Frustrated passengers lash out at long TSA lines; GOP messages to 'thank a Democrat'Massive TSA lines are choking airports nationwide as the government shutdown fuels staffing shortages during peak spring break travel season.

Airport security delays amid the partial government shutdown have created weekend travel nightmares, with massive TSA lines choking terminals across the country, unpaid officers calling out in growing numbers, and President Donald Trump vowing to send U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to airports to try to stem the tide of American angst.

"This is insane," a frustrated passenger told CNN at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International, regarded as the busiest airport in the world. "We didn't think it was going to be this bad."

"It's pandemonium out there," another added in videos posted to social media this weekend.

"We shouldn’t have to deal with this just to get on an airplane," an X poster raged — a complaint that now captures the mood at airports nationwide as travelers absorb the fallout from Washington’s funding fight.

TSA OFFICIAL WARNS SMALLER AIRPORTS COULD SHUT DOWN AMID DHS FUNDING CRISIS

The chaos is being fueled by deepening TSA staffing shortages during one of the busiest travel stretches of the season due to spring breaks for schools and colleges. Officers are working without pay under the shutdown, and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has warned absenteeism, resignations and delays are likely to worsen if the stalemate drags on.

More than 400 TSA workers have already quit since the shutdown began Feb. 14, according to DHS.

The immediate concern for travelers, though, is far more fundamental: getting through the checkpoint before their flight leaves.

DHS SHUTDOWN FORCES AIRPORTS TO TELL TRAVELERS TO ARRIVE 4 HOURS EARLY AMID MASSIVE DELAYS

Among the most eye-popping wait times and airport line scenes reported this weekend:

Atlanta (ATL): Reported wait of 153 minutes early Sunday, with lines described as wrapping around baggage claim. 

New Orleans (MSY): Security line reportedly stretched into the parking garage. 

Houston (IAH/HOU): Some passengers reportedly faced waits of up to two to three hours, with Hobby Airport hit especially hard by staffing shortages.

JFK (New York): Waits climbed to 75 minutes Sunday morning after being much lower a day earlier.

Newark (EWR): Delays reached 44 minutes at points.

LaGuardia (LGA): Waits rose to around 20 minutes, lower than other major hubs but still up from minimal waits the previous day.

Cincinnati (CVG): Third-party tracker estimates showed waits approaching nearly an hour.

San Juan (SJU): Third-party tracker estimates also showed waits approaching nearly an hour.

AIRPORT CHECKPOINT CLOSURES SPREAD AS TSA WARNS OF SECURITY 'THREAT,' MORE TRAVEL DELAYS

The full national picture remains murky because official TSA tools are no longer reliably current.

"Due to the lapse in federal funding, this website will not be actively managed," a red alert atop the My TSA app reads Sunday. "Click here for more information."

That link reveals the data has not been updated for more than a month:

AIRLINE CEOS TORCH LAWMAKERS FOR TURNING AIR TRAVEL INTO A ‘POLITICAL FOOTBALL’

"This website was last updated on February 17, 2026 and will not be updated until after funding is enacted. As such, information on this website may not be up to date. Transactions submitted via this website might not be processed and we will not be able to respond to inquiries until after appropriations are enacted."

VIDEO CAPTURES CRAZY AIRPORT CROWDS AS PASSENGERS POUR INTO TERMINAL AFTER SECURITY CHECKPOINTS CLOSE

DHS has said more than 10% of TSA officers called out on more than half of the past seven days, with some airports averaging absence rates near 20%. At Houston’s William P. Hobby Airport, the rate reportedly climbed above 40% on certain days. Those no-shows have forced lane closures, longer backups and wild swings in wait times from one hour to the next.

For weeks, Republicans in Congress have been sharing the narrative – with photos and videos of TSA security delays – "thank a Democrat."

Trump even went so far as to call Democrats the "greatest enemy" Americans face, as he continues to declare victory over Iran.

SHUTDOWN SPARKS FLIGHT CHAOS AS TSA LINES SPILL INTO PARKING LOTS WITH 3-HOUR WAITS OR LONGER

"Now with the death of Iran, the greatest enemy America has is the Radical Left, Highly Incompetent, Democrat Party!" Trump wrote Sunday morning on Truth Social.

Trump's post came after his vow to send ICE agents to overwhelmed TSA security checkpoints at American airports. Coincidentally, Democrats have forced the Senate's government shutdown for DHS funding over alleged abuse of power by ICE agents in Democrat-run sanctuary cities and states.

But, as Trump and Republicans frequently remind their counterparts, ICE is already fully funded since last summer's passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill, so shutting down DHS appropriations is not accomplishing its stated goals.

HOMELAND SECURITY REACTIVATES MAJOR GLOBAL ENTRY PROGRAM FOR TRAVELERS AMID SHUTDOWN

"On Monday, ICE will be going to airports to help our wonderful TSA Agents who have stayed on the job despite the fact that the Radical Left Democrats, who are only focused on protecting hard line criminals who have entered our Country illegally, are endangering the USA by holding back the money that was long ago agreed to with signed and sealed contracts, and all," Trump wrote on Truth Social, hailing border czar Tom Homan as the fixer the TSA chaos needs urgently.

"But watch, no matter how great a job ICE does, the Lunatics leading the incompetent Dems will be highly critical of their work. THEY WILL DO A FANTASTIC JOB. The great Tom Homan is in charge!!!"

Democrats blasted the idea, with Sen. Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn., calling it "another reckless, lawless threat to misuse ICE agents," and Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., accusing Trump of "manufacturing chaos at airports for political leverage."

TRUMP SAYS ICE WILL DEPLOY TO AIRPORTS MONDAY TO ASSIST TSA AMID FUNDING STANDOFF

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has warned the mess could get much worse, saying current delays may look like "child’s play" if TSA personnel miss another paycheck. Officials have even suggested some airports could face deeper disruptions — or possible closures — if the staffing crisis keeps intensifying.

For now, airports are urging travelers to arrive at least three hours early, even for domestic departures. But for passengers staring down marathon lines, the advice is landing more like a warning than reassurance: the shutdown is no longer just a fight in Washington — it is now a checkpoint crisis playing out in real time at airports across America.

"The current unpredictability is being driven by unpredictable staffing levels, basically, how many TSA officers are showing up for work on any given day," Sheldon H. Jacobson told Business Insider.

THUNE REVEALS REASON DEMOCRATS ARE 'SCARED' TO REOPEN DHS

"TSA officers have historically been cross-trained to do many different tasks, so the number that show up is the key factor," Jacobson said.

ICE agents are not specifically trained for airport security, the domain of TSA, which has 65,000 employees, including 50,000 airport security officers. ICE has played a central role in the Trump administration’s illegal immigration crackdown.

"He seems to have no concept of what the limits are on ICE, and I think America would be absolutely appalled to see ICE agents roaming through airports, just as they’ve been breaking down doors at homes," Blumenthal told reporters in Washington.

SCHUMER GAMBIT FAILS AS DHS SHUTDOWN HITS 36 DAYS AND AIRPORT LINES GROW

Elon Musk, the world’s richest person, on Saturday offered to cover TSA paychecks "during this funding impasse that is negatively affecting the lives of so many Americans at airports throughout the country."

Homeland Security historically has shifted resources across agencies during emergency staffing shortages, said Stewart Baker, who was a DHS policy official in President George W. Bush's administration. Keeping TSA going without paying staff creates "serious trouble" for the agency, Baker said.

Using ICE agents for airport security "may be slower than using trained people, but it would be better than having nobody," he added.

Reuters contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/frustrated-passengers-lash-out-long-tsa-lines-gop-messages-thank-democrat

Electric bills are becoming a midterm problem neither party can ignoreRising electricity bills are fueling midterm battles, with Republicans blaming failed energy policy and Democrats touting clean energy aid programs.

For millions of Americans, higher electricity bills are becoming a monthly frustration and a growing force in the midterm elections.

Unlike more volatile costs such as gasoline, electricity is a steady, unavoidable expense tied directly to basic needs — keeping the lights on, heating and cooling homes and powering everyday life. That makes it especially politically sensitive at a time when many households are still feeling squeezed by broader inflation and high housing costs.

AMERICANS HIT WITH SOARING ELECTRICITY BILLS AS PRICE HIKES OUTPACE INFLATION NATIONWIDE

The issue is giving both parties fresh campaign ammunition, with Republicans casting higher bills as evidence of failed energy policies, regulatory overreach and a shift away from fossil fuels, while Democrats point to bill assistance programs, grid investments and clean energy incentives aimed at easing pressure on household budgets over time.

