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Business news, market updates, and economic developments

Can debt collectors garnish your spouse's income for your debt?

Can debt collectors garnish your spouse's income for your debt?

Summary

Debt collectors generally cannot take money from a spouse’s paycheck for debt that only one partner owes. However, if both spouses share the debt legally or live in certain states with special laws, a spouse’s income could be at risk for repayment.

Key Facts

  • Debt collectors usually cannot garnish a spouse’s wages if only one person owes a debt.
  • If both spouses signed the loan or credit agreement, both are responsible and wages of either may be garnished.
  • Some states have community property laws where debts and assets gained during marriage are shared.
  • In community property states, creditors may have more rights to collect from a spouse’s income.
  • Wage garnishment rules vary widely by state, so local laws matter a lot.
  • Certain debts like unpaid taxes, child support, and some government debts can lead to stronger collection efforts.
  • Medical debts can also create responsibilities for spouses in some states.
  • It is often helpful to consult a lawyer to understand how state laws apply to debt collection for spouses.
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FDA gives emergency approval to screwworm over-the-counter pet drug

FDA gives emergency approval to screwworm over-the-counter pet drug

Summary

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gave emergency approval for a generic pill that pets can take without a prescription. This pill treats New World screwworm, a parasite that affects dogs, cats, and livestock. Officials confirmed several cases of this parasite in cattle in Texas and New Mexico.

Key Facts

  • The FDA approved an over-the-counter generic tablet to treat New World screwworm in pets.
  • This is the first generic animal drug authorized against the screwworm parasite.
  • The approval was granted as an emergency use authorization.
  • Screwworm parasites have been found in at least seven cattle in Texas and New Mexico.
  • The drug works by killing the parasite to protect affected animals.
  • New World screwworm is a parasite that can hurt pets and livestock if untreated.
  • Over-the-counter means pet owners can buy the drug without a vet prescription.
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Andy Burnham rules out paying compensation to Waspi women

Andy Burnham rules out paying compensation to Waspi women

Summary

Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, said he will not pay direct compensation to Waspi women who were affected by changes to the state pension age. Instead, he is open to offering other benefits like cheaper transport to support these women.

Key Facts

  • Waspi women are those born in the 1950s who lost pension benefits due to changes in the state pension age.
  • Burnham initially supported compensation but reversed this after concerns about the high cost.
  • The government said compensating all affected women could cost up to £10.3 billion.
  • A parliamentary ombudsman recommended compensation in March 2024, but the government refused to pay.
  • Burnham wants to provide other benefits, such as early access to concessionary travel in Greater Manchester.
  • Waspi campaigners say many women were not properly informed about pension age changes.
  • The pension age was increased from 60 to 65, then 66, faster than originally planned.
  • Labour MPs, including Burnham, have supported the Waspi campaign even though compensation is not in the Labour manifesto.
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AI wealth boom sending San Francisco home prices surging: ‘It’s ridiculous’

AI wealth boom sending San Francisco home prices surging: ‘It’s ridiculous’

Summary

Home prices in the San Francisco Bay Area are rising quickly due to a surge in wealth from employees at major artificial intelligence (AI) companies preparing for stock market offerings. The growing money linked to these companies is increasing demand for homes, while the supply of houses remains low, pushing prices even higher.

Key Facts

  • Median home prices in San Francisco reached over $2 million in March 2026, up 18% from the previous year.
  • Houses sell faster now, with an average of 29 days on the market, the quickest pace since spring 2022.
  • More than 600 OpenAI employees sold shares worth $6.6 billion last fall; about 75 of them earned $30 million each.
  • Employees at AI companies like OpenAI, Anthropic, and SpaceX are expected to see large financial gains from upcoming stock market listings.
  • Some potential home buyers want to buy before the IPOs happen, expecting prices to rise further.
  • The trend of tech company wealth driving housing demand is similar to what happened in the dotcom era and early 2010s tech boom.
  • SpaceX’s planned initial public offering aims for a valuation of $1.77 trillion, potentially the largest IPO ever.
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Dozens of crisis payments handed out by council

Dozens of crisis payments handed out by council

Summary

West Devon Council has given out 78 crisis grant payments since April to help people facing financial difficulties, especially with rising heating oil costs. The council received over £300,000 from a larger Devon fund and plans to provide quick payments and long-term support through an advice team and other aid programs.

