Southwest Airlines forecasts quarterly earnings below estimates on higher fuelThe airline reported that revenue in its first-quarter period rose nearly 13% to $7.25 billion.{}
Major airline axes 20,000 'unprofitable' flights as jet fuel costs soarGerman carrier Lufthansa is cutting roughly 20,000 short-haul flights through October, citing soaring jet fuel prices linked to the Iran war.
Lufthansa is cutting roughly 20,000 short-haul flights this summer, citing a spike in jet fuel prices that has rendered many routes "unprofitable" as the global aviation industry grapples with rising costs.
The German carrier said Tuesday the cuts, which will run through October, are expected to save about 40,000 metric tons of jet fuel. The airline noted that fuel prices have roughly doubled since the outbreak of the Iran war.
"In total, 20,000 short-haul flights will be removed from the schedule through October, equivalent to approximately 40,000 metric tons of jet fuel, the price of which has doubled since the outbreak of the Iran conflict," the company said in a statement. "The schedule adjustments reduce the number of unprofitable short-haul flights across the Lufthansa Group network."
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The move reflects a broader trend, as airlines worldwide adjust operations in response to surging fuel costs.
The energy market has seen increased volatility since the Iran war began and the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz has been severely constrained by the threat of Iranian attacks, impacting the availability of a key input in making jet fuel.
Other carriers are taking similar steps. Air Canada announced Friday it is suspending select U.S.-bound routes as jet fuel prices continue to climb.
AIR CANADA SCRAPS KEY US ROUTES AS FUEL COSTS SURGE AMID IRAN WAR
Delta Air Lines has also trimmed some summer routes, telling USA TODAY the adjustments are part of "normal planning."
At the same time, several major airlines – including JetBlue, United, Delta and Southwest – have raised baggage fees in recent weeks.
"We’re seeing airfare increase across the board, from the full-service airlines to the budget carriers, from domestic flights to long-haul international," Sean Cudahy, senior aviation reporter at The Points Guy, told FOX Business. "And it’s not just fares – almost every major U.S. carrier has hiked checked bag fees, too. This is really just a classic case of companies passing on costs to their customers, and it’s a big cost at that."
SOARING JET FUEL PRICES THREATEN TO DRIVE UP SUMMER TRAVEL COSTS
Jet fuel is typically airlines’ second-largest expense, according to Cudahy.
"Even if the Strait of Hormuz reopened tomorrow, you’d likely see lingering high fares for months to come. And those checked bag fees that just rose? Those almost never come back down once they go up," he added.
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FOX Business reached out to Lufthansa and Delta Air Lines for comment.
FOX Business' Eric Revell and Bonny Chu contributed to this report.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/major-airline-axes-20000-unprofitable-flights-jet-fuel-costs-soarCantaloupes recalled nationwide over salmonella fears — what shoppers need to knowThe FDA upgraded a cantaloupe recall to its highest risk level over potential salmonella contamination affecting thousands of cartons distributed across multiple states.
A Florida produce distributor has recalled thousands of cantaloupes due to a potential risk of salmonella contamination, and now the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning of an increased risk.
The recall was first initiated last month, but the FDA upgraded it to Class I on April 20, meaning consuming the affected cantaloupe could lead to severe health consequences or death.
According to an FDA enforcement report updated earlier this week, Ayco Farms Inc., based in Pompano Beach, Florida, recalled 8,302 cartons of its fruit.
Although the recalled cantaloupes are no longer sold in stores, the FDA’s upgrade underscores a lingering risk. Consumers who purchased the fruit earlier this year may still have it stored in their freezers, where contamination can persist.
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The recalled fruit was sold in cardboard cartons containing between six and 12 melons wrapped in food-safe bags and distributed to retailers across California, Florida, New York and Pennsylvania.
Ayco Farms said in a press release the recall listed in the FDA’s enforcement report is no longer active.
"The listing reflects a previously completed, voluntary recall of fresh whole cantaloupes that were distributed between December 12, 2025, and January 16, 2026, due to ‘potential’ Salmonella contamination," a press release states.
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"The recall was initiated earlier this year as a precautionary measure in coordination with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. On March 24, 2026, Ayco Farms issued formal notifications to its customers, as agreed with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, as part of the agency’s standard recall reporting process."
This recall follows a prior cantaloupe recall in 2024, when Arizona-based Eagle Produce LLC recalled 224 cases of whole cantaloupes sold under the Kandy brand, according to an FDA report at the time.
There have been no reports of illnesses from consuming the affected cantaloupes, but the FDA warns that salmonella can be deadly to certain age groups.
Consumers who purchased the recalled melons are encouraged to dispose of the products immediately.
FOX Business' Andrea Vacchiano contributed to this report.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/cantaloupes-recalled-nationwide-over-salmonella-fears-what-shoppers-need-knowLululemon names former Nike exec Heidi O'Neill as new CEOLululemon announced on Wednesday that it has chosen former Nike executive Heidi O'Neill as its new CEO, effective in September.{}
Trump administration in advanced talks for Spirit Airlines rescue package, sources sayThe Trump administration is preparing to rescue ailing budget carrier Spirit Airlines.{}
LARRY KUDLOW: Will economic starvation bring Iran to their unconditional knees?It may well be that there’s no such thing as an agreement, other than unconditional surrender
"The blockade scares them even more than the bombing — they’ve been bombed for years, but the blockade they hate." That’s President Trump talking to Fox News’ Martha MacCallum in a very telling statement. And it may well be that the factionalized Iranians simply cannot come up with any kind of unified agreement to present American negotiators.
It also may well be that there’s no such thing as an agreement, other than unconditional surrender. All nuclear activity stops. Enriched uranium must be transferred from Iran to America. All proxy and other forms of terrorism must be stopped. The Strait of Hormuz must be completely open. And frankly whatever other American demands are placed on a badly defeated Iran.
In a sense, there is a ceasefire now, but American military combat operations, which are even stronger today than at the beginning of the war, may be resumed at any moment. And perhaps most importantly, the United States Navy’s blockade of Iranian ports continues. That’s the state of play and the state of war right now. No oil, no money. That’s Iran’s dilemma.
America presumably will control the entire Persian Gulf theatre, including the Strait of Hormuz. It’s probably costing Iran something near $450 million a day, annualizing to nearly $160 billion a year, for a budget that’s estimated at only $100 billion annually. Put simply, there’s no money to meet payroll or retirement.
All the thugs, and barbarians, and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the rest of the government, and all the businesses that they have stolen and looted, and all kinds of fanatics who are just not going to get paid.
If we actually took out Kharg Island, that would knock out an additional 1.5 million barrels a day, worth about $140 million at current prices, covering 190,000 personnel, according to a NY Post op-ed by a retired United States Navy captain, Lance B. Gordon. And there may be roughly 200 million barrels a day of Iranian oil floating on the high seas mostly near Communist China, that could be worth about $20 billion. Yet the economic crunch from the blockade is the biggest and most powerful financial weapon; we’ve never tried this before, and it just might work. I’d love to see the United States Treasury seize all the bank accounts of the criminals running Iran, but that’s a separate story.
The point is for the moment, Mr. Trump is content to let the blockade inflict its punishment on Iran for the foreseeable future, perhaps as long as it takes to just bring them to their unconditional knees.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/larry-kudlow-economic-starvation-bring-iran-unconditional-kneesSeattle could lose hundreds of millions in tax revenue as Starbucks expands in TennesseeSeattle could lose up to $750 million in tax revenue as Starbucks invests $100 million and creates 2,000 jobs in Tennessee, highlighting concerns about the city’s business climate.
Seattle could lose hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue as Starbucks expands operations in Tennessee, a local outlet estimates.
Fox 13 Seattle reported Tuesday that the Emerald City "could lose up to $750 million in tax revenue in the coming years as Starbucks expands in Tennessee instead of Washington."
In a press release Tuesday, Starbucks announced it will invest $100 million and bring 2,000 new jobs to Nashville.
"Starbucks has major plans for its newest business location, where it will employ up to 2,000 people over the next several years to serve in a variety of corporate-related operations," the announcement said.
"The Nashville office will directly support continued coffeehouse expansion and rising customer demand, particularly in the southeastern U.S., while working closely with the company’s global headquarters in Seattle."
Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee welcomed the announcement Tuesday, writing in a post on X, "Great to welcome @Starbucks’ continued investment in TN as it establishes its new Southeastern hub in Music City.
"This iconic global company’s $100 million investment — a testament to our strong economy & unmatched workforce — will create 2,000 new jobs for Tennesseans."
Fox 13 Seattle called Lee’s attitude "sharply different from Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson when she encouraged a crowd to boycott the company shortly after she was elected mayor," noting that Wilson’s remarks were given to a crowd during a Starbucks union workers rally in November.
"I am not buying Starbucks, and you should not too," Wilson said.
In a statement to Fox 13 Seattle, Wilson said, "Starbucks is a core part of Seattle’s identity. We’re proud to be home to its first store, its headquarters and so many of the workers who make the company what it is. We’re focused on maintaining a strong partnership with leadership and with employees, so Starbucks continues to succeed in the city where it all began."
The Tax Foundation ranked Washington state sixth overall in the nation for doing business in its 2014 State Business Tax Climate Index.
In 2026, the Tax Foundation ranked the state as 45th overall.
In March, Washington state Democrats passed the "millionaires tax," which Democratic Gov. Bob Ferguson signed March 30.
The "millionaires tax" is the state's first-ever income tax, supported by progressives and socialists and opposed by conservatives. The Wall Street Journal editorial board called it a "con" after its passage that will "inevitably capture the middle class."
It will impose a 9.9% income tax on households earning more than $1 million each year. The tax applies to any money earned after the first $1 million of someone's annual income. It will take effect Jan. 1, 2028, with the first payments due in April 2029, KOMO News reported.
Fox News Digital reached out to Starbucks and Wilson for comment but did not immediately receive responses.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/seattle-could-lose-hundreds-millions-tax-revenue-starbucks-expands-tennesseeConvenience store owner Yesway is stealing customers from fast-food chains, CEO saysYesway made its public market debut on Wednesday, trading on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange under "YSWY."{}
BMW says it has no intention of dropping sedans, even as some rivals cut backThe BMW 7-Series gets one of the most extensive updates any model has received in company history, according to BMW. It will be the first to spearhead{}
Bessent torches Democrat's ‘sanctions relief’ claims, calls $14B Iran/Russia charge a DNC talking pointTreasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Sen. Chris Coons clash over claims that Iran gained $14 billion from temporary U.S. sanctions relief on oil.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent pushed back Wednesday after Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., suggested temporary sanctions relief for Iran has granted the country $14 billion during the war.
During a fiery exchange at Wednesday's Senate Appropriations Committee subcommittee hearing on the 2027 fiscal budget, Coons levied the charge at Bessent, noting that "estimates are" that Iran has gained $14 billion since the U.S. granted the Islamic Republic temporary oil waivers in March.
Citing President Donald Trump's previous criticisms of former President Barack Obama for giving $1.7 billion to Iran, Coons said, "I don't know how you described 14 billion, but you don't have to read ‘The Art of War’ to know that helping your adversaries gain money while you're at war is a terrible idea, and it's shocking to me that the country's currently profiting from the release of sanctions."
Bessent disputed the characterization as a "myth" and "a DNC talking point."
IRAN CEASEFIRE DEADLINE LOOMS: RAND PAUL WEIGHS IN ON PEACE TALK CHAOS
"If anyone would like to show me where that 14 billion comes from," Bessent added.
"I look forward to an exchange of details on that. Mr. Secretary," Coons shot back.
"Can exchange it in a very public forum," Bessent continued.
Coons then asked Bessent point-blank, "Do you disagree that Iran has received significant additional revenue from their sales of oil because of sanctions relief?"
"Couldn't disagree more," Bessent replied.
"OK. But do you disagree that Russia has received significant additional revenue from the sanctions relief?" Coons asked.
Again, Bessent responded, "I couldn't disagree more."
Bessent proceeded to explain why the Treasury Department elected to provide temporary sanctions relief to Iran and Russia.
"Just as you are concerned about gasoline prices for the American consumer and for our Asian allies, as are we," Bessent said.
"Treasury was able to create more than 250 million barrels on the water. And the way to think about this is as they came in today, the oil prices are at $100. If we had not done that sanctions relief, they might have been at $150 because the world became very well supplied.
"So, if Russia was selling their oil at a 20% discount, I can tell you that 100% of 100 is less than 80% of 150. And the American consumer has been better off."
Treasury issued the relief to Iran through temporary 30-day oil waivers in March, then extended them another 30 days on Wednesday.
Bessent, again pushed by Coons, added that many U.S. allies in the Gulf and in Asia have requested foreign exchange swap lines.
"Swap lines, whether it's from the Federal Reserve or the Treasury, are to maintain order and the dollar funding markets and to prevent the sale of U.S. assets in a disorderly way. So, the swap line would both benefit the UAE [United Arab Emirates] and the U.S. And, as I said, numerous other countries, including some of our Asian allies, have also requested them," he said.
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Fox News Digital contacted the Treasury Department and Coons' office for further comment but did not immediately receive a response.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/bessent-torches-democrats-sanctions-relief-claims-14b-iran-russia-charge-dnc-talking-pointKevin O’Leary reveals the only two cryptocurrencies he says are worth owningKevin O'Leary says bitcoin and Ethereum are the only cryptos worth owning, as institutional money reshapes the digital asset market landscape.
Kevin O’Leary is narrowing his crypto strategy after years of experimenting across the digital asset space, arguing that most tokens have failed to justify their place in portfolios as institutional money reshapes the market.
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O’Leary Ventures Chairman Kevin O’Leary joined FOX Business’ Stuart Varney on "Varney & Co." to discuss why he has consolidated his holdings into what he sees as the two dominant cryptocurrencies driving returns and market activity.
O’Leary said his earlier approach included exposure to dozens of smaller tokens, but a shift in regulatory expectations and institutional analysis last year forced a reassessment. As major players conducted deeper research, he argued, the conclusion became clear: most alternative coins lacked staying power.
"I used to be one of the components… Supporting 27 different positions… All you need to own is bitcoin and Ethereum, and you own 97% of the volatility of all the other pooh-pooh coins," O’Leary said.
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He added that thousands of smaller cryptocurrencies effectively disappeared following last October’s downturn, reinforcing his decision to exit those positions.
"What's happened to the pooh-poohs is they collapsed last October… Thousands of them never came back… At the end, why don't you just own those two?" he said.
Despite ongoing volatility, O’Leary pointed to growing adoption of digital payment systems and stablecoins in global transactions as a key driver behind his continued conviction in the space.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/kevin-oleary-reveals-only-two-cryptocurrencies-he-says-worth-owningRFK Jr. says he would support a potential ban on junk food TV adsA ban on TV junk food ads would likely draw fierce backlash from major food manufacturers.{}
Rivian hits production milestone for R2 EV ahead of customer deliveriesRivian Automotive on Wednesday said it has started production of its new R2 all-electric vehicle for customers at its plant in Normal, Illinois.{}
Housing crisis hits all ages as homeownership declines nationwideAmerican homebuyers are starting to feel "genuinely boxed in" by their living situations, as new data shows the real estate market squeezing out those in their 40s and 50s.
A common narrative suggests that the housing crisis is a young person’s problem, with Gen Z and millennials bearing the brunt of high prices.
However, new data from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and the American Enterprise Institute Housing Center reveals a much more disturbing reality: the collapse of homeownership is happening at every age level.
"The profile has shifted from the young couple starting a life to the established professional who has been squeezed out of the market for a decade," Douglas Elliman's Jaclyn Bild told Fox News Digital on Wednesday. "Today’s first-time buyer is juggling way more than someone buying their first home 20 years ago. They’re coming in with kids, fully formed careers, sometimes aging parents, and zero interest in a temporary starter home. They want something that supports the life they already have. The challenge is that pricing hasn’t adjusted to reality."
"Many first-time buyers are coming in later, with stronger incomes and more established careers, but they are also navigating a much higher cost basis. In practice, the biggest hurdle is the total cost of ownership. Buyers are underwriting price, of course, but they also heavily consider monthly payments, taxes, and long-term carrying costs," Douglas Elliman's Katzen Team founder Frances Katzen also told Digital. "That is why the buyer profile has evolved to reflect a more deliberate, financially prepared buyer who approaches the process with a long-term mindset."
