It appears you are looking to clean up the misinformation and rewrite the Costco Return Policy article to be factual and accurate for 2026.
Below is a rewritten version that removes the “fake news” and “crackdown” rumors, focusing instead on how the policy actually works and the legitimate updates Costco has made recently.
Costco Return Policy 2026: What Members Need to Know
Costco continues to maintain one of the most generous return policies in the retail industry. While recent social media rumors have suggested a “crackdown,” the core of Costco’s “Risk-Free 100% Satisfaction Guarantee” remains unchanged. However, there are specific rules and recent operational updates that every member should understand to ensure a smooth experience.
1. The Core Policy: “Satisfaction Guaranteed”
Costco allows members to return almost any product at any time if they are unsatisfied. Unlike most retailers that impose a 30-day limit, Costco typically does not have an expiration date on returns for general merchandise.
2. The “90-Day Rule” for Electronics
To prevent “rental” abuse (where customers buy a product for a short-term event and return it), Costco enforces a 90-day return window for the following categories:
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Televisions and Projectors
Computers (Laptops and Desktops)
Major Appliances (Refrigerators, Washers/Dryers, etc.)
Touchscreen Tablets and Smartwatches
Cameras, Aerial Cameras (Drones), and Camcorders
MP3 Players and Cellular Phones
3. Notable Exceptions and Limitations
Not everything can be returned. The following items have strict limitations:
Diamonds: Returns of 1.00ct or larger require original paperwork and undergo a 48-hour authenticity check by a Costco gemologist.
Cigarettes and Alcohol: In many jurisdictions, returns are prohibited by law.
Shop Cards: These are non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash.
Custom Installations: Items manufactured to custom specifications (like flooring or blinds) cannot be returned.
4. Recent Operational Shifts (2025–2026)
While the formal policy hasn’t changed, Costco has introduced two key operational updates to improve efficiency and reduce fraud:
Membership Scanning at Entry: Since late 2024, many warehouses have moved to digital scanners at the entrance. This links your visit to your digital history, making it easier for staff to verify purchases at the return desk even if you’ve lost your physical receipt.
Digital Receipts via the App: Costco now encourages the use of the Costco App, where all historical receipts are stored. This has made the “no-receipt” return process much faster for employees to verify.
5. Can You Be Banned for Too Many Returns?
There is no “hard limit” on returns, but Costco’s membership is a privilege. If a member’s history shows a consistent pattern of returning used items or returning a high percentage of everything they buy, the Membership Counter may flag the account for a “membership review.” In extreme cases of abuse, Costco reserves the right to cancel a membership and refund the membership fee.
Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited (BXRBF) Q2 2026 Earnings Call February 15, 2026 6:00 PM EST
Company Participants
Samantha Miller – Head of Investor Relations & ESG Richard Fennell – CEO, MD & Director
Conference Call Participants
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Annabel Ross – Barrenjoey Markets Pty Limited, Research Division Kelsey Bentley – JPMorgan Chase & Co, Research Division Sally Hong – Morgan Stanley, Research Division Andrew Lyons – Jefferies LLC, Research Division Thomas Strong – Citigroup Inc., Research Division John Storey – UBS Investment Bank, Research Division Matthew Dunger – BofA Securities, Research Division Ed Henning – CLSA Limited, Research Division Carlos Cacho – Macquarie Research Brendan Sproules – Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., Research Division Brian Johnson – MST Financial Services Pty Limited, Research Division Christian Mazza – Jarden Limited, Research Division Richard Wiles – Morgan Stanley, Research Division
Presentation
Operator
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Good day, and welcome to the Bendigo and Adelaide Bank 2026 Half Year Results Briefing. [Operator Instructions].
I would now like to hand the conference over to Sam Miller, General Manager, Investor Relations. Please go ahead.
Samantha Miller Head of Investor Relations & ESG
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Thanks, Rocco. Good morning, everyone, and thanks for joining us for Bendigo and Adelaide Bank’s 2026 Half Year Results Briefing. Let me begin today by acknowledging the traditional owners of the lands on which we meet today, the Gadigal People of the Eora Nation. I pay my respects to their elders, past, present and emerging. And I also extend my respects to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are present on the call today.
Moving towards the agenda. There’s been a minor change to our presentation today, and we will broadcast audio and slides only. Our CFO, Andrew Morgan, has tested positive to COVID, and our CEO, Richard Fennell, will present the first half 2026 results with Richard and I handling the Q&A.
The latest earnings season has shown broad-based growth across multiple sectors, although market sentiment remains cautious, particularly in midcap and smallcap stocks. Metals and oil & gas have powered corporate earnings, but fundamentals beyond commodities have also held strong.
