Account

The Actual News

Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

Business News

Business news, market updates, and economic developments

UK has wealthy Europe’s ‘third-highest’ rate of young adults not in work or study

UK has wealthy Europe’s ‘third-highest’ rate of young adults not in work or study

Summary

A report by the Resolution Foundation shows that the UK has the third-highest rate of young people (ages 16-24) not in work, education, or training among wealthy European countries. The rise is linked to growing health problems, weak job support systems, and a tough job market.

Key Facts

  • Nearly 1 million young people in the UK are not in work, education, or training, the highest number in over ten years.
  • The UK’s rate for 18-24 year olds not in work or study rose from 13% in 2019 to 15% in 2025.
  • Only Italy and Lithuania have higher rates among 22 rich European countries analyzed.
  • Rising mental health issues contribute significantly to the problem.
  • The UK’s benefits system often gives young people fewer job support requirements compared to other countries.
  • Half of the increase in young people not working or studying is due to a weaker job market.
  • Government critics say recent tax and wage changes have made employment more expensive for businesses.
  • A government-funded review is underway to explore ways to reduce youth unemployment.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Capital One $425M Settlement: Who Is Eligible for Payout?

Capital One $425M Settlement: Who Is Eligible for Payout?

Summary

A federal judge approved a $425 million settlement for Capital One customers linked to its 360 Savings accounts. The case claimed Capital One paid lower interest rates on older accounts compared to its newer 360 Performance Savings accounts. Customers who held the older accounts between September 18, 2019, and June 16, 2025, may receive compensation without needing to file a claim.

Key Facts

  • The settlement is $425 million to resolve claims about differing interest rates between two Capital One savings accounts.
  • Capital One denied any wrongdoing but agreed to the settlement.
  • Eligible customers held a 360 Savings account, not a 360 Performance Savings account, during the specified period.
  • Payments will be calculated using Capital One’s records; no claim is needed from customers.
  • The amount each person receives depends on how long the account was held and the balance during the period.
  • Payments are expected by late July 2024, possibly July 27.
  • After the settlement, interest rates on affected 360 Savings accounts will increase.
  • If the court decision is appealed, the payment schedule may be delayed.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Australia news live: RSL to review welcome to country policy; Angus Taylor vows to double fuel reserve

Australia news live: RSL to review welcome to country policy; Angus Taylor vows to double fuel reserve

Summary

Australia’s opposition leader, Angus Taylor, announced a plan to double the country’s fuel reserves to 60 days and spend $800 million on new storage. Meanwhile, the RSL (Returned and Services League) said it will review its policies about “welcome to country” speeches at Anzac Day events after Indigenous leaders were booed.

Key Facts

  • Angus Taylor proposes doubling Australia’s fuel reserves to at least 60 days.
  • The plan includes $800 million to build a new fuel storage facility.
  • Taylor wants baseline fuel stockholdings increased by January 1 to move toward a 90-day reserve, as suggested by the International Energy Agency.
  • Taylor states that more fuel reserves are essential to avoid disruptions in transport and business.
  • The RSL will review its guidance on “welcome to country” speeches after booing incidents at Anzac Day dawn services.
  • RSL national president Peter Tinley expressed concern about the booing but also suggested revising the speeches to be more meaningful.
  • The RSL aims to update its policies to better reflect community views and the spirit of the commemorations.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Musk vs Altman: two tech mavericks go head to head in OpenAI trial

Musk vs Altman: two tech mavericks go head to head in OpenAI trial

Summary

Elon Musk has sued Sam Altman, accusing him of fraud related to the AI company OpenAI and seeking over $130 billion in damages. The trial begins with jury selection, focusing on Musk’s claim that Altman betrayed OpenAI’s original non-profit mission.