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The core issue isn’t just high mortgage rates, which are currently near historical norms, but a massive divergence between what Americans take home and what homes actually cost. Data from the American Enterprise Institute Housing Center, cited by Fortune, shows that in 2003, the median home price was 4.3 times household income. In 2017, it was 5.1 times, but today it has risen to nearly 6 times.
Additionally, between 2000 and 2022, homeownership rates dropped between 8% and 10% across every age cohort. For the "first-timer" group earning between $50,000 and $75,000 annually, only 25% owned homes in 2022, compared to 70% to 80% of households making $175,000 and up.
"Buyers are making incredibly conscious trade-offs. Some are choosing to stay in place longer and maximize their current space rather than move into a higher price point. Others are adjusting expectations around size, location or condition to be able to remain within budget. There's also a timing component. Some buyers are waiting for more clarity, while others are moving forward, hoping to prioritize long-term stability. The broader dynamic is that moving up now requires a much more significant financial step, so every decision is more intentional and more strategic," Katzen explained.
"People feel genuinely boxed in, they are navigating by simply not moving because the math doesn't work," Bild noted. "We are seeing the starter home turn into the forever home by necessity… Many are staying put and building new homes on the lot they already own, others are building an addition for extra space or converting a garage into another bedroom to make it work — that puts additional pressure on supply. We are also seeing a record number of buyers getting family support to bridge the financial gap. We are even seeing some families rethinking having more kids because they don’t have the space."
Co-director of the American Enterprise Institute Housing Center Ed Pinto warned Fortune that the current trajectory is creating a permanent class of renters among those who are not already affluent.
"When purchasing power declines, fewer people buy homes at 28 — but also fewer purchase at 38 or 48. The result is a broad-based drop in homeownership. The less-rich are getting squeezed out, and that trend is uniform across all age groups," Pinto said.
"As the pool of first-time buyers gets smaller across the board, the marginal families get excluded across the board," he continued. "As long as prices are flat and incomes are rising 3% a year, affordability is improving. But the gap is still so large that if nothing else changes, the lower-and middle-income families stuck on the sidelines could get locked out for years to come."
The AEI research also identified a severe supply shortage as part of the housing affordability culprit, noting that the "bottleneck" isn't a lack of interest in buying, but a lack of permitted land for entry-level housing.
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Katzen agreed that limited supply significantly adds to America's housing strain.
"One of the most consistent challenges is supply, particularly in the types of homes buyers are looking for at the entry and move-up levels. Limited inventory is reducing optionality and keeps pricing elevated. In many cases, the issue is not inherently demand, but rather, its availability," she said. "When the right product comes to market, it tends to move quickly because there are multiple buyers looking for the same type of home. From a broader perspective, increasing supply meaningfully would have the greatest impact on improving market accessibility."
https://www.foxbusiness.com/real-estate/housing-crisis-hits-all-ages-homeownership-declines-nationwideGenerac recalls portable generators sold at Costco over fire riskGenerac recalls GP9200E generators sold at Costco due to a fuel leak defect that could pose a fire hazard. Customers may qualify for repair or refund.
Generac Power Systems is recalling certain portable generators sold at Costco after identifying a defect that could cause gasoline to leak, posing a potential fire and burn hazard, according to a notice sent to customers.
The recall affects Generac GP9200E gas generators purchased between May 2025 and February 2026, Generac Power Systems said to Costco members. The affected serial numbers range from 3016786070 to 3016788388.
The issue stems from the generator’s carburetor, which may leak fuel when the unit is first filled with gasoline, creating a risk of fire or explosion.
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Customers who have not yet filled the generator with fuel, or who experience any gasoline leakage, are being urged to stop using the product immediately. However, the notice states that generators that have already been used without any fuel leakage may continue to be operated.
MORE THAN 30K WIRELESS POWER BANKS RECALLED AFTER REPORTS OF FIRE, EXPLOSIONS
The recall applies only to units within the specified serial number range, and customers are advised to check their generator to determine whether it is included.
Owners of affected generators can arrange for a free repair through an authorized dealer or return the product to Costco for a full refund, according to the notice.
Generac is one of the largest U.S. manufacturers of backup power equipment, with its products commonly used during outages caused by severe weather and grid disruptions.
OVER 1.1M POWER BANKS RECALLED AFTER REPORTS OF FIRES, EXPLOSIONS
"The safety and safe use of our products is always our top priority," told FOX Business in a statement. "We encourage consumers to stop using affected units and determine eligibility for a free repair. Consumers with generators that have previously been filled with enough gasoline to move the gauge off "E," or have been used without any gasoline leakage, can continue use."
Generac estimates that about 51,500 of the 149,400 affected generators were sold to consumers.
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FOX Business has reached out to Costco for further comment.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/generac-recalls-portable-generators-sold-costco-over-fire-riskUnited Airlines slashes 2026 forecast as fuel costs surge, but demand remains strongThe carrier's first-quarter earnings topped Wall Street's expectations.{}
Spirit Airlines could liquidate as early as this week, sources sayThe carrier is facing the added challenge of a spike in the price of fuel. Fuel is airlines' biggest expense after labor.{}
Feminist Governance and Democratic Change in Armenia
BENGALURU, India, April 23 (IPS) - The period after Armenia’s 2018 “Velvet Revolution” maintains a fragile status which presents both substantial democratic and feminist achievements and rising internal and external international pressures.
Read the full story, “Feminist Governance and Democratic Change in Armenia”, on globalissues.org →
https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/04/23/42848 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/04/Gulnara-Shahinian_-100x100.jpg"}The Impact of the Middle East Crisis on Women and Girls
CAIRO, Egypt, April 23 (IPS) - Six weeks into the 2026 Middle East military escalation, UNFPA Arab States Regional Office warns that its impact on 161 million women and girls living in conflict-affected areas across the region remain largely invisible in conflict analysis, humanitarian response, and funding priorities.
Read the full story, “The Impact of the Middle East Crisis on Women and Girls”, on globalissues.org →
https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/04/23/42847 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/04/UNFPA-Lebanon_45-100x100.jpg"}Best Buy CEO Corie Barry to step downBest Buy appoints veteran Jason Bonfig as CEO, replacing Corie Barry during a period of retail transformation and evolving consumer demand.
Best Buy announced on Wednesday that it is promoting a longtime executive to chief executive as the consumer electronics retailer navigates shifting demand and intensifying competition across the retail sector.
The company said that Jason Bonfig — currently its chief customer, product and fulfillment officer — will become CEO on Oct. 31, succeeding Corie Barry, who plans to step down after seven years in the role. Bonfig will become just the sixth CEO in Best Buy’s roughly 60-year history.
The leadership transition comes as Best Buy and its peers face pressure from e-commerce competitors, changing consumer spending patterns and the need to expand beyond traditional hardware sales into higher-margin businesses.
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Bonfig, a 25-year company veteran, has overseen key areas including merchandising, e-commerce, marketing and supply chain – functions central to the retailer’s performance.
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He has also helped drive initiatives aimed at boosting profitability, including the expansion of Best Buy Ads, the company’s retail media network, and the launch of an online marketplace in the U.S., both viewed as core to its long-term growth strategy.
"As a Board, we are confident that Jason is the right leader to accelerate the business, with urgency and innovative ideas, and create meaningful growth for the company and its shareholders," Best Buy board Chair David Kenny said in a statement.
NETFLIX CO-FOUNDER REED HASTINGS TO STEP DOWN, DEPARTURE IS 'SPOOKING INVESTORS'
Barry, who became the company’s first female CEO in 2019, led Best Buy through pandemic-era demand surges, supply chain challenges and shifting consumer behavior. During her tenure, the company expanded its focus on services, subscriptions and omnichannel retail.
Barry will remain in an advisory role for six months following the transition, signaling a structured leadership handoff.
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Best Buy reported nearly $41.7 billion in revenue in fiscal 2026 and operates more than 1,000 stores across North America.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/retail/best-buy-ceo-corie-barry-step-downWhat are active ETFs and how are they reshaping how Americans invest?Actively managed ETFs hit a $1 trillion milestone in the U.S. as investors look for funds that aim to outperform passive ETFs tracking market indexes.
Investors are flocking to actively managed exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and recently pushed the amount of assets in the investment class above a notable milestone.