Key Facts

  • Since April, West Devon Council has made 78 crisis grant payments to people in financial trouble.
  • Many payments help families struggling with higher heating oil prices.
  • The Crisis and Resilience Fund replaced the earlier Household Support Fund.
  • New government rules require payments to be made within 48 hours after a completed application.
  • West Devon received more than £300,000 from an £8.4 million fund for Devon, with two-thirds for immediate crisis help.
  • The council approved spending £20,000 on a part-time case worker who specializes in benefits and debt advice.
  • Homemaker Southwest, supported by the council, previously helped residents gain £20,600 over six months.
  • Around £10,000 will be reserved to provide items like slow cookers, electric blankets, and warm clothes for people in need.
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Behind the rising costs of ticket prices for concerts, sports and more

Behind the rising costs of ticket prices for concerts, sports and more

Summary

Ticket prices for events like concerts, sports games, and the World Cup are going up. This article explains the reasons for these price increases and offers tips on how people can save money when buying tickets.

Key Facts

  • Ticket prices are rising for concerts, sports events, and major competitions like the World Cup and NBA Finals.
  • Several factors contribute to higher prices, including increased demand and higher costs for event organizers.
  • Technology and online platforms have changed how tickets are sold, sometimes leading to higher fees.
  • Resale and secondary markets can also drive up ticket costs.
  • Consumers can save money by buying tickets early, using trusted sellers, and looking for discounts.
  • Event popularity and limited seat availability influence ticket price increases.
  • Organizers face higher expenses for security, venues, and production, impacting ticket costs.
  • Understanding these factors helps consumers make better decisions when purchasing event tickets.
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Paper plant closure fears spark community protest

Paper plant closure fears spark community protest

Summary

DS Smith, a paper packaging company, is considering closing its factory in Launceston, where 167 people work. Workers and local residents protested because they worry the closure would hurt the community and cause job losses.

Key Facts

  • DS Smith has employed workers in Launceston for nearly 60 years.
  • The company is reviewing its UK packaging operations due to difficult market conditions.
  • A consultation is ongoing between management, workers, and unions about the factory’s future.
  • The proposed closure could lead to job losses for 167 employees.
  • Local people, including families of workers, organized a protest to highlight the importance of the plant.
  • DS Smith recently made 70 job cuts at another UK site in Louth.
  • Several other DS Smith factories in the UK have closed after consultations last year.
  • The company said it supports workers during the consultation but cannot give more details until it ends.
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BT boss takes home £5.6m as pay and bonus package more than doubles

BT boss takes home £5.6m as pay and bonus package more than doubles

Summary

The chief executive of BT, Allison Kirkby, received a pay and bonus package of £5.6 million for the year ending March 2024, more than double her previous year's total. This is the largest pay award for a BT boss in over ten years, reflecting the company's improved share price and progress in its network upgrade projects.

Key Facts

  • Allison Kirkby became BT’s chief executive in February 2024.
  • Her total pay, including bonuses and shares, was £5.58 million for the year ending March 2024.
  • This amount more than doubled her £2.48 million package from her first year as CEO.
  • The package is larger than the £3.7 million paid to her predecessor Philip Jansen.
  • The highest BT CEO pay before was £9.4 million to Ian Livingston in 2012-13.
  • Kirkby received a £1 million cash bonus and £3.25 million in share awards to be paid over three years.
  • BT’s share price rose nearly 80% since Kirkby started, boosting the value of her bonuses.
  • The company announced a £15 billion investment to upgrade to full fibre broadband and 5G.
  • BT plans to cut 55,000 jobs by 2030 as part of efficiency improvements and the end of its building phase.
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A look at the fast-growing space economy as Elon Musk's SpaceX is set to go public

A look at the fast-growing space economy as Elon Musk's SpaceX is set to go public

Summary

Elon Musk's company SpaceX will start selling shares to the public on Friday. This move highlights how the space industry is growing quickly as more companies join in and compete.