The fight is unfolding amid sharp regional divides in electricity prices. Federal energy data shows residential power costs vary widely across the country, illustrating how affordability pressures differ not just by income, but by geography, infrastructure and energy mix.

The latest figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration put the national average at 17.24 cents per kilowatt-hour, up 6% from a year earlier — a jump that outpaces wage growth for many households and adds to cumulative cost pressures from rent, insurance and groceries.

North Dakota has the lowest average residential electricity rate in the country at 11.02 cents per kilowatt-hour, while Hawaii — an outlier shaped in part by geographic isolation and reliance on imported fuel — has the highest, at 41.62 cents per kWh.

Nebraska, Idaho, Oklahoma and Arkansas also rank among the cheapest states, while California, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and New York join Hawaii among the most expensive. Many of the higher-cost states are also pursuing aggressive clean energy transitions or maintaining older, more complex grid systems — factors that can raise near-term costs even as they aim to stabilize prices in the long run.

Several of the cheapest states are deep-red, a pattern Republicans are likely to seize on to reinforce broader arguments about energy policy and cost of living — even though power prices are shaped as much by geography, fuel availability, regulatory structures and long-term infrastructure investments as by partisan control.

THE STATES WHERE AMERICANS PAY THE MOST — AND LEAST — FOR ELECTRICITY

Cheap electricity, however, does not always mean affordable energy. Weather extremes, household consumption patterns, housing efficiency, aging infrastructure and state-level utility decisions all affect what families ultimately pay. In hotter or colder regions, for instance, even low rates can translate into high monthly bills due to heavy air conditioning or heating use.

Utilities are also seeking rate increases in many states to cover grid modernization, wildfire mitigation, storm hardening and the expansion of renewable energy — costs that are often passed on to consumers gradually but steadily.

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Even so, the partisan pattern may prove politically useful in a campaign season shaped by anxiety over household expenses and economic uncertainty.

Gas prices may grab more headlines, but electricity bills can be more politically durable: they arrive every month, are harder to cut quickly and are often tied to local utilities and regulators. That gives candidates a direct way to connect national energy debates to a tangible, recurring household cost and to voter frustration that is felt not at the pump, but at the kitchen table.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/monthly-bill-americans-cant-escape-shaping-up-midterm-weapon

The price of menstrual products is skyrocketing from inflation, tariffsWith rising inflation and changing tariff policies, menstrual products have seen a drastic rise in price over the past few years.{}

With rising inflation and changing tariff policies, menstrual products have seen a drastic rise in price over the past few years.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/22/menstrual-products-tampons-feminine-care-prices-inflation.html

United Airlines slashes flights as Iran war sends fuel prices soaringUnited Airlines becomes the first major U.S. carrier to cut flights as Iran war fuel prices soar, with CEO Scott Kirby slashing about 5% of capacity.

United Airlines is slashing flights as soaring fuel prices tied to the Iran war hit U.S. carriers, becoming the first major U.S. airline to announce a cut to capacity after weeks of industry warnings.

United CEO Scott Kirby said in a staff memo released Friday that the airline will cut about 5% of capacity by trimming less profitable routes. He said the company is preparing for a prolonged period of elevated fuel prices, modeling oil at $175 per barrel and expecting it could remain above $100 through the end of 2027.

"The reality is, jet fuel prices have more than doubled in the last three weeks," Kirby said in a statement. "If prices stayed at this level, it would mean an extra $11B in annual expense just for jet fuel. For perspective, in United’s best year ever, we made less than $5B."

Kirby stressed the airline is not panicking and plans to manage the short-term pressure by cutting unprofitable flying while continuing its long-term growth strategy.

ELON MUSK OFFERS TO PAY TSA WORKERS' SALARIES AMID DHS BUDGET STANDOFF

United said the cuts will total about 5 percentage points of its planned capacity, including roughly 3 points from off-peak flying such as midweek and overnight routes, about 1 point from reductions at Chicago O’Hare, and another 1 point tied to suspended service to Tel Aviv and Dubai. The airline expects to restore its full schedule in the fall.

Despite the pullback, Kirby said demand remains strong, noting that the airline has recorded its "10 biggest booked revenue weeks" in its history over the past 10 weeks.

He emphasized that United is not responding to the fuel shock with drastic measures seen in past downturns, such as furloughs or delaying aircraft orders. Instead, the airline plans to continue taking delivery of about 120 new planes this year, including 20 Boeing 787s, with another 130 aircraft due by April 2028, he said.

MAJOR AIRLINE SUSPENDS ABU DHABI FLIGHTS UNTIL END OF YEAR AMID AIRSPACE 'UNCERTAINTY'

"To be clear, nothing changes about our longer-term plans for aircraft deliveries or total capacity for 2027 and beyond, but there's no point in burning cash in the near term on flying that just can't absorb these fuel costs," he said.

The strategy, Kirby said, is to cut unprofitable flying in the near term while continuing to invest in long-term growth.

Other airlines, meanwhile, have so far stopped short of announcing major flight cuts, underscoring how United is among the first U.S. carriers to move from warnings to action as fuel costs surge.

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Delta Air Lines has said it could trim capacity if fuel prices stay elevated, according to Reuters, while other major U.S. carriers have so far relied on fare hikes to offset rising costs.

International carriers have moved faster, with airlines including Qantas, Scandinavian Airlines and Thai Airways raising prices, and Air New Zealand canceling more than 1,000 flights, according to earlier reports.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/united-airlines-slashes-flights-as-iran-war-sends-fuel-prices-soaring

Elon Musk offers to pay TSA workers' salaries amid DHS budget standoffElon Musk has offered to cover the salaries of TSA personnel during the ongoing funding impasse disrupting airports nationwide.

Elon Musk offered to cover the salaries of Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel during the ongoing government funding standoff.

"I would like to offer to pay the salaries of TSA personnel during this funding impasse that is negatively affecting the lives of so many Americans at airports throughout the country," Musk said in an X post on Saturday morning. 

Musk's offer comes as a partial government shutdown passes one month, with lawmakers unable to reach a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which oversees the TSA.

HOW MUCH DO GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWNS COST AMERICAN TAXPAYERS?

The DHS shutdown has left TSA agents working without pay, triggering staffing shortages and long airport lines nationwide, while raising concerns about the ability to prevent attacks.

Republicans have pushed to fund DHS, while Democrats have sought standalone funding for agencies like TSA that would exclude immigration operations.

TSA officers are considered essential employees and are required to report to work even during a shutdown, though pay can be delayed.

Musk’s offer appeared aimed at easing the strain as airport lines grow and staffing pressures build.

Major U.S. airports have experienced severe delays, with security wait times exceeding 3 hours in some cases, due to high TSA officer absenteeism. Hardest-hit airports include Houston (HOU, IAH), Atlanta (ATL), New Orleans (MSY), and Philadelphia (PHL). 

Footage from PHL, shot early Thursday morning, showed hundreds of passengers waiting on elevators and escalators to clear a security checkpoint.

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It comes as a top TSA union leader warned Thursday that airport security risks linked to the shutdown are set to "get worse," given that TSA has been under a hiring freeze since last year.

It remains unclear how Musk's proposed arrangement would work or whether it would be legally possible for a private individual to fund federal workers.

Fox News' Ashley J. DiMella and Taylor Penley contributed to this report. 

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/elon-musk-offers-pay-tsa-workers-salaries-amid-dhs-budget-standoff

Dave Ramsey warns young hopefuls locked out of housing market: 'Corporate America has screwed you'Rising debt and post-pandemic housing prices are pushing first-time buyers out, Dave Ramsey says, urging younger generations to clear debt first.

Young Americans are increasingly finding themselves shut out of the housing market as rising debt levels and lingering affordability pressures reshape the path to homeownership.

"The Ramsey Show" host Dave Ramsey joined FOX Business' Cheryl Casone on the FOX Business In Depth Special, "Hitting Home: Rebuilding the Dream," to break down the financial realities facing first-time buyers and why many are falling behind.

Ramsey pointed to a combination of record-high consumer debt and shifting economic conditions that have eroded buying power across younger generations.

"I'm afraid I have to tell you the truth. . . . Corporate America has screwed you," Ramsey said. 

"Car debt is at an all-time high. . . . Student loan debt is at an all-time high. . . . And, of course, credit card debt . . . is at a all-time high."