Actively managed ETFs surpassed $1 trillion in assets under management in the U.S., as investors look to find investment options that may outperform passive ETFs that track an index.
"Active ETFs are exploding because investors want the best of both worlds, Wall Street strategy with Main Street pricing," Ted Jenkin, managing partner for Exit Wealth Advisors, told FOX Business. "You're getting flexibility to navigate volatile markets, potential tax efficiency, and in many cases a real shot at outperforming the index instead of just riding a mutual fund."
The ETF market has grown across both actively and passively managed ETFs, but the two types have important distinctions.
COULD S&P 500 ETFS ALONE FUND YOUR ENTIRE RETIREMENT?
While passively managed ETFs are designed to track a benchmark such as the S&P 500, actively managed ETFs aim to outperform a given benchmark by having the portfolio manager adjust the investments within the ETF based on research or strategies they're utilizing.
"Both approaches serve an important role for retail investors – the difference comes down to intent," Charles La Rosa, vice president and head of ETFs at Gabelli Funds, told FOX Business.
"Active ETFs seek to provide thoughtful security selection, risk management and potentially differentiated outcomes, particularly during periods of volatility or in less efficient areas of the market," La Rosa said.
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Fidelity Investments said that there are two types of actively managed ETFs that differ in how they disclose their holdings.
Traditional actively managed ETFs, as well as passive ETFs, disclose their holdings on a daily basis, whereas semi-transparent active ETFs disclose their holdings on a quarterly basis.
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Research from the Securities and Exchange Commission's (SEC) Division of Economic and Risk Analysis noted that last year, as active ETFs surpassed the $900 billion level, passive ETFs had over $8 trillion in total net assets.
The SEC's research also notes that active ETFs had higher expense ratios than their passive peers, with asset-weighted passive ETF having operating expenses at 0.12% of net assets versus 0.49% for active ETFs as of 2024.
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Equal weighted ETFs in both categories had higher expenses, with passive ETFs at 0.45% and active ETFs at 0.70%.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/what-active-etfs-how-reshaping-how-americans-investBest Buy names Jason Bonfig as new CEO, replacing Corie Barry in late OctoberThe leadership change comes as the company tries to rev up sales and capitalize on artificial intelligence-fueled innovation of laptops and mobile phones.{}
Boeing CEO says 'all systems are go' to increase 737 production as company narrows lossBoeing expects certification of new Max 7 and 10 models later this year, with deliveries starting in 2027.{}
From Resolution to Reality: Delivering Water and Sanitation for “The Africa We Want”
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia, April 22 (IPS) - When Africa’s Heads of State and Government gathered in Addis Ababa on 14 February 2026 for the African Union’s 39th Ordinary Session, they did more than adopt another resolution. They made a choice: to place at the centre of the agenda the most fundamental, life-sustaining and strategic resource our continent possesses: water.
https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/04/22/42837 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/04/Clean-drinking-water_-100x100.jpg"}The Ballot Box Illusion: How Authoritarians Repackaged the African Ballot
ABUJA, Nigeria / NAIROBI, Kenya, April 22 (IPS) - In many countries across Africa, people have recently lined up to vote. But in country after country, there has been no real choice on offer. As CIVICUS’s 2026 State of Civil Society Report documents, what has frequently been on display is a procedural ceremony of democracy, orderly enough to satisfy observers, but hollow enough to leave those who hold the reins of power untroubled. Laws and structures that were supposed to promote democratic decisions have been manipulated into compliance checks, ticking all procedural requirements while lacking democratic substance. In too many cases, the ballot box has become a public relations exercise.
https://www.globalissues.org/news/2026/04/22/42835 {"url":"https://static.globalissues.org/ips/2026/04/Zohra-Bensemra_-100x100.jpg"}Beer giant pours $600M into US production in major bet on American growthAnheuser-Busch announces a $600 million U.S. investment to boost domestic production, expand veteran hiring and launch 15 new training centers.
Anheuser-Busch is increasing its U.S. investment to $600 million over two years, expanding brewery capacity, worker training and veteran hiring as the beer giant leans further into domestic manufacturing, Fox News Digital learned.
"Anheuser‑Busch is doubling down on investing in our U.S. operations because we see strong, long-term growth opportunities right here at home," Anheuser-Busch CEO Brendan Whitworth exclusively told Fox News Digital. "When we invest in our U.S. operations and expand training for our people and opportunities for our veterans, we strengthen communities and drive real economic prosperity."
"This $600 million investment is about advancing American manufacturing, strengthening our supply chain, and creating lasting careers and a brighter future for U.S. workers," Whitworth added.
HEINEKEN TO CUT UP TO 6,000 JOBS GLOBALLY, LOWERS PROFIT GROWTH FORECAST AMID INDUSTRY STRUGGLES
The company said the expansion will increase manufacturing capacity and invest in workforce development through 15 new training centers and veteran programs. The move aligns with broader industry and government efforts to boost domestic production and rebuild the manufacturing workforce, echoing calls from the Trump administration.
Anheuser-Busch will spend the $600 million over two years, from 2025 through 2026, focusing on brewery upgrades, technology and production capacity. The Wednesday announcement expands upon a $300 million investment announced in 2025.
The company said it makes 99% of the beer it sells in the U.S. domestically, including Michelob ULTRA, Busch Light, Budweiser and Bud Light.
HOW REAL AMERICAN BEER AIMS TO FULFILL LATE FOUNDER HULK HOGAN’S GOAL OF TOPPLING BUD LIGHT, RIVALS
The initiative aims to upskill 90% of its manufacturing workforce over five years, training employees in digital systems, mechanical and electrical skills, and management systems.
"By strengthening our manufacturing operations, we are creating sustainable careers – not just jobs – and investing in the people who are vital to our success," said Whitworth in a press release viewed by Fox News Digital.
"We are proud to continue building the next generation of manufacturing leaders through our new technical training centers while also providing new opportunities in the workforce for our nation’s veterans," he added.
AMERICA FIRST POLICIES ELECTRIFYING US-MADE BREWS AND BRINGING BEER BOOM TO RED STATE
Anheuser-Busch is expanding veteran partnerships to help service members transition into the workforce. A new "SmartResume" platform will translate military skills and experience for employers.
The announcement follows the Trump administration's continued push of "America First" policies creating indirect incentives for companies and reshaping trade policy for domestic production.
"This is yet another example of the Trump effect. Thanks to President Trump’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding American industry, companies are investing in the United States, expanding manufacturing, creating good-paying jobs, and driving a new era of prosperity for the American people," White House spokesperson Liz Huston told Fox News Digital.
In March, 15,000 new jobs were added in the manufacturing sector, according to the White House.
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Trump has also signed various executive orders and actions to revitalize American manufacturing, recently signing a proclamation to strengthen tariffs imposed on imported steel, aluminum and copper imports to help Americans compete and companies to build factories in the U.S..
https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/beer-giant-pours-600m-us-production-major-bet-american-growthTrump Media taps interim CEO as Devin Nunes steps asideTrump Media taps Kevin McGurn as interim CEO following Devin Nunes’ exit, as the company faces significant losses and recent board turnover.
Trump Media & Technology Group on Tuesday named an interim chief executive as Devin Nunes stepped aside, marking a leadership transition at the parent of Truth Social following recent board departures and steep financial losses in 2025.
The company appointed longtime advisor Kevin McGurn as interim CEO effective immediately, succeeding Nunes, who has led the company since 2022. McGurn brings more than two decades of experience across media, telecommunications and advertising technology, according to the company.
"It is an honor to step into the role of Interim Chief Executive Officer at this important moment for Trump Media & Technology Group," McGurn told FOX Business. "Having worked closely with the team over the past several months, I have developed a strong appreciation for the Company’s mission, its platforms, and its significant growth opportunities."
The leadership shift comes as Trump Media continues to report significant losses relative to its revenue. The company posted a net loss of more than $712 million in 2025 – on roughly $3.7 million in revenue, according to its annual filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
GOP SENATOR WILL BLOCK WARSH NOMINATION UNTIL ‘BOGUS’ POWELL PROBE ENDS
Financial disclosures show expenses far outpaced revenue, including more than $576 million in operating costs. A substantial portion of the losses was tied to write-downs and losses related to digital assets, highlighting the company’s exposure to volatile investment areas.
