The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Business News

Business news, market updates, and economic developments

Stock markets worldwide drop from records as worries about oil prices rattle the bond market

Stock markets worldwide drop from records as worries about oil prices rattle the bond market

Summary

Stock markets around the world fell from record highs as rising oil prices caused concern in the bond market. Technology stocks, especially those linked to artificial intelligence, dropped sharply, and bond yields increased, which can make borrowing more expensive and slow economic growth.

Key Facts

  • The S&P 500 fell 1.1% from its all-time high set the previous day.
  • The Dow Jones dropped 518 points (1%), and the Nasdaq fell 1.4% from its record levels.
  • Technology stocks led the decline, with Nvidia down 3.3%, despite strong gains earlier in the year.
  • Applied Materials’ stock fell 0.7%, even after reporting better-than-expected profit growth.
  • Rising oil prices, driven by a war with Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, pushed Brent crude above $109 per barrel, much higher than the pre-war price of about $70.
  • Increased oil prices have added to inflation, impacting consumer confidence and costs.
  • The yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury note rose from 4.47% to 4.58%, a notable increase, and the 30-year Treasury yield passed 5%, its highest since 2023.
  • Higher bond yields generally lead to higher loan costs, which can slow down economic activity and reduce stock prices.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

California county scam ad lawsuit adds to mounting Meta legal woes

California county scam ad lawsuit adds to mounting Meta legal woes

Summary

Santa Clara County in California filed a lawsuit against Meta, accusing the company of making money from scam ads that harm people. The lawsuit claims Meta allows many scam ads to run, targeting vulnerable users, and profits from this practice. Meta denies the claim and says it actively works to remove scam ads and partners with law enforcement.

Key Facts

  • Santa Clara County sued Meta for profiting from scam advertisements generating $7 billion annually.
  • The lawsuit says Meta only bans scam advertisers if it is 95% sure they are fraudsters.
  • Ads flagged as likely scams can still run if a fee is paid, according to an investigation.
  • Scams involve fake financial offers, cryptocurrency fraud, false medical cures, and celebrity impersonations.
  • California residents lost over $2.5 billion to scams in 2024, with seniors being especially affected.
  • Meta removed 159 million scam ads last year and works with law enforcement to fight scams.
  • The lawsuit represents all California residents, as Meta’s main business is in California and Silicon Valley.
  • Meta faces many lawsuits over issues including privacy, content moderation, and harm to children.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Honda shows off new hybrids for America as it absorbs $9 billion EV loss

Honda shows off new hybrids for America as it absorbs $9 billion EV loss

Summary

Honda has experienced a loss of over $9 billion due to reduced electric vehicle (EV) sales in the U.S., caused by changes in government policies. In response, Honda plans to focus more on hybrid cars, which use both a gasoline engine and battery power, and will launch 15 new hybrid models by 2030, mainly for the North American market.

Key Facts

  • U.S. federal changes reduced EV tax incentives and funding, causing a 28% drop in electric vehicle sales early this year.
  • Honda reported its first-ever operating loss, with more than $9 billion in financial write-downs.
  • Honda cancelled plans to build several EV models in Ohio and a joint venture with Sony.
  • The company plans to develop more hybrid vehicles, which use fewer expensive battery materials compared to full EVs.
  • Honda aims to launch 15 new hybrid models by 2030, including a full-size SUV for the U.S. market.
  • Honda will update U.S. factories to produce hybrids and convert some EV battery production lines to hybrid battery lines.
  • Different regions will get different focus: Japan will get small electric Kei cars, China will focus more on EVs, and India will get mid-size and small vehicles to attract motorcycle users.
  • Honda’s emphasis on hybrids is based on the belief that hybrids will be key to reducing environmental impact in the future.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

What happens to your Social Security if a creditor wins a lawsuit against you?

What happens to your Social Security if a creditor wins a lawsuit against you?

Summary

Social Security benefits are protected by federal law from being taken by private creditors after a debt lawsuit. However, once benefits are deposited into a bank account and mixed with other funds, the extra money may be at risk of being taken by creditors. Federal government agencies, like the IRS, can still garnish Social Security for debts such as taxes or unpaid student loans.

