For some Americans, the most important part of Thanksgiving is the food. But others are looking for a much more chilled out celebration; sales of marijuana spike in the US by up to a quarter on the days before and after the holiday, as people seek out ways to take the edge off.

When we run into trouble, friends and family have our backs. And it's a good job – with payday lenders charging extortionate fees and trust in banks low, who do financially fragile Gen Y turn to when they're in need? This alternative lender will front you cash, whilst taking pressure off your pals.

Whether it’s splitting the bill at a bar or sharing a cab fare home, paying your peers can be an awkward hassle. Mobile wallet app Venmo is changing this with a social media-style digital payment system that lets you instantly transfer money between friends. Could Venmo kill cash for good?

When we think ‘stoner’, we rarely picture a female – but legalisation in the US is turning the tide on weed culture. An increasing number of women are now ‘out’ about their toking habit and some are getting into the industry, suggesting that when it comes to cannabis, the future might just be female.