Commodity-Led Earnings Boost
Commenting on the theme, Gautam Duggad from Motilal Oswal said, “Metals and oil & gas gave an additional kicker, but even ex-commodities, earnings growth stood at 12%. This is the sixth consecutive quarter of high earnings growth, increasing from 10% to 16% over the period. Out of 27 sectors, 19 delivered double-digit growth, which is encouraging.”
“Strong earnings came from auto, capital goods, NBFCs, and PSU banks. Lending NBFCs grew nearly 30%, non-lending 35%, and PSU banks delivered 18% growth versus an expected 5-6%. Even IT and retail showed healthy growth.”
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He also highlighted a smallcap recovery: “Smallcaps posted close to 30% growth after five quarters of zero or negative numbers. Midcaps ex-commodities grew 20%, slowing the pace of earnings cuts significantly.”
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Market Sentiment and Valuation Concerns Duggad noted: “India has underperformed in dollar terms over the last 15-18 months. Largecaps are fairly valued, but midcaps and smallcaps still need selectivity—midcap index trades at 28 times, smallcap at 24 times. Volatility arises from trade deals, IT, and AI disruption, but fiscal and monetary steps by the government and RBI are now reflecting in earnings, particularly in auto and consumer staples.” IT Disruption and Uncertain Valuations On IT valuations, Duggad said: “We upgraded IT in November, yet Infosys dropped 15-17% shortly after. It has now retraced to around 1300. Short-term levels remain uncertain.”Narrow Nifty Contributions Mask Broader Strength Discussing Nifty earnings, he added: “Financials, consumer, and IT account for 60% of Nifty profits. With these sectors growing only 3-10%, headline Nifty growth of 7-8% is concentrated in few stocks. Broader coverage shows 16% growth, highlighting strong opportunities in mid- and smallcaps. This is truly a stock-picker’s market.”
The new owners of a luxury retreat on Christmas Island are bullish on the remote province’s tourism potential as uncertainty surrounds the island’s major employers.
At just 12 years old, North West, the eldest daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West, is reportedly stepping into the fashion industry with her own clothing and jewelry brand. According to exclusive reports published by The U.S. Sun and echoed across outlets including Daily Mail, Reality Tea and Yahoo, Kardashian has filed multiple trademark applications for the brand name “NOR11,” signaling the preteen’s entry into entrepreneurship.
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The move positions North as the latest family member to pursue a fashion venture, following her mother’s Skims empire and her father’s Yeezy legacy. While no official launch date, collection details or release has been confirmed by the family or representatives, the trademark filings mark a concrete step toward commercialization. Kardashian, often referred to as a “momager” in media coverage, is believed to be overseeing the business aspects.
Trademark Filings and Brand Name Origins The U.S. Sun exclusively revealed that Kim Kardashian submitted three trademark applications for “NOR11” across key categories. These cover clothing and accessories such as dresses, shoes, hats, stockings and outerwear; watches and jewelry including bracelets, necklaces, earrings and rings; and bags like handbags, wallets and cosmetic cases.
The name “NOR11” cleverly combines the start of North’s first name with “11,” which sources suggest references her age when the idea began gaining traction in the Kardashian household. North turned 12 in June 2025, making the “11” a nod to her pre-teen brainstorming phase. The filings indicate a full lifestyle label rather than a limited capsule, encompassing apparel, accessories and jewelry.
As of February 16, 2026, the trademarks remain in the application stage with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. No opposition or approval status has been publicly updated, but the filings alone have sparked widespread speculation about an imminent rollout.
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North’s Fashion Journey So Far North West has long shown a keen interest in style, often appearing in high-fashion looks alongside her mother. From early runway cameos—like her 2018 L.O.L. Surprise Fashion Show debut at age 5—to more recent bold statements, she has built a reputation as a trendsetter.
In 2023, at age 10, North landed her first solo magazine cover with i-D magazine, where she expressed ambitions to own both Yeezy and Skims one day and become a business owner. In a subsequent Interview magazine feature, she told her mother she planned to start her own clothing line called “North West.” These early comments foreshadowed the current developments.
Her style evolution accelerated in 2025–2026. She debuted electric blue hair in braids, bridge piercings, blackened teeth with diamond grills, and maximalist outfits blending streetwear and luxury. Recent sightings include a Valentine’s Day 2026 shopping spree at Alexander Wang in Manhattan with friends, where designer Alexander Wang gifted her a studded leather bag. North sported colorful wigs and alt-fashion pieces, drawing attention for her fearless aesthetic.
Social media amplified her visibility: North joined Instagram in December 2025 under her own account, posting restrained teasers including images with “NOR11” elements and cryptic captions like “🔜,” hinting at upcoming projects. She also appeared in Skims holiday campaigns in late 2025, modeling festive loungewear with blue braids.
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Family Support and Business Backing Kim Kardashian’s involvement underscores the family’s entrepreneurial ethos. Kardashian has built Skims into a billion-dollar brand focused on shapewear and apparel, while navigating trademark disputes and expansions. Her experience likely guides North’s venture, protecting the brand name early and structuring it for growth.