Key Facts

  • Social Security is a main source of income for many older Americans.
  • Private creditors cannot legally take Social Security benefits directly, even after winning a lawsuit.
  • Federal law protects benefits before they reach your bank account.
  • Banks must keep two months’ worth of Social Security funds safe from being frozen or seized.
  • Once benefits are mixed with other money in the bank, extra funds can be taken by creditors.
  • The federal government can garnish Social Security benefits for debts like back taxes, federal student loans, or unpaid child support.
  • If a creditor tries to take your Social Security money wrongly, you have the right to dispute it.
  • It’s important to inform your bank in writing that the money is from Social Security if a levy occurs.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Map Shows Where Gen Z Is Carving Out Its Place in the Housing Market

Map Shows Where Gen Z Is Carving Out Its Place in the Housing Market

Summary

Gen Z, people born between 1997 and 2012, are becoming a bigger part of the U.S. housing market despite high home prices and economic challenges. They made up nearly 20% of mortgage requests nationwide from 2024 to 2025, mostly in affordable regions like the Midwest.

Key Facts

  • Gen Z accounted for 19.9% of mortgage requests from January 2024 to December 2025.
  • Gen Z’s homebuying increased by 9.9% between 2024 and 2025.
  • The median age for first-time homebuyers in the U.S. rose to 40 years old last year.
  • The median U.S. home price was $436,523 in March 2026, up from $295,100 in March 2019.
  • Mortgage interest rates are higher now, averaging 6.36% for a 30-year fixed loan in May 2026.
  • The Midwest has the highest share of Gen Z mortgage applicants, with Minneapolis leading at 26.4%.
  • Coastal cities like Miami and San Francisco have the lowest shares of Gen Z mortgage requests, due to high prices and down payments.
  • Gen Z mortgage applicants had an average credit score of 674 and a typical down payment around $45,000.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

FTSE 100-listed insurer Hiscox’s shares leap amid report of takeover bid

FTSE 100-listed insurer Hiscox’s shares leap amid report of takeover bid

Summary

Hiscox, a UK insurance company, saw its share price rise sharply due to news that Canada’s Intact Financial Corp is considering buying it. This comes during a period of increased foreign interest in British companies, with other firms like Tate & Lyle and Intertek also involved in takeover talks.

Key Facts

  • Hiscox shares rose by up to 15.3% to a record high after takeover talks were reported.
  • Intact Financial Corp, a Canadian insurance company, may acquire Hiscox to grow its business.
  • The takeover report came from the Insurance Post, and Hiscox has not yet commented.
  • Foreign companies are showing strong interest in buying UK-listed businesses right now.
  • Tate & Lyle, a UK ingredients company, received a £2.7 billion offer from US firm Ingredion, pushing its shares up 45%.
  • Intertek, a UK laboratory testing company, is considering a £10.6 billion offer from Swedish investor EQT.
  • Intertek had previously rejected offers but is now leaning toward recommending the deal to shareholders.
  • Activist investor Matt Peltz has urged Intertek to accept the takeover offer.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Mamdani's $12 Billion Debt Wipeout Plan Has a Lesson for Your Finances

Mamdani's $12 Billion Debt Wipeout Plan Has a Lesson for Your Finances

Summary

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani announced a new budget plan to eliminate the city’s $12 billion debt without burdening working residents. The plan includes higher taxes on the wealthiest and financial aid from New York State, showing that increasing income is a bigger factor in improving finances than cutting small daily expenses.

Key Facts

  • NYC’s $12 billion debt will be erased without hurting working New Yorkers.
  • The budget includes a 2% personal income tax increase on the richest residents.
  • A $4 billion aid package from Albany greatly helped reduce the debt.
  • Experts say raising income matters more than cutting small expenses like daily coffee.
  • Nearly 25% of US households live paycheck to paycheck, with wages not keeping up with inflation.
  • Increasing income could mean negotiating pay, changing jobs, or creating a second income source.
  • Cutting small expenses saves money but doesn’t have as large an impact as higher earnings.
  • Some people struggle to get ahead financially despite reducing spending because wages are stagnant.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

What are the risks of trying to settle debt on your own?