MIAMI OVERTAKES LOS ANGELES AND NEW YORK AS WORLD'S RISKIEST HOUSING MARKET FOR BUBBLE RISK

Those pressures, he explained, are leaving many without the financial flexibility to enter the housing market, as disposable income is increasingly consumed by monthly obligations.

"When you're drowning in personal debt, you can't afford to buy a freaking house," Ramsey said.

Beyond debt, Ramsey also highlighted the post-pandemic housing surge as a key factor pushing first-time-buyer ages higher, noting that supply shortages and elevated prices continue to weigh on affordability.

MORTGAGE RATES JUMP TO HIGHEST LEVEL IN OVER 3 MONTHS

Despite the challenges, Ramsey pushed back on the idea that homeownership is out of reach, arguing that progress is still possible for those willing to aggressively tackle debt.

"Our message to Gen Z and to millennials . . . is: clear this debt, get rid of the stupidity, and chop up the cards and work your way through it. . . . Once you do that, you can get there," Ramsey said.

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/finance-expert-says-corporate-america-has-screwed-you-young-buyers-get-locked-out-housing-market

Nissan’s new hybrid is a U.S.-first that mixes EV driving with a gas engineNissan plans to introduce a new type of hybrid for the U.S. market that drives like an all-electric vehicle but is powered by a traditional gas-powered engine.{}

Nissan plans to introduce a new type of hybrid for the U.S. market that drives like an all-electric vehicle but is powered by a traditional gas-powered engine.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/21/nissan-series-hybrid-rogue-suv.html

GLP-1 drugs are changing how Americans eat. Food companies are racing to catch upFor restaurants and food companies, the increasing adoption of GLP-1 drugs present both an opportunity and a threat to their businesses.{}

For restaurants and food companies, the increasing adoption of GLP-1 drugs present both an opportunity and a threat to their businesses.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/21/glp-1-diets-restaurants-protein-fiber-weight-loss-drugs.html

Amazon developing new AI-driven smartphone years after Fire Phone flop: reportAmazon is reportedly developing an AI smartphone codenamed "Transformer" with Alexa integration over a decade after its failed Fire Phone launch.

Amazon is reportedly developing a new smartphone more than a decade after scrapping its Fire Phone, with plans for an AI-driven device integrated with Alexa and its broader services ecosystem.

The tech giant's new effort is called "Transformer" and is being developed within the company's devices and services unit, according to Reuters, citing four people familiar with the project.

The outlet said the new phone could be a mobile personalization device able to sync with the voice assistant platform Alexa.

Details about the anticipated price of the phone, along with Amazon's financial commitment to the project and revenue projections, were not immediately clear.

AMAZON LAUNCHES 1-HOUR AND 3-HOUR DELIVERY OPTIONS WITH NEW TIERED PRICING STRUCTURE FOR CUSTOMERS

Sources told Reuters the project's timeline is also unclear, noting it could still be scrapped.

An Amazon spokesperson declined to comment to Reuters. Fox Business has reached out to Amazon for comment.

Amazon introduced the Fire Phone in 2014, packaging the product with a free year of Amazon Prime.

HSBC WEIGHS DEEP JOB CUTS AS AI OVERHAUL UNFOLDS: REPORT

While the smartphone was launched with a lot of hype, it received mixed reviews with complaints ranging from a lackluster operating system to its high price, which was initially $649.

The company canceled the smartphone after just 14 months, taking a $170 million charge for unsold inventory, Reuters reported.

Apple and Samsung together commanded about 40% of global smartphone sales last year, according to Counterpoint Research, a market Amazon would now be reentering with its reported new device.

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According to Reuters, the new smartphone would include personalization features that would allow users to easily access Amazon.com, Prime Video and food delivery apps like Grubhub.

The project is focused on integrating artificial intelligence into the device, which could eliminate the need for traditional app stores, the outlet added.

Reuters contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/amazon-developing-new-ai-driven-smartphone-years-fire-phone-flop-report

Artificial intelligence helps unlock geothermal potentialZanskar says its AI models have made more geothermal discoveries in three years than the industry found in 30, targeting untapped U.S. energy sources.

Geothermal energy has been around since earth’s creation and exists almost everywhere, yet harnessing its full potential has proven difficult since viable sources are often difficult to find. 

"The U.S. has a lot of it, and most of it in the U.S. is untapped. It's a tremendous sort of resource base that's waiting for us to go after it," Zanskar co-founder Joel Edwards said. 

Geothermal energy is generated by the Earth’s formation and ongoing radioactive decay. It is stored beneath the surface and accessed by drilling thousands of feet underground. 

"The great thing about geothermal energy is there's heat underground everywhere. The deeper you go into the earth, the hotter it gets. But there are some parts, certain regions, that just have hotter rocks," Edwards said.

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE HELPS FUEL NEW ENERGY SOURCES

Geothermal energy makes its way to the Earth’s surface through volcanoes, hot springs and geysers. It has been otherwise difficult to detect above ground until now. 

"We have made more discoveries in three years than the industry found in 30," Edwards said.  

Zanskar, a geothermal company, is making the search for hot sources more accurate. The company has built artificial intelligence models that are able to detect geothermal resources and target them with deeper drilling.

AMERICA MUST POWER AI WITH SPEED AND DISCIPLINE — OR CHINA WILL DOMINATE

"We have found dozens of sites, and they were either overlooked or they were just in areas where nobody had ever looked," Edwards said. "Once we find these systems, we're having much more success drilling into them because those models are better at sort of simulating all the possible orientations of a geothermal system."

Historically, geothermal production has carried risks of drilling into inefficient wells. There are safety risks in geothermal production and environmental concerns over air and water pollution. The uncertainty has caused delays in permitting and operational challenges. 

"What happens is you drill moderately productive wells, marginal wells, or you drill unproductive wells. All of those failures, they get rolled up into the total cost of a project, and that drives the cost of the project up," Edwards said.

NUCLEAR FUSION ADVANCES, BUT CHALLENGES REMAIN FOR POWER GRID

The best geothermal resources in the U.S. are located in the west, where much of the land is owned by the federal government. The Interior Department has implemented emergency permitting procedures to accelerate reviews of geothermal projects as part of President Trump’s energy agenda.  

"It takes typically like three to six, three to seven years to get these projects permitted. Luckily, in the last few years, there's been an urgency to cut red tape," Edwards said. "And that's already having a material benefit for some of these earlier stage projects." 

Artificial intelligence could also help streamline the regulatory process.

TRUMP SAYS EVERY AI PLANT BEING BUILT IN US WILL BE SELF-SUSTAINING WITH THEIR OWN ELECTRICITY

"What we have to do is work with our federal, state and local partners to drive those solutions that you're talking about. We cannot think of this technology as it's happening to us. We have to partner and utilize it just like everyone else," Exelon CEO Calvin Butler said. "AI should help us all become more efficient at what we do and get better at."

The geothermal industry has similar challenges and risks as oil and gas. The Society of Petroleum Engineers began promoting the use of AI as early as 2009. It has helped improve exploration, drilling and development. Studies show some of the same techniques could help geothermal production. 

"It sort of feels like where oil and gas was maybe 100-plus years ago," Edwards said. "We didn't know how much of it was out there and so forth. That's what geothermal feels like. 

"Like, it just feels like we've barely explored for it. We've got a little bit of it going right now. We kind of understand it. But now the market is out there, and the market's like, ‘We want this stuff.’"

As artificial intelligence helps fast-track new resources, there are still concerns over its immediate effect on the electric grid. 

"It's a challenge, but it's a huge opportunity. And that is what we are most excited about, the opportunity to be part of this journey, this next wave of the energy transformation, because we can't just look at it as a challenge and say, 'We don't know what to do,'" Butler said. 

"We're partnering with our technology partners and saying, ‘What can we do to make this a win-win for everyone?’"

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/artificial-intelligence-helps-unlock-geothermal-potential

Elon Musk misled Twitter investors ahead of acquisition, jury saysA California jury found Elon Musk misled Twitter investors ahead of his $44 billion acquisition, ruling on claims tied to fake bot account disputes.

A California jury on Friday concluded that Elon Musk misled Twitter investors ahead of his $44 billion acquisition of the social media giant in 2022.

The verdict from a jury in San Francisco federal court came in a closely watched trial in which Musk was accused of falsely claiming that Twitter underreported how many fake and spam accounts, known as bots, were on its platform.

