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From water to council tax: How the bill rises (and one drop) affect you

From water to council tax: How the bill rises (and one drop) affect you

March 31, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Recently, various household bills in the UK have increased, such as council tax, water, internet, and vehicle excise duty. While energy bills temporarily decreased, they are expected to rise again soon. Minimum wage has gone up, and some benefits for lower-income individuals are set to increase.

Key Facts

  • Household energy bills in the UK have dropped by 7% but are expected to rise again in July.
  • Council tax in England has increased by an average of 4.9%.
  • Water bills in England and Wales have gone up by £33 on average.
  • Internet and TV providers have increased prices, adding nearly £50 yearly to bills.
  • Vehicle Excise Duty for cars registered after April 2017 has risen to £200.
  • The cost of a TV licence has increased from £174.50 to £180 a year.
  • Air Passenger Duty, a tax on flights from the UK, is also set to rise.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
KFC Makes Big Menu Update

KFC Makes Big Menu Update

March 31, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

KFC has introduced new Box Feasts in the U.S. that offer meals with chicken, fries, and a drink at different price points to attract budget-conscious customers. These new offerings aim to provide more value amid rising fast-food prices, using pricing strategies similar to those of Taco Bell.

Key Facts

  • KFC launched new Box Feasts with meals priced at $7, $9, and $11.
  • Each Box Feast includes chicken, fries, and a drink.
  • The dishes feature smaller options like the KFC Snacker, which can be customized.
  • The pricing aims to provide significant discounts compared to buying items separately.
  • KFC is trying to boost its performance in the U.S. chicken market, where it has seen modest sales growth.
  • The company is focusing on offering value deals as part of its strategy to attract more customers.
  • Prices and availability of these Box Feasts may vary by location, especially in California, Alaska, and Hawaii.
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Newsweek
National average for gas tops $4 a gallon, the highest since 2022

National average for gas tops $4 a gallon, the highest since 2022

March 31, 2026 • PBS NewsHour

Summary

Gas prices in the U.S. are now over $4 a gallon for the first time since 2022, mainly due to a conflict involving Iran, the U.S., and Israel. This situation is causing problems for supply chains and pushing up the cost of crude oil, which is affecting prices globally. Analysts warn that if the situation continues, prices could go even higher.

Key Facts

  • U.S. gas prices have climbed above $4 a gallon, the highest since 2022.
  • The conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran is a key reason for the price increase.
  • Crude oil prices have risen to over $100 per barrel, up from about $70.
  • Supply chain disruptions and reduced oil production are contributors to the rising costs.
  • High gas prices are having a wide impact, including increasing the cost of groceries and other goods.
  • Many U.S. adults are worried about the ability to afford gas in the coming months.
  • The U.S. Postal Service is adding temporary charges due to increased transport costs.
  • Diesel prices are also up, reaching $5.45 a gallon compared to $3.76 before the conflict.
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PBS NewsHour
Oil nears highest price since start of Iran war

Oil nears highest price since start of Iran war

March 31, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

The price of Brent crude oil has risen to $119 per barrel, nearing its highest point since the US-Israel conflict with Iran began. The conflict has led to the blockage of a key sea route, impacting oil prices worldwide and causing fuel prices to rise. Countries are responding in different ways to the increase in oil costs.

Key Facts

  • Brent crude oil price reached $119 per barrel, close to its highest since the start of the US-Israel conflict with Iran.
  • Iran blocked the Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for oil shipments due to US-Israel airstrikes on 28 February.
  • Petrol prices in the US have risen to over $4 a gallon for the first time in nearly four years.
  • In the UK, petrol prices have increased to 152.8p per litre, the highest in two years.
  • The average diesel price in the UK rose to 182.77p, its highest level since December 2022.
  • Jet fuel shipments to the UK from the Middle East have decreased, impacting airlines.
  • European airline companies are taking measures like fare increases and flight cancellations to deal with higher fuel costs.
  • The UK continues to receive jet fuel from countries like India, the USA, and the Netherlands.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Private equity's next step into 401(k)s

Private equity's next step into 401(k)s

March 31, 2026 • Axios

Summary

The Department of Labor, under President Trump's administration, announced a proposal to allow more alternative assets, like private equity, in 401(k) retirement plans. The rule focuses on setting up a process for these investments, rather than instantly declaring them good for increasing returns. This proposal is open for public comment for the next two months.

Key Facts

  • The Department of Labor proposed new rules for including alternative assets in 401(k) plans.
  • The proposal will be open for public comments for two months.
  • The focus is on creating a rule-based approach rather than a litigation-focused one.
  • The terms "prudent" or "prudently" appear over 100 times in the proposal, indicating careful consideration.
  • The rule does not specify if assets like private equity will improve investment performance.
  • There is an expectation of significant public feedback, especially concerns about higher risks.
  • The initiative is part of President Trump's broader plan to increase Americans' access to capital markets.
  • Private equity firms are preparing to promote their products if the new rule is implemented.
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Axios
Denby appoints administrators in 'necessary step'

Denby appoints administrators in 'necessary step'

March 31, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Denby, a well-known pottery company in Derbyshire, has appointed administrators due to financial struggles from high costs and reduced demand. The firm aims to find a buyer or investor to continue operations while still fulfilling orders. The company's international subsidiaries in Korea, the USA, and China remain unaffected.

Key Facts

  • Denby has appointed administrators following financial pressure from increased costs and decreased demand.
  • A notice of intention to appoint administrators was filed as a precaution on 11 March to protect from creditors.
  • The firm has until 8 April to find a buyer, administrator, or enter liquidation.
  • The #SaveDenby campaign sought public support to help the business, gaining significant engagement.
  • Denby's CEO expressed concerns about saving the company despite efforts.
  • Denby employs 600 people in the UK, with most working at its main site between Denby and Ripley.
  • The company is continuing to trade while in administration, managed by FRP Advisory.
  • International subsidiaries in Korea, the USA, and China will keep operating as normal.
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BBC Business
US Housing Market Sees Record $347 Billion ‘Stale’ Home Listings

US Housing Market Sees Record $347 Billion ‘Stale’ Home Listings

March 31, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Over half of all homes for sale in the U.S. have been listed for more than two months, amounting to $347 billion in unsold properties. The housing market is sluggish partly due to high mortgage rates, impacted by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which is keeping potential buyers away. This trend is mostly seen in markets like Miami, Florida, and parts of Texas, where the number of homes for sale outpaces interested buyers.

Key Facts

  • The U.S. has $347 billion worth of homes listed for over two months.
  • This amount is the highest recorded for this time of the year.
  • The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is affecting real estate by raising mortgage rates.
  • February home sales dropped by 3.7% compared to last year.
  • There are 630,000 more sellers than buyers, leading to homes staying unsold for longer.
  • Miami, Florida, has the highest percentage of unsold homes, with 62.6% of listings stale.
  • California markets like San Jose and San Francisco have fewer stale listings due to high demand.
  • Rising mortgage rates discourage potential buyers despite available inventory.
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Newsweek
'KPop Demon Hunters' McDonald's Meals Are Here — Menu and How To Get One

'KPop Demon Hunters' McDonald's Meals Are Here — Menu and How To Get One

March 31, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

McDonald's has teamed up with Netflix to promote their new movie "KPop Demon Hunters" by offering special meals inspired by the film. These meals will be available in the U.S. starting March 31 and come with collectible items and access to exclusive digital content.

Key Facts

  • McDonald's partnered with Netflix to create meals based on the movie "KPop Demon Hunters."
  • The movie features two rival music groups, HUNTR/X and Saja Boys.
  • Starting March 31, McDonald's in the U.S. will offer two special meals tied to the film.
  • The Saja Boys Breakfast Meal includes a Spicy Saja McMuffin, hash browns, and a drink.
  • The HUNTR/X Meal features Chicken McNuggets, seasoned fries, and exclusive sauces.
  • Each meal comes with collectible photocards and a Derpy access card.
  • Fans can use a QR code in the McDonald's app to unlock special content by April 26.
  • A new dessert, the Derpy McFlurry, is also part of the promotion.
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Newsweek
US gas price tops $4 for first time since 2022

US gas price tops $4 for first time since 2022

March 31, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

The average price of gasoline in the U.S. has risen to over $4 a gallon for the first time in nearly four years. This increase is due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has impacted the global oil supply. Higher crude oil prices and increased demand during spring break have contributed to the rise in fuel costs.

Key Facts

  • The national average price for a gallon of regular gas in the U.S. is now $4.02.
  • The price for diesel is $5.45, about $1.70 higher than before the conflict started.
  • The conflict in Iran has led to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, slowing energy production and transport.
  • Crude oil prices have surged since the conflict began on February 28.
  • Before the conflict, gas in the U.S. averaged $2.98 per gallon.
  • AAA reports that increased gas demand during the spring break season is also pushing up prices.
  • The last time gas prices were this high was in August 2022.
  • While U.S. gas prices have increased, they are still below the record highs of June 2022.
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BBC Business
Employee Excited For Annual Party Not Ready For How They're 'Taunted' Later

Employee Excited For Annual Party Not Ready For How They're 'Taunted' Later

March 31, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A worker shared on Reddit that a company event they were looking forward to turned into a source of frustration. The company had to make changes to the annual crawfish boil due to shortages and focused instead on preparing for customer tours. This situation raised concerns about workplace communication and respect.

Key Facts

  • A worker posted on Reddit about a disappointing company event originally meant as a crawfish boil.
  • The company announced a shortage of crawfish and shifted the focus of the event to customer tours.
  • Management's message instructed employees to clean the workplace for these tours.
  • 350 people had already RSVPed for the event before changes were announced.
  • The event was reframed as a "Customer Appreciation" event.
  • The situation led to discussions about workplace respect and proper communication.
  • Experts highlighted the importance of clear communication and its impact on employee morale.
  • The company involved wasn't named, and further details about the event's outcome weren't provided.
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Newsweek
Exclusive: Jamie Dimon's plan to rescue the American Dream

Exclusive: Jamie Dimon's plan to rescue the American Dream

March 31, 2026 • Axios

Summary

JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon announced a new program called the American Dream Initiative, which aims to boost economic opportunities for people in the U.S. The plan involves investing in small businesses, affordable housing, and job training. This initiative is part of Dimon's belief that enhancing local economies will benefit both the bank and the country.

Key Facts

  • JPMorgan Chase is launching the American Dream Initiative.
  • The initiative aims to invest in small businesses, affordable housing, and job training.
  • $80 billion is planned for small business lending over the next decade.
  • 115,000 small business owners will receive mentoring by 2030.
  • 1,000 new small business bankers will be hired in 5,000 branches.
  • The goal is to increase small business clients from 7 million to 10 million.
  • The program builds on a previous initiative focusing on manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure.
  • Additional local investments and partnerships will be announced in the future.
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Axios
Housing market to soften amid Iran war fallout, Nationwide says

Housing market to soften amid Iran war fallout, Nationwide says

March 31, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

The UK's housing market is expected to slow down due to higher mortgage and energy costs linked to the conflict in Iran, according to Nationwide. The rise in energy prices and adjusted interest rate expectations are causing lenders to increase mortgage rates. This could lead to a decrease in housing affordability.

Key Facts

  • Nationwide reported a 0.9% rise in UK house prices in March.
  • Energy prices have surged due to the conflict in Iran, affecting the global economy.
  • Mortgage rates are increasing as lenders adjust to expected interest rate hikes.
  • Nationwide warned of more market impacts if the Middle East conflict continues.
  • Average two-year fixed mortgage rates rose to 5.75% in late March.
  • The average cost of a UK property rose to £277,186 in March.
  • The Bank of England's plan to lower rates changed to expectations of rate increases.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
List of Companies Laying Off Employees in April

List of Companies Laying Off Employees in April

March 31, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

Many companies in the U.S., from various sectors like food, insurance, and logistics, are planning layoffs in April 2023. These job cuts are part of a larger trend of workforce reductions influenced by factors such as automation, cost-cutting, and economic pressures.