What are the risks of trying to settle debt on your own?

Summary

Many people in the U.S. have high credit card debt with interest rates around 22%, causing financial problems. Some try to settle their debt on their own by negotiating with creditors, but this approach has risks like legal action and tax issues.

Key Facts

  • Credit card debt levels in the U.S. are at record highs.
  • Average credit card interest rates are close to 22%.
  • Many borrowers are late on payments and facing collections.
  • Settling debt means negotiating to pay less than what is owed.
  • Doing this alone can cause timing mistakes, leading to lawsuits or collections.
  • Creditors can sue for the full debt and may garnish wages or freeze bank accounts.
  • Forgiven debt may be taxed as income by the IRS.
  • Professional help can sometimes prevent legal problems and explain tax rules.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Postal Service releases special edition bald eagle stamps for America’s 250th

Postal Service releases special edition bald eagle stamps for America’s 250th

Summary

The U.S. Postal Service is issuing special stamps to celebrate America's 250th birthday. These stamps show the bald eagle at five different stages of its life, from young chick to adult.

Key Facts

  • The Postal Service is marking the nation's 250th anniversary with new stamps.
  • The stamps feature the bald eagle, a symbol of the United States.
  • They show the eagle at five key life stages, including the hatchling and adult.
  • The stamp launch event took place at the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, Minnesota.
  • The bald eagle is recognized as a national icon.
  • These stamps are a special edition to honor this milestone birthday for America.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Starbucks to lay off 300 US corporate workers and close regional offices

Starbucks to lay off 300 US corporate workers and close regional offices

Summary

Starbucks announced it will lay off 300 corporate workers and close some offices in the United States as part of changes to improve the company. The layoffs will only affect office employees, not workers at coffee shops. Starbucks is also thinking about changes in its offices outside the U.S.

Key Facts

  • Starbucks will lay off 300 corporate employees in the U.S.
  • The company plans to close some regional offices in the United States.
  • The layoffs affect only support staff in areas like marketing, human resources, and supply chain management.
  • No employees working at Starbucks coffee shops will lose their jobs.
  • Currently, no international staff are being laid off.
  • Starbucks is reviewing its corporate structure outside the U.S. but has not made decisions yet.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Are adjustable-rate mortgages worth considering right now? Here's what experts say

Are adjustable-rate mortgages worth considering right now? Here's what experts say

Summary

Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARMs) currently have lower starting interest rates than fixed-rate mortgages, making monthly payments cheaper at first. However, because ARM rates can change after a few years, borrowers face the risk of higher payments later, especially given today's uncertain economic conditions.

Key Facts

  • Fixed 30-year mortgage rates are around 6.4%, while 5/1 ARM loans average about 5.6%.
  • A lower ARM rate can reduce monthly payments by roughly $150 on a $300,000 loan.
  • ARMs have an initial fixed rate period, after which the rate can change periodically.
  • Changes in ARM rates depend on market conditions and may increase payments over time.
  • Experts predict ARM rates could drop further in 2026, but this is not guaranteed.
  • Economic factors like inflation, oil prices, labor markets, and global conflicts cause interest rates to be volatile.
  • Borrowers should weigh short-term savings against the potential risk of rising costs in the future when considering ARMs.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Exclusive discounts from CBS Mornings Deals

Exclusive discounts from CBS Mornings Deals

Summary

CBS Mornings Deals offers special discounts on everyday items. Viewers can find these deals at cbsdeals.com, where CBS earns a commission on purchases made through the site.

Key Facts

  • CBS Mornings Deals features products that could be useful daily.
  • Discounts are available exclusively through the CBS Deals website.
  • The website to visit for these deals is cbsdeals.com.
  • CBS earns money when people buy items through their deal site.
  • The deals were promoted on CBS Mornings, a news and talk show.
  • The article encourages viewers to take advantage of these special offers.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Trump says China will buy 200 planes from Boeing, with a possibility of expanding the deal to 750

Trump says China will buy 200 planes from Boeing, with a possibility of expanding the deal to 750

Summary

President Donald Trump announced that Boeing will sell 200 airplanes to China, a deal made during his recent meeting with China's President Xi Jinping. The deal could increase to 750 planes and also involve General Electric supplying 400 to 450 engines.

