, a cycling accessories designer and a special effects business are among the South West recipients of this year’s King’s Awards for Enterprise.

The annual awards celebrate the achievements of outstanding UK businesses and their contribution to economic growth and improving lives. Of the 186 accolades announced this year, 17 went to West Country firms – with eight receiving awards for innovation, five for international trade and four for sustainability efforts.

Bristol-based bike-packing and cycling equipment business Tailfin was the only business in the UK to receive two awards – for innovation and international trade.

The company, on Cumberland Road, is part of the rapidly-growing ‘bike-packing’ market – an adventure-focused cycling discipline where cyclists carry all necessary gear on their bikes.

Tailfin was founded more than a decade ago by Nick Broadbent, a mechanical engineer and product designer, and initially focused on rack and pannier accessories. Today, it has more than 12 product lines distributed from warehouses in the Netherlands, US and Europe, and last year secured major funding to expand its Bristol HQ.

Blair McDougall, minister for small businesses and economic transformation, said: “A huge congratulations to every business receiving awards this year, who once again have illustrated the best of British innovation and talent.

“These awards show that right across the UK, there are small businesses that are thriving, growing and succeeding and it’s only right that we champion these successes.”

Elsewhere, Devon-based Luminous Show Technology, a cutting-edge special effects company from Exeter, and Cornish bike mudguard business Mucky Nuts received innovation awards, while Somerset military engineering and software firm Systems Engineering & Assessment scooped an international trade award.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Mohammed Saddiq, said: “These outstanding businesses showcase the very highest standards of innovation, professionalism, and integrity. It is particularly inspiring to see such excellence thriving here in Somerset, contributing not only to the local economy but also making a significant impact nationally and internationally. They are truly worthy recipients of this prestigious honour.”

Meanwhile, Cotswold-based natural soap business The Little Soap Company scooped a sustainability award. The firm, which was established by Emma Heathcote-James in 2008, now employs 11 staff, turns over £2.4m a year and its products are stocked by Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Morrisons and Boots. The company previously won a Queen’s Award for Innovation in 2022.

“Receiving a King’s Award for Enterprise is a real honour,” said Ms Heathcote-James. “Sustainability isn’t just about the products, but the team too. It’s embedded in how we work, how we hire, and how we make decisions every day. This award shows that a small UK business can drive large-scale environmental change through everyday products.”

The King’s Awards, which turn 60 this year, were formerly known as the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise. More than 8,000 British businesses have been recognised with this royal accolade since 1966.

His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenants – the king’s representatives in each county – will present the awards to businesses locally throughout the year. One representative from each business will also be invited to a special royal reception event.

Full list of King’s Awards 2026 South West winners

Advanced Innergy, Innovation, Gloucestershire

Avantis Education, Innovation, Gloucestershire

Ergochair, Innovation, Gloucestershire

Luminous Show Technology, Innovation, Devon

Mucky Nutz, Innovation, Cornwall

Pet Remedy, Innovation, Devon

Sharpak Yate, Innovation, Bristol

Tailfin, Innovation and International Trade, Bristol

Devoncraft UK, International Trade, Devon

Focal Point Fires, International Trade, Dorset

Nexus BioQuest, International Trade, Somerset

Systems Engineering & Assessment, International Trade, Somerset

Paradigm Norton Financial Planning, Sustainability, Bristol

Services Design Solution, Sustainability, Devon

The Natural Mat Co, Sustainability, Devon

Tops Day Nursery, Sustainability, Dorset

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday authorized the marketing of fruit-flavored e-cigarettes, marking the first time it has authorized fruit-flavored vaping products.

The FDA said the products are pods made by Los Angeles-based Glas Inc., a vaping manufacturer that uses age-verification technology to restrict access.

The pods come in mango, blueberry and two menthol varieties and will be marketed under the names Gold, Sapphire, Classic Menthol and Fresh Menthol, the agency said.

“The FDA’s rigorous, scientific review of these products found that the applicant sufficiently demonstrated that Glas’s device access restriction technology, combined with FDA-required marketing restrictions, is expected to effectively mitigate the ability of youth to use the product,” the agency said in a statement.

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The FDA has authorized the sale of certain fruit-flavored vaping products for the first time. (Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images / Getty Images)

The decision follows a Wall Street Journal report that President Donald Trump had rebuked FDA Commissioner Marty Makary over the weekend for not approving flavored vapes more quickly.

U.S. regulators have historically been reluctant to authorize flavored vaping products, citing concerns about their appeal to youth. The FDA said it will continue to require strong evidence that such products benefit adult smokers.

Public health and parent groups have long warned that flavored vaping products can appeal to teenagers, and some advocates said the FDA should closely monitor whether the new restrictions are effective. The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids and Truth Initiative criticized Tuesday’s decision, arguing it could undermine progress in reducing youth vaping, according to The Associated Press.

Earlier this year, the agency modified its approach to flavored vapes amid increased industry lobbying and political pressure to expand access.

The White House pushed back on past restrictions, with spokesperson Kush Desai telling FOX Business that flavored vapes help adults quit smoking.

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A sign for the Food And Drug Administration is seen outside of the headquarters on July 20, 2020 in White Oak, Maryland. (Sarah Silbiger/Getty Images / Getty Images)

“The Biden administration cracked down on flavored vapes despite an abundance of evidence finding that these products are beneficial for adults trying to quit smoking,” Desai said. 

“The only factor guiding the Trump administration’s health policy making is Gold Standard Science, and the FDA under Commissioner Makary’s trailblazing leadership will continue to make evidence-based decisions that rectify the Biden administration’s missteps and that are in the best interest of the American people,” he added.

Following Tuesday’s decision, the FDA has authorized 45 e-cigarette products in the United States.

According to the agency, more than 25 million Americans smoke cigarettes, and smoking remains the leading preventable cause of chronic disease and premature death in the U.S., accounting for about one in five deaths.

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Federal regulators approved select flavored vape products, citing potential benefits for adult smokers. (Matthew Horwood/Getty Images / Getty Images)

Federal regulators authorized select flavored vape products, citing potential benefits for adult smokers.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, the FDA has authorized a number of less harmful alternatives for smokers,” the agecy said.

The FDA said marketing of the products will be limited to adults ages 21 and older, and Glas’ technology is designed to reduce youth access.

The system requires users to verify their age with a government-issued ID and pair the device with a smartphone via Bluetooth. The device will not function if separated from the user’s phone.

“By helping to prevent youth use, device access restrictions are a potential game changer,” said Bret Koplow, acting director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products.

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“This technology is also an indication of the role innovation may serve in the effort to protect young people from threats posed by nicotine use and addiction while helping to enable availability of an expanded array of flavored options for adults who smoke who may use these products to completely switch away from regular cigarettes,” he added.

FOX Business has reached out to the White House and FDA for comment.

Reuters contributed to this report.