Kanye West’s influence appears in North’s reported style inspirations; she has cited her father as a key fashion muse over her mother in past interviews. The family’s combined legacy—high-fashion red carpets, business acumen and social media savvy—provides a strong foundation.
Critics note the unusual timing for a 12-year-old to launch a commercial brand, raising questions about child labor laws, creative control and long-term impact. However, supporters highlight North’s demonstrated passion and the Kardashian-Jenner history of early career starts (e.g., Kylie Jenner’s cosmetics line).
Potential Collection and Market Impact While specifics remain under wraps, “NOR11” could target tween and young teen demographics with edgy, inclusive apparel and jewelry. Expect influences from streetwear, luxury basics and bold accessories, mirroring North’s personal style—think oversized pieces, custom graphics, piercings-inspired details and sustainable elements to align with modern youth trends.
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The brand would enter a competitive tween/young adult market dominated by Shein, Zara Kids and emerging Gen Z labels. North’s built-in audience—millions following her parents’ social channels and her own growing presence—could drive rapid visibility. Collaborations or limited drops might tie into Skims or other family ventures.
As of mid-February 2026, no launch timeline has surfaced beyond the trademark activity. Industry observers speculate a soft rollout later in 2026 or early 2027, possibly with pop-up events, online exclusives or celebrity endorsements.
Broader Implications North West’s reported fashion career launch reflects evolving celebrity offspring dynamics: from passive exposure to active participation in family businesses. It also highlights the Kardashian brand’s intergenerational strategy, positioning the next generation as entrepreneurs.
Whether “NOR11” becomes a full empire or a creative outlet remains to be seen. For now, the trademark filings confirm North is following her parents’ path—blending fashion, fame and business at an extraordinarily young age.
Legendary singer-songwriter Paul Anka, the enduring voice behind timeless hits like “My Way” and “Put Your Head on My Shoulder,” released his 30th studio album, Inspirations of Life and Love, on February 13, 2026, via Green Hill Music/Sun Label Group. The lushly orchestrated collection arrived perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day weekend, blending nine new original songs with two beloved classics to celebrate seven decades of his influential career.
Paul Anka
The album, available on streaming platforms, CD, vinyl and in Dolby Atmos, follows Anka’s announcement in October 2025 and lead single “Anytime” drop. As of February 16, 2026, it has garnered early praise for its romantic themes, rich arrangements and Anka’s still-vibrant vocals at age 84.
Announcement and Build-Up Anka first teased the project on his official website and social media in mid-October 2025, describing it as a heartfelt reflection on love and life’s milestones. “It’s been an absolute joy to write and record these songs,” he posted on Facebook and Instagram. The lead track “Anytime” served as an instant grat, with a visualizer emphasizing its classic crooner style.
Pre-save campaigns on Spotify and other platforms built anticipation, with the album listed as arriving February 13. Rock Cellar Magazine previewed it in November 2025 as a celebration of Anka’s longevity, noting the inclusion of fresh material alongside re-recordings.
Album Details and TracklistInspirations of Life and Love runs approximately 43 minutes across 11 tracks. The record features Anka’s signature orchestral production, focusing on themes of romance, reflection and enduring emotion—ideal for the holiday release.
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Key tracks include:
“Anytime” (lead single, a new romantic ballad)
“I Just Can’t Wait”
“(All Of A Sudden) My Heart Sings”
“That’s Life” (classic re-recording)
“I Believe” (another nod to his catalog)
“The Last Time I Saw You”
The album mixes original compositions with refreshed hits, showcasing Anka’s continued songwriting prowess. Green Hill Music highlighted the “lush orchestration” and “masterful” performances, positioning it as a mature, heartfelt addition to his discography of over 130 albums.
Media Coverage and Promotions The release coincided with high-profile interviews. CBS Sunday Morning aired a segment on February 15, 2026, where correspondent Lee Cowan profiled Anka’s 70-year career. Anka discussed adapting to industry changes, from teen idol days to writing for Frank Sinatra and embracing modern shifts like AI in music. He performed a spontaneous song about the show and emphasized discipline—daily olive oil with lemon, rigorous routine—to maintain his voice.
Deadline published an exclusive Q&A on February 13, where Anka reflected on Sinatra collaborations, Hollywood evolution and advice for creatives amid disruption. He expressed no immediate retirement plans, teasing his A Man and His Music Tour resuming March 4, 2026.
An HBO Max documentary, Paul Anka: His Way, streams alongside the album, chronicling his journey from 1957 teen sensation to enduring icon.
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Reception and Cultural Impact Early listener reactions on social media and streaming platforms praise the album’s warmth and timeless appeal. Anka posted on Instagram February 14: “Happy Valentine’s Day, everybody 🌹 Let my new album be your soundtrack today.” Fans echoed sentiments, calling it a “perfect love collection” and lauding his enduring relevance.
