Verizon hikes prices with new optionsNEW YORK — Verizon is hiking prices on its cell phone plans, though the new rates come with changes that might actually save you money.If you do nothing, your prices won’t automatically go up. But new benefits announced Wednesday — including better options when traveling in Canada and Mexico — require you to switch to the new rates.

Hoverboard recall warns of fires, burnsNEW YORK — More than 500,000 hoverboards are being recalled after some of the motorized scooters overheated, burned riders and damaged property.There have been 99 reports to the Consumer Product Safety Commission of hoverboard battery packs that exploded or caught fire, the U.S. regulator said Wednesday. At least 18 injuries were reported, such as burns to the neck, legs or arms, according to the CPSC. Property damages were also reported.The CPSC warned hoverboard makers and retailers earlier this year that they had to follow newly created safety requirements or face recalls. Many airlines, railroads and college campuses have already banned hoverboards, citing safety risks.

US services firms enjoy grow in JuneWASHINGTON — U.S. services firms expanded last month at the fastest pace since November, good news for the U.S. economy.The Institute for Supply Management said Wednesday that its nonmanufacturing index rose to 56.5 in June from 52.9 in May. Any reading above 50 signals growth. Production, new orders and export orders grew faster in June. Employment grew last month after contracting in May.Services have been a source of strength for the American economy. The ISM services index has shown growth for 77 straight months.