Key Facts

  • Boeing is expected to sell 200 airplanes to China, with the possibility to expand to 750 planes.
  • The deal was announced by President Donald Trump after his summit with China's President Xi Jinping.
  • Boeing has not officially commented on the sale, nor has the White House released detailed information.
  • General Electric is expected to supply 400 to 450 engines for the planes.
  • Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg joined President Trump on the trip to Beijing.
  • Boeing has faced production and safety challenges in 2024, including issues with the 737 Max model.
  • The U.S. Justice Department restarted then dismissed a criminal case against Boeing related to two fatal Max crashes after Boeing agreed to pay fines and compensate victims.
  • An eight-week strike by Boeing machinists disrupted production and added financial pressure on the company.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Ticketmaster Said Queue System Was Random—Now, Its President Isn’t So Sure

Ticketmaster Said Queue System Was Random—Now, Its President Isn’t So Sure

Summary

Ticketmaster’s president publicly stated that the company has never confirmed its ticket queue positions are assigned randomly, raising questions about how fair the ticket-buying process really is. This comes after a court ruled that Ticketmaster’s parent company, Live Nation, holds illegal monopoly power in the ticketing market, leading to higher prices for customers.

Key Facts

  • A 2026 Manhattan jury found Live Nation, Ticketmaster’s parent company, guilty of illegal monopoly power in the ticketing industry.
  • The ruling said Live Nation’s control reduced competition and increased ticket prices by about $1.72 per ticket on average.
  • Ticketmaster’s global president, Saumil Mehta, said the company never officially stated that queue positions for buying tickets are random.
  • In 2018, Ticketmaster had said its virtual waiting room assigns queue positions randomly to keep ticket sales fair and prevent bots.
  • It is unclear if Ticketmaster’s messaging on how queues work has changed or if the system itself has changed.
  • Fans often question the fairness of ticket queues, especially during high-demand sales and presales.
  • Ticketmaster controls an estimated 63% of primary ticket sales in the United States.
  • The company faces ongoing scrutiny from regulators and lawmakers over ticket pricing, resale, and market dominance.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Popcorn Recall Over Undeclared Allergen Sparks Consumer Risk Warning

Popcorn Recall Over Undeclared Allergen Sparks Consumer Risk Warning

Summary

Prospector Popcorn recalled some of its Belgian Chocolate Toffee-flavored popcorn because it contains soy, an allergen not listed on the package. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave this recall a Class II risk warning, meaning the product could cause temporary or reversible health problems for some people.

Key Facts

  • The recall was announced on April 28 by Prospector Popcorn, a Connecticut company.
  • The product recalled is Belgian Chocolate Toffee-flavored popcorn, with 140 bags affected.
  • The popcorn contains undeclared soy lecithin, which is a common allergen.
  • The FDA classified the recall as Class II, indicating possible temporary or reversible health issues.
  • The popcorn was sold in Connecticut and New York.
  • The affected products have expiration dates between August 5 and October 24, 2026.
  • No illnesses related to the recalled popcorn were reported by May 14.
  • Soy is one of the nine major food allergens, which also include milk, eggs, peanuts, and others.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Pound heads for worst week in 18 months as Burnham lines up Labour bid

Pound heads for worst week in 18 months as Burnham lines up Labour bid

Summary

The British pound dropped to its lowest level in five weeks, heading for its worst week in a year and a half, due to concerns about possible UK leadership changes. Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is planning to challenge Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which worried investors about potential increases in government borrowing and spending.

