WebCE's Weekly Wrap-Up: November 7, 2025
WebCE Staff
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November 7, 2025
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From a museum security lapse that reads like fiction to major federal updates shaping drug prices, taxes, and insurance oversight, this week delivered no shortage of headlines across the professional landscape. Financial regulators issued hefty fines, cyber insurers braced for a surge in AI-driven threats, and new polling revealed the growing financial strain facing Floridians. Real estate professionals also voiced concerns about the impact of the government shutdown on housing programs nationwide.
Let's dive in.
Top News of the Week
Password to Louvre’s video surveillance system was 'Louvre', according to employee (ABC News)
“At the time of the brazen heist of $102 million in jewels from the Louvre last month, the password to the world-famous museum's video surveillance system was simply "Louvre," according to a museum employee with knowledge of the system.”
Trump announces lower prices, Medicare coverage for popular weight-loss drugs (USA Today)
“The negotiated deals will allow Medicare and Medicaid coverage for Lilly's Zepbound and Novo's Wegovy, and consumers will be able to purchase drugs at discounted prices through the federal government's direct-to-consumer website, TrumpRx, which will launch in 2026.”
Agents Key to Preventing Frozen Pipe Damage (Insurance Thought Leadership)
“In today's ever-changing property market, the agent's role is no longer limited to securing coverage; it's about helping clients prevent losses that threaten their eligibility altogether. Homeowners now expect their insurance partners to act as risk advisors, not just intermediaries.”
FINRA Fines First Trust Portfolios $10 Million for Violations Relating to Gifts and Entertainment (FINRA)
"First Trust provided gifts, meals and entertainment to representatives of retail broker-dealers (client firms) that sold First Trust investment company securities, which significantly exceeded FINRA limits for non-cash compensation. In certain instances, First Trust preconditioned the non-cash compensation on client firm representatives achieving sales targets with respect to First Trust products (e.g., exchange-traded funds and unit investment trusts). In addition, First Trust wholesalers, who are generally responsible for marketing and selling financial products to client firms, falsified internal expense records, and First Trust sent client firms reports containing inaccurate information about the value, nature and frequency of non-cash compensation that First Trust provided to client firm representatives.”
Research Report Shows Cyber Insurance Growing 15% in 2026 on AI And Data Threats (Claims Journal)
“AI’s potential to create and accelerate new threats from cybercriminals is outpacing the defensive capabilities of many organizations, the report’s authors concluded, leading to an increase in successful attacks...The report’s authors believe cyber insurers should become proactive partners in cybersecurity by providing cyber defense services, risk mitigation tools and innovative ways to underwrite new risks posed by AI.”
BEPI Poll: Half of Floridians Consider Leaving Over Cost of Living (Florida Atlantic Univeristy)
“For most Floridians, financial security feels one expense away from collapse,” Escaleras said. “Many of those surveyed attributed the high cost of living to not being able to save more.” Nearly 50% of Floridians surveyed say they have considered moving out of Florida due to the cost of livin
Could a Professional Doctorate in Accounting Help Solve the Accounting Faculty Shortage? (The CPA Journal)
If not remedied, the current shortage of academically qualified accounting faculty stands to affect student learning and the fulfillment of universities’ missions. This article examines the present environment and prior attempts to address the issue. The authors conclude with a proposal for a professional doctorate that could both alleviate the shortage and provide other benefits to accounting education.
IRS Direct File won’t be available next year. Here’s what that means for taxpayers (Associated Press)
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who is also the current IRS commissioner, told reporters at the White House on Wednesday that there are “better alternatives” to Direct File. “It wasn’t used very much,” he said. “And we think that the private sector can do a better job.”
Employers get reporting relief on tips, overtime; won’t face penalties for tax year 2025 (Journal of Accountancy)
“An IRS notice said employers and other payers will not face penalties for tax year 2025 if they do not provide a separate accounting of amounts reasonably designated as cash tips or the total amount of qualified overtime compensation as required by information-reporting provisions in the sweeping new tax law.”
NAR Members Sound the Alarm on the Effects of the Government Shutdown (REALTOR Magazine)
“Responses from more than 600 real estate professionals describe the negative effects of closing crucial housing, loan and insurance programs offered through FHA, HUD, VA and NFIP.”
Top Podcast of the Week
The Blueprint for Authentic Social Media Storytelling
Real Estate Insiders Unfiltered
Beverly W. Jackson, VP of Brand and Product Marketing at Zillow, joins the show to discuss her mastery of brand storytelling. She explains the critical difference between data and insights, and how Zillow uses culture and emotion, not just search, to connect with consumers. Beverly provides agents with a tactical, step-by-step guide to developing their personal brand, from selecting the right gear and platforms to using their vulnerability and lived experience to attract clients.
Weekend Wind-Down
“When your Realtor will literally walk across water for you”
One realtor went viral on TikTok for after accidentally walking onto a pool cover while giving a tour of the patio. The video has amassed nearly 8 million views. Check it out below: