Google Gemini accessed protected systems of 3 real companies during artificial intelligence cybersecurity testGoogle Gemini accessed three real companies' protected systems during a cybersecurity test, including one case where the AI repeatedly guessed passwords.

Google's Gemini artificial intelligence accessed the protected systems of three real companies while undergoing a cybersecurity test, including one instance in which the model repeatedly guessed passwords until it gained access.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the incidents took place in May and mark the first known examples of Google's AI autonomously accessing real companies' systems during this type of evaluation. Google confirmed the incidents to the outlet.

The disclosure comes amid heightened scrutiny surrounding AI as some industry leaders continue to raise concerns about the potential risks posed by increasingly advanced models.

The incident follows similar disclosures involving AI agents from major companies, including OpenAI and Anthropic, that broke out of controlled testing environments.

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The newly identified Gemini incidents took place during a test run by Irregular, a company that was also involved in evaluating AI models connected to similar incidents, the WSJ reported.

The AI had been instructed to attack a fictional company inside a controlled testing environment, but internet access was unintentionally available and the fictional company happened to share its name with a real business, according to Google and Irregular.

In a statement to FOX Business, Google emphasized that the model stopped in all three instances and said changes have since been made to the testing process.

"Safe development of powerful AI models is critical and we invest deeply in this area," Heather Adkins, Google's vice president of security engineering, told FOX Business.

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"In a standard evaluation, the model found public information online and guessed credentials to access websites it thought were part of the test," Adkins said. "In all three of these instances, the model stopped."

In one case, the model "guessed passwords until it gained access to a protected system," according to the report.

In the other two cases, the model found credentials in public online repositories that allowed it to access protected systems. In each case, Gemini ended the intrusion after determining that it had accessed a real company's systems, Google said.

Irregular notified Google about the incidents at the end of July, according to both companies, after the discovery that OpenAI agents had accessed systems belonging to AI software company Hugging Face.

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Google said that in all three cases, Gemini stopped after realizing it had reached an actual company rather than the fictional target.

No harm was caused to the companies, according to Google, which said all three were notified. The company did not identify the businesses involved.

Irregular said the model was not meant to have internet access, but access was unintentionally made available, according to the WSJ.

Google did not disclose which Gemini model was involved.

The report comes after OpenAI released information this week about six instances in which it said its models engaged in misaligned behavior.

OpenAI said it found examples of its AI models creating self-generated instructions, concealing mistakes in task summaries, fabricating information using exposed API keys, uploading files to the internet in order to cite them and engaging in unsanctioned communication and collaboration between agents.

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FOX Business has reached out to Irregular for comment.

FOX Business' Anders Hagstrom contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/google-gemini-accessed-3-companies-systems-during-ai-cybersecurity-test

California entrepreneur warns billionaire wealth tax could trigger 'giant sucking sound' of business exitsEric Schiffer warns California's Proposition 40 wealth tax could trigger a mass exodus of billionaire entrepreneurs, draining jobs and tax revenue.

California entrepreneur Eric Schiffer warned that the state's proposed billionaire wealth tax could drive some of its most successful business leaders out of California, predicting a "giant sucking sound" of entrepreneurs heading for the exits if voters approve the measure.

Schiffer, chairman of family office Patriarch and CEO of Reputation Management Consultants, told FOX Business that he works with several billionaire clients, including some in California, and said many are unhappy about the proposal.

"I think the impact of this passing in California is a giant sucking sound of all of these entrepreneurs being sucked out of California because they're just not going to want to stay," Schiffer said.

"Why would anyone stay if they have spent their life building wealth that they were already taxed on?" he continued.

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"You're going to see some of the most brilliant, most successful men and women that have been the cornerstone of tax revenue and donational revenue and leading companies that are employing fleets of individuals and scores of individuals, they're going to say, 'No mas, I'm out. Goodbye,' because they don't feel respected or appreciated and they feel under attack," Schiffer said.

Proposition 40, which is on the Nov. 3 ballot in California, would impose a one-time tax equal to 5% of net worth on billionaires who were California residents on Jan. 1, 2026.

The tax would be due in 2027, although payments could be spread over five years at an additional cost. Real estate, pensions and retirement accounts generally would be excluded from the tax.

The measure has been endorsed by the California Democratic Party, while some notable leaders, including Gov. Gavin Newsom, have expressed opposition. California Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton has also warned that the billionaire tax would further strain the state's economy.

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Schiffer argued that the tax could also affect Californians without billion-dollar fortunes, saying the consequences could reach their workplaces and economic opportunities.

"I think some of the consequences, if you're a working individual in California, is there's going to be less opportunity," Schiffer said.

He argued that if entrepreneurs relocate, the state could lose businesses, jobs, investment and tax revenue.

"If you think California, when you have all these billionaires bolt, isn't gonna hurt and isn't going to create problems and isn't going to reduce tax revenue and reduce jobs, boy, you're smoking some of the stuff that they're selling in California in some of these stores," he said.

Schiffer also argued that the state could eventually seek to impose similar taxes on people with smaller fortunes.

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"If they're going after billionaires, then the next thing is they're going after you if you're worth hundreds of millions of dollars," he said.

California's nonpartisan Legislative Analyst's Office said "some billionaires" may decide to leave the state in response to the tax, taking with them the income tax revenue they currently generate.

The LAO estimates those and other behavioral responses could reduce state income tax revenue by less than $1 billion per year. At the same time, it estimates the wealth tax would temporarily generate tens of billions of dollars over several years.

FOX Business asked Schiffer directly whether he would leave California if the policy eventually expanded beyond billionaires.

"If it got to the point where they're talking about people that may be worth more than a couple hundred million dollars in that range, California, unfortunately, would be in my rearview mirror," Schiffer said.

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Billionaire Mark Cuban has separately argued that billionaire founders can be "cash poor, stock rich" because much of their net worth can consist of company shares rather than cash available to pay a wealth tax.

Schiffer made a similar point, saying some billionaires hold much of their wealth in stock, including shares of private companies.

Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Calif., one of the proponents of the wealth tax, has previously argued that the levy would help preserve health care for working-class Californians. He also said the "Sacramento establishment" and lobbyists opposing the measure were "blatantly out of touch."

Schiffer argued that the larger question is what the proposal tells people trying to build companies and accumulate wealth in California.

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"You're changing the contract that America has sent to entrepreneurs," he said. "And you're saying, this isn't a good place to do business."

"What we don't want to ever do is to lose the immense power and immense creative engines that the greatest entrepreneurs in the world continue to generate on behalf of the United States of America," Schiffer added.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/california-entrepreneur-warns-billionaire-wealth-tax-could-trigger-giant-sucking-sound-business-exits

Uber ordered to pay $40M after driver leaves intoxicated California woman on freewayAn arbitrator ordered Uber to pay $40 million to the family of Emily Normandin-Parker after a driver kicked her out on a Southern California freeway.

Uber has been ordered to pay $40 million in the 2023 death of a Southern California woman who was struck and killed by a vehicle after her rideshare driver kicked her out on the side of a freeway.

Retired Judge Richard Stone, an arbitrator, rejected Uber's argument that it "merely operates a technology platform" and that it was shielded from "vicarious liability for the negligence of its drivers," according to Panish Shea Ravipudi, the law firm representing the family of 23-year-old Emily Normandin-Parker.

"Emily did everything Uber tells riders to do. She made the responsible choice not to drive, and we trusted Uber to get her home safely. That trust cost our daughter her life," parents Carol Normandin and Ken Parker said. 

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Normandin-Parker, a 2020 UCLA graduate, was out with her friends in Costa Mesa when she called an Uber to take her to her Laguna Beach home with her friend, Luna Moore. They booked a rideshare on the Uber app.

Once in the vehicle, Moore vomited in Vu Tran's car, prompting him to illegally stop at a "gore point," which separated an exit ramp from the freeway, on State Route 73 instead of safely exiting to a safe location, the law firm said.

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Tran ordered both women out of the car and demanded a cleaning fee. Emily, who was intoxicated, was left stranded alongside multiple lanes of freeway traffic, where she was struck and killed.

Instead of calling 911, Tran left and requested that Uber charge Normandin-Parker's account a cleaning fee. Stone found that Tran "needlessly placed" his passengers in danger and showed "far more worry for his new car than he did for his passengers."

"No family should have to suffer the loss of a child, and our thoughts continue to be with the Normandin-Parker family," a company statement said. "We have continued to strengthen our approach to safety over the years, through new technology, policies and safeguards informed by safety experts, including additional guidance to drivers about avoiding drop-offs in unsafe locations. Our work on safety is never finished, and we will continue looking for ways to help make the platform safer."

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Parents can watch their teen’s Uber ride through the driver’s front-facing smartphone camera when live video is enabled. 

Prior to the deadly incident, Tran had completed 6,000 trips with a 4.96 rating, without a single incident involving unsafe drop-offs, freeway stops or rider injury, Uber said.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/uber-ordered-pay-40m-after-driver-leaves-intoxicated-california-woman-freeway

The fast-food chain where managers average more than $200K a yearChief Operating Officer Denny Warnick said the burger chain remains focused on competitive wages, benefits and career development opportunities.

In-N-Out Burger store managers make more than $200,000 annually on average, which the fast-food chain says reflects the company's philosophy of investing in its workforce.

"I can confirm that our In-N-Out Burger store managers earn more than $200,000 a year on average," Chief Operating Officer Denny Warnick said in a statement to FOX Business.

Warnick noted that In-N-Out's founders, Harry and Esther Snyder, believed in "taking really great care of our associates."

"Their philosophy was to treat associates like family and strive to be an outstanding employer, and paying higher-than-normal wages was one important part of that philosophy," he said.

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The burger chain is committed to offering competitive pay, benefits and career development opportunities, according to Warnick.

"Those values remain unchanged today under the leadership of our owner and president, Lynsi Snyder," he said. 

"We’re committed to providing competitive wages, great benefits, a positive and enthusiastic work environment and opportunities for associates to develop and grow."

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Warnick added that many In-N-Out associates have worked for the chain for decades, helping carry on the values established by its founders.

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Earlier this month, the California-based chain, which operates in 10 states, announced two ingredient changes, removing sesame flour from its buns and replacing iodized salt packets with sea salt.

"We remain committed to serving our customers with the freshest, highest-quality food possible. Over the years, we’ve made meaningful changes to our ingredients, and this past year was no exception. We’re pleased to share our latest updates, and we’ll continue building on that commitment for years to come," the company said at the time.

FOX Business' Bonny Chu contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/retail/fast-food-chain-where-managers-average-more-than-200k-year

Nike parts ways with Kylian Mbappé; soccer superstar signs with OnMbappe had been signed with Nike for roughly two decades, and his agreement with On is the first it has made with a soccer player.{}

Mbappe had been signed with Nike for roughly two decades, and his agreement with On is the first it has made with a soccer player.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/18/kylian-mbappe-signs-with-on-after-nike-parts-ways.html

Ticket prices rise for Macklemore solo concert after Ed Sheeran tour removalTicket prices are rising for Macklemore's upcoming solo concert after the rapper was removed from Ed Sheeran's tour for making pro-Palestine comments.{}

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Apple's iPhone 18 goes on sale as customers line up at stores worldwideCrowds flocked to Apple stores worldwide for the iPhone 18 launch after the tech giant rolled out advanced camera upgrades, AI photo detection and its new flagship devices.

Apple fans eager to get their hands on the latest iPhone crowded stores worldwide on Friday.

The 18 Pro and Pro Max lineup, unveiled last week at Apple's annual event alongside its foldable phone Duo, features a reimagined camera with a DSLR-like aperture, improving performance in low-light environments and offering enhanced depth of field.

Apple also announced that the new line of iPhone 18s will be able to detect AI-generated photos by creating an unalterable Reference Image that lives alongside the edited one.

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The iPhone 18 Pro starts at $1,199, and the iPhone 18 Pro Max starts at $1,299 with lease options through Apple Upgrade.

Apple CEO John Ternus, who succeeded Tim Cook earlier this month, visited the company's flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City Friday. He posed for pictures and signed autographs for customers inside and outside the location in Midtown Manhattan.

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The new iPhone marks the launch of the new-and-improved Siri, powered by Apple Intelligence. The new Siri, called Siri AI, was announced in June but was delayed until now to make sure everything was right, according to Apple.

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Siri AI runs on Google Gemini models and is able to perform features such as pulling information from messages, photos, emails and more. Users will also be able to draft messages and emails, edit photos and access past conversations with Siri.

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/apples-iphone-18-goes-sale-customers-line-up-stores-worldwide

Maye Musk reveals the one piece of advice Elon ignored: ‘He doesn’t listen to me’Elon Musk's deep thinking and curiosity were apparent by age three, according to his mother, Maye Musk, who recalls his profound observations as a young child.

Long before Elon Musk was running multiple companies at once, his mother, Maye Musk, had a much simpler recommendation: pick one.

Elon Musk’s mother, Maye Musk, joined FOX Business’ Stuart Varney on "Varney & Co." to discuss her son’s ambitions, his childhood and the advice he ignored before taking on some of his biggest ventures.

Maye recalled a conversation with Elon after PayPal, when he was weighing what to pursue next.

"And that…came later after PayPal, when he said to me, should I do electric cars, or rockets, or solar energy? And I say, you've just worked so hard, just do one. So you see, he doesn't listen to me," Musk said.

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Instead, she said, her son went on to pursue several companies despite widespread doubts about whether they would succeed.

"And then he did six companies, and they were all going to fail. Remember? Everybody's fail, fail, fail and now I'm so proud of him," she said.

Maye said she noticed her son thought differently from an early age, recalling how he would become absorbed in deep thought as a young child before making observations that surprised her.

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"He was different because he would go into deep thoughts," she said, adding that he was making profound observations as young as three years old.

Looking back, Maye said her son's ability to recognize, describe and figure things out was apparent when he was a child.

"He could recognize things, and he can describe it, and I was saying, 'that's three-year-old, you know. He can figure out things,'" she said.

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/maye-musk-reveals-one-piece-advice-elon-ignored-he-doesnt-listen-me

The Connection Between Urbanization and Poverty: How Cities Can Reduce Poverty – Or Deepen It

The Connection Between Urbanization and Poverty: How Cities Can Reduce Poverty – Or Deepen It

UNITED NATIONS, September 18 (IPS) - Urbanization can help concentrate jobs, services, and investments; however, it can also concentrate unaffordable housing, insecure employment, and unequal exposure to contamination and environmental threats. A recent report from the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, argues that the difference is not urbanization itself, but how cities are planned, governed, and financed.

Read the full story, “The Connection Between Urbanization and Poverty: How Cities Can Reduce Poverty – Or Deepen It”, on globalissues.org →

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Auto industry urges Trump to bar Chinese automakers in U.S. ahead of Xi visitLeaders of six major auto trade groups joined to sign a letter to the president.{}

Leaders of six major auto trade groups joined to sign a letter to the president.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/18/xi-visit-automakers-urge-trump-to-bar-chinese-automakers-in-us.html

Outpacing Foreign Aid, Migrant Remittances Are a Lifeline Ensuring Families Are Fed and Healthy, Says IFAD

Outpacing Foreign Aid, Migrant Remittances Are a Lifeline Ensuring Families Are Fed and Healthy, Says IFAD

BULAWAYO, Zimbabwe, September 18 (IPS) - Migrants now send home more money than foreign aid, and this is pulling rural families out of poverty, according to the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).

Read the full story, “Outpacing Foreign Aid, Migrant Remittances Are a Lifeline Ensuring Families Are Fed and Healthy, Says IFAD”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/09/18/44081 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/09/jeong-yunji-XYDd48THgOU-unsplash-100x100.jpg"}

Disney names CTO for the first time as media giant expands tech pushDisney has hired a chief technology officer, a newly minted role for the company, as it looks to further its embrace of tech under CEO Josh D'Amaro.{}

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America's best and worst cities for housing affordability rankedA new report graded the nation's 100 largest metro areas on housing affordability and homebuilding, with Des Moines earning the top spot and Los Angeles finishing last.

Housing affordability varies dramatically depending on where you live.

A new Realtor.com report released this week graded the nation's 100 largest metro areas based on housing affordability and the pace of new home construction.

Joel Berner, senior economist at Realtor.com, told FOX Business that the rankings were designed to capture the current state of each housing market, as well as its long-term trajectory.

"It's really a balanced look at the present and the future for how things are affordable now and how they might be affordable in years to come," Berner said.

THE US CITIES WHERE HOME PRICES ARE FALLING THE FASTEST

Many metros across the Midwest and Sun Belt regions ranked high on the list, while several higher-cost coastal cities ranked near the bottom.

Des Moines, Iowa, topped the rankings with an A+ grade, followed by Raleigh, North Carolina; Columbia, South Carolina; Houston, Texas; and Indianapolis, Indiana.

Los Angeles ranked last with an F, followed by Providence, Rhode Island; New York City; Honolulu; and Boston.

The report comes as the U.S. continues to grapple with a housing shortage of more than 4 million homes after years of underbuilding, according to Realtor.com.

"Builders are getting squeezed on both sides," Berner said. "Their costs are going up, whether it's materials, labor or the cost of regulation. … And on the demand side, they're seeing depressed buyer activity because of high mortgage rates and low buyer affordability."

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According to Berner, the highest-ranked metros generally have local governments that make it easier and faster to build new housing.

"They have local government facilitating new projects, not getting in the way, not having really restrictive zoning laws, having quick permitting processes," he said.

"And these are places with strong job markets that are growing really fast, and the cities are allowing builders to absorb that increasing demand for homes in these growing cities by building a lot of them."

Many of those markets also have abundant land, Berner added.

"Those places really have some advantages that the coastal cities don't," Berner said. "Land is much more available. … They're also incentivizing these builders to produce dense urban housing as well as the kind of suburban developments that the developers have been working on for a number of years."

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Berner said that local officials hoping to improve affordability should start by revisiting zoning rules.

"I think the first thing they should do is look at their local zoning ordinances," Berner said.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/real-estate/americas-best-worst-cities-housing-affordability-ranked

Newsom advances AI 'kill switch' mandate under new California executive orderCalifornia Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order accelerating the state's AI oversight efforts, while also calling on the federal government to begin regulating the emerging tech more stringently.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a likely 2028 presidential contender, signed an executive order Friday calling on the federal government to take a more active role in regulating artificial intelligence.

He said in a statement that the Trump administration has abdicated "its responsibility to protect Americans," as AI becomes more advanced and capable by the month.

Newsom's order recommends more stringent oversight on companies developing AI, while requiring those same firms to develop a "kill switch" for their frontier models in the event they go rogue.

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"We're not waiting to act – we’re going to speed up our work on substantial and responsible AI oversight before it's too late. We’re going to do this thoughtfully but with urgent velocity; the stakes are too high to wait or delay action," Newsom said.

In a video on his personal YouTube channel, Newsom delivered a sharp critique of President Donald Trump, who recently said that the risks surrounding AI amount to a "hoax."

"There's still no comprehensive federal law, none, requiring AI companies to report dangerous incidents when they happen, and President Trump has rejected calls for new regulation. No new regulation. Let it rip. He's dead wrong," Newsom said.

The order, Newsom said, will speed up implementation of recently enacted California laws that establish a framework for independent organizations to assess AI systems for safety and potential risk.

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The order also moves up implementation of California's AI auditor registry and oversight program from January 2029 to December 2027.

Newsom acknowledged in hs video message that the idea of creating a so-called "kill switch" for out-of-control AI systems is still largely in its infancy. To explore the concept further, he said he'd be convening a panel of experts.

A kill switch "means a lot of things depending on who you talk to," Newsom said, adding, "So we want to flesh out exactly what that means and how to come up with a framework that works."

Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., attempted to introduce a federal AI kill switch bill this week, but his effort was blocked by Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky.

"I think it would be crazy to get on the floor one day and regulate an entire industry," Paul told reporters. He argued that passing such a piece of legislation would require input from industry leaders.

Trump has generally opposed new AI regulations, arguing that excessive rules could hamper innovation. He has repeatedly defended data centers, saying they are good for the communities that host them. 

He has also said that any slowdown in domestic AI development will lead to China outpacing the U.S. over time.

On Monday, Trump explicitly rejected calls from AI executives for the federal government to impose new limits on the technology. Among those calling for restraining AI were Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and xAI CEO Elon Musk.

"The only control or ‘guardrails’ that AI needs is a STRONG AND SMART (High IQ!) PRESIDENT, and the U.S.A. has that, in spades!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/newsom-advances-ai-kill-switch-mandate-under-new-california-executive-order

Wendy's franchisee files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as burger chain strugglesOne of Wendy's biggest U.S. franchisees, Meritage Hospitality Group, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.{}

One of Wendy's biggest U.S. franchisees, Meritage Hospitality Group, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/18/wendys-franchisee-files-for-chapter-11-bankruptcy-protection.html

Why more companies are fighting over consumers' beauty, health and wellness spendingAs consumers prioritize holistic retail purchases, beauty, health and wellness are increasingly converging into one category and one consumer budget.{}

As consumers prioritize holistic retail purchases, beauty, health and wellness are increasingly converging into one category and one consumer budget.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/18/beauty-health-wellness-consumer-spending.html

Beauty, health and wellness are converging into one retail categoryAs consumers prioritize holistic retail purchases, beauty, health and wellness are increasingly converging into one category and one consumer budget.{}

As consumers prioritize holistic retail purchases, beauty, health and wellness are increasingly converging into one category and one consumer budget.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/18/beauty-health-wellness-consumer-spending.html

Stephen Curry says his Li-Ning signature shoe will debut early next yearGolden State Warrior superstar Stephen Curry announced in June he was signing a long-term partnership with Chinese brand Li-Ning.{}

Golden State Warrior superstar Stephen Curry announced in June he was signing a long-term partnership with Chinese brand Li-Ning.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/17/stephen-curry-li-ning-signature-shoe.html

Netflix content chief Bela Bajaria defines event strategy as streamer eyes more live sportsBajaria said Netflix would be open to a package of international NFL games if one becomes available when the league renegotiates its media rights agreements.{}

Bajaria said Netflix would be open to a package of international NFL games if one becomes available when the league renegotiates its media rights agreements.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/17/netflix-bela-bajaria-live-sports-event-strategy.html

GM touts new V-8 engines in revived ‘truck wars’ with Ford, Ram amid lackluster EV salesThe large, gas-guzzling models continue to sell well in pickup trucks thanks to their ability to tow and haul heavy things.{}

The large, gas-guzzling models continue to sell well in pickup trucks thanks to their ability to tow and haul heavy things.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/17/chevy-silverado-gmc-sierra-v-8-engines.html

Charities say gifts by deceased donors are getting held up at financial firmsNonprofits are pushing back against policies by financial institutions to collect personal information of charity employees before releasing a gift.{}

Nonprofits are pushing back against policies by financial institutions to collect personal information of charity employees before releasing a gift.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/17/charities-ira-gifts-hurdles.html

NASCAR CEO Steve O’Donnell talks growth opportunities, possible international expansionCEO Steve O’Donnell said NASCAR's media strategy and the upcoming film "Days of Thunder 2" will help raise brand awareness and broaden its fan base.{}

CEO Steve O’Donnell said NASCAR's media strategy and the upcoming film "Days of Thunder 2" will help raise brand awareness and broaden its fan base.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/17/nascar-steve-odonnell-media-international-expansion.html

J.B. Hunt stock plunges 13% after company warns third-quarter earnings will fallShares of J.B. Hunt plunged 13% Wednesday after the company warned of an earnings drop between 5% and 10%.{}

Shares of J.B. Hunt plunged 13% Wednesday after the company warned of an earnings drop between 5% and 10%.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/16/jb-hunt-stock-jbht-earnings.html

Boeing CEO: 737 Max production taking 'a little bit longer' to stabilize than expectedBoeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said wing production at its Renton, Washington, factory is a hold up, adding the company has plans to address it.{}

Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg said wing production at its Renton, Washington, factory is a hold up, adding the company has plans to address it.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/16/boeing-ceo-737-max-production.html

American Airlines says 30% of seats drive half of revenue as premium cabin rush heats upAmerican says a minority of its seats now accounts for half of its revenue.{}

American says a minority of its seats now accounts for half of its revenue.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/16/american-airlines-ceo-first-class-seats.html

Tropical Smoothie Cafe is getting a makeover as it prepares for its 'next 3,000' locationsTropical Smoothie Cafe unveiled new branding as it grows rapidly under the ownership of private equity firm Blackstone.{}

Tropical Smoothie Cafe unveiled new branding as it grows rapidly under the ownership of private equity firm Blackstone.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/16/tropical-smoothie-cafe-announces-new-branding-plans-for-new-locations.html

Flyers are happier with U.S. airports, despite near record travel levels, J.D. Power report showsTravelers gave higher ratings in part because of the newer gates and terminals many airports have opened in recent years, according to the study.{}

Travelers gave higher ratings in part because of the newer gates and terminals many airports have opened in recent years, according to the study.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/16/airport-satisfaction.html

Ford increases V-8 engine availability, lowers performance prices for 2027 F-150 trucksFord said the changes are meant to provide customers with more choice and help expand sales of key models, a strategy CEO Jim Farley has touted.{}

Ford said the changes are meant to provide customers with more choice and help expand sales of key models, a strategy CEO Jim Farley has touted.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/2027-ford-f-150-trucks.html

Nike co-founder Phil Knight to donate $1.1 billion to Oregon medical centerThe gift to Providence St. Vincent Medical Center will support the creation of an all-women’s hospital as well as advance cardiovascular care across Oregon.{}

The gift to Providence St. Vincent Medical Center will support the creation of an all-women’s hospital as well as advance cardiovascular care across Oregon.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/nike-phil-knight-donation-oregon-medical-center.html

Children's clothing retailer Carter's is rebranding to appeal to a new generation of parentsChildren's clothing brand Carter's is announcing a rebrand as it tries to keep up with the modern parent and its core customer base.{}

Children's clothing brand Carter's is announcing a rebrand as it tries to keep up with the modern parent and its core customer base.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/carters-kids-clothing-retailer-rebrands.html

Potential AI slowdown is not ‘end of the world’ for data center real estate, says Digital Realty CEODigital Realty and Equinix, two of the largest data center REITs, saw their stocks slump after warnings over AI advancements.{}

Digital Realty and Equinix, two of the largest data center REITs, saw their stocks slump after warnings over AI advancements.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/data-center-reit-ceo-ai-slowdown.html

Warren Buffett steps down as chairman of Berkshire Hathaway

Legendary investor Warren Buffett is stepping down as chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, the company said on Friday.

"Serving as your Chairman has been the privilege of a lifetime, and I have never taken your trust for granted," Buffett said in a letter to shareholders. "Father Time always wins. He has, however, been generous with me. He has given me the opportunity to see Berkshire reach a point where I am more confident than ever about what lies ahead."

Buffett's son, Howard Buffett, will take over, effective immediately.

This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/business-leaders/warren-buffett-steps-down-chairman-berkshire-hathaway

GM launching new customer software experience with redesigned Chevy, GMC pickupsThe new system comes as vehicles are becoming more digital, leading GM to also redesign its organizational processes.{}

The new system comes as vehicles are becoming more digital, leading GM to also redesign its organizational processes.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/2027-chevy-silverado-gmc-sierra-to-debut-gms-new-software-experience.html

U.S. auto market predictions for 2030: More hybrids, no Chinese entrantsDespite growing speculation that it won't be long until Chinese autos are sold in the U.S., John Murphy doesn't expect that to happen by 2030.{}

Despite growing speculation that it won't be long until Chinese autos are sold in the U.S., John Murphy doesn't expect that to happen by 2030.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/us-auto-market-predictions-2030-john-murphy.html

Kraft Heinz bets on more flavors for Philadelphia cream cheese as it looks to revive brandsPhiladelphia will release more cream cheese flavors as part of Kraft Heinz's turnaround.{}

Philadelphia will release more cream cheese flavors as part of Kraft Heinz's turnaround.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/15/kraft-heinz-new-philadelphia-cream-cheese-flavors.html

Bank of America expects third-quarter investment banking fees to fall more than 10%; shares slideThe muted outlook from the country's second-largest bank by assets could be an early signal that Wall Street's AI boom might have hit turbulence.{}

The muted outlook from the country's second-largest bank by assets could be an early signal that Wall Street's AI boom might have hit turbulence.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/14/bank-of-america-bac-q3-investment-banking-fees.html

Toys R Us makes major comeback with 120 new stores opening across US this holiday seasonYears after its 2017 bankruptcy and store closures, Toys R Us is making its biggest U.S. comeback yet with 160 standalone stores this holiday season.

Toys R Us is launching its biggest U.S. expansion in years, with 120 new standalone stores set to open in time for the holiday shopping season.

The retailer announced Thursday that it will open the new standalone stores across the U.S. this holiday season through a partnership with Go! Retail Group, bringing its total number of standalone U.S. stores to 160.

The rollout marks a major step in the brand’s yearslong effort to rebuild its brick-and-mortar presence since its 2017 bankruptcy and the closure of its U.S. stores the following year.

The company did not provide a full list of the new locations, their opening dates or store sizes in its announcement. It also did not specify whether all 120 stores will remain open after the holiday season.

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The new stores will stock toys, collectibles and gifts tied to major brands and entertainment properties, including LEGO, Barbie, Hot Wheels, Pokémon and "KPop Demon Hunters," the company said. Select locations will also feature candy shops, cafés and Creator Studios, where influencers and toy companies can create content and host product launches.

"This is a major moment for Toys ‘R’ Us as we significantly expand our presence across the United States," Jamie Uitdenhowen, executive vice president of Toys R Us at parent company WHP Global, said in a statement.

Uitdenhowen said the company is attempting to reach shoppers through several formats, including standalone stores, Toys R Us shops inside Macy’s, airport locations and Navy Exchanges.

Go! Retail Group CEO Gideon Schlessinger said the companies expect the 160 standalone stores to bring the Toys R Us shopping experience to millions of customers during the holidays.

The announcement accelerates a yearslong effort to revive a retailer that was once a fixture of American childhood.

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Toys R Us filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2017 after years of declining sales and under the weight of $5 billion in debt. The company shuttered its remaining U.S. stores in 2018 before reemerging under new parent company Tru Kids Brands the following year.

The retailer attempted an initial brick-and-mortar return in late 2019 with smaller-format stores in Paramus, New Jersey, and Houston, Texas. Both locations closed in January 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

WHP Global acquired a controlling stake in Toys R Us in March 2021 and opened a 20,000-square-foot flagship at the American Dream complex in New Jersey later that year.

The comeback gained more ground in 2022 when hundreds of Toys R Us shops opened inside Macy’s stores nationwide. Macy’s said at the time that its first-quarter toy sales were 15 times higher than during the comparable period before the partnership.

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WHP Global then partnered with Go! Retail Group in 2023 to roll out more U.S. flagship stores under an expansion strategy dubbed "air, land and sea." The effort pushed the brand beyond traditional malls and included its first airport store at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport.

Toys R Us is now expanding that travel footprint in Florida. One shop-in-shop opened at Orlando International Airport in August through a partnership with WHSmith North America, and another is scheduled to open in summer 2027.

The company also operates locations through the Navy Exchange Service Command, which serves members of the military and their families.

Toys R Us said its global business generates more than $2 billion in annual retail sales through more than 1,680 stores and e-commerce operations in 37 countries.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/retail/toys-r-us-makes-major-comeback-120-new-stores-opening-across-us-holiday-season

Novo CEO tells CNBC why drugmaker is rebranding, needs to 'rethink' obesity strategyThe Danish drugmaker called the changes the beginning of a new chapter for the company, which faces stiff competition from Eli Lilly.{}

The Danish drugmaker called the changes the beginning of a new chapter for the company, which faces stiff competition from Eli Lilly.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/14/novo-nordisk-rebrands-to-novo-ceo-mike-doustdar.html

GM plans U.S. battery development as Trump's DOT attacks Ford for China tiesMost battery cells currently rely on raw materials from China. GM is seeking to establish domestic supply chains both for EVs and energy storage.{}

Most battery cells currently rely on raw materials from China. GM is seeking to establish domestic supply chains both for EVs and energy storage.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/12/gm-us-battery-development-ford-china-ties.html

National Cheeseburger Day 2026: Burger deals at McDonald's, Wendy's and othersBurger lovers can score free and discounted cheeseburgers at major chains, including McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Five Guys, Carl's Jr. and Shake Shack.

Americans celebrating National Cheeseburger Day Friday can score free and discounted burgers at major restaurant chains, including McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Five Guys and others.

Most of the deals are available through restaurant loyalty programs or mobile apps, and several require a minimum purchase.

Members of the MyMcDonald's Rewards program can get a free Double Cheeseburger on Friday with a minimum $1 purchase through the McDonald's app.

55-YEAR-OLD RESTAURANT CHAIN ABRUPTLY SHUTTERS LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE

"Since burgers are kind of our thing, we’d love for fans to come in and grab their favorite McDonald’s drink, snack or meal and add a Double Cheeseburger to celebrate the holiday with us," a spokesperson for McDonald's told FOX Business. 

"And for fans who are looking for burger deals outside of the holiday, they can check out the McDonald’s App for deals every week."

Burger King is celebrating the holiday with a week of Royal Perks offers. On National Cheeseburger Day, loyalty members can receive a free Bacon Cheeseburger with a $3 minimum purchase through the Burger King app, according to USA Today.

The promotion is part of a weeklong lineup that also includes a free four-piece Chicken Nuggets with a $3 purchase on Sept. 19 and a free Original Chicken Sandwich with a $3 purchase on Sept. 20.

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At participating locations, Buffalo Wild Wings customers can get a free cheeseburger with the purchase of another regularly priced cheeseburger, "Today" reported.

The one-time offer can't be combined with other discounts and excludes lunch combos and kids' menu burgers, according to the chain.

Wendy's Rewards members can add a Dave's Single Cheeseburger for $1.99 with any purchase through the chain's app or website at participating U.S. locations, USA Today reported.

Red Robin is giving away 400 digital gift cards to celebrate the holiday. Customers can enter by commenting on the restaurant's Sept. 18 post on Instagram or Facebook, as noted on its website.

Five Guys is offering a buy one, get one free burger of equal or lesser value through Friday, according to USA Today.

Customers must order online or through the Five Guys app and use the promo code "BOGOBURGER" at checkout. The offer is not valid for in-store purchases.

PANDA EXPRESS GUEST STUNNED AS EMPLOYEE STANDS ON FRYER WHILE CLEANING

Carl's Jr. Rewards members can get any burger for half price with the purchase of any Hand-Scooped Ice-Cream Shake on Friday through the chain's app, according to USA Today.

"It’s national cheeseburger day and I love cheeseburgers and shakes," the chain said in an Instagram post. "Go take advantage of my generosity."

Shake Shack customers can get a $5 single ShackBurger or single Cheeseburger with any purchase by using the code "BURGERDAY" in the Shake Shack app on the company's website or at in-store kiosks, according to USA Today.

For National Cheeseburger Day, 7-Eleven is offering a $6 meal deal that includes a 20-ounce Coke or Pepsi and a choice of an Angus Double Cheeseburger, Chicken Sandwich or Philly Cheesesteak, according to USA Today.

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Buffalo Wild Wings, Wendy's, Burger King, Five Guys, Carl's Jr., 7-Eleven and Shake Shack could not immediately be reached by FOX Business for comment.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/national-cheeseburger-day-2026-burger-deals-mcdonalds-wendys-more

Major airlines cut flights as higher jet fuel prices hit carriersExecutives at American, United and Southwest said higher fuel costs are squeezing airlines, though resilient travel demand has helped offset some of the pressure.

Executives from American Airlines, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines said Wednesday that higher jet fuel prices are prompting carriers to adjust capacity and closely monitor flight schedules.

The global average jet fuel price rose 6.1% week over week to $181.46 per barrel last week, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA).

Speaking at Morgan Stanley's 14th Annual Laguna Conference, American Airlines Chief Financial Officer Devon May said fourth-quarter jet fuel prices are running about $1 per gallon above what the airline projected in July, adding roughly $1 billion to its fuel bill.

"Overall for the third quarter, we feel great," May said. "What's happened in the last four weeks, though is fuel's run up probably $1 a gallon or something like that for the fourth quarter alone."

AVELO CEO WARNS AIRFARES MAY RISE AS FUEL PRICES HIT 'UNCOMFORTABLY HIGH' LEVELS

May said American will continue adjusting capacity later in the fourth quarter in response to higher fuel costs.

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said the airline still expects third-quarter revenue to rise 16% to 19% from a year earlier, citing strength across domestic and international markets as well as both premium and economy cabins, according to Reuters.

"When you take into account fuel right now, yes, we've absolutely done a great job of recapturing a tremendous amount of that expense," Isom said.

United Airlines Chief Financial Officer Michael Leskinen said some flights planned for December will no longer operate because of higher fuel prices.

"As you look into the fourth quarter, there'll be some flights in December that we won't fly that we thought we were going to fly," he said at the Morgan Stanley conference. "If fuel remains high, we'll make some adjustments into the first quarter and beyond into 2027."

AIRLINE PASSENGERS ROCKED BY TURBULENCE DURING DESCENT: 'WE STARTED TO PLUMMET'

Leskinen also described United's fourth-quarter bookings as "tremendously strong," saying premium travel, corporate demand and economy bookings have all remained resilient.

"Bookings have continued as we expected, so that piece of the equation is resilient — very little evidence of demand destruction," Leskinen said.

At the conference, Southwest Airlines Chief Financial Officer Tom Doxey said the carrier has already pared back about half of the modest year-over-year capacity growth it had planned at the start of 2026. 

"If fuel is higher for longer," Doxey said, trimming capacity would be the "natural response."

However, a spokesperson for the airline told FOX Business the schedule adjustments made so far have been minimal and that Doxey was making an "illustrative point" about trimming capacity and was "not alluding to an action we've taken."

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Doxey added that stronger-than-expected fall bookings have helped offset higher fuel costs, allowing Southwest to maintain its third-quarter earnings guidance, according to Reuters.

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Spokespersons for American Airlines and United Airlines told FOX Business the carriers had nothing further to add.

Reuters contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/major-airlines-cut-flights-higher-jet-fuel-prices-hit-carriers

OpenAI targets work of Wall Street junior bankers with new ChatGPT for Financial ServicesOpenAI launched ChatGPT for Financial Services, targeting the labor-intensive research, modeling and pitchbook tasks traditionally handled by junior bankers.{}

OpenAI launched ChatGPT for Financial Services, targeting the labor-intensive research, modeling and pitchbook tasks traditionally handled by junior bankers.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/10/openai-chatgpt-for-financial-services-targets-work-of-junior-bankers.html

Wealthy investors are pouring billions into this new tax strategy despite risksTotal assets invested in so-called tax-aware long-short strategies — or TALS — have surged to more than $170 billion, according to Tax Alpha Insider.{}

Total assets invested in so-called tax-aware long-short strategies — or TALS — have surged to more than $170 billion, according to Tax Alpha Insider.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/11/wealthy-investors-tax-aware-long-short-strategies.html

Tech power players land seat at table for high-stakes dinner with Trump, XiSam Altman, Jensen Huang and Tim Cook are expected at Donald Trump's state dinner for Xi Jinping amid fierce U.S.-China competition over AI and chips.

President Donald Trump is planning to hold a state dinner next week to mark a visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping, and several tech industry leaders are expected to attend.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Apple Executive Chairman Tim Cook are both reportedly planning to attend the state dinner.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is also expected to attend the event, a person familiar with the matter told FOX Business.

The tech leaders' anticipated attendance at the Trump-Xi state dinner comes at a time of geopolitical tensions, including over the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and access to both models and the chips that power them.

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The U.S. and China are locked in a competition in which the two world powers are racing to develop more capable AI tools, which have been a source of tension between the countries.

China's access to specialized chips that power advanced AI models has been restricted through the U.S. government's use of export controls on advanced semiconductors, like those made by Nvidia.

Huang has been critical of those restrictions and said in May that China has "all the chips they need" despite the U.S. restrictions.

BESSENT SAYS US NEEDS MORE OPEN-SOURCE AI MODELS TO COMPETE WITH CHINA

American companies like OpenAI and Anthropic have relied on using frontier models, which are proprietary and not available for use without purchasing a license, to gain their edge in the AI race. Chinese tech companies have used distillation as a means of using open-weight models to keep up with U.S. firms' frontier models.

Altman and other tech leaders have recently been discussing steps to rein in AI development to ensure the safety and alignment of those models amid concerns about their potential impact on humanity.

"It is the responsibility of the AI companies ourselves to develop the technology safely and to properly test it," Huang told reporters. "If it's not ready, just hold it back. You should go as fast as you can, but no faster than that."

State dinners are among the highest diplomatic honors a U.S. president can bestow on a foreign leader.

NVIDIA CEO JENSEN HUANG WARNS CHINA HAS 'ALL THE CHIPS THEY NEED' DESPITE US BANS

Next week's state dinner comes after Xi hosted a state dinner for Trump when he visited China in May. That event was also attended by Elon Musk, Huang and Cook – who was still CEO at the time and has recently transitioned into an executive chairman role at Apple.

The Trump-Xi state dinner will be the second hosted by Trump during his second term, as the first was held during a visit by Britain's King Charles and Queen Camilla.

During his first term, he hosted state dinners for French President Emmanuel Macron in 2018 and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison in 2019.

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Reuters contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/tech-power-players-land-seat-table-high-stakes-dinner-trump-xi

DSA platform could cost up to $212T over a decade, analysis findsThe Democratic Socialists of America platform could cost up to $212 trillion over a decade, a Cato Institute analysis of DSA policies estimates.

The policy agenda of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) would cost between $71 trillion and $212 trillion in fresh spending over a decade, according to a new analysis.

The progressive wing of the Democratic Party has had electoral success recently, with some candidates backed by the DSA advancing in primaries in the wake of Zohran Mamdani's election as mayor of New York City.

Angie Nixon, a DSA member in Florida, won the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate. Progressives who have touted similar policies as those in the DSA platform have also found recent success in Democratic primaries for U.S. Senate races, with Abdul El-Sayed winning in Michigan and Peggy Flanagan prevailing in Minnesota.

Adam Michel, the director of tax policy studies at the Cato Institute, wrote in the New York Post that the "DSA promises a world of plenty, paid for by somebody else. Simple math says otherwise."

THE HISTORY OF SOCIALISM IN THE US – AND WHY THE AMERICAN DREAM PREVAILS

Michel analyzed the DSA platform and found that while the platform is "thin on details," he was able to estimate the spending policies would total between $71 trillion and $212 trillion in new spending over the next decade.

He noted that, at the high end of that estimate, the total government spending would reach as high as 92% of U.S. economic output.

"The socialists claim their plan will do away with rent. They'll make healthcare free and forgive student loans. Their system will provide utilities, college and food at no cost to the consumer," Michel wrote.

"However, making something free at the point of use simply shifts the cost somewhere else, in this case, to taxpayers."

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Michel said universal healthcare could cost $40 trillion to $70 trillion over the course of a decade as reforms modeled off a Medicare-for-all-like healthcare system would see the government take on costs like paying for doctors and nurses as well as operating medical facilities.

Another plank in the DSA platform, a federal jobs guarantee, would cost up to $60 trillion to cover the wages of millions of American workers over a decade, according to Michel, who added that the elimination of rent or mortgages as part of a housing guarantee would cost trillions.

"Washington is currently projected to collect about $70 trillion in federal taxes over the next 10 years. To cover the costs of all those additional services, the DSA agenda requires roughly doubling federal revenue at the low end and quadrupling it at the high end," Michel wrote.

The DSA platform calls for enacting "aggressive wealth taxes on the richest individuals and corporations to spend on public goods and infrastructure."

He said that while advocates of those spending plans claim that they will be able to use higher taxes on wealthy Americans and corporations to pay for them, they would likely come up short.

TRUMP ACCOUNTS CAN BE 'ANTIDOTE' TO SOCIALISM BY TEACHING YOUNG AMERICANS ABOUT CAPITALISM: TREASURY OFFICIAL

The 400 wealthiest billionaires in America were worth an estimated $6.6 trillion last year, according to a Forbes analysis, which Michel noted would be insufficient to cover the DSA agenda.

"Imagine Washington could confiscate every dollar of that — liquidate their businesses, sell their homes, strip off their jewelry. All that covers less than one year of the low-end cost of the DSA's platform – or not quite four months of it at the high end," he wrote.

Taxing every dollar of corporate profits at 100% would fund between half and one-fifth of the DSA agenda, according to Michel, while hiking income taxes on high-income earners would cover less than 1% of those spending plans.

"Add it all together — confiscate the wealth of the richest Americans, seize every dollar of corporate profit and maximize top income-tax rates — and the DSA is still between $29 trillion and $169 trillion short of covering the cost of its promises," Michel wrote.

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He added that only "one tax base is large enough to fill a gap tens of trillions of dollars wide: the middle class," noting that the European middle class has a significantly higher tax burden than its American counterpart to finance those countries' social welfare programs.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/dsa-platform-could-cost-up-212t-over-decade-analysis-finds

Record U.S. cyclosporiasis outbreak is over, CDC saysThe largest outbreak, linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, sickened more than 12,000 people.{}

The largest outbreak, linked to shredded iceberg lettuce from Taylor Farms, sickened more than 12,000 people.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/11/cdc-record-cyclosporiasis-outbreak-over.html

25 years after 9/11, the U.S. starts rolling back travel restrictions, from liquids to gate accessYears after 9/11, the U.S. government is walking back some security screenings as threats and technology evolve.{}

Years after 9/11, the U.S. government is walking back some security screenings as threats and technology evolve.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/11/9/11-anniversary-air-travel.html

Paramount mum, but LA officials on notice as rumors of move from California to Nashville swirlLA Mayor Karen Bass and Attorney General Rob Bonta were reportedly told Paramount's Hollywood exit announcement was imminent as Nashville scouting ramps up.

While Paramount has yet to announce its official departure from Hollywood, Los Angeles officials are on high alert after Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and Attorney General Rob Bonta were told an exit announcement was imminent.

While TMZ reported that the statement was expected Tuesday, no announcement has been made. Meanwhile, Paramount Skydance officials have been spotted in Nashville scouting commercial properties as the studio considers moving some of its operations there, according to insiders with knowledge of the search in a new report.

The studio has already looked at more than 400,000 square feet of potential space in Music City, according to a report by Politico. Other possible relocation options on the table include Texas and Georgia.

Paramount declined to comment on the reports of a possible move when contacted by Fox News Digital.

PARAMOUNT'S CALIFORNIA FUTURE IN DOUBT AMID ESCALATING LEGAL FIGHT

"We cannot comment on a company's plans," Bonta's office told Fox News Digital. "It's no secret that Paramount has been making this threat despite its alleged commitment to California and Hollywood. What Paramount decides to do is Paramount's choice alone. We'll continue to apply the law without fear or favor and continue to be open to coming to the table for good faith discussions."

Bonta told MS NOW Thursday that LA officials are still willing to come to the table and negotiate.

"We’ve heard this threat before, and it’s inconsistent with other things that they have said," he said. "If they decide to leave, that’s their independent choice. I’m not asking for it. I don’t want it, obviously, and that responsibility will lay at their feet."

CNN STAFFERS SEE PARAMOUNT MERGER AS 'INEVITABLE' DESPITE LEGAL BATTLE DELAYING ELLISON TAKEOVER

Bonta was also asked about the possible move Thursday at The Atlantic Festival in New York.

"We will do our job," he said. "We have a job to enforce the law without fear and without favor, and, at the same time, we are always open to come to the table if it is in good faith and it is sincere. And we will always explore an opportunity to get the results that we want with our evaluation of the case at the table."

CNN STAFFERS BRACE FOR PARAMOUNT CEO'S POTENTIAL PLAN TO LAUNCH EDITORIAL BOARD TO OVERSEE NETWORK

In July, Bonta, and 11 other state attorneys general, filed an antitrust lawsuit against Paramount in an attempt to block the proposed Warner Bros. Discovery acquisition. They claimed the merger would eliminate competition in film distribution and basic cable while negatively affecting industry workers and consumers.

For his part, Paramount CEO David Ellison then threatened to move the iconic studio out of the Golden State if Bonta did not back off and a settlement was not reached by Oct. 1.

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Now, it appears increasingly unlikely that a deal can be reached.

Fox News Digital's Brian Flood and Joseph Wulfsohn contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/paramount-mum-la-officials-notice-rumors-move-from-california-nashville-swirl

California high-speed rail consultants billed taxpayers for a private plane, tiki bars and cigar loungesA new California inspector general report reveals high-speed rail consultants billed taxpayers for luxury trips, nightclub visits and private aircraft travel.

California High-Speed Rail Authority officials rubber-stamped hundreds of thousands of dollars in travel charges incurred by outside consultants, according to a new report from the state's inspector general.

The lavish spending revelations come as the $126 billion project has become a national symbol of government waste. Sixteen years after voters approved the initiative, not a single mile of track has carried a commercial passenger, and a recent assessment warned the project's funds could dry up entirely by the end of 2027.

The audit, released Tuesday by the California Office of the Inspector General (OIG), revealed that taxpayers footed the bill for private aircraft travel, tiki bar visits, cigar lounges, luxury rideshares and international trips over a two-year period.

"In total, the Authority paid more than $2 million in travel-related costs for consultants at the four consulting firms in fiscal years 2024-25 and 2025-26," the OIG said.

The investigation reviewed travel reimbursements billed by four outside consulting firms over the two-year period. It found that roughly 60%, or $680,500, of the payments it reviewed had not received advanced authorization. Additionally, $543,400 in travel expense payments were found to be "not allowable." In some instances, agency staff didn't even know the trips had taken place until the invoices arrived, frequently approving them with vague justifications like a "typical M-F week."

The audit uncovered a lack of oversight, noting the agency's behavior is "inconsistent with the Authority’s role as the steward of public resources."

TRUMP CALLS CANADA'S POTENTIAL EU ASSOCIATE MEMBERSHIP ‘LAUGHABLE,’ WARNS EUROPE OF ‘VERY HEAVY TARIFFS’

Instead of standard business travel, the audit flagged an array of unauthorized luxury expenditures billed to "questionable locations" without prior approval. Financial consulting giant KPMG LLP was specifically identified by the OIG as the firm that billed the authority for rides to a nightclub, a tiki bar and a Washington, D.C., cigar lounge. Taxpayers were also on the hook for an outing to an escape room, a trip to a Denver sushi restaurant and a 25-mile "Uber Comfort" ride to a steakhouse in Folsom, California.

KPMG declined to comment.

The audit of the reimbursements extended to daily routines and premium transit. The agency repeatedly reimbursed ride-hailing trips to Planet Fitness gyms in and around Sacramento, continuing the practice even after a supervisor explicitly put in writing that the state does not cover rideshares to gyms.

One consultant billed taxpayers $40 for a luxury "Uber Black" ride to travel less than a single mile in downtown Sacramento.

When it came to air travel, one consultant bypassed commercial airlines entirely, flying a private aircraft from Washington, D.C., to California. The consultant self-calculated that a "premium" commercial rate would have cost $4,182 each way, and the agency paid it without question.

The billing didn't stop there. One legal consultant billed $40,800 in travel reimbursements, plus $86,500 just for "travel time," making 30 trips between Denver and Sacramento in a single year. Furthermore, the agency paid out $118,000 in international travel expenses, despite the consultants' contracts explicitly barring international trips.

A spokesperson for the California High-Speed Rail Authority said the agency "takes these findings seriously" and has pledged to work collaboratively with the inspector general’s office to rectify the oversight failures.

FOX Business reached out to Nossaman LLP, the AECOM-Fluor Joint Venture and the SYSTRA/TYPSA Joint Venture for comment.

California voters first approved the bullet train initiative in 2008. They were promised a $33 billion state-of-the-art railway that would whisk passengers between Los Angeles and San Francisco by 2020. Following a reassessment this year, the total estimated cost of the project has ballooned to at least $126 billion — nearly quadruple the original price tag. The estimated completion date has also been pushed back decades, with optimistic projections now targeting 2039.

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"More than $600,000 in consultant travel expenses were flagged as questionable, while California families are struggling with the high cost of living and deserve answers and accountability," the chair of the state Senate Transportation Committee, Tony Strickland, R-Huntington Beach, said in response to the findings. "Consultants should expect that when they make an executive decision to travel without authorization, that they’re taking on the expense themselves."

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/california-high-speed-rail-consultants-billed-taxpayers-private-plane-tiki-bars-cigar-lounges

Macy's posts strong results, raises guidance as turnaround begins to take holdMacy's posted strong fiscal second-quarter results on Thursday and raised its full-year guidance.{}

Macy's posted strong fiscal second-quarter results on Thursday and raised its full-year guidance.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/10/macys-m-q2-2026-earnings.html

Ford announces $1 billion investment at Kentucky plant following DOT criticism on ChinaFord Motor on Thursday announced a $1 billion investment to build a new paint shop at its crucial truck plant in Kentucky.{}

Ford Motor on Thursday announced a $1 billion investment to build a new paint shop at its crucial truck plant in Kentucky.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/10/ford-1-billion-investment-kentucky-plant.html

Video shows Waymo driverless vehicle stuck in 'AI loop' on flooded Phoenix streetA Waymo vehicle became stuck for more than 10 minutes in Phoenix floodwaters after getting caught in an "AI loop," according to eyewitness video.