Key Facts

  • Companies like Perdue Foods and Blue Shield of America announced layoffs in April.
  • The layoffs affect several industries, including airlines, healthcare, and logistics.
  • WARN notices indicate that hundreds of job cuts occurred in the first quarter of the year.
  • Major firms like Amazon and Meta announced earlier layoffs stretching into future months.
  • Experts cite cost-cutting and adjusting to pandemic-era hiring as reasons for layoffs.
  • There are concerns that automation and economic pressures are driving job losses.
  • Additional layoffs may occur in April and May as restructuring plans are finalized.
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Newsweek
If OpenAI is to float on the stock market this year, it needs to start turning a profit

If OpenAI is to float on the stock market this year, it needs to start turning a profit

March 31, 2026 • Guardian Tech

Summary

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, needs to start making profits if it wants to go public this year. It is currently spending a lot of money but is not profitable yet, and has recently stopped several projects to focus its business before an expected stock market listing.

Key Facts

  • OpenAI is valued at $850 billion but is not yet profitable.
  • The company plans to spend $600 billion on infrastructure by 2030, down from an earlier estimate of $1.4 trillion.
  • OpenAI may burn through half a trillion dollars before turning a profit by the end of the decade.
  • Recently, OpenAI ended its Instant Checkout shopping feature after a 5-month trial.
  • It also shut down Sora, a video-generation platform tied to a $1 billion deal with Disney.
  • OpenAI cancelled plans for adult-themed chatbot conversations due to safety and public relations concerns.
  • These moves are seen as efforts to streamline OpenAI’s business ahead of a likely initial public offering (IPO).
  • The company’s annualized revenue was reportedly $25 billion as of early March, but investors want proof of growth and profitability.
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Guardian Tech
Korean Air takes emergency action as fuel prices soar

Korean Air takes emergency action as fuel prices soar

March 31, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

Korean Air is taking emergency steps to handle the rising costs of jet fuel caused by the ongoing US-Israel conflict with Iran. The airline announced plans to reduce internal costs to maintain financial stability amid increasing oil prices. Other South Korean airlines, including Asiana Airlines and Busan Air, are also adopting similar measures.

Key Facts

  • Korean Air is responding to the surge in fuel costs by entering emergency management mode.
  • Brent crude oil prices have increased by more than 50% since the Iran conflict started.
  • Korean Air plans to implement cost-reduction measures tied to oil price fluctuations.
  • These changes aim to ensure the airline's financial stability during economic uncertainty.
  • The average jet fuel price reached nearly $200 a barrel as of late March.
  • South Korea relies heavily on oil imports from the Middle East, making it vulnerable to these price changes.
  • Other South Korean airlines, Asiana Airlines and Busan Air, have also declared emergency management efforts.
  • All three airlines are part of the Hanjin Group.
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BBC Business
'I sent eight letters': Drivers hope for payout from car finance redress scheme

'I sent eight letters': Drivers hope for payout from car finance redress scheme

March 31, 2026 • BBC Business

Summary

A scheme has been set up for drivers in the UK to receive compensation if they were mis-sold car finance. The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) says that about 40% of loans given between 2007 and 2024 may qualify. Drivers must file claims to potentially get money back if they were not informed about certain commission arrangements between dealers and lenders.

Key Facts

  • The FCA has identified that around 40% of car loans from April 2007 to November 2024 could be eligible for compensation.
  • This compensation is due to people not being informed about discretionary commission arrangements on their car loans.
  • Millions of people are expected to receive payouts this year, with an average amount of £829.
  • The FCA banned discretionary commission arrangements in 2021 due to concerns about inflated interest rates.
  • It is estimated that 12 million people might be entitled to compensation, which is fewer than a previous estimate of 14 million.
  • The redress scheme allows claims to be filed directly with lenders without needing to go to court, although some are using claims firms or lawyers.
  • Borrowers are warned to be cautious of scammers pretending to be part of this compensation process.
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BBC Business BBC Top Stories
Job Applicant Gets Rejected—Called 'Legend' For What He Does Next

Job Applicant Gets Rejected—Called 'Legend' For What He Does Next

March 31, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A job applicant completed a detailed project for a potential employer but was rejected. In response, the applicant sent the company a $900 invoice, claiming the work was equivalent to consultancy. This action sparked online debate about unpaid labor during hiring processes.

