POSTAL SERVICE RECORDS LOSS FOR 12TH YEAR IN ROW

The U.S. Postal Service reported a financial loss for the 12th consecutive year, citing declines in mail volume and costs of pension and health care obligations. Officials said they expect

2019 finances to be helped by a strong holiday season and an increase in the price of first-class stamps from 50 to

55 cents, which takes effect in January. The USPS reported a loss of $3.9 billion for the budget year ending Sept. 30, compared with a $2.7 billion loss the year before.