Key Facts

  • SpaceX, owned by Elon Musk, is going public by offering shares to investors.
  • The space economy is expanding rapidly with many companies involved.
  • Going public means SpaceX will allow outside investors to buy parts of the company.
  • This step aims to raise money and grow SpaceX’s businesses.
  • The space industry includes activities like satellite launches and space travel.
  • Investors are interested because space is seen as a new area for business growth.
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ECB raises eurozone interest rates as Iran war stokes inflation

ECB raises eurozone interest rates as Iran war stokes inflation

Summary

The European Central Bank (ECB) raised interest rates for the first time since 2023 to tackle rising inflation linked to the war in Iran. The ECB increased its main deposit rate from 2% to 2.25% and expects to raise rates further by next spring to control price growth in the eurozone.

Key Facts

  • The ECB raised its main deposit interest rate from 2% to 2.25%.
  • Eurozone inflation rose to 3.2% in May 2026, up from 3% in April.
  • The war in Iran has contributed to higher inflation by increasing costs for manufacturers and retailers.
  • Oil prices remain above $90 a barrel, higher than about $70 before the war.
  • Financial markets expect two more ECB interest rate increases by next spring.
  • The ECB delayed rate hikes in 2022, hoping for a peace deal between President Donald Trump and Iran.
  • No peace deal has been reached so far, increasing inflation risks.
  • ECB President Christine Lagarde said raising borrowing costs is needed to control inflation.
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Eurozone hit by first interest rate rise since 2023 as ECB battles inflation from Middle East war – business live

Eurozone hit by first interest rate rise since 2023 as ECB battles inflation from Middle East war – business live

Summary

The European Central Bank (ECB) has raised interest rates by 0.25 percentage points for the first time since September 2023. This decision comes because inflation in the eurozone increased to 3.2% last month, partly due to higher energy prices caused by the war in the Middle East.

Key Facts

  • The ECB increased its deposit facility rate from 2.0% to 2.25%.
  • The main refinancing rate rose from 2.15% to 2.4%.
  • The marginal lending rate went up from 2.4% to 2.65%.
  • Inflation in the eurozone reached 3.2% last month.
  • The war in the Middle East has caused energy prices to rise, pushing inflation higher.
  • The ECB lowered its economic growth forecasts for 2026 and 2027 due to the conflict’s effects.
  • Inflation forecasts have been increased for 2026 and 2027 because of expected higher energy price impacts.
  • The ECB is the first major central bank among the G7 countries to raise interest rates in response to the Middle East war.
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GoPro under intense pressure from rising costs and competition

GoPro under intense pressure from rising costs and competition

Summary

GoPro is facing serious financial problems due to rising costs, weaker demand, and strong competition, especially from smartphones. The company is exploring options like a sale or merger to stay afloat, while also trying to find new markets in defense and aerospace.

Key Facts

  • GoPro has been losing money and has negative cash flow from its operations.
  • Auditors warned there is doubt GoPro can continue operating without financial support.
  • The company is in talks with lenders like Farallon Capital Management and Wells Fargo.
  • GoPro hired a financial advisor to explore a possible sale or merger but no buyer has appeared yet.
  • Revenue dropped 44% over four years, with latest quarterly sales also down significantly.
  • GoPro introduced a new Mission 1 camera line with advanced features in May.
  • The company is cutting 23% of its staff to reduce costs.
  • GoPro is trying to expand its technology into defense and aerospace industries.
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ITV says World Cup will be ‘six-week Super Bowl’ for advertising

ITV says World Cup will be ‘six-week Super Bowl’ for advertising

Summary

ITV expects the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, to be its most profitable sports event ever, calling it a “six-week summer Super Bowl moment” for advertising. The channel will air 51 out of 104 matches and has already sold ad packages to over 220 advertisers, including tech companies and new TV advertisers like Jeremy Clarkson’s lager brand.