"I want to thank Devin Nunes for his dedicated service to the Company over the past four years, and congratulate Kevin McGurn on his appointment as Interim CEO," Donald Trump Jr., a board member, said in a statement.
Nunes said the transition comes as the company enters a new phase, adding it was "an appropriate time" for McGurn to take over leadership while he shifts focus to other roles, including serving as chairman of the president’s Intelligence Advisory Board.
"I look forward to building on the strong foundation established by the team, ensuring a smooth leadership transition, executing on our strategic priorities, and positioning our media assets for their next phase of growth," McGurn also told FOX Business. "I am committed to delivering long-term value for shareholders while continuing to strengthen and scale the Truth Social and Truth+ platforms."
The leadership change follows a series of recent board departures disclosed in regulatory filings. Former U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer resigned from the board in March, and director Eric Swider stepped down earlier this month. The company said in both cases the exits were not due to any dispute with management.
TRUMP MEDIA BACKS 5 AMERICA-FOCUSED ETFS
Trump Media, which operates the Truth Social platform along with its streaming service Truth+ and fintech brand Truth.Fi, has sought to expand beyond social media into areas including financial services and digital assets as it looks to grow its business.
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The company has framed the leadership transition as part of its next phase, with McGurn expected to guide operations and strategic initiatives moving forward.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/fox-news-politics/trump-media-taps-interim-ceo-devin-nunes-steps-asideBest Buy names Jason Bonfig as new CEO, replacing Corie Barry in late OctoberThe leadership change comes as the company tries to rev up sales and capitalize on artificial intelligence-fueled innovation of laptops and mobile phones.{}
Florida launches criminal probe into whether chatbot aided suspect in deadly campus shootingFlorida's AG launched a criminal investigation into OpenAI, alleging ChatGPT advised the suspect in the deadly Florida State University mass shooting.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier has launched a criminal investigation into OpenAI over whether its ChatGPT artificial intelligence chatbot could bear legal responsibility in last year’s deadly mass shooting at Florida State University.
The probe follows a review of chat logs between the suspect, Phoenix Ikner, and ChatGPT after a April 17, 2025, attack that left two people dead and six others injured.
Uthmeier alleged the chatbot advised the gunman on what weapons and ammunition to use, as well as when and where to carry out the attack to encounter more people.
"If this were a person on the other end of the screen, we would be charging them with murder," Uthmeier said. "Just because this is a chatbot, an AI, does not mean that there is not criminal culpability. So, we’re going to look at who knew what, designed what or should have done more."
WAR DEPARTMENT TO PARTNER WITH OPENAI TO INTEGRATE CHATGPT INTO GENAI.MIL
State officials are examining whether OpenAI could be held liable under Florida law, which allows those who aid, abet or counsel a crime to be charged as principals.
The Office of Statewide Prosecution has subpoenaed OpenAI for internal policies, training materials and records related to how the company handles threats of violence and cooperates with law enforcement, according to the announcement.
OpenAI pushed back on the claims, saying its technology did not promote or enable the attack.
"Last year’s mass shooting at Florida State University was a tragedy, but ChatGPT is not responsible for this terrible crime," OpenAI spokesperson Kate Waters said in a statement to Fox News. "After learning of the incident, we identified a ChatGPT account believed to be associated with the suspect and proactively shared this information with law enforcement."
She said OpenAI continues to cooperate with authorities and is working to strengthen ChatGPT’s safeguards to detect "harmful intent, limit misuse and respond appropriately when safety risks arise."
"In this case, ChatGPT provided factual responses to questions with information that could be found broadly across public sources on the internet, and it did not encourage or promote illegal or harmful activity," Waters said. "ChatGPT is a general-purpose tool used by hundreds of millions of people every day for legitimate purposes."
GOOGLE CEO CALLS FOR NATIONAL AI REGULATION TO COMPETE WITH CHINA MORE EFFECTIVELY
Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commissioner Mark Glass said the case highlights broader concerns about artificial intelligence.
"Artificial intelligence is built by man. Man is fallible. Man makes mistakes," Glass said.
Authorities have previously said Ikner, 20, opened fire on campus using weapons stolen from his parents’ home before being shot and wounded by responding officers.
He was later indicted on two counts of first-degree murder and seven counts of attempted first-degree murder with a firearm.
The case is now being cited by Florida officials as part of a broader push to crack down on crimes involving artificial intelligence, including legislation signed earlier this year increasing penalties for AI-generated child sexual abuse material.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/florida-launches-criminal-probe-whether-chatbot-aided-suspect-deadly-campus-shootingA beginner-friendly ETF portfolio that requires almost no maintenance and delivers long-term resultsFor a portfolio to count as being both good and easy, it needs to be anchored with a hearty helping of stock market-tracking index funds.
Most people who delay investing aren't doing so because they think putting their money into the markets is a bad idea. They're stuck in front of a confusing smorgasbord of options, afraid to pile the wrong things on their plate and at least a little afraid of looking like they don't know what they're doing (especially if it's true). Thus, analysis paralysis is often the default.
Have no fear. There's a quick and simple way to build a sensible portfolio by using a small handful of exchange-traded funds (ETFs). So, without further ado, let's get some clarity over what's going to go into this portfolio and how much of an allocation each ETF should get.
For a portfolio to count as being both good and easy, it needs to be anchored with a hearty helping of market-tracking index funds. That way, you'll get exposure to growth and quite a lot of diversification, which will help to insulate you from all sorts of risks.
COULD S&P 500 ETFS ALONE FUND YOUR ENTIRE RETIREMENT?
Therefore, 65% of the portfolio could be allocated to the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF, and 20% could be allocated to the iShares Core MSCI Total International Stock ETF.
The Vanguard ETF has an expense ratio of just 0.03% annually and tracks the performance of the biggest public companies listed in the U.S., whereas the iShares ETF has an annual expense ratio of 0.07% and tracks the performance of the biggest international companies, explicitly not including those in the U.S.
The point of having both of these in the portfolio is that you'll be diversified across business sectors and across geographies, which reduces the chance that problems in the U.S. or any other specific country will drag down your portfolio's performance as a whole.
Those two ETFs focus on stocks. A well-rounded and sufficiently diversified portfolio also needs some exposure to bonds to ensure that it has a fairly safe source of yield when times get tough, and to cryptocurrency, as it isn't represented well in any of the other ETFs.
GOLDMAN SACHS COMPLETES INNOVATOR CAPITAL ACQUISITION, LIFTING ETF ASSETS TO $90B
Thus, you could also allocate 10% of the portfolio to the Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF and 5% to the iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF.
In a nutshell, BND is crash insurance. It holds more than 17,000 U.S. investment-grade bonds for an annual expense ratio of just 0.03%. Its trailing-12-month yield is only 3.9%, but it isn't intended to be a major growth driver for your portfolio anyway.
The Bitcoin Trust position provides exposure to spot bitcoin as the name implies. The point of owning it is that it'll help you to benefit from the cryptocurrency's status as a scarce store of value, and it might help to guard your portfolio against inflation too. It'll cost you a bit more than the other ETFs, with an expense ratio of 0.25%, but the potential growth that it offers is worth the price.
This portfolio can hum along for years without any intervention from you. But there is one thing you can do to slightly boost its performance.
VANGUARD FUND STRIPS OUT CHINA IN EMERGING MARKETS INVESTMENT PLAY
Once a year, open your brokerage or retirement account and compare each fund's current weighting to its allocation target described above.
If any position has drifted by more than five percentage points from its target allocation, it's wise to sell a little of the winner and buy a little of the laggard. You're selling high and buying low, and that's the entire (mostly voluntary) maintenance obligation. Inside a tax-advantaged account like a Roth IRA or a 401(k), rebalancing triggers no tax consequences, and many brokerages can even automate the process for target-weight portfolios if that's something that interests you.
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Start with whatever amount of capital you have on hand, add to your holdings in the proper proportions when you can, rebalance the portfolio once a year and let time in the market do the rest of the work. The longer you're willing to let this money grow, the better off you're likely to be.