Key Facts

  • Elon Musk and Sam Altman are involved in a legal dispute over OpenAI.
  • Musk accuses Altman of fraud.
  • Musk is asking for more than $130 billion in damages.
  • The lawsuit claims that Altman betrayed OpenAI’s founding non-profit purpose.
  • The court trial starts with selecting a jury.
  • Both Musk and Altman are well-known technology business leaders from Silicon Valley.
  • The dispute revolves around the direction and management of OpenAI, the artificial intelligence company.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

$18,000 CD vs. $18,000 high-yield savings account vs. $18,000 money market account: Which will earn the most in 2026?

$18,000 CD vs. $18,000 high-yield savings account vs. $18,000 money market account: Which will earn the most in 2026?

Summary

This article compares how much interest $18,000 can earn in 2026 when placed in a certificate of deposit (CD), a high-yield savings account, or a money market account. It explains that CDs offer fixed interest rates and higher returns over 6 to 9 months, while savings and money market accounts have variable rates and allow easier access to funds.

Key Facts

  • CDs have fixed interest rates and usually earn more interest over longer terms like 6 or 9 months.
  • High-yield savings and money market accounts have variable rates that may change over time.
  • For a 3-month period, a high-yield savings account earns the most interest on $18,000.
  • For 6 and 9 months, CDs earn slightly more interest than the other two account types.
  • The example rates used were around 3.9% to 4.1% for CDs, 4.03% for high-yield savings, and 4.00% for money market accounts.
  • Early withdrawal from CDs may incur fees and limits access to funds until maturity.
  • Savings and money market accounts offer easy access and might become more profitable if rates rise later.
  • Overall, all three options provide similar returns and are good choices depending on a saver’s needs.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

United CEO: Travelers would benefit from American Airlines merger

United CEO: Travelers would benefit from American Airlines merger

Summary

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby said American Airlines refused talks about merging the two companies. Kirby believes a merger would help U.S. travelers by improving airline service and options.

Key Facts

  • United Airlines CEO is Scott Kirby.
  • Kirby offered to discuss merging with American Airlines.
  • American Airlines declined to engage in merger talks.
  • Kirby said a merger could create benefits for travelers in the U.S.
  • The information came in a press release by United Airlines.
  • Kirby expressed optimism about potential improvements from a merger.
  • The focus is on the U.S. airline industry and customer benefits.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Does a CD account interest rate lock make sense after this week's Fed meeting?

Does a CD account interest rate lock make sense after this week's Fed meeting?

Summary

The Federal Reserve is not expected to lower interest rates soon, which means higher rates are likely to stay for now. Savers may benefit from locking in high interest rates with certificates of deposit (CDs), as traditional savings account rates are falling.

Key Facts

  • The Federal Reserve is unlikely to cut interest rates after its April meeting.
  • High interest rates are expected to remain steady for some time.
  • CDs offer a fixed, higher interest rate and protect the initial money deposited.
  • Banks may raise CD rates slightly after the Fed meeting due to uncertainty.
  • The next Federal Reserve meeting is not until mid-June, giving savers time to choose good CD rates.
  • Traditional savings account rates are dropping, now averaging about 0.38%.
  • Locking in a CD rate now could earn more interest compared to keeping money in a regular savings account.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

European flight prices are falling in short term, Wizz Air boss says

European flight prices are falling in short term, Wizz Air boss says

Summary

European flight prices have dropped in the short term as airlines try to attract customers worried about the economic effects of the US-Israel war with Iran. Wizz Air's chief executive explained that airlines can lower prices now because they bought fuel in advance at lower prices, despite higher jet fuel costs due to the conflict.