Key Facts

  • The 2026 World Cup has expanded to 48 teams and features 104 matches.
  • ITV will broadcast 51 matches and expects its advertising revenue to be about 30% higher than during Euro 2024.
  • A 30-second ad during an England game can cost up to £300,000.
  • Nike will air a six-minute-long commercial, the longest ever UK TV ad, during England’s first game.
  • Around 220 advertisers have bought TV ad slots, with about 70 new to football ads and 8 new to TV advertising altogether.
  • Major tech companies advertising include Google, Amazon Web Services, Apple, Dell, Microsoft, and Meta.
  • Kick-off times for England’s early matches are 9pm or 10pm UK time, which could attract larger audiences.
  • ITV emphasizes that live, free-to-air sports events bring unique large audiences that streaming and social media cannot match.
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What will happen to gold prices if inflation stays elevated through 2026? Here's what experts say.

What will happen to gold prices if inflation stays elevated through 2026? Here's what experts say.

Summary

Gold prices reached record highs in 2025 but have been unstable recently, ranging from $4,300 to $5,500 per ounce. Experts believe that if inflation stays high, gold prices will likely remain steady or rise, but if inflation falls, gold prices may drop somewhat.

Key Facts

  • Gold hit record prices multiple times in 2025, fluctuating between $4,300 and $5,500 per ounce.
  • Rising inflation reached its highest level in over three years as of recent data.
  • Inflation reduces the buying power of the U.S. dollar, making gold a popular choice to protect wealth.
  • Experts say high inflation may increase demand for gold and push prices higher, possibly to around $5,000 per ounce by the end of 2026.
  • If the Federal Reserve raises interest rates to fight inflation, it could lower demand and prices for gold.
  • Higher interest rates encourage investors to choose assets with better returns instead of gold.
  • If inflation eases, demand for gold may decrease but prices should remain relatively high due to other economic factors.
  • Gold is mainly seen as a way to preserve wealth, not to grow money quickly.
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Housing Market Warning as Inflation Rises to Highest Level in 3 Years

Housing Market Warning as Inflation Rises to Highest Level in 3 Years

Summary

Inflation in the U.S. rose to 4.2% in May, the highest in three years, mainly due to higher energy prices linked to the conflict involving Iran. This rise in inflation makes it less likely that the Federal Reserve will lower interest rates soon, which could keep mortgage rates high and affect the housing market’s affordability.

Key Facts

  • Inflation increased to 4.2% in May, up from 3.8% in April, the highest since 2023.
  • Higher energy costs, including a 3.9% rise in May, were a major cause of inflation.
  • The Iran conflict disrupted oil markets and shipping routes, pushing energy prices up.
  • Gasoline prices averaged $4.13 per gallon nationally as of the article’s date.
  • Shelter costs grew 3.4% over the year, while food prices rose 0.3% in May.
  • Real wages fell by 0.1% in May, meaning earnings did not keep up with rising prices.
  • The Federal Reserve is unlikely to cut interest rates soon and might even raise them.
  • President Donald Trump expressed support for current inflation numbers and mentioned secret plans to move oil tankers to lower fuel costs.
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China’s Jingye seeks compensation from UK over British Steel takeover

China’s Jingye seeks compensation from UK over British Steel takeover

Summary

The Chinese company Jingye Steel is seeking compensation from the UK government after the UK took control of British Steel's Scunthorpe plant. Jingye is using an international treaty between China and the UK to try to recover money following the nationalisation of the steelworks.

Key Facts

  • Jingye Steel owns British Steel and is pursuing payment under the China-UK bilateral investment treaty.
  • The UK nationalised British Steel in April 2023, citing national security and job concerns.
  • Jingye had planned to close the Scunthorpe plant, risking 2,700 jobs and large losses.
  • Jingye initially aimed to recover about £711 million but may seek over £1 billion.
  • The dispute could be decided by an international arbitrator after six months of consultations.
  • The UK government intends to fully nationalise British Steel and later sell it to new private owners.
  • The UK plans to reduce tariff-free steel imports, potentially benefiting British Steel.
  • New owners will likely need subsidies to update the plant with modern, eco-friendly technology.
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Race-obsessed, untouchable Musk hits escape velocity from CEO rulebook

Race-obsessed, untouchable Musk hits escape velocity from CEO rulebook

Summary

Elon Musk, the world’s richest person, is preparing SpaceX for a very large public stock offering. At the same time, he frequently shares strong opinions about immigration and politics that have sparked controversy but have not reduced investor interest in his companies.