Alex Carchidi has positions in Bitcoin and iShares Bitcoin Trust. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Bitcoin, Vanguard S&P 500 ETF, Vanguard Total Bond Market ETF, and iShares Bitcoin Trust. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/a-beginner-friendly-etf-portfolio-that-requires-almost-no-maintenance-and-delivers-long-term-resultsLARRY KUDLOW: No sock puppet — Kevin Warsh will bring a gust of fresh air to the Federal ReserveTrump’s nominee outlines his long-held views that the central bank’s remit has grown too far and too wide and must be curbed
President Trump’s Fed nominee Kevin Warsh appeared before the Senate Banking Committee today and passed with flying colors. It’s the best way I can put it. It may well be a new era for the Federal Reserve as Mr. Warsh outlined his long-held views that the central bank’s remit has grown too far and too wide and must be curbed.
That its balance sheet of assets and liabilities should similarly be downsized, that it was never meant to be an overbearing central planning economic agency. And that monetary policy independence is essential. Yet it must be earned. In his testimony, Mr. Warsh said "low inflation is the Fed’s plot armor, its vital protection against slings and arrows. So, when inflation surges — as it has done in recent years — grievous harm is done to our citizens, especially to the least well-off."
And finally, the Fed must stay in its lane. No politics. No diversity, equity, and inclusion, no climate change, no lobbying state legislatures, et cetera. Mr. Warsh challenged a number of hidebound Fed customs, such as forward guidance and constant chattering from reserve bank presidents. He indicated it’s time to look for new economic models.
Mr. Warsh is an optimistic growth guy who doesn’t believe low unemployment means higher inflation, but does believe in the growth power of tax cuts and deregulation. He also suggested that Federal Open Market Committee meetings could resemble a "family fight," saying "I tend to favor messier meetings than some where people don’t show up with rehearsed scripts." He added that "we can have a good family fight if the central bank has that good family fight, I think that they’re going to make better decisions. And if they happen to make mistakes, they’ll correct them sooner." He even challenged inflation indicators suggesting that median inflation rates or trimmed mean inflation rates, where you chop off the high and low outliers, might be better than the straight up consumer price index or personal consumption expenditures deflator.
At one point he mused out loud that it’s hard to make monetary policy without ever mentioning money. Asked about his forecast he suggested the broad contours of the economy are improving but we can do better, peak inflation has come down, but it can come lower, and interest rates are a better tool than the Central Bank balance sheet.
Mr. Warsh also defended his long-run view that rapid technology advances like AI are likely to enhance productivity, reduce business costs, inflation, and ultimately bring down interest rates.
Yet he made no formal interest rate predictions. And when insulted by the far-left Democratic senator, Elizabeth Warren, that he was somehow going to be Mr. Trump’s "sock puppet," whatever that means, he made it clear that in his interview with the president, Mr. Trump never once asked him to commit to a specific interest rate: "the president never once asked me to commit to any particular interest rate decision period, and nor would I ever agree to do so if he had. But he never did."
I’m not surprised. Ms. Warren was her usual pain in the neck, holding up the hearing with various gibberish about Mr. Warsh meeting ethics agreements and divesting his own portfolio, of course the Wall Street Journal’s editorial was right: the hearing was about the Fed’s balance sheet, not Mr. Warsh’s. Even Senator Thom Tillis stood up for Mr. Warsh and said he was in complete compliance with ethics arrangements and asset sales. As I have said, Mr. Warsh passed with flying colors. And he’ll bring a much-needed gust of fresh air to the central bank. Now let’s get him over the finish line as fast as possible.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/larry-kudlow-no-sock-puppet-kevin-warsh-bring-gust-fresh-air-federal-reservePapa John's box message telling customers to tip delivery drivers sparks fierce tipping culture debate onlinePapa John's customers were outraged over a box message about tipping delivery drivers as Americans increasingly say tipping culture is out of control.
A message encouraging Papa John's customers to tip their delivery drivers has enraged social media users, as frustration over America's expanding "tipping culture" continues to ferment.
TikTok user @sydneeee___ posted a video last week showing a box from the pizza chain that stated: "DELIVERY FEE IS NOT A TIP. Please reward your driver for outstanding service."
The message left some fuming, sparking a debate over the purpose of delivery fees and whether corporations should be responsible for paying their workers livable wages.
Users labeled the message "tone-deaf," arguing the company is shifting the financial responsibility of employee compensation to the consumer.
DOMINO'S PIZZA DEBUTS STUFFED CRUST IN EFFORT TO BOOST SALES
"Companies telling us to tip their workers knowing they won’t pay them is crazy lol," one user commented.
Another questioned the logic of the charge, asking, "So wtf are we paying a delivery fee for?"
A third user noted, "If a delivery fee is not a tip... then why is there a delivery fee being paid to the business? It should be paid to the driver."
One commenter pointed out the executive pay scale, writing, "Papa Johns CEO makes $8.44M annually btw."
Rather than serving as a lighthearted reminder to reward good service, some users argued the message creates unnecessary friction between the customer and the delivery person.
KFC BRINGS BACK A TASTE OF NOSTALGIA WITH FAN-FAVORITE ITEM
This backlash comes as more Americans express exhaustion with tipping practices creeping into industries that traditionally never requested them. Customers now frequently face "tip screens" for mundane tasks or at self-service kiosks, leading to awkward social scenarios.
A WalletHub survey released in March found that nearly nine in 10 Americans believe the country's tipping culture is "out of control." Similarly, a recent Popmenu report found that 77% of consumers agree the practice has gone too far, with two-thirds of respondents admitting they only tip out of guilt.
FOX Business has reached out to Papa John's for comment.
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The viral video arrives at a difficult time for the pizza giant, which recently announced plans to close 300 underperforming restaurants across the U.S.
Papa John's Chief Financial Officer Ravi Thanawala described these "doomed" locations as being primarily franchise-owned, more than a decade old and generating less than $600,000 in annual unit volume (AUV).
https://www.foxbusiness.com/lifestyle/papa-johns-box-message-telling-customers-tip-delivery-drivers-sparks-fierce-tipping-culture-debate-onlineStates secure $23M from Roblox, mandate stricter protections for young users: 'The right thing to do'Gaming platform Roblox will pay over $23 million and implement sweeping safety changes after investigations into child safety failures by two states.
Roblox has agreed to sweeping platform overhauls and more than $23 million in combined settlements with the states of Alabama and West Virginia following investigations into the gaming platform's child safety failures.
The settlements, both announced by the states' attorneys general on Tuesday, mandate strict new safeguards designed to protect minors from online predators and inappropriate content.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, who secured a $12.2 million settlement that ensures 100% of the funds will stay in the state, told FOX Business the negotiations had a twofold purpose of implementing structural changes to the platform to increase child safety and parental controls and securing monetary resources to enhance School Resource Officer (SRO) programs throughout Alabama.
"If you're a platform online that is directing your efforts toward children as consumers, then that platform has a responsibility to ensure the safety of those young people," Marshall said. "Whether they believe they were legally responsible or not, it's simply the right thing to do."
ROBLOX CEO SAYS CHILD SAFETY IS INDUSTRY-WIDE ISSUE, PLANS TOOLS TO KEEP BAD ACTORS OFF PLATFORM
He added that the focus was less about long-term harm and more about looking into the future.
"The ability to obtain significant changes within the platform as a result of these settlement agreements not only enhances the safety of young people using the platform, but I think (it) creates a framework for similarly situated companies," Marshall said.
"I think it's a template for other states around the country to do something similar."
ROBLOX CEO INSISTS PLATFORM IS SAFE FOR CHILDREN DESPITE LAWSUITS OVER ONLINE PREDATORS
The agreement also grants parents expanded controls, allowing them to restrict "Robux" in-game currency transfers from adults who are not trusted connections.
West Virginia Attorney General JB McCuskey similarly announced an $11.08 million settlement with the gaming giant on Tuesday, noting that his state's investigation found Roblox's previous safety designs exposed young users to grooming, sexual predators and violent content.
McCuskey said West Virginia is heavily reinvesting its settlement payout into dedicated state safety efforts, including $2.4 million over six years to hire a West Virginia-based internet safety specialist to coordinate with local law enforcement, according to a news release.
The state will also spend $1.5 million on a three-year public safety campaign and $500,000 on safety education workshops for parents and children.
LOUISIANA SUES ONLINE GAMING PLATFORM ROBLOX FOR ALLEGEDLY ENABLING CHILD PREDATORS
Despite the multimillion-dollar payouts and state investigations, Roblox CEO Dave Baszucki defended the platform earlier this month during an exclusive interview with "Fox & Friends'" co-host Ainsley Earhardt.