Critics note the release reaffirms Anka’s status as one of pop music’s most consistent figures, with a Hot 100 presence across seven decades. The Valentine’s timing enhances its romantic draw, potentially boosting streams and sales in the holiday period.
Tour and Future Plans Anka’s A Man and His Music Tour resumes in March 2026, bringing the new material to live audiences. No retirement hints surfaced in recent interviews; he remains active, writing, recording and performing.
Inspirations of Life and Love arrives as a poignant milestone for Anka, blending nostalgia with fresh creativity. Available now on all platforms, it invites listeners to celebrate love through the lens of a music legend who shows no signs of slowing down.
![Heathrow has said passenger numbers were 60% lower in November than before the coronavirus pandemic and there were “high cancellations” among business travellers concerned about being trapped overseas for Christmas as Omicron spreads. The UK’s largest airport said the government’s travel restrictions had dealt a fresh blow to travel confidence and predicted it was likely to take several years for passenger numbers to return to pre-pandemic levels. This week ministers said passengers arriving in the UK would have to take a pre-departure Covid test, as well as a post-flight test, because of fears about the spread of the new variant. “[The] high level of cancellations by business travellers concerned about being trapped overseas because of pre-departure testing shows the potential harm to the economy of travel restrictions,” the airport said in an update. Heathrow said the drop in traveller confidence owing to the new travel restrictions had negated the benefit of reopening the all-important corridor to North America for business and holiday travel last month. Eleven African countries have been added to the government’s red list, requiring travellers to quarantine before reuniting with families. “By allowing Brits to isolate at home, ministers can make sure they are reunited with their loved ones this Christmas,” said John Holland-Kaye, the chief executive of Heathrow. “It would send a strong signal that restrictions on travel will be removed as soon as safely possible to give passengers the confidence to book for 2022, opening up thousands of new jobs for local people at Heathrow. Let’s reunite families for Christmas.” Heathrow said that if the government could safely signal that restrictions would be lifted soon, then employers at Heathrow would have the confidence to hire thousands of staff in anticipation of a boost in business next summer. The airport is expecting a slow start to 2022, finishing next year with about 45 million passengers – just over half of pre-pandemic levels. This week Tui, Europe’s largest package holiday operator, said it expected bookings for next summer to bounce back to 2019 levels. However, Heathrow said on Friday not to expect the aviation industry to recover for several years. “We do not expect that international travel will recover to 2019 levels until at least all travel restrictions (including testing) are removed from all the markets that we serve, at both ends of the route, and there is no risk of new restrictions, such as quarantine, being imposed,” the airport said.](https://wordupnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/shutterstock_1100012546-scaled-400x240.jpg)
![Heathrow has said passenger numbers were 60% lower in November than before the coronavirus pandemic and there were “high cancellations” among business travellers concerned about being trapped overseas for Christmas as Omicron spreads. The UK’s largest airport said the government’s travel restrictions had dealt a fresh blow to travel confidence and predicted it was likely to take several years for passenger numbers to return to pre-pandemic levels. This week ministers said passengers arriving in the UK would have to take a pre-departure Covid test, as well as a post-flight test, because of fears about the spread of the new variant. “[The] high level of cancellations by business travellers concerned about being trapped overseas because of pre-departure testing shows the potential harm to the economy of travel restrictions,” the airport said in an update. Heathrow said the drop in traveller confidence owing to the new travel restrictions had negated the benefit of reopening the all-important corridor to North America for business and holiday travel last month. Eleven African countries have been added to the government’s red list, requiring travellers to quarantine before reuniting with families. “By allowing Brits to isolate at home, ministers can make sure they are reunited with their loved ones this Christmas,” said John Holland-Kaye, the chief executive of Heathrow. “It would send a strong signal that restrictions on travel will be removed as soon as safely possible to give passengers the confidence to book for 2022, opening up thousands of new jobs for local people at Heathrow. Let’s reunite families for Christmas.” Heathrow said that if the government could safely signal that restrictions would be lifted soon, then employers at Heathrow would have the confidence to hire thousands of staff in anticipation of a boost in business next summer. The airport is expecting a slow start to 2022, finishing next year with about 45 million passengers – just over half of pre-pandemic levels. This week Tui, Europe’s largest package holiday operator, said it expected bookings for next summer to bounce back to 2019 levels. However, Heathrow said on Friday not to expect the aviation industry to recover for several years. “We do not expect that international travel will recover to 2019 levels until at least all travel restrictions (including testing) are removed from all the markets that we serve, at both ends of the route, and there is no risk of new restrictions, such as quarantine, being imposed,” the airport said.](https://wordupnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/shutterstock_1100012546-scaled-80x80.jpg)