Musk ultimately completed his purchase of Twitter in October 2022 and renamed it X. He has since folded it into his rocket and space exploration company SpaceX.

MUSK'S X SETTLES $128 MILLION SEVERANCE PAY LAWSUIT WITH FORMER TWITTER EXECUTIVES

The class action lawsuit, Pampena v. Musk, was filed in October 2022.

"This verdict sends a clear message — if you move the market with your words, you own the consequences," said Monte Mann, a trial lawyer at Armstrong Teasdale. 

"Going forward, this will have a real chilling effect. Executives and dealmakers will need to think carefully about how public statements can be interpreted — not just as disclosure but as part of the negotiation itself."

Twitter shareholders challenged Musk for having publicly questioned on three occasions after agreeing in April 2022 to buy Twitter whether the company was overrun with bots and perhaps had 20% or more rather than the 5% it disclosed.

Shareholders cited, among other things, a May 17, 2022, tweet in which Musk said his takeover "cannot go forward" until Twitter's chief executive proved the bot percentage was less than 5%.

"He trashed the company. Trashed the executives. And tanked the stock," the shareholders' lawyer, Mark Molumphy, said during his closing argument Tuesday.

TWITTER ACCEPTS MUSK'S $44B DEAL

Michael Lifrak, a lawyer for Musk, countered that the billionaire's concern about bots was real and that speaking out about the problem did not show Musk committed or intended to commit fraud.

Musk has on multiple occasions chosen to battle shareholders in court rather than settle, including in a 2023 trial concerning his electric car company Tesla and litigation over his $139 billion Tesla pay package.

He won both cases. Musk is now also in talks to settle a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission lawsuit accusing him of violating federal law by waiting too long in 2022 to disclose his initial purchases of Twitter so he could scoop up more before investors caught on.

TWITTER'S ICONIC BIRD SIGN FROM FORMER SAN FRANCISCO HQ SELLS FOR NEARLY $35K AT AUCTION

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The trial in San Francisco began March 2. The lawsuit covers investors who sold Twitter stock between May 13, 2022, and Oct. 4, 2022.

"The verdict isn’t just about Musk, it’s about the rules of engagement for modern dealmaking," Mann said.

Musk is the world's richest person with a net worth of $839 billion, according to Forbes.

Reuters contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/business-leaders/elon-musk-misled-twitter-investors-ahead-acquisition-jury-says

LARRY KUDLOW: A Reconciliation Bill Is the Only Way To Keep Our Military Great & Our Democracy IndestructibleThe funding will not only complete the mission in Iran, but also uphold President Trump’s policy of peace through strength

The next fight in the Iran war is likely going to be the Pentagon’s request for $200 billion to keep our military in tip-top shape, not only to complete the mission in Iran, but also to maintain President Trump’s policy of peace through strength. We want the best for our men and women in the services. Soldiers, sailors, airmen. They must have everything they need, today, tomorrow, and frankly forever.

Yet you can bet the Democrats will use this war financing request for their anti-war propaganda and will seek to block this crucial funding bill. I want to pause here before talking about Ways and Means to get the money for our military. We should not forget the chilling narrative brought back by the special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, after the last set of talks with Iran. Essentially, they bragged to Mr. Witkoff and his partner Mr. Jared Kushner that they had 460 kilograms of 60 percent-enriched uranium. Right there, that ended the talks because they would never give it up.

But here’s the point: when you’re at 60 percent enrichment, you can bring it to 90 percent in seven to 10 days, according to Mr. Witkoff and many other analysts. And the 460 kilograms of enriched uranium would be enough to create 11 nuclear bombs. That’s how close Iran is. And that’s because so many presidents before Mr. Trump neglected to do anything about Iran’s nuclear advances.

Now Democrats might say the Iranians don’t have the delivery system. Really? Well, they can deliver that nuclear bomb to neighboring Israel, very quickly. Or to our allies throughout the Middle East. Or to the underbelly of Europe. Whether they are capable of producing an intercontinental ballistic missile is unknown, but there are a lot of estimates out there that it will be much shorter than generally assumed. Why risk any of that?

And of course, we are seeing Iran using shorter term missiles against oil and gas-producing countries right next door. Or bottling up the Strait of Hormuz and threatening the global economy. And since the early 1980s, let’s not forget, our State Department has classified Iran as the largest state sponsor of terrorism. And of course Iran has been waging war against the United States for 47 years, death to America, remember that? Not to speak of death to Israel. The little Satan and the big Satan. That’s how they see us. Let’s not forget that either.

This Democratic argument that there was no imminent threat has always been a bunch of phony balderdash. And we must not deny funding that may well be necessary to complete the mission in Iran.

Now, as important as this Pentagon request is, because the anti-war Democrats will probably all vote against it in the Senate with perhaps Senator John Fetterman’s exception, the GOP is not going to get 60 votes for the appropriation. And that’s why I believe it must be done as a reconciliation bill which will require only 50 votes, plus the vice president.

Speaker Mike Johnson and the House Budget Chairman, Jodey Arrington, have already moved to prepare a reconciliation bill. So far, Senate leadership has shown no enthusiasm for it. But I’m here to tell you it is the only way you’re going to get the necessary military spending. And the GOP will have to put its nose to the grindstone just like it did about a year ago, and put together a great reconciliation bill. There will be spending offsets, waste, fraud, and abuse cutbacks, plenty of room for some entitlement reforms. Perhaps even some supply side pro-growth tax reforms, but the most important issue will be our national security, completing the mission in Iran, and maintaining peace through strength.

One more point, the all-important SAVE America voting rights bill, which frankly will not get 60 votes in the Senate for passage, can be inserted into a reconciliation package. Or at least we should try. Because proof of citizenship, photo ID cards, and other aspects will lay down national rules that must be enforced, and that will require money.

My guess is the Department of Homeland Security would be the appropriate election monitoring agency, just as securing the border required a significant fiscal expansion, so will enforcing the voting rights bill. So I’m here to tell you that the cleverest minds in Congress should put their heads together and generate a strong reconciliation package that will keep our military might and maintain proper voting laws to uphold the greatest democracy in the history of history.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/larry-kudlow-reconciliation-bill-only-way-keep-our-military-great-our-democracy-indestructible

The spring housing market is on, but mortgage rates just shot higher. Here's what to know.This spring's housing market is on, but economic headwinds are pushing back most of the advantage that buyers have gained over the past year in affordability.{}

This spring's housing market is on, but economic headwinds are pushing back most of the advantage that buyers have gained over the past year in affordability.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/20/spring-housing-market-mortgage-rates.html

Gas ranges sold at US retailers are being recalled over burn hazard riskFrigidaire gas ranges are being recalled by Electrolux Group over a delayed ignition burn hazard. The CPSC says about 174,000 units sold in the U.S. and Canada are affected.

Electrolux Group is recalling more than 174,000 Frigidaire gas ranges due to an oven-related issue that poses a burn hazard to users.

The recall affects about 169,500 units sold in the U.S. and 5,300 in Canada, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. 

The agency said the ovens in the ranges can experience delayed ignition of the bake burner, which poses a risk of burn hazards to users.

90,000 BOTTLES OF CHILDREN'S IBUPROFEN RECALLED NATIONWIDE, FDA SAYS

The recall involves Frigidaire, Frigidaire Gallery and Frigidaire Professional gas ranges models:

The models have the serial number range of VF52200000 through VF54399999. Both numbers are printed on a nameplate located in the drawer beneath the oven.

The CPSC said consumers should stop using the recalled ranges immediately and contact Electrolux, which will provide in-home installation of a new bake burner for free. The agency said consumers can still use the cooktop burners on the range.

CHOCOLATE CANDY SOLD AT LIDL RECALLED OVER UNDECLARED HAZELNUT ALLERGEN

Electrolux and the CPSC are aware of 62 reports of the oven’s bake burner delayed ignition, including 30 reports of burn injuries.

The ranges were sold at Lowe's, Home Depot and other retailers nationwide, as well as through Frigidaire's website from June 2025 through January 2026 for between $630 and $2,700.

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/gas-ranges-sold-us-retailers-being-recalled-over-burn-hazard-risk

Hyundai recalls more than 61,000 SUVs in the US after a child's deathHyundai is recalling more than 61,000 Palisade SUVs in the U.S. over a power seat defect that has been linked to a child's death. A remedy is under development.

Hyundai Motor Company is recalling more than 61,000 Palisade SUVs in the U.S. after an issue with powered seats was linked to the death of a child, federal regulators said.