Rejecting accusations that the platform is a playground for pedophiles, Baszucki framed the recent overhauls as a continuation of Roblox's proactive commitment to setting a "global gold standard" for digital safety.
He emphasized that Roblox builds in safety features "by default" ahead of legal requirements, strictly prohibits image sharing and filters all chat communications.
"Roblox is proud to have worked collaboratively with Attorney General McCuskey to reach this agreement, which builds on our ongoing mission to establish the gold standard for digital safety," Roblox Chief Safety Officer Matt Kaufman wrote in a statement to FOX Business.
"This resolution — including our support for parent educational workshops and a dedicated law enforcement liaison — serves as an important blueprint for how the technology industry and regulators can work together proactively to help protect the next generation.
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"We have no finish line when it comes to safety," Kaufman added. "We will continue to invest heavily in our people, processes and technology to protect our community."
McCuskey's office did not immediately respond to FOX Business' request for comment.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/entertainment/states-secure-23m-from-roblox-mandate-stricter-protections-young-users-the-right-thing-doGOP senator will block Warsh nomination until 'bogus' Powell probe endsSen. Thom Tillis says he’ll block Kevin Warsh’s Federal Reserve chairman nomination unless DOJ drops probe into Chair Jerome Powell.
Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., said Tuesday he will continue to block Kevin Warsh’s confirmation to lead the Federal Reserve after a heated hearing, arguing the process cannot move forward amid an ongoing Justice Department investigation involving Fed Chair Jerome Powell.
"At the end of the day, there's only one thing that solves this problem, and it's getting rid of the bogus investigation that started without the president's knowledge and has created this situation," Tillis told FOX Business outside the hearing room.
"If we want to get Mr. Warsh confirmed, we need to drop the investigation," Tillis added, saying it could be done in "five minutes" and urging the DOJ to act.
THE ONE LINE IN WARSH’S TESTIMONY SIGNALING A BREAK FROM THE FED’S STATUS QUO
Tillis, who met with Warsh in March, praised the former Fed governor’s credentials and signaled support during the hearing.
"You have extraordinary credentials – they're impeccable. The problem I have is where we are right now," Tillis said, pointing to the Justice Department probe involving Powell.
On Jan. 11, Powell confirmed that the DOJ had opened a criminal investigation into his congressional testimony related to the renovation of the Federal Reserve’s two historic buildings on Washington, D.C.’s National Mall.
Powell called the probe "unprecedented" in a video statement and framed it as part of what he described as ongoing threats from President Donald Trump against the central bank. His public response – after days of private consultations with advisors – marked a sharp departure from his typically measured approach.
The investigation marks one of the most challenging stretches of Powell’s eight-year tenure leading the Fed.
FEDERAL RESERVE CHAIR POWELL UNDER CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION OVER HQ RENOVATION
The renovation of the Federal Reserve's two main office buildings in Washington’s Foggy Bottom neighborhood is estimated to cost $2.5 billion and is being funded by the central bank itself, not by taxpayers.
The Fed is self-financing and does not rely on congressional appropriations to cover its operating expenses, which include employee salaries, facilities maintenance and the current renovation. Its primary income comes from interest earned on government securities and fees charged to financial institutions.
In June 2025, Powell told members of the Senate Banking Committee, "There’s no new marble. There are no special elevators. They’re old elevators that have been there. There are no new water features. There are no beehives, and there’s no roof garden terraces."
FROM MORTGAGES TO CAR LOANS: HOW AFFORDABILITY RISES AND FALLS WITH THE FED
Powell also told lawmakers that no one "wants to do a major renovation of a historic building during their term in office."
"We decided to take it on because, honestly, when I was the administrative governor, before I became chair, I came to understand how badly the Eccles Building really needed a serious renovation," Powell said, adding the building is "not really safe" and not waterproof.
He also said the cost overruns are due, in part, to unexpected construction challenges and the nation's inflation rate.
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The project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2027, and Washington-based employees are slated to begin working in the building in March 2028.
Warsh, who was tapped by Trump in January to succeed Powell, is poised to take the helm of the world’s most powerful central bank at a turbulent moment for the Federal Reserve.
Aside from the probe involving Powell, the Supreme Court is weighing limits on the Fed’s independence and rising cost-of-living pressures are testing Trump’s economic agenda.
In short, the stakes for the next chair are intensifying.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/politics/gop-senator-block-warsh-nomination-until-bogus-powell-probe-endsTrump says he wants 'somebody' to buy Spirit Airlines, opposes United-American mergerPresident Donald Trump says he wants someone to buy Spirit Airlines as the low-cost carrier battles bankruptcy and rising fuel costs threaten its recovery plan.
President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he wants to see someone purchase Spirit Airlines, with the low-cost carrier facing headwinds as it looks to exit bankruptcy.
Trump was interviewed on CNBC's "Squawk Box" and said, "I don't mind mergers" and suggested that could help resolve the issues Spirit faces.
"You know, Spirit's in trouble, and I'd love somebody to buy Spirit. It's 14,000 jobs, and maybe the federal government should help that one out," the president said.
He also drew a distinction between a merger involving Spirit and the reports of a possible merger between United Airlines and American Airlines, saying those companies are "doing very well. I don't like having them merge."
RISING FUEL COSTS THREATEN SPIRIT AIRLINES' BANKRUPTCY EXIT PLAN: REPORTS
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy spoke Tuesday at an event on reforms to the nation's Air Traffic Control system and acknowledged the president's comments, adding he will look into the matter.
"The president says take a look. And he is my boss. And, so, we will take a look," Duffy said.
Spirit Airlines filed for its second bankruptcy in August 2025 amid mounting losses and dwindling cash reserves. The low-cost carrier first filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November 2024 after unsuccessful merger talks with JetBlue and Frontier.
SPIRIT AIRLINES REACHES DEAL TO EXIT BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDINGS BY EARLY SUMMER
In late February, Spirit announced a deal that would allow it to exit bankruptcy proceedings by early summer after reaching an agreement with lenders.
The airline told a bankruptcy court the deal would allow it to emerge as a leaner carrier, focusing on routes and time periods with the strongest demand as well as cutting some of its high-cost aircraft leases and improving the utilization of its remaining fleet.
It also planned to expand premium seating options and enhance its loyalty programs to drive repeat business and preserve its low-fare positioning.
AMERICAN AIRLINES JOINS WAVE OF CARRIERS HIKING CHECKED BAG FEES AS JET FUEL PRICES SKYROCKET
That plan has been threatened by a recent surge in fuel prices driven by the Iran war because Spirit's low-cost structure is more vulnerable to surging fuel costs as it has less flexibility to raise fares due to the risk of declining demand.
The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg reported that some of Spirit's creditors have explored the potential liquidation of Spirit due to the situation. Creditors have also raised concerns about the viability of the restructuring plan if fuel prices remain elevated.
The report noted that JPMorgan analysts estimate that higher fuel prices could add about $360 million to Spirit's expenses this year, exceeding the $337 million in cash it reported at the end of last year.
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The company said in court filings it expects fuel price volatility to ease in the coming months, with conditions potentially stabilizing later this spring.
FOX Business reached out to the White House and the Department of Transportation.
FOX Business' Bradford Betz and Reuters contributed to this report.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/trump-says-he-wants-somebody-buy-spirit-airlines-opposes-united-american-mergerUnited Airlines slashes 2026 forecast as fuel costs surgeThe carrier's first-quarter earnings topped Wall Street's expectations.{}
Amazon launches GLP-1 weight loss program, promising 'fast, convenient' accessThrough Amazon Pharmacy, patients will be able to access medications including Novo Nordisk's Wegovy as well as newer oral GLP-1 options.{}
‘We gotta eat’: Philly butcher on rising beef prices as customers adjust spending habitsThe Justice Department has launched a criminal investigation into surging beef prices as the U.S. cattle herd remains at historically low levels.
Rising beef prices are drawing renewed scrutiny as federal investigators examine whether market dynamics or potential misconduct, are driving costs higher for American consumers.
FOX Business’ Jeff Flock joined FOX Business’ Stuart Varney on "Varney & Co." to report on a new Justice Department criminal investigation tied to the surge in beef prices as households continue to feel the strain at grocery stores.