Key Facts

  • A job seeker claimed to have spent nine hours on a take-home assignment for a potential employer.
  • The assignment included three interview rounds and a six-page project.
  • After being rejected, the applicant sent a $900 invoice to the company for the work completed.
  • Screenshots showed the invoice billed eight hours at $100 per hour, plus one hour for presentation materials.
  • The applicant explained their work was similar to consulting-level tasks and requested payment within 14 days.
  • Online reactions largely supported the applicant's action, highlighting issues with unpaid labor in job applications.
  • Experts warn that assignments in job interviews can sometimes resemble unpaid consulting work.
  • It remains unclear if the company will pay the invoice or how they have responded.
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Newsweek
Woman Uses New Ikea Purchase—Horror At What It Does: 'Needs To Be Recalled'

Woman Uses New Ikea Purchase—Horror At What It Does: 'Needs To Be Recalled'

March 31, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

A woman reported that a glass spoon from Ikea broke during use, causing her injury. She shared this incident on Reddit, prompting others to share similar experiences and express concerns about the product's safety.

Key Facts

  • A woman bought glass spoons from Ikea, which broke during use, injuring her thumb.
  • She shared her experience on Reddit, warning others about the product.
  • The woman claimed she did not use excessive force when the spoon broke.
  • Other Reddit users shared similar experiences with glass kitchenware breaking easily.
  • There were calls for the product to be recalled due to safety concerns.
  • Glass kitchenware is often seen as a safer alternative, but it can have durability issues.
  • Ikea was contacted for a comment, but details of the case remain unverified.
  • The story was assisted by an AI tool used by Newsweek writers.
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Newsweek
Why the benefit used by over 8 million people may not be fit for the future

Why the benefit used by over 8 million people may not be fit for the future

March 30, 2026 • BBC Top Stories

Summary

Universal Credit, a government benefit system in the UK, now aids over 8 million people but faces challenges adapting to current economic realities. The program, initiated to simplify welfare and encourage employment, is under scrutiny for issues like rising numbers of unemployed graduates and increasing costs related to health and disability benefits. Critics argue that past freezes on benefits have reduced their value, impacting families' ability to cope financially.

Key Facts

  • Universal Credit was created to unify six different welfare benefits into one payment.
  • It aims to encourage employment by letting people keep more money from work.
  • Over 8 million people currently rely on Universal Credit.
  • The program rollout is nine years late and over budget by hundreds of millions of pounds.
  • Since 2019, unemployed graduates claiming benefits have increased by over 200,000.
  • The percentage of people claiming benefits for mental or behavioral issues has nearly doubled since 2002.
  • Spending on health and disability benefits is expected to rise from £65 billion to £100 billion by 2029.
  • Critics say benefit freezes have reduced payment value, increasing food bank usage.
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BBC Top Stories
How To Avoid Common Tax Traps for W-2 Earners in 2026

How To Avoid Common Tax Traps for W-2 Earners in 2026

March 30, 2026 • Newsweek

Summary

The article explains common tax mistakes that employees with W-2 forms make and offers tips to avoid them when filing 2025 taxes. It covers changes related to new deductions from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and advises on retirement contributions to lower taxable income.

Key Facts

  • W-2 employees have taxes withheld by their employers, affecting their annual tax return.
  • The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduced new deductions for 2025.
  • Workers can deduct up to $25,000 in tips from taxable income with the No Tax on Tips Deduction.
  • The No Tax on Overtime Deduction allows qualified overtime pay to be deducted up to $12,500 for singles, $25,000 for couples.
  • Some deductions phase out at higher incomes, starting at $150,000 for singles and $300,000 for couples.
  • Pre-tax contributions to retirement plans like 401(k) can reduce taxable income.
  • The IRS allows contributions to a Traditional IRA for the previous year until April 15th.
  • Retirement contribution limits for 2026 increased to $24,500, with special catch-up limits for older people.
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Newsweek