A Waymo vehicle struggled to navigate a flooded street in Phoenix this month, becoming stuck for more than 10 minutes in an "AI loop," according to witnesses.

The car was filmed as it hesitantly moved back and forth, at one point almost backing into another car.

WAYMO GETS REGULATORY APPROVAL TO SCALE UP ROBOTAXI SERVICE ACROSS CALIFORNIA, ENTER 2 NEW MARKETS

"There were actually two Waymos holding up traffic," said Roger Pelkey, who captured the incident on video. "The one further up finally made it through. This one was stuck in an AI loop and frustrating drivers."

The video shows the vehicle continually moving slightly forward before backing up, as other vehicles with human drivers went around.

WAYMO RECALLS NEARLY 4,000 ROBOTAXIS AFTER CARS ENTER FREEWAY WORK ZONES

In May, Waymo suspended its driverless taxi operations across multiple cities — including Atlanta, San Antonio, Austin, Houston and Dallas — due to repeated incidents involving floodwaters.

The vehicles encountered severe weather and drove into submerged streets, with some becoming stranded or stuck in floodwaters.

Earlier this month, the company brought its driverless robotaxi service to Denver, San Diego and Tampa, expanding its fully autonomous ride-hailing service to 14 cities.

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FOX Business has reached out to Waymo for comment.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/technology/video-shows-waymo-driverless-vehicle-stuck-ai-loop-flooded-phoenix-street

Home sellers may have to 'take a hit' as rates rise, real estate experts sayThe Federal Reserve rate hike pushed 30-year mortgage rates to 7.14%, and real estate experts warn price reductions and a buyer's market may follow.

American homeowners expecting peak-market valuations are confronting a changing real estate landscape following the Federal Reserve’s latest interest rate decision.

Rising borrowing costs are shrinking the pool of qualified buyers, signaling a potential wave of price reductions for sellers seeking to close deals before year-end, real estate insiders told Fox News Digital.

"Sellers have… very high expectations. And it takes a while for sellers’ expectations to come down. And that's the reality," DaGrosa Capital Partners founder and chairman Joe DaGrosa told Fox News Digital. "With respect to buyers, I think a lot of people are going to have to wait it out. And wait and see a better situation on the mortgage front… [there’s] going to be some pressure. So I think it's going to be tough on buyers and it's going to be tough on sellers."

"Fewer buyers equals fewer opportunities to sell the home, less competitive environment. And so as a result, we're seeing a lot of sellers struggling to sell their homes in a market that otherwise would be a pretty strong market," Bowers Group Vice President at Compass Brett Rubin also said.

RYAN SERHANT REVEALS WHAT'S MISSING FROM AMERICA'S MIGRATION STORY: ‘STEALTH’ STATES BEATING FLORIDA, TEXAS

"And with that, we're starting to see homes sitting on the market a little bit longer, a lot more price reductions, hesitant buyers kind of sitting on their sidelines. And so this rate hike definitely has implications on both sides of the spectrum."

Federal Reserve policymakers voted 12-0 on Wednesday to raise the target range for the federal funds rate from 3.5%-3.75% to 3.75%-4%. The 25-basis-point increase marked the first interest rate hike since July 2023 and came after the Fed left rates unchanged at its first five meetings this year.

The average rate on a 30-year fixed refinance increased to 7.14% from 6.87% a week earlier, while the average 15-year fixed refinance rate was 6.30% Thursday, according to the Mortgage Research Center.

"The retail market sellers are going to realize that they've probably experienced 40%, 50% appreciation of their property values over the past 8 to 10 years… I think they're going to have to recognize that they're going to take a little bit of a hit if they want to sell," DaGrosa said. "And homebuilder sentiment is at its lowest in the past 12 months. It may get worse before it gets better. So you're seeing a double whammy for homebuilds, which is their cost of building homes has gone up."

"Some folks who need to sell their homes, they're full steam ahead as well, and they're just going to have to weather the storm for better or for worse," Rubin added. "Ultimately, if they need to reduce the price, that might be in the cards for them."

"I can see there being a correlation between, you know, rates increasing and home values decreasing. But I think it needs to be a really consistent increase over an extended period of time to really affect the market in that way," Rubin continued.

Millions of American homeowners remain reluctant to move because they hold mortgage rates below 4%, contributing to the so-called mortgage-rate lock-in effect. Sellers who need to move because of job relocations or life changes can face reluctant buyers and higher borrowing costs, the experts said.

"I think it's going to be a buyer's market in a few months, and if I were a buyer, I'd be in no rush to buy because I think there'll be relief from sellers. But for now, we're going to have a frozen market. I've seen this multiple times over the past 40 years," DaGrosa said.

"We use the term ‘golden handcuffs.’ The folks who have interest rates in the 3%, 4% range, they're not as incentivized to make that move and take on a larger mortgage payment with a higher interest rate. And so they're definitely going to be reconsidering that move if it's not something that's absolutely imperative," Rubin explained. "So while there's some truth to that, in the sense that folks who are comfortable are probably not going to move just because they feel like moving, there's always going to be folks who are buying and selling out of necessity. And unfortunately for those folks, they're going to have to weather the storm, whether they are encouraged by the rate environment or not."

As market inventory sits and seasonal slowdowns compound high interest rates, DaGrosa and Rubin anticipate a leverage shift. Sellers who delay price concessions may find themselves competing for a diminishing pool of qualified buyers, signaling that patient buyers may soon hold the bargaining power in upcoming sales cycles.

"For the average American, my view is there are going to be good deals coming over time," DaGrosa noted.

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"I'm feeling like there will be a slowdown," Rubin admitted. "So while we might not immediately realize what those effects are looking like at the moment, the spring market will certainly be more telling."

"It's the Wild West in real estate, and that's just sort of the norm, unfortunately," he added. "The sooner that folks realize that there is no kind of standard market anymore, the sooner that they're going to realize that this is what it is."

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FOX Business’ Eric Revell contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/real-estate/home-sellers-take-hit-rates-rise-real-estate-experts-say

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell says league could rework TV packages in next media dealThe NFL has an opt-out clause at the end of the 2029-30 season in which it can resell and redistribute its media rights.{}

The NFL has an opt-out clause at the end of the 2029-30 season in which it can resell and redistribute its media rights.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/10/nfl-roger-goodell-tv-packages-deal.html

Home sales fall in August despite the highest supply in over a decadeHome sales slowed again despite the highest supply of homes for sale in over a decade. Prices, however, continue to rise.{}

Home sales slowed again despite the highest supply of homes for sale in over a decade. Prices, however, continue to rise.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/10/home-sales-august-supply.html

Kimmel says interview with Senate candidate Talarico won't air on ABC amid FCC threatsABC has come under increased pressure from the FCC, and the Trump administration has raised concerns about equal air time for political candidates.{}

ABC has come under increased pressure from the FCC, and the Trump administration has raised concerns about equal air time for political candidates.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/10/abc-kimmel-talarico-fcc.html

NFL's Roger Goodell is playing the international long game ahead of league's Australia debutGoodell spoke with CNBC Sport ahead of the league's first-ever, regular-season game in Australia this week.{}

Goodell spoke with CNBC Sport ahead of the league's first-ever, regular-season game in Australia this week.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/09/10/nfl-commissioner-roger-goodell-international-future.html

Nvidia CEO draws line on AI safety after alarming incidents: 'If it’s not ready, just hold it back'Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang told leaders at a summit convened by King Charles that the AI industry must prioritize safety, while also projecting explosive financial growth.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang delivered a dual message of caution and explosive financial optimism at a recent Scottish summit convened by King Charles, urging the artificial intelligence industry to prioritize "good old-fashioned engineering" while forecasting that his company's chip sales will double next year.

While addressing mounting public anxiety over AI risks alongside leaders from Google DeepMind, OpenAI, and Anthropic, Huang made it clear that despite safety hurdles, the global AI gold rush is only accelerating.

When asked about Nvidia's financial horizon amid broader tech scrutiny, the chief executive delivered a massive projection that underscores relentless international demand.

BESSENT SAYS US NEEDS MORE OPEN-SOURCE AI MODELS TO COMPETE WITH CHINA

"I expect Nvidia to sell twice as many chips this next year as we do this year," Huang revealed, attributing the explosive growth to nations aggressively investing in localized AI infrastructure and cloud data centers.

Despite the bullish market outlook, Huang issued a stark directive to tech developers, warning them to keep half-baked products out of the hands of the public.

"It is the responsibility of the AI companies ourselves to develop the technology safely and to properly test it," Huang told reporters. Acknowledging recent industry incidents, he emphasized they serve as a critical wake-up call. "If it's not ready, just hold it back. You should go as fast as you can, but no faster than that."