Key Facts

  • European flight prices have fallen temporarily to encourage travelers during economic uncertainty caused by the US-Israel war with Iran.
  • Jet fuel prices in Europe rose sharply after the conflict began, from $831 to nearly $1800 per metric tonne, then settled around $1500.
  • Europe relies heavily on jet fuel imports from the Gulf, but war-related disruptions have blocked much of this supply.
  • Wizz Air's chief says airlines can lower prices short term because they purchased fuel in advance at lower prices (hedging).
  • Spain’s tourism minister advises booking flights early to avoid higher prices as jet fuel costs remain high.
  • Airlines face risks of fuel shortages that could cause flight cancellations if the supply problems worsen.
  • Jet fuel prices are expected to stay above pre-war levels for many months.
  • Airlines are trying to overcome customer hesitation to book flights due to fears about the war and inflation.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Can't afford a vet visit? Consider doing these 6 things

Can't afford a vet visit? Consider doing these 6 things

Summary

Vet care costs for pets have risen sharply, making it hard for some owners to afford. Many owners use credit cards or savings to pay bills, but there are ways to reduce costs, such as pet insurance, low-cost clinics, and payment plans.

Key Facts

  • The average American spends over $4,272 yearly on one pet's routine care.
  • Over 12 years, this can add up to more than $50,000.
  • Around 38% of pet owners use credit cards to pay unaffordable vet bills.
  • About 20% use all their savings to cover vet costs.
  • Some pet owners skip vet visits due to high prices.
  • Pet insurance premiums average $62 per month for dogs and $32 for cats.
  • Many insured owners report lower out-of-pocket costs and more peace of mind.
  • Low-cost clinics and vet school clinics offer reduced-price services.
  • Some vets offer installment payment plans or partner with financing companies.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Rachel Reeves considering rent freeze to limit Iran war fallout

Rachel Reeves considering rent freeze to limit Iran war fallout

Summary

UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves is thinking about introducing a one-year rent freeze on private homes in England to help people cope with rising costs linked to the war in Iran. This would stop landlords from raising rents temporarily and is part of wider government talks on how to ease the cost of living.

Key Facts

  • Rachel Reeves may impose a rent freeze on private homes in England for one year.
  • The freeze aims to prevent rent increases due to inflation and the Iran war’s economic impact.
  • The proposal is part of a bigger cost of living support plan soon to be announced.
  • New-build homes may be excluded to encourage continued housing development.
  • The measure marks a change from previous government resistance to rent controls.
  • Experts say rent controls can help make housing affordable but may reduce new building.
  • Labour plans to build 1.5 million homes over the next parliament but current building rates are low.
  • The government is also considering help for energy bills and canceling a fuel duty rise.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

United CEO claims merger with American Airlines would be good for travelers

United CEO claims merger with American Airlines would be good for travelers

Summary

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby proposed merging with American Airlines, saying it would benefit travelers and create jobs. American Airlines rejected the idea, saying the merger would hurt competition and customers.

Key Facts

  • United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby wants to merge with American Airlines.
  • Kirby believes the merger would improve service and create a competitive, stronger airline.
  • American Airlines refuses to discuss the merger and says it would harm competition.
  • President Donald Trump opposes the merger.
  • The stocks of both airlines rose when merger talks first surfaced but fell recently due to rising fuel costs and geopolitical tensions.
  • American Airlines was formed from a merger with US Airways in 2013.
  • Kirby says the merger could boost the economy by creating jobs and supporting aircraft manufacturing.
  • United Airlines stock dropped 1.4% on Monday to $91.72; American Airlines stock fell 2% to $11.84.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Group of budget airlines pitches U.S. government for $2.5 billion in relief, report says

Group of budget airlines pitches U.S. government for $2.5 billion in relief, report says

Summary

Several budget airlines, including Frontier and Avelo, have asked the U.S. government for $2.5 billion in financial help. This request comes as Spirit Airlines is also negotiating for a loan.

Key Facts

  • Frontier Airlines and Avelo are among the budget airlines making the request.
  • They want a total of $2.5 billion in relief funds from the U.S. government.
  • Spirit Airlines is currently in talks to get a loan.
  • The report about this request was published by the Wall Street Journal.
  • The airlines are seeking support due to financial challenges.
  • CBS News covered this story with reporter Shanelle Kaul providing details.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Industrial chicken producer hits out over Wye and Usk river pollution claim

Industrial chicken producer hits out over Wye and Usk river pollution claim

Summary

Lawyers for Avara Foods and its subsidiary Freemans of Newent deny that their chicken farms caused pollution in the River Wye and River Usk. Over 1,300 people have joined a legal claim against these companies and Welsh Water, blaming them for algae growth and river pollution that harms wildlife.