Key Facts

  • The pound fell by about 2% to $1.336, its weakest point in five weeks.
  • This is the largest weekly drop against the US dollar since President Trump’s 2024 election win.
  • Andy Burnham intends to run for parliament and may challenge Keir Starmer for prime minister.
  • UK government bond yields rose sharply, signaling higher borrowing costs.
  • Yields on 10-year UK bonds hit nearly 5.17%, the highest since 2008.
  • Investors fear Burnham could loosen fiscal rules and increase government debt.
  • Burnham said earlier that the UK is trapped in low economic growth and debt problems but has softened his stance recently.
  • The political uncertainty is causing instability in financial markets and could last for some time.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

America’s energy comeback is leaving green fantasies behind

America’s energy comeback is leaving green fantasies behind

Summary

The United States is becoming a leading energy power again by growing its oil, gas, coal, and nuclear industries. This shift comes after reduced support for expensive wind and solar energy that require large amounts of land.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. energy industry includes fossil fuels like oil, gas, and coal.
  • Nuclear power is becoming more important in the country’s energy mix.
  • Wind and solar energy have faced criticism for being costly and taking up much land.
  • There were past efforts by environmental groups to limit fossil fuel use.
  • The U.S. aims to strengthen its position as a global energy leader.
  • The energy changes affect the economy and how the country produces power.
  • This development marks a change from previous energy policies focused mainly on renewables.
  • The article highlights a practical approach to energy rather than idealistic or purely environmental goals.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Heathrow rival could lead expansion, watchdog says

Heathrow rival could lead expansion, watchdog says

Summary

The UK's aviation watchdog, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), is considering new rules that may force Heathrow Airport to allow other companies to compete in building its proposed third runway and terminal. These changes aim to control construction costs and protect airlines and passengers from high fees.

Key Facts

  • Heathrow wants to build a third runway and a new terminal as part of a £33 billion expansion plan.
  • The CAA is exploring four regulatory changes, including tighter spending controls and allowing rival developers to bid on construction.
  • One idea is to let another company design, finance, build, and run the new terminal in competition with Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL).
  • This competition would require a change in government policy on airport expansion.
  • The UK government currently favors Heathrow’s plan over a rival proposal by the Arora Group, which suggested a shorter, less costly runway.
  • Heathrow’s expansion aims to increase airport capacity to 756,000 flights and 150 million passengers annually.
  • Heathrow says it supports reforms that improve efficiency but opposes those that could delay the project or harm economic growth.
  • A final planning decision on Heathrow’s expansion is expected by 2029.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Beckhams and Gallagher brothers make Sunday Times Rich List

Beckhams and Gallagher brothers make Sunday Times Rich List

Summary

The Sunday Times Rich List for the UK has named Sir David Beckham, his wife Victoria, and Oasis brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher among the wealthiest people. The list ranks the richest individuals and families based on their estimated wealth, with the Hinduja brothers topping it for the fifth year in a row.

Key Facts

  • Sir David Beckham and Lady Victoria have an estimated combined wealth of £1.1 billion.
  • Noel and Liam Gallagher are estimated to be worth £375 million.
  • The Hinduja brothers lead the list with a fortune of £38 billion.
  • This year, the list shows 157 UK billionaires, down from 177 four years ago.
  • King Charles has a wealth of £680 million, ranking him higher than former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and his wife.
  • Some wealthy individuals have left the list due to moving abroad, including foreign nationals and UK citizens now living outside Britain.
  • Emily Eavis and her family, known for organizing the Glastonbury festival, were added as new entrants with an estimated wealth of £400 million.
  • The "40 under 40" Rich List includes Tyson Fury and many self-made entrepreneurs, especially those linked to London-based AI startups.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Coffee chain sorry for banning teens revising for school exams

Coffee chain sorry for banning teens revising for school exams

Summary

A coffee shop called Coffi Lab in Whitchurch, Cardiff, apologized after banning students from studying there during exam time. The cafe removed the ban and said it was overwhelmed by students staying a long time and not always buying food or drinks.

Key Facts

  • Coffi Lab put up a sign banning students from studying in the cafe without an adult.
  • The ban was due to students spending long hours there, often without buying anything.
  • The sign referred students to use the library across the street for studying.
  • The cafe later removed the sign and apologized for the way it handled the situation.
  • A father said his 15-year-old son and friends were politely asked to leave while revising for exams.
  • Coffi Lab said staff felt the situation put pressure on the cafe’s capacity and other customers’ comfort.
  • The ban was described by the cafe as a temporary measure while working with the local school.
  • The coffee chain said it wants its spaces to be welcoming to everyone in the community.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.