Huang firmly rejected comparisons between the current AI boom and the largely unchecked rise of social media. He argued that AI is a foundational technology—like a newly developed airplane engine—that requires contained, rigorous testing before release. Rather than entirely new regulatory frameworks, he suggested governments adapt the "incredible number of laws" already governing existing sectors like healthcare and transportation, where AI is being implemented.

Environmental concerns were another major focal point, aligning with the King's mandate that AI must also serve the natural world. Addressing critics who fear massive AI data centers will drain global power grids, Huang acknowledged the "interesting dichotomy" of AI factories requiring immense energy.

However, he argued this relentless demand will actually catalyze a green energy revolution, sparking unprecedented investment in sustainable power options like fusion, fission, air, and hydro.

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"We want to be responsible in advancing the technology. Take responsibility and accountability for whenever there are mishaps," Huang concluded. "But don't lose sight of the ultimate prize, which is the incredible impact that the technology can bring to all the different economies and societies."

https://www.foxbusiness.com/fox-news-tech/nvidia-ceo-jensen-huang-ai-chip-sales-growth

Trump calls Canada's potential EU associate membership 'laughable,' warns Europe of 'very heavy tariffs'President Trump called Canada's proposed European Union associate membership "laughable" and threatened heavy tariffs on Europe if made with "bad intention."

President Donald Trump on Wednesday dismissed the prospect of Canada becoming an associate member of the European Union as "laughable," warning that the U.S. could impose heavy tariffs on Europe if he believed such a move was made with "bad intention."

Trump was asked by reporters about the prospect of Canada becoming the EU's first "associate member."

"I think it's laughable," Trump responded. "If they do that, if I think it's at all a hostile act, I will put very serious tariffs or stop trading with Europe on many things."

"If Europe does that with a bad intention – if it's a good intention, that's fine – if it's a bad intention, we'll put very heavy tariffs on Europe," he added.

EU OPENS DOOR TO UNPRECEDENTED 'ASSOCIATE MEMBER' STATUS FOR CANADA AMID US TRADE SPAT

Trump's comments come amid a trade conflict between two of North America's largest trading partners after U.S.-Canada trade talks collapsed last month, triggering a series of tit-for-tat tariff measures.

While speaking to reporters Wednesday, Trump also described Canada as a "terrible trade partner."

His comments came after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed Wednesday that Canada become the first associate member of the European Union as the two sides pursue a deeper economic and security partnership.

Speaking with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in attendance, von der Leyen said, "I would like to work with you on opening the door for Canada to be the first associate member of the EU."

TRUMP EXPANDS CANADA TRADE FIGHT WITH SWEEPING BAN ON CANADIAN IMPORTS

Von der Leyen said the two sides would move beyond their existing CETA trade agreement toward what she called an "Alliance for the Future," aimed at creating a common prosperity and economic security space. The proposed partnership would include cooperation in manufacturing, technology, defense, energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and the Arctic.

The EU overture comes as Canada looks for new trading opportunities beyond its longtime economic relationship with the U.S.

Carney, who is scheduled to address the European Parliament on Thursday, has pledged to double Canada's non-U.S. trade over the next decade while pursuing what he has called a "unique alliance" with the EU, rather than full membership.

Historically, the EU has balked at flexible alliances without a defined legal status, and any potential associate membership for Canada would ultimately be up to EU member states to decide.

BILLIONAIRE WARNS 'EVIL EMPIRE' WANTS TO 'CRIPPLE TRUMP,' CALLS OUT AMERICA'S NORTHERN NEIGHBOR

Trump's remarks came the same day his administration escalated a separate trade dispute with Canada.

Trump signed a presidential memorandum directing federal officials to identify Canadian-origin products that could be removed or made unavailable for purchase through the federal civilian procurement system.

The White House accused Canada of imposing barriers that disadvantage American companies seeking Canadian government contracts while Canadian businesses retain access to portions of the U.S. federal procurement market. The memorandum specifically cited Canada's "Buy Canadian" policy and restrictions imposed by Canadian provinces.

According to the White House, Canadian companies have access to more than $280 billion annually in U.S. federal procurement covered under the World Trade Organization's Agreement on Government Procurement.

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The Trump administration added that it would take action against what it described as "unreasonable," "discriminatory" and "unfair" trade practices.

FOX Business' Bradford Betz contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/trump-calls-canadas-potential-eu-associate-membership-laughable-warns-europe-very-heavy-tariffs

Walmart launches weeklong fall sale overlapping Amazon Prime Big Deal DaysWalmart's seven-day Deals & More event will overlap with Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days and feature discounts of up to 50% across select categories.

Walmart is rolling out a weeklong fall sales event that will overlap with Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days, giving consumers two major discount events during the early holiday shopping season.

The retailer's Deals & More event begins at 12 a.m. ET Oct. 5 and runs through Oct. 11, offering shoppers seven days of discounts across categories including home, tech, toys and Halloween items.

Amazon's "Prime Big Deal Days" are scheduled for Oct. 6-7, meaning the two sales events will overlap for two days.

A Walmart spokesperson told FOX Business that the company scheduled the event to align with customers' shopping habits.

E COLI BLUEBERRY RECALL EXPANDING TO FROZEN MIXED BERRY PACKAGES SOLD AT WALMARTS IN 16 STATES

"We plan our events around how and when our customers want to shop," the spokesperson said. "We know many customers are starting to think about the holidays earlier while also shopping for their everyday and seasonal needs, so we wanted to give them a full week to save in early October."

Ahead of the sale, Walmart has been advertising discounts of up to 50% on home items; 40% on tech; 30% on toys, food and Halloween products; 25% on tools; and 20% on wellness items.

"Heads up — big deals coming!" Walmart states on its website.

WALMART MAKES CHANGES TO HOW MILLIONS OF CUSTOMERS CAN PAY AT CHECKOUT

Unlike Amazon's Prime Big Deal Days, Walmart's sale is expected to be available to all shoppers and does not require a paid membership.

Amazon, meanwhile, said Prime Big Deal Days is an exclusive event for Prime members.

"Looking to get a head start on your holiday shopping? Prime members can start saving now ahead of Prime Big Deal Days 2026, returning October 6-7 with 48 hours of exclusive deals across more than 35 categories," Amazon said in a press release Monday.

WALMART E-COMMERCE SALES SURGE AS CEO TOUTS 'PRICE, SPEED AND CONVENIENCE'

Amazon said Prime members will be able to shop for millions of deals on brands, seasonal items and everyday essentials when the event begins at 12:01 a.m. PDT on Oct. 6, adding that early deals are already available.

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The company also encouraged shoppers who are not already Prime members to sign up or start a free trial to access the sale and other membership benefits.

Amazon told FOX Business it did not have any additional comment beyond the information available on its website.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/retail/walmart-launches-weeklong-fall-sale-overlapping-amazon-prime-big-deal-days

Paramount's California future in doubt amid escalating legal fightParamount declined to comment on reports it may leave California, prompting responses from state officials as the company battles a lawsuit over its Warner Bros. Discovery deal.

California officials responded Wednesday to reports that Paramount is preparing to ditch the state, though the company declined to comment, and no official announcement has been made.

Officials inside Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’ office and California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office were told Paramount planned to announce Tuesday that it was leaving the state, sources told TMZ.

The announcement never came, and the outlet said it was unclear whether the company changed course or merely delayed the decision. Separately, Politico is reporting that Paramount is actively looking for office space in Nashville.

Paramount declined to comment when reached by FOX Business.

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Bonta's office told FOX Business it could not comment on Paramount's plans but acknowledged that the company has repeatedly threatened to leave California.

"It's no secret that Paramount has been making this threat despite its alleged commitment to California and Hollywood," Bonta's office said in a statement. "What Paramount decides to do is Paramount's choice alone."

NEW PARAMOUNT CEO DAVID ELLISON ISSUES ULTIMATUM TO WORKERS

The attorney general's office said it will continue enforcing the law while remaining open to good-faith negotiations.

Bass' office told FOX Business the mayor remains focused on keeping entertainment jobs in the city.

PARAMOUNT-WARNER BROS DISCOVERY ANTITRUST TRIAL DATE SET; MERGER PUT ON PAUSE OVER LEGAL BATTLE

"Mayor Bass is focused on protecting and fighting for jobs in LA, including critical jobs in the entertainment industry that have been a vital part of Los Angeles’ economy," her office said in a statement. "She’s been engaged on this issue and will continue to fight to make sure LA is home to Hollywood."

The uncertainty comes as Paramount CEO David Ellison battles Bonta and 11 other state attorneys general over the company’s proposed $110 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery.

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The states sued in July to block the media megadeal, arguing it would reduce competition and give the combined company excessive market power in film distribution and basic cable programming.

Ellison has reportedly threatened to move Paramount to Texas, Tennessee or Georgia if the legal battle is not resolved by Oct. 1. Settlement talks are ongoing. The lawsuit is scheduled to go to trial in March if a settlement is not reached.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/paramounts-california-future-doubt-amid-escalating-legal-fight