Key Facts

  • Avara Foods and Freemans of Newent are among the UK’s largest industrial chicken producers.
  • More than 1,300 people are part of a lawsuit claiming pollution in the River Wye and River Usk.
  • The claim says pollution comes from phosphorus, nitrogen, and bacteria in farm runoff and sewage waste.
  • The pollution causes algae blooms that reduce oxygen in the rivers, harming fish and other wildlife.
  • Lawyers for Avara argue there is no clear scientific proof their farms caused the pollution.
  • The lawsuit requires claimants to show how they were personally affected and when the harm started.
  • About 24 million chickens are raised in the River Wye area, roughly a quarter of the UK’s chicken population.
  • The case is called the UK’s biggest environmental pollution claim and is ongoing in the High Court.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Canada's Carney launches a sovereign wealth fund. What is it?

Canada's Carney launches a sovereign wealth fund. What is it?

Summary

Canada has created its first government-owned investment fund called the Canada Strong Fund. The fund will invest C$25 billion in key areas like energy, infrastructure, mining, agriculture, and technology to support major development projects in the country.

Key Facts

  • The Canada Strong Fund is a sovereign wealth fund launched by Prime Minister Mark Carney.
  • It will start with C$25 billion (about $18.4 billion) to invest in various sectors.
  • Canadians with extra money can also invest directly in this fund.
  • The fund aims to support “nation-building projects” such as port upgrades and natural resource development.
  • Other countries like Norway have similar funds funded by oil revenues; Norway’s fund is worth $2.1 trillion.
  • Canada’s fund will be paid for with borrowed money since the country is currently in debt.
  • Experts warn that the fund might offer limited financial returns and could be costly for taxpayers.
  • The Canadian government will hold consultations to finalize details about the fund.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Shell to buy Canadian shale producer ARC Resources for $16.4bn

Shell to buy Canadian shale producer ARC Resources for $16.4bn

Summary

Shell has agreed to buy Canadian shale producer ARC Resources for $16.4 billion. This deal will increase Shell’s oil and gas production and add to its reserves, marking its largest purchase in ten years.

Key Facts

  • Shell will pay $13.6 billion in cash and shares and take on ARC’s $2.8 billion debt.
  • ARC Resources produces about 370,000 barrels of oil and gas per day.
  • The acquisition will increase Shell’s production growth target from 1% to 4% annually.
  • Shell’s CEO Wael Sawan said this deal makes Canada a key area for Shell’s future growth.
  • Shell sold its US shale business in Texas in 2021 but is now expanding again in North America.
  • ARC mainly produces natural gas and condensate, which are used for energy and making chemicals.
  • Shell owns or is involved in more than 30% of the world’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) capacity.
  • Shell’s shares dropped 1.8% after the announcement, and the company expects higher profits from trading due to market changes.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Can you negotiate your debt without a lump sum payment?

Can you negotiate your debt without a lump sum payment?

Summary

You can negotiate credit card or other high-interest debt without having a large lump sum of money to pay at once. Many creditors are open to payment plans or programs that lower payments over time instead of demanding a single full payment.

Key Facts

  • Many Americans face high credit card rates above 21% and rising living costs.
  • Creditors often prefer lump-sum payments but may accept payment plans or smaller, regular payments.
  • Payment plan settlements let you pay a reduced amount over time instead of a large one-time payment.
  • Debt management plans through credit counseling can lower interest rates and combine payments but usually do not reduce the total owed.
  • Hardship programs may temporarily reduce payments or interest rates for those with financial difficulties.
  • Creditors consider income, debt age, and payment history before accepting alternative settlements.
  • Working with a professional debt relief service can help if creditors refuse to negotiate or if you have multiple debts.
  • Debt relief companies may pool monthly payments over time before negotiating a settlement without a lump sum.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Greggs removes cabinets in shoplifting hotspots

Greggs removes cabinets in shoplifting hotspots

Summary

Greggs, a bakery chain in the UK, is removing open display cabinets in some London stores where shoplifting is common. They are testing secure counters and new software to better report thefts to police while assessing the impact on customers.