The recall affects model year 2026 Palisade and Palisade Hybrid vehicles equipped with the Limited and Calligraphy trim packages, the automaker said in a recall report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

"The 2nd and 3rd row power seat assemblies equipped in the subject vehicles may not respond to contact with an occupant or object as intended during activation of certain powered seat functions, including the automatic power-folding (stow) function and the ‘one-touch’ tilt-and-slide (walk-in) feature of the 2nd row power seat assembly," the report said.

HYUNDAI STOPS SALES OF CERTAIN SUVS AFTER 2-YEAR-OLD GIRL'S DEATH

The announcement comes after a young child died in an incident involving a Palisade that is still under investigation, according to the automaker.

Reuters reported the victim was a 2-year-old girl from Ohio who was killed March 7.

"Hyundai is aware of a tragic incident involving a Palisade," the company said in a press release March 13. "While Hyundai does not yet have the full details and the incident is still under investigation, a young child lost her life. Hyundai extends its deepest sympathies to her family."

TOYOTA RECALLS 550,000 VEHICLES OVER SEAT DEFECT

The South Korean automaker said last week it is pausing sales of the Palisades with the Limited and Calligraphy trim packages following the incident.

Hyundai said in the recall notice it received four reports of minor injuries related to second-row seat operation.

FORD RECALLS MORE THAN 83,000 VEHICLES OVER HEADLIGHT, ENGINE VALVE ISSUES

A recall remedy is under development. Until it becomes available, the automaker warned owners of the affected vehicles to use caution when operating the second- and third-row power-folding seat functions.

Hyundai also said owners should "avoid contacting the ‘one-touch’ tilt-and-slide button located on the 2nd row setback … during entry and exit of the 3rd row and take measures to prevent inadvertent activation of this feature."

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FOX Business' Ashley Carnahan contributed to this report.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/hyundai-recalls-more-than-61000-suvs-us-after-childs-death

David Zaslav’s WBD-Paramount deal payout highlights new 'golden parachutes' for CEOsWBD CEO David Zaslav could see a payout of more than $800 million after the Paramount Skydance deal.{}

WBD CEO David Zaslav could see a payout of more than $800 million after the Paramount Skydance deal.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/20/wbd-david-zaslav-pay-paramount.html

'Marriage penalty' in Washington state's new millionaire tax stirs debateWashington state's first-ever income tax would impose a 9.9% tax on income of more than $1 million a year.{}

Washington state's first-ever income tax would impose a 9.9% tax on income of more than $1 million a year.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/20/washington-millionaire-tax-marriage.html

Gingrich sends warning to Europe as US carries allies amid Iran conflictNewt Gingrich says Europe has long relied on U.S. protection since World War II and must now do its fair share amid rising tensions in the Middle East.

European tensions are resurfacing as questions grow over burden sharing in global conflicts, and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich argued long-standing imbalances between the U.S. and its allies are becoming harder to ignore.

Fox News contributor Newt Gingrich joined FOX Business' Stuart Varney on "Varney & Co." to discuss the widening divide between the United States and Europe as the conflict in the Middle East continues to test international alliances.

Gingrich pointed to what he described as a fundamental disconnect in expectations, saying Europe has grown reliant on American leadership for decades.

"The fact that we protected Europe from having liberated it after World War II. We protected it all through the Cold War. We are still the primary protectors of Europe. They need to learn to do their fair share," Gingrich said.

KEVIN O'LEARY FORECASTS GLOBAL POWER SHIFT IN STRAIT OF HORMUZ AS IRAN CONFLICT RATTLES OIL MARKETS

As pressure builds around key global shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz, Gingrich suggested the burden of maintaining stability continues to fall largely on the U.S.

"It may take a substantial campaign, but I think in two or three weeks, if we focus on it, we can break the back of the Iranian effort to close the Strait," Gingrich said.

He framed the issue as part of a broader philosophical divide, arguing that the U.S. is focused on innovation and forward momentum, while Europe leans more heavily on regulation.

"We think you're going to get to the future by innovation. They think you can hide from the future by regulation. It doesn't work," Gingrich said.

Despite calls for stronger allied coordination, Gingrich suggested Europe's military limitations mean its role would likely remain secondary.

CHINESE MISSILES TARGETING US NAVY COULD TRIGGER ‘OVERNIGHT’ WAR SHIFT, EXPERT WARNS

"It would be nice if they would help a little bit. It would make people feel better if they would help a little bit," he said.

Still, he emphasized that the outcome of ongoing conflicts will ultimately hinge on U.S. and allied strength, not symbolic contributions.

"In the end, it's the American-Israeli coalition, which is gonna win this fight. ... Having one ship from France or one ship from Britain is not a very big contribution. ... The truth is, if you look at the British Navy right now, it is so underfunded, they can't do very much. They just don't have the capacity," Gingrich concluded.

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/gingrich-warns-europe-do-fair-share-us-carries-allies

HSBC weighs deep job cuts as AI overhaul unfolds: reportGlobal banking giant HSBC Holdings Plc is considering significant job reductions thanks to artificial intelligence, a Bloomberg report indicated.

Global banking giant HSBC Holdings Plc is considering significant job reductions in the years ahead, as CEO Georges Elhedery bets on artificial intelligence to downsize middle and back offices, Bloomberg reported.

The greatest impact is anticipated to be seen among non-client-facing positions in global service centers, but the evaluation is only in an early stage, according to individuals familiar with the issue, the outlet reported. The moves could impact about 20,000 roles, or around 10% of the organization's full workforce, one of the individuals reportedly said.

The deliberations began prior to the eruption of war in the Middle East, and a final decision has not been made, some of the individuals said, according to the report.

META EYES MASSIVE 20% WORKFORCE CUT AS AI INFRASTRUCTURE COSTS CONTINUE TO SOAR ACROSS OPERATIONS: REPORT

The assessment includes positions where the company will not replace workers, some of the individuals noted, but no final decision has been determined. 

Some downsizing may occur due to business sales or exits, according to one of the sources, Bloomberg reported.

The company's job reductions would occur as part of a medium-term plan covering three to five years, one of the individuals familiar with the matter said, the outlet noted.

GOOGLE COMMITS $1B TO NORTH CAROLINA DATA CENTERS AS AI DEMAND SURGES

HSBC declined to provide Fox News Digital with a comment about the Bloomberg report.

But HSBC, which indicates on its website that it "is one of the world's largest banking and financial services organisations," has been open about embracing AI.

WHITE HOUSE UNVEILS ITS FIRST NATIONAL AI FRAMEWORK, PUSHES CONGRESS TO ACT ‘THIS YEAR’

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"In 2025, we accelerated the adoption of Generative AI (‘GenAI’) across HSBC, moving from experimentation to scaled delivery," the company's Annual Report and Accounts 2025 noted. "Through 2026, we intend to expand enterprise-wide adoption of AI tools and strive to embed AI deeper into our core processes."

https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/hsbc-weighs-deep-job-cuts-ai-overhaul-unfolds-report

Sudanese Civil War Escalates as Drone Strikes Deepen Civilian Toll and Regional Risks

Sudanese Civil War Escalates as Drone Strikes Deepen Civilian Toll and Regional Risks

UNITED NATIONS, March 20 (IPS) - The past two weeks have marked a significantly violent escalation in the Sudanese Civil War, with drone strikes and artillery shelling between the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) causing widespread destruction, casualties, and displacement. With humanitarian responses critically underfunded and the scale of needs, including the hunger crisis, continuing to grow, experts warn that millions in Sudan could be affected by famine, violence, or prolonged displacement.

Read the full story, “Sudanese Civil War Escalates as Drone Strikes Deepen Civilian Toll and Regional Risks”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/03/20/42602 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/03/Sudanese-family-in-rural_-100x100.jpg"}

FedEx beats on top and bottom lines, raises guidance on strong performanceFedEx posted strong fiscal third quarter results on Thursday and raised its guidance following a strong performance.{}

FedEx posted strong fiscal third quarter results on Thursday and raised its guidance following a strong performance.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/19/fedex-fdx-q3-2026-earnings.html

Nexstar, Tegna merger closes after winning regulatory approvalNexstar has closed its $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna after winning approval from the Federal Communications Commission and Department of Justice.{}

Nexstar has closed its $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna after winning approval from the Federal Communications Commission and Department of Justice.https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/20/nexstar-tegna-merger-closes-after-winning-regulatory-approval-.html

Fed’s Bowman says she’s written in 3 interest rate cuts before year-endFederal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman says she has penciled in three rate cuts before the end of 2026, citing concerns about the U.S. labor market.

Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman said on Friday that she’s penciled in multiple rate cuts before the end of the year.

"I'm still concerned about the job market," Bowman, considered one of the more hawkish members of the Federal Open Market Committee, said during an interview on FOX Business Network's "Mornings with Maria." I want to see a little bit of recovery there. But, of course, I've written three cuts in for before the end of 2026 to hopefully support the labor market."

Bowman also said she expects to continue to see strong economic growth this year.

FEDERAL RESERVE HOLDS INTEREST RATES STEADY

Her comments come after the FOMC on Wednesday voted 11-1 to leave the benchmark federal funds rate unchanged at a range of 3.5% to 3.75%. It marked the second straight meeting with rates being held steady after three successive 25-basis-point cuts in September, October and December to end last year.

Policymakers also released a summary of economic projections (SEP), which showed that the median projection for interest rates sees just one 25 basis point cut the rest of this year followed by a single cut of that size in 2027.

WILL THE FEDERAL RESERVE CUT INTEREST RATES IN 2026?

"In our SEP, FOMC participants wrote down their individual assessments of an appropriate path for the federal funds rate under what each participant judges to be the most likely scenario for the economy," Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said. "The median participant projects that the appropriate level of the federal funds rate will be 3.4% at the end of this year and 3.1% at the end of next year, unchanged from December."

During the press conference following the Fed’s interest rate decision, Powell was asked what officials were seeing that led them to project a cut despite higher forecasts for both inflation and unchanged projections for the unemployment rate and economic growth. 

FED'S POWELL SAYS IT'S 'TOO SOON TO KNOW' IRAN WAR'S IMPACT ON ECONOMY

"Essentially, the forecast is that we will be making some progress on inflation, not as much as we had hoped, but some progress on inflation," Powell said. "It should come as we start to see in the middle of the year progress on tariffs going through once and then tariff inflation coming down. We should be seeing that."

The latest rate decision comes amid a softening labor market and growing uncertainty over the war in Iran. Similar to Powell, Bowman said it’s too soon to know how the conflict in the Middle East will affect the U.S. economy.

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"I think it's too early to tell what the longer-term imprint will be on U.S. economic activity and how we should think about that in terms of our longer-term economic forecast and how we should think about that in terms of our FOMC meetings and any rate changes that we might make as a result of economic evolution going forward."

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/feds-bowman-says-shes-written-3-interest-rate-cuts-before-year-end

Gold Trump coin moves forward after Treasury invokes rare authorityThe U.S. Mint is advancing a gold commemorative coin featuring President Trump after the Commission of Fine Arts approved a design, Treasury officials say.

The U.S. Mint is moving forward with a gold commemorative coin featuring President Donald Trump after a federal arts commission approved a design Thursday, with Treasury officials citing a legal authority that allows the inclusion of a sitting president despite longstanding restrictions.

FOX Business confirmed with a source familiar with the Commission of Fine Arts that the design shown is the mock-up approved by the panel, clearing a key step toward production of the coin.

The move is notable because federal law traditionally bars living individuals from appearing on U.S. currency, but Treasury officials say a separate statutory authority allows the minting of gold coins that can feature the sitting president, setting up a potential break from long-standing precedent.

"As we approach our 250th birthday, we are thrilled to prepare coins that represent the enduring spirit of our country and democracy, and there is no profile more emblematic for the front of such coins than that of our serving President, Donald J. Trump," U.S. Treasurer Brandon Beach said in a statement provided to FOX Business.

TRUMP WAIVES JONES ACT FOR 60 DAYS IN BID TO FREE UP THE FLOW OF OIL TO US PORTS

Beach added that the proposed commemorative gold coin would be separate from circulating currency and fall under the Treasury secretary’s discretion.

"The Secretary has sole discretion on final design selection," the statement said, noting the process followed review opportunities presented to advisory bodies.

The move would mark a rare instance of a sitting U.S. president appearing on a government-issued coin.

Treasury officials pointed to a provision under federal law, 31 U.S.C. § 5112, that allows the secretary to authorize bullion and proof gold coins with specifications, designs and inscriptions determined at their discretion.

FED'S POWELL SAYS IT'S 'TOO SOON TO KNOW' IRAN WAR'S IMPACT ON ECONOMY

The authority allows coins to be issued "in accordance with such designs… and inscriptions as the Secretary… may prescribe from time to time," according to the statute cited by Treasury officials.

The Treasury statement also noted that the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC) declined to review the proposed designs, while the Commission of Fine Arts (CFA) "has taken every opportunity to review thus far."

Officials said the Mint fulfilled its statutory obligation to seek CCAC input despite the panel opting not to weigh in on the designs.

The approved design features Trump in a suit and tie with a stern expression, leaning forward with his hands resting on a desk in a forceful pose, according to materials presented to the commission.

BESSENT RULES OUT GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION IN OIL FUTURES MARKET DURING IRAN WAR

The coin includes "LIBERTY" along the top and the dates "1776–2026," marking the nation’s semiquincentennial.

The reverse side is expected to depict a bald eagle in flight alongside traditional inscriptions including "UNITED STATES OF AMERICA" and "E PLURIBUS UNUM."

The Associated Press first reported that the Commission of Fine Arts approved the design without objection during its March meeting on Thursday.

The effort represents a departure from traditional practice, as U.S. currency has historically avoided depicting living individuals, though commemorative and bullion coins operate under different rules.

Officials said the coin will be part of a limited production run, with final details on size and denomination still under consideration.

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The coin is tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebrations in 2026, with Treasury officials framing the effort as part of a broader initiative to mark the milestone.

The White House did not immediately respond to FOX Business' request for comment.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/gold-trump-coin-moves-forward-after-treasury-invokes-rare-authority

TB Risk Should not Depend on Where We Are Born

TB Risk Should not Depend on Where We Are Born

WASHINGTON DC, March 20 (IPS) - In many high-income countries, even a small number of tuberculosis (TB) diagnoses can generate headlines and prompt a rapid public health response. Recent situations in U.S. cities such as Seattle and San Francisco illustrate this, where media coverage has focused on the number of children being tested after TB disease was identified in a school.

Read the full story, “TB Risk Should not Depend on Where We Are Born”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/03/20/42601 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2025/03/cdc-y-8fqaK1kY-unsplash-100x100.jpg"}

Running on Sunshine: Pakistan’s Solar Boom to Tide Over Middle East Energy Crisis

Running on Sunshine: Pakistan’s Solar Boom to Tide Over Middle East Energy Crisis

KARACHI, Pakistan, March 20 (IPS) - Energy expert Vaqar Zakaria believes solar power makes “excellent economic sense” – and he lives by it. For over five years, his rooftop panels have slashed his bills, sometimes to zero, even allowing him to sell surplus electricity back through net metering.

Read the full story, “Running on Sunshine: Pakistan’s Solar Boom to Tide Over Middle East Energy Crisis”, on globalissues.org →

https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/03/20/42600 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/03/SPHF-100x100.jpeg"}

4 flight attendants injured on Delta flight to Sydney after plane experiences 'brief turbulence'Four Delta Air Lines flight attendants were injured during turbulence on a flight bound for Sydney, with three hospitalized but no passengers hurt.

Four Delta Air Lines flight attendants were injured on Friday after a flight bound for Australia experienced what the airline described as "brief turbulence."

The flight, carrying 245 passengers and 15 crew members, was headed from Los Angeles, California, to Sydney, Australia, when the turbulence began.

The Airbus A350 was hit by the turbulence as it descended, but Delta said the aircraft landed "safely and normally" at the Sydney airport.

US FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS, GROUND DELAYS SURGE AS MASSIVE MARCH STORM DISRUPTS TRAVEL

Three of the injured flight attendants were sent to the hospital for medical treatment. No passengers reported any injuries.

"Delta flight 41 from Los Angeles encountered brief turbulence upon descent into Sydney, and four flight attendants reported injuries," an airline spokesperson said in a statement to FOX Business.

"Nothing is more important than the safety of our people and our customers, and our priority is taking care of the impacted crew members," the statement continued.

The flight landed in Sydney on Friday morning after departing Los Angeles on Wednesday night local time.

NSW Ambulance was alerted at about 6.45 a.m. local time, just minutes before the aircraft landed, according to flight data.

AIRLINES CANCEL FLIGHTS, ISSUE TRAVEL WAIVERS OVER MIDDLE EAST UNREST

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Emergency responders said they treated five people who sustained minor injuries, according to The Sydney Morning Herald, although it is unclear why their injury total is different from Delta's.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/fox-news-travel/4-flight-attendants-injured-delta-flight-sydney-after-plane-experiences-brief-turbulence

90,000 bottles of children's ibuprofen recalled nationwide, FDA saysThe FDA has recalled nearly 90,000 bottles of children's ibuprofen after complaints of a gel-like mass and black particles in the product.

Nearly 90,000 bottles of children’s ibuprofen have been recalled over the potential presence of a foreign substance, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Strides Pharma, Inc., headquartered in India, recalled about 89,592 bottles of its 100-milligram Children's Ibuprofen Oral Suspension, the FDA said. 

The affected product was manufactured for Taro Pharmaceuticals USA and distributed across the U.S.

The ibuprofen was sold in 4-fluid-ounce bottles at 100 milligrams per 5 milliliters.

HERBAL SUPPLEMENT FOUND TO CONTAIN HIDDEN VIAGRA INGEDIENT, FDA URGES CONSUMERS TO STOP USE

The packages included the lot numbers 7261973A and 7261974A with an expiration date of Jan. 31, 2027.

The recall was first issued earlier this month after complaints of a gel-like mass and black particles in the product.

GM RECALLS 17K VEHICLES OVER REAR TOE LINK FRACTURE THAT COULD LEAD TO CRASHES

But the FDA updated the classification this week to a Class II recall, which means "use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote."

The Class II classification is the FDA's second-highest urgency level.

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Consumers who purchased the recalled ibuprofen are urged to stop using it immediately.

Parents with concerns after a child has consumed the product should consult a healthcare provider.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/bottles-childrens-ibuprofen-recalled-nationwide-fda-says

Restaurant robot goes haywire, sends tableware flying before breaking out in dance movesA Haidilao hot pot robot went viral after spinning out of control in Cupertino, striking tableware and breaking into wild dance moves near stunned diners.

Bizarre footage has captured the chaotic moment a service robot appeared to spin out of control at a restaurant near San Jose, California, violently striking a customer’s food and tableware without warning before abruptly breaking into a series of erratic dance moves. 

The wild incident was captured in a viral video in Cupertino at a Haidilao hot pot location, a chain known for integrating artificial intelligence and robotic technology to help streamline operations, including delivering food to tables.

In the video, the robot appeared to begin a dance routine near diners before suddenly pounding a neighboring table, sending tableware, chopsticks and condiments flying off the surface.

Staff members then struggled to restrain the uncontrollable humanoid as it continued to move with even greater energy, appearing to hype up the crowd with its wild gestures. 

GRUBHUB LAUNCHES FIRST-EVER COMMERCIAL DRONE FOOD DELIVERY SERVICE IN NEW JERSEY

The robot carried on for another minute with a condiment-stained hand as it displayed a cheerful expression.  

The restaurant reportedly said the robot’s sudden attack on the dining space was caused by human error and was not a programming malfunction. The bot simply appeared too close to the table when it began its entertainment routine.

DELL WORKFORCE SHRINKS BY 10% FOR THIRD CONSECUTIVE YEAR

"In this case, the robot was brought closer to a dining table at a guest’s request, which is not its typical operating setting," Haidilao said in a statement, NBC reported. "The limited space affected its movement during the performance."

The robots, which are more widespread in China than overseas, have been used by the Beijing-based company for years.

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In 2022, the tech-forward dining chain launched its first smart restaurant worldwide in Beijing, featuring tools such as an intelligent kitchen management system, automatic broth-mixing machines and robot servers.  

FOX Business reached out to Haidilao for more information.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/restaurant-robot-goes-haywire-sends-tableware-flying-breaking-dance-moves

Penn professor says Zillow 'systematically deceives consumers' about agent connectionsA Wharton study alleges Zillow deceives users about agent connections with only 0.3% understanding they're not reaching listing agents but paid affiliates.

A University of Pennsylvania Wharton professor published a paper that claims Zillow users don’t know who they’re being connected with when they select an agent, alleging that Zillow-affiliated agents drive users to Zillow’s home mortgages. 

Professor Jerry Wind’s study showed only 0.3% of users understood they would not be connected with the listing agent when selecting the tabs "Contact an agent" or "Request a tour."

"This study provides empirical evidence that Zillow's interface design systematically deceives consumers about a fundamental aspect of the homebuying process," the conclusion of Wind’s paper states. 

TRUMP-BACKED AFFORDABLE HOUSING OVERHAUL CLEARS SENATE, WHILE HOUSE GOP RAISES RED FLAGS

"[Consumers] are not contacting the listing agent. They are being routed to agents who pay Zillow for access to their information, agents who are therefore financially incentivized to steer them toward Zillow's mortgage products."

FOX Business sat down with Wind to discuss his findings and what he believes are the biggest takeaways.

"My understanding is that the incentive is, one major incentive is that they get the name, and once they get their name and they succeed in selling the house, they have to pay Zillow up to 40% of their commission," the professor told Fox News Digital. 

"So, that's what Zillow gets out of this. The agent, obviously, gets a lead.

"And if the agent does not … recommend Zillow’s mortgage to the customers, Zillow, I understand, may basically stop giving them leads," Wind continued. "So, there is a real carrot and stick here in terms of encouraging the agents to [encourage] their customers to use Zillow's mortgage."

Wind joined the Wharton faculty in 1967 and is the Lauder Professor Emeritus and a professor of marketing.

PAIGE TERRYBERRY: FOREIGNERS ARE SNAPPING UP US HOMES AND STEALING THE AMERICAN DREAM OUT FROM UNDER FAMILIES

"According to recent class action lawsuits filed in federal court, these agents may be required to meet quotas for referring buyers to Zillow Home Loans in order to maintain access to leads," Wind’s study says. "Agents who fail to meet these quotas risk losing their primary source of business."

Zillow was quick to deny the professor’s claims that such quotas exist in a statement to FOX Business, discrediting the study and the allegations that it forces Zillow-affiliated buyers to recommend Zillow Home Loans (ZHL).

"This significantly flawed paper does a lot of gymnastics trying to turn Zillow’s pro-consumer feature into a buy," a Zillow spokesperson told FOX Business. "When a buyer requests a tour or clicks ‘contact agent,’ Zillow connects them with a local buyer’s agent, someone whose job it is to represent the buyer’s interests and drive the best outcomes for them. A listing agent represents the seller."

EXPERT SAYS REAL ESTATE STILL THE SMARTEST INVESTMENT PLAY

Reports and U.S. national data estimate that total home sales in 2025 were approximately 4.74 million units when combining existing and new home sales. 

Zillow's 2025 Consumer Housing Trends Report showed that roughly 68% of homebuyers use Zillow during their search to purchase a home.

Wind alleged that Zillow’s popularity has created an antitrust issue, with the platform attempting to create a closed loop between searching, purchasing and selecting a mortgage provider for payment.

Wind told FOX Business "the situation really requires some type of legal intervention here" or "some regulatory involvement."

Zillow said the claims of a closed loop are false and that it does not steer customers to ZHL. 

"Claims that buyers are steered to Zillow Home Loans or any specific mortgage provider are false," the Zillow spokesperson explained. "We offer choice, not requirements, and buyers are free to work with any lender. Agents are encouraged to help clients evaluate all available financing options.

"We remain confident that our platform delivers transparency, competition and meaningful choice to millions of buyers and sellers."

As for what Wind hopes to see come out of his study, he told FOX Business he believes consumer awareness and education is important for those looking to make their next home purchase. 

"I think the important aspect here is for consumers to try to be more aware and make sure to look for alternative mortgages, not just buy the first one," Wind explained. 

"So, consumer education is really key here. Second, I would hope that Zillow will change their incentive systems and business model, basically, and realize they have an amazing platform."

https://www.foxbusiness.com/real-estate/penn-professor-says-zillow-systematically-deceives-consumers-about-agent-connections

Uber, Rivian ink $1.25B deal to put thousands of robotaxis on US streetsUber plans to purchase 10,000 Rivian R2 robotaxis with the option for 40,000 more as the companies target a 2028 launch for autonomous ride-hailing service.

Rivian and Uber on Thursday announced a partnership worth up to $1.25 billion to accelerate the two companies' plans for autonomous vehicles and deploy up to 50,000 fully autonomous robotaxis in the years ahead.

Under the agreement, Uber will invest up to $1.25 billion in Rivian through 2031, subject to achieving autonomous performance milestones by specific dates. 

The two companies have agreed to an initial $300 million investment following the signing of the deal, subject to regulatory approval.

Uber plans to purchase, either directly or through its fleet partners, 10,000 fully autonomous Rivian R2 robotaxis and the ride-hailing service firm will have the option to purchase up to 40,000 more in 2030. Rivian's autonomous fleet of R2 robotaxis will be available exclusively through the Uber platform.

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The companies are planning to begin the initial deployment of the robotaxis in San Francisco and Miami in 2028, before expanding to more than two dozen cities by 2031.

If all autonomous performance milestones are met, Rivian and Uber will have deployed thousands of unsupervised robotaxis across 25 cities in the U.S., Canada and Europe by the end of 2031.

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"We couldn't be more excited about this partnership with Uber – it will help accelerate our path to level 4 autonomy to create one of the safest and most convenient autonomous platforms in the world," said Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe. 

Scaringe added that Rivian's "growing data flywheel coupled with RAP1, our state of the art in-house inference platform, and our multi-modal perception platform make us incredibly excited for the rapid advancement of Rivian autonomy over the next couple of years."

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Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said that the company is "big believers in Rivian's approach – designing the vehicle, compute platform, and software stacks together while maintaining end-to-end control of scaled manufacturing and supply in the U.S."

"That vertical integration, combined with data from their growing consumer vehicle base and experience managing the complexities of commercial fleets, gives us conviction to set these ambitious but achievable targets," Khosrowshahi added.

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Rivian shares rose 3.8% on Thursday, while Uber stock declined by 1.72% during the day's trading session.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/uber-rivian-ink-deal-put-thousands-robotaxis-us-streets

Kevin O'Leary forecasts global power shift in Strait of Hormuz as Iran conflict rattles oil marketsKevin O'Leary predicted multinational control of the Strait of Hormuz after the Iran conflict ends, comparing it to the Panama Canal policing model on "The Claman Countdown."

"Shark Tank" star Kevin O’Leary predicted which nations will control the Strait of Hormuz once the Middle East conflict subsides as Iran continues its restriction of the vital trade passage.

Joining "The Claman Countdown" Thursday, O’Leary analyzed the market impact of the Middle East conflict and how investors should navigate uncertainty.

"You think about what the world looks like after the conflict is over, and you make bets," he told FOX Business. 

"I'm pretty sure when this is over, what we're going to be looking at is some multinational policing of the Strait of Hormuz, very much like the Panama Canal or the Suez Canal."

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As markets enter a third week of volatility amid Operation Epic Fury, a number of investors are growing cautious as prices surge.

The Iranian-controlled Strait of Hormuz has been closed to all ships affiliated with U.S. and Israeli interests for weeks due to the conflict.

The closure of one of the world’s most vital waterways has sent prices for goods transported through the strait soaring, including fertilizer and crude oil.

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O’Leary said Iran’s neighbors that have been struck by Iranian missiles, like Saudi Arabia, will turn on the nation.

"Iran is raining missiles on their own neighbors," the Canadian businessman said.

"The neighbors of Iran have said, ‘OK, this isn't going to work for us. We can't include you in the circle of friendship in any way.'"

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The "Shark Tank" star predicted Iran’s neighbors will aid in the multinational effort to secure the strait.

"These neighbors are going to help fund, in my view, the stability and policing of the Strait of Hormuz," O’Leary told "The Claman Countdown."

"It's going to be expensive, but I think it's going to be paid for by the countries that have to have these commodities."

He also asserted that domestic policy after the Iran conflict will focus on supply chain security.

O’Leary acknowledged investor concerns amid the Iran conflict, saying markets will eventually stabilize.

"When this is over, I think, as an investor, the world is going to be a much more stable place," he said. 

https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/kevin-oleary-forecasts-global-power-shift-strait-hormuz-iran-conflict-rattles-oil-markets

The $10,000 car loan tax deduction: Here's who qualifies and how to claim itThe One Big Beautiful Bill Act created a temporary car loan interest deduction for American-made vehicles through 2028, which requires final assembly in the U.S. and VIN verification.

A new tax break is available this filing season for taxpayers who have car loans on vehicles that meet certain specifications.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), which was passed through Congress by Republicans using the reconciliation process and signed into law last year by President Donald Trump, included a provision allowing interest on car loans to be deducted under certain circumstances. 

The IRS released guidance on the implementation of the "No Tax on Car Loan Interest" provision of the OBBBA, which applies to loans taken out to purchase new personal vehicles — not business or commercial vehicles — that were made in America after Dec. 31, 2024. Lease payments do not qualify.

Taxpayers whose auto loans qualify for the interest deduction may deduct up to $10,000 per year, and the deduction is available for both taxpayers who itemize their deductions and those who claim the standard deduction on their return.

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The deduction is subject to income requirements and phases out for higher-income taxpayers who have a modified adjusted gross income of over $100,000 for single filers or $200,000 for joint filers.

Like other tax deductions, the auto loan interest deduction reduces the taxpayer's taxable income by the amount of interest payments they claimed up to the $10,000 annual limit, which means the actual tax savings will be smaller than the nominal size of the tax deduction.

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Under the OBBBA, the auto loan interest deduction is only applicable to vehicles that underwent final assembly in the U.S. 

To confirm that a vehicle's final assembly was in the U.S., taxpayers are instructed to check one of the following: the vehicle label at the dealership, the vehicle identification number (VIN) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's VIN Decoder, which can verify the vehicle's final assembly location.

Taxpayers must include the vehicle's VIN on their tax returns for each year they claim the deduction.

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If a qualifying auto loan is later refinanced, the interest paid on the refinanced loan would generally be eligible for the deduction.

The deduction applies retroactively to the 2025 tax year, meaning it may be used for eligible auto loan interest payments incurred after Dec. 31, 2024.

The OBBBA included a number of temporary tax provisions that will sunset after several years to help the bill comply with Congress' reconciliation rules.

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The auto loan interest deduction was one of those temporary provisions, and it's scheduled to remain in effect through the end of 2028, when it will sunset unless Congress acts to extend the policy.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/10000-car-loan-tax-deduction-heres-who-qualifies-how-claim

Kraft Heinz becomes NFL's first official condiment partner with 5-year global dealThe NFL made history with its first-ever condiment partner when Kraft Heinz signed a groundbreaking five-year deal bringing the food brand's beloved products to game day.

For the first time ever, the NFL has a condiment partner.

The Kraft Heinz Company and the NFL announced a five-year global strategic partnership, uniting one of the world’s biggest food portfolios and the most-watched sports league in the United States to drive fan engagement and food experiences.

This partnership not only unlocks premium stadium and game visibility and integrated co-branding marketing, but also limited-edition packaging on Kraft Heinz products and immersive retail activations for the millions of football fans around the world.

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Kraft Heinz will offer many food favorites, including Heinz, Kraft Velvet, Philadelphia, Kraft Mac & Cheese, Primal Kitchen, Classico and A1, among many others, to some of the biggest moments in football over the coming years.

"We couldn’t be more excited to kick off this breakthrough partnership with the NFL, as our portfolio of iconic brands are a regular part of the game day experience that brings people together," Todd Kaplan, chief marketing officer, North America at Kraft Heinz, said in a statement.

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"The new partnership will help us scale, connect and amplify our seat at the table with our fans and customers. From stronger in-store presence and product innovation to deep and meaningful engagement with our consumers and their favorite teams, we look forward to working with the NFL to create unforgettable and delicious game day moments for fans all around the world."

The partnership also helps the NFL accelerate its continued push to touch a broader, international audience. Kraft Heinz will gain access to select overseas games this upcoming season and beyond. 

In doing so, Kraft Heinz will work with the league to set up exclusive fan experiences and game day celebrations with the foods they all love.

"Kraft Heinz is an iconic brand with products that are fixtures at kitchen tables, tailgates and beyond," NFL Senior Vice President of Global Partnerships Tracie Rodburg said. "This partnership, including its focus on global growth and flag football, is a win for the league and our fans."

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The first big NFL event Kraft Heinz will activate its partnership is at the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, the city where Heinz was born.

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https://www.foxbusiness.com/sports/kraft-heinz-becomes-nfls-first-official-condiment-partner-5-year-global-deal