Key Facts

  • Elon Musk is close to becoming the first trillionaire.
  • SpaceX is planning a huge initial public offering (IPO) expected to be worth $1.75 trillion.
  • Musk often posts on social media about violence and immigration issues, which has led to criticism from political leaders.
  • Recently, Belfast saw riots sparked by violence claimed to involve a migrant, and Musk encouraged protests there.
  • Musk supports claims about voter fraud related to immigrants in the U.S., especially in California.
  • Musk promotes a belief that Western white culture is being threatened by migration and social changes.
  • Despite controversies, Musk’s companies remain highly valued and important to the economy.
  • Investors continue to want shares in Musk’s businesses, showing tolerance for his political statements.
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2026 World Cup set to generate nearly $41bn in economic output

2026 World Cup set to generate nearly $41bn in economic output

Summary

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, starting in Mexico, is expected to generate nearly $41 billion in economic activity worldwide. FIFA, the organization that runs the tournament, is forecasted to make a record $11 billion in revenue.

Key Facts

  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins this Thursday in Mexico.
  • The tournament is predicted to create about $41 billion in economic output globally.
  • FIFA expects to earn a record $11 billion from the World Cup.
  • The economic boost includes spending on hotels, travel, and local businesses in host countries.
  • The report highlights the financial impact on both the global economy and the World Cup host nations.
  • Other news mentioned includes market reactions to violence in the Strait of Hormuz and a lawsuit against SpaceX before its stock market debut.
  • The article is mainly focused on the business and economic aspects of the World Cup event.
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Hugo Boss shares jump as it says it will ‘thoroughly examine’ Frasers offer

Hugo Boss shares jump as it says it will ‘thoroughly examine’ Frasers offer

Summary

Hugo Boss shares rose nearly 7% after the company said it will carefully review a nearly €2 billion takeover offer from Frasers Group, owned by Mike Ashley. Frasers already owns about 26% of Hugo Boss and is offering €38 per share in cash to take full control of the German fashion brand.

Key Facts

  • Frasers Group, led by Mike Ashley, proposed to buy all Hugo Boss shares for about €1.98 billion.
  • The offer price is €38 per share, which is 4.3% higher than the previous closing price.
  • Hugo Boss shares increased from €39 to €38.84 after the news, while Frasers shares fell 2.5%.
  • Hugo Boss generated €4.3 billion in sales last year and is Germany’s biggest luxury fashion group.
  • The Hugo Boss board said the offer was not coordinated with the company and will be thoroughly examined.
  • Frasers owns other retail brands like Sports Direct, House of Fraser, Flannels, and Gieves & Hawkes.
  • Hugo Boss has been working on a turnaround plan, updating stores and products, focusing more on womenswear.
  • JP Morgan Chase said the bid sets a near-term price floor for Hugo Boss shares but sees little chance of a competing offer.
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Asian shares mixed after another sell-off of AI stocks on Wall St, while oil prices ease

Asian shares mixed after another sell-off of AI stocks on Wall St, while oil prices ease

Summary

Asian stock markets showed mixed results after U.S. markets fell due to another drop in artificial-intelligence (AI) stocks. Oil prices went down slightly after rising earlier, following a U.S. airstrike against Iran.

Key Facts

  • Asian markets had mixed movements: Tokyo's Nikkei barely rose, Seoul's Kospi went up 0.4%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng and Shanghai’s Composite index fell.
  • On Wall Street, major indexes dropped sharply: S&P 500 fell 1.6%, Dow Jones lost 1.9%, and Nasdaq dropped 2%.
  • AI stocks led the decline, with big companies like Nvidia falling 3.7% and Broadcom down 5.1%.
  • Some investors worry AI stock prices rose too fast and may be correcting.
  • Super Micro Computer's stock fell 28% after announcing plans to raise $7 billion through stock sales, which can reduce current shareholders’ control.
  • Micron Technology experienced large price swings in recent days, reflecting market uncertainty.
  • Some investors might be selling AI stocks to prepare for upcoming initial public offerings (IPOs), like SpaceX’s potential debut.
  • Brent crude oil prices dropped 0.3% to about $92.81 a barrel after earlier increases related to U.S. military actions against Iran.
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