Key Facts

  • Greggs operates around 2,700 shops across the UK.
  • The trials are in London areas like Croydon, Peckham, Whitechapel, and Upton Park, plus Birmingham and Nottinghamshire.
  • Shoplifting offences in England and Wales increased by about 20% last year, exceeding half a million cases.
  • The UK government plans to add a new crime for assaulting retail workers and increase police presence.
  • Greggs is sharing incident data with local police using new software to speed up responses.
  • Some competitors, like Pret a Manger and Costa, are hiring security staff to prevent repeat thefts.
  • The changes at Greggs are targeted, temporary, and aim to balance reducing theft with customer experience.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

Canada Announces New Sovereign Wealth Fund

Canada Announces New Sovereign Wealth Fund

Summary

Canada announced the creation of its first national sovereign wealth fund called the Canada Strong Fund, starting with $25 billion from the federal government. Prime Minister Mark Carney said the fund will invest in major Canadian projects to boost the economy and reduce the country’s dependence on the United States. The fund will also allow Canadians to invest directly and benefit from its returns.

Key Facts

  • Canada is starting its first national sovereign wealth fund called the Canada Strong Fund.
  • The fund will begin with $25 billion Canadian dollars from the federal government.
  • It will invest in energy, infrastructure, critical minerals, agriculture, and technology projects in Canada.
  • The fund aims to support long-term economic growth and make Canada less dependent on the U.S.
  • Canadians will be able to invest directly in the fund and share in its financial returns.
  • The announcement comes amid trade tensions and tariff increases from the United States under President Trump.
  • The fund’s returns will be reinvested to grow its size and support more projects over time.
  • The approach is inspired by successful sovereign wealth funds like Saudi Arabia’s, which invest in national industries for future benefits.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

California billionaire tax secures enough signatures to make ballot

California billionaire tax secures enough signatures to make ballot

Summary

A proposal to tax California billionaires has collected enough signatures to appear on the November ballot. The measure would charge a one-time 5% tax on people with a net worth of $1 billion or more to fund healthcare, education, and food assistance programs in California.

Key Facts

  • The proposal is backed by SEIU-UHW, a union representing over 120,000 healthcare workers in California.
  • More than 1.5 million signatures were collected, surpassing the 875,000 needed for the ballot.
  • The tax would be a one-time 5% charge on billionaires with at least $1 billion in net worth.
  • It is expected to raise about $100 billion over five years.
  • The money would help prevent hospital and clinic closures and support K-14 education and food aid programs.
  • California has about 200 billionaires with a combined wealth of $2 trillion.
  • Opponents, including Governor Gavin Newsom and billionaire Bill Ackman, say the tax could hurt the economy and cause billionaires to leave the state.
  • Supporters argue the tax is fairer because billionaires currently pay a lower tax rate compared to middle-class Californians.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.

California billionaire tax has enough signatures for ballot, backers say

California billionaire tax has enough signatures for ballot, backers say

Summary

Supporters of a proposed tax on billionaires in California say they have collected enough voter signatures to put the measure on the November ballot. The goal of the tax is to make wealthier residents pay more to support public services.

Key Facts

  • Advocates claim 1.6 million signatures were submitted for the Billionaire Tax Act.
  • California law requires at least 874,641 registered voter signatures to qualify a measure for the ballot.
  • The proposed tax targets billionaires, aiming to increase their contributions.
  • The measure will appear on the November election ballot if approved.
  • The signatures ensure the tax proposal will be decided by California voters.
  • The tax intends to raise funds for state programs, though details are not specified in the article.
Read the Original

Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original article.