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Government data shows ground beef prices have surged, with the Consumer Price Index putting a pound at $6.86 in March, up from $4.64 in 2021, an increase of roughly 50%. Prices are also about $1 higher than a year ago. Steak has climbed as well, reaching about $12.73 per pound.
These concerns have reached Washington. President Donald Trump, in November, called for action on rising prices and industry practices in a post on Truth Social.
"Action must be taken immediately to protect consumers, combat illegal monopolies, and ensure these corporations are not criminally profiting at the expense of the American People," he said.
At Lombardi’s Prime Meats in Philadelphia, butcher Rob Passio said customers are adjusting their spending habits as prices rise.
"It is what it is. We gotta eat… Maybe they're saving on other aspects… Maybe they are not going out to dinner as much. Maybe they're… saving on their utilities," Passio said.
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Industry pressures extend beyond the checkout counter. Passio pointed to rising operational costs affecting businesses across the supply chain.
"Having two businesses, everything's high. Insurances went up, payrolls up, utilities are up. So could the meat packers at this time be like, you know what, we have to make some extra money. We have to raise the prices to cover these added expenses," he said.
The investigation comes as the U.S. cattle herd remains at historically low levels and drought conditions continue to impact key livestock regions, factors that have contributed to tighter supply and elevated prices.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/we-gotta-eat-philly-butcher-on-rising-beef-prices-customers-adjust-spending-habitsCalifornia accuses Amazon of pushing rivals to raise pricesCalifornia officials claim Amazon pressured vendors and retailers to increase prices, part of a broader antitrust case targeting alleged market manipulation.
California officials allege Amazon may have quietly driven up prices across the internet by pressuring retailers and brands not to undercut its listings, according to newly unsealed court evidence.
The allegations, revealed Monday as part of the state’s antitrust lawsuit, claim Amazon worked behind the scenes with companies like Levi Strauss and others to influence pricing at competitors, including Walmart, Home Depot and Chewy.
In one example cited by the state, Levi’s allegedly pushed Walmart to raise the price of khaki pants after Amazon raised concerns about a lower listing. In another, Amazon encouraged suppliers to coordinate price increases on products like pet treats – moves California says helped Amazon avoid having to match lower prices.
"As we are not a party to this litigation, we have no comment on the subject allegations," a Levi Strauss spokesperson said.
FOX Business reached out to Walmart, Home Depot and Chewy.
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State officials argue the conduct was not isolated, but part of a broader strategy used across product categories over several years. The filing outlines three alleged tactics: encouraging competitors to raise prices, temporarily breaking price matches, so higher prices stick, and in some cases removing lower-priced products from rival sites altogether.
In certain instances, vendors allegedly pulled products from competing retailers entirely – eliminating cheaper options before prices rose on Amazon and elsewhere.
The filing also claims Amazon enforced compliance by leveraging its market power, including threatening to suppress product listings, limit promotions or impose financial penalties on vendors that allowed lower prices on other platforms.
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Officials say vendors often had little choice but to comply, given Amazon’s scale and importance to their business.
"Amazon is illegally working to rake in profits by making sure consumers have nowhere else to turn to for lower prices," Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement.
Amazon denied the claims, saying its agreements with sellers are legal and help ensure competitive pricing and product availability. The company said it is "consistently identified as America’s lowest-priced online retailer" and called the lawsuit an attempt to distract from a weak case.
The filing also alleges Amazon discouraged employees from documenting sensitive pricing discussions in writing, instead encouraging the use of phone calls.
The case comes as Amazon’s scale continues to grow – the company recently surpassed Walmart in annual revenue – intensifying scrutiny over its influence on online pricing.
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California is seeking to block the alleged practices and recover profits, with a hearing scheduled for July and trial set for January 2027.
Reuters contributed to this report.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/retail/california-accuses-amazon-pushing-rivals-raise-pricesUPS and FedEx have begun filing for some tariff refundsUPS and FedEx have begun filing requests for some tariff refunds through the government's refund process, but those funds could take months to reach customers.{}
Michael and Susan Dell to donate $750 million to UT Austin to fund new medical campusThe donation will create a new hospital at the school where Michael Dell was once a premed student.{}
Expert rips ‘irresponsible’ AI study over blackmail scenariosExperts debate Anthropic's AI safety study after models allegedly resorted to blackmail in constrained scenarios designed to test edge-case decision-making.
Concerns about artificial intelligence behaving unpredictably are gaining attention following a recent experiment involving leading AI models, though experts remain divided on what the findings actually demonstrate.
President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology Co-Chair David Sacks joined FOX Business’ Maria Bartiromo on "Mornings with Maria" to address claims tied to an Anthropic study examining so-called "agentic misalignment."
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The study, highlighted by Google Cloud Advisory Board Chair Betsy Atkins, tested how AI systems respond under pressure. According to Atkins, the models crossed established boundaries when placed in constrained scenarios.
"Every single one of them went outside of their credentials and permissions, burrowed into systems they were not authorized to get access to," Atkins said, claiming that in one case an AI system escalated to blackmail after identifying sensitive personal information.
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Anthropic’s research outlines that these behaviors occurred in simulated environments designed to test edge-case decision-making, where models were given specific instructions and constraints.
Sacks pointed to those conditions as central to understanding the results, noting the behavior did not emerge spontaneously.
"The people who… created that study had to iterate on the prompt over 200 times to get the AI model to do what they wanted, which was to achieve this headline-grabbing result of blackmailing the user," Sacks said.
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He added that the setup placed the model in a scenario where "blackmail was really the only logical result," emphasizing that the system was responding to instructions rather than acting independently.
"The AI is not scheming… It’s engaging in a form of instruction... I think that that study was irresponsible and it was designed to create this," Sacks said.
Sacks also noted that similar behavior has not been observed outside controlled testing environments, saying "a year later, we actually have not seen any examples of this behavior in the wild."
The findings come as policymakers and industry leaders continue evaluating how to interpret AI safety research conducted under experimental conditions.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/media/expert-rips-irresponsible-ai-study-over-blackmail-sceneriosDOJ reportedly pursuing criminal antitrust probe of major meatpacking companiesThe DOJ is reportedly investigating four major beef companies in a criminal antitrust probe after Trump claimed meatpackers manipulated cattle prices.
The Justice Department is reportedly pursuing a criminal antitrust investigation of large meatpacking companies after President Donald Trump called for them to face a probe over the higher prices facing consumers.
The Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources familiar with the matter, that while the DOJ indicated it was investigating beef companies following the president's request, the criminal nature of the probe hasn't been disclosed previously.
Trump claimed in November that beef companies were manipulating the purchase price of cattle they bought from ranchers while raising prices on consumers. The report noted that criminal antitrust cases typically focus on allegations related to market collusion or price fixing.
The Journal reported that although Trump's comments placed blame on "majority foreign owned meatpackers," the investigation is looking at four major companies that sell beef in the U.S.
The report noted that Tyson Foods, Cargill, JBS and National Beef are the four leading companies operating in that portion of the U.S. market, with Tyson and Cargill both U.S.-headquartered firms, while JBS and National Beef are from Brazil.
Antitrust regulators have looked into the contracts used by beef companies to acquire cattle from ranchers which reference a pricing benchmark that some ranchers have claimed is manipulated, one of the Journal's sources told the outlet.
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Additionally, the Journal reported that leading beef processors were the subject of an investigation that began in Trump's first term and continued through Biden's term, but was closed by the Justice Department weeks before it launched its most recent probe on similar grounds.
Beef prices have surged over the last year amid strong demand from consumers while the U.S. cattle industry is facing a shortage with the cattle supply at its lowest level in over 70 years.
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Drought contributed to the decline in the cattle supply, as it impacted grasslands in states like Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and parts of the Southeast that were used by cattle ranchers' herds. The loss of those foraging areas caused ranches to liquidate cows and shrink their herds.
Ranchers are also facing rising overhead costs, as items like feed, labor, fuel and equipment expenses have trended higher.
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics' data from the March release of the consumer price index (CPI) showed that beef and veal prices were up 12.1% over the last year. Within that category, ground beef prices are up 11% while prices for beef steaks have risen 15.2% over that period.
https://www.foxbusiness.com/economy/doj-reportedly-pursuing-criminal-antitrust-probe-